On Monday 12 February 2024, the Strathcona School community came together at St Paul’s Cathedral to celebrate the 100th Foundation Day and the Commissioning of the new Principal, Lorna Beegan.
The morning was filled with a warm buzz as students, staff and VIP guests entered the beautiful Cathedral on Flinders Street.
The service began with the arrival of the Official Party while the crowd harmoniously sang Seek Ye First, followed by a welcome from St Paul’s Cathedral and an opening prayer from Chaplain Reverend Janet Costello.
Lorna Beegan was then welcomed by the Strathcona Community and gifts were presented to her by 2024 School Captain Isabelle Gemmell, OSA President and Board Member, Laura Loftus and Long Serving Staff Member, Diana Little as a representation of Vision, Wisdom and Faith.
Following this, Reverend Daniel Bullock alongside Board Chair, Jocelyn Furlan then commissioned Strathcona Girls Grammar’s 11th Principal, Lorna Beegan marking a new era of leadership and dedication to the school’s cherished history. Before Lorna addressed the community, Divine Instructor was sung led by the Centenary Choir and Orchestra.
Lorna’s empowering address touched the audience and provided a reflection on the past but also a vision for the future. Power of Your Love was then sung followed by a performance of Grow, Little Tree from the Centenary Choir.
As the service grew to a close guest speaker, alumna, past parent and past staff member Dr Liz Rushen AM shared an informative account of Strathcona’s rich history, adding depth and perspective to the celebratory proceedings.
To conclude 2024 Faith Leader Naomi Attalla and Chaplain Bron Arnott shared a blessing and benediction and the Official Party recessed to Be Thou My Vision.
Following the official proceedings, VIP guests were welcomed to Morning Tea to celebrate the momentous event with refreshments and a special ‘100’ cake.
