Content
End of an era as Vice-Chancellor retires
The University of the Sunshine Coast today marked the end of an era as its founding Vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Thomas AM retired.
Professor Thomas was visited by many well-wishers throughout his final day on the job after guiding the University through its establishment and rapid growth over the past 16 years.
A community send-off for Professor Thomas was held last Friday at USC’s Innovation Centre auditorium. It was attended by 200 people, including the region’s civic, business, education and community leaders.
And hundreds of University staff gathered at the same venue on Wednesday evening this week to say farewell to Professor Thomas and pay tribute to his many achievements.
Professor Thomas said his final week at USC had been an emotional roller-coaster and he described it as a “real wrench” to let go of the University he has led since initial planning began in 1994.
USC opened as a University College in 1996 with only 524 students, two buildings and a choice of only two degrees.
Its development into a thriving University today – with more than 7,000 students, 16 buildings and more than 100 undergraduate and postgraduate study programs – is a testament to Professor Thomas’s energy, vision and leadership.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Greg Hill was recently appointed as the University’s next Vice-Chancellor and President.
— Terry Walsh