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The University of Notre Dame Australia joins with family, friends and communities in mourning the passing of Aunty Elsie Heiss, a respected Wiradjuri Elder, Catholic leader and longstanding advocate for the Aboriginal community.
A woman of deep faith, Aunty Elsie was the former Chair of the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council and co-founder of The Reconciliation Church.
Notre Dame awarded Aunty Elsie an Honorary Doctor of Arts in 2010 in recognition of her distinguished service and contributions. Her impact was also recognised through the Aunty Elsie Indigenous Support Scholarships.
The scholarships not only provided financial support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander undergraduate students, they also inspired recipients through Aunty Elsie’s example of courage, generosity and perseverance.
Professor Renée Köhler-Ryan, Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic, said Aunty Elsie would be remembered for her lifelong commitment to faith, reconciliation and service to community.
“Aunty Elsie was a woman of extraordinary wisdom and compassion who worked tirelessly to build understanding and respect between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities,” she said.
“Through her leadership and advocacy she created opportunities for Aboriginal people to be heard, respected and supported within the Church and the wider community.
“Notre Dame was honoured to recognise Aunty Elsie with an Honorary Doctorate and through the scholarship that carried her name. Her legacy lives on through the many students she encouraged to realise their potential.”
Aunty Elsie participated in the official smoking ceremony when St Pope John Paul II visited Australia in 1995 and welcomed Pope Benedict XVI at the 2008 World Youth Day in Sydney.
Notre Dame gives thanks for the life and legacy of Aunty Elsie and extends its condolences to all who knew and loved her.
Media Contact: media@nd.edu.au