The Country Universities Centre (CUC) Southern Downs has made a significant stride in its development with the appointment of its inaugural Centre Manager, Alyce Lotz.
After an extensive search, Ms Lotz, a Toowoomba local and University of Southern Queensland graduate, officially began her role on 12 August.
Ms Lotz brings a wealth of experience from her previous position at the University of Southern Queensland, where she played a key role in student recruitment and fostering connections with the broader community.
Her background has given her valuable insights into the challenges students face, which she believes will be crucial in her new role.
“From my own observations and from the experience of other regions across Australia, this program is a fundamental ‘game changer’ in supporting our students as they seek higher level education,” she said.
“Most importantly, it provides our tertiary students with options for study without necessarily moving out of the region.”
The CUC Southern Downs, announced earlier this year, is now fully established as an independent, not-for-profit organisation. It aims to offer free services to eligible students and local residents, making higher education more accessible within the region.
While the CUC will be based in Warwick, its reach will extend to students across the Southern Downs region. Currently in its development phase, the centre is expected to be fully operational before the start of the 2025 academic year.
