Marist-Sion celebrated

Teachers and students from Warragul's Marist-Sion College were honoured at the Diocese of Sale Catholic Education Ltd (DOSCEL) Leadership Dinner last month.

Several members of the Marist-Sion community were awarded at the event for their commitment to Catholic education.

Among the award recipients was Religious Education (RE) teacher Fiona McRae, who received a Spirit of Education Inspiring Faith Award. Ms McRae is in her thirteenth year at the college and has taught RE across all year levels and supported the College's Youth Ministry and Social Justice programs.

Head of the college's Science Department, Nicole Vanatta received a Service Award in recognition of her commitment to Catholic education for more than 25 years, as did Decon Mark Kelly the College Chaplain.

Marist-Sion graduate Lucy Hickmott and current student Brydie Cunningham also received awards. Miss Hickmott was recognised for her dedication to her studies through the Elizabeth Hunt Scholarship, which will assist her in her studies at the Australian Catholic University. While Miss Cunningham was recognised for her student leadership achievements through the Father James Wall Burs Leadership Achievement Award.

Ms Cunningham was one of only six students in Australia to receive the award, which will assist her with school fees and other expenses she incurs while undertaking Years 11 and 12.

Marist-Sion principal Lisa Harkin said it was wondering to see staff recognised for their contributions to the college.

"One of our founding fathers, Theodore Ratisbonne wrote, 'I want you to have hearts as big as the world. The heart expands into the flame of love and this flame must set other flames alight'," she said.

"These quality teachers have ignited a love of learning in our students and enabled them to achieve great things."

Ms Harkin said both student awardees are "curious and adaptive young women" who have embraced learning at Marist-Sion.

"Their love of learning, sense of responsibility and agency is evident through every interaction, every day," she added.

Very Reverend Peter Slater, Vicar General Diocese of Sale, awardees Miss Brydie Cunningham, Deacon Mark Kelly, Ms Lucy Hickmott and Ms Maria Kirkwood, Director of Catholic Education Diocese of Sale pose for a photograph at the awards night.