This year we have introduced a new award to acknowledge one of our Year 12 boarding students. The Boarding Award is presented to a student who has demonstrated excellent service and leadership within the boarding community throughout her time at the College.

This boarder models our Mercy values, showing kindness and empathy in her interactions with others.

Since commencing boarding in Year 8, Holly has wholeheartedly lived the Mercy values, willingly giving her time to support other boarders and the boarding staff. She is always keen to lend a hand or an ear, wherever she sees a need.

Holly is considerate and thoughtful towards others and she has quietly led the way in community events on many occasions. She has been highly committed to her studies, sporting teams and her role on the Boarding Representative Council, attending to each with complete dedication and always giving of her best.

Holly also received the 2019 Runner-Up ACCESS DUX Award.

We asked Holly what winning this award meant to her.

“Receiving the inaugural Boarding Award for 2019 is a massive honour. Boarding is my home away from home and to know that I have left a valuable impression behind at the completion of my high school journey is personally satisfying. I strive to be a great role model to my peers and especially the younger girls. Guiding them through everything I have already experienced in my five years as a boarder, is fulfilling as a student leader.

Winning this award has given me the reassurance that I have helped many of my sisters and that I was also able to build great relationships and the respect of the boarding staff. Receiving this award means so much to me, and this honour would not be possible without the support of all the wonderful girls, House Mothers, teachers and my parents who have personally influenced me to become who I am in life. I have been privileged to have so many opportunities at Santa Maria College.”