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Tireless volunteer to become Senior Fellow
A former deputy principal who is now involved in several organisations that encourage female students to pursue their academic goals is about to become an Honorary Senior Fellow of the University of the Sunshine Coast.
Beverley Hinz, 62, of Mooloolah Valley will receive the prestigious honorary award at the University’s Graduation Ceremony on Friday 30 September.
Ms Hinz has been a member of Graduate Women Queensland Sunshine Coast branch since 1994, and forged strong links with USC during her time as branch president from 2007 to 2010.
Her other roles within the branch have included chairing the Bursary Selection Committee, which awards bursaries to female undergraduate students at the University each year.
In 2009, Ms Hinz was inducted as an honorary member of USC’s Chapter of the Golden Key Honour Society.
Following this, she initiated a University mentoring program for female postgraduate students at USC, and became a supporter of the STEMM (Supporting Teenagers with Education, Mothering and Mentoring) program based at Burnside State High School.
Ms Hinz said her motivation to help others was driven by her own educational experiences.
“Education was valued in my family and I was the first in my family to do post secondary school studies,” she said. “So I’ve always had a desire to see other women have the same opportunities as I had.”
“In my last role as a deputy principal, I recall a Year 12 girl who became pregnant. With the support of her mother, teachers and administration, she was able to have the baby and return to complete the year.
“It is unfortunate that many girls feel compelled to drop out of school, often because of the reactions of others, but also because it is not easy being pregnant and a teenager.”
Ms Hinz also volunteers as a management committee member of the Maleny Hinterland Information Centre.
USC Vice-Chancellor Professor Greg Hill said Ms Hinz was a tireless volunteer who deserved recognition.
“Beverley should be honoured for her distinguished and sustained contribution to community liaison and commitment to regional voluntary organisations,” he said.
“She is an enthusiastic supporter of the Graduate Women of Queensland Bursary Committee which has awarded 70 bursaries worth $55,000 since its inception.”
— Michelle Widdicombe