A USC Fraser Coast student who balances university study with caring for her daughter with cerebral palsy has discovered the difference that receiving a scholarship can make.

“It makes it all possible,” said Shelley Hibbert, who has been awarded a $10,000 Thompson Study Support Scholarship for students in need, including those with carer’s responsibilities that impact on study time.

The Bachelor of Human Services student is one of eight students formally presented with a scholarship, bursary or academic prize by donors at a special event at the Fraser Coast campus on Monday 13 February.

Funded by USC, Fraser Coast businesses, organisations and individuals, the scholarships and awards encourage academic excellence and provide financial support to help students reach their full potential.

“I would have been left with little choice but to leave university this year without this generous scholarship,” Ms Hibbert said. The mother of four plans to work as a case manager for families of children with disabilities when she graduates.

Other award recipients are:
• Faye Bartlett, Freemasons of Hervey Bay Bursary for high achieving first year nursing students - $1,000
• Sharon Tierney and Rebecca King, Lucy Harris Nursing Bursary - $1,000 per student
• Rachel Sewell, Fraser Coast Anglican College Prize in Education for highest achieving second or third year Bachelor of Education student - $500
• Paul Hoggard, Drew Stephenson Chartered Accountants Prize for highest achieving first year accounting student - $ 500
• Emma McCarthy, Inner Wheel Club and Rotary Club of Hervey Bay Prize in Nursing - $500
• Monica Boulton, USC Chancellor’s Scholarship - $20,000.

Among the donors attending the presentation will be Dr Vernon Harris, who will present two bursaries to Nursing Science students through the Lucy Harris Bursary that was established in memory of his wife.

USC Vice-Chancellor Professor Greg Hill said with more people on the Fraser Coast taking up tertiary study, there was a growing need to offer extra support to the region’s students.

“Enrolments at USC Fraser Coast have doubled in just one year, and new undergraduate degrees have been introduced at the campus in 2017.

“This presents a great opportunity for individuals, businesses and community groups to assist, encourage and inspire regional students along their education journey.”

Donations to scholarships are fully tax deductible and 100 percent of donations go directly to assist students. For details contact USC Development Officer Greg Bradley at gbradley@usc.edu.au 075456 5744.

— Clare McKay