Term 2 Sisterhood Series Wrap Up
At Santa Maria College, we pride ourselves on fostering an environment where education extends beyond textbooks, particularly through our innovative Sisterhood Series. This initiative connects students from Years 10 to 12 with alumni across diverse career paths, offering insights and inspiration from those who have gone before them.
Our Sisterhood Series saw nine alumni volunteer their time to share their career and educational journeys. This term, students had the privilege of engaging directly with experts from fields as varied as law enforcement, graphic design, data analysis, paramedicine and hydrogeology. These sessions build networks and open doors to potential career paths that our students might not have considered.
Each session also teaches critical life skills such as creativity, collaboration, and resilience. For instance, Jessica Sutton’s transition from pharmacy to becoming an Art Director underscores the importance of continuous learning and adaptability. Meanwhile, Shandra Cohen’s career trajectory from the Australian Army to IT highlights problem-solving and critical thinking.
Alumni like Alethea Dreyer, who shared her passion for drama and education, not only teach but also reconnect with their roots at Santa Maria, fostering a strong sense of support and mentorship.









Guest Highlights This Term
Jessica Sutton (2004): A journey from pharmacy to the creative pulse of graphic design.
Alethea Dreyer (2001): Empowering the next generation through drama and education.
Shandra Cohen (1981): Data specialist who found her calling through an unconventional path.
Marie Egan (1988): Combining science with sustainability in horticulture and hydrogeology.
Nakita Harmon (2011): Delivering compassionate care as an Occupational Therapist.
Danni Veldsman (2010): From engineering to the frontline of healthcare as a paramedic.
Sophie Kerrigan (2010): A medical career shaped by dedication and diverse experiences.
Ashleigh Baker (2014): Turning a love for radio into a vibrant broadcasting career.
The Sisterhood Series continues to be a cornerstone of our commitment to preparing our students for the world beyond Santa Maria and maintaining strong connections with our alumni. By learning directly from those who have forged their paths before them, our students are not only planning their futures but are also inspired to carve their own unique paths with confidence and courage.
We would like to thank our guests this term and look forward to welcoming more alumni in Term 3.
- Alumni Stories, Career Development, Featured
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 2026
Starting off the year with our first blog post from our Alumni President, Mary Heavens, full of community spirit, upcoming events, and ways for every graduate to reconnect and give back.

Abbey Sullivan (Class of 2022) Receives Prestigious Berndt Memorial Prize
Abbey Sullivan (Class of 2022) has been awarded UWA’s Berndt Memorial Prize for Anthropology. Discover how her journey from Santa Maria to university is inspiring a future shaped by empathy, creativity, and purpose.

From Stage Lights to Community Spotlight – Pia Harris (2001)
From dancing at age three to directing for WA Opera, Pia Harris (2001) has built a career on passion, people, and purpose. Discover how she’s now empowering the next generation through music and community.

A Warm Welcome to 2026 – The Parent Sundowner









