Gemma Thomson

Dean of Mission and Catholic Identity, Iona Presentation College
Master of Education (Religious Education) 2019
Graduate Diploma of Education (Secondary) 2014
Bachelor of Commerce / Bachelor of Arts 2011
Gemma is currently studying a Doctor of Education in Fremantle.

How did your studies at Notre Dame prepare you for your career?

I cherished the fact that my lecturers and tutors genuinely knew me; my name, my interests and my aspirations. They inspired me to challenge myself and connected me with some very valuable industry partnerships throughout my degrees.

Since graduating, I have been very fortunate to work in two major fields: Mining and Resources as a Human Resources Advisor and Catholic Education as a Teacher and Leader. The Global Financial Crisis and a significant personal life event prompted me to change direction in my career and my study at Notre Dame provided a firm foundation for both phases of my career.

My connections with Notre Dame have remained strong over the years as I have continued my academic journey whilst working full time. I have been fortunate to have been invited back to share my learning with undergraduate students and to lecture pre-service teachers in the area of Social Justice.

What advice would you give others thinking of undertaking further study or a postgraduate degree?

I would always recommend writing your own story. There are many well-intentioned people in the world who will suggest your best path forward based on your skills, talents and interests, but only you deeply know what makes you come alive as an individual. Don’t be afraid to take the road less travelled; it may lead you to the most amazing places.

What would you consider to be the greatest achievement of your career?

I have been fortunate to have several celebration milestones throughout my career, but I would say the greatest achievement was the bravery to career switch in my mid-twenties. Many people told me I was crazy, but I followed my gut, and it has paid dividends tenfold. I am so grateful that I was brave enough to take the leap.

What do you consider to be key traits of a good leader?

There are many important characteristics of a good leader, but three key ones for me would be authenticity, compassion and vision. Working with a leader who is true to themselves, who “walks the talk”, has a heart and is person-centred, but also has a clear vision for the best possible future is inspiring.

If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why?

I would like to have dinner with Julie Andrews. The Sound of Music speaks to my heart in so many ways, her philanthropic work inspired me, and I think she is the most wonderful, elegant woman of integrity.

If you had an extra 10 hours a week, what would you do?

I love travel; exploring new cultures, tasting new cuisines, and visiting different locations enriches my life in so many ways. Whilst I may not be able to travel too far each week in 10 hours, I would happily spend the time learning to cook different dishes from the around, reading travel blogs or researching my next holiday!

Alumni in Focus is brought to you by the Advancement Unit. The views, opinions and positions expressed by the speakers and those providing comments are theirs alone, and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or positions of The University of Notre Dame or any employee thereof.