Thank You, Gemma! A Heartfelt Farewell to Our President
We extend our deepest gratitude to Gemma Varone, President of the Santa Maria College Old Girls’ Association, for her remarkable service and leadership over the past eight years. Serving as President for seven of those years, Gemma has been instrumental in fostering growth, community, and connection among Santa Maria alumni, all while bringing enthusiasm and dedication to every event and initiative.
During her tenure, Gemma spearheaded various events and encouraged greater alumni involvement in College traditions like Mercy Days, Art Shows, and Drama Productions, all of which have warmly welcomed Old Girls back to the College. These events have been transformative, making Santa Maria not only a place where alumni reconnect but also one where they actively contribute to the College’s vibrant community.
A particularly impactful initiative Gemma championed was Homelessness We Care, an inspiring program that provides food to the homeless of Perth. Gemma has taken a hands-on role in this program, cooking, collecting food, and distributing supplies. Through her leadership, the committee has rallied around this important cause, embodying the spirit of compassion and service.
Gemma’s leadership also saw the committee through challenging times, including the disruptions of COVID-19. With reunions at risk, Gemma and the College worked together to adapt, creating the larger, more inclusive reunion model that has since brought so many alumni together.
On behalf of the Santa Maria College Old Girls’ Association and its committee, we thank you, Gemma, for your years of dedication, warmth, and leadership. We wish you all the best in the future, including the exciting wedding plans, and look forward to welcoming you at future Old Girls’ events.
With gratitude
Gwen Wood, Treasurer and the Old Girls’ Association Committee
- AlumniLeadership, CollegeCommunity, CommunityEngagement, Featured, GemmaVarone, OGAPresident, OldGirlsAssociation
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 – March 2025
Another month, another update! Read about the fantastic alumni reunion, the delicious catering, and upcoming events, including the Biennial General Meeting (BGM) on 17 March. Plus, a warm welcome to the Class of 1975, the new Golden Girls. Stay connected with the alumni network!
2025 OGA Movie Night!
The 2025 OGA Movie at Palace Cinemas watching Bridget Jones Mad About The Boy. Our charity partner for this event is Zonta House Refuge Association a not-for-profit organisation that provides support and accomodatino services to women experiencing family and domestic violence.
Your Invitation to the Old Girls’ Association BGM
You’re invited to join us for the BGM of the Santa Maria College Old Girls’ Association. This meeting is a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow alumni, hear about the Association’s recent achievements, and share ideas for future events and initiatives.
