A University of the Sunshine Coast associate lecturer and graduate who won top awards for both her work and her studies has been appointed to the Queensland Mental Health and Drug Advisory Council.

The Queensland Government has announced Emma Kill as one of 11 new appointees to the 15-member council.

Ms Kill, who is now studying a Master of Social Work at USC, won the Chancellor’s Medal for her Bachelor of Social Science (Community Work) in 2005 and a national citation for her work with USC’s Tertiary Preparation Pathway program in 2011.

She coordinates links between TPP (USC’s alternative entry program) and Burnside State High School’s STEMM program, to create tertiary education pathways for young mothers on the Sunshine Coast.

She also works with Indigenous people in Papua New Guinea on an economic development program, and is vice president of Queensland Injectors Health Network Management Board.

Ms Kill said she was thankful for the opportunity to provide a voice for people in the community who were not often heard, including in the student community.

“I’m excited to be able to follow current trends in the field and offer advice on improving mental health and wellbeing across the state,” said Ms Kill, who is appointed to the council for three years.

Queensland Mental Health Commissioner Dr Lesley van Schoubroeck said: “Emma Kill brings a passion for social justice and experience in working particularly with young people who have unjustly experienced discrimination and stigma.

“This is an area that the commission will focus on as we continue the task of guiding the reforms needed to improve mental health and minimise the adverse impacts of substance use in the community.”

Ms Kill also features in the ‘Graduating By Degrees’ chapter of USC's 20th anniversary celebration book, 'Visions', available now. For details go to www.usc.edu.au/story or contact the Co-op Bookshop at usc@coop.com.au.

— Julie Schomberg