From the President – September 2024




Welcome to the September edition of the Old Girls’ Association Blog.
This year is flying by. I am avoiding the shopping centres as I have a feeling the Christmas decorations might already be going up!
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the College for the introduction of the Mercy Awards. The inaugural event was held a couple of weeks ago, and what a fantastic evening it was.
As a former boarder, I was thrilled to see Fatima Horta recognised as one of the recipients of this award. The joy she has brought to the College for almost 50 years cannot be measured. I would also like to extend my congratulations to Roslind Witham, (Class of 1987). Her work advocating for road safety and supporting individuals with disabilities makes her so deserving of this award.
I would urge you all to read the bios of the two winners in this month’s blog.
Below is the list of 2024 Mercy Award Finalists
NAME
Diann Black
Helen Chaffer
Emily Daniels
Geraldine Doogue
Veronique Heekeng
Fatima Horta
Jennifer Jansen
Paul Kinsella
Laurissa Knowles
Lee Lester
Sister Breda O’Reilly
Anne Pitos
Joanne Priest
Elizabeth Wilkes
Roslind Witham
Gwendolyn Wood
John Wray
CATEGORY
Service
Service
Service
Service
Hospitality
Hospitality
Compassion
Excellence
Compassion
Compassion
Justice
Excellence
Justice
Hospitality
Service
Service
Service
AFFILIATION
Alumni
Past Staff
Alumni
Alumni
Staff
Staff
Staff
Staff
Past Staff
Alumni
Staff
Past Staff
Staff
Alumni
Alumni
Alumni
Staff
Thank you to everyone who submitted a nomination. It is so important to recognise those who live by the mercy values in our community.
Until next time,
Gemma Varone (2009), President

- FromthePresident
Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.

From the President – February 2025
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