Alumni of University of Otago in America
(AUOA) is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit, nonpartisan organization that enables U.S.-based alumni to network, support each other, and contribute financially to the University of Otago. Through tax-deductible donations, we fund initiatives that align with our vision of supporting worldly, innovative, forward-thinking, caring, and compassionate individuals who question everything in pursuit of a healthier, happier, and more peaceful world.
Empowering U.S. alumni to support Otago students and research for a better world
AUOA empowers U.S.-based alumni to stay connected, support one another, and give back to Otago through impactful scholarships and research funding. Our organization supports worldly, innovative, forward-thinking, caring, and compassionate people who wish to question everything and find answers that contribute to a healthier, happier, and more peaceful world.
Scholarships
We empower students with scholarships and grants, ensuring academic access for a new generation of innovative leaders.
Research
We fund bold and innovative research, from cancer and palliative care to digitizing geological specimens for global access.
Networking
We foster a community of alumni, and can facilitate introductions, connections, exchange of ideas with Otago faculty and students
AUOA funds a range of awards, grants, and scholarships to support academic excellence, student success, and global impact
We evaluate and sponsor programs and initiatives, we foster donor support and engagement to help build the profile of, and deliver financial support for Otago University through alumni and friends in the USA.
John M. Stewart Donation
A transformative $3.8 million legacy gift from Dr John M. Stewart reflects his dedication to learning and research. The donation, the largest in AUOA’s history, funds scholarships for Health Sciences students and creates lasting opportunities at Otago.
>$5M
Remitted
in scholarships, research grants, and awards
17+
Years
of facilitating introductions, connections, and exchange of ideas.
Sir Murray Brennan Fund
Established with support from Sir Murray Brennan and fellow donors, the fund reflects a shared commitment to education and leadership. The scholarships foster excellence in rowing and support aspiring medical students at Otago.
Advancing University of Otago Research Initiatives
AUOA is committed to advancing world-class research and university initiatives. Your support helps fund a variety of projects, from preserving historical scientific collections to groundbreaking medical research.
This work is crucial for supporting new discoveries, unlocking collaborations, and helping to provide new therapies and understandings that benefit people around the globe.
Geology Department Digitization Project
Unlocking global scientific research and collaboration.
HDGC Research & Endowment Fund
Pioneering research on Hereditary Diffuse Gastric Cancer.
MDMA for End-of-Life Palliative Care
Investigating psychedelic therapy for terminally ill patients.
Needle-Free Vaccines
Exploring transdermal patches as an alternative to injections.
News from AOUA and Otago Alumni
Alumni making headlines, AUOA updates, and stories worth sharing – curated from across our community.
Otago a stepping stone in Alumna’s journey to Harvard
Ode to a not-so-straight academic path
Fulbright NZ Science & Innovation Award; scheduled to spend 12 months in the US from October 2025
