Dual Rockhampton Graduation cermonies mark jewel in CQU history
More than 500 graduands have crossed the stage at two graduation ceremonies in Rockhampton on 6 December 2022, and with a turn of the tassel are now proud CQUniversity alumni.
One of the graduation ceremonies also served as a dual celebration with CQUniversity' s fourth Chancellor' Mr Graeme Innes AM also officially installed as Chancellor by the Governor of Queensland, Her Excellency' the Honourable Jeannette Young AC PSM.
CQUniversity also recognised two long-serving academic staff members Professor Bill Blayney and Professor Bobby Harreveld with Emeritus Professorships. Both Professor Blayney and Harreveld announced their retirements from the University early this year.
High-profile alumnus and international child safety and wellbeing advocate, Dr Brian Babbington was also recognised with an honorary doctorate.
Amongst the other graduates included Temil Ludwig, who was awarded his Bachelor of Education (Secondary) with Distinction, and is the first graduating student to be supported by the Emu Park Lions Club Scholarship' with his donors present in the audience.
First Nations graduate Brendan Bishop was also a recipient of the Arrow Energy Go Further Indigenous Scholarship and was awarded his Master of Business Administration.
Dr Samantha Cooms and Dr Stacey Giles were also two First Nations Research Higher Degrees students to graduate, receiving a PhD and Graduate Certificate in Research respectively.
Outgoing Chancellor John Abbott AM also gave his final address as Chancellor and congratulated and charged the graduates to continue their pursuit of learning.
"We have taught you how to think, how to analyse, how to research and how to express your understandings; use those skills to ensure valid public discord and debate.
"With your graduation today, you have reached just one point in your journey of learning. It will mean now, to keep on learning."
Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Nick Klomp reminded the graduates they would always have the support of CQUniversity, who will remain committed to their success as much from now on as when they first commenced.
"You will always have the support of CQUniversity behind you and our relationship with you is a lifetime one. Your university will always have your back, guaranteed."
The day was also especially personal for Professor Nick Klomp with his son Michael Klomp also graduating and who, in a heartwarming moment embraced his father as he crossed the stage with his interim Graduate Certificate award, on the pathway to his MBA (Leadership).
"I'm so happy to be awarded this postgraduate qualification, through a lot of hard work and great support from the MBA team,'" Mr Klomp said.
Finally, honorarily robed and charged, the new Chancellor elect gave a declaration to set the tone in his new role.
