Recently-retired CQU Professor Lesley Warner has been recognised for developing a program which has prepared thousands of women for tertiary level studies in science and technology.

A morning tea was held at CQU Rockhampton on Tuesday, August 22, to honour her contribution to the enabling program.

Participants included Federal Member for Capricornia Kirsten Livermore, WIST students, staff members involved with the WIST program and WIST coordinators, past and present.

Several speakers spoke on the theme of Professor Warner's tenacity in gaining funds and developing WIST to a self-sustaining level. The very first funding cheque for the program was displayed.

Former Science Dean Errol Payne noted that more than 25% of WIST students went on to apply for CQU undergraduate programs and that some applied for places at other universities.

He said many WIST students found the program built confidence and allowed them to help their teenage children with maths and science homework.

Professor Warner sourced the original funding for the Women Into Science and Technology (WIST) program in 1989 and continued to source internal and external funding until ongoing Faculty funding could be secured. WIST now attracts Federal funding and thus contributes to CQU's overall income.

As director of the program since its inception, Professor Warner has ensured the program continues to be self-paced to fit in with women's multiple roles and responsibilities.

More than 4000 students have enrolled in WIST since the start of the program 20 years ago. The program is available to women throughout Australia.

Photo: Gin Gin-based WIST student Beryl 'Ann' Huxley, current WIST coordinator Robyn Donovan, former Science Dean Errol Payne, Federal MP Kirsten Livermore and Professor Lesley Warner at the morning tea.