John Yu facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Yu
AC FRACP FRSN
|
|
|---|---|
| Born |
余森美
12 December 1934 Nanking, China
|
| Nationality | Australian |
| Education | University of Sydney |
| Medical career | |
| Field | Paediatrics |
| Institutions | Royal Alexandra Hospital for Children |
John Samuel Yu (Chinese: 余森美; pinyin: Yú Sēnměi; born 12 December 1934) is an Australian doctor who specializes in children's health. He was the leader (CEO) of the Royal Alexandra Hospital for Children for many years, from 1979 to 1997. In 1996, he was honored as the Australian of the Year.
Contents
Early Life and Education
John Yu was born in Nanjing (formerly Nanking), China. He moved to Australia and went to Fort Street High School in Sydney. Later, he studied at the University of Sydney.
In 1961, John Yu started working at the Royal Alexandra Hospital for Children. This hospital is now known as the New Children's Hospital. He loved helping children. Over time, he became the Head of Medicine. In 1979, he was chosen to be the Chief Executive of the hospital.
Career and Achievements
As the chief executive, John Yu oversaw a big move for the Royal Alexandra Hospital for Children. In 1995, the hospital moved from Camperdown to Westmead in western Sydney. Today, it is also known as The Children's Hospital at Westmead.
From 2000 to 2005, he also served as the chancellor of the University of New South Wales. This is a very important leadership role at a university.
Awards and Recognition
John Yu has received many important awards for his work.
- In 1989, he was made a Member of the Order of Australia.
- He was named Australian of the Year in 1996. This award recognizes Australians who have made a big difference.
- In 2001, he was promoted to Companion of the Order of Australia. This is one of Australia's highest honors.
- In 2019, he became a Fellow of the Royal Society of New South Wales.
Protecting Children
John Yu strongly believed in keeping children safe. As the CEO of the Royal Alexandra Hospital for Children, he supported a new law. This law aimed to protect children from harm. It was passed in 2001. The law made it illegal to hit children in certain ways. It focused on preventing serious injuries to children.
Supporting Indigenous Voices
In 2023, John Yu joined other respected Australians. He signed an open letter to support the Yes vote. This vote was for the Indigenous Voice referendum. It was about giving Indigenous Australians a greater say in matters that affect them.
