Redfern Jarjum College and Jesuit Education Australia are delighted to announce the appointment of Katherine Zerounian as the next College Principal, commencing in January 2023.
Katherine’s previous roles in leadership and education include leading the Religious Education faculty and Faith in Service program at Saint Ignatius’ College Riverview. She has built many partnerships with Aboriginal communities through the Faith in Service immersion program at Riverview College and has a deep personal commitment to Aboriginal communities and the work of reconciliation. Katherine will continue Jarjum’s strong commitment to its students, the College community and local partners, bringing an understanding of traditional learning practices that explore the local land, culture and community. She was also founding member and Program Director of Matesabroad Foundation, an organisation created to support the education of children living in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Katherine Zerounian will commence as the next Principal of Redfern Jarjum College in January 2023.
Katherine holds a Masters in Educational Leadership from Australian Catholic University, a Bachelor of Teaching and a Bachelor of Community Welfare/International Social Development from the University of Western Sydney. She is well versed in the Catholic faith, Jesuit ethos and identity and Ignatian pedagogy.
Katherine’s leadership and strategic skills have been integral to the successful delivery of a Faith in Service program at Saint Ignatius’ Riverview for many years, the coordination of curriculum across Religious Education and Geography and the staging of many conferences and seminars that showcase her areas of expertise. She is also a keen sportsperson, having been the assistant coach of the First XI soccer team at Riverview College, and playing soccer herself.
The College is delighted to have someone with Katherine’s commitment, passion and deep understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture to guide the College in its next stage of development. The College will be building on the magnificent work of Matt Smith, current Principal and Katherine will be commencing at the College in Term 4 to ensure a smooth transition from Matt before his departure. We hope all in our community will join in welcoming Katherine to Jarjum College in Term 4.
We will farewell Matt Smith at the end of this year with deep appreciation for all he has given to the College especially as Principal over the last four years.
John Allen, Chair, Redfern Jarjum College
Beth McConnell, Chair, Jesuit Education Australia
Feature photo by Nicelocal