From the Principal 

The Quiet Strength of Humility 

Some of the most revealing moments in a person’s character are not found in moments of great challenge, but in the way we respond when things go our way and when they do not. 

Over recent weeks, I have been reminded of this as I have announced the students who have been successfully appointed to leadership positions for 2026/2027. What has struck me, and made me particularly proud, is the grace with which our students have received this news, both those who have been successful and those who have not. 

For those appointed to leadership, there has been understandable excitement and pride. Yet alongside this, I have observed an awareness that being chosen is not simply a recognition of achievement; it is an invitation to serve. There is also something deeply encouraging about seeing young people receive recognition with gratitude, while remaining conscious of the feelings and aspirations of those around them. 

Equally, I have been impressed by the maturity of those who have not been appointed. Disappointment is a natural human response when something we have hoped for does not eventuate. Yet there is considerable strength in being able to acknowledge that disappointment, congratulate others sincerely and maintain a commitment to contribute generously to the life of the College. 

These experiences have prompted me to reflect on humility as one of the most important, yet often understated character strengths we can nurture in young people. 

Humility is not about thinking less of ourselves, but about having the confidence to recognise our strengths without believing they make us more important than others. It is knowing that our achievements are rarely ours alone, and that opportunities carry with them a responsibility. 

I have previously written about the importance of kindness, and I continue to believe it is fundamental to the way we live and lead. Humility sits alongside kindness. It allows us to celebrate another person's success without comparison, to receive recognition without entitlement and to meet disappointment without losing our sense of self. 

At Loreto, we want our young women to be ambitious and courageous, but also grounded and gracious. Leadership is not ultimately about a title or position. Some of the most influential leadership happens quietly, through generosity, integrity, encouragement, service and the willingness to share the space with others. 

Perhaps this is the quiet strength of humility: it enables us to be confident in who we are, while remaining genuinely interested in and generous towards others. It is a quality that will serve our young women long after their time at Loreto, whatever paths they choose to follow. 

New Chair 

I am writing to advise the College community of an important change to the leadership of the Loreto College Marryatville Board. 

At the conclusion of 2026, Ms Sam Hellams will step down as Chair of the College Board, following three years of dedicated service as a Board Director, including the past two years as Chair. 

On behalf of the College community, I extend my sincere thanks to Sam for her commitment, wisdom and generosity of time. Her leadership has been greatly valued, and we are grateful for the contribution she has made to the ongoing development and governance of the College. 

I am also pleased to announce that Ms Gabrielle Canny, a current Board Director and proud Loreto Old Scholar, will become Chair of the College Board from the beginning of 2027. 

Gabrielle joined the College Board in 2025, bringing extensive professional and leadership experience to the role. She has been a legal practitioner for more than 40 years and has made a significant contribution to the not-for-profit sector. Gabrielle has also held senior leadership positions with the Legal Services Commission of South Australia, including as Director and Chief Executive Officer. 

Gabrielle’s deep connection to Loreto, together with her considerable professional experience and commitment to the College, will be a great strength as she takes on this important leadership role. 

I look forward to working with Gabrielle and the Board as we continue to advance the mission and strategic direction of Loreto College Marryatville. 

Kylie McCullah 

Principal