Arts Centre Melbourne Supporter Betty Amsden Inducted into Victorian Women's Honour Roll

Arts Centre Melbourne Chief Executive Judith Isherwood tonight paid tribute to Miss Betty Amsden OAM, one of Melbourne's most treasured philanthropists and one of Arts Centre Melbourne's greatest supporters, who was inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll of Women by the Hon Mary Wooldridge, Minister for Community Services, and the Hon Heidi Victoria, Minister for Women's Affairs, in the presence of Premier Denis Napthine this evening.

The Victorian Honour Roll of Women recognises and celebrates women who have made an extraordinary contribution to Victoria.

Miss Amsden has long held a passion for the engagement of future generations in the arts. A supporter of Arts Centre Melbourne since it opened and currently a Governor of the Arts Centre Melbourne Foundation, Betty established The Betty Amsden Arts Education Endowment for Children at Arts Centre Melbourne in 2009 with an extraordinary pledge of $5 million, a new benchmark for philanthropic support in the arts.

In addition to this, Betty has donated more than $600,000 to support artists-in-schools programs, children's performing arts festivals, and music therapy for disabled children.

Last week, Miss Amsden increased the value and scope of The Betty Amsden Scholarship for Leadership in Arts Management. Established four years ago to develop the next generation of arts leaders and formerly known as The Betty Amsden Development Grant, this scholarship offers one full-time staff member the opportunity to enhance their skill set and broaden their experience. With up to $15,000 on offer, the scholarship comprises a study/travel grant, financial support towards Diplomas of Management and Project Management, and mentoring support throughout.

"Betty Amsden is an exceptional human being and it is absolutely fitting that she be honoured in this way and formally become part of this alumni of remarkable Victorian women," said Arts Centre Melbourne Chief Executive Judith Isherwood. "Betty has an incredible life-force and actively shares her passion for and advocacy of so many aspects of community life. She sees beyond the obvious and makes incredibly astute investments in thousands of young lives each year and we are so proud and pleased that she is part of the Arts Centre Melbourne family. Congratulations Betty!"

Arts Centre Melbourne is the flagship of the performing arts in Victoria, and the focal point of Melbourne's cultural precinct. For more information visit artscentremelbourne.com.au or phone 1300 182 18. Become a fan of Arts Centre Melbourne on Facebook or follow @artscentremelb on Twitter.

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