CQUniversity Gladstone graduates celebrate milestone achievements
More than 100 CQUniversity students will celebrate the completion of their studies at today’s Gladstone Graduation Ceremony, marking the largest cohort to ever graduate at a Gladstone event.
The milestone occasion brings together graduates, their families, lecturers and the wider University community to recognise years of commitment and hard work.
A total of 103 students are graduating, including 13 Vocational Education and Training (VET) graduates, 89 Higher Education graduates, and one PhD graduate.
Among them, 13 students will receive a Cultural Sash, acknowledging their cultural identity and honouring the significance of their educational journey.
CQUniversity Associate Vice-President for the Gladstone Region Mr Rod Ainsworth said graduation is a highlight of the University calendar.
“Today is a celebration of persistence, passion and possibility,” Mr Ainsworth said.
“Our graduates have balanced study, work, placements, family and countless life commitments. Today’s ceremony acknowledges the dedication behind each of their achievements.”
Graduates from a wide range of disciplines – including education, engineering, nursing, business, social work and trades – will take part in today’s ceremony at CQUniversity Gladstone Marina Campus.
Bachelor of Laws graduate Hayleigh Warry said crossing the stage today marks a deeply meaningful milestone.
“I’m really excited to be here today. Finishing my degree feels like closing one chapter and stepping confidently into the next,” she said.
“Studying while raising three children, including two with severe disabilities, came with plenty of ups and downs. To be graduating today is monumental for me and my family.”
Hayleigh said CQUniversity’s flexibility made her study journey possible.
“My degree was fully online, and that flexibility meant I could work around my kids’ schedules. It allowed me to keep moving forward, even on the really tough days.”
She said her biggest motivation was showing her children what determination looks like.
“The thing that got me through was wanting to show my kids that they can achieve whatever they set their minds to.”
Hayleigh, a Gladstone local, is already working as a paralegal and will move into a law graduate role before progressing to solicitor.
Mr Ainsworth said it was inspiring to see Gladstone’s newest cohort cross the stage, with nursing and education among the standout study areas.
“Seeing such strong numbers in these programs brings a real sense of pride to our lecturers and teachers, who have supported students throughout their learning journey. Watching their hard work pay off is incredibly rewarding.
“Learning doesn’t stop once students turn their tassel – it’s a lifelong journey, and we hope to welcome many of them back to CQUniversity in the future.”
