University scholarship honours former Kordia CEO Scott Bartlett

ASB, Kordia and the University of Waikato have announced a new scholarship to provide financial support to outstanding students in their final year of study in a conjoint degree, or a degree with a double major, in business management and the sciences.

The new Scott Bartlett Memorial Scholarship was established in memory of Scott, an electronic commerce graduate, respected business leader, and former member of the University's Council and ASB's board. Scott died in late 2020 at the age of 40 after a battle with cancer.

Scott was group CEO of technology provider Kordia. He stepped into the top role in 2016, joining the company in 2012. He played a pivotal role in the growth of the business into new areas, such as cybersecurity and cloud. He was widely regarded as one of the most talented young business people in New Zealand.

"I'm proud to support Scott's memorial scholarship on behalf of ASB. Scott was a good friend and colleague," says ASB chief executive and University of Waikato Distinguished Alumna, Vittoria Shortt.

"ASB chair Dame Therese Walsh and I want to acknowledge the influence Scott brought to New Zealand. A scholarship dedicated to Scott is a wonderful way to remember his legacy. In doing so, we can support future business leaders."

Kordia Group CEO Shaun Rendell worked alongside Scott for many years as CFO and was appointed acting CEO at Kordia when Scott was ill.

"Kordia has long supported scholarships at the University of Waikato, and we're delighted to co-fund this memorial scholarship in Scott's name," he says.

"Part of what made Scott a brilliant business leader was his passion for developing talent and helping people succeed. He would be pleased to know that his legacy will support the next generation of leaders entering the New Zealand business scene through the scholarship."

The scholarship will be awarded to three students each year, with applications being taken from 2022 and the first scholarship being awarded in 2023. Each scholarship is worth $4,000 for students completing the final year of either a conjoint degree or a degree with a double major. Majors must be from the Waikato Management School and one or more of the Schools of Science, Mathematical and Computer Sciences, or Engineering.

"Scott's commitment and dedication to the University of Waikato have made a lasting impact," says the university's vice-chancellor, Professor Neil Quigley.

"Scott made many exemplary contributions during his career and to the direction of the University during his time on Council. We are very pleased, alongside ASB and Kordia, to honour his memory through this scholarship and to financially assist outstanding students who will no doubt go on to have great careers as Scott did."