Malcolm DH Smith Memorial Scholarship
The Malcolm DH Smith Memorial Scholarship was launched in 2010 in tribute to Professor Smith, a leading international figure in Asian legal studies and the Founding Director of the Asian Law Centre at the University of Melbourne. This scholarship was initiated by members of the Asian Law Centre, with the support of Dr Rosalynd Smith, widow of Professor Smith.
The scholarship is designed to assist first-year Melbourne JD students who have completed an undergraduate law degree or a degree majoring in Asian studies at a tertiary institution in Australia or Asia.
Professor Smith [LLB (Hons) 1968, LLM 1972] is remembered for his exceptional contribution to Asian legal studies. He joined the Law School in 1987 as Foundation Professor of Asian Law, and was Associate Dean of the Faculty of Law in 1990-91 and 1997-99. In 2004 he was appointed a full-time professor of law at Chuo University in Tokyo, the first Australian to hold such a position.
Melbourne Law School expresses sincere appreciation to Dr Rosalynd Smith, and the many friends and colleagues of Professor Smith who have generously donated to the scholarship.
Impact Statement of 2017 Scholarship Recipient, Ms Didi Hu
My undergraduate degree is in Chinese law. During my four years of studies, I grabbed every opportunity to put the knowledge I have learnt into practice, by clerking at the trial court in my home town, and by interning at Beijing-based law firms. I also contributed articles on China’s legal system to English law journals in an effort to facilitate the world’s understanding of China’s legal culture and development. I felt privileged witnessing, and being part of, China’s modernisation of its rule of law, and its interaction with the world. However, I also sensed the urgent need for legal elites who can represent China on the international platform, in making China’s position on international affairs known to the world, suggesting solutions meeting China's national interests and complying with its international obligations, as well as representing China’s rights before international tribunals.
I believe that my JD studies will equip me with the ability to better understand and advise how the law and society can fertilise the development of each other, and Melbourne Law School’s open and active academic atmosphere enables me to communicate with the brightest minds dedicated to defining and defending the rule of law in society. Your generosity through this Scholarship reaffirms my belief that the legal academia and practice value thorough, informed and honest communication between China and the world, and your kind support further empowers me to facilitate such communication.
Once again, thank you for your vote of confidence and deed of encouragement. Your kindness gives me the emotional as well as financial support to materialise my ambitions.
Donations
We are extremely grateful for the recent donation from alumnus Jim Craig and his wife Claudia Craig. Both Claudia and Jim were students of Professor Smith in the Melbourne Law School’s Masters of Law programme. Jim completed his Masters in 1992 and went on to work as a lawyer in Japan. Claudia pursued her post-graduate law studies in Japan under Professor Smith’s mentorship and also worked in a Tokyo law office. They are both delighted to make a contribution to the Malcolm DH Smith Memorial Scholarship fund in recognition of the contribution made by Professor Smith to their careers, and to enable others to benefit from similar experiences.
Donations to the Malcolm DH Smith Memorial Scholarship fund would be gratefully received at any time. Gifts over $2 are tax-deductible.