University and bank join forces to grow Northern Rivers emerging business talent

Northern Rivers business students will have the opportunity to build meaningful careers close to home through a new partnership between Southern Cross University and Summerland Bank.

The initiative will offer placements, case studies, industry projects and pathways from study to employment that support Bachelor of Business students to establish careers in the NSW Northern Rivers region.

As part of the partnership, business professionals from Summerland Bank will provide Southern Cross University students with mentoring, networking opportunities, real-world business challenges, and internships.

Southern Cross University Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research and Education Impact), Ben Roche, said the initiative seeks to develop the region's future business leaders in collaboration with the region's current business leaders.

"Regional communities thrive when talented people can study, work and build their careers close to home. Creating the next generation of business owners, managers and leaders in partnership with our region's business leaders will help drive the future prosperity of our region," said Mr Roche.

Professor Mike Ewing, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Business, Law and Arts, said the partnership provides students with learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom.

"By working closely with Summerland Bank, we're giving students access to real-world industry experience and helping them build the professional skills, networks and confidence they need to succeed after graduation," Professor Ewing said.

Summerland Bank Deputy CEO (Strategy), John Williams, said the partnership reflects Summerland Bank's long-standing commitment to supporting the communities it serves by creating opportunities for local people to live, learn and work in the region.

"When talented young people leave the region to pursue opportunities elsewhere, our communities miss out on the skills, ideas and leadership they bring. We want to help create pathways that allow more people to build rewarding careers right here in the Northern Rivers," said Mr Williams.

"During my degree, we were given lots of opportunities to connect with industry professionals. Now that I am graduating, I feel really prepared to enter the workforce."

"This partnership benefits students, local employers and the wider community by investing in the next generation of regional leaders."

The announcement builds on the Summerland Bank Scholarship, a $7,500 scholarship which supports a Bachelor of Business student in their studies at Southern Cross University.

Business graduate and Summerland Bank Scholarship recipient Isabella Dowd said the financial backing gave her the confidence and flexibility to achieve in her studies.

"Receiving this scholarship was a huge honour. The support from Summerland Bank motivated me to strive for success and opened a lot of doors for me," said Ms Dowd.

"During my degree, we were given lots of opportunities to connect with industry professionals. I had the opportunity to test out different areas of business before finding my passion in tourism and events. Now that I am graduating, I feel really prepared to enter the workforce."

About the Bachelor of Business

The Bachelor of Business at Southern Cross University provides students with a broad foundation across areas including marketing, finance, accounting, entrepreneurship, sustainability and business analytics. With a strong focus on real-world learning, students gain industry experience through professional placements, business engagement opportunities and overseas exchange programs, graduating with the skills and practical experience to thrive in a range of business careers.

About Summerland Bank

Founded in 1964 in the Northern Rivers region of NSW, Summerland Bank operates 10 branches across the Northern Rivers and south-east Queensland. A proudly certified B Corporation, the bank is committed to responsible banking, sustainability and strong local connections.

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