Prominent alumnus to inspire Melbourne graduation
Published on 13 May, 2010
Prominent alumnus Des Pearson will help inspire 96 graduates attending CQUniversity's ceremony in Melbourne, from 1.30pm on Friday May 14 at the Hilton on the Park Hotel in Wellington Parade.
Mr Pearson is the Auditor-General of Victoria and previously served as Western Australia's Auditor-General. Biographical details: Des Pearson
Former CQUniversity Vice-Chancellor John Rickard will be appointed as an Emeritus Professor of the University.
Bachelor of Accounting graduate Chamani Abeysinghe Siriwardhana will deliver the closing address on behalf of graduates.
Chamani is also one of three recipients of State Director's Awards which acknowledge outstanding academic achievement as well as leadership potential and qualities which inspire others such as: active contributions to learning activities; assistance to fellow students; respect for cultural diversity; and strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Chamani Abeysinghe Siriwardhana - Bachelor of Accounting Arriving in Melbourne three years ago, from Colombo, Sri Lanka, Chamani was encouraged by her family to pursue studies in accounting, building on the basic skills she had already learnt from her mother. Described by staff as a quiet achiever, Chamani's focus and dedication earnt her the highest grade in five courses and a solid record in all others. She attributes her success to the ongoing assistance of very helpful teachers and the unswerving support of her parents and husband. Recently married, she now hopes to complete a Masters degree and set up a company in Australia with her husband.
Avinder Kaur - Master of Information Technology Avinder arrived from India almost two years ago with a Master in Information Technology and experience as a teacher in government schools. She has now completed her second Master's degree with outstanding results including achieving the top grade in four of her courses. Teaching staff praised her strong character and commitment as well as her willingness to assist and motivate her fellow students. In future, Avinder would like to secure a role as a business analyst in the banking or IT sectors. Eventually she hopes to settle with her husband either in Australia or California where she has relatives.
Rajendrasinh Madan - Master of Information SystemsAlso from India, Raj arrived almost two years ago with a Bachelor of Engineering and experience working in stock market management. He was nominated for this award by several staff members who were impressed by his dedication to his studies and his ability to maintain a successful balance with his concurrent position in direct marketing. Raj praised the CQUniversity lecturers' skills and course content which he believes have provided him with a solid foundation to achieve his ambitions. His current goal is to find work as a business analyst in the finance /banking sector and settle permanently in Australia with his wife and young son.