From the College Principal
Ms Joanne Rock
There are moments in the life of a school that feel deeply symbolic. Moments where the past, present and future come together in joyous celebration. The Opening and Blessing of the Mary Aquin Centre was one such occasion for our College.
Standing proudly on the footprint of the former Marian House, the new Year 9 and 10 Village represents far more than a contemporary learning space. It is a reflection of Santa Maria College’s enduring commitment to the education and wellbeing of young women, while honouring the legacy of those who have shaped our community over the past 120 plus years.
The Mary Aquin Centre has been thoughtfully designed to support the learning, connection and growth of students in Years 9 and 10, a pivotal stage in a young woman's development. Light-filled classrooms, collaborative spaces and calming communal areas create an environment where girls are known, supported and challenged to thrive. The building embodies the College’s Village Model and commitment to “Wellbeing for Learning,” providing spaces that foster belonging, independence and confidence.
The Opening and Blessing ceremony itself was made especially meaningful through the presence of many Sisters of the Good Samaritan, whose long standing connections to Santa Maria College continue to shape the spirit of the school today. Welcoming the Sisters into the new space served as a powerful reminder that while buildings may evolve, the Good Samaritan values at the heart of the College remain steadfast and as important as ever.
Many guests who attended the ceremony, alumnae, former staff, Good Samaritan Sisters and friends of the College, reflected on the remarkable transformation of the College over the years. Yet despite the many beautiful improvements and modern facilities, there was a shared sentiment echoed throughout the day: Santa Maria College still feels unmistakably like Santa. The College continues to hold the same warmth, spirit and sense of belonging that generations of students have experienced before them. What we know to be the enduring “Santa Spirit.”
Santa is a place of welcome, safety and love. A place where young women are encouraged to grow in confidence and character. A place where leaders, pioneers and compassionate changemakers are nurtured and inspired.
It was fitting that the building was named in honour of Sister Mary Aquin Kelly SGS an extraordinary woman whose story will now continue to inspire generations of Santa women.
Born Mary Agnes Kelly in 1878 while her family travelled from Ireland to Australia, Sister Mary Aquin entered the Good Samaritan Sisters at just 19 years of age. She became one of the pioneering Sisters connected to Santa Maria College, serving as Principal of Santa Maria High School in Northcote from 1904, before later returning as Secondary Principal in 1926.
Sister Mary Aquin was an innovator and trailblazer. In 1918, she became the first Good Samaritan Sister to enrol at Sydney University after approval was granted for Sisters to undertake university study. She pursued honours studies in French and Mathematics and later earned her Diploma in Education. At a time when opportunities for women were limited, Sister Mary Aquin embodied courage, intellect and a deep belief in the transformative power of education.
Her legacy lives on in the girls who now walk the corridors of the Mary Aquin Centre. Young women who are encouraged to think critically, lead with compassion and embrace opportunity with confidence.
For alumnae returning to the College, the development of new buildings can evoke both nostalgia and excitement. While the physical landscape of Santa Maria continues to evolve, the spirit of the College remains deeply familiar. We honour the women and Good Samaritan Sisters who paved the way, while ensuring today’s students are equipped for the future.
As we gathered to bless this remarkable new space, there was a shared sense of great Joy and Community. It was a celebration of legacy, innovation and hope and a reminder that every generation of Santa women contributes to the story of this extraordinary place.
