Lauretta Graham receives 2026 CaSPA Excellence in Leadership Award
It is with great pride and joy that we acknowledge two outstanding CEDC school leaders who were recognised at the Catholic Secondary Principals Australia National Conference 2026, held in Sydney from 7–10 July under the theme of purposeful and faith-driven leadership.
We warmly congratulate Lauretta Graham, Principal of Newman Catholic College, Smithfield, on being named the recipient of the 2026 CaSPA Excellence in Leadership Award. This prestigious national award recognises a Catholic secondary principal who has demonstrated high levels of leadership across a broad range of areas related to Catholic secondary education, including Catholic identity, learning, community, and service.
Lauretta’s recognition is a wonderful affirmation of her deep commitment to Catholic education, her faith-filled leadership, and her sustained contribution to the growth and flourishing of school communities. We also congratulate Lauretta on being acknowledged for 25 years of service as a Catholic Principal—a remarkable milestone that speaks to her dedication, courage, vision, and enduring service to students, staff, families, and the Church.
Those present at the awards dinner witnessed a particularly moving moment when Lauretta’s thank you speech received a standing ovation. This generous response was a fitting tribute to a leader whose work has inspired many and whose contribution continues to reflect the very best of Catholic educational leadership.
We also warmly congratulate Kerry Manders, Principal of St Mary’s Catholic College, Woree, who received a $2,000 Professional Development Bursary. Kerry will use this bursary to contribute to her study tour at KU Leuven in September. This opportunity reflects Kerry’s ongoing commitment to professional growth, formation, and the strengthening of Catholic education through learning, reflection, and engagement with international perspectives.
These achievements are a source of great pride for CEDC. They remind us of the calibre of leadership within our schools and the generous commitment of our Principals to the mission of Catholic education. Please join me in congratulating Lauretta and Kerry on these well-deserved recognitions.
We give thanks for their leadership, their service, and the witness they offer to our shared mission of forming young people in faith, hope, learning, and love.