Our People
What does it mean to lead a Catholic school with courage in a profoundly changed world, where faith is increasingly a minority position in public life?
This was the central question which framed this year’s Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong (CEDoW) system-wide professional learning day, held at Magdalene Catholic College, Narellan, featuring a powerful keynote address by renowned author, journalist, and moral philosopher Professor Stan Grant.
Speaking to an audience of diocesan school and Catholic Education Office leaders, he brought a unique perspective. As a Wiradjuri, Kamilaroi, and Dharawal man with a strong Catholic faith, he has navigated both the highest echelons of international journalism and the realities of global conflict. He drew on these experiences to speak about truth-sharing, Catholic identity, belonging, love, and connectedness.
Aligned with CEDoW's strategic focus on investing in leaders, participants were invited to draw on Grant’s knowledge and experiences to make sense of the world. He challenged leaders to reflect on the role of Catholic schools today, and how they can use their voice and faith with confidence in a changing world where people of faith are increasingly in the minority.
Grant spoke directly to the heart. He challenged the leaders to be "the rock in the rapids of the modern world, which may otherwise wash religion away," while never losing sight of their responsibilities as Catholic leaders.
In his welcome address, CEDoW Executive Director of Schools, Peter Hill, reflected on the spirit of the day, sharing that “curiosity is the oxygen of learning” and acknowledging the privilege of working alongside leaders who “lean into learning together.”
He also reflected on Grant’s 2023 decision on the ABC’s Q+A program to step away from the media spotlight. “After viewing that footage, it was evident to me that this is what Catholic leadership looks like—this is what we look like at our best," Mr Hill said.
He invited senior leaders to explore “what it means to be a 'public Catholic'—to speak authentically from the Catholic tradition with clarity and conviction, and to articulate our point of difference and value proposition.”
Grant’s address was a reminder to those present that true leaders don't seek to divide. Instead, they work tirelessly to bring peace and build bridges through welcoming the stranger.
Participants reflected that the experience challenged them to be a more authentically Catholic leader.
“This professional learning has challenged us as leaders to be more authentically Catholic. If this can be achieved, our students will have a greater sense of their Catholic identity and therefore be beacons of hope for the future.”
“The day was extraordinary. Stan’s input was exceptional and thought-provoking. The processes provided to align the content to our work as leaders were outstanding.”
“It has encouraged educators to deepen our understanding and how to support students' understanding of identity, belonging, truth-telling and respectful dialogue.”
