The Sophia Michelle McMillan Crestani Memorial Scholarship

Established in 2020 in memory of Sophia Michelle McMillan Crestani, a 2nd year Bachelor of Science student studying mathematics and statistics. Sophia passed away in tragic circumstances at a student party in North Dunedin on 6 October 2019. Sophia, the youngest of 3 children and a twin, grew up in Wellington. She demonstrated her innate ability in mathematics at an early age, winning the St Benedict's School Mathematics cup and an academic scholarship to Queen Margaret College. Sophia was a caring and enthusiastic spirit with a creative flair, having her Year 13 wearable art work “The Fallen” displayed at the National War Memorial, Hall of Memories as part of the centennial commemoration of the Passchendaele campaign. Sophia was a people person with an engaging and sparkly personality who could light up any space. She was also a sporty young woman, competing in a number of sports including netball, dragon boating and gymnastics. Through her love of working with children she gave back to the community as a gymnastics coach and recreation co-ordinator. Sophia would want other young women to have the educational and career opportunities that she will not.