Ethical Investment Driving Better Outcomes for Students.
When Carolyn Mee was appointed as CEO of Lincoln College, she concedes her knowledge of UC Invest was “zero”.
However, she was impressed to discover that UC Invest is not only a values-based investment organisation but also channels its profits back into the community.
“It’s not just about making money,” Carolyn says. “The profits go back to people who need financial help or services. It’s a much more personalised experience that you just don’t find elsewhere.”
Lincoln College is a residential college that offers quality, homely accommodation for up to 214 tertiary students. Most attend one of Adelaide’s universities but TAFE students and trade apprentices are also welcome. The college is open to local, regional, interstate and international students from all walks of life and it prides itself on its cultural diversity.
It provides students with their own individual rooms and all meals in an academically and emotionally supportive environment, while giving them the chance to share their experience with others living away from home who are navigating similar challenges. And it is precisely why Lincoln College takes its choice of investment partner so seriously.
“Knowing that our investment with UC Invest helps the wider community is a really important thing for our college,” explains Carolyn.
“It sets an example for our students to be a part of something bigger than just us.
“UC Invest aligns with our egalitarian approach to the students we take into the college.
“For some of them, we can offer opportunities they wouldn’t normally have because of socio-economic means or distance so that’s really important.
“Education is everything. In some cases, it breaks the cycle for young people and being part of UC Invest helps us to do that.”
Wholesale investor.
While Lincoln College is a wholesale investor, it places tremendous value on the “boutique experience” provided by UC Invest.
“Sometimes bigger is not always better. A smaller institution that we can be a part of is a much better feel for us,” Carolyn says. “We have strong connections with the people at UC Invest so when we ring or email, we know who we’re dealing with. We’re not just a number.”
Lincoln College receives no government or private funding and relies solely on student fees and its investments. The college has a share portfolio that generates returns, allowing it to offer scholarships for some students. But it won’t compromise on the integrity of those investments.
“UC Invest has an ethical investment policy and that is really important to us,” Carolyn says. “We’re very conscious of where and how that money is being invested.
“It’s important that the people we work with share the same values and ethical standards so, UC Invest marries up really nicely with us.”
Financial services.
UC Invest has also provided Lincoln College with key loans that have allowed them to improve their facilities for the benefit of their students.
“Most recently, they helped us finance the upgrade of our study centre,” she says. “We had a space that was fairly dark and dingy. We were able to take out a small loan and have since converted it into a vibrant and modern workspace. “Without UC Invest, that simply wouldn’t have been possible.”
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