Day to revel in job well done

FROM philosophers to police officers, countless hours of study have finally paid off for hundreds of University of Tasmania students, with graduation ceremonies held in Hobart yesterday and today.

About 2000 people will have graduated by the end of today, including Lisa Denny, who graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy yesterday.

Her thesis used demographic and life course variables to explain how factors such as ageing, the presence of a partner, and/or the presence of a child affect skill utilisation over the lifespan.

It also explored how the experience differs for men and women, and how they engage with work, and the associated potential for successful life outcomes.

“Just two in five Australians are effectively using their complement of skills in the workforce. In other words, three in five Australians are not maximising their potential successful life outcomes,” she writes in today’s Talking Point.

Also among the impressive group of UTAS graduates were 66 Tasmania Police officers.

In line with her promotion to Inspector, mum Kate Chambers studied professional honours in police studies, specialising in public sector leadership and management.

“The balance of family and professional development is always a challenge,” she said.

“I’m really proud and I’m really grateful for the support of my family, colleagues and workplace.”

Tasmania Police is the only police service in Australia where training and promotion is linked to a bachelor of social science. All recruits achieve an associate degree through their studies at the training academy, with any further study optional.

Today’s graduation ceremonies will be held at the Federation Concert Hall in Hobart at 11am, 2.30pm, and 5.30pm.