Letter from the Principal

Dear Mannix Community,

After considerable reflection and discussion with my family, I have decided that the time is right for a new chapter in our lives.

On 18 December 2026, I will conclude my service as Principal of Mannix College, following my five-year appointment by the Archbishop of Melbourne.

While Sophie and I are excited about what lies ahead, this decision has not been easy.

Mannix has been woven through every stage of our adult lives. I first arrived as a student. It was here that Sophie and I met. Many of our closest friendships began here. Later, it became the place where we have raised Theo, Charlie and Maggie.

For our family, Mannix has never simply been a workplace, a residence or a place of study. It has been home.

Today, though, is not really about me. It is about thanking the people who have made Mannix the remarkable community it is.

Our students have led, served, volunteered, challenged, supported and inspired one another. Our staff have devoted themselves to creating an environment where young people can thrive. Our governors, alumni, donors, volunteers and friends have generously invested their time, expertise and generosity to ensure future generations enjoy the same opportunities.

Together, you have lifted Mannix higher.

In recent years, our community has worked hard to ensure Mannix remains a safe and vibrant community where every student can find belonging, opportunity, friendship, support and purpose. That achievement belongs to all of you.

Mannix has shaped much of my life. I arrived as a student, later had the privilege of serving as President of the Mannix College Students’ Society, then as President of the Mannix Old Collegians’ Association, and ultimately as Principal.

At every stage, I inherited a community that others had built, strengthened and sustained before me. I have always seen myself as one of many stewards of that legacy.

For that reason, while this decision is bittersweet, I also look forward to returning to life as an Old Collegian. Just as others made space for me to contribute over many years, it is now time for me to make space for the next chapter of Mannix.

Early next year, I will have the privilege of commencing as Head of College at University College, The University of Melbourne.

The College enters its next chapter with outstanding students, dedicated staff, committed alumni and supporters, strong governance, and a clear sense of purpose. I have every confidence that Mannix’s best years are still ahead, and Sophie, our family and I will be cheering you on every step of the way.

In the coming months, the College Council will commence a search for Mannix’s next Principal.

There is still much to look forward to between now and December. For our residents, the care, support and opportunities you have come to expect from Mannix remain unchanged. I look forward to celebrating our residents’ Semester 1 academic results, cheering on our students through intercollegiate sport, enjoying the MCSS Play, Christmas in July, our Formal Dinners, and the many everyday moments that make this community so special. Our staff and student leaders remain focused on helping every resident thrive, and I look forward to continuing to serve this remarkable community for the remainder of the year.

The greatest strength of Mannix has never been its buildings, although we’ve certainly given them a good deal of attention in recent years. It has always been its people.

Thanks to the efforts of countless students, parents, staff, alumni, volunteers and supporters, I believe that strength is greater today than ever before.

Thank you for your friendship, your support and your commitment to this remarkable College. Sophie and I will always be grateful for what Mannix has given our family, and we will continue cheering Mannix on for many years to come.

With gratitude and every good wish,

Andrew Swan (Swanny)
Principal