From the Principal

Wisdom of others

It was a great thrill to welcome back many of our students to the College this week. So many of our students and staff have been quite magnificent during the recent challenges and it has been lovely to witness the interaction this week between members of our community.

I often receive wonderful insights from Loreto and Jesuit networks and Fr Tom Scirghi SJ from Fordham University in New York is a regular visitor to the College. Fr Tom recently forwarded an article on the type of leadership required during the current pandemic.

Father Joe McShane SJ, President of Fordham University was asked:

“What do you think are the most important elements of leadership?”

“That’s a tough question,” he replied. “I think you have to begin with self-knowledge. Number two, you have to know what your priorities are. Number three, you have to be wise enough to ask for advice. And four, you have to be humble enough to accept it.

And if you are able to do those, you’ll be a leader. A good leader? Maybe. A great leader? Possibly.”

There have been many elements of good and great leadership at all levels in Australia and internationally over the past few months. Decisions that would normally take many months have been made promptly because urgency has required immediate action. Sometimes correct decisions are made and occasionally mistakes are made.

At a local level, our College has depended entirely on expert advice on health issues. It is not our area of expertise. However, it has also been important for the College to express an opinion in the public domain on education issues. Do we always get it right? Of course not; but our Jesuit and Loreto heritage certainly encourages our students and staff to have the confidence to express an opinion even though it may be contrary to a prevailing view.

John XXIII College is a very good place to be!

Passing of Terry O'Connor

The College community was very saddened with the passing of Mr Terry O’Connor last weekend. Mr O’Connor was an outstanding contributor to many organisations including John XXIII College. As Council Chair from 1979-1992, he expertly guided the College through the amalgamation process and its formative years. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Annabel, children Simon and Dimity and family on the passing of a wonderful person.

Robert Henderson

Principal