VC promotes staff development through networking

The University of Queensland Vice-Chancellor, Professor Deborah Terry, has launched The University of Queensland Professionals Network (UQPN) to promote staff development and networking.

UQPN, previously known as The University of Queensland Secretaries’ and Office Professionals’ Association (UQSOPA), is the oldest staff association with a new name.

The President of UQPN, Lesley Forest said: "The new name better reflects, on a holistic level, the community of professional staff that we have here at UQ."

As the new patron of UQPN, Professor Terry acknowledged UQSOPA has been a great support to UQ staff members since 1976.

“This enables me to thank a very special group of people who do so much to ensure the smooth running of our departments, schools, faculties, institutes and senior executive offices,” she said.

Professor Terry also encouraged staff members to pursue development and networking opportunities outside their direct working circle.

“Through education and networking opportunities, The University of Queensland Professionals Network is helping UQ’s professionals to be resilient and have the right skills to meet future job demands and changes,” she said.

Ms Forest said UQPN provided its members with great opportunities for professional development and networking with other UQ professionals.

"We are looking forward to continuing to evolve the annual conference into a professional development experience that is both challenging and rewarding," she said.

"Networking opportunities open up avenues to explore new ideas and exchange expertise.

"It enables creativity, friendship and a greater sense of community at UQ."

Ms Forest said the new UQPN aimed to bring more life and work balance to UQ office professionals as the needs were expressed.

UQPN is hosting an EQ workshop in June following the huge success from the same workshop at 2011 UQSOPA conference.

“The feedback showed that Dominic Siow’s emotional intelligence (EQ) workshop was very inspirational and energised our members,” Ms Forest said.

“Therefore we endeavour to bring this workshop back to UQ for more people to experience the difference." Ms Forest said.

UQPN marketing manager Ariel Ho said that the UQPN coordinated a variety of courses and offered a full program of activities.

“We will continue to provide new and exciting course offerings in the future,” Ms Ho said.

All courses are available to all UQ staff members through UQPN and the Staff Development websites.

Information on UQPN and membership details can be found online.

Media: Ariel Ho, 07 3365 1163 or l.ho@uq.edu.au