Aspiring dancers and marine scientists, and a new generation
of Robert Burns Fellows, will benefit from the generosity of
two university landlords.
The University of Otago is considering how to use a bequest
from Leo and Phoebe Fisher to support education in music,
dance and the marine environment.
Former Huntsman Steakhouse owner Mr Fisher died in November
2008, and Mrs Fisher died last September.
They gave the university their Portobello Rd home, a storage
building in Harrow St and the UniPrint building on Albany St.
A plaque acknowledging the Fishers' bequest was unveiled at
UniPrint on Tuesday.
University development and alumni relations director
Associate Prof David Gerrard said the Harrow St building
would likely continue to be used for storage and the Albany
St bequest meant UniPrint would be able to operate rent free.
That might free up university money to support study in
music, dance and the marine environment.
Mr Fisher was a dedicated supporter of marine science, the
sea and fishing, and Mrs Fisher was a keen dancer, Prof
Gerrard said.
The Fishers' Portobello Rd home, which has a rateable value
of $460,000, would be sold to support the Robert Burns
Fellowship, the university's year-long literary residency.
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