Mannix College Leadership Dinner
On 12 February, Mannix College hosted its inaugural Leadership Dinner, bringing together key figures from across the College community in a celebration of leadership, service, and shared purpose. The event fostered meaningful connections and collaboration, reinforcing a collective commitment to shaping a strong and vibrant future for Mannix College through service.
Guest of honour, The Hon. Blair Boyer MP, South Australian Minister for Education, Training and Skills, and 2002 Mannix College Student Society (MCSS) President, returned to Mannix, offering a powerful reflection on the lifelong impact of student leadership. His presence underscored the enduring bonds of the Mannix experience, inspiring the next generation of student leaders to embrace their roles with confidence and purpose.
The evening provided a unique opportunity for mentorship and connection, uniting members of the College Council, Foundation Council, governance committees, staff, chaplains, the Mannix Old Collegians’ Association (MOCA), and Monash University leadership with the 2025 Student Leadership Team. New student leaders engaged with those who support and guide them, gaining invaluable insights, encouragement, and professional connections to support their leadership journey.
Among the distinguished guests were Professor Sarah McDonald, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Experience) and Senior Vice-President, and Simon Kupec, Interim Chief Operating Officer of Monash University, along with senior staff from the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne. Their presence reinforced the deep and lasting relationships between Mannix College, Monash University, and the Catholic community, highlighting a shared commitment to education, leadership, and service.
Leadership Lessons
The night’s guest of honour and keynote speaker, The Hon. Blair Boyer MP, South Australian Minister for Education, Training and Skills, served as the 2002 Mannix College Student Society (MCSS) President. He reflected on his time at Mannix and the enduring strength of its community.
“I still remember my first day—clear as a bell. The friends I made in my first week of O-Week are still my friends. In fact, I’m married to a woman I met that first week at Mannix.”
He emphasized the power of connections built at Mannix: “I am constantly astonished by the Old Collegians who pop up in professional circles, doing incredible things”
Looking to the future, he affirmed, “The future of colleges is bright. The skills developed here—resilience, communication, teamwork—are more valuable now than ever.”
He also highlighted the role of colleges in shaping well-rounded individuals: “Living at Mannix teaches you life skills beyond academics. It builds independence, adaptability, and the ability to work with all kinds of people—qualities that employers seek and that stay with you for life.”
Principal Andrew Swan expressed his deep appreciation for Blair Boyer’s return to Mannix, stating, “We are incredibly grateful to Blair for making the time to come back to Mannix and share his journey with us. His commitment to public service and the vital work he is doing for communities at large is truly inspiring. It is always special to welcome back an Old Collegian who embodies the values we instil in our students.”
Leadership as a Service
Mannix leadership is more than a title—it is an act of service, deeply rooted in the College’s Catholic values. Whether on the College Council, the Mannix College Student Society (MCSS), or governance committees, every leader plays a role in shaping the College experience and serving its community. Leadership at Mannix embodies the call to serve others with humility, integrity, and a dedication to the common good.
Principal Andrew Swan expressed the College’s deep appreciation for all who contribute to its success, stating, “Mannix thrives because of the dedication of so many—our staff, volunteers, and friends. Our College is better for your contributions and support, and we are immensely grateful.”
Milestones and Moments
A key highlight of the evening was the official opening of the College’s new servery, a symbol of progress and investment in the student experience. 2025 MCSS President, Polly Lewis, had the honour of cutting the ribbon, marking a new chapter in the College’s commitment to fostering a welcoming and well-equipped environment for its students.
The Mannix College Leadership Dinner was more than a celebration—it was a call to action. By bringing together student leaders and experienced mentors, the event reinforced a shared commitment to ensuring Mannix remains a place of connection, resilience, and opportunity for all, guided by the values of service and community.
