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 

From the President – September 2024

Welcome to the September edition of the Old Girls’ Association Blog. This month, we celebrate the inaugural Mercy Awards, recognising the incredible contributions from Fatima Horta and Roslind Witham our worthy award winners. Their dedication to the College community and advocacy work highlights the true essence of mercy values.

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Sisterhood Networking Series – An Evening with Sandra Boyle

We hosted an inspiring Sisterhood Networking Session with Sandra Boyle, a pioneer in mediation and negotiation. Sandra shared her incredible journey from one of few women in a law cohort to becoming a leading figure in Australian law. The evening was filled with invaluable insights, camaraderie, and inspiration.

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Save the Date – Golden Girls Luncheon

The annual Golden Girls’ Luncheon is set for 7 November 2024 at Santa Maria College! A special event for alumnae who graduated in 1974 or earlier, it’s a day to reconnect, laugh, and relive cherished memories. Official invitations will arrive soon, so mark your calendars and get ready for a day of joy and nostalgia.

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