A Coolum businessman who has devoted more than two decades to supporting innovative learning and career opportunities for USC Design students will be awarded an Honorary Senior Fellowship at a USC graduation ceremony on Thursday 28 September.

Steven Hall, who owns and operates the Coolum-based design and printing business Sunprint, will receive the award for his leadership in innovation and sustainability in the printing industry.

The ceremony at 12 noon at Matthew Flinders College Performance Centre will be one of four USC graduation ceremonies on Thursday, 28 September.

The award also recognises Mr Hall’s generous donation of his time and expertise to USC and its Bachelor of Design students, since the inception of the cross-media program in 1997.

“This award is very unexpected, but it is wonderful to be recognised in my field of work and for my contribution to USC over many years,” he said.

“I am passionate about the design and printing industry and I am pleased that USC students can benefit from this passion and my experience and connections.”

The recipient of more than 50 industry awards for innovation and sustainability in printing has served on three USC Design Advisory panels, and managed the production, print and installation of a range of student-led projects.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Greg Hill said Mr Hall had ensured USC’s commitment to quality and sustainability was reflected in its design programs and projects, both in Australia and overseas.

“From exhibitions in the USC Art Gallery to the Letaba Elephant Hall in South Africa, he regularly donates his time and expertise to these projects, assisting students to achieve the best possible design outcomes,” Professor Hill said.

“He has given countless hours to guiding and mentoring final-year USC Design students, and through his reputation and networks, has facilitated work opportunities for students in the local area and internationally.”

Mr Hall said many young students had gained fantastic careers from USC’s Design degree which had needed to continually evolve to keep up with the rapidly-changing technology in the industry.

“I have employed a number of USC graduates, and I would encourage other Sunshine Coast business to do the same.”