The first of 10 recipients of the AMAQ Foundation scholarship program has graduated from James Cook University.

Dr Emily Vagg graduated in December last year and was the first recipient of the scholarship which provides financial support for medical students who intend to study, and practice in rural and remote areas throughout Queensland.

For the past three years funding for the scholarship was provided by the Foundation’s major corporate supporter, Sullivan Nicolaides Pathology, whose North Queensland Manager David Rowbottom attended Dr Vagg’s graduation lunch.

Director of the AMAQ Foundation Board Dr Mason Stevenson said the Foundation acknowledged the wonderful support of Sullivan Nicolaides Pathology.

Dr Stevenson also said it had been a great pleasure to support Emily with this scholarship and to monitor her successful progress through the six-year course.

Dr Vagg will now undertake her internship at Townsville Hospital followed by two years studying a program to become a rural generalist.