Hundreds of CQUniversity students shine at Brisbane Graduation ceremony

By Greg Chapman

More than 400 students have achieved a significant milestone in their study journeys by crossing the stage at the CQUniversity Brisbane Graduation Ceremony.

The event, held at the Brisbane Convention and Entertainment Centre on Friday, 16 August, included five Doctoral graduates and the presentation of an Alumni Award to founder of the technology company ATech, Sarah-Jane Peterschlingmann, who was also guest speaker.

Out of attending graduates, 383 completed higher education degrees, 10 completed vocational qualifications, and of the total, six identified as First Nations'.

Chancellor Graeme Innes reminded the graduands that receiving their testamurs and graduating should be seen as a stepping-stone on a journey of lifelong learning.

Guest speaker, CQU Information Technology graduate Sarah-Jane Peterschlingmann, who was officially named Alumnus of the Year for Industry Excellence, told the gathered students that while they may stumble and fall along the way in their lives and careers - to not be discouraged.

“One thing I’ve learned is that sometimes, to achieve greatness, all you need is the determination to keep showing up,” she said. 

“You don’t always need confidence, but you must have courage.

“One thing I can guarantee is this: If you choose to pursue a meaningful life, strive to make a difference, or aim for success in your career, you will inevitably face setbacks. You will encounter moments of doubt and you will stumble and fall along the way. Don’t let these moments discourage you.”   

The graduands who received a Doctor of Philosophy were:

• Ning Guo: Soft Skills in Interpreters in the Interview Process Involving Cases of Domestic Violence in Police Interviews;
• Mr Diakite Mory: Management of Strategies for Avoiding Mining Land Use Conflicts in Developing Countries: A Case Study from the Côte d'Ivoire;
• Mrs Jennifer Mulvogue: The Machinations of Restraint Use in Residential Aged Care: A Critical Discourse Analysis;
• Mrs Tracy Trethewy: Transition Programs for Third Culture Kids (TCK) at International Schools;
• Ms Alexandra van Beek: Same Mountain, Different View: A Systemic Exploration of Mental Health Precipatory Research and Intentional Social Change.

The Graduates’ Representative Speaker was Bachelor of Bachelor of Science (Chiropractic) graduate Isabella Henry. 

Brisbane Graduation highlights