13 December 2024

Jesuit and Companion School Leaders Conference at Loyola College

Late in 2024, Loyola College had the honour of hosting the annual Jesuit and Companion School Leaders Conference, a significant event that brought together leaders from eight schools within the Jesuit and Companion Schools Australasia (JACSA) network. The conference, held from December 2nd to 4th, was a vibrant gathering aimed at fostering leadership grounded in the Ignatian tradition.

The conference was a melting pot of ideas, experiences, and aspirations. Senior student leaders participated in a series of workshops, keynote speeches, and collaborative sessions. The focus was on enhancing leadership skills, sharing best practices, and deepening the understanding of Ignatian values in educational leadership.

Key Highlights

1. Workshops and Sessions: Various workshops were conducted, covering topics such as the story of Ignatius, ethical leadership, community engagement, and innovative educational practices. These sessions provided a platform for leaders to exchange ideas and strategies that can be implemented in their respective schools.

2. Keynote Speakers: The conference featured several keynote speakers, including renowned educators and leaders in the Jesuit community. Their talks focused on the challenges and opportunities in contemporary education, the role of Ignatian spirituality in leadership, and the importance of fostering a sense of global citizenship among students.

3. Networking Opportunities: One of the key aspects of the conference was the opportunity for participants to network and build relationships with their peers from other schools. This networking is crucial for creating a supportive community of leaders who can collaborate and support each other in their educational missions.

4. Student Leadership: A special segment of the conference was dedicated to the senior student leaders. These young leaders participated in leadership training seminars designed to equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to lead their peers effectively. The sessions emphasised the importance of leading with integrity and a commitment to social justice.

The conference concluded with a reflective session where participants shared their insights and takeaways from the event. Many expressed a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of their roles as leaders in Jesuit and Companion schools. The commissioning ceremony highlighted the importance of continuing the dialogue and collaboration initiated at the conference and a commitment to serve justly and with authenticity.

Participants have left inspired and equipped to lead their schools with a renewed commitment to the values of St. Ignatius. The event underscored the power of collective leadership and the enduring impact of Jesuit education in shaping compassionate and effective leaders for the future.