Genazzano FCJ College - GenNarrations July 2018 Edition

GenNarrations JULY 2018

Giving Thanks with Grateful Hearts Celebrating Our Connections: The O’Callaghan Family - A Century of History Interviews with Genazzano Alumnae, Staff & Students

JULY 2018

GenNarrations is the biannual magazine of Genazzano FCJ College.

Editor & Project Manager Lara Antonelli-Leorke lara.antonelli-leorke@genazzano.vic.edu.au

Contents JULY 2018

INTERVIEW WITH KEVIN FRAWLEY CHAIR OF COLLEGE COUNCIL

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MARY JONES - HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL - INTERVIEWED BY P-6 PREFECT ERIKA CHOONG

INTERVIEW WITH AMANDA MCKENZIE ELC LEAD TEACHER

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INTERVIEW WITH ROSS SHEARER HEAD OF GROUNDS

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Deputy Editor Amanda Presta amanda.presta@genazzano.vic.edu.au Cover Image Photographed by Tom Coolledge, featuring the O’Callaghan Family. Claire O’Callaghan with granddaughter Lily Gilmour (Year 10), and daughters Megan Gilmour & Fiona Townsing in the background.

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THE O’CALLAGHAN FAMILY A CENTURY OF HISTORY

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INTERVIEW WITH ALUMNA SOPHIE MCGRATH

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NEWS FROM THE FCJ SISTERS

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GEN/XAVIER MUSICAL THE HOT MIKADO

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Genazzano FCJ College 301 Cotham Road Kew VIC 3101 Telephone: +61 3 8862 1000 Facsimile: +61 3 8862 1133 Email: development@genazzano.vic.edu.au genazzano.vic.edu.au

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Message from the Principal KAREN JEBB | PRINCIPAL

Welcome to the first edition of GenNarrations for 2018. This edition is inspired by this years’ College theme, ‘Giving Thanks with Grateful Hearts’.

Genazzano FCJ College has a rich history formed over the years by many inspiring faith-filled people for whom we are grateful. In this edition of GenNarrations, you will see that we have featured members of our College community who contribute to making Genazzano what it is today; our students, teachers, leaders, boarders, alumnae, families and Sisters, fcJ. Over the past 129 years, members of the Genazzano community have been inspired by the story and example of Marie Madeleine d’Houët, founder of the Society of Faithful Companions of Jesus. She led an extraordinary life as a woman, daughter, sister, wife, widow, mother, foundress and religious Sister. Within a short time of Marie Madeleine’s death in 1858, people were speaking of her as a saintly woman and in 1916 she was recognised for her courageous faith, religious vision and heroic witness, and pronounced Venerable.

Marie Madeleine continues to inspire our College community to seek to find God in all things, by exercising the qualities of companionship, dignity, excellence, gentleness, hope, justice, courage and confidence. As members of this Genazzano community, we are called to be always alert to God’s grace in our life and express our gratitude for the abundant gifts that God has bestowed upon us. Gratitude is at the heart of our faith.

Gratitude can be a very powerful force for our spiritual and psychological wellbeing and the expression of gratitude has been a hallmark of this College.

The wisdom behind gratitude is really quite simple – acknowledging all the good we have in our lives in this moment intrinsically unlocks a treasure chest of abundance, filled with our hopes and dreams.

Gratitude is that appropriate response to the extraordinary kindness of God whose ever-loving nature wants only the very best for us all.

As Jesus states in John’s Gospel, “That they may have life, and have it to the full.” (John 10:10) I often hear expressions of gratitude from Genazzano Alumnae, particularly in regards to the opportunities they experienced while at school and the courage and confidence they gained during their formation years. Our cover story on the O’Callaghan family is a wonderful tribute to the deep bonds formed between the College and students as well as the ongoing generosity provided to the College from students long after they have left their schooling years behind them.

May you enjoy the stories and expressions of gratitude in this edition of GenNarrations and may they be an example of the diverse, inspiring and hope-filled community that makes Genazzano what it is today.

I give thanks with a grateful heart for the privilege of leading this College community with the faithful support and companionship of many extraordinary people. I look forward to shaping the direction of this College into the future with much passion, commitment, dedication, hope and love.

JULY 2018

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GENAZZANO FCJ COLLEGE

Kevin Frawley Chair of College Council COUNCIL | INTERVIEW BY LARA ANTONELLI-LEORKE (2000)

Kevin Frawley has been a member of College Council since 2009, and the Chair of College Council since 2016.

Genzzano is very much engrained in the Frawley family; Kevin’s wife Cathy Frawley (Beer, 1980) is an Alumna along with her sister, Rosey Beer (1977) and sister-in-law, Maureen Dowlan (1979), and all three of Kevin and Cathy’s daughters have attended Gen. Kate graduated back in 2014, whilst her siblings, Alice and Anna, are currently in Years 10 and 12 respectively.

Kevin is a Partner (Property & Development) at Arnold Block Leibler Lawyers and Advisers.

What has been your most memorable moment in this position?

The highlight to date was the opportunity to undertake the FCJ Pilgrimage to France in 2016. Cathy and I, together with our Principal, Karen Jebb, and the Principal of FCJ Benalla, Joanne Rock, travelled with FCJ Sisters and representatives of other FCJ schools from Europe and North America in the footsteps of Marie Madeleine d’Houët. In doing so, we learnt about her life, values and the guiding charism of the FCJ Sisters. It was remarkable to realise how the beliefs and work of one individual, Marie Madeleine, assumed by the FCJ Sisters, has done so much for others in far flung parts of the globe, and no doubt more than Marie Madeleine might have imagined 200 years ago. It was a salutary reminder as to how much can be achieved by individuals of faith, courage and confidence, as we are called to be at Genazzano.

Your connection to the College spans not only your venerated appointment, but as a parent of three Genazzano girls and husband to an Alumna. How has Genazzano become a part of the tapestry of your family?

Genazzano has always been an intrinsic part of our family. Not only was my wife Cathy educated at Genazzano from Prep, my sister Maureen attended Genazzano as well (after both my sister and I received our early education from the FCJ Sisters at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Deepdene). This was the background to enrolling our daughters at Genazzano, and we have been thoroughly rewarded in doing so by the many wonderful experiences we have had with our daughters, their friends and other parents, on each of their journeys.

As Chair of College Council, what aspect of your role are you most grateful for?

What do you love and admire most about the Genazzano community?

I am privileged to have the opportunity to engage with the life of the College in numerous ways, as I meet regularly with representatives of the FCJ Sisters, the FCJ Education Board, other Colleges, Genazzano staff members and our parent community. In doing so, I have the opportunity to engage with many interesting and highly committed people, who have enriched my experience of life at Genazzano.

The deep care and commitment that the community has for each other and for the welfare of the College. Through my involvement with the Genazzano Fathers’ Association, and Cathy’s involvement with the Genazzano Mothers’ Association, we have met countless people who give freely and generously of their time for the benefit of others.

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Can you give an example of how the College shows its gratitude for its students, staff and community as a whole?

GenWelcomes is a shining example of a traditional event which is unique to Genazzano and which brings the parent community together at the beginning of each school year. It is one of a number of events in our school calendar when we come together as a community to celebrate the achievements of our daughters and to recognise the contributions made by our dedicated teachers.

What are you most grateful to Genazzano for?

I am grateful to Genazzano for many things, not least the fact that the breadth of its education and Co-curricular Programs has meant that each of our daughters has found different pathways to shine, and to become thinking, confident young women, able to discern and express their opinions, based on sound morals and values - a parent can ask for little more than this. At a personal level, through our involvement at Genazzano as parents, both Cathy and I have also made many friendships with many terrific people.

Kevin's wife Cathy Frawley with their two daughters, Alice and Anna.

Is there a particular part of Genazzano’s history that resonates with you?

From my perspective, one of the key parts of Genazzano’s history is the fact that it has long been a boarding school, and is now the only Catholic girls’ boarding school in Victoria. I believe that our boarders and the involvement of their families serves to enrich the experience of our daughters and brings a valuable additional perspective to our city-based College community. This resonates with me because one of the first major decisions in which I was involved as a member of Council related to a review of our Boarding Program, which I am pleased resulted in our decision to recommit to it. This has since culminated in the recent full reintegration of Hopetoun Hall from an operational perspective. I also recognise with gratitude the contribution of our many boarding families who for many years assumed responsibility for the management of our Boarding House at Hopetoun Hall.

What are your future hopes for the College?

My main hope is that Genazzano will continue to be a leading private Catholic girls’ school, which aims to provide a broad curriculum, with a view to providing the best education possible, grounded solidly in faith, and the ethics and morals which otherwise appear so lacking in so many parts of modern life. I hope that Genazzano will continue to produce independently minded young women who are well prepared to assume positions of leadership in our community, for the betterment of our country.

What does ‘Giving Thanks with Grateful Hearts’ mean to you and your family?

There are so many distractions in our modern world, with the constant intrusion of technology and materialism. It is all too easy to lose sight of what is important. Each of us lives in privileged circumstances in what is no doubt the greatest country in the world. There is so much to be thankful for, in how we are able to live, including the educational opportunities that are provided to our daughters at Genazzano. It is important that this is recognised for the honour that it is, and the responsibility which arises in turn to use that education, and the skills developed as a result, for the betterment of our community, and not just ourselves. I hope that the examples of volunteering demonstrated by so many in the Genazzano community will serve to inspire our daughters in turn to make valuable contributions to our society.

About the Interviewer LARA ANTONELLI-LEORKE (ANTONELLI, 2000) | PUBLICATIONS & DIGITAL CONTENT COORDINATOR

After graduating from Genazzano in 2000, Lara studied a Bachelor of Arts at Melbourne University, majoring in Political Science. Lara’s adeptness for writing and telling a story steered her towards print and online journalism, which has resulted in a 14 year freelance journalism career contributing to many high profile fashion and music publications in Australia and overseas.

In a varied and plentiful career, Lara also spent the last decade working as a Senior Account Manager, Group Account Director and Senior Copywriter at advertising and social media agencies throughout Melbourne.

Lara is now the founder and editor-in-chief of fashion, music and travel website, Pen To Paper Media, as well as the Director of her creative marketing agency, Rising Creative.

Working at Genazzano in a part-time capacity since 2014, after the birth of her first son Augustus (she is now expecting her second son), Lara took up the role of editor and copywriter at the College, creating content for all internal and external digital and print communication. This has included the College’s GenNarrations magazine, and this edition marks Lara’s fourth as Editor & Project Manager.

Lara is grateful to Genazzano for providing her with a place that not only nurtured her education, but her sense of self, and credits the College’s warm and welcoming environment for the lifelong friendships she has formed.

JULY 2018

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GENAZZANO FCJ COLLEGE

Mary Jones -

Head of Junior School EXECUTIVE TEAM | INTERVIEW BY ERIKA CHOONG

What does the College theme, ‘Giving Thanks with Grateful Hearts’ mean to you?

The College theme is a powerful reminder to acknowledge the many blessings I am gifted with every day - for a beautiful family, a job I absolutely love, for the stunning grounds I walk through, the friends and colleagues who support me and make me laugh, and for good health. It is so easy to take all these things for granted, and yet so simple to be thankful for them too! For all of us at Genazzano, we have been blessed with a wonderful learning environment and the opportunity to really make our world a better place - gratitude for this is a wonderful starting point.

What are you most grateful for at Genazzano?

This is a hard question, there are so many things! Although the students come to mind straight away. I love meeting and greeting them each morning and chatting with them as they arrive at school.

The girls are so positive and really love learning and they inspire me to be the best teacher and leader I can be. I am also grateful for a fantastic team of teachers that work in the Junior School. Each of them is so determined and committed to being their best for the students and they are always willing to learn, grow and be challenged - that is a huge blessing for me in my role.

What do you believe the students at Genazzano appreciate the most?

I actually asked some of the girls this exact question recently. Each girl I asked mentioned her friends at school and her teachers. They all said that their friends and teachers really cared for them and that is something they value.

How do you teach the students of the Junior School to be more thankful for what they have?

I think giving each student time to reflect and think about the good things we are surrounded by is really important. Our students and their families live busy lives and sometimes it is good to stop, be quiet and still, and have the chance to think about what we are grateful for and this can often lead to a quiet prayer of gratitude. I think staff and their families can model gratitude too for the students - saying thank you to one another is a simple but oh-so-important gesture.

What is the significance of family and community at Genazzano?

One of the things that has struck me since joining Genazzano is the very strong and visible sense of community. I have found people to be very welcoming of new people in the community, willingly answering questions and supporting one another. I know the new mums this year have been warmly embraced by the Grange Hill mums and included in communications, updates and coffee dates! Families are central to the work of all of us at the College. Parents are the first educators of their daughters and when we work in partnership together, anything is possible! In fact, research shows that there are better learning outcomes for students when their parents and teachers work together - we need each other.

What makes Genazzano’s community genuine and different to other schools?

For me, the FCJ charism is a unique and treasured aspect of Genazzano. From the moment I joined the College, the history, tradition and story of the Sisters FCJ has been referred to at staff gatherings and meetings, assemblies and Eucharists, Gen Day the list goes on. ‘Companionship’ is not just spoken about but lived out every day by the students, staff and families, in the way in which each is supported.

I see students developing their confidence to take risks, step out of their comfort zones and make a difference to others; just witnessing the Prep to Year 4 students plan and enact events to raise money for Caritas Australia demonstrates how the FCJ charism of ‘making a difference’ is lived out.

GIVING THANKS WITH GRATEFUL HEARTS

How have you made a positive impact on Genazzano and its community?

I hope I have helped to build the community across Prep - Year 6 and develop a greater sense of connectedness and cohesion in what we do together. We have had more frequent opportunities to get together and celebrate our achievements and learning, and this has been a positive step forward for staff and students. I think I have built very positive relationships with our families that enable us to partner together in supporting our girls to be their best.

What drew you to join the Genazzano community?

I had been working with Catholic Education Melbourne in a consultancy role for a couple of years during which I learnt so much about what makes a great school tick - and it was time for me to get back into a school and enact some of what I had learnt! This role came up and it seemed like it would be a challenge professionally and a new environment for me in which to learn, grow and lead others to do the same. Ms. Jebb’s leadership was a huge drawcard for me also, as I knew I would be working with a dynamic and passionate leader who is focused on students and their learning.

What aspect of your work as the Head of the Junior School makes you most excited to get up in the morning?

This one is easy - seeing the girls each day. They make me smile, laugh, think, question and wonder, all at once! I love working with the teachers to plan the best possible learning pathways for each student and seeing the many successes along the way.

What is a recent act of gratefulness you have witnessed by a student or a colleague?

One thing I experience repeatedly at Genazzano is the thankfulness of the students for whatever you do for them - whether it be teaching a lesson or finding a band-aid - the girls here are appreciative of the efforts we go to, to support and assist them. I would be showered with “Thank You” after every Year 6 RE class last year and it always made me smile!

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JUNE 2018

About the Interviewer ERIKA CHOONG | YEAR 12 PREFECT PREP TO YEAR 6

Erika Choong is currently studying VCE Units 3 & 4 undertaking English, Mathematical Methods, Specialist Maths, Chemistry and Health & Human Development. Erika hopes to pursue an Engineering undergraduate degree at either the University of Sydney or Melbourne.

Erika has experienced many outstanding achievements throughout her time at the College, including: participation in the Timor Leste excursion and participation in the Duke of Edinburgh Program.

Erika is most grateful for her Prefect role based around spending time with the most enthusiastic and beautiful young girls, highlighting Genazzano’s significant and supportive community, coupled with the multiplicity of opportunities the College offers as unique to the school.

“Genazzano has an incredibly special culture where you are treated and loved like family. It is rare at many other schools, but at Genazzano you are lucky enough to be able to be friends with your entire year level. Genazzano’s community is family. There is no difference between friends and family because at Genazzano there is an effort made by everyone to build and maintain the community between year levels, houses and families. Genazzano’s history of resilient women demonstrating strength in the face of hardship is what resonates with me the most. I hope the College and its students continue to live and augment Genazzano’s rich culture; with the school’s family-orientation and warm atmosphere continuing to thrive, and that traditions, school pride and spirit never stop flourishing.”

JULY 2018

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GENAZZANO FCJ COLLEGE

Ruan Bimrose Prep Teacher JUNIOR SCHOOL | PROFILE

Over the last 13 years I have thoroughly enjoyed developing my knowledge and understanding of children and their development.

I have taught everything from Prep to Year 7, the Arts and ICT in Queensland and was very excited to move to Victoria and take up the privileged position of Prep teacher at Genazzano. My career has been influenced highly by my interest in the Arts, gymnastics and travel.

These skills have influenced and assisted me in coordinating school dance performances and musicals, but nothing is as enjoyable as teaching Prep.

At Genazzano, I am enjoying teaching Prep for the second year, and love every minute with the girls. They are engaged and highly interested in every part of life. Each day, they bring a mountain of energy and a thousand questions. With our small class sizes it is possible for each girl to develop her voice and feel like a contributor to the class’s journey.

The girls are a core part of the planning process, with their interest and influence shaping the direction of the classroom.

As a teacher at Genazzano I am grateful for the wonderful grounds and resources available to the staff. We are supported by an amazing team which ensures our girls get the best from their education. Our fantastic IT department, library and resources ensure that we have everything we need each day. Most of all, I am grateful for both my students, and all of the Genazzano students who I interact with around the grounds each day.

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JULY 2018

Judith Crigan Senior Psychologist PERFORMANCE PSYCHOLOGY | PROFILE

I was a Genazzano student, beginning in the late 1970s, under the inspiring leadership of Sister Maryrose Dennehy, fcJ and Sister Margaret Mary Kennedy, fcJ. Although I didn’t realise it at the time, those two women modelled strong and caring leadership and established a culture of promoting achievement while caring for others. This has influenced my life in many ways; I have always believed I can achieve whatever I want. I haven’t let any obstacle dissuade me from embarking on a challenging path, or continuing on that path when there have been twists and turns. I am grateful for this gift of persistence and ability to maintain positivity in the face of adversity. It’s what keeps me happy and confident and has been a wonderful driver in my varied career. The researcher in me is dubious about assigning causation, but I think it is fair to say that the culture I was part of at Genazzano – and in particular the support I received from the many inspiring people I encountered during my time here – taught me to care for others and support them to achieve, while striving to be the best person I can be.

I am privileged to have worked in some very rewarding roles. My most recent role was an academic in tertiary teaching, research and consultancy. I worked to improve teaching in the Catholic sector, and I supported educational reform in developing countries. That work was at the systems level - determining the most effective ways that we can improve educational outcomes for education systems (e.g. state or national). I am very lucky to have been able to work at all levels of the system.

My life has now come full circle, back to Genazzano where I work as a Senior Psychologist, supporting the development of our girls and young women.

After graduating from the College over 30 years ago, I returned to give back to the community that served me so well.

In this role, I am in the privileged position of supporting our young women with the challenges they face. I can see in them some of the self-doubts and fears that I experienced and overcame with the help of some wonderful mentors. To these wonderful teachers I am grateful, and I now strive to be that person for others.

The Performance Psychology Department at Genazzano has a long reputation of providing excellent educational and wellbeing support.

It is made up of an excellent team of professionals involved in supporting the welfare of all the students in the College through our whole school wellbeing program GenSTAR, as well as educational assessment and monitoring, case management, and of course, individual counselling. Such a well-resourced and comprehensive program is rare in schools and I am grateful to Genazzano for providing such support to our girls, and in providing me with the opportunity to be a part of its team, as I know we make a significant difference in the lives of our students.

Experience what makes Grange Hill so special Limited places are available in select year levels.

Open Mornings BOOKINGS: genazzano.vic.edu.au p: 8862 1207

ELC-Year 4 Wednesday 22 August 9.30 – 11.00am

Whole School Monday 22 October 9.30 – 11.00am

Discover the Early Learning Centre at Genazzano Limited places are available for our outstanding 3 and 4 year old co-educational programs in 2019.

Open Mornings BOOKINGS: genazzano.vic.edu.au p: 8862 1207

ELC-Year 4 Wednesday 22 August 9.30 – 11.00am

Whole School Monday 22 October 9.30 – 11.00am

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JULY 2018

Amanda McKenzie ELC Lead Teacher ELC | INTERVIEW BY AMANDA PRESTA

You have been an ELC Lead Teacher at Genazzano since the ELC’s inception in 2013. How have you seen the ELC evolve over the past five years?

I have seen a beautiful, caring culture established and developed amongst both staff and the families of the ELC. A steady growth in student numbers, increase of available materials, equipment and garden plantings, as well as a development of our reputation based on previous families’ positive words and recommendations.

What has been your most memorable moment as an early learning teacher?

The experience of working with an indigenous child who struggled with transition, self-regulation and integration. He had experienced some difficult home situations which made it hard to engage him in to the program. I was able to tap into his love of nature, in particular animals, and to work with his desperate desire to have a special friend. To see him progress and begin to trust was very rewarding, particularly when it was clearly a difficult thing for him to do.

What aspect of your role as a Genazzano ELC Lead Teacher are you most grateful for?

The opportunity to make a difference to the lives of both the children and their families. To be able to plan a program that will engage the children and meet their individual needs and interests.

How would you describe a typical day in the life of an ELC student?

Filled with fun and curiosity, making connections, becoming independent, contributing and sharing ideas and experiences.

Engaging in learning relationships.

Being surrounded by 20 very enthusiastic girls and boys on a daily basis can leave you quite overwhelmed by the end of the week.

How do you regroup and what are some of the things you enjoy doing when you get some ‘me time’?

I love yoga! Getting in touch with nature, such as bush walking or camping. Walking the dog or time in the garden. Spending time with family and friends, and going to the movies.

What do you admire most about the Genazzano community?

I love the compassion. It was one of the first things I noticed - the care for others.

It’s quite a daunting task choosing a school for your child. What’s your message to prospective families who may be considering an Early Learning Education for their son or daughter at Genazzano?

It is important that a family experience a genuine warmth and positive feeling from a learning environment. An institution that you know your child will be able to thrive in.

How do the three year olds interpret our College theme of ‘Giving Thanks with Grateful Hearts’? What are some activities that you have done to give meaning to the theme?

Three year olds have an understanding about being ‘thankful’, so we have focused on that word more and we have used this for inspiration at our prayer times to think of something to be thankful for in our prayers. The children have thought of their own prayers – such as thanking God for their families, friends and teachers.

JULY 2018

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GENAZZANO FCJ COLLEGE

Ann Rennie -

English, Texts & Traditions and RE Teacher SENIOR SCHOOL | INTERVIEW BY LARA ANTONELLI-LEORKE

This year you are celebrating a decade of teaching English, Texts & Traditions and Religious Education at Genazzano. What has been your most stirring memory from teaching so far?

I was delighted that one of my students was awarded a Premier’s Award for Texts & Traditions. She had worked really hard, done lots of practice essays and had gone beyond the material I had given her.

And one of the joys of teaching English is the delight in coming across beautiful student writing – things I wish I had written myself.

What aspect of your role as a Genazzano teacher are you most grateful for?

I can be myself in the classroom and can undertake the curriculum in my own way. I hope that a few of the things I say take seed – perhaps to flower years later. I believe honest encouragement is most important and helping students to establish a work ethic that prioritises persistence. It is also great to have other passionate teachers with whom to share ideas – and laughs! As something of an “old-school” teacher I am grateful for the help the technological whiz kids give me when I struggle with this foreign modality, but am equally grateful for those old-school virtues of punctuation, proofreading and polishing. Many girls know my favourite maxim about writing: Quality, not quantity!

and included. I admire the devotion of staff to the girls and their preparedness to go the extra mile. As an Alumna, I know that many women have a great love of the school and the example set by the FCJ Sisters who taught them.

Can you give an example of how the College shows its gratitude for its students, staff and community as a whole?

It is always good to see the students fundraise in support of the FCJ Missions overseas, as they grow in understanding that their privilege behoves responsibility for those less materially fortunate.

What are you most grateful to Genazzano for?

Lifelong friends. Nurturing of faith and ongoing companionship with FCJ Sisters. The quality and dedication of the staff who taught and encouraged me from Prep to Year 12, including Sister Maryrose Dennehy, fcJ, Sister Joan Cartlidge, fcJ, Miss Eileen Hiatt and Mrs Margaret Smith, amongst an array of talented and colourful staff.

My sisters and I always felt named and known, although some of my siblings would say they suffered unfair comparisons with a certain goody-two-shoes… We were inculcated with a sense that we could do anything post-school and that service to others was a way of living out the Gospel message.

What do you believe the students at Genazzano appreciate the most?

Is there a particular part of Genazzano’s history that resonates with you?

Honesty. Commitment. Deep knowledge of subject. Consistency.

Encouragement. Sincere interest in who they are, not just the marks they are getting. Listening to what they have to say as they grapple with growing up and the challenges, choices and chances that the world offers and how they will negotiate these with integrity.

I am interested in the resilience and tenacity of the pioneering FCJ Sisters, especially when money was really tight after the boom and then bust of Marvellous Melbourne. I always think how strong spiritually and emotionally they must have been when they arrived in the colony of Victoria at the suggestion of the Jesuits. I love the Wardell Building and especially the Stanislaus Room which is a timecapsule of the school in the early 20th century.

Your connection to the College spans not only your teaching, but as a parent of a past Genazzano student, as well as the daughter and sibling of alumnae as well. How has Genazzano become a part of the tapestry of your family?

Genazzano is home for me. More than simply a place of employment, I also bring my heart to school. My mother, Barbara Byrnes, started when she four years old in 1936, and my grandmother, Greta Byrnes, was the first honorary secretary alongside Nell Langlands, mother of Sister Helen Langlands, fcJ. The FCJ Sisters have always taken a great interest in my family, as we had five O’Neills at the school between 1963 and the middle 1980s; Ann, Fiona, Geraldine, Rosemary and Dominique. My mother was also President of the GMA in 1976.

What do you love and admire most about the Genazzano community?

There is a great deal of warmth in the Gen community and newcomers, parents, staff and students are made to feel welcome

What are your future hopes for the College?

That it will continue to provide an education of the mind, heart and soul so that Gen Girls will take on the world and give back to it in turn, as their forbears have done.

What does ‘Giving Thanks with Grateful Hearts’ mean to you and your family?

This means being grateful for the life we lead in Melbourne and the many opportunities it affords us. It means sharing gifts and talents and encouraging each other in our work and leisure. It means that we can laugh with and lean on each other. The German mystic Meister Eckhart said, “If the only prayer you say is thank you – that will be enough”, so that reminds me to look ahead with optimism and to make the most of my days. As a family we are grateful for the journey we are taking and the chances we have to shape that journey.

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Charles Watt Deputy Principal Faith & Mission EXECUTIVE TEAM | PROFILE

It’s a truth universally acknowledged that if you do something you enjoy immensely then time will fly. I’m sure our sense of time is ‘happy sensitive’ and this has been my 10 year experience here at Genazzano.

I have so many vivid and happy memories of students, staff and events that occurred a decade ago, that seem like only yesterday!

Memories filled with smiling faces, lots of laughter, beautiful music and art, physical prowess and intellectual engagement; experiences of girls asking the “why” question rather than merely accepting conventional responses and tired old formulations.

A key quality of Genazanno’s identity that I find so attractive is our Ignatian-FCJ character. I taught at Xavier in the 1980s where the Ignatian spirit was evident in the way the boys prayed, acted, learned and reached out to others, especially those most in need - it was their generosity of spirit that mirrors that of Genazzano. The past 10 years at Gen has seen a growing awareness of how Ignatius and the Jesuits were such a formative influence on Marie Madeleine d’Houët’s response to God, her vision of the world and the Society Faithful Companions of Jesus that she founded.

Every teacher at Gen would agree that when teaching is actively and positively entered into, then it is one of the most rewarding vocations in the world. Gilbert Highet wrote, “Love your students, love your subject and be utterly determined your student should learn”.

Every day in our College, teachers explore new ideas and ways of seeing things with young and searching minds - there is nothing better than that, which is why so many teachers possess a youthful mindset.

While ‘Giving Thanks with Grateful Hearts’ is our College theme this year, I believe this has been a reality in our school for at least the past decade. When I recently asked a student what they were looking forward to in the coming day, in a heartbeat she responded, “Learning new things with my friends and teachers”.

My experience as a teacher and Deputy Principal: Faith & Mission at Genazzano is that our girls are involved in all the College has to offer, and when they leave these College gates, will have so much to offer our precious world. I like to think that Marie Madeleine is smiling at such an outcome.

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Ross Shearer Head of Grounds GROUNDS | INTERVIEW BY LUCY COHEN

What is your career background and what brought you to Genazzano?

I left school when I was 16 and started a panel beating apprenticeship, which I left after 10 years for health reasons, as the dust was causing me to develop asthma. This got me thinking about what I really wanted to spend my life doing. I always liked the outdoors and gardening, as did my Dad - he used to grow a lot of veggies. So I decided to do an adult apprenticeship in gardening with the Melbourne City Council. I then got offered a role as Assistant Gardener at the Fitzroy Gardens and was soon offered my apprenticeship. After working as a gardener in a number of different places, including a cemetery, I thought I could combine my interest in cricket and get work in a school where I could work on the cricket field. So I undertook a course in Recreational Turf Management and soon after a role at Genazzano came up. Needless to say, I have been here ever since!

The grounds at Genazzano are a real highlight for our visitors.

What can you tell us about the history of the gardens?

I do know that there used to be Cyprus hedging along the side of the driveway and they were removed due to many dying off and replaced with the plain trees we have now. Also the large pines along Cotham Road have been replaced at least once and the existing trees are ‘second generation’ trees. When I started, Maintenance used to only be two little sheds with crush rock floors, no hot water, a small desk to work off, no lunch room or toilet. After the Madeleine Centre was built we had the opportunity to build the nice new area we now have, with bays to store mulch, a full office with lunchroom, showers and a proper chemical storage area.

The Genazzano rose is of real significance for the College.

Developed in the 1980s especially for the College, the rose is now given to the students as a gift when they leave at the end of Year 12.

What do you love most about the grounds? Do you have a favourite aspect?

I think the Circular Drive with the large established trees are really unique. It’s the neatness of the gardens, which are clearly wellmanicured, plus the garden is designed to complement the buildings with an English style we endeavor to constantly maintain.

I love the oval and enjoy preparing the grounds for the various sports we have at Gen. I also especially like the annuals that come up in spring.

This year’s College theme is, ‘Giving Thanks with Grateful Hearts’.

What are you most grateful for with regards to your team, your role, and the Gen community?

I am really grateful for my team who are all well-qualified and dedicated. We are all here for the love of the grounds and we all work well together, and that makes a big difference.

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I enjoy working at Gen and have been entrusted in my role to do my work and that is a big thing. Having the support to do something different and with a reasonable budget helps - a lot of schools don’t have that opportunity. Having good machinery and equipment to use makes the job that much more enjoyable. I’ve been lucky enough in my position as Head of Grounds to be able to have a say in the development of the grounds.

I often look out the window and am envious of you and your team working outside amongst nature. What is the best and the worst parts of working as a grounds team?

The worst would be working in the winter with the wind and the wet.

The best is spring and I love autumn. I really enjoy working in the outdoors.

What’s your secret to keeping the grounds looking so good? Is there any one thing or are there a number of factors?

Being organised and having a system in place are the most important things. You need to work to the seasons and we aim to have every area looking to a minimum of 80% of its capacity rather than aiming for 100%, as inevitably other areas will end up getting neglected.

Chipping away at the work is the approach. We have a meeting every day which is helpful especially because each of us are on our own for large parts of the day.

And finally, for any would-be landscapers, what advice can you give to growing a successful garden in Melbourne?

I think it’s just about doing regular maintenance. But also, regularly mulching, feeding and cultivation of the soils is equally important.

You can’t go for three weekends without touching your garden because then it’s much harder to get on top of it. It is like any job; you have to continually work at it.

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Grounds Staff. (L-R) Jake Alibaster, Brad Sutcliffe, Ross Shearer. Not pictured: Kym Esme.

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The Genazzano Rose given to students as a gift when they leave at the end of Year 12.

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Aerial shot of the Genazzano grounds in 1928.

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The Madeleine Centre for Music & the Performing Arts.

About the Interviewer LUCY COHEN | DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

Lucy started as Director of Development at Genazzano in April 2017. Prior to this she worked as Director of Community and Bequests Coordinator at Melbourne Girls Grammar.

She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts (VCA), Graduate Diploma in Education and a Diploma of Marketing, and is a graduate of the Committee for Melbourne’s Future Focus Group.

Lucy notes the three main points of difference for Genazzano as: the passionate and engaged community, the outstanding co-curricular offerings and spectacular grounds. This on top of the excellent VCE results and highly qualified staff make Genazzano one of Australia’s leading all girls’ Catholic schools.

With her husband, Mark, Lucy has two children William (4yrs) and Poppy (6yrs). On what she is most grateful for, Lucy says “working with people who are passionate about the education of girls, and how this can impact the future for women.”

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Philanthropy at Genazzano LUCY COHEN | DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

Since Genazzano FCJ College opened its doors 129 years ago in 1889, a spirit of service and generosity has flourished.

Many members within the College and in the wider community have benefitted from the philanthropic support of the community, either through building projects, resources or through a scholarship to attend Genazzano. Philanthropy is truly ingrained in the Genazzano spirit. Indeed, our Madeleine Centre for Music and the Performing Arts was realised through a concerted and sustained fundraising effort, providing excellent facilities to enable Gen girls to be their best.

At this time of year, we ask you to continue your generosity in support of the 2018 Annual Appeal. Funds raised from the Annual Appeal enable us to support a number of Academic and Music Scholarships, invest towards the much needed 2020 Masterplan and purchase brand new resources for the College Library.

I encourage you to join me in making a donation to the 2018 Annual Appeal to help build a better future for all students. Simply log on to www.genazzano-donations.com to make a donation online. Through either the Building, Library or Scholarship Fund, any donation small or large that you give can make a meaningful difference. With your support we can continue to provide for Gen girls now and into the future. I thank you in anticipation for your generosity and your continued support of the College.

To make a donation online log-on to: www.genazzano-donations.com

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We invite you to experience the Genazzano Senior School in action.

Open Mornings Years 5-12 Thursday 26 July 9.30 – 11.00am

Whole School Monday 22 October 9.30 – 11.00am

• Our Learning and Teaching programs reflect evidence based research delivering outstanding academic results in the top 5% of the state • We are home to an outstanding co-curricular program, comprising over 130 opportunities

Tuesday 20 March • Our innovative Performance Psychology Department employs world’s best practice to promote student wellness, resilience and development 5.30pm - 7pm • The Companionship Program, inspired by the FCJ heritage, invites our students to go beyond their comfort zone to spend time with members of the community who need support

SELECTED PLACES AVAILABLE FOR 2019 BOOKINGS: genazzano.vic.edu.au p: 8862 1207

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Celebrating Our Connections The O’Callaghan Family – Celebrating a Century of History at Genazzano FEATURE | INTRODUCTION BY CLAIRE O’CALLAGHAN (1953)

I commenced as a Junior Boarder at Genazzano in 1947 and graduated in 1953. The school in those days was much smaller, with around 300 students, 100 of which were Boarders. The FCJ Sisters staffed the school; we had very few lay teachers. Over the years the student numbers increased significantly, and the Junior School was set up at Grange Hill to free up more space in the Senior School.

In the early 1980s, Sr Margaret Mary Kennedy, fcJ was appointed Principal and she created many initiatives for the benefit of the students, parents and Old Girls’ Association (OGA).

We had a disciplined routine environment and academic excellence was encouraged; we had a wide curriculum in social education, including elocution, dancing classes and PE. All aspects of music were encouraged, especially in drama, choral and orchestral. School concerts and productions were held each year, which our parents would attend. Sports were particularly important for boarders; along with day students we competed against other schools in tennis, basketball and softball. There were three houses: Cardinal, Silver and Blue. Competition sports days were a very big part of our agenda.

As the mother of four daughters, all of whom attended Genazzano from Prep to Year 12, I became involved with the Mothers’ Association, working in the tuck shop and helping to organise various social functions. In 1981, I was chair of the Mothers’ Committee and really enjoyed the involvement with all the mothers. In 1989 the College celebrated its Centenary Year and I was asked to chair the Centenary Committee with representatives from all facets of the school community. It was a great celebratory year as we gave thanks to the FCJ Sisters and the entire school community for the wonderful story of Genazzano. Major improvements were constructed including, Centenary Hall, the swimming pool, indoor Sports Centre and Performing Arts Centre.

When Sr Margaret Mary Kennedy, fcJ retired after many successful years, the FCJ Sisters appointed the first lay Principal, Mrs Patricia Fitzgerald.

I joined the OGA Committee in 1966 and remained a member into the 1990s. We were very fortunate to have a number of senior members who led us and I was privileged to become the President in 1968 and 1976. We had a very active committee and as a group we were there to support the FCJ Sisters and past students, and those aims still continue today. There was an annual OGA Dinner, a Genazzano Debutante Ball, Genazzano Day and Memorial Mass. We raised funds for the missions and in later years commenced the Genazzano Breakfast. We also set up a Boarding Scholarship and Book Bursaries.

For many years I was convenor of the Balls and helped train the Debutantes. Many of my friendships made through these times still continue to this day and we are all still involved in various fundraising activities.

I have been fortunate to have our four daughters educated at Genazzano, all of whom have succeeded in their own careers, and with their brother David, have provided us with 14 beautiful grandchildren.

I strongly support Catholic Education for women, to equip them with the necessary skills to be leaders in the community, demonstrating those values instilled in them by the College.

I am delighted that we now have the fourth generation of our family at Genazzano - my granddaughter Lily is now a part of my old alma mater, ‘Fidelis’. With Lily set to graduate in 2020, and my husband Barry’s mother, Margaret Goodwill, a Gen girl who commenced her time at the College in 1919, our family will be celebrating over a century’s connection with Genazzano – a legacy we are extremely proud and happy to be a part of.

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Lily Gilmour (Year 10) Your great grandmother, grandmother, mother and three aunties all attended Genazzano, spanning nearly 100 years of history.

What does your family connection to Genazzano mean to you?

My family connection to Genazzano meant that I had always felt like a part of Gen even before I attended. I feel very grateful to be able to attend the school that the women of my family attended before me.

What does being a ‘Gen Girl’ mean to you?

Being a ‘Gen Girl’ to me is the best part about going to Genazzano.

One of my favourite things about the College is my friends and peers; we are all so unique from one another and contribute towards creating such a welcoming and kind school.

Is there a particular teacher that you are grateful for at Genazzano and why?

One teacher I am most grateful for is Ms Pang. She was my Maths teacher and always challenged me. Not only is she very smart and good at teaching Maths, she is always caring and understanding of students’ needs.

What does ‘Giving Thanks with Grateful Hearts’ mean to you?

And what are you most grateful for?

It means more to me than just gratitude.

Giving thanks with grateful hearts is about showing a deeper appreciation for others.

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Megan Gilmour (O’Callaghan, 1989) What year did you commence at Genazzano and how did you feel about attending the same school that your mother went to?

I commenced my schooling at Genazzano in 1976 as a Prep Student.

I remember walking into the College with my three older sisters and Mum, and was so excited to be at the same school that they had all attended. My Dad, Barry O’Callaghan, also attended in 1940 for a Term, and his mother (my grandmother), Margaret O’Callaghan (Goodwill) attended in the 1920s.

Can you take us through your career progression after you graduated Genazzano in 1989?

I studied Primary School Teaching at Deakin University, completing a Bachelor of Education.

In 1993 I went to America and worked as a Counsellor at Camp America in Pennsylvania. To this day, it was one of the most rewarding experiences. I worked with 180 children, all with special needs and the majority of the children had ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). I then returned to the UK where I lived and worked as a Primary School Teacher. I came home to Melbourne in 1997 and started my first full time position as a Year 3 teacher at Malvern Primary School, where I taught for seven years.

I married Matthew Gilmour in 2001 and we had our first child, Lily, in 2002. I went back to teaching part time for 18 months before having twin boys, Jack and Paddy, in 2004. We moved to Sydney in 2006 for four years where we had our fourth child, Charlie, in 2008. We returned to Melbourne at the end of 2009 and live in Kew East. After teaching in the State Education System for many years, I transferred into the Catholic Education System, where I have remained. I taught at St Anne’s in Kew East for nine years and have recently moved this year to St Joseph’s in Hawthorn.

We have many outstanding teachers at Genazzano, can you recall a particular teacher that you were grateful for during your time at Genazzano?

Margaret Horton, who is now the Deputy Principal at MLC. Marg truly believed in me; I remember the moment she arrived at Genazzano, she made an impact straight away. Every student admired her. I had a few challenges in my Middle Years at Genazzano and she was constantly there to support me. She always had ‘my back’ - Marg is the reason that I am a teacher today. We have remained close friends, and I hope that I can have a similar impact on the students I’ve taught.

Why do you think it’s important to stay connected to Genazzano?

The friendships, networks and the sharing of the same values.

The first class education and, in particular, the always present and essential emphasis on pastoral care.

Why do you think girls’ education is important and why are you grateful that you attended an all girls’ school?

Girls’ education is equally as important as boys’ education. There is always a continuing debate about the pros and cons of the two systems. My own view is that generally most girls are more inclined to really involve themselves in classroom activities and discussions in the absence of boys.

Many people, including my parent’s friendship groups, continually talk about the extraordinarily close friendships they shared, which my Gen friends and I continue to enjoy to this day.

Why was it important that your daughter Lily follow in yours and your mother’s footsteps in becoming a ‘Gen Girl’?

I felt so blessed to be a ‘Gen Girl’. For a long time Mum always talked about the connections that she had with the girls she had met throughout her journey at Genazzano. Not only as a student, but also as a parent. I had been so lucky to make many wonderful friendships with Gen girls in various year levels and had so many great experiences and opportunities given to me at Genazzano.

My daughter Lily is now making the most of her opportunities at the College.

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Claire O’Callaghan with granddaughter, Lily.

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The O’Callaghan women. Fiona Townsing, Megan Gilmour, Claire O’Callaghan and Lily Gilmour.

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The O’Callaghan sisters in 1975.

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Fiona Townsing (O’Callaghan, 1983) What year did you commence at Genazzano and how did you feel about attending the same school that your mother went to?

I commenced at Genazzano Convent, as it was known then, as a Prep in 1970. I have many great memories from my time at Genazzano, which culminated in me being the only O’Callaghan daughter to get married at the College, with the inclusion of the wonderful Genazzano choir under the guidance of Mary Donoghue performing at the ceremony. I was very happy that Mum chose to send me to the same school she attended, as she also enjoyed wonderful experiences and opportunities, and to be exposed to the many attributes that Genazzano offers. It was only as my years progressed at Genazzano that I came to realise the wonderful dedication and contribution Mum made to the College, and I especially remember the many hours she put in for the Debutante Ball year after year.

Can you take us through your career progression after you graduated Genazzano in 1983?

What was your most memorable moment as a Genazzano student?

So many memorable moments, but those that remain with me include: being a very active member of school sporting achievements, representing the College throughout the years in athletics, netball, swimming, volleyball, tennis (including winning the Dr Rowan’s Tennis Cup), and the Year 10 trip to the Great Barrier Reef with my close school friends.

We have many outstanding teachers at Genazzano, can you recall a teacher that you were grateful for during your time at Genazzano?

Mary Donoghue was an amazing mentor, teacher and musical conductor. I had so many years involved in music at Genazzano with Mary and I’m sure this was due to her nurturing yet firm teachings and her ability to involve and provide so many students with an exceptional experience in the many years Genazzano dominated the musical arena.

After I graduated I took a year off to work and study, then commenced General Nursing at St Vincent’s Hospital in 1984, where I remained until 2002. Following two years of travelling, I commenced midwifery at Monash Medical Centre in 2004. Genazzano provided me with the drive to do my best which was evident when I was Dux in the state for my Midwifery exams. Following midwifery, I worked at Monash Medical Centre in the Labour Ward for a number of years and then took the opportunity to manage vulnerable and less fortunate young pregnant women. After three years I was offered the opportunity to manage the Young Women’s Program at the Royal Women’s Hospital, which I did for some 10 years. I married my husband Ian, three children followed and then I worked in Project Management for seven years whilst the children were very young. In recent years I completed my Master of Nursing in Child Family, Community and Nursing and have returned to my original passion of working with and managing young families, including those who face vulnerability, in Maternal Child Health.

Why do you think it’s important to stay connected to Genazzano and what advice would you give to other Alumnae looking to stay connected or reconnect with the College?

What have been your major life and career achievements so far?

My experience at Genazzano was extremely positive and I value the opportunity that comes with such a high level of education and extracurricular options. Evidence proves that girls learn differently from boys and I strongly believe that girls’ schools know how to educate, motivate and empower young women to be engaged, strive for opportunities and be confident in their goals, creating well-educated and happy young women.

Difficult to say, but I guess being part of a very supportive family that encouraged me to be the best person I could be and to inspire me to achieve my dreams. To be equipped with amazing role models by my parents and to see many of these attributes in my own children. I am blessed that I have my amazing husband and three children, our health, and that we live in a safe, supportive and valued society. In terms of career highlights, it has been creating a program that provided young women with the skills, confidence and desire to navigate their own life and to do this in a positive, supportive environment and to empower others who are less fortunate to seek a better way forward. My motto has always been to help those less fortunate, to use the skills and experience I am lucky enough to possess to make their life and the life of their families better. Although I have had a variety of management positions I found completing my masters and venturing into Child, Family and Community an extremely rewarding and challenging vocation.

I would strongly recommend those who attended Gen to remain involved and connected through the Alumnae Association and the GenUnite online network that recently launched. I still have very fond memories as I drive past Genazzano and look at the magnificent school it has become. I appreciate the opportunity to read GenNarrations and hear the many exciting initiatives and developments that are always advancing the life of Genazzano girls.

When I left school and commenced nursing I lost contact with many of my school friends due to shift work but in recent times the Alumnae Association and Development Department have made such a great effort to reconnect past students.

Why do you think girls’ education is important and why are you grateful that you attended an all girls’ school?

What do you admire most about your mother’s commitment to the Genazzano College community?

The wonderful friends Mum has made throughout her years working at Genazzano. Mum thrives on making life better for everyone around her; she is an inspiration to myself and our children, and a wonderful role model for anyone who has had the opportunity of working with her. She is an advocate for all mothers to become involved in an inclusive school community; she empowers others to strive to be their best for the benefit of their children. Mum has been instrumental in building the community that Genazzano has now become.

Fiona Townsing’s wedding at Genazzano in 1998.

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Jenny Tozer (O’Callaghan, 1981) Can you take us through your career progression after you graduated Genazzano in 1981?

Why do you think girls’ education is important and why are you grateful that you attended an all girls’ school?

I studied Economics & Commerce at Melbourne University with honours, graduating in 1985. I left Melbourne in November 1985 to travel for three months in Europe - I am still here over three decades on. In 1986-1990 I worked as a financial analyst in London for stock broker, McIntosh Hamson Hoare Govett. 1990-1991 I did an MBA at IMD Business School in Switzerland. 1992-1999 I worked as a management consultant in financial services with an American firm, Booz Allen & Hamilton living in London, New York, Switzerland and Hong Kong. I married my British husband in 1992 and we have three children - James (24yrs), Edward (22yrs) and Greta (20yrs). 20012008 we returned to London and I set up my own business to provide financial advice for women. In 2005, we moved to our current family home on the Wiltshire/Dorset border. In 2008, I merged my business into a joint partnership with LGT Vestra Wealth, as Senior Partner and Chair of the firm’s Investment Committee - a title I still hold today.

Education is fundamental to personal, professional and emotional development irrespective of gender, age, creed or colour. As a pupil and a parent of a child who also attended an all girls’ convent in the UK (St Mary’s Ascot), I think single sex schools (for teenage years in particular) allow girls to explore their strengths and face challenges in a nurturing and focused environment. It’s important to build self confidence in these years. It provides a solid foundation for progressing through life. There is less distraction in class and less inhibition to test the boundaries. The data supports this - all girls’ school results (at least in the UK) are significantly better, especially in STEM subjects, than their co-ed counterparts. The same is true for single sex boys’ schools. Unlike in Melbourne, in the UK, it is the exception, not the rule, to attend a single sex school. However the top 10 schools in the results league tables are predominantly single sex schools.

What has been your major life and career achievement so far?

For all of the above reasons I am grateful that I attended an all girls’ school. But it was in 1982, when I arrived at Melbourne University to study Economics, that I realised my school did not offer the same breadth of subject choice as my fellow male students. At that point, Genazzano did not teach economics, accounting, business or further maths.

Parenting three wonderful children, establishing a strong and supportive community abroad, and building/growing my own business.

What was your most memorable moment as a Genazzano student?

The delicious breakfast after our First Holy Communion. Making cubby houses in the Paddock (now the sports track). The many hours training at Olympic Park for athletics.

What do you admire most about your mother’s commitment to the Genazzano College community?

Her boundless energy and determination to drive projects to a successful conclusion. Her sense of inclusion and commitment to team building. I recall many weekday evenings of committee meetings and social gatherings for both my parents at Genazzano and Xavier.

We have many outstanding teachers at Genazzano, can you recall a particular teacher that you were grateful for during your time at Genazzano?

Mrs Anne Magee who brought English Literature to life. I still recall her passion and joy at exploring the works of Margaret Drabble, Graham Greene and D. H. Lawrence.

If girls’ schools are to be successful, they must offer excellence across an equal range of subjects, in both breadth and depth – which is now the case, as Genazzano propels forward with increasing student participation and encouragement in STEM subjects.

Why do you think it’s important to stay connected to Genazzano and what advice would you give to other Alumnae looking to stay connected or reconnect with the College?

As with many communities one gets out as much as one puts in. Thus you should try be an active participant of the College community, which has recently been made easier with access to online portal, GenUnite.

Jenny Tozer (O’Callaghan, 1981).

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Sally Ann Howe (O’Callaghan, 1980) What year did you commence at Genazzano and how did you feel about attending the same school that your mother went to?

I commenced in Prep at Grange Hill in 1968 and knew it was where Mum had attended school and boarded from the age of six!

Can you take us through your career progression after you graduated from Genazzano in 1980?

Following Year 12, I deferred an Arts/Law degree and chose to take up an offer at St Vincent’s Hospital in 1981 to commence Nursing. I graduated from St. Vincent’s in 1984 then worked at Cabrini in the mid-80s as a graduate nurse before travelling and working overseas for 18 months. On return to Australia I undertook a Post Graduate course in Peri-Operative Nursing back at St Vincent’s, staying there for three years before accepting a role back at Cabrini Health in 1990. This was a new strategy in Australian private healthcare and I remained in that role for six years, learning the business and commercial aspects of a privately operated Not For Profit faith-based health service, whilst commencing governance and other industry leadership roles and initiatives.

I remained at Cabrini and moved into a more strategic role across the organisation as Director of Integrated Care, responsible for leading and developing ambulatory services, a first in private health in Victoria. Now as Director of Business & Service Development, I oversee strategic and collaborative leadership with a broad range of stakeholder interests, commercialising strategic ambulatory and community partnerships in the context of a privately funded NFP healthcare business. I have completed post graduate qualifications in health, governance and business management with broad NFP and cross sectorial experience. I currently hold Non-Executive Director roles and am a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

What has been your major life and career achievement so far?

My life achievement thus far, shared jointly with my husband Nick, has been the honour of raising two very thoughtful and accomplished daughters, Georgie and Ellie. After graduating from secondary school in Melbourne, both travelled to the U.S. on Rowing Scholarships to study a four year Undergraduate Degree – Georgie at Princeton University and Ellie at the University of California Berkeley.

My career highlights revolve around having had the opportunity to diversify my executive skills, whilst at the same time contributing at a governance level to meaningful stewardship and the importance of ethical decision making and leading culture.

Sally Ann Howe (O’Callaghan, 1980).

We have many outstanding teachers at Genazzano, can you recall a particular teacher that you were grateful for during your time at Genazzano?

I had many great teachers, however Ann McGee was my Year 12 English and Literature teacher – she was so inspiring.

Why do you think it’s important to stay connected to Genazzano and what advice would you give to other Alumnae looking to stay connected or reconnect with the College?

Use all the College marketing and distribution channels available to you and stay in touch, such as the Genazzano platform for Alumnae called GenUnite.

Why do you think girls’ education is important and why are you grateful that you attended an all girls’ school?

Girls’ education is, and always has been, important.

It is pleasing to see that school curriculums and the broader education agenda now actively promote ethical, passionate and ambitious women of action who can pave the way and pioneer for future female leaders in and out of the classroom.

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Joanna Roache -

Boarding Alumna & College Council Member BOARDING | INTERVIEW BY ANDRIYANI MILLIE

Joanna Roache (2002) is a Genazzano Boarding Alumna and Structural Engineer/ Project Manager at AECOM (an American multi-national engineering firm). Joanna also recently became the youngest member on College Council.

As Year 11 students, my peers and I are currently figuring out what we want to do in the future. Did you have a solid idea of what you wanted to be before graduating from Genazzano?

Not at all! I just followed the path of which subjects I enjoyed most (being Maths and Physics) which led to my interest in Engineering. I had no idea of all the career options and opportunities that a degree in Engineering would provide me. My advice would be to try not to stress too much about your future career; if you follow your interests and work hard, it will all come together.

Who and what were your inspirations to become an Engineer?

After completing my Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) and Bachelor of Arts Degree at Melbourne University, I chose to pursue a career as a Structural Engineer as this was the part of my degree I enjoyed the most. I’m very fortunate to have some amazing role models (both female and male) at AECOM who have encouraged and inspired me to develop my career as a Structural Engineer and Project Manager.

What skills developed at Genazzano have helped you in your career?

Being a Gen Girl certainly instilled in me a desire to achieve success in my chosen career and to work hard to do so. In addition, the experience gained as a boarder is such an advantage in life, helping you develop independence, resilience and tolerance - making you ready to take on the world!

What challenges did you face in what is often seen as a maledominated work environment and how did you overcome them to become Principal Engineer at AECOM? While the statistics show a large imbalance in my profession (approx.

13% of engineers in Australia are women), I have personally found it an advantage to be a female in a male-dominated work environment.

People certainly remember you when you’re the only female in a meeting, and you provide diverse viewpoints and skillsets which are highly sought after.

What do you love most about your work?

I love being involved in iconic Australian infrastructure projects that improve accessibility, link communities and create a better world in which to work and live. It is extremely satisfying to be able to drive over a bridge that you designed or be part of a team working on some of Victoria’s current ‘Big Build’ projects such as, the Melbourne Metro Tunnel and the West Gate Tunnel.

Congratulations on becoming a member of the Genazzano College Council! What is your vision in regards to constantly providing opportunities to help girls succeed in their future careers?

Thanks! I think the key to success is building a well-rounded set of skills that are not just based on your academic abilities. Whether it’s the leadership skills you develop as a Prefect, the teamwork skills you learn from playing sport, or the awareness of Social Justice you gain from volunteering, these attributes are so important in helping you achieve your full potential in your career.

The Co-curricular Program that Genazzano offers is so extensive and I think it is a key pillar to helping girls succeed in their future careers.

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About the Interviewer ADRIYANI MILLIE | YEAR 11 BOARDER

What do you think about the opportunities given to girls to start their careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM)? Is there enough accessibility for girls who are considering a career in STEM? I think that the opportunities for careers in STEM are there, but it is probably the visibility and awareness of these careers that are the challenges. The best way to improve this is by showing girls the wonderful female role models who are enjoying challenging and rewarding careers in STEM. This will allow girls to make informed decisions about their future careers and determine if STEM is a subject area they might enjoy pursuing in a professional capacity.

You graduated from Genazzano as a boarder in 2002. What are your favourite memories of your time at the College and in the Boarding House?

My favourite memories are of the silly things we used to get up to at the Boarding House – playing tricks on our Boarding Mistress, staying up late talking with roommates, prank calling other school’s Boarding Houses (we had payphones back then…) generally just spending time together. At the College, I loved being a part of the sporting teams and choirs, as well as an inclusive and supportive community that provided amazing teachers and resources for me to succeed academically.

This year’s College theme is ‘Giving Thanks with Grateful Hearts’. What are you most grateful for when it comes to Genazzano and to whom are you grateful?

I was very fortunate to receive a scholarship to Genazzano for which I am very thankful, as that opportunity has set me up for success in life both professionally and personally. I am so grateful for the lifelong friends I made at Gen – despite it being 16 years since we graduated and living all over the country, we still love any time we spend together.

Andriyani Millie is a Year 11 Boarder, who hails from Brunei Darussalam. She started at Genazzano in Year 9, with an established history of family that had previously attended the College - three of her great aunts are alumnae and interestingly, her grandfather also attended in the early 1940s. Andriyani is interested in sport, music, art, literature, and is grateful that Genazzano has given her the opportunity to develop in all of those diverse endeavours.

Andriyani has enjoyed many wonderful achievements throughout her time at Genazzano, including the Saturday Netball Coaches Award (2016), 2016 Citizenship Award (for her contribution to school life), Social Justice Representative (2017), second place at the Victorian Royal Art Show (2017), member of the winning Genazzano swim teams in both Division 2 GSV Competition (2017) and Centenary Swim Meet (2017 & 2018), Year 11 Swim Captain (2018), and representing the Genazzano Boarding House at the 2018 Victorian Boarding conference held in Ballarat.

“Genazzano has provided me with the opportunity to grow and learn in a spiritual environment. I am grateful for the opportunities to develop many leadership skills and pursue social justice in the community. I am also thankful for the wonderful Music Program and opportunities to compete in swimming and train within fantastic sporting facilities. I am eternally grateful for the Genazzano teachers who go beyond all expectations to help us in our schooling, and the warm and supportive boarding environment and staff that have helped me gain the confidence to live away from my family.”

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Sophie McGrath -

Alumnae Committee Member ALUMNAE | INTERVIEW BY AMANDA PRESTA

Sophie McGrath is a Genazzano Alumna and freelance publicist who owns her own Public Relations firm based in Melbourne, Sophie McGrath PR. You commenced as a student in Year 4 in 1999, and graduated Year 12 in 2007. You then returned to join the Alumnae Association Committee in 2016. What made you return to the College?

Aside from your role on the Alumnae Committee, you are a publicist with your own self-named PR company. How did you get into this industry and what is your advice for students who are keen to pursue a career in this space?

I’ve always been passionate about Genazzano and wanted to join the Alumnae Association. I decided to join the committee around the time of starting my own business as it allowed me the flexibility to be more involved with the College.

My sister is News Chief of Staff at Nine Network News and often gets invited to fancy events around Melbourne, so it was at one of these events that I realised I wanted to do PR & Events as a job (without really knowing what it was at the time!). I landed my first internship at a prestigious public relations agency while at university and was granted a job as soon as my honours year was over. My advice for students is to start early and intern everywhere including agencies, in-house and for freelancers. You might be interning somewhere at the right time and there could be a job opening, but in the meantime soak up the learning experiences and dive straight into the crazy and fun world of publicity and events!

Can you please explain a little about your role with the Alumnae Association and what you are hoping to achieve as a committee this year?

I became a committee member for two reasons: 1. I’m passionate about Genazzano and all that it gave me when I was at school and I wanted to give back to the College.

2. I want to offer up my skills as an event planner and create some extraordinary events that celebrate Alumnae and inspire current students.

After graduating from Genazzano you began your tertiary education at Monash University. What did you go on to study there?

I studied a Bachelor of Arts. I didn’t want to do something too specific as I was still finding out exactly what I wanted to do and had always loved English, History and Literature at school so continued on with those subjects at university. I majored in History and International Studies with a minor in Italian Language and was granted an honours year, whereby I wrote a thesis concentrating on the Italian Renaissance era in Florence, specifically the world of Margherita Datini. I had a wonderful time at Monash University and did a semester at its Prato facility on the outskirts of Florence, Italy.

What has been your major career achievement so far?

Taking the leap and creating my own successful business will always be my greatest achievement. It’s a hard thing to do but I’m glad I did it and I love the freedom it offers. I’ve managed to create a business that suits my lifestyle.

What is your most memorable moment as a student at Genazzano?

There are so many wonderful memories! Best ones include being a part of the International Sporting Tour in 2004, becoming School Vice-Captain in 2007 (and also the last Vice Captain!), afternoons playing GSV sport, school camps, dance classes and GenDay House dancing competitions.

GIVING THANKS WITH GRATEFUL HEARTS

We have many outstanding teachers at Genazzano; can you recall a particular teacher that you were grateful for in your time at Genazzano?

Mrs. Lila McInerney - she was a wonderful, warm and caring teacher and I always appreciated her guidance as I took up her lunchtime with a chat in her office – sorry Lila!

Why do you think it’s important to stay connected to Genazzano and what advice would you give to other Alumnae looking to stay connected or reconnect with the College?

It’s so important. I knew us Gen girls were a talented bunch but now that I’m involved in the committee and researching past students for upcoming events, I now see that so many Gen girls are out there succeeding in their chosen fields and they need to be celebrated and inspire the next generation of Gen girls.

We have a wonderful new platform, which launched late last year called GenUnite. It’s an online communication tool that makes connecting with Alumnae from all years so easy. It’s great from a professional point of view too and to connect with Alumnae in your city, whether it be Melbourne or overseas.

Plus, there’s always room for more on the Alumnae Association Committee, we’d love more members!

Why do you think girls’ education is important and why are you grateful that you commenced at Genazzano in the Junior School?

I’m so grateful that I attended Genazzano from a young age; let’s just say I was a dreamer and needed extra care and guidance and that’s what Genazzano gave me. I was a very shy young girl and being at Genazzano gave me confidence and shaped me into the person I am today. Girls’ education is so important as it’s a very supportive environment and tight-knit community enabling girls to gain confidence in themselves and to grow and learn. Also, my best friends are all past Gen girls; the school gave me friends for life!

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About the Interviewer AMANDA PRESTA (CASABENE, 2002) | DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS COORDINATOR

After graduating from Genazzano in 2002, Amanda studied a Bachelor of Business at La Trobe University, majoring in Human Resource Management. She spent many years working in Graduate Recruitment Management for several multinational companies including Ford Motor Company, Rio Tinto and L’Oreal Australia prior to her career change in 2011 where she took up the role of Alumnae Relations Manager at Genazzano.

After starting a family in 2013, with her husband Robert, and with the arrival of her first daughter Vienna (who is now a ‘Gen Girl’ in ELC 4), and then with the arrival of Aria in 2015, Amanda now works in a part-time capacity on Alumnae projects within the Development Office.

In her time at Gen she has worked across many areas in Alumnae Relations & Communications including the organisation of reunions and events, website redevelopment, social media management, project management of GenNarrations, as well as the start-up of an Alumnae & Friends Playgroup.

Amanda is grateful to the numerous Alumnae across many generations that she has built great rapport with, and credits the College’s new online platform, GenUnite, as an innovative tool to keep Alumnae engaged in a way that hasn’t previously been possible. She encourages all Alumnae to sign up and stay connected with the latest news: www.genunite.org

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Franca Henger -

Genazzano Mothers’ Association GMA - TREASURER | PROFILE

Franca Henger is the Treasurer of the Genazzano Mothers’ Association and current parent of a Genazzano student.

Franca is currently working in Pastoral Care and has qualifications in Accounting, Banking & Finance and Film & TV Production.

As the Treasurer of the GMA since 2016, what aspect of your role are you most grateful for?

Can you give an example of how the College shows its gratitude for its students, staff and community as a whole?

I am most grateful for the guidance and friendship I have found working together with the various Committee members and Finance staff from the College.

One of the ways the College shows its spirit of gratitude to the staff and students is by celebrating ‘Genazzano Day’. My daughter always comes home having thoroughly enjoyed that day. I like that the College also celebrates and honours past students through the Outstanding Alumnae Awards. The College also shows it’s gratitude to all volunteers in the community by holding a special function to acknowledge them at the end of the year.

What has been your most memorable moment in this position?

My most memorable moment in this position has been the opportunity to raise funds for both the College and the FCJ Sisters, so that they can continue their important work.

What are you most grateful to Genazzano for?

Your connection to the College spans not only your support and expertise within the GMA, but as a parent of a current Genazzano student. How has Genazzano become a part of the tapestry of your family?

From an educational perspective, I am grateful that the College offers an opportunity for students to push themselves beyond what they think they can achieve.

Genazzano is a reflection of our family values including faith, mercy, thanksgiving and social justice. Our daughter, Adele, has demonstrated that she is keen to uphold these values in the journey of her own life.

Is there a favourite College event you enjoy attending year in year out?

What do you love and admire most about the Genazzano community?

The Genazzano community is a warm and generous-spirited community where diversity is embraced and all our talents and gifts (including the parents) are allowed to flourish.

Just look at the collection of parents that assist throughout the year, who have become approachable, familiar faces for both other parents and staff alike.

I enjoy attending two events. GenWelcomes is a wonderful night and an event not to be missed. I also enjoy the College Swimming Carnival because it is fun, colourful and competitive. Go Douglas!

What does Giving Thanks with Grateful Hearts’ mean to you and your family?

This to me means that I can look at all the gifts I have been given in life and feel truly blessed. I don’t dwell on the negatives because life is too short. My husband and I have raised our three cheery children to live life with a grateful heart.

I give thanks for a happy and healthy family. I give thanks that they are as supportive of me as I am of them. They fill my heart with love and for that I am forever grateful. I also give thanks for the difficult times in my life, which help me to truly appreciate when the good times come.

GIVING THANKS WITH GRATEFUL HEARTS

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JULY 2018

Jerome Joseph Genazzano Fathers’ Association GFA - VICE PRESIDENT | PROFILE

Jerome Joseph is the Vice President College Support of the Genazzano Fathers’ Association. He is a current parent of a Genazzano student and husband of fashion designer, Sonia Cappellazzo. Jerome works as a Managing Partner at Sunset Capital Partners, is the Founder & Director of Foodservice and Grace Park Hawthorn Events, and is a Board Member of St Vincent’s Hospital Foundation.

How many years have you been Vice President College Support of the GFA?

What do you love and admire most about the Genazzano community?

This is now my second time around on the GFA - I committed to the role of VP College Support 2013-2015, 2017 - Present. I also provide support to the College through my involvement as a Board Member of the St Vincent’s Hospital Foundation - the Foundation is, and will continue to be, a supporter of the Genazzano Institute of Learning & Brain Sciences.

I admire the inclusive nature of the entire community. We have friends today that we met when our daughter was in Year 3, and we continue to have strong relationships with. On each occasion where Alessandra may try something new, the staff and families we meet always make us feel extremely welcome.

What aspect of your role within the GFA are you most grateful for?

I think it was important for my daughter, Alessandra, to see her father participate in her education on a face-to-face level and I believe being involved with the GFA allows me to display this to her. In addition, it is important we have parent engagement within the school environment and being involved in the GFA allows me to do this. My wife and I have been involved within the GFA and GMA respectively, and again I am grateful that we can display our involvement with our daughter’s education journey this way.

What has been your most memorable moment as part of the GFA? I have had a number of memorable moments which include being part of the Fathers’ Steps project, the GenWelcomes event, and the Gen Fathers Thank You BBQ – an event to thank the Dads of Genazzano for their efforts and volunteering their valued time for certain occasions throughout the year.

Your connection to the College spans not only your support and expertise within the GFA, but as a parent of a current Genazzano student. How has Genazzano become a part of the tapestry of your family?

Our daughter has been at Gen since Year 3, and she is now in Year 9. This will be our seventh year as a Gen family so the school and its culture and ethos is well entrenched within my family.

What initially made you and your wife Sonia choose Genazzano for your daughter Alessandra?

We spent some time looking for the right education for Alessandra and I must say, Sonia and I felt extremely comfortable when we first met with the Head of the Junior School; we felt that our daughter’s interests were to be front of mind by the College at all occasions.

The other important aspect of choosing Gen was around its Catholic mission and the importance for our family to further drive our faith and what it stands for.

Can you give an example of how the College shows its gratitude for its students, staff and community as a whole?

The entire College - from staff, admin, leadership and council - all have the one goal to ensure our girls have the best opportunity to succeed in life. The College shows its gratitude by ensuring they are providing a wholesome and well-rounded education that will ensure the best outcomes for our future leaders.

What are you most grateful to Genazzano for?

I am grateful to Gen for aiding in the development of Alessandra.

The level of empathy, caring and understanding of others that she has is in part due to the interactions she has at Gen, as well as the development by staff of Alessandra as a well-grounded individual.

Is there a favourite College event you enjoy attending year in year out, and why?

I cannot go past GenWelcomes. The event is a great start to the New Year. We have the opportunity to see friends and families that we may not have been able to see over the break and the atmosphere on the night is one of inclusion and respect for the school, parents and teaching staff.

What are your future hopes for the College?

That the College continue to drive all levels of a well-rounded education. It’s important to understand that in today’s society, and looking towards the future, that being proficient in specific subjects will not be the only driving force behind success. An individual that understands diversity, the impact society is having on the environment, and empathy towards others, will be a well-grounded and successful individual. I hope the College continues to drive outcomes for our girls with this in mind.

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GENAZZANO FCJ COLLEGE

Nick Wall -

Director of Sport SPORT | PROFILE

I have been privileged to work with world champion athletes, be mentored by Australia’s best coaches and travel internationally for major championships and tournaments, yet my greatest passion for sport still comes at school level.

The benefits of participating in school sport are immense and yet often overlooked. Being part of a team brings a tremendous sense of belonging – and accomplishment when challenges are overcome together, win or lose. Sport provides many lessons and helps nurture resilience, comradery, commitment and patience.

That sense of belonging to a team has meant I have never really left my own school community- my most enjoyable years have been spent involved in sport. As Athletics Captain at Xavier College in 1996, I returned to coach alongside my own mentors and plenty of new faces over the past 20 years. As Head Coach and track captain at Old Xaverians Athletic Club (OXAC) for the past 10 years I have been lucky enough to work with over 20 Genazzano girls that have enjoyed the Pathway Program that OXAC offers for many girls in the Kew and surrounding area.

This year, I have continued to strengthen the sporting relationships between Genazzano and Xavier College. Our undefeated Senior AFL team now calls the Chapel Oval at Xavier home on a Friday afternoon, whilst we have also benefited greatly from the expertise of Xavier old boys as coaches in Diving and Athletics. The sense of community that is created between the schools is demonstrated through our shared boatshed facility on the Yarra.

My team at Genazzano is one I am most grateful for. From our talented and aspiring students to developing alumnae coaches, I am extremely grateful to have three of our key programs led by world class athletes and mentors in their own right.

Jane Robinson, a three time Olympian, leads an invigorated Rowing Program; Sarndra Kennerley, a representative player in her native New Zealand and coach at VNL level here in Melbourne has developed the largest participation school netball program in Victoria, whilst our Division 1 School Swimming Program and pathway through Gen Aquatic is mentored by Olympic medallist Matt Welsh.

GIVING THANKS WITH GRATEFUL HEARTS

This pathway program is one that we are trying to establish across many of our program sports at Genazzano. Netball is the best example thanks to the hard work of Sarndra. The program sees our girls exposed to school and community sport at Year 4 in a system that allows representative and state honours in playing, coaching and umpiring at the same courts right through to Year 12 and beyond. The fruits of this program being our first Genazzano state netballer this year- Clare Vearing (Class of 2017). Swimming has the well-established Gen Aquatic Club, rowing has formed strong links through various rowing clubs including the winter sculling programs at Melbourne University and Hawthorn, whilst we are strengthening our pathways through other sports for girls to maintain their healthy and active lifestyles beyond school years.

I have a strong desire at Genazzano to lead programs that produce quality sporting performances across a range of sports, but importantly not at the cost of maximising opportunity and participation for all. GSV weekly sport provides a great sampling opportunity for girls and our selection process and training offerings need to prioritise the development of high self-esteem, commitment and confidence.

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A much wiser coach than me once shared “that sport should be about more than the scoreboard, although the scoreboard provides invaluable lessons�.

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Allegra Mattioli College Co-Captain STUDENT LEADERSHIP | INTERVIEW BY ANTONIETTA DI COSMO

As the 2018 Co-Captain of the College, has there been a recent act of gratefulness you have witnessed by a student that moved you?

There are many acts of gratefulness that I witness every day. A small, but powerful moment I can recall was during the recent College Open Day. I was guiding some of the tours and it was so moving to see that all the student tour guides were so grateful to be a part of such a special experience; to be able to tell people how much they love their school and to be able to share their favourite memories and best experiences at Genazzano.

What aspect of your role as College Co-Captain are you most grateful for?

I am immensely grateful for the opportunities that I have to meet so many new and different people, students and teachers, throughout the school. It is so humbling to be able to approach people from all areas of the school, whether that be music, sport, drama or debating, and to feel a sense of togetherness and support that I believe is unique to our Genazzano community. I love being able to represent a diverse, inspirational and courageous group of young women.

What do you believe the students at Genazzano appreciate the most?

I believe that Gen girls appreciate all of the opportunities we are afforded at our beautiful school. We are so lucky to go to a school that provides so many pathways and resources for every girl and supports each of us on our very different journeys through life at the College. Not a day goes by that I am not extremely thankful for every person who I deal with at school - staff, student and teacher - for their tireless dedication to the school and for their overwhelming support that I feel grows stronger every day.

What is the significance of family and community at Genazzano?

To me, family and community mean everything at Genazzano. Having attended the College since Prep, I have grown up among a tightknit group of girls that are both caring towards one another and unapologetically supportive of each other, and every girl that they meet. I have always felt that even though we may call the buildings and our grounds “Genazzano” by name, it is the people who fill the halls, students and teachers, who make this beautiful house our home and share in our wonderful family.

What do you love and admire most about the Genazzano community?

There is no doubt that a Gen girl is always willing to lend a hand.

A strong sense of social justice is instilled in us from a young age, and we are encouraged to respect and serve our wider community, not because we have to, but because we want to. Over the years of completing various Companionship Programs, through the College and externally, as well as raising money for various missions, learning to think about the person next to me before myself has been a valuable lesson that I will carry with me years after I leave school.

What are you most grateful to Genazzano for?

I am most grateful to Genazzano for being a place where not even the sky is the limit.

Genazzano is a place where I can thrive, where I am supported in my studies and encouraged in my co-curricular activities. I have always been someone who would give anything a try, even if I didn’t know the outcome, and over the last 13 years, I have been able to be myself without judgment, experience different activities and be a part of various aspects of College life.

What is your favourite College event or activity you enjoy being a part of, and why?

My favourite College event is definitely Gen Day. Since Prep, I have loved every year being able to celebrate with the whole school the foundation of our College and remember the inspiring legacy left by the House founders. Those six extraordinary women have left lasting impressions on the College and it seems so fitting to celebrate their values of loyalty, bravery and wisdom, and strive to be more like them in our everyday lives.

Is there a particular part of Genazzano’s history that resonates with you?

When we were younger at Grange Hill, we would always be told the story of the first 12 nuns who came to Australia to establish FCJ schools and expand their faith across the world. This act of selfless bravery by these women to settle in an unknown country with little money and resources has always resonated with me and has given me pause to reflect on times in my life where I have had to step out of my comfort zone or take risks in an unknown situation.

GIVING THANKS WITH GRATEFUL HEARTS

What are your future hopes for the College and its students?

My future hopes are that the College keeps thriving and that its students can always feel safe and supported knowing that they are surrounded by a wonderful group of staff and a community that can help ensure the best experience for every girl. I hope that every Gen girl is able to be herself and always feel as though her voice is being heard, as well as to appreciate the rich Genazzano history and always remember the hardworking women who walked the corridors before them.

What does ‘Giving Thanks with Grateful Hearts’ mean to you?

Our College theme for this year means being grateful for every aspect of our College life and our broader Genazzano family.

To me, it means being thankful for our faith, and being able to understand how the calling and the values of the FCJ Sisters to serve others calls us to reach out to our community.

It also means rejoicing in the success of our friends and celebrating all of the wonderful opportunities we have been given at Gen to succeed at anything that we set our minds to.

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About the Interviewer ANTONIETTA DI COSMO | COLLEGE CO-CAPTAIN

Antonietta Di Cosmo is the College Co-Captain and is studying VCE Units 3&4 undertaking Global Politics, Italian, Mathematical Methods, English and Literature. Antonietta has experienced many outstanding achievements throughout her time at Genazzano, including participation in public speaking competitions for both the Rotary Club and Shout Recognition where she won, and was winner of the Swannie Debating award. Antonietta has received her Gold Laurel award and silver Duke of Edinburgh award, as well as the Morongo Medal for dedication in Rowing.

“As College Co-Captain, I am most grateful for the opportunity I have been given to serve Genazzano in various aspects of life. Whether it is supporting the girls across year levels or representing the College at various events. I am also grateful for the support that people show me, even girls who don’t know me very well have shown me compassion and companionship in times I have needed it most. I am appreciative to Genazzano for teaching me the importance of being myself and standing up for what I believe is right. I am confident that I can champion for change and goodness in our world even if it is through small acts. Gen has instilled in me a strong sense of social justice because we learn how important it is to help those who need it most.”

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GENAZZANO FCJ COLLEGE

News from the FCJ Sisters FAITH | SISTER MARYROSE DENNEHY, fcJ

This year we have three new FCJs in our community: Cecilia Courtney, Helen Mary Langlands and Denise Mulcahy. All three are Alumnae and have sisters who also went to Genazzano. The other FCJs who make up our community are: Maureen Merlo fcJ, our local leader, Margaret Maher fcJ, Joan Cartlidge fcJ and Maryrose Dennehy fcJ, as well as Toni Courtney fcJ and Mary O’Shannessy fcJ.

We all have different ministries, according to age and health, and we all try to “live in companionship with each other and those to whom we are sent”.

A few months ago, two of our younger FCJs from Indonesia came to live in our community house in St Albans; sisters Emilyana Beta Suryawati fcJ and Dewi Galang fcJ. Dewi is studying in Parkville at the Jesuit College of Spirituality within the University of Divinity,

and Beta is working in the parish. Very soon a Filipina FCJ, Annabelle Delos Santos (Bing), will be joining them and working in the parish, particularly with the Filipino community.

I am also pleased to announce that on 18 May, two Indonesian Sisters made their Final Vows as Faithful Companions of Jesus: Maria Irene Indrayanti (Meita) and Agustina Suhartini (Hartini). Both Sisters have already lived and worked in the Philippines for several years. As we are an international congregation, all FCJ Sisters are asked to live and work for some years in a country outside their own. Sr Judith Routier fcJ is going to Yogyakarta to receive Meita’s and Hartini’s Vows; Srs Anne Morrison fcJ from our Richmond community and Margaret O’Donohue fcJ from Fairfield are also attending this ceremony to represent Australian FCJs. Finally, we have heard that Sr Barbara Brown Graham fcJ, who has been living in London for several years, is returning to Australia this year. We are happy to welcome Barbara back to her homeland, but sorry that we shall be losing Sr Judith Routier fcJ, who in August will be leaving us to return to Europe.

GIVING THANKS WITH GRATEFUL HEARTS

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Sr Maureen Merlo, fcJ FAITH | INTERVIEW BY ANDREA HALLIDAY

Can you share with us your journey to becoming an FCJ Sister?

What led you on this path?

During my final year at Vaucluse FCJ College, Richmond, I thought about becoming an FCJ sister. During the next few months the idea remained and grew stronger, even though it certainly wasn’t what I desired at the time. After some prayer and reflection, the idea persisted that maybe God was calling me to be an FCJ. My parents were very surprised and shocked when I told them and they asked me to wait for a while. So I trained as a primary school teacher and taught for a year. After this time the desire that God was calling me to religious life was stronger. Even though my parents were not happy they allowed me to enter the novitiate. They were quite confident that religious life would not suit me. At that time the FCJs were very strict but over the years this has changed. In time my parents realised that this is where I was meant to be and were always very supportive.

What do you love most about being a part of the FCJ community?

The companionship we have with each other – even though we are all individuals but somehow live in unity with each other.

As a director on Benalla’s FCJ College Council, what would you say are the benefits of an education in an FCJ school?

An FCJ school certainly has a special quality- as do other congregational schools. Our foundress, Marie Madeleine d’Houët, strongly advocated justice for all and this is evident in our two Colleges.

Is there a particular part of the FCJ history that resonates with you?

Spending several years in England (in a boarding school) as well as time in Indonesia and the Philippines has been very culturally enriching for me. Participation in the Pilgrimage in the footsteps of our Foundress allowed me to fully understand the history of the FCJs. My time at Vaucluse as a staff member was wonderful and I am very grateful for that opportunity. I fondly remember the time in the final year of the College in 2000 when all the students went to Central Australia. I was also given the opportunity to visit Vietnam and meet with many family members of the students.

What does ‘Giving Thanks with Grateful Hearts’ mean to you?

It is very meaningful for me as there is so much for which to be grateful- especially being an FCJ sister. I am so pleased for my vocation and the life that I lead.

About the Interviewer ANDREA HALLIDAY (COTTER, 1985) | MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

Andrea graduated from Genazzano in 1985 and went on to study secondary teaching at the University of Melbourne, majoring in Legal Studies. Upon graduating she taught at Wesley College and concurrently obtained a Post Graduate Diploma in Marketing, which resulted in many different roles at Tourism Victoria, Racing Victoria and State Government.

She returned to education with roles in marketing at Loreto Mandeville Hall and St Leonard’s College and has recently joined Genazzano as the Marketing & Communications Manager for the College.

As a mother of three girls, Andrea knows the value of a strong and inspiring educational environment that encourages girls to flourish and learn and is excited about the many opportunities she will have to promote the excellent work of Gen girls and their teachers.

She is most grateful for her time at Genazzano as a young girl, where girls were encouraged to pursue their interests and passions, while being guided by the wisdom and strength of the FCJ Sisters.

JULY 2018

About the Interviewer CLAIRE WARRILLOW | ALUMNA & STUDENT AT THE VICTORIAN COLLEGE OF THE ARTS Graduating from Genazzano in 2015, Claire Warrillow is currently studying Musical Theatre at the Victorian College of the Arts, having completed their Foundation Scholarship Program in Musical Theatre and now completing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre. Claire also works at the Australian School of Performing Arts, teaching drama, music and dance in both Melbourne and rural schools. While studying at Genazzano, Claire co-directed her first show, the VCE Theatre Studies play, ‘The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time’. Claire returned to the College in 2017 to direct the middle school musical, ‘Mulan Jnr’.

“I feel so grateful for these opportunities. Genazzano has such an incredible array of Co-curricular activities; all my friends were able to busy themselves with activities they loved on top of academic studies. For me this was an amazing opportunity to pursue my interests in performing arts and music. The Music and Drama Departments were my second home during my time at school and I was so lucky to have mentors such as Janet Dawson and Gabrielle Quin who fostered my love of theatre. The College Musicals and Theatre Studies Program really helped me realise that acting and music was something I wanted to pursue at university. The opportunities I’ve had to come back and work with current students gives me a wonderful chance to reconnect and give back to the College community.”

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Gabrielle Quinn Drama Teacher

DRAMA | INTERVIEW BY CLAIRE WARRILLOW

When did you commence at Genazzano and what drew you to the College?

I commenced working at Genazzano in 2003. I was attracted to the ethos of the College with its focus on social justice, and the fact that Genazzano had a reputation for the pursuit of excellence in the Arts. Marisa Rowland, the former Theatre Studies teacher whose role I assumed, was a dedicated and passionate educator who had developed a culture of high expectations and high achievement in Drama education.

What changes have you seen and been a part of at the College throughout your time here?

One big physical change was the building of the Madeleine Centre for the Performing Arts. It is hard to believe that the extensive Music and Drama program fit into the Wardell Theatre prior to this!

The space has facilitated the increase of performance outcomes for the younger years, including the introduction of a Year 7 and 8 Musical (a positive and exciting development), and the Year 5 and 6 Drama Programs also produce performances for the community. We now offer a cocurricular performance with St Kevin’s College at Year 9 also.

GenProductions began as a fledgling co-curricular group of seven students to assist with backstage and to learn the technical side of theatre and this has grown into a very busy and exciting group where students can learn new skills and participate in a supporting role in the performances. Some Alumnae have reflected upon the firm friendships they formed in this group as they participated over the years which gives me great joy.

GIVING THANKS WITH GRATEFUL HEARTS

With respect to the curriculum, I have seen the introduction of Drama at VCE as an offering alongside Theatre Studies and Theatre Studies and Drama Units 1 & 2 for Years 10 and 11. Speech and Drama coaching was also introduced three years ago and has become very popular.

How would you describe the College community’s far reach generally and within the performing arts - what are some of your favourite aspects?

I love the fact that so many Alumnae feel so connected to Gen and will return to support the College in many ways. The Drama community has always been an inclusive and supportive one. It is exciting to experience many Alumnae returning to involve themselves in the Performing Arts at the College. Quite a number of them are recent graduates from Performing Arts courses at VCA, WAAPA and NIDA and university performing arts and design courses. Yourself Claire, and others, have joined the Department to direct or assist with design and choreography for the Year 7& 8 Musical, Year 5 & 6 play and other co-curricular offerings, or have come to attend the performances. This support has been inspiring for the students who are interested in pursuing these areas in the future.

What do you see as the future of Performing Arts at Gen? I believe performance opportunities will continue to flourish at the College and the use of technology and design in performance will increase also. Dance is an area that will also develop. I believe more House Drama will ensue as the students who are in the junior years show great enthusiasm for performance.

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What aspects of your time at the College are you grateful for and how would you describe your connection to the school?

I am deeply grateful for the community at Gen. The staff work incredibly hard and make the environment a friendly, beautiful and safe space to work. My professional growth has always been supported by the leadership and I have been given many opportunities to learn and develop as an educator. Overwhelmingly, the FCJ ethos of courage and confidence is alive in so many students and I feel privileged to have participated in their creative journeys. Witnessing so many talented and dedicated students achieving their best has inspired me.

What are some ways Performance Arts can connect students and the community beyond their time at school?

I can see the connection that forms between the Alumnae and younger students when they work together on a performance.

There is a sensation that they are part of a thread that runs through generations of Gen girls who have experienced the same challenges, overcome the same doubts and fears, and have felt the same excitement that performing provides. These are strong bonds that tie us together. Not long ago, a group of Alumnae met to see a professional performance of the VCE Theatre Studies show they had designed and performed years before. A love for literature, design and performance had brought them together originally and this interest remains a part of their adult lives. No matter what area they work in, the experiences and the skills they learned from these creative projects will serve them and bring them together as a community.

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Gen/Xavier Musical The Hot Mikado JANET DAWSON | DIRECTOR OF MUSIC

There’s always great excitement and anticipation when auditions are announced for the following year’s combined School Musical Production.

For 2018, the Production Team decided upon The Hot Mikado a musical comedy based on Gilbert & Sullivan’s ‘The Mikado’ adapted

by David H Bell and Rob Bowman. It wasn’t the “usual” Gilbert & Sullivan operetta – it was a swinging hot version!

Friendships were forged across the year levels. Team spirit strengthened and the goal became clear – to present to our respective communities a spectacular production of The Hot Mikado.

It was, without a doubt, an outstanding success.

Any awkwardness quickly disappeared within the first few weeks of rehearsal and the cast evolved into a gifted troupe of performers.

They carefully crafted their stage presence, worked hard at characterisation and danced their way through many demanding rehearsals.

Richard O’Shaughnessy’s ambitious artistic vision was capably supported by Chris Eury (Musical Director), Sophie Antoniou (Repetiteur) and Andrea Hamilton (our respected Choreographer).

Andrea drilled all the dancers to achieve a high standard of performance and offered the advanced dancers an opportunity to display great technique and artistry. Behind the scenes, Edwina Mintern, Peter Robert, Elise Kukulka, John Murphy, Belinda Harmer and Meagan Mitchell worked tirelessly to support the cast and team.

Personally, I feel privileged to have played a part in continuing the rich tradition that was established decades ago between Genazzano and Xavier. I dearly hope that the combined School Musical will continue to inspire students for the many more generations to come..

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The combined School Musical, with all its complexity, is a valuable educational experience. Students must be willing to learn, then apply what they have learnt. They need to work hard to build confidence and resilience. Ultimately, it’s a team effort!

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GenWelcomes CATHY FRAWLEY (BEER, 1980) | ALUMNA & CURRENT PARENT

I admit that GenWelcomes is my favourite event of the school social calendar. It is a night when everyone is formally ‘welcomed’ and this year’s College theme of ‘Giving Thanks with Grateful Hearts’ was certainly fitting. Whether you have been a part of this wonderful College for years or only a matter of weeks, there is a warmth and inclusivity that is truly unique.

Of course, an event like this doesn’t just happen and we are very grateful for the professionalism of the Development Office who are paramount in the success of this event. The Maintenance and Grounds teams are also wonderful contributors year in, year out, whilst the Genazzano Mothers’ Association and Genazzano Fathers’ Association work collaboratively on the day to ensure everything looks and runs perfectly. These groups all work flawlessly to bring together parents, staff, members of College Council and the Sisters, Faithful Companions of Jesus.

As is the tradition, the evening commences with mass at OLGC led by our school Chaplain, Fr Brendan Reed. Following this, guests congregate around the circular driveway for pre-dinner drinks, enjoying the open-air event surrounded by the incredible buildings of our College; the Wardell and D’Houet Buildings, as well as the magnificent Madeleine Centre. The latter has become so much a part of the landscape it is hard to imagine it was only added to the College seven years ago, in 2011.

As you chat to people on the night, it is always fascinating to learn about the motivation behind choosing Genazzano as a place to educate their daughters - whether it be an Alumnae connection, the subject choices, or even the Sporting and Music Programs on offer. There are so many different stories to tell and the beauty of GenWelcomes is that there is time to talk, listen and learn.

There is an informality and joyful ambience to the evening, which goes hand in hand with the sincerity and generosity of spirit experienced by all who attend.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

We Remember COLLEGE COMMUNITY

ALUMNAE 1.

Diana Crean (Fawcett, 1964): Wife of David. Mother of Melinda Watzel (1991. Outstanding Alumna Award Recipient 2007), Alicia Phipps (1997), Dr Angela Crean (1999). Sister of Jenny Bolton (Fawcett, 1964).

2.

Michele Gannon-Miller (1973): Wife of Greg, sister of Kerry (1975) and sister-in-law of Dr Michael Bradley. Aunt to Christopher, Margaret and Edward.

3.

Catherine Godbold (1992): Sister of Matthew, Annabelle, Timothy and Melissa.

4.

Peter Leonard (Old Boy, 1948): (Old Boy) Husband of Ann. Father of Clare Leonard (1997), Julia Leonard (1992),Sarah Leonard (1998). Brother of Bernard Leonard (Old Boy 1950, dec), Gabrielle Walsh (1964), Michele Connell (1966). Son of Ellen-Patricia (Pat) Leonard (1936, dec).

5.

Frances (Frankie) Moore (1944): Sister of Margaret (Peg) Hayden (1933), Mary Moore (1938), Barbara Moore, Sr Catherine (Kay) Moore, fcJ (1949) (all deceased), and seven brothers. Great-granddaughter of Ellen Corry (Corry House Founder, 1887).

6.

Mary Alice Murphy (1953): Wife of Jim (dec). Sister-in-law of Betty Dixon (1948), Mary Murphy (1953, current staff), Sr Denise Mulcahy, fcJ (1954), and Clare Riordan (1958).

7.

Mathilda Cukierman: Daughter of Kathe and Ludwig Egger (dec). Wife of Joshua Cukierman (dec). Mother of Shirley Silverstein (Genazzano member of staff).

8.

Judith (Judy) Elms: Wife of Basil (dec). Mother of Sophie Elms (1989), Jane Elms Pitney (Elms, 1978) and Catherine Quinn (Elms, 1980). Grandmother of Eliza Pitney (2017) and Mia Robertson (Year 11).

9.

Laurence Frazer: Father of Genevieve Nunan (Frazer 1970; past parent), David Frazer (current parent) and Jock Frazer (past parent). Father-in-law of Tony Nunan (past parent), Libby Meaden (current parent of Anna) and Marylou Frazer (past parent).

Grandfather of Sarah McNab (Nunan, 1995. Outstanding Alumna Award Recipient 2017), Kate Frazer (2006) and Anna Frazer (Year 11).

10. Stan Gawel: Husband of Valerie. Father of Anna Laver-Gawel (2015).

11. Sam Horgan: Grandson of Beverley Horgan (O’Hara, 1952).

12. Ross Jacobs: Uncle of Antonietta Di Cosmo (Year 12, College Co-Captain).

13. John McClusky: Husband of Aileen McClusky (O’Sullivan, 1945). Father of Jo Umbers (1969), Edwina Shepherd (1975), Michael and John. Grandfather of Maddie Shepherd (2008), Caitlin McClusky (2015), Michael Umbers, Andy Lacy, and Tom, Jack, Will and Lachey McClusky.

14. Stephen Mitchell: Husband of Nina Mitchell. Father of Bambi Bressanutti (Genazzano member of staff) and Glenn Mitchell.

Father-in-law of David Bressanutti. Grandfather of Carli and Joshua Starkey.

15. Patricia Alice Nelson: Wife of Maxwell Evans Nelson (dec).

Mother of Mandy Lyle (Genazzano member of staff) and Myles Nelson.

16. Margaret Parker: Daughter of Commander Michael Parker (Old Boy, 1930). Niece of Susan Duffy (Parker, 1948) and Mary-Clare Fitzgerald (Parker, 1948).

17. Gwenda Mary Ross: Wife of John (dec). Mother of Catherine Newman (Ross, 1964) and Mary Anne Ross (1974).

Grandmother of Grace Ross Farrell (2017).

18. Gerard Sharkey: Husband of Susan Sharkey (Parr, 1963).

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COMMUNITY NEWS

ALUMNAE

Births

1.

Amara Florence Geason, born 7 March 2018. Daughter to Cameron and Sarah Geason (Wilson, 2000). Niece to Georgina Wilson (2003) and Amanda Oakley (Wilson, 1998).

2.

Edward (Ned) Jack Parker, born 31 August 2017. Son to Shane and Gillian Parker (Genazzano member of staff).

Grandson to Mary Tehan (Parker, 1970). Nephew to Kate Parker (2001) and Jessica Parker (2003). Great Nephew to Anne Tehan (1970) and Margaret Walker (1955).

STAFF 3.

Noah Charlie, born 15 April 2018. Son to Clare Hesse.

4.

Oscar Harvey, born 26 April 2018. Son to Lisa O’Halloran.

5.

Harper Summer, born 2 February 2018.

Daughter to Rebecca McNamara.

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Weddings ALUMNAE 1.

Stephanie Marsicovetere (2002) married Anthony Hounsell on 16 May 2017 at Oria Cathedral in Puglia, Italy, followed by a reception at Masseria Potenti.

2.

Melissa Nguyen (2002) married Gordie Waters on 15 December 2017 at the Collingwood Children’s Farm.

3.

Laura Scalzo (2007) married Edward Ciarma on 21 October 2017 at Xavier College Chapel, followed by a reception at the International of Brighton.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

CLASS OF 1958 60 year reunion

CLASSES OF 1952-1954 65 year reunion

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GenUnite Genazzano becomes the first Australian Catholic school to launch online alumnae communication platform ‘GenUnite’ via innovative global software ‘Graduway’.

For over a century, Genazzano has enjoyed an illustrious and meaningful history of Alumnae relations that dates back to the creation of the Old Girls’ Association in 1911.

Today, the Genazzano Alumnae Association continues to be a strong and supportive community of women who share a common history of education and friendship at Genazzano.

To ensure our community remains connected and able to communicate effectively and efficiently with one another and the College, Genazzano has partnered with Graduway to create a new online communication platform called, GenUnite. Utilising the technology capabilities of this innovative global software company, Graduway, who boast a client list of over 500 education and not-for-profit organisations, GenUnite will allow Genazzano Alumnae to connect like never before.

Genazzano is excited to be the first Australian Catholic education school to be using Graduway, which speaks volumes to the innovative approach to technology that the College is taking. GenUnite will allow the Genazzano Alumnae community, at home and abroad, to communicate with one another via:

real time feed updates; upcoming events; viewing and sharing photos; Alumnae focused news articles; connect with Alumnae in their professional fields; act as a portal to support the mentoring program at Genazzano; access a full Alumnae directory; search and advertise job opportunities; and create/join groups.

Genazzano’s Director of Development, Lucy Cohen, helped pioneer GenUnite via the Graduway software and is excited to be launching such an advanced communication platform within Catholic education.

“Having worked with Graduway to launch their first K-12 project in Australia in 2016, I was keen to re-engage with them in the Catholic sector. Graduway (GenUnite) provides a user-friendly, targeted and effective solution for schools to stay connected with Alumnae in a password protected environment. The Genazzano Alumnae Association and the College are excited about the potential of GenUnite to connect with our busy graduates and to provide opportunities for them to network and leverage contacts in a way that no other platform allows.”

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Upcoming Events CLASS OF 2017 First year reunion Wednesday 14 November 2018 Genazzano FCJ College

CLASSES OF 1998 & 1988 20 & 30 year renunion Saturday 13 October 2018 Genazzano FCJ College

CLASS OF 1968 50 year reunion

CLASS OF 1978 40 year reunion

Date: Saturday 13 October 2018 Venue: Kooyong Tennis Club

Saturday 20 October 2018 Kew RSL

Further enquiries, please email: Contact: Paula Gurry Email: gurrybp@bigpond.net.au

Invitations with further details about the above Reunions held at the College will be sent closer to the date.

College Community Events Annual Music Concert

Outstanding Alumnae Awards Evening

Memorial Mass

Wednesday 8 August 2018

Wednesday 29 August 2018

Sunday 18 November 2018

Genazzano FCJ College 301 Cotham Road Kew VIC 3101 Telephone: +61 3 8862 1000 Facsimile: +61 3 8862 1133 Email: development@genazzano.vic.edu.au genazzano.vic.edu.au

CRICOS Provider Number: 03298G