The University of the Sunshine Coast has almost secured the support it needs to create a unique paved pathway that will celebrate hundreds of graduates and, at the same time, financially assist current and future students.

The Graduate Walk initiative invites all USC alumni to purchase pavers engraved with their names and years of graduation, which will be used in a special pathway to commemorate the University’s 20th anniversary in 2016.

Proceeds from the sale of pavers go to the USC Study Support Bursary, which helps students who are experiencing financial stress.

USC Alumni Relations Officer Anita Edmonds said that of the 400 pavers initially available, less than 15 remained.

“It has been wonderful to see so many of our alumni support this initiative, which aims to not only recognise the achievements and legacy of our existing graduates, but also to contribute to future success,” she said.

“Many pavers have been secured as gifts by families or friends. It’s an ideal Christmas present to say ‘well done’ on a graduate’s achievements, while paying forward for the next generation of students.”

One alumnus whose name will be featured is Sunshine Coast Council Deputy Mayor Chris Thompson, who was among the first cohort of students to graduate from USC in 1999.

“Graduate Walk provides a great opportunity for past students to not only acknowledge the hard work and sacrifice they put in to achieve their degrees, but also to receive lasting recognition for their own contribution toward the University’s success over the past 20 years,” Councillor Thompson said.

Alumni – or their families and friends – can purchase one of the remaining pavers for a tax-deductable cost of $200 by contacting USC’s Development Office at development@usc.edu.au or (07) 5430 1104, or by visiting www.usc.edu.au/graduatewalk.

Graduate Walk will be officially unveiled on Friday 26 February 2016 to help kick off USC's 20th anniversary celebrations.

— Jarna Baudinette