This inaugural scholarship has been established by the Webster family in honour of John William Cruse Webster (OW1958). It is a means-tested scholarship to be awarded every six years for entry in Year 7 to a student with an aptitude in Mathematics and a genuine interest in STEM.
John William Cruse Webster (OW1958) was a gifted student, chemical engineer and devoted family man whose connection with Wesley College formed part of a much longer Webster family tradition. John was the son of William Vernon Webster (OW1913). The extended family’s association with the College has continued for over 100 years.
John attended Wesley from 1955 to 1958, matriculating with First Class Honours in Physics and Chemistry and receiving a Commonwealth Scholarship. He represented the College in the First Tennis Team and received School Tennis Colours. John went on to excel in Chemical Engineering at the University of Melbourne, graduating with First Class Honours and completed a Master of Engineering Science. An ICIANZ scholarship subsequently took him to the United Kingdom, which commenced an international career that also included postings in Malaysia, Indonesia and PNG.
Family remained central throughout John's life. He was immensely proud of his sons, Alexander (OW1999) and Charles (OW2005), and the Webster family's connection with Wesley will continue through John's grandchildren.
Established in his memory, the John W. C. Webster Scholarship reflects John's own aptitude for science and the well-rounded education he received from attending Wesley College. The scholarship is intended to help a student with strong potential in STEM to access a Wesley education and pursue their own opportunities.
