University congratulates award winners

A USQ Lecturer and an Engineering student have joined the line up of worthy Australia Day Award recipients.

Associate Lecture in Mathematics, Mr John Murray, was awarded a Special Commendation Certificate of Thanks Award for his work at the USQ Wide Bay Campus over the past five years.

USQ Administrative Assistant, Margaret Mason, said the students nominated Mr Murray for his selfless and personal contribution to students, particularly those taking the Tertiary Preparation Program (TPP).

"John tutors students who have sometimes endured an upbringing where they lack key people in their lives to reinforce self-belief.  John helps people believe that they can do anything they set their mind to, and he especially encourages women to believe that they are capable of entering traditionally male dominated fields in Science and Mathematics", Mrs Mason said.

"In a world where time is one of our most precious commodities, John is one of those rare people who willingly and consistently gives his time to any student requiring his assistance, whether he is funded to teach for that time, or not", she said.

Also named amongst the award winners was third year engineering student, Luke Boulos, who received the William Groom Centenary of Toowoomba Scholarship.

The $5000 scholarship was established in 2004, and is awarded to students aged between 18 and 24 who are studying at USQ or TAFE.

The University congratulates Mr Murray and Mr Boulos on their achievements. 

Media Contact: Connie-Louise Alexander +61 7 4631 1628