Distinguished guests, alumnae, staff, students and members of the college community came together on Sunday 17 November to celebrate the official opening of the new student services area at Genazzano FCJ College. The state-of-the-art space will support student wellbeing, accessibility and engagement, ensuring the College remains a welcoming contemporary Catholic school.
College Council Chair Robert MacIsaac highlighted the importance of this new space, which brings together modern design and the college’s rich 135-year history.
‘This development is more than just new infrastructure,’ said Mr MacIsaac. ‘It reflects our commitment to creating an environment where students are supported in their personal and academic growth.’
The new area—which was blessed by Fr Brendan Reed—features improved accessibility and a revitalised courtyard, cleverly connecting the college’s historic Wardell and d’Houet buildings. It’s designed to meet the evolving needs of students, ensuring the college remains a place where tradition meets innovation.
The project was made possible by the generous support of the Faithful Companions of Jesus (FCJ) Sisters, whose 2020 Bicentennial Grants enabled the vision to become a reality. Principal Mrs Loretta Wholley acknowledged the sisters’ vital contribution, saying, ‘This project embodies the sisters’ legacy of compassion and service.’
The space includes areas named to honour the college’s heritage: Vaucluse, named after the first FCJ convent school site in Australia, and Parassy Plaza, after the home of founder Marie Madeleine d’Houet. A new statue, Companionship, created by artists Gillie and Marc, was also unveiled, symbolising the relationship between faith and education.
‘This new space reflects our vision for a brighter, more inclusive future for all our students,’ said Mrs Wholley. ‘It’s where students are empowered to grow into strong, compassionate leaders.’
Genazzano FCJ College continues to invest in its future with ongoing initiatives in sustainability, academic excellence and community building.
Banner image: (from left) College Principal Mrs Loretta Wholley, Sr Barbara Brown-Graham FCJ and Sr Helen Buckley FCJ. (Photo courtesy of Genazzano FCJ College.)
