Content
Public lecture to focus on USC’s impacts
The University of the Sunshine Coast’s extensive contribution to the region’s economy, community life and preservation of the environment will be outlined in detail at a special public lecture at USC on Thursday 20 May.
Founding Vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Thomas AM will present the free lecture, entitled “University impacts on Sunshine Coast region”, at USC’s Lecture Theatre 7 from 7pm.
All members of the public are welcome and are asked to arrive by 6.30pm.
This event will be a special occasion for Professor Thomas, who will retire next month after having overseen the remarkable growth of the University since planning began in 1994.
When the University opened in 1996, it had two buildings, 524 students, and a choice of only two degrees. It now has 16 buildings and more than 7,300 students enrolled in more than 100 undergraduate and postgraduate study programs.
Professor Thomas said he would highlight USC’s progress and potential, and launch a new booklet containing information on how effective the University has been in its goal of supporting sustainable regional development.
“This will be my last opportunity to address this topic, and to emphasise the ways in which the University has addressed public expectations,” he said.
“It is clear from our short history that no other business or industry in the region can compare with the rate of development of this University.
“The impact of this University has been impressive and we acknowledge enormous support over the past 16 years from governments, businesses, community groups and individuals.”
Professor Thomas said while most of the economic, social and environmental impact data he will present will be quantitative, he will also discuss the less-easily defined community benefits that USC has brought to the Coast.
“USC has introduced, in my view, a new qualitative dimension to life on the Coast – an impact on aspirations, career prospects, attitudes and values often elusive but profoundly important.”
— Terry Walsh