Lessons for the future

This is the first edition of Connect since I commenced in the role of Executive Director of Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) last month. I write to introduce myself through this publication and also to provide a brief glimpse of what I bring to this very significant role in Catholic education.

This publication, instigated by Archbishop Fisher, is a wonderful way to demonstrate the links between the Archbishop, the wider Church community and those of us involved in Catholic education.

I am humbled to be appointed to this role. I know the importance of my position as a custodian of Catholic education and its significance in the lives of families and in particular students.

In a world where secular issues threaten to challenge the core of who we are and the values we stand for, it has never been more important to ensure that the young people entrusted to our care are given opportunities to know the message of Jesus Christ.

Throughout my professional career, I have been strongly connected to the Catholic Church through a variety of roles including the past decade as the Executive Director of the Catholic Commission for Employment Relations (CCER), and as a member of the Sydney Catholic Schools (SACS) Board. These roles have given me insight and understanding into what authentic Catholic schools look like.

As Director of the Archbishop of Sydney’s 2020 Project, I understand that every parishioner wants our parishes to be vital, growing and teeming with life.

I am passionate about constructing vibrant faith communities on the foundation of the traditions of our Catholic Church.

My focus is very much on our schools and how I can ensure they are properly resourced and supported, as well as ensuring that every student has access to a high quality education and teachers who nurture, challenge and inspire them to achieve their potential.

I look forward to working with all school and parish communities in various capacities as we work together to build thriving Catholic communities.