The University of the Sunshine Coast has joined a national network that reinforces its commitment to fostering a culture of belonging across all campuses and in the wider community.
Welcoming Universities is a part of Welcoming Australia; an organisation committed to championing a welcoming culture for people of all backgrounds.
Welcoming Universities supports Australian tertiary institution to embed and advance welcoming, diversity, and inclusion practices across all areas of university life.
UniSC Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Helen Bartlett said it was a natural fit for the University, strengthening its alignment with councils in the City of Moreton Bay, Fraser Coast, and Sunshine Coast, who are members of the Welcoming Cities initiative.
"This membership is an extension of our shared values and commitment to communities across our campus footprint," Professor Bartlett said.
"It signals our focus on creating and fostering a culture where every student, staff member and community member feels they belong-regardless of background, identity or origin," she said.
"Through Welcoming Universities, we gain access to national networks and resources that help us better support international and marginalised students."
Professor Bartlett said the initiative would also enhance community collaboration and provide a platform for shared learning and innovation.
"This initiative opens new doors for collaboration with local councils and community groups that are aligning their activities with Welcoming Australia principles, reinforcing our role as a trusted partner in the communities we serve," she said.
"Welcoming Universities offers an avenue to share what we're already doing well and to learn from others-helping us grow stronger, together with our cities and regions.
"We are proud to be part of a national movement that values diversity as a strength and works to ensure every member of our university community feels respected and supported."
UniSC's participation in the network complements existing initiatives such as the Indigenous Direct Entry and Access Scheme (IDEAS), the Buranga Centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander engagement, and the University's Diversity and Inclusion Plan .
"We believe that education should be a welcoming experience for everyone. This engagement with Welcoming Universities will help us further embed inclusive practices and share knowledge with like-minded institutions across Australia."
For more information about UniSC's diversity and inclusion initiatives, visit: https://www.usc.edu.au/about/diversity-and-inclusion
Learn more about the Welcoming Universities initiative.
