Townsville graduation 'cap'tivates
CQUniversity’s newest graduates took centre stage at the Townsville graduation ceremony on Tuesday, 30 April.
From passionate teachers and nurses to skilled engineers and paramedics, the diverse cohort represented a spectrum of industries central to the Townsville region.
Associate Vice President Far North Queensland Region, Jodie Duignan-George expressed her pride in the new graduates.
“We recognised more than 100 students who graduated with a variety of degrees that really coincide with some of our top programs,” Ms Duignan-George said.
“We are all so happy to celebrate these graduates remarkable achievements.”
The ceremony was attended by CQUniversity Chancellor Graeme Innes AM and Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Nick Klomp who addressed a supportive crowd of university executives, staff and members of the community, alongside the graduates’ families, friends, and peers.
The large attendance was a testament to individual accomplishments but also a reflection on the impact of CQUniversity's mission to empower communities.
The University’s commitment to research was also demonstrated with three doctoral graduates earning their PhDs at the ceremony.
CQUniversity’s Vice-President, Research Professor Grant Stanley recognised business leader Dr Mick Reilly OAM, environmental scientist Dr Jessie Grey and forensic psychologist Dr Rebecca Wilcoxson.
A highlight of the ceremony was the guest address, given by Mr David Donohue, Managing Director of the Queensland Corporate Communication Network, who offered words of inspiration and insight as the graduates’ step into the next phase of their lives.
“You’re here and you made it. I congratulate each and every one of you for getting through,” Mr Donohue said.
“The fear you felt at the start didn’t stop you. It helped to motivate you.
"You have survived, you have thrived and most of all you have proven you can do it. Today you get the payoff from all of that effort.”
With more than 40 nursing graduates in attendance, from both Diploma of Nursing and Bachelor of Nursing, healthcare professionals were inspired by graduate nurse Lauren Baguley who delivered the student address.
Ms Baguley shared her aspiration to provide much-needed support to the region's ageing population.
“Now that I have graduated, I'm working in the intensive care unit and that's really fostered my excitement for critical care (and) I am interested in future studies in gerontology,” Ms Baguley said.
“I was honoured to have been chosen to give the graduate address today and I really hope I can inspire people to continue with their hopes and dreams.”
