‘Dream, Discover, Do.’

Academic Assembly Address to College. - Introduction to 2025 College Theme ‘Dream, Discover, Do.’ 5th of February, 2025.

Introduction

Good Morning everyone,

This year we wanted to place a big emphasis on the College’s mission statement. That is, to nurture individuals of conscience, competence and compassion. We are eager to announce the new theme for 2025 is Dream, Discover, Do. That is to dream of what it is that you want to be this year, discover how you can achieve it, and take action to do what you desire. This theme calls for all of you to place belief in yourself and create a positive outcome for you inside and outside of the College.

Dreaming is the first step to achieving greatness. St. Ignatius once dreamed of becoming a noble knight, seeking honor and glory. However, after being injured in battle, his path changed, and he discovered a deeper calling—to serve others and dedicate his life to God. His dream transformed, leading him to establish the Jesuits, an order that continues to inspire education and reaches every corner of the globe.

Like St. Ignatius, we are called to dream big. Whether it’s excelling in academics, pursuing a passion, or making a difference in our community, our dreams shape our future. Dreaming is about believing in what’s possible, setting goals, and having the courage to take that first step.

So, what are your dreams? What goals inspire you? St. Ignatius' journey shows us that dreams can evolve into something greater than we ever imagined. How can your talents, combined with faith and imagination, help build a better future? Dream big, believe in yourself, and embrace the possibilities ahead—because your dreams have the power to shape the world. Take that first step, even if it feels scary.

Discover calls us to explore and immerse ourselves in the opportunities that present themselves to us, in order to understand who we are as individuals and thus unlock our potential.

We see this step demonstrated through the life of St Ignatius, particularly during his lengthy period of evangelisation and prayer in his cave at Manresa. In his time there, Ignatius developed the Spiritual exercises, now a key Jesuit practice to guide self reflection, evaluation and wellbeing. What happened at Manresa was extremely formative in the rest of Ignatius’s life, by discovering his strengths and outlining his goals, it gave him passion and purpose for his future actions.

Reflection is vital for personal growth and development, to help see our strengths and successes as well as our areas that need improvement. When was the last time you took a moment to stop and re-evaluate where you’re at?

By reflecting, we are able to make more guided decisions which help us to get involved in things that we are passionate about and thus, excel in.

We are so fortunate to have endless opportunities here at the College which allow for us to thrive, whether it’s performing in this year’s musical or trying out for the footy team or putting a bit of extra effort into your studies. We urge you to seize these chances so you can reap the rewards!

The doing or the action phase is the third step, and vital to bringing everything together. As the old saying goes “actions speak louder than words” and it’s all good and well to talk about doing something, but if this talk isn’t backed up with purposeful action then it is meaningless.

In Saint ignatius’ life he spent ample time in deep contemplation after his injury at war, he weighed the advantages and challenges of embracing a life of faith, considered the controversy and how he might be viewed by his peers. However the key to Ignatius’ story is that he followed up on his contemplations, and used his values to guide him. He went and took the contentious path and did what he thought was right in founding the Jesuits, and leaving a life of knighthood, honor and glory behind.

This year what actions are you going to take to better yourself? Are you going to step away from the societal norms and expectations of your peers, and be yourself?; are you going to challenge your mate after they make an offensive comment?; are you going to dedicate more time to working on yourself?; are you gonna tell your mates that you love them and you appreciate them? Whatever it may be, remember that “actions speak louder than words”.

Be brave. Be smart. Don’t hesitate. Just do..

We hope “Dream, Discover, Do” becomes a mindset that guides you through this year and beyond, encouraging you to approach life with curiosity, confidence and purpose. You are on your own journey. Dream big, discover new opportunities and do so by taking action. As St. Ignatius once said, “Go forth and set the world on fire”.

Thank you.