CQU Emerald hosted its annual STEPS Completion Ceremony recently (Oct 22).

Fifteen students graduated from the bridging program, celebrating their success with family, friends and CQU staff during a dinner held at the campus and catered for by the Emerald Agricultural College.

Stephanie Garoni, Emerald STEPS Coordinator, said the evening was a time to honour the achievements of those students who took up the challenge of continuing along the path of life-long learning.

“Not only have these students gained access to university, they have developed the confidence to move on to more rewarding careers,” she said.

Emerald Councillor Paul Bell and Associate Professor John Rolfe presented the graduates with their completion certificates while keynote speaker for the evening, Dr Jeanne McConachie (Director DTLS) congratulated the students on their achievements and encouraged them to further their studies with the University.

STEPS graduate Steven Curtis reflected on his year as a STEPS student who has had to travel from Middlemount twice a week to complete the program. Steven shared the challenge of this commitment and the self satisfaction of completing the program.

STEPS is a 26-week part-time preparatory program developed by the University to provide a much needed pathway to higher education for mature-age students.

Enrolments are currently being accepted for 2005. Please contact CQU Emerald for details on 49828 888.

Photo: CQU Emerald campus coordinator Stephanie Garoni addresses the students.

Photo: Associate Professor John Rolfe, Kystrina Holland (STEPS graduate) and Cr Paul Bell.