An insight into our Ministries - St. Joseph's College, Echuca

We asked two of our ministries to nominate a staff member or student who represents and embodies the values and vision of Kildare Ministries. St Joseph's College Echuca chose their Front Office team. 

"Hospitality at St. Joseph’s starts at our front desk. Nothing is more important than the first impression people receive about our College and would like to acknowledge our ‘front of house’ staff.

Kildare Ministries' core values are extremely evident in the way that these staff interact with carers, students and colleagues. Justice – when sorting out fees or bussing issues. Wonder – celebrating often and spreading lots of joy by the cheerful way they go about their work. Courage - when dealing with difficult situations. Compassion – when working with sick students or needy families. Hope – when they solve problems and bring purpose into the lives of others and in 2019 our focus value of Hospitality.

Calling the school by phone or walking through the front door is always a cheerful, hospitable and experience for all. People are always greeted in a cheerful and welcoming manner and their requests or issues dealt in a patiently and professionally.

Thank you ‘front of house’ staff for all that you do to make St. Joseph’s College the hospitable place that it is known to be."

Michael Delaney

Principal

We also asked St Joseph's leadership team to answer a few questions on their fearless leader. Here is what they had to say:

What words would you use to describe Michael?

Michael’s staff spoke in glowing terms about the qualities he brings to his role.  They described him as: extremely kind, dedicated, person-centred, spiritual, respectful, loyal, visionary, inspirational, authentic, methodical, calm and reasoned.

Why is Michael so inspiring?

Michael’s questions are evocative and challenging.  He leaves the door open for walking through and exploring big ideas.  He constantly communicates that there is no ‘I’ in team and we are all on this journey together.

What is a funny thing that Michael has done?  

Michael is not above embarrassing himself with the occasional game of “Oh [dear]” (card game) with the team.

What does Michael do that demonstrates to the community that he is a ‘Brigidine’?

Michael models the Kildare Ministries values daily and always leads by example.  His searching and learning is never done and through words and actions he “walks the walk” of strength and kindliness.

How does Michael give expression to this year’s KM value of Hospitality?

Michael has been committed to placing ‘Hospitality’ at the forefront of our thinking this year through continually referencing the value when presenting to staff, students and the broader St Joseph’s community.  More than that, he leads the way by the way he lives hospitality.  His door is always open and he gives an abundance of time to consideration of matters of importance to staff.

What does Michael do to relax?

Michael loves a game of golf and enjoys spending time with his family.  As a guilty pleasure he indulges in trashy novels over the holidays.