IAN POWELL MEMORIAL AWARD

The Ian Powell Memorial Award honours the memory of the School’s former Deputy Head by recognising exceptional contributions to the Canberra Grammar School community. This year, the award was presented to two outstanding recipients: Heather White and Kate Carroll, the School’s dedicated nurses, whose commitment to health and wellbeing has left an indelible mark on our community.

Heather and Kate exemplify the values of compassion, professionalism, and care that lie at the heart of CGS. In the Health Clinic, they offer more than medical expertise—they provide a safe and nurturing environment, ensuring that every student, staff member, and visitor receives thoughtful, efficient, and empathetic care. Whether addressing minor injuries or managing complex medical situations, their calm presence and unwavering dedication have become a source of reassurance for all.

Beyond their clinical responsibilities, Heather and Kate’s influence extends throughout the School. They actively collaborate with staff and families to raise awareness of health matters, support students with ongoing medical needs, and ensure the success of school events with their reliable presence. Whether comforting a student or responding to emergencies at sporting events, their actions consistently reflect a commitment to the holistic wellbeing of our community.

Stephen Byron Award

Heather and Kate’s behind-the-scenes efforts often go unnoticed, but their impact is far-reaching. Through their tireless work and exemplary care, they embody the School’s values, inspiring colleagues and setting a high standard of excellence. Their contributions are a testament to the spirit of service, kindness, and professionalism that enrich the CGS experience for all.

We thank Heather and Kate for their outstanding service and congratulate them on this well-deserved recognition.

This award, in recognition of Stephen Byron’s extraordinary service as the former Chair of the School Board and his exceptional commitment to others, is dedicated to staff whose outstanding dedication, excellence, or extraordinary commitment to care and wellbeing surpasses the norm, serving as an inspiration to all.

This year, the recipient of the Extraordinary Care and Service Award is Jenny Hunter. As Head of the Girls’ Boarding House, Jenny has transformed it into a second home for over 50 boarders, fostering an environment of trust, warmth, and inclusion.

Jenny’s commitment to care and wellbeing goes above and beyond. Always available, day or night, she supports students through challenges ranging from homesickness to health emergencies, offering comfort and stability when it’s needed most. Her empathy and dedication to each student’s mental and physical wellbeing reflect her unwavering commitment to the CGS community.

Notably, Jenny has played a pivotal role in supporting Indigenous Scholars Programme graduates, ensuring they overcome adversity to achieve their goals. Her efforts inspire students and staff alike, setting a benchmark for excellence in leadership, compassion, and innovation within the boarding community.

Through her tireless contributions, Jenny Hunter embodies the core values of CGS: Compassionate, Confident, Creative, Curious, and a true Citizen of the World. We are proud to recognise her extraordinary impact with the Stephen Byron Award for 2024.