Roy and Nola Thompson | UniSC | University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia

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Roy and Nola Thompson

Honorary Doctorate (April 2018)

Roy and Nola Thompson were awarded Honorary Doctorates in April 2018 in recognition of their ongoing generosity and commitment, and tireless advocacy for the role of education in improving people’s lives.

Roy and Nola Thompson have made a remarkable contribution to both USC and the wider Sunshine Coast community.

While their generosity has been instrumental in USC’s growth and expansion, they have also been drivers of major changes to the provision of services across many community sectors. USC is extremely grateful for the significant financial contributions Roy and Nola have made to the University over many years.

Without their generosity, the Thompson Institute would not exist. This world-class facility is making a real difference to mental health research and treatment on the Sunshine Coast, and will be a key element in USC’s quest to become a research-intensive university. Roy and Nola have also contributed generously to vital campus infrastructure. However, as important is their ongoing support and advocacy for USC’s role in its communities.

Roy and Nola’s strong personal belief in the power of education has been instrumental in USC’s progress, and is evident in their support of our students through scholarships and bursaries. This generosity was recognised nationally in 2017, when they were named Queensland Higher Education Philanthropists of the Year. Roy and Nola are both active members and supporters of the Maroochydore Surf Club, major contributors to the fundraising campaign for Maroochy Beach Gymnastics Club, and donate to and support a wide range of programs across the Sunshine Coast. They are incredibly passionate about the community and regularly seek opportunities to provide support that will enable the Sunshine Coast to grow and prosper.