Majestic Cinemas opened its doors exclusively for the event, followed by food and drink in the CUC Macleay Valley facility. Families and friends came together to reflect on the students' journey in higher education.

The CUC facility provides a fully equipped learning space for students, making it easy for individuals to undertake their university study without having to leave the Macleay. Students can be enrolled in universities all over Australia and come to the CUC space to do their work.

Centre manager, Kinne Ring said this was the first graduation for the CUC in Kempsey, after they opened their doors earlier this year.

"It was really nice, and we had all of our students' names projected on the screen, and each of them talked about their experiences as a student," Ms Ring said.

"Especially after being in lockdown for so long to be able to connect again was great."

CUC Macleay Valley chairperson, Liz Campbell, said it was important to celebrate that local people are upskilling themselves.

"It takes significant sacrifice to commit to studies, especially if you do so by distance, often you are isolated and don't have the ability to make connections with your peers," Mrs Campbell said.

"With this Centre, and as we move through this pandemic and forward, we know connecting with each will always be important."

The CUC Macleay Valley students who graduated are:

Cindy Gorman has completed a Bachelor of Nursing at the University of Newcastle.

Nikki Bryant has completed a Masters of Special and Inclusive Education at the University of Newcastle.

Lachlan Townsend has completed a Bachelor of Business at the Southern Cross University.

Mr Townsend said he was very happy to have his graduation locally.

"It was a great evening and we are so appreciative to have been able to celebrate with CUC staff, our families and the board," Lachlan said.

"The CUC is an amazing facility and I am so proud to have it as part of our amazing community."

For 2022, the Centre already has students registering who have gained early entry into university. These students will have the support from the CUC Macleay Valley from the beginning of their study journey.

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