1986: Maintaining the spirit of inquiry

Views: 19,253 views. Comments: 1 Comment.
Tags: centenary-edition, economics

Bill Richmond, PhD

By the time Bill Richmond received a PhD in economic history in 1986 he had already been on the staff of The University of Queensland for many years.

Dr Bill Richmond

Dr Richmond continues to teach part-time in the School of Economics, yet since he has stopped working for the University on a full-time basis, his interest in helping individuals to broaden their horizons and pursue intellectual interests has extended to the other end of the age spectrum.

In order to expand the opportunities of those searching for ways to maintain an inquiring spirit, Dr Richmond has established an independent not-for-profit organisation under the title of MindVentures.

“People over the age of 50-something – particularly after they ‘retire’ from work and no longer have the same family commitments – are often looking for ways in which they can keep their minds active, delve into subjects that they have never had a chance to study in depth and foster contact with others who enjoy doing likewise,” he said.

MindVentures offers regular courses and programs – in both a one-day and extended short break format – that cover a wide variety of subjects including the arts, social sciences and science. The activities are held both in Brisbane and different locations in eastern Australia.

“Many programs have drawn on staff and postgraduate students of the University to present components, and we have also been able to showcase University facilities and provide a valuable link between the University and the community,” Dr Richmond said.

“We’ve been particularly pleased also to be able to use the services of many retired members of staff who have found an avenue to maintain their passion for communicating their knowledge to interested people.

“One of our most enjoyable and stimulating programs, for example, was on Heron Island and coordinated by staff of the University’s research station on the island.

“And we have regularly drawn also on current and retired classics and ancient history academic staff, with some programs incorporating a visit to the University’s Antiquities Museum.”

• Home
• Graduate Contact
• Alumni Profiles
• Global Education: Divining world trends