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.
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From the President – August 2026
The August 2026 Old Girls’ Association President’s Report provides an update on upcoming meetings and alumni activities at Santa Maria College. President Mary Heavens outlines plans for the Pleiades Gathering, the inaugural Santa Maria College and Aquinas social event, and the Golden Girls’ lunch welcoming the Class of 1976.
Sophia, Building Beauty, Confidence and a Business
Santa Maria past student Sophia Whimp (2022) has built a successful home beauty business by combining creativity, resilience and a commitment to authentic client relationships. In this Q&A, she reflects on the lessons she learned at school, the challenges of starting a business at a young age, and the advice she has for students hoping to turn their passion into a career.
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Celebrating Visual Art at Santa Maria – Art Day 2026
