Sancta Magazine February 2018

SANCTA

SANCTA

SOPHIA COLLEGE Wa lk in Wi sd om

FEBRUARY 2018

THE NEW YEAR BRINGS IN CHANGE

CONTENTS A Letter to the Community

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10 X 10 Snapshot

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Sancta’s Awards

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Farewell for Dr Marie Leech

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Sr Mary Shanahan’s 90th Birthday Party

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ON THE COVER Sancta’s 2018 student leaders: Jesseline Ingold, Elizabeth Mansourian, Mary Schnelle, Behzad Memarzadeh, Sophia Wright, Isobel Rowe.

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Acknowledgements Editor Michele Dunn, Marketing and Development Manager The editor would like to thank Elizabeth Burns, Maryanne Pidcock and Dr Marie Leech for their assistance with this publication.

Photography Many thanks to Nicholas Chu, House of Cameo, Eloise Robertson and Lindsay Liu.

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www.sanctasophiacollege.edu.au

Contact Us Sancta Sophia College 8 Missenden Road Camperdown NSW 2050 Main Office Hours Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm Fundraising and Alumni Enquiries Shanelle Kennedy Phone 02 9577 2100 Email developmentassistant@sancta.edu.au General Enquiries From within Australia Phone 02 9577 2100 Fax 02 9577 2388

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International Phone +61 2 9577 2100 Fax +61 2 9577 2388

ALUMNI EVENTS

Email reception@sancta.edu.au

21 March Donors’ & Scholars’ Dinner

We are always keen to hear what our alumni and friends are doing, so please let us know any career achievements and highlights, births, marriages, engagements or other news.

Enquiries and submissions developmentassistant@sancta.edu.au Join our Facebook or LinkedIn pages, or follow us on Twitter

16 March Meet the Principal 12 April 70s Club High Tea 10 May Sr Mary Shanahan Scholarship Major Donors’ Dinner and Scholarship Launch 15 June 1958 Reunion Lunch 28 July Gala Dinner and Alumni Awards

Disclaimer: The editor has compiled SANCTA from various sources.

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the information published is accurate, the editor cannot accept responsibility for inaccuracies in the content or authenticity of that information.

22 August Mother Yvonne Swift Bequest Lunch 4 November Final College and Memorial Mass 8 November Donors’ & Supporters’ Drinks

From the

PRINCIPAL

We have reached the end of an historic year at Sancta and the Sydney Colleges, the year of the Review of Culture by Liz Broderick and her team, the first independent review carried out on a colleges’ community. It has been an interesting, challenging and sometimes emotional journey for the colleges’ communities.

For Sancta, the reports confirmed those wonderful aspects of college life that make up the Sancta experience. In the Sancta specific report, the Project Team noted:

Feedback from the Sancta community – from students, alumni and friends, staff and Council – has been extremely positive and acknowledges the very safe and secure environment of the College and its culture of respect.

“Sancta Sophia College is an important and impressive institution within the College and University of Sydney community. It has a rich and proud history and its graduates have contributed across a range of fields and disciplines to enhance life for Australians and for others around the world. While Sancta Sophia College nurtures the intellectual and cultural minds of its students, it also offers students spiritual growth and support through its Catholic foundation…

“The Sancta Sophia College community has much of which it should be proud, including the commitment of its staff and student leaders; the involvement of its student body in rich extracurricular activities; its academic achievements; and the breadth and diversity of college life. In particular, the Project Team noted the deep sense of community, connectedness and belonging felt by students. This is core to a positive College experience.

“In recent years, the Sancta Sophia College community has done much to strengthen its culture, focusing efforts on making the College diverse and inclusive…”

There are still areas that we need to improve on, and we will make a concerted effort to address each and every one as quickly as possible.

All colleges have wholeheartedly committed to ensuring every recommendation is fully implemented within 24 months.

Feedback from the Sancta community – from students, alumni and friends, staff and Council – has been extremely positive and acknowledges the very safe and secure environment of the College and its culture of respect: “Thank you for the very comprehensive letter re the Broderick Report.

Congratulations on the very good results for Sancta. I have already received several phone calls and messages from observers and others who were impressed. It should give hope and a feeling of security to new students and their parents.

“We must make the students see how LUCKY they are to be at Sancta.”

And: “I would like to thank and congratulate you and the Council on your response to the Broderick review.

The comprehensive and thoughtful report provided to alumni and others demonstrates the on-going care that the College takes in looking after the physical and mental well-being of its students.”

“I remain proud to be a Sancta old girl, and thankful for the time I spent within her walls as a student in the 1980s.”

We have, of course, asked ourselves: to what do we owe this positive outcome?

My analysis gives two key reasons: >> The strong diversity in our student population. Diversity in cultural background results in a richness and range in terms of what students bring to the College and therefore the resulting culture takes on that richness and range. Diversity in socio-economic background brings with it an appreciation for the wonderful gift that is the Sancta experience and a valuing and treasuring of it.

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From the

PRINCIPAL

>> The deeply embedded Sacred Heart traditions: Though the College has been in the care of lay staff since the early 1990s, the charism of the Sacred Heart is embedded in what we do and how we do it.

The Foundress of the Society of the Sacred Heart, Saint Madeleine Sophie Barat, had a vision to educate the heart and mind of every child.

The five goals of Sacred Heart education are: A personal and active faith in God; A deep respect for intellectual values; The building of community as a Christian value; A social awareness which impels to action: Personal growth in an atmosphere of wise freedom.

May the road rise to meet you May the wind be always at your back May the sun shine warm upon your face The rains fall soft upon your fields And until we meet again, until we meet again May God hold you in the palm of his hand And until we meet again, until we meet again May God hold you in the palm of his hand May the sun make your days bright May the stars illuminate your nights May the flowers bloom along your path Your house stand firm against the storm And until we meet again, until we meet again May God hold you in the palm of his hand And until we meet again, until we meet again May God hold you in the palm of his hand.

Sancta will continue along the pathway – with the other Colleges – of cultural review and renewal.

During these past months, as I come to the end of my 10-year period at Sancta, I have received many gifts and for those, many thanks to students, alumni and friends, staff and Council.

As many of you know, I had made the difficult decision to finish at the end of 2017 five years ago as I discussed my contract with the Council, the main reason being the long-held wish to work and live in Rome – not something one can postpone indefinitely. So, I was well used to the idea that 2017 would be my last year at Sancta and thus was able to remain somewhat contained though most of the ‘finals’ – final Formal Dinner, final meetings with House Committee and Senior Common Room, final Sunday Mass, finals of many special events.

But the wonderful experience of the performance by the entire College community of An Irish Blessing at Vale, followed by the beautiful performance of The Parting Glass by the small choir, was the most precious of gifts and certainly reduced me to tears, tears of truly genuine appreciation for this very special place. I can think of no better farewell to you than the lovely words of An Irish Blessing:

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Dr Marie Leech

Chair of

COUNCIL

Marie is a networking guru, and this attribute has meant that the ties between Sancta and all levels at the University of Sydney have strengthened immeasurably.

I always get to December and think, where has the year gone? This year is no exception. It’s been an interesting year with the Council, staff and students dealing with several major projects in the College, in addition to the usual jampacked schedules. These projects are the Broderick Review, the appointment of a new Principal and planning for the transition from our current Principal, as well as major works to upgrade the College to today’s fire safety standards, renovate the Octagon bathrooms and change over the College door system to a keyless one.

Of course, I would rather that Sancta remained out the newspapers, but due to the Broderick Review and the press conference on 29 November 2017, numerous newspaper and online articles eventuated, including those in the Sydney Morning Herald and The Australian. For more background on the Broderick Review, please go to our website which contains the final report into the five participating Colleges, known as Cultural Review at the University of Sydney Residential Colleges and the report focusing specifically on Sancta, known as Report to Sancta Sophia College on Cultural Renewal.

Regarding the Broderick Review, the Council wishes to acknowledge those of you who did the main strategic steering of the project, being Dr Leech, Ms Maryanne Pidcock and Ms Michele Dunn, and those who handled the organisational end of things being Ms Maryanne Pidcock and Ms Mia Trinidad.

We thank you all for the huge amount of time devoted to ensuring that the project ran smoothly at all levels. The comparisons between the Colleges that have already appeared in the press speak for themselves and support that Sancta is a safer and more supportive environment. Of course, the work is not yet done, and will involve the implementation of the recommendations as set out in the above referenced reports, but the amount of dedication shown by all staff in achieving these outcomes cannot be underestimated.

And whilst all this was happening, we also undertook the recruitment of a new Principal, with the successful candidate being Ms Fiona Hastings.

Her background, enthusiasm and empathy will hold the College in great stead for the coming years and the Council warmly welcomes her. A Q & A on Fiona appears later in the magazine.

And now for farewells. After 10 years as Principal, Dr Marie Leech is leaving us. I did ask Marie how many farewells she would be attending, and it was at least eight. It is difficult to think of the more important legacies that someone like Marie will leave behind, but I believe that there are two. Marie is a networking guru, and this attribute has meant that the ties between Sancta and all levels at the University of Sydney have strengthened immeasurably.

These connections are so important to the College for obvious reasons and they have been continuously cultivated

by Marie during her time as Principal.

The other more tangible legacy is Graduate House. With Marie’s drive and determination, Graduate House was delivered on time and on budget, pretty amazing given that before Graduate House, Sancta was the smallest of the University of Sydney Residential Colleges. No doubt such drive and determination will be applied to all Marie’s roles, post Sancta. The Council wishes Marie all the very best in her future endeavours and offers her our greatest thanks.

Regards,

Cathleen Crossley

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Introducing FIONA

HASTINGS

Here we learn a little more about Fiona: Tell us about your background and how it has prepared you for your role as Principal at Sancta.

With five brothers and sisters, I grew up on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. I went to school at Stella Maris in Manly, and then onto study at UNSW. I have worked as a social worker for over 20 years.

The first phase of my career was with Corrective Services, working mainly with women in prison. My first leadership role was at a residential rehabilitation and transition house for women coming out of gaol. While there are few parallels between that role and the role at Sancta, it did teach me how to respond to just about any crisis that comes along!

Sancta Sophia College is pleased to introduce Ms Fiona Hastings, who will commence as Principal in February 2018.

Ms Hastings’ appointment was the culmination of an executive search and rigorous recruitment process, in which many high calibre candidates made applications to lead the College.

The Chair of Council, Cathleen Crossley, said that the College was thrilled that Fiona accepted the role as Principal from 2018. Further saying, “Fiona brings such an exciting mix of talent to the role, including extensive social work experience combined with an MBA. Whilst we will be very sad to lose our current Principal, Dr Marie Leech, the College has such a lot to look forward to.”

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The next phase of my career has been with CatholicCare in the Diocese of Broken Bay, and then CatholicCare in Sydney. I combined full-time work with part time study and completed an MBA with AGSM at UNSW in 2014.

My latest role has been General Manager of CatholicCare’s Child and Family Division. Managing a diverse range of social care services, supported by a broad team of professionals has been a great experience, and I have really enjoyed combining the skills of social work with my business training.

What attracted you to the role of Principal at Sancta?

Sancta plays an unusual and important role in supporting young women and men obtain academic achievement at the highest level. I am acutely aware of the benefits and the freedoms that come with higher education. Being able to support students in this unique way is a gift.

How would you describe your leadership style?

My leadership style is largely driven by my values. My values have been shaped and formed through Catholic Social Teaching. Catholic Social Teaching speaks of dignity, of the common good, of solidarity, of subsidiarity, of the preferential option for the poor and of stewardship for creation. I like to listen to people, I like to support and engage people in decisions that affect them, and I always work to ensure that people are respected and treated with kindness.

What is your vision for the College?

My vision for the College is very much grounded in its past. Sancta has always been a home for people engaged in higher learning, and I want to ensure that it remains the supportive and safe place it has always aspired to be. Sancta is a business that will always require focus and attention, but it is also a home for many young people during a crucial part of their lives. My vision is that Sancta remains a safe and supportive home, that enriches learning and creativity.

Tell us a little bit about your family and how they are feeling about becoming part of the Sancta community.

My husband, Anthony, is a musician and primary school teacher. He will continue working on the Northern Beaches, but is really looking forward to being part of the Sancta Community. Anthony and I have three children: Andrew, Will and Sophie. Will has just finished the HSC and is hoping to study next year at UNSW, while Soph will be in Year 9 at her school in Chatswood. Both will be joining us in the move to Sancta. Andy is 27 and lives independently near by, so will become a familiar face also. I think we are all looking forward to similar things: to living on campus, with all the adventures that this suggests, and to being part of the unique community of Sancta!

FOUR YEARS IN GRADUATE HOUSE More than 10 students who formed part of the inaugural cohort of Graduate House in 2014, left the College at the end of Semester. We asked them about their time here and what the future holds.

Kathryn (Katie) Wales Doctor of Medicine

You joined Sancta as one of the first students in Graduate House in 2014. How would you describe your experience here over the last 4 years?

These past 4 years have been some of the best of my life. In 2014, I first moved out of home from the Sunshine Coast in QLD to Sydney, to start studying for my medical degree. Sancta provided me with many opportunities to grow in a secure environment, while providing great friendships along the journey. It was the perfect home while I studied at university, not just for convenience, but in terms of the opportunities it gave me through leadership, sport, culture and social activities to balance my academic studies.

What would you say has been the highlight of your time at Sancta?

There have been so many highlights. I have loved everything from my role as a Resident Assistant, serving on the Senior Common Room and the many events Sancta has held. In particular, definite highlights were the people I met and the tight-knit Sancta community.

What are your plans now?

I will take some time off before starting work in the New Year at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital as a junior doctor and so will still be living close by.

Where will you be and what will you be doing in 10 years time?

Hopefully I will be working in a hospital somewhere, having specialised in a particular field.

Akash Arora Doctor of Philosophy (Engineering and IT)

You joined Sancta as one of the first students in Graduate House in 2014. How would you describe your experience here over the last 4 years?

My four years at Sancta have been very rewarding. Moving to a new country is challenging for anyone, and the atmosphere at Sancta made it really easy to connect with both domestic and international students, and quickly build a social circle. Getting to live with, share meals, and enjoy drinks on the rooftop on a Friday night with such a diverse bunch of people is a rare opportunity and one that I’m grateful to have had.

In my second year, I had the opportunity to serve as the Treasurer for the SCR as well as an RA, which allowed me to significantly improve my leadership and social skills, and raised my awareness of how common mental health issues are in society and what we can do to help.

In my third year, I continued in the RA role and grew quite close to the Sancta population.

In my final year, I was only at Sancta for 6 months. These were the last 6 months of my PhD, so I stepped down from some responsibilities and focused on finishing off the research. Once again, the social atmosphere and support available at Sancta relieved much of the stress I would have otherwise had. I’ve now left the College with friendships and memories that I’ll treasure for life.

What would you say has been the highlight of your time at Sancta?

Contributing to the improvement of college life as Treasurer and RA. What are your plans now?

the thesis, after which I plan to go on a holiday. I will hopefully take up a robotics research engineer role in Sydney next year.

Where will you be and what will you be doing in 10 years time?

I hope to spend 1-2 years in Sydney to further build up my skill set and contribute to the robotics and space research in Australia. After that, I intend to work in the United States for a few years.

Valeriya Matveeva Doctor of Dental Medicine

You joined Sancta as one of the first students in Graduate House in 2014. How would you describe your experience here over the last 4 years?

It was one of great times. Being from overseas, Sancta had become my home since February 2014. I have met almost all of my closest friends in Australia at Sancta. It was great to see the postgrad community being created and developing over the four years. And it does feel like leaving home now…

What would you say has been the highlight of your time at Sancta?

Teaching, through tutoring, I have discovered this passion I have never realised I had.

What are your plans now?

Successfully graduating and having a little break before I start working, it is my 11th year of full-time University studies in a row.

Where will you be and what will you be doing in 10 years time?

Practicing my surgery somewhere in coastal NSW, going fishing on the weekends and getting ready for Christmas and New Year 2027 (I will be 37 as well and I prefer not to think about it!).

I am currently refining the last bit of

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A LETTER TO THE COMMUNITY

About The Broderick Review into College Culture The Sancta Sophia College Council, Principal, Staff and Student leaders acknowledge the fine work undertaken

by Elizabeth Broderick and the Project Team over the past year in their review of the current culture of the Colleges at the University of Sydney.

The final report into the five participating Colleges, known as Cultural Review at the University of Sydney Residential Colleges was released on Wednesday 29 November 2017 and can be found on the College website http://www. sanctasophiacollege.edu.au/aboutsancta/%20broderick-review-intocollege-culture/. The report focusing specifically on Sancta Sophia College, known as Report to Sancta Sophia College on Cultural Renewal is also available on that webpage.

The release of the reports and recommendations is historic, being the first into the culture of university Colleges in Australia and Sancta is proud to have participated. Both reports recognise many and various strengths of College life, yet identify that there is more work to be done for Colleges to continue their cultural evolution, model and deliver best practice in the interests of their students.

We stand united and accept all the findings of the Cultural Review without reservation. We appreciate that there needs to be a shift in the way we do some things at College and we will work with determination to develop our responses to the recommendations to ensure a safer community for all our students, and for all students at other residential Colleges at the University of Sydney. We will work with the University and other colleges to develop and implement all the recommendations.

At Sancta, we understand that we need to continue to evolve to remain relevant and dynamic. We are deeply committed to the renewal process.

In the Sancta specific report, the Project

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Team sets out its understanding of the prevailing cultural life of Sancta Sophia College, and acknowledges that for the majority, the overall College experience is positive and rewarding. The report outlines our many strengths and recognises that our focus has been on developing the College’s culture. Part of the the Project Team’s quote can be found on page 1 in the Principal’s address. They went on to say “In recent years, the Sancta Sophia College community has done much to strengthen its culture, focusing efforts on making the College diverse and inclusive…

“The Project Team has no doubt that through its ongoing reforms, Sancta Sophia College will continue and enhance its position as a leading and influential College within the University of Sydney. It will be a role model for other Australian and international university colleges showcasing a number of best practices for creating residential cultures where all students thrive.”

There are many areas where advances that are already underway at the College are noted. We know that we must continue to build on these to ensure that participation in this Project benefits not only current students but those who will reside at Sancta Sophia College in the future. The safety and welfare of all members of the Sancta community is our primary concern and focus. The recommendations are a lever for action and we will prioritise every aspect.

Elizabeth Broderick

Leadership The implementation of the recommendations will require courageous leadership. Sancta’s leaders, at all levels, are willing to step up as one to build on the work already done. >> Before orientation week, to demonstrate our genuine and visible commitment to cultural renewal, the Principal, Senior Student, House Committee Executive, President and members of the Senior Common Room will develop and deliver a clear and strong written statement (signed by all) that articulates the importance of cultural renewal, its benefit to individual students and the College more broadly. This statement will be disseminated widely internally and externally, and will also: >> Include strong messages about the College’s zero tolerance of hazing and sexual misconduct, as well as policies on alcohol misuse, harassment and damage to property. >> Be reiterated and restated each year with incoming student leadership groups. >> Be incorporated into orientation for first years and into student leadership training.

The positives for Sancta are: >> The report noted that Sancta Sophia College has already demonstrated its willingness to work with students by involving them substantively in cultural reform to date. >> Sancta Sophia College students felt supported by staff, peers and the student leadership team. >> The Project Team noted much collegiality among students with a limited hierarchy. >> Students at Sancta Sophia College spoke positively about the overall inclusive nature of their College. >> A strong and consistent theme was the sense of belonging and inclusion felt by Sancta Sophia College students. >> Sancta Sophia College has a diverse student population of which students were particularly proud. >> Just over one-third of Sancta’s students are domestic students from regional or remote areas (39%), >> 28% are international students, >> 19% from interstate, and >> 14% are from the Sydney metropolitan area. >> The Survey revealed that 30% of Sancta Sophia College students surveyed agreed or strongly agreed with the statement ‘drinking alcohol helps me to socialise and make friends at College’. This is a significantly lower result when compared to the 49% of students reporting this across the five residential Colleges. >> The Project Team made recommendations about reforms to orientation week across the Colleges, which include an emphasis on harm minimisation, while at the same time retaining its celebratory nature. A number of the recommendations build on reforms already made at Sancta Sophia College. >> The Project Team had no evidence of any student being seriously injured from activities that could be characterised as hazing. Of Sancta Sophia College students surveyed, only 4% reported experiencing ‘hazing’ (significantly lower than the experience of surveyed students

across the five residential Colleges (13%)) and 7% reported experiencing ‘pressure to participate in activities that were humiliating or intimidating to you or other students’ (on par with the experience of surveyed students across the five residential Colleges). >> The Survey revealed that 5% of Sancta Sophia College women surveyed reported that they had experienced sexist remarks directed at them since starting at College (significantly lower when compared with 14% of women across the five residential Colleges).

Of these students, approximately onethird reported that they experienced the behaviour from fellow Sancta Sophia College students, while the majority experienced the behaviour from students from a different residential College. >> The Survey results revealed that 15% of Sancta Sophia College women have experienced sexual harassment since commencing at the College (significantly lower when compared with women surveyed across the five residential Colleges (25%)). Undergraduate students in their second year or higher at Sancta Sophia College were significantly more likely to report this (29%) compared with undergraduate freshers (7%) and postgraduates (7%).

Areas identified for improvement include: >> Ensuring the election of student leaders is democratic as well as transparent and rigorous. The process should ensure that those students with the best leadership qualities or potential are selected, rather than those who may be the most popular. >> From 2018, Sancta will: >> Move student committee elections to early in Semester 2 and review role descriptions for all key positions. >> Develop clear criteria for selection that includes candidates’ demonstrated commitment to inclusion, respect and safety. >> Ensure candidates for leadership roles have the express support of the Principal in relation to their demonstrated ability to foster and

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champion a culture of inclusion, respect and safety. >> Enhance the transparency, anonymity and confidentiality of the voting process for students. >> Ensure the election process is strong and rigorous Continuing to ensure that female postgraduate students are given tangible opportunities for leadership roles, both as a matter of fairness and equality but also because considerable research confirms that gender-diverse leadership teams in any organisation perform more effectively and have better outcomes than homogenous teams.

Sancta will work with the Senior Common Room to embed a 40:40:20 rule for gender balance in leadership roles when averaged over a 4 year period.

Continuing to foster a respectful and safe environment and when unacceptable behaviours occur, there is at all times a safe reporting environment and a rigorous complaints handling and support system. >> Sancta will ensure all students are encouraged to complete the Consent Matters training and are made aware of the College and University policies and support mechanisms A strong theme emerging throughout the Project was College students’ sense of marginalisation by other students and staff from the wider University of Sydney community.

While less of a concern for Sancta Sophia College students, nevertheless 27% of Sancta Sophia College students surveyed agreed or strongly agreed with the statement ‘I feel stigmatised by University of Sydney students and staff because I go to College’ (significantly lower than the experience of students surveyed across the five residential Colleges (51%)). Postgraduate students were significantly less likely to agree or strongly agree with this statement (5%) than undergraduate freshers (36%) or undergraduate students in their second year or higher (37%). >> Sancta will work with the University to ensure all Sancta

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students feel proud of their residence at Sancta and promote the value and strong contribution that belonging to Sancta brings to the University. >> The Project Team identified concerns about the level of responsibility placed on RAs and their limited expertise in dealing with serious matters, such as sexual misconduct. Staff may also lack professional experience when serious disclosures are made, so it is vital that all first responders are properly trained and have a number of appropriate referral pathways for individuals seeking assistance. The first disclosure by a victim of sexual harassment, sexual assault or even hazing can be the most important and so it is critical that the first response is the right one. In any setting, including a College, an inadequate or even punitive response can often result in silencing and retraumatising victims. It can also prevent others from coming forward if they do not feel that they will receive a sensitive response. >> At Sancta, all Resident Assistants, House Committee and Senior Common Room are currently trained in Mental Health First Aid. All student leaders and relevant staff will be trained in respectful relationships and first responder training. Students will be made aware of the support services offered at the University and the Resident Assistants will continue to receive internal support and be referred to external support when required. >> Students in discussion groups and interviews lacked awareness of the University complaints system and counselling service. There was a view that they would use their personal or the College support network before reporting and seeking support from the University. >> Sancta will ensure all students are aware of the University policies and support services. >> Respectful Intercollege Community – the need for all College Heads and student leaders to strengthen efforts to create a respectful intercollege community.

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>> Sancta will work with the other Colleges to ensure there is a culture of respect and fair play at all times between the colleges in any social and competitive interactions.

Policies The Project Team identified that many policies at Sancta reflect certain elements of best practice. There is a need to focus on and strengthen these areas: >> Alcohol Harm Minimisation >> Developing an Alcohol Policy aimed at harm minimisation which is a common, uniform response to alcohol and alcoholrelated harm be adopted by each College. >> Changing the nature and number of events where alcohol is served. >> Hazing >> Though the College’s policy on bullying is found in the Code of Conduct (the ‘Code’) in the Student Guide clearly enunciates that any form of bullying (including cyber-bullying) is not tolerated and is a breach of the College’s rules. Hazing is not explicitly addressed and a stand alone policy and definitions around hazing needs to be developed. >> Sexual Harassment and Assault The Report noted “Sancta Sophia College’s policies addressing sexual misconduct are interwoven into the College’s harassment policies found in the Code of Conduct. The Code provides a definition of sexual harassment, and includes examples of behaviours that constitute such harassment. These include ‘sexual or suggestive remarks’ and ‘unwanted sexual propositions’ as forms of verbal behaviour that could be considered harassment, and ‘touching the sexual or other parts of someone else’s body’ and ‘unnecessary physical contact such as pinching, patting, touching, kissing…against their will’ as physical behaviour that could amount to harassment.

While not a stand-alone policy, which is considered best practice, the policy has a number of positive attributes. It is easily accessible and includes very comprehensive definitions of harassment (including sexual harassment), bullying and discrimination and, as such, is a powerful education resource to inform students of the breadth of these behaviours. The Code of Conduct also includes guidelines and procedures for making a complaint, the investigation process and the possible outcomes for someone who engages in these behaviours and breaches the Code.

The policy does not refer to sexual assault. Rather it describes the prohibition of certain behaviours that would come within the scope of sexual assault. The Project Team considers it imperative that sexual misconduct policy statements clearly indicate zero tolerance towards sexual assault and that sexual assault be clearly defined.” >> We accept the report’s recommendations unreservedly and will work towards developing these responses by the end of 2018: >> Developing sexual misconduct policy statements and a Code of Conduct that clearly articulates a zerotolerance approach to sexual assault and include a clear definition of it. >> Creating an environment that discourages sexual misconduct, including: >> Creating and renewing a culture and community values of dignity, respect and gender equality. >> Implementing robust policies for responding to sexual misconduct (see below). >> Environmental prevention measures (such as increased or improved lighting and closed circuit television in and around College grounds). >> Supporting bystander intervention. >> Ensuring a whole-of-community approach which involves all levels of the institution including staff, students, Council and alumni is required.

Summary The last 12 months have provided the opportunity for the Sancta community, and in fact for the five Colleges, to hold a mirror up – to interrogate our culture, identify our many strengths and consider how we can work harder to provide a supportive environment so that all College residents can thrive.

Statements from College Leaders All levels of College leadership are united in their support for the report and offer the following comments: From the Chair of Council: No organisation can remain relevant to their ideals and mission without being reviewed regularly in an honest and unvarnished way. The Broderick Report has enabled Sancta to have such a review. The Council has been strongly committed to this process since its inception and supports the recommendations that the resulting report has provided.

I applaud the leadership shown by the University of Sydney and by each of the Colleges included in the report, and thank all those who have participated.

Ms Cathleen Crossley Chair of Council From the Principal Our primary concern always has been, and always will be, the well-being and care of our students. Providing them with the very best possible student experience in a safe, supportive and inclusive environment underpins our approach at Sancta.

This indepth cultural review could not have occurred without the willing and enthusiastic participation of so many

Signed: We are most thankful for the open and honest participation of students, staff and alumni. The journey has brought us great rewards already, in focussing our attention on what is already good at Sancta and sharpening our gaze on what we can still do better.

Sancta students, staff and alumni and I wish to thank them for their generosity of time and honesty.

We unreservedly accept every recommendation in the Report.

While we can demonstrate many strengths, there are areas which demand immediate improvement and we will work with our students, our communities and the University to address these without delay.

I thank Elizabeth Broderick and her team for their sensitive and honest report, and the Vice Chancellor and the University of Sydney for their partnership and commitment to enabling the colleges to reflect in order to review our culture.

Dr Marie Leech Principal From the Senior Student The Broderick Review is a very positive initiative and offers a valuable insight into the Sancta Community.

The House Committee is working constructively with the students, staff and Council and remains deeply committed to the cultural renewal process. Collaboratively, we have successfully started implementing some of the recommendations. We look forward to building upon these to ensure that every student has the best possible Sancta experience.

Chair of Council, Ms Cathleen Crossley Principal, Dr Marie Leech Senior Student 2018, Mary Schnelle President, Senior Common Room 2018, Behzad Memarzadeh

The Report accurately reflects many positive aspects of Sancta and acknowledges our strong and diverse community, where our students feel like they belong and are safe. The recommendations are constructive and we look forward to utilising them to continue to influence productive cultural change within Sancta.

Ms Mary Schnelle on behalf of the House Committee and undergraduate students From the President, Senior Common Room Sancta’s greatest strength is its community. As such we fully support the report into the culture of our College Overall, the report reflects the cohesive and inclusive nature of our community. In many ways the findings of the report will be in line with Sancta’s values. Together, we will work on making Sancta an even more inclusive community, and, in doing so, lead the way in improving College culture by implementing the recommendations, as appropriate to Sancta.

Behzad Memarzadeh On behalf of the Senior Common Room and postgraduate students

Need Support?

If the report or any findings raises any issues for you, please see our Support page on the website for further information: http://www.sanctasophiacollege.edu.au/student-life/support/

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I am so proud to have been a Sancta student. 2017 was quite a year – a year of change, community and success.

Throughout the year, we showed our red and white pride and lived the Sancta spirit each day.

We produced stellar results in Intramural, winning the women’s sporting competition, the Liane Tooth Cup and the arts competition, the Elena Kats-Chernin Cup. Our strong level of participation and inclusion in Intramural this year is a testament to all students involved.

In Intercol Palladian in Semester 2, we secured another placing with Amanda Chan’s interesting take on the topic ‘Vice’ – a sculpture of lungs made of cigarettes.

I would like to commend all students who participated in Palladian during the year, whether it be as individuals, within a team or cheering from the sidelines; your support was invaluable.

From the

SENIOR STUDENT Throughout the year, we showed our red and white pride and lived the Sancta spirit each day.

Our sporting teams worked exceptionally hard, displaying high levels of commitment, skill and endurance.

Special congratulations to Andrea Gillard and Emily Matthews, who were awarded the Rosebowl Most Valuable Player awards for Hockey and Basketball respectively.

In social events, we had an extremely successful Informal, with acts like Paces and Kinder lighting up the Quad. Perhaps the greatest entertainment of the night, however, was witnessing Dr Leech try a Mr Yeeros kebab! A huge thank you to Janice Muller, Dominique Oakley and the Social sub-committee for their countless hours of work that contributed to such a successful night.

After months of working to create a more collaborative Sancta community, this change was finally embodied in the updating of our student constitutions.

The constitutions were altered by each student body to reflect the modern and cohesive environment in which we reside, as two buildings but one College.

Thank you to Council member and alumna, Sarah Walters, for her hours of commitment to this cause.

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2017 marked the final year as Principal for Dr Leech, after 10 years of service.

I would like to thank Dr Leech for the many positive changes she has made to the Sancta community, from creating Graduate House to letting us wear pyjamas to breakfast!

We achieved so much as a College In 2017, but I think it is our attitude that brings me the most pride. Sancta is a College where students are respected, included and can feel at home. I would like to thank everyone who has made Sancta a home for me and my friends during our entire time at College.

In our time here, we have had both ups and downs, but we have shared them together. We have grown to become adults who are ready to take on the real world. If there is anything my time at Sancta has taught me, it is that young women can do anything. I wish the best of luck to all our 2017 graduands and valetants, I know they will do important things.

I would like to thank the 2017 House Committee and Senior Common Room for all their efforts and for always putting Sancta first. Thank you to all the Secretaries, for without you, the College would not be the place it is. Thank you to the RAs for being like our second parents. Thank you to the staff for all your work into making this College our home.

In the wake of the Broderick review, it is a time to reflect and be grateful for our time at the College and the immense opportunities it presents us. It is also a time to welcome change and to ensure that we respond to the needs of all students to further improve our already great college community and ensure that it is a safe home for all.

I congratulate the student leadership team for 2018 and I have every faith that under their leadership, Sancta can look forward to another successful year.

Isabella Barrett Senior Student 2017

Another year, gone.

The last few weeks of the year at Sancta are non-stop with events making it difficult to come to terms with the reality of our last weeks at College.

Here’s an insight into the final month at College: On 6 October we held our Cultural Dinner celebrating all our Palladian and Intramural competitors’ efforts. 7 October saw the Sancta Sophia Postgraduate Boat Cruise, another fantastic evening. 11 October was Rawson and Rosebowl Athletics, where we saw wonderful participation from postgraduate students yet again.

Our Rawson team participated in more events than last year and the unity and enthusiasm amongst the team was plain to see. Special mentions to Jason Pak and Elizabeth Mansourian for placing second in the triple jump and long jump respectively.

From the

SENIOR COMMON ROOM Sancta is a family, we are a tight knit community across both the postgraduates and undergraduates and this is what makes Sancta a unique place amongst Colleges at the University of Sydney.

The following night we held the annual Christmas Dinner, which is always a treat.

On 16 October we celebrated our sporting achievements at the Sports Dinner and on 20 October, the whole College partied the night away at the Sancta Formal. Finally, the Vale Dinner was held on the 25 October.

The Vale Dinner is always a bittersweet affair. It is a celebration of all students who have contributed to Sancta’s wonderful community, but also there is great sadness at seeing so many friends depart. As I said on the night, Sancta is a family, we are a tight knit community across both the postgraduates and undergraduates and this is what makes Sancta a unique place amongst Colleges at the University of Sydney.

Two days later we farewelled our Principal Dr. Marie Leech. We thank Dr Leech for all her years of service and all postgraduates, not just those that were at College in 2017, but all that have come through the doors of Graduate House, are immensely thankful for the opportunities she helped to provide for us at Sancta.

Thank you to the Senior Common Room of 2017 – Aaron, Michael, Adam, Eloise, Jordyn and Amelia. Without your help and commitment, the year could not possibly have been what it was. I also extend my sincere thanks to Isabella Barrett and House Committee.

Your willingness to work not just alongside, but together, with the Senior Common Room, helped provide a strong foundation for a fully integrated community that Sancta continues to builds towards.

Thank you also to Dr. Leech and Maryanne for their support and encouragement throughout the year.

2017 was a year of many firsts and your guidance throughout was much appreciated. I wish to thank the Council also for their engagement and support of the Sancta community. Much of the Council’s work goes on behind the scenes and does not often receive the recognition it should. We are all thankful to have a Council so engaged and supportive of each of the student bodies.

Congratulations and best of luck to Behzad Memarzadeh, as President of the Senior Common Room in 2018. I have tremendous faith in him and the rest of the 2018 team. I am looking forward to seeing how this committee furthers the Sancta community.

Lastly, the opportunities I have had here at Sancta have allowed me to grow and develop in ways that 24 months ago I would never have expected. I have made many friends and shared many wonderful memories. I will always cherish the time that I had at Sancta.

Martin Day President Senior Common Room 2017

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TEN BY TEN SNAPSHOT DEPARTING PRINCIPAL, DR MARIE LEECH REFLECTS ON HER 10 YEARS AT SANCTA. 1. Introduction of Student Support Programs There were major initiatives in terms of introduction of student support programs, including the crucially important Resident Assistant (RA) Program, revolutionising the level and depth of pastoral care for our students.

New programs extended to sport and cultural competitions; and also included many new internal events.

This is a 10-year snapshot, in 10 sections, outlining 10 areas of transformation at Sancta over the past 10 years. Each area of transformation assisted in making the College the amazingly vibrant place it is today, supporting a much expanded student community and in more diverse ways. None of this, of course, would have been possible without a team of great people – our students who worked with us every step of the way; our wonderful staff who took on the associated challenges with great interest and energy; our Council members, who provided governance and strategic support; and our Alumni and friends who contributed in so many different ways.

The 10 years are from January 2008 until January 2018. And the 10 areas of transformation are: 1. Introduction of Student Support Programs 2. Ensuring the Financial Sustainability of the College 3. Expansion: Graduate House 4. Expansion: Student Numbers 5. Expanding Staff and Governance Structures 6. Engaging with Alumni and Friends of Sancta 7. Increasing the Scholarship, Bursary and Donation Program 8. Improving Infrastructure and Amenities 9. Expanding and Streamlining our Conference and Casual Accommodation Offer.

10. Engagement and Liaison with Professional Associations.

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The Resident Assistant (RA) Program (introduced in 2009) Sancta RAs assist the Principal and Vice Principal in providing pastoral care, academic support and building a strong sense of community within the College.

Each student in College is allocated an RA. RAs are residents of the College community and are trained in emergency procedures, first aid, mental health and College operations.

RAs provide students with information, support and pastoral assistance. They also provide administrative support and security outside office hours, on weekends and public holidays by being the first point of contact for students.

The Senior RA and Senior Tutors are part of the pastoral care team. RAs are critical in providing support for first year students as they settle into College.

This program at Sancta is designed to assist the residential community to promote inclusiveness, positive attitudes, a healthy and safe environment, and to foster responsibility, respect and personal development. RAs have a high profile in the College; they are role models as well as employees of the College; they demonstrate leadership in their academic, spiritual, social, sporting and cultural pursuits.

The Academic Mentor Program (introduced in 2013 and restructured in 2016) Academic mentors have an active role in the academic community of the College.

They are appointed as academic leaders in their particular area of study (eg Nursing, Vet, Science etc) and they bring together students in the same area of study, creating vertical integration in the College and allowing younger students to interact with those more senior in their area of study. They undertake the following: >> Coordinating and hosting academic functions (eg: dinner/seminar/ workshop/ symposium) which includes at least two academics or professionals from the university or wider community; >> Collecting information on and promoting scholarships, internships, exchanges, placements and other academic opportunities throughout the year; >> Promoting skill building, sharing tips and current affairs (ie latest news, development, advancement); >> Creating vertical integration through faculty: facilitating the networking of students to generate peer support, academic mentoring, study groups and friendships (ie through interactions, seating and events), particularly for new students; >> Coordinating College Journal submissions for the end of year journal; >> Being available to students to assist with study related questions – note sharing, explaining difficult concepts; >> Taking an active role in supervising attendance and participation in the College tutorials for each faculty.

The Edge Workshops (introduced in 2016)

Spotlight on Sophs (Introduced in 2014)

The Edge Workshops are run by one of our Senior Tutors, Dr Jen Scott Curwood, and are designed to develop students’ skills over a broad range of subjects, accelerating their careers at university and beyond, and giving them ‘the edge’ in a number of skill areas.

Topics include study skills, goal setting and time management, essay writing, lab reporting, referencing, and creating a professional identity on-line. Each workshop is an hour in length and is highly interactive.

While many administrators set up incentive programs to help second-year students beat the “sophomore slump,” Sancta’s program aims to inspire leadership among sophomores.

The Anser Breaking news! Sancta is about to have an academic journal. Some eight or nine years ago, on a visit to Colleges at the Australian National University, I discovered a wonderful academic journal, published by one of the Colleges. It showcased students’ work across a range of academic areas, was peer reviewed and highly regarded by the colleges communities.

In early 2018, Sancta will publish the first edition of The Anser, our College’s academic journal. I am so grateful to the student committee members who have achieved this major milestone for the College (at the same time achieving a long-held ambition of mine).

Now in its fourth year, the Sophomore Leadership Program hopes to provide a “more defined experience” for our students.

Sancta Speaks, Sancta Sketches, Sancta Attends, Book Club Students speak about their interests and their lives; students gather to sketch under the leadership of students; students organise trips to events outside College, eg classical music concerts, art galleries; and students reflect on books they have read.

Intramural Sports (introduced in 2016) The newest of the sporting competitions for on-campus students, Intramural Sports (IM Sport) is an integral part of Sydney Uni’s distinctive residential experience.

The Intramural Sports program hosts the Thomas Whalan Cup (men’s sporting competition), and the Liane Tooth Cup (women’s sporting competition).

Intramural Arts (introduced in 2017) In 2017 Intramural Arts became a feature for residences participating in other Intramural Programs. Taking place across the year, students compete for a cup named after an alumna of the University of Sydney, Elena Kats-Chernin. Elena is an internationally regarded composer and she was commissioned to write a piece to celebrate the centenary of the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.

Designed to be an informal and relaxed competition, the emphasis of the program is to make arts opportunities accessible to as many people as possible.

PS Warm congraturlatoins to our wonderful Sancta students who won the Elena Kats-Chernin Cup in 2017. And similar congratulations to our Intramural sporting teams - our women won the Liane Tooth Cup and our men came second in the Thomas Whalan Cup.

Queen Mary Building, Abercrombie Student Accomodation, International House, Mandelbaum House, Urbanest, Sancta Sophia College, UniLodge and Sydney University Village are all member residences of Intramural Sports and the competitions and events are available to all who live there.

Sports include: Futsal, Table-tennis; Basketball; Netball; Badminton, Spikeball and Ultimate Frisbee.

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2. Ensuring the Financial Sustainability of the College Our financial analyses in 2008/2009 indicated that small Colleges (around 150 students) were simply not sustainable, that the only options available to them were to expand, to merge with another college, or to close. It is a very chilling and sobering thought that Sancta may have faced the same fate in 2017 as two of the last remaining small colleges – St Mark’s College at James Cook University closed at the end of Semester 1 2017 and Whitley College in Melbourne closed its doors at the end of 2017.

It was very quickly evident to me that Sancta was struggling financially, evident from the lack of student support programs in comparison with other colleges, evident from the lack of staff in comparison with other colleges. But also evident in terms of the need for a stronger program of renovation, renewal and maintenance of facilities.

Our initial investigations revealed the chilling fact that the College would not be financially sustainable beyond 2018. A report by the national Heads of Colleges Association, then called AHAUCHI (now University Colleges Australia), produced in part in response to queries from Sancta is worth quoting at some length.

The report, entitled ‘Growth/Merger/ Closure Activity of Smaller Affiliated Residential Colleges Over the Past Decade’ posed the question: “What is the minimum number of students a residential college should have to be viable?” and found the answer via analysis of the fate of small residential colleges over the period 2000-2010.

Quoting from the report:

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“Notwithstanding the multiple ongoing success stories amongst the smaller affiliated colleges, the growth/ merger/closure statistics on this part of the sector over the past decade (2000 to 2010) show that more than two thirds of the smaller affiliated colleges (those with 200 or fewer places) have either merged, increased materially in size or plan to increase materially in size, closed or have become university owned/operated.”

AHAUCHI conducted a national survey of all colleges and halls of residence in year 2000 (the AHAUCHI 2000 survey). The institutional response rate on this survey was in excess of 97%.

“There were 40 smaller affiliated residential colleges each of which at that time had 200 or fewer student places and that responded to the AHAUCHI 2000 survey.

“Since year 2000, of the 40 smaller affiliated colleges… (prepared from the AHAUCHI 2000 survey): >> 19 (47.5%) have materially increased their number of student places or are planning to do so; >> 3 (7.5%) have become university owned or operated; >> 4 (10.0%) have merged; >> 1 (2.5%) has closed or at least is no longer a university residential college; >> 13 (32.5%) continue to operate with much the same number of places and have no plans to increase materially in size;”

“Informal discussions with many of the smaller affiliated colleges that over the past decade have materially increased their number of student places indicate that a primary motivation for the increase was to gain economies of scale to underpin the long-term viability of the college.”

(As a postscript – it is interesting at end of 2017 to note that of the 13 (32.5 per cent) that continued to operate with much the same number, very few now remain, having since either expanded or – as in the case of two small colleges this year – have closed).

Armed with this data and our own research into Sancta finances, we embarked on a courageous plan to expand. A Strategic Planning Group was established, consisting of staff, students and members of Council; architects were employed – the wonderful NettletonTribe; funding sought – an initial loan was obtained from the University of Sydney and this was later refinanced via the Diocesan Development Fund of Parramatta; and a project manager employed – Peter Moroz from Farrell Coyne.

The result was Graduate House, thus restructuring and repositioning Sancta and giving it a new lease on life, the opportunity for long-term success via securing its financial sustainability.

3. Expansion: Graduate House The need to ensure financial sustainability led us down the expansion pathway and, after much analysis, to the building and opening of Graduate House in 2014, the single largest expansion in the history of Sancta.

We began construction in December 2012 with a tight schedule for handover just over 12 months later. It was essential that the building be ready for start of the 2014 year and, given that some postgraduates start courses in January, completion was essentially necessary before Christmas. We were blessed with a wonderfully co-operative team – builders, architects and staff working together, and overseen by an equally collaborative Project Management Team of senior staff, Council members, project managers and representatives from our then funding body, the University of Sydney. We were also blessed with pretty much perfect weather (interesting how a building project makes weather of all-consuming interest). Graduate House was handed over in perfect order in early January 2014 (on time and on budget) and so began our significantly expanded Sancta community.

We owe much to the first intake of postgraduates, there was much to learn along the way, and much to iron out and resolve – not least of which was a major learning curve in terms of providing adequate wifi and internet connections.

To the 2014 community–we thank you most sincerely for your patience (and wonderful to see more than a dozen of you stay on. We were sad to see you depart this year at the end of your courses).

Graduate House has 128 ensuite rooms (8 accessible), each with a microwave and mini fridge, whilst the common areas have full kitchens. Outdoor living includes a rooftop terrace and bbq lounge area.

Sancta’s postgraduates are diverse – studying graduate degrees such as medicine, dentistry, law and veterinary science, masters and PhDs; they are local, interstate and international.

Residents in Graduate House are offered 40 or 46 week contracts, recognising the length of study required at those levels, though many residents stay the full year.

10 Year Comparison of Undergaduate and Postgraduate numbers

4. Expansion: Student Numbers The building of Graduate House, of course, increased our postgraduate population. But interestingly, it also increased significantly the number of undergraduates – with the move of all postgraduates to the new Graduate House, many rooms were freed up in the main College building and therefore our undergraduate population increased significantly too.

350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 2008 = UG 130 = PG 17 = Total 147

2009 131 18 149

2010 143 15 158

2011 134 23 157

2012 120 40 160

2013 129 32 161

2014 172 91 263

2015 185 102 287

2016 187 91 278

2017 189 92 281

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The diagram clearly shows the ‘skeleton’ nature of the staffing structure in 2008; and the evolution of the current comprehensive structure.

Expansion and a better financial structure allowed an adequate staffing model. It is appropriate to pause here, to recognise staff: my current wonderful colleagues, an extraordinary team taking Sancta from strength to strength; and all past staff who contributed so much and in so many ways over the past 10 years.

I know it’s problematic to name some names but I simply have to name those members of the Exec staff who took us through those very busy transition years to where we are today, taking on huge workloads and carving out new roles: Jacqui Ingram, calm and gracious, quietly organising events, arranging interviews, managing the calendar, liaising with alumni – I don’t know how she did it; Terry Nixon, a tower of cheerful strength and reliability through thick and thin; Tamara Sutton, taking on the Vice Principal role and transforming it from a very part-time 20 hours per week to a wonderfully structured full-time, senior role; and Bruce Davie, theoretically three days per week in the hectic Business Manager role but giving so much to Sancta 24/7.

Sancta Sophia Building Limited (SSBL)

Finance & Bulding Committee (now two committees FRAC and infrastructure)

College Council

Governance Comittee

Finance, Risk, Audit, and Compliance (FRAC) Comittee

Business Manager

Vice Principal (0.4 FTE**)

Registrar & College Secretary

We spent much time and effort building strong relationships with the treasured members of our extended Sancta family who love and support the College and our students in so many important ways.

Alumni engagement has been a priority since my commencement. In recent years, we have increased the formal program of events for alumni and on most occasions, aim to hold these at the College. There can be no greater conversations than those between Sancta alumni who have not seen each other for many years, and who have not set foot in the College since their days as a student.

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Policy, Mission & Philosophy (PMP) Committee (now SPM Committee)

Marketing/ Alumni/ Conferences (0.8 FTE**)

Operations/ Facilities Manager Sodexo

Bursar (0.8 FTE)

Senior RA and Resident Assistants (RAs)*

Receptionist

Senior Tutors*

Tutors*

Academic Montors*

= 2008 - 2017 Staff = Additional Staff by 2017 * = Casual ** = FTE in 2008, Full time by 2017

6. Engaging with Alumni and Friends of Sancta

Infrastructure Comittee

Workplace Health & Safety / Human Resources (WHS/HR) Committee

Principal

Executive Staff

5. Expanding Staff and Governance Structures

The alumni program includes the 70s Club High Tea, reunions and an Annual Dinner which includes the Sancta Alumni Awards, which were introduced in 2013 to honour the outstanding achievements of alumni in a wide range of professional, social and personal endeavours. Each award winner demonstrates incredible dedication, a genuine commitment to service and a humility that seems to run deep throughout the Sancta’s alumni.

At the same time, we have developed nominations for our alumni for the University of Sydney Alumni Awards, with Joan Hume AM, Annabelle Chauncy AM, Christian Sauter, Dr Wirginia Maixner, Clover Moore, The Rt Hon Baroness Gardner of Parkes AM and Sr Michael Hintze being

Function & Events Coordinator (0.6 FTE)

Maintenance Staff

Guest Managers*

Handyman

Chef Manager

Alumni Relations & Donor Relations Coordinator (0.5 FTE)

Housekeeping Staff

Kitchen and Catering Staff

Housekeeping Staff

Student Staff

Archivist (0.2 FTE)

Catering Staff

Development Assistant

Contractors

recognised in the major awards in the last 10 years.

The Sancta magazine is another means by which we aim to engage alumni and these twice-yearly publications capture the pulse of the College as it is today, as well as capturing details of where our alumni are now and what they have achieved.

The 90th year of the College provided a springboard for a number of events to mark the occasion, and these were held in New York, Hong Kong and London as well as at the College.

We also marked the celebration by publishing a booklet of 90 Notable Alumni as well as launching Swifty, the biography of Mother Yvonne Swift

by Fr Edmund Campion.

7. Expanding the Scholarship, Bursary and Donation Programs 2009

2017

Scholarship Name

Available Awarded Available Awarded

Archbishop

✓

2

✓

2

Foundation

✓

1

✓

1

Entrance

✓

7

✓

19

SUSF Sport

✓

0

✓

0

✓

6

Sport Creative Arts

✓

6

JT Clarke

✓

1

Mary Smoker

✓

2

Janette Sullivan

✓

2

Pam Suttor

✓

3

Patricia Horsley

✓

2

Gwen Kennedy

✓

2

House Committee

✓

2

John Lane Mullins

✓

1

✓

3

Postgraduate Leadership

✓

3

Excellence and Participation

✓

19

House Committee Leadership

✓

3

Scholarships and Bursaries.

We recognised significant need in our student population for financial support whilst at the same time recognising that we had insufficient funds to provide this support. We were certainly lagging seriously behind our neighbouring Colleges at the University of Sydney.

A call for action, initially to our Council and then more widely to our Alumni and friends, resulted in many, many very generous donations.

How times have changed in the level of financial support that we can offer students at the College compared to the situation that existed when I first arrived.

We certainly have more ground to cover as the needs of students from rural and regional areas for assistance seems to be ever increasing. A fundamental part of our support program is to also recognise and reward students of talent– academic, sporting, cultural, leadership – since they help us sustain a culture of achievement and success in a wide array of endeavours.

✓

14

Business School / Indigenous student

✓

0

✓

0

Bursaries

✓

8

✓

20

✓

4

✓

Scholarships and Bursaries 2009

Annual Prizes

15

Total: $31,100

123

Scholarships and Bursaries 2017

Academic Mentors

Total awarded Total value

25 $31,100

$321,900

Total: $321,900 Plus Archives

Most of the donors to the College are alumni, and I owe them my deepest vote of thanks for giving to others, so they too can share in the opportunities that are afforded by living at Sancta. Many donors received scholarships in their days here and are now paying that forward in the most tangible way and directly impacting the lives of today’s students.

Private donor contributes $6,000 per annum to Archives Program (not included in the total above).

Sr Mary Shanahan Scholarship The Sr Mary Shanahan Scholarship is a major fundraising appeal launched in 2016 to honour this much-loved former Principal.

A major fundraising dinner was held for the launch and Mary’s 90th birthday marked another significant occasion to spread the word about the appeal.

Principals Portraits The Principals Portraits Project is complete. Wonderful portraits of all 12 of Sancta’s Principals are now hanging in the Dining Hall and my sincere thanks must go to Janelle Hatherly for her unstinting commitment to the project and her impressive work in capturing the leaders of the College since its founding.

The fund has $209,000 so far with pledges of $12,500 to be realised in 2018.

The first recipient will be awarded in 2018.

Barbara Walsh with her portrait in the Dining Hall

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Annual Giving An annual fundraising appeal is well supported by donors, there is often an end of year/beginning of the year smaller online appeal. In the main, funds come from major donors.

Bequests Scanning the Catholic Weekly many years ago, I noticed an article about the Cardinal Gilroy Bequest Society.

And thought how good it would be to establish a bequest society for Sancta, a way to honour those who committed to including something for Sancta in their wills. Thanks to the wonderful work of Michele Dunn in our development area, the Mother Swift Bequest Society was launched in 2014 to recognise those who indicate an intention to remember Sancta in their Will. There are now 13 notified bequestors to the College. There have been three proceeds of bequests received in that time.

In particular, the Bequest Society annual lunch has become a highlight of our calendar.

To mark the 90th year of the College, we commissioned a biography of Mother Swift by Fr Edmund Campion, and the book was launched at the Bequest Society lunch in 2016. This is an important record of a significant woman and one who contributed greatly to the wider Sacre Coeur community and the College.

John Lane Mullins Scholarship The John Lane Mullins Scholarship was established in 2016 in recognition of Lane Mullins’ philanthropic support and legacy towards the College. It was awarded for the first time in 2017 and officially launched at an event on 30 March.

The sale of the John Lane Mullins collection, which was housed in both the Sancta Library and at Fisher Library, occurred on Monday 1 June 2015 in Melbourne by Australian Book Auctions.

Proceeds stand at approx $280,000.

Stewardship and Recognition Thanking and recognising our supporters is fundamental to our fundraising initiatives.

Some ways that offer thanks include: >> Major gift donors, bequestors and regular donors are invited to attend High table at Formal Dinner in each semester. >> Major gift donors are invited to the Academic Dinner each year. >> The Annual Donors’ and Supporters’ Thank You drinks were introduced in 2014 for anyone who has donated or participated as a volunteer. >> In 2017 a Donors’ and Scholars’ Dinner was introduced. >> In 2017 a dinner for major supporters of the Sr Mary Shanahan Scholarship was introduced.

8. Improving Infrastructure and Amenities In my early years at Sancta, there was a saying that if you stood still for any length of time, you would be painted!

There was much to do in terms of upkeep and renovation and indeed, just about everything – Dining Hall, Chapel, Common Rooms, students rooms, corridors – was painted. At the same time, the changing nature of computing and communications forced us to take giant leaps in terms of technology. Sancta has moved a long way from the Phone Monitor – wifi now in every corner of our buildings and no landlines in student rooms. For many years I advocated for a vegetable garden and am so pleased to see it now take shape with lettuce, strawberries and herbs flourishing.

Roofing and guttering has been replaced and repaired.

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King singles have replaced the sinlge beds throughout the main building.

I also set about dividing the Octa Common Area – to create two very useable spaces, one a common kitchen with cooking facilities (from which there wafts aromas of baking) and a large lounge/recreation room.

There have been multiple updates of IT, I have relentlessly driven our investigations to acquire new systems.

Staff Offices: what was the Computer Room is now the Business Office; what was a strange alcove/storage area near the Octa common areas is now the Facilities Manager’s Office; what was a draughty untidy storage area is now the Vice-Principal’s office; and what was the Principal’s office and the Registrar’s office are now student rooms.

We moved to outsource catering to an external company, the kitchen servery has been revolutionised and is now fully self-serve (how we agonised over that decision!), except on Monday evenings with Formal Dinner.

The beautiful building and gardens at the College have featured in many ads, TV programs and photoshoots in recent years.

9. Expanding and Streamlining our Conference and Casual Accommodation Offer Who would have predicted that Sancta would become the location for a pop-up hotel?

That indeed is what happens now over the summer period after most students leave at end of November. >> The opening Graduate House presented the College with the opportunity to provide short term accommodation to parents, alumni visiting academics, postdoctoral researchers, and international scholars. Around 5-10 rooms are usually available and occupancy throughout the year is strong.

>> In 2014, the College entered into an arrangement with an external provider to operate a ‘pop-up style hotel’ in the College through the summer. The arrangement means that the College now derives income from its facilities in this period which supports improved programs and resources for all students and staff. >> The letting of College facilities for small meetings, training and events helps to hold student fee rises to moderate levels. Groups range in size and are spread throughout the year. Regular clients include adult education and training, visiting Japanese university students and large live in conference groups with more than 200 delegates.

10. Engagement and Liaison with Professional Associations It was an important strategic goal of mine to build strong connections with the College and university sectors, to extend the profile of Sancta and deliver benefits to our students through wider edicational and networking opportunities. During my time as Principal, I have been fortunate to have had many opportunities for links with many wonderful colleagues in Colleges and Universities, not only nationally but internationally. These included: >> Chair of the Sydney Heads of Colleges: two significant achievements were negotiating the establishment of the Colleges Consultative Committee, a set of

quarterly meetings between the Heads of Colleges with the ViceChancellor and other senior members of the University of Sydney; and negotiating a partnership with the University of Sydney Union to assist us in the running of our Palladian Cultural Competition. >> Chair of the Mental Wellbeing Group of Healthy Sydney Uni, developing projects and initiatives in collaboration with students and staff across all levels of the university. >> Member of the Executive of University Colleges Australia (UCA): UCA is a wonderful professional organisation for college Heads, working on key leadership and policy issues.

>> Member of the Association of College and University Housing Officers – International (ACUHO-I): Thanks to the Sancta Council, I was fortunate to attend two Study Tours with ACUHO-I and attend two of their international Conferences, one in Baltimore and one in Washington.

I promoted and supported student participation in: >> National Association of Australian University Colleges (NAAUC}. >> National Student Leadership Forum (NSLF).

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Vale 2017 Sancta formally farewelled students leaving the College at the Vale Mass and Dinner. We welcome them to the wider Sancta community as alumni.

Alumna and 2017 Sancta Award winner, Dr Denise Salvestro, was the guest speaker and she inspired the students with an insight into her career journey and drive to help indigenous and less advantaged people.

In a very special moment at the end of the formal proceedings, every student stood and sang as a gesture of farewell to Dr Marie Leech.

They penned this statement as the introduction to the number: “Dear Dr Leech: as a personal thank you for your outstanding years of service to Sancta Sophia, the students of 2017 would like to perform An Irish Blessing to you. The evocative Celtic poem is here set to music by the American Composer James E. Moore. We hope you enjoy it and we wish you every happiness and success in your future endeavours.”

The Award winners from the evening were:

Nita Macrae Award Isabella Barrett and Martin Day The Nita Macrae Award is in memory of Mother Juanita Macrae RSCJ, Principal of Sancta Sophia College from 1943-1957.

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The Award is presented to a student who has had at least three semesters in College, who has a consistent academic record, and who has made a significant contribution to the community life of a College founded on Christian values.

The following qualities are guidelines for selection: 1. Hold convictions/ideas and be prepared to carry these out.

2. Be willing to listen to others and learn from them; withstanding pressure when necessary.

3. Be ready to risk personal popularity if a principle is at stake.

4. Be able to look beyond oneself to the needs of others and be ready to sacrifice time and pleasure to meet these.

5. Have the ability to inspire others to participate in worthwhile activities.

6. Help others look outward as well as contributing to the life within.

Sheila Hurley Cultural Award Lucy Goodrick The Sheila Hurley Cultural Award has been made possible by the family of the late Sheila Hurley, a former Sancta student (1932-1935) and ardent supporter of Sancta Sophia College.The Trophy is awarded annually to a student for contribution to the cultural life of the

College, covering such areas as music appreciation, art and drama.

Jean Daly Oration Award Isabella Barrett The Jean Daly Oration Award was first awarded in 1987 and was donated by the St Joan’s Alliance, a Catholic women’s organisation, in memory of Jean Daly, a former President of the Alliance. It is awarded to a student for excellence in Public Speaking.

Sportswoman of the Year Award April Alcock The Trophy is awarded annually to a female student for contribution to the sporting achievements of the College, by participating in sports and/ or supporting Sancta athletes through other involvement (such as coordinating, coaching or cheering).

Sportsman of the Year Award William Adams The Trophy is awarded annually to a male student for contribution to the sporting achievements of the College, by participating in sports and/ or supporting Sancta athletes through other involvement (such as coordinating, coaching or cheering).

Yvonne Swift Individual Achievement Award Louisa Sondergeld This award is for outstanding individual achievement, either within College or in the wider community.

Louisa significantly expanded the breadth and depth of social justice and welfare activities at and beyond the College by promoting and coordinating Sancta’s participation in the Red Cross Blood Drive; volunteering at Jarjum Indigenous College; assisting in the organising and hosting of four Wisdom Forums; and volunteering and assisting in coordinating volunteers for a range of initiatives, such as Bear Cottage, the Exodus Foundation and School for Life.

Special Principal’s Award Amelia-Anne Merz

Congratulations to the Graduands 2017

Amelia significantly expanded the breadth and depth of cultural activities at and beyond the College by hosting many College initiatives, such as Book Club, Sancta Speaks and Sancta Sketches; organising cultural and celebration dinners; engaging intensively with the new Intramural Arts Competition, supporting Book Club and Sancta Sketches; hosting Sancta Attends, guiding students through a number of art exhibitions in the city; and continuing her role as Editor in Chief of The Anser, Sancta’s academic journal.

Graduands (returning to Sancta in 2018) Mekhala Anjaria Keara Chan Dorothy Tang Victoria Xu Graduands and Valetants Jessica Aneja Akash Arora Charlotte Askew Adam Birman Sasha Brakspear Jenny Chiang Mir Dawood Michael Deighton Kevin Dong Bryan Griffiths Aaron Groom Kayoko Kobayashi Kanae Konishi Eloise Lennen-Rodriguez Valeriya Matveeva Vinay Sastry Farheen Sohani Ellen Vincent Kathryn Wales Elodie Wawrzyk Eloise Whipper Lloyd Windrim Amir Zari Baf A fond farewell to all students who left Sancta in 2017. We wish you every success and look forward to seeing you at our alumni events.

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Student Leaders FOR Congratulations to the students who have been elected to leadership positions for 2018. Thank you to the 2017 committees who worked tirelessly throughout the year.

2018 House Committee Senior Student Mary Schnelle Honorary Secretary Sophia Wright

2018

Sports Secretary Lucy Edwards

2018 Senior Common Room

Cultural Secretary Lucinda Spence

President Behzad Memarzadeh

Liturgical Secretary Maggie Sarkissian

Secretary Isobel Rowe

Social Welfare and Sponsorship Secretary Josie Clarke

Cultural Rep Charlotte Webber

Senior Intercol Representative Amelia Bryant

Honorary Treasurer Jesseline Ingold

Junior Intercol Representative Emma Clark

Social Secretary Hannah O’Callaghan

Senior Rep Cristina Lucas

Treasurer Elizabeth Mansourian Sports Rep William Adams Social Rep Danielle Barnes Academic Rep Anivartha Herur

Sophomore Rep Matilda Single

Sancta’s 2018 leaders: Jesseline Ingold, Elizabeth Mansourian, Mary Schnelle, Behzad Memarzadeh, Sophia Wright, Isobel Rowe

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WISDOM Forum The Wisdom Forum tackled two highly relevant topics in Semester 2.

The first was on climate change and sustainability and featured: >> Professor David Schlosberg, Professor of Environmental Politics in the Department of Government and International Relations at the University of Sydney and Co-Director of the Sydney Environment Institute >> Caroline Pidcock, Director of PIDCOCK–Architecture + Sustainability, ambassador for the Al Gore Climate Change project and past President of the Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council, and >> Damien Giurco, Director of Innovation at the Institute for Sustainable Futures at the University of Technology in Sydney, past coordinator of the Sustainable Digital Cities Network and past Chair of the AusIMM Sustainability Committee.

The second discussion looked at Same Sex Marriage in the weeks leading up to the postal vote. Four eminent Australians at the forefront of LGBT+ rights participated in the evening which evoked thoughtful contemplation of all the issues. >> Christine Forster, Liberal Councillor in the City of Sydney, and Ambassador for Pride in Diversity’s Sapphire Program for lesbian, bisexual and transgender women in the workplace >> Father Frank Brennan AO, Australian Jesuit Priest, and past chairperson to the Australian Government’s National Human Rights Consultation Committee >> Mark Poidevin lives with his partner, Ben, in the Illawarra district.

After a period of searching, Mark is now a practicing Catholic. He was interviewed on the 7.30 report on the potential conflict between his sexuality and his Christian views on Same Sex Marriage

>> Greg Walsh, Senior Law Lecturer at the University of Notre Dame, and past lawyer for the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights

Professor David Schlosberg, Caroline Pidcock and Damien Giurco

PRINCIPALS’ PORTRAITS PROJECT FINALISED The final four portraits of Principals of the College were hung in the Sheldon Dining Hall at the end of September, thus bringing to a close a major project to capture on canvas all 12 women who have lead Sancta with such distinction over the last 90 years.

Our sincere thanks to the artist, Janelle Hatherly, who dedicated much time interviewing people, consulting about her

concepts and tracking down rare photos so she could capture the Principals’ character as well as their likeness.

The inscription plaque reads: Painted by Janelle Hatherly, these 12 portraits are her interpretation of the leaders of Sancta Sophia College – an inclusive, academic residential community that respects its Catholic history and embraces its contemporary role in society.

Theme: Warm, wise, strong women Material: Oil on canvas (2012 -2017)

Principal Dr Marie Leech with the artist Janelle Hatherly, Sr Helen Boydell’s portrait is on the left and Janice Raggio is on the right, with the dedication plaque featured centre.

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SANCTA’S AWARDS The Intramural Competition amongst University housing including Sancta expanded beyond sport this year to include a separate arts competition.

Sancta took out the Womens Sporting Competition, known as the Liane Tooth Cup up as well as the Arts Competition, being awarded the Elena Kats-Chernin Cup.

Sancta was presented with the Elena Kats-Chernin Cup for first place in Intramural Arts Competition

Sancta’s womens sports coordinators were presented with the Liane Tooth Cup for Intramural Women’s Sport.

Amelia-Anne Merz was recognised for her outstanding contribution to the Intramural Arts Competition.

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Congratulations to Andrea Gillard (left) and Emily Matthews (right) for winning the Rosebowl MVP awards for Hockey and Basketball respectively at the 2017 Intercol Sports Dinner.

FAREWELL FOR DR MARIE LEECH The students, alumni and friends of the College formally farewelled Dr Marie Leech at a drinks reception at the end of October. Chair of Council, Ms Cathleen Crossley thanked Dr Leech for her invaluable service and presented her with a gift from the College and Council.

University of Sydney Chancellor, Ms Belinda Hutchinson AM and Vice Chancellor, Dr Michael Spence each spoke of the tremendous contribution Dr Leech had made to the College and the University in her 10 years as Principal and wished her every success in her next venture.

The Fresher Choir sang Halleluiah, one of Dr Leech’s favourite songs, and the Small Choir sang The Parting Glass.

Chancellor, Belinda Hutchinson and Dr Marie Leech.

The Small Choir sang at the farewell.

Dr Leech with the three Chairs of Council during her time: Josephine Heesh, Rachel Launders and Cathleen Crossley

Dr Marie Leech shares a moment with Gabrielle Vella who sang in the Fresher Choir

Michael Duan and Aaron Yang in the Small Choir

Vice Chancellor, Dr Michael Spence with Dr Marie Leech

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Sr Mary Shanahan’s

90TH BIRTHDAY PARTY Over 120 alumni and friends gathered to celebrate Shan’s 90th birthday at a cocktail style function in the Sheldon Dining Hall in early November. True, it was over a month before her official birthday, but it kicked off the celebrations in fine fashion.

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We were privileged to have ‘Shan Fans’ – Justices Michael Kirby (who, that day, flew in from Korea for the event), Jackie Gleeson and Natalie Adams all reflected on how much Mary had touched their lives and the lives of so many others.

Mary asked that donations be made to the Sr Mary Shanahan Scholarship Fund in lieu of gifts. Donations can be made online here: http://www.sanctasophiacollege.edu. au/support/sr-mary-shanahan-rscjscholarship-appeal/

CONDOLENCES

Congratulations

We extend our thoughts and prayers tp the families of these recently departed members of the Sancta community.

Congratulations to former Chair of Council and alumna, Rachel Launders (FR ‘86), who was named Corporate Lawyer of the Year at a formal awards ceremony in Alice Springs on Thursday 16 November.

Julia Nanette (Nan) Kelly, 7 December 1924–20 August 2017 “She was kindness personified, indefatigable, a connector of people, great fun, always interested in the other person, always available, a woman of great resilience, empathy, humour and common sense”.

These were the words used by many to describe Nan Kelly, member of the College Council from 1977 – 2000, great friend of the Society of the Sacred Heart, of RSCJ and of all things associated with them. At her funeral on August 27, Sr Anne McGrath RSCJ paid tribute to a woman of friendship, godmother to 14 children, teacher and mentor. Among her many achievements in a life of giving, Nan played an impartial role in bringing about the fusion of two Alumnae Associations of Kincoppal and Rose Bay at the time of the amalgamation of the two schools, and leading to the foundation of the Sacré Coeur Association of New South Wales in 1975. As Chair of the KRB Council, she managed the process for the appointment of the first lay Principal.

An active Member of the Sancta College Council, she was honoured for her contribution to the College by being made a Fellow by the Council. Nan was much loved and will be greatly missed by many.

Dr. William (Bill) Philip RYAN OAM 29 September 1930–21 November 2017, husband of alumna Patricia (Standish), father of Denise Jones and grandfather of alumnae Kate, Liz, Abbie Jones passed away on 21st November at Nowra. He was a devoted family man and served as a General Practitioner to the Shoalhaven Community for almost 60 years.

Mrs Jean Thatcher (Loneragan) FR’31 passed away in September.

The ACC Australia in-house lawyer awards represent the most prestigious recognition of excellence within the in-house sector and are the only awards Rachel Launders with judged exclusively by the in-house legal husband Paul Clark community. Winners are recognised for their excellence and demonstrated agility in meeting the demands of an increasingly complex commercial environment.

Rachel was recognised for her role as General Counsel and Company Secretary at Nine Entertainment Co. Her role took on very real significance in April 2016 when four staff members from 60 Minutes were arrested in Beirut and Rachel was pivotal in leading Nine’s response to those events.

George Mickhail (PG ‘90) recently married Trish Davis (FR ’84), a true Sancta wedding.

The Sancta staff family grew by one with the birth of Thomas Ronnie Sunderland, on 30 August. Thomas weighed in at 3.83kg. Mum, Louise Sunderland (our Conference and Events Coordinator) and baby Thomas are doing well.

MY LAST MAGAZINE This is my last Sancta magazine. By the time you receive your copy I will have left the College after almost five years in my role as Marketing and Development Manager. It’s time for me to take on a new challenge.

I want to thank all the staff that I have worked with over that time, they made my working days a pleasure. Being a small team, we all shared many roles and were always willing to support one another.

To all the tremendous people I have met – the students, alumni and particularly the donors, I cannot thank you enough for so warmly embracing me. I will miss seeing you all deeply.

I hope I have had the opportunity to say good bye to as many of you as possible. For those who I was not able to reach, I would like to offer my warmest wishes. I look forward to keeping up with happenings at Sancta.

Michele Dunn

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Thank You As a means of expressing our thanks to the many people who have contributed to Sancta this year, we held a drinks reception at the Union, University and Schools Club in late November, where student Molly Windsor, who’s family has a long connection with the College, spoke of the impact her scholarship has had for her.

Here is a snippet of Molly’s speech, “My connection with Sancta goes back to the very beginning. My great-great uncle, Dr Walter Burfitt, was Sancta’s first Chair of Council. He played an integral role in setting up the foundations of the College. Additionally, my grandmother Mollie Windsor (nee Burfit), aunty Penelope Rowe (nee Windsor) and three first cousins have been students of the College. Consequently, it is only fitting that Sancta was my college of choice...

“Being awarded a scholarship at Sancta is a huge privilege and honour.

It has enabled me to be part of a diverse culmination of individuals who each bring something unique to the

community. It was only a few days ago that I was speaking to a resident at another Sydney University College who wished that her College took more steps to encourage a more diverse group of residents to apply. This made me realise how lucky I am to attend Sancta as our diverse community has allowed me to broaden my horizons and experience new things. I have friends from Dubai, Perth, Young, Canberra and Byron Bay, each of whom are very different.

However, they all bring knowledge and experiences from different walks of life.

Something that I am very grateful for as each of them, in their own way, have played a huge role in enriching my view of the world…

“It is definitely safe to say that without your generous support, I, together with many other Sancta students, would not have had the opportunity to thrive in such a special community. I hope my speech tonight has cemented the fact that your continuous support to Sancta has contributed to making it a place that is one of a kind. Your support has

transcended the simple benefit of giving students a place to live and study, to much more valuable lessons which have deeply enriched each of its student’s lives. You are individuals who have and will continue to ‘walk in wisdom’. So, on behalf of all students who are recipients of your support, I’d like to thank each and every one of you, we hope we have made you proud.“ Alumna and donor Therese Catanzariti also spoke of the reasons for her support, defining how important her time at College was in shaping the person she is today and expressing her desire for other students to have the same tranformative experience to take them further in their path in the legal profession.

Thank you to all our very generous supporters. The power of your generosity is changing the lives of many young people at Sancta. Your gift is not only for today but is an investment in the future.

The numbers of Sancta’s supporters have again grown steadily this year and with the help of alumni and friends, over 110 students at the College received some financial support. Thank you to each and every donor who supported these students in 2017. Your kindness and generosity have touched many lives.

Ms Natalie Adams Mr Andrew Bell Dr Margaret Bermingham Mr Tim Bishop Mrs Julia Blackwood Ms Elizabeth Boustead Ms Shayne Brown Ms San Mary Bryan Dr Monica Bullen Ms Elizabeth Burns Ms Sue Burrows Dr Ann Bye Fr Edmund Campion Mrs Diana Carmody Ms Therese Catanzariti Ms Therese Chauncy Ms Paula Choi Mrs Elizabeth Clarke Ms Julianne Cleland Mrs Christine Clough Ms Lucy Cracknell Mr Stephen Crisp Ms Cathleen Crossley

Dr Peter Cunich Sr Margaret D’Ath Mrs Marian Diesner Ms Flora Dixon Mrs Marea Donovan Ms Jane Doolan Ms Catherine Duncan Ms Michele Dunn Ms Penelope Earp The Mansourian Family Miss Dominique Finley His Eminence Archbishop of Sydney, Most Rev Anthony Fisher OP Mr Gordon Galt Ms Jann Gardner & Mr Tony Cavanagh Baroness Trixie Gardner Prof. Maree Gleeson OAM Mrs Deanna Goddard Ms Mary Goodacre Mrs Mary Susan Gore Mrs Elizabeth Haddad

Mrs Alison Hagley Ms Elizabeth Hannan Ms Annie Harrison Mrs Juanita Hattersley Ms Phillipa Hayes Ms Josephine Heesh Mrs Margaret Hetherton Ms Gwen Higgins Mrs Kinvara Holder Ms Patricia Horsely Ms Carolyn Housego Mrs Judy Hungerford Ms Liang Chiung Ing Mrs Genevieve Kairaitis Dr Colleen Kane Dr Sue Kelly Mr Morgan Kelly Ms Jennifer Laffan Ms Sarah Landers Ms Rachel Launders Ms Audrey Lee Dr Marie Leech Mrs Elizabeth Loneragan

Dr Ann Long Mrs Margaret MacNamara Ms Susan Madden Dr Jane Mah Ms Naomi Malone Ms Wendy Mason Mrs Kathryn Mason Ms Sarah Mayo Mr Howard McCallum Dr Karen McKay Ms Clover Moore Dr Alexandra Murray Ms Margaret Musico Dr Nicole Newsome Mr Keith Nutting Senator Deborah O’Neill Ms Jo Phillips Dr Selina Quilty Ms Bridget Quirk Mr David Radford Mrs Janice Raggio Prof. Margaret Rose Mr Gerard Ryan

Mr Ramesh Sastry Dr Bernie Schedvin Mrs Susan Sheridan Mrs Robyn Smith Ms Bridget Smith Ms Alison Stephen Dr Ann Stephenson Ms Pam Suttor Miss Izumi Takahashi Ms Louise Walsh Ms Sarah Walters Miss Jingren Wang Dr Pauline Warburton Ms Simone Whetton Mrs Patsy Withycombe Mrs Gem Wolstenholme * Plus 4 donors who wish to remain anonymous

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this list. If you believe there has been an error or oversight, please accept our apologies and contact us at developmentassistant@sancta.edu.au

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REGIONAL, RURAL AND REMOTE STUDENTS HAVE ALWAYS BEEN AT THE HEART OF SANCTA A particular focus for the start of 2017 was providing scholarship and bursary support for regional, rural and remote students to the value of $1500. There was such demand for this level of assistance that we are again appealing to our community for help. We realise that bursaries need to be at a minimum of $2000 to address rising costs of living and studying in Sydney.

We would like to ask as many alumni and friends as possible to help these students by making a contribution of any size. Every cent will be directed to these scholarships and bursaries.

Any contribution from you, no matter how big or small, will make a real difference and an immediate impact.

Today, the College is still home to a majority of students from regional, rural and remote areas, who pursue the opportunities afforded them by a university education. It is one of the College’s greatest strengths.

You can assist these students enormously through a gift to the scholarships and bursaries program. A donation of $2,000 will provide a full bursary to a student in financial need.

Please consider supporting Sancta’s students for 2018 by making a donation to the scholarships and bursaries by 28 February.

The College needs to confirm scholarship and bursary offers by 28 February to provide incoming students with some certainty about their financial commitment for the year.

Molly Windsor speaks about the impact of her scholarship

Payment options

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Direct Deposit Sancta Sophia College Principal’s Account Westpac BSB 032 030, Account Number 75 0001

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Please include the word EP15 donation and your name in the payment description for accounting purposes

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Cheque Money Order Please make cheques/Money orders payable to Sancta Sophia College

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Please accept my gift of: $50

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Donations of $2 or more are tax deductible in Australia I would like to allocate my gift to:

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Card Number: _ _ _ _ | _ _ _ _ | _ _ _ _ | _ _ _ _

Scholarships and Bursaries

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Please return this form to Sancta Sophia College, 8 Missenden Rd, Camperdown NSW 2050 or scan and email to Shanelle Kennedy, developmentassistant@sancta.usyd.edu.au

Cardholder’s signature:

or donate online www.sanctasophiacollege.edu.au/donate-to-sancta

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Fourth Row: Ethnie Xu, Charlotte Askew, Maraia Pickering, Ellen Vincent, Eleanor Buckley, Alexandria Everett, Sophie O’Toole, Mekhala Anjaria, Sasha Brakspear, Isobel Rowe, Katie Wales, Gabrielle Perry, Ellie Solomons, Megan Harrison, Claudia Hunter, Isobelle Fox, India Rich, Hannah Bhindi, Casey Griffiths, Katie Chittick, Alice Schwager, Bridie MacPhail, Alice Hamblin, Tianyi Song

Fifth Row: Molly Windsor, Madeleine Watson-Reeves, Lucy Cumming, Rebecca Egan, Samantha Crisp, Beatrix Torpey, Georgia McGuiness, Lucy White, Julia Davis, Jayanthi Ramiah, Caitlin Chant, Megan Pearce, Martha Shikhule, Ella Goldsmith, Lucinda Spence, Isabella Clift, Georgina Griffiths, Laura Choo, Sheena Vallabh, Georgina Booth, Jacinta Oates, Therese Kelly, Lilli Thompson, Ziyuan Huang

Sixth Row: Alexandra Touw, Anli Joubert, Jessica Mockler, Dipti Shankar, Katelyn O’Reilly, Lindsay Liu, Charlotte Inwood, Fleur Connick, Matilda Single, Hannah O’Callaghan, Dani Barnes, Ellie Evans, Louisa Sondergeld, Ruikun An, Caranina Colpaert, Amanda Chan, Siobhan Yu Min, Minhua Liang, Der Ching Tan, Mahindra Ramani, Kaushik Mulukutla, Anivartha Herur, Claire Steven, Emma Clark

Back Row: Alexander Lubis, Lachlan Hegarty, William Adams, Behzad Memarzadeh, Andrew Leigh, Victor Chen, Vaughan Greenberger, Apurv Yadav, Andrew Honda

Sancta Sophia College 2017

Seated: Markarid Sarkissian, Charlotte Webber, Janice Muller, Lucy Bell Bird, Mary Schnelle, Lucy Maher, Amelia-Anne Merz, Elizabeth Collins, Madeline De Dassel, Hannah Barnett, Isabella Barrett, Maryanne Pidcock (Vice Principal), Dr Marie Leech (Principal), Aime Saba, Martin Day, Aaron Yang, Michael Duan, Madigan Aranda, April Alcock, Georga Knight, Amelia Bryant, Francesca Earp, Adam Birman, Eloise Lennen-Rodriguez, Gabrielle Karagiannis

First Row: Sophia Wright, Sharon Wang, Harleen Aulakh, Rita Adraos, Katrina Thomas, Kayoko Kobayashi, Rachel Kotow, Katie Parkes, Gabrielle Vella, Alexandra Robson, Ellen Brown, Izumi Takahashi, Linna Jefferson, Spandana Mandaloju, Dorothy Tang, Ruby Meegan, Marguerite Biasatti, Elizabeth Mansourian, Allana Colonne Robertson, Hannah Barrett-Lennard, Jessica Ambler, Millicent Gordon, Jesseline Ingold, Elsa Presslaber

Second Row: Lucy Edwards, Natalie Ball, Molly Morgan, Josie Clarke, Grace Pang, Kathryn Gill, Hailey Pendergrass, Yuqing Chen, Methmi Perera, Natalie Law, Astrid Utami, Gwyneth Au, Paris Slade, Sharon Chang, Tiffany Kwong, Sabrina Liu, Katherine Huang, Viola Yu, Phoebe Chadwick, Georgina Brandon, Annabelle Carter, Megan Findlay, Arshiya Azeem, Athiya Azeem, Elizabeth Laurence

Third Row: Felicity Galbraith, Morgan Overmass, Olivia Lalak, Matilda Macqueen, Belinda Banaszak, Aashima Juneja, Isabella Cooper, Nikola Chung, Georgina Harrison, Georgette Archer, Annika Cavanagh, Katie McCalman, Isabella Franco, Asha Murnane, Taylor Bramble, Alice Morrison, Prue Gordon, Veronia Andrawes, India Anderson, Clare Downes, Angela Di Giorgio, Saarah Hassen, Alisa Pitaksit, Victoria Xu

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