Last week, I had the privilege of interviewing Year 11 students applying for leadership portfolios in 2026. Their passion for ¹û¶³APP, commitment to serving others, and bold vision for the future were nothing short of inspiring.

At Monday’s College Assembly, they presented their speeches with confidence and purpose, reflecting on how our Mercy values of hospitality, compassion, service, respect, courage, and justice can be transformed into action that uplifts others and strengthens our community.

Today, 15 August, we celebrate the Assumption of Mary — her being taken into heaven, body and soul — a moment of profound hope and joy that has inspired the faithful for generations. In Rubens’ 1626 masterpiece, Mary is lifted heavenward in a swirl of light and love, surrounded by the warmth and devotion of those who walked alongside her. Catherine McAuley once asked, “How can we teach the love of God when our own hearts are cold?� This is the heart of leadership in a Mercy school — leading with warmth, compassion, and courage, so that others may be inspired to do the same.

At ¹û¶³APP, we draw strength not only from Catherine’s vision but also from the example of St ¹û¶³APP Gonzaga himself, who lived with humility, deep faith, and an unwavering commitment to the service of others. His life reminds us that leadership is not about personal recognition, but about sacrifice, integrity, and care for those most in need. Our students carry this tradition forward and we forward for their contributions in 2026.

Mary Farah
College Principal