Mary MacKillop Today has appointed Hilary Johnston-Croke as the new chair of its board, following the conclusion of Kieran Gleeson’s tenure.
Mary MacKillop Today continues the legacy of St Mary MacKillop by supporting vulnerable communities in Australia and overseas through education, health, and livelihoods.
Mr Gleeson served as chair for six years, guiding the organisation through a period of extensive growth and transformation.
Beginning his appointment just before the onset of COVID-19, he oversaw Mary MacKillop Today at a time when the organisation was still in its infancy.
Under his leadership, the organisation strengthened its governance, expanded its international development programs in Timor-Leste, Fiji, Peru and Australia, and more recently achieved a successful reaccreditation with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
During his time as chair, the board also broadened its skills and diversity, ensuring strong, future-focused stewardship of the organisation’s mission.
New chair Ms Johnston-Croke has served on the board since 2020 and brings extensive experience across education, corporate governance, and leadership.
She has built her career as an educator and business leader. A scientist by training, she has held senior leadership roles including principal and CEO of Kincoppal–Rose Bay School of the Sacred Heart, one of Australia’s leading independent schools, as well as principal of Catherine McAuley, Westmead.
She is a member of the board of the University of Notre Dame Australia and has been a member of other boards.
In October, Ms Johnston-Croke travelled to Timor-Leste with Mary MacKillop Today chief executive Jane Woolford, visiting the organisation’s local field team working on the Livelihood Program.
Community members showcased family gardens and crops developed through a thriving cooperative model that now supports farmers growing and marketing coffee, vanilla, and other agricultural products. She also met with Mary Mackillop employees who support the education projects.
Speaking on her appointment, Ms Johnston-Croke said: “It’s a privilege to lead an organisation that empowers communities to create lasting change through education”.
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Mary MacKillop Today Announces New Chair of the Board (Mary MacKillop Today)
