With their formal schooling coming to an end, this week has been an opportunity to celebrate the graduating Year 12 Class of 2023. We reflected on their spiritual journey at the Graduation Mass, recognised their achievements at the Graduation Assembly, reminisced about their memories together at the farewell breakfast, and honoured the exceptional Year 12 Award winners for 2023.
In his heartwarming address, Principal Andrew Baker emphasised that the departing cohort had left an incredible mark on the Nazareth community. He expressed his hopes for the Year 12 graduates, that their education at Nazareth has provided the fertile ground for them to become leaders for the world God desires. He spoke of the rich and nourishing conditions that Nazareth offers for personal growth, and emphasised the importance of making good choices when life presents crucial decisions. He assured our Year 12 students of the value and love they’ve received, and that they will always be welcome at Nazareth.
Mr Baker proudly shared, “I am blessed to have had the opportunity to know you. You are amazing young people with generous hearts and warm personalities, and you have been simply a delight to be with each day. So, I sincerely thank our students for who they are and wish them every blessing as they continue their journey to be people of faith and meaningful contributors to a better society.”
2023 Valedictorian, Tiana Cavallaro, shared how this year’s college theme, “Companions on the Journey,” has resonated deeply with their cohort, capturing the essence of their experiences.
“Our journey consisted of highs and lows, with highs that were made so much sweeter by celebrating together, and lows that were made that little bit easier with the support of each other. We experienced a variety of unexpected changes throughout our middle years, but our dynamic as a cohort did not waver. If anything, it became stronger as whatever we experienced, we experienced together.”
Tiana encouraged her fellow graduates to remember the valuable lessons learned at Nazareth – to be brave, show empathy, and work hard, with the belief that everything will fall into place.
College Captains, Tatijana Popovich and Olivia Harwood, also reflected on the theme of “Companions on the Journey” expressing their gratitude to the countless companions who had helped shape their educational journey.
“We would love to thank every single person who has helped to shape the people we are today extending this to those in this room and those who aren’t,” shared Olivia and Tatijana.
“Although this time is sad, it’s also exciting! A new chapter of our lives is about to start and we can’t wait to see how you all change the world… Let’s never forget the lessons we have learnt and the companions we have made along the way. We carry them in our hearts as we head on our way. Into our next journeys, no matter what you choose to do just know success is in you. Your life is your story and the adventure ahead of you is the journey to fulfil your own purpose and potential,” they continued.
As we bid farewell to the Nazareth Graduating Year 12 Class of 2023, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to them and celebrate their exceptional achievements, both as a class and as individuals. May your future endeavours be filled with success, love, and a deep sense of purpose. You are indeed the embodiment of the values we hold dear at Nazareth, and we have no doubt that you will go on to make a positive and lasting impact on the world.
| Catherine House Award | Jessica Fusco |
| Dominic House Award | Yianna Michalantos |
| Dominic House Award | Emily Capelle |
| MacKillop House Award | Ada Skalonja |
| McAuley House Award | Jordana Leonello |
| Romero House Award | Ben Bynoe |
| Community Award, Catherine House | Thomas Dillon |
| Community Award, Dominic House | Jude Hall |
| Community Award, MacKillop House | Jackson Cavallaro |
| Community Award, MacKillop House | Taelen Cresswell |
| Community Award, McAuley House | Tylah Macro |
| Community Award, Romero House | Angelina Vetrone |
| Chris Hoey Award | Alexis Noronha |
| Nazareth Award | Demi Bacasetas |
| Principal’s Award | Tatijana Popovich |
| AMPOL Best All-Rounder | Olivia Harwood |
| Hindmarsh Shield | Cherrie Cheung |
| Australian Defence Force Long Tan Award | Tayte Ryan |
| Australian Defence Force Future Innovators Award | Arthur McLynn |
| The Order of Australia Association Student Citizenship Award | Lauren Logozzo |
| Mark Butler School Award | Samuel Turner |
| Vocational Education and Training Awards | Michael Loizos & Patrick Piscioneri |
| 2023 Valedictorian | Tiana Cavallaro |
