The University of the Sunshine Coast has launched an impressive book, called ‘Visions’, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of its official opening.

The 240-page coffee-table book captures USC’s history through the transformational stories of its people, from when the University opened its doors to just 524 students in 1996 to having more than 12,000 students starting Semester 1 today.

‘Visions’ mentions hundreds of people connected to the University and features more than 400 images, from new professional photographs to treasures from personal and USC archives.

Author Julie Schomberg, a USC staff member and graduate, interviewed 140 past and present students, staff and community members to personalise the achievements and challenges of one of Australia’s fastest-growing universities.

“This project was an opportunity to track down some extraordinary stories and explain what USC is all about, particularly for readers who haven’t seen its growth or realised its impact,” said Ms Schomberg, a journalist of more than 20 years.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Greg Hill launched the book on Friday at a special ceremony on campus that was attended by hundreds of invited guests.

Professor Hill, who joined USC in 2005 and became Vice-Chancellor in 2011, said the 14 chapters of ‘Visions’ reflected different themes of the University’s development, from innovation and sustainability to research and partnerships.

“The book also forecasts our future, just as we’re expanding interstate to Melbourne and north to the Fraser Coast, starting work on new health research institutes, and planning a huge new campus in the Moreton Bay region by 2020,” he said.

Published by the University of the Sunshine Coast, it is on sale for $24.95 at the Co-op Bookshop on campus at Sippy Downs, call 5430 1205 or email usc@coop.com.au.

Emeritus Professor Paul Thomas, USC’s founding Vice-Chancellor until 2010, said he was delighted at the book’s readability and accessibility to everyone, not just University insiders.

“The stories in here are vivid reminders of people and events, and are melded well to balance the deeply personal with the factual history,” he said.

— Terry Walsh