From Vice-Chancellor Professor Geraldine Mackenzie

As mentioned in my previous newsletter message, our University now has a new abbreviation and logo. We have spent a lot of time reflecting on our commitment to sharing knowledge and creating real, positive change for both people and our planet. This thinking has inspired our University to develop a more confident and ambitious voice in Australia and around the world. Our new abbreviation – UniSQ – aims to increase awareness of our University, and our new logo has greater meaning and connection to the beautiful country of Southern Queensland, inspired by the iconic Bunya Pine which represents growth, strength, and journeys. The story of our previous phoenix logo has served our institution for many years and is an important part of our history, and although while we have entered a new era, this symbol is not lost. The significance of our previous branding and how instrumental it has been for so many of you during your study journeys, and the phoenix rising from the ashes has served our institution for many years and is an important part of who we are. This symbol remains part of our institutional journey, and the University's Coat of Arms, which features the phoenix, motto and full name of the University, will remain on our graduation testamurs.

In early July, the University of Southern Queensland celebrated the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through a series of NAIDOC week events. This included the launch of our latest exhibition in the B Block Gallery at the Toowoomba Campus – the Southern Queensland Landscapes First Nations Art Competition.  This competition has the theme of ‘Heal Country’ and aims to allow First Nations artists from the 28 Nations in our area to share their art with others, and be recognised for their incredible talent.  The exhibition will be on display until 2 September, with the Gallery open to the public from 10am – 3 pm Tuesday – Friday.

This year, our alumni team launched the UniSQ Alumni Book Club.  The last two books for the year were written by UniSQ alumni.  The Man in the Water is a mystery book written by alumnus and current UniSQ staff member, David Burton.  Scales of Empire is a science fiction/fantasy book written by alumnus Kylie Chan.  David’s book will be discussed with him via webinar on 25 August from 7 – 8 pm and Kylie’s book will be discussed with her via webinar on October 27 from 7 – 8 pm.  To hear the interviews with each author and to register for the webinars, go to our alumni website.

August is always a very busy and exciting time at the University with our Open Days.  We hope to see many of you at one of our upcoming Open Days which you can register for using the event links at the bottom of this newsletter. 

Kind regards
Geraldine