Catholic Education Rockhampton has farewelled Leesa Jeffcoat at a Mass of Thanksgiving at St Joseph’s Cathedral, Rockhampton, as she concludes her time as director after more than two decades in the role.
Catholic education sector leaders and representatives from across Queensland and Australia attended the Mass, together with many priests and religious, government representatives, principals, Catholic Education directors and leaders.
Hundreds of students and staff filled St Joseph’s Cathedral for the Mass, and many more from Catholic schools across the diocese in centres from Mackay to Bundaberg and west to Longreach tuned in via livestream.
Ms Jeffcoat said she had been humbled to have served as Diocesan Director of Catholic Education for the past 23 years, but she knew this was the right time for a new director to lead the ministry.
“I am sad to be ending a time in my professional life that has given me great personal and professional satisfaction, but I leave feeling truly blessed for the opportunities afforded to me through my lifelong association with Catholic Education as a student, teacher and leader,” Ms Jeffcoat said.
Rockhampton Bishop Michael McCarthy expressed deep appreciation for Ms Jeffcoat’s unwavering support of the diocese, for the Church and all Catholic Education staff.
“Within the 10 kindergartens, 39 schools and colleges under her direction, Leesa has done an extraordinary job of ensuring that our young people receive the very best in Catholic education and are supported by excellent teachers and staff on their faith journey,” Bishop McCarthy said.
Miss Jeffcoat officially concludes her time at the end of 2024 following a period of leave during Semester 2, with her successor, Michael McCusker, commencing in the role in July.
FULL STORY
Mass of farewell for Leesa Jeffcoat AM (Catholic Education Rockhampton)
