Vale Marc Besen AC, philanthropist and great supporter of arts and culture.

Monash Art, Design and Architecture (MADA) is deeply saddened to learn of the death of Dr Marc Besen AC.

Dr Besen’s generosity has enabled numerous impactful initiatives. Our innovative research series with the Monash Design Health Collab would not have been possible without Dr Besen’s sense of innovation, commitment and generosity. The Eva and Marc Besen International Research Chair in Design, which established Professor Mark Armstrong’s tenure, achieved significant progress in the development of the bionic ear and patents for the bionic eye implant. Associate Professor Leah Heiss, the incumbent chair, is honoured and proud to continue this vital research.

We would like to acknowledge the incredible legacy the Besen’s have made to MADA and we deeply appreciate the Besen family’s far-sighted commitment to the public good.