Leading Melbourne girls’ school, Strathcona Girls Grammar has announced the appointment of Lorna Beegan, who will take up the role of the school’s 11th principal from January 2024.
Beegan, who is currently the Deputy Principal of Strategy and Innovation at Genazzano FCJ College in Kew and Head of the Genazzano Institute, succeeds Marise McConaghy, who led Strathcona Girls Grammar for nine years.
Prior to joining Genazzano FCJ College in 2019, Beegan had tenures at Perth College and St Hilda's Anglican Girls School in Perth, also contributing to co-educational settings including the likes of St Mark's Anglican Community School.
Born and raised in Ireland, Beegan brings a wealth of impressive academic credentials to her new role, including a Master of Educational Leadership from the University of Western Australia, degrees from the University of Dublin and University College Dublin, an Erasmus Scholarship at the University of Utrecht in The Netherlands, and courses at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.
Jocelyn Furlan, Strathcona Girls Grammar, Board Chair said Beegan’s expertise lies in applying theory to practice within a dynamic, secure, and progressive educational setting, fostering a culture of curiosity, creativity, collaboration, and active global citizenship among students.
“Lorna’s exemplary executive accomplishments will build upon the exceptional educational leadership implemented by her predecessor, Mrs McConaghy, over the past nine years,” Furlan said.
“We look forward to her joining us on campus in 2024 and have every confidence that Strathcona will continue to innovate and prosper under her leadership.”
Speaking on her new role, which coincides with the school’s centenary year, Beegan said is dedicated to leading a school community “where education is a vibrant, lived experience – a foundation for both personal development and lifelong learning.”
“I aim to ignite a deep-seated passion for knowledge and a commitment to global citizenship in everyone, acknowledging the distinct value everyone brings” she said.
“Together, we will cultivate a culture where the school values of respect, integrity, compassion, courage, and empowerment are taught and actively practised, equipping our students for the world of today and tomorrow.”