From the Principal
Many MSCW students know that I enjoy collecting stories about interesting people and significant moments in history. In particular, I am drawn to stories of remarkable women. I share these stories because I want every student to understand a simple but powerful truth: each of them has the capacity to make a difference.
Making a difference does not always involve a headline-making achievement or a moment of international recognition. More often, it is found in everyday acts of courage: pursuing a passion, challenging injustice, standing up for what is right, or persevering when the path ahead is difficult. History is shaped not only by extraordinary moments, but by ordinary people who have the courage to act.
A few weeks ago, while preparing my address for our Year 12 Graduation Ceremony, I came across the work of Sita Sargeant, founder of She Shapes History. The title immediately resonated with me. Of course, women shape history. They always have. Yet for much of history, many of their contributions have gone unrecognised, untold or underestimated.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, while living in Canberra, Sita began uncovering stories of extraordinary Australian women whose contributions had largely been overlooked. Determined to change this, she launched She Shapes History as a one-woman walking tour. Today, it has grown into a national social enterprise that shares the stories of women whose influence helped shape our communities, culture and country.
Through her work, Sita has helped bring attention to women such as Kathleen Butler, often described as the “godmother” of the Sydney Harbour Bridge; Pearl Gibbs, a tireless advocate for Aboriginal rights; Gloria Smythe, whose innovative swimwear designs transformed Australian aquatic sport; Marion Mahony Griffin, whose architectural vision was instrumental in the design of Canberra; and Joyce Barry, a pioneer for equal employment opportunities for women.
While their achievements span different generations and fields, they share something important in common: courage.
These women were resilient, determined and persistent. They continued to pursue their goals despite barriers, setbacks and opposition. They believed they could make a difference and they did. They shaped history.
At MSCW, these are the qualities we seek to nurture in every student. We challenge our young women to be courageous, to be resilient, to be restless for excellence and to use their gifts in service of others. We want them to recognise that they, too, have the ability to influence the world around them.
As our Year 12 students complete their HSC examinations, we celebrate not only their achievements but also the young women they have become. We are immensely proud of them. They have approached challenges with determination, supported one another with generosity and embraced opportunities with confidence and purpose.
To our graduating class, congratulations. We know that each of you is capable of great things. More importantly, we know that each of you will continue to shape history in your own unique way.
To every MSCW student, my hope is that you face the future with confidence and self-belief. Know that you are strong, courageous and resilient. Know that you are kind, resourceful and capable of making a meaningful difference.
You are Marist women of action.
You are capable, committed and compassionate.
You are empowered to pursue your dreams, serve others and live our motto of “Goodness Above All”.
My challenge to each of you is simple: be courageous enough to leave your mark on the world.
Keep shaping history.
God bless,
