These are the sentiments of Gae Griffiths ONZM, a former headmistress of Epsom Girls' Grammar, a former University Council member, and a founding member of the University's Legacy Society, which was established to honour those who have made a bequest to the University. 
 

She says that being head of a secondary school was a little like being a parent - nurturing, encouraging and watching adolescents blossom into mature, talented young adults. Being on the Council was like being a god-parent, "where you keep an eye on things from a distance, offering encouragement and advice when it seems appropriate". 
 

"It is fulfilling for me, especially knowing how essential it is, to commit to supporting the on-going excellence of future generations and encouraging the highest levels of endeavour in education and research. It is where my heart has been throughout my working and community life," she said. 
 

The Legacy Society was launched in 2009 and includes among its founding members the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Stuart McCutcheon, and his wife, Deborah. 
 

In September 2010 a Legacy Society morning tea was held at the Hyatt Regency's Top of the Town, a venue that offers spectacular views over the harbour and Auckland City. 

Guests enjoyed a performance of the first movement of the Trio opus 87 by Beethoven from talented young musicians Natasha Port, Finn Schofield and Thomas Hutchinson, who make up a woodwind trio. Clarinettist Finn Schofield told guests about his dream to go to France to continue his performance studies. He said that experiences that are important in helping musicians to grow can become a reality with support through a scholarship.  
 

"This is one of the most incredible gifts anyone can possibly receive: the means to pursue their passion, and for this I, on behalf of all scholarship recipients, thank you from the bottom of my heart."
 

Master of ceremonies Professor Robert Constable said that he and others in the room were helped through their own university studies by a scholarship. "Everyone benefits from the research that bequests help to pay for. Such gifts are vital to the health and well being of our University."