Dr Mark Roberts’ (OM 1994) appointment as Chair of the Witherby Tower Society Committee signals an exciting era for Melbourne Grammar School’s philanthropic community; one that is forward thinking, deeply personal and driven by values that transcend the classroom.
The son of Polish immigrants who came to Australia after WWII in search of a better life, their sacrifice and hard work was an ever-present north star in Mark’s life.
“Education was and is everything in my family,” he says, “not just as a way to find success, but as a way to contribute meaningfully to society.”
Now a senior executive in the corporate sector, Mark spent the early part of his career in public policy, working closely with two Australian Prime Ministers.
“What I’ve learned over my career is that prediction is hard,” he muses.
Mark’s passion for service has been shaped by years in government, where navigating complexity required humility, clarity, and courage.
“One of the best ways to lead is to serve others. I’ve embraced that ethos throughout my career, whether in politics, volunteering, or philanthropy.”
Reflecting on the role of education in both his life and that of his daughter, who is studying at Lauriston Girls School and where Mark also serves as a Foundation Board member, Mark felt he owed Melbourne Grammar School a debt that he is now in a position to repay.
“The School helped me become the person I am today,” he says. “Its emphasis on character and responsibility shaped how I try to live: giving back, paying it forward, and investing in others.”
But Mark’s decision to return to the School in his new capacity goes beyond his own personal and professional experience.
“I’ve been asked a few times by friends and fellow Old Melburnians why I got involved in the Witherby Tower Society, often with a bit of incredulousness, as though bequests aren’t something younger Old Melburnians should be thinking about,” he says.
His answer came during a recent event where he heard from Quentin Berto (OM 2024), a scholarship recipient who had just completed Year 12.
“Quentin said: ‘I hope that one day I will be a role model for other young people to believe in themselves and follow their dreams… Thinking back to why I made the decision to go to boarding school at Melbourne Grammar School, it was to provide opportunities for my siblings.’”
For Mark, Quentin’s words affirmed everything the Witherby Tower Society stands for. “Quentin’s scholarship didn’t just benefit him – it opened a pathway for those behind him. That’s the power of a bequest. It’s not just about legacy; it’s about possibility.”
Mark hopes more Old Melburnians will see a gift in their Will as a way to connect their own successes and life journey with the future of others. “Being part of the Witherby Tower Society is as much about shepherding the future of Melbourne Grammar School as it is about reflecting the values and accomplishments we hold dear.”
“Our donor community should be proud because it’s their support that allows the School to be more accessible and sustainable, even beyond their lifetime.”
