USQ aims to reconnect with graduates through Alumni Network

The University of Southern Queensland (USQ) is looking forward to reconnecting with more than 55,000 graduates from more than 120 nationalities during the University's 40th Anniversary celebrations in 2007.

As part of the celebrations, the University has established the USQ Alumni Network and will be hosting a reunion of staff and students in August.

USQ Vice-Chancellor, Professor Bill Lovegrove, said the University's 40th Anniversary provided an ideal opportunity to reconnect with graduates and former staff.

'USQ is a relatively small university compared to many in the world and is a very friendly and supportive place to work and study.

'Given this we are really excited about reconnecting with USQ graduates and former staff members as part of our 40th Anniversary celebrations this year.'

USQ Alumni Network Manager, Samfya Smith, said members of the Network will be offered personal, professional and business development opportunities.

'One of the main aims of the Network is to enable graduates and former USQ staff the opportunity to reconnect with old friends, colleagues, lecturers and classmates for professional support and friendship.

'We will also offer graduates the opportunity to contribute to the future of USQ as a mentor, ambassador or donor.'

The free membership includes access to career development counselling and job opportunities via USQ's internet-based job board, CareerHub.

'Alumni members will also receive a generous discount on computer training and advice on postgraduate and professional development study opportunities,' Samfya said.

As part of the 40th Anniversary, the University is also organising a reunion of staff and students at the Toowoomba Campus on the 18th of August.

USQ graduate and current staff member, Michael Thompson, is organising the event and is encouraging old social groups, their friends and colleagues to attend.

'Attendees will be given an opportunity to reminisce and catch up with their friends and have a laugh at the old photos and videos,' he said.

Reunion organisers are happy to hear from people with old footage from their days at the university.

'We're very keen to get our hands on some old videos and movies from students who lived in the Residential Colleges too.'

Those who are interested in attending the reunion, lending old footage and photos or learning more about USQ Alumni can register their interest online at www.usq.edu.au/alumni or contact the reunion organisers on 4631 2622.

Media Contact: Jane Urquhart, USQ Media, +61 7 4631 2559