Three degrees of celebration
A Mackay family has celebrated a remarkable milestone this week as three of its members, spanning two generations, graduated at the CQUniversity Graduation Ceremony.
Mother, Suzanne Francisco, shared the graduation celebrations with her daughter Natasha Otto and son Reece Kinnersly.
"I am extremely proud of my children and their dedication to their studies,” she said.
“It's a rare and special moment for our family to witness us graduating together, underscoring the importance of education and perseverance."
Graduating with a Doctor of Education (EdD), Dr Francisco’s aptitude for academia has proven to be a source of inspiration to her children, holding an array of CQUniversity undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications.
As a CQU alumnus, Dr Francisco previously graduated from a Bachelor of Learning Management (Primary) with Distinction in 2003 and a Master of Learning Management (Special Education) in 2008.
Following a similar path into the education profession, Natasha graduated with a Masters of Education (Secondary) and a Diploma of Digital media. She also previously completed a Bachelor of Digital Media.
Further proving the family’s dedication to academic excellence and lifelong learning, Reece also completed a postgraduate qualification, graduating with his Masters of Engineering Management.
In 2010, the Chartered Engineer completed his Bachelor of Engineering (Co op) Mechanical with First Class Honours and a Diploma of Professional Practice.
Dr Francisco emphasised their family’s beliefs on the importance of education in shaping the community.
“Both Reece and I are passionate about educating the next generation. In our spare time we have worked as sessional academics at the CQU Ooralea campus," Dr Francisco said.
“We believe in the power of education to transform lives and uplift communities.”
Dr Francisco added that her youngest son, Alexander was interested in continuing the family legacy. The current Year 11 student is interested in studying psychology after he graduates high school next year.
