Spotlight on

Past Pupil of Distinction Nominee...

Doctor Rosemarie Joyce csb  

Rosie is a Brigidine Sister whose deep commitment to Catholic education is evident in her experience in Catholic secondary education as both teacher and Principal. She has held the position of Principal at four Secondary Colleges, Kilbreda being one of these. Rosie has undertaken the responsibility of Provincial Leader of the Brigidine Sisters. She is a Past President of Catholic Religious Australia, the peak body representing religious congregations in Australia and Chair of the Board of Management of the Cyrene Centre, which provides a free counselling service for families affected by substance abuse.

Rosie holds a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Education, Graduate Diploma in Education (Religious Education), Master of Education (Administration), Master in Canon Law, Licentiate in Canon Law and a PhD. Rosie is currently a judge, the only (ever) female judge, for the Melbourne Regional Marriage Tribunal (Victoria and Tasmania) and a judge in The Court of Appeal for Australia and New Zealand.

Rosie is a lecturer in Canon Law at Yarra Theological Union (University of Divinity) and Head of the Department of Mission and Ministry, a Canonical Adviser for Religious Congregations and Member of the Formation Committee for the Divine Word Missionaries. She is in a unique position of influence with regard to the seminarians from the various religious orders. In her response to her nomination Rosie wrote, “The motto ‘Strength and Kindliness’ has always been special for me and I chose it for the inscription on the ring I received at my final profession of vows. It prompts me to take a decisive stance on issues which affect the welfare of others and challenges me to live my life with kindness and compassion.”

Rosie’s extensive experience in numerous positions of leadership and engagement has enabled her to contribute to making a difference in the lives of others, using her strengths and canonical expertise in a variety of ministries, all of which have as an aim to promote the dignity of all, especially the most vulnerable.