Student community contributions recognised

Springfield students Maurice Caudery and Julie Griffin receive the Springfield Phoenix Award Bursary.

A little recognition can go a long way towards giving students the boost they need to continue on with an outstanding job and two USQ Springfield campus students have recently been given just such a pat on the back.

Faculty of Education students Julie Griffin and Maurice Caudery have become the first recipients of the Springfield Phoenix Award Bursary valued at $5000, to be split between them.

The bursary was awarded in recognition of their community and campus involvement at an end of year celebration last week (30 November).

Both students are studying the Bachelor of Education (Primary) program with Ms Griffin beginning her honours program in 2012.

Springfield Director Doug Fraser said the bursary is a non-competitive award that recognises a student’s involvement on campus and in the community.

'The award recognises the students strong participation in social, cultural and sporting events at USQ and in the community, including undertaking voluntary work and contributing their time as a member of committees and organisations,' Mr Fraser said.

'The recipients must have demonstrated strong leadership skills have a keen interest in their chosen course and a demonstrated commitment to their career goals.'

'Ms Griffin and Mr Caudery are fitting recipients of the award as they have proven to be an invaluable part of our university and local community,' he said.

'Both students have been involved with volunteering for university events and outside organisations.

'Last year Julie founded a USQ Parents Networking Club to provide support for other student/parents who are juggling university, children, work and their lives.

'She has also been the Scholastic Book Club Coordinator at the university for the past two years – all of this is additional to her study.'

'Mr Caudery has been active on the Student Representative Council and he has made himself available for numerous events for new and prospective students.

'Their enthusiasm and tireless efforts demonstrate their commitment to improving the lives of those around them and make them worthy recipients of the award.'

Ms Griffin said she was honoured to receive the Springfield Phoenix Award Bursary.

'Winning the award has been the boost I needed,' Ms Griffin said.

'Being a single parent to two young boys while studying and working means life can become monotonous and sometimes you feel you are treading water just to get through.

'Not only have others recognised my effort and commitment, but I have also been filled with a sense of achievement and feel extremely proud of myself and it has given me extra confidence in everything I do.'

Mr Caudery said he enjoyed giving back to people.

'When I began at university many people gave me time and assistance and I enjoy being able to give that help back,' he said.

'As a parent of four teenagers whose wife is also studying an education degree at the university full-time, life can become difficult financially, so this bursary will come in handy.'

Contact Details:
Jo-Ann Sparrow, USQ Media, +61 7 3470 4119 or 0438 309 096