It was a privilege to come together on Saturday, 31 May, with past and present staff, students, parents, and Gerard’s beloved family to honour and celebrate a truly dedicated colleague, teacher, coach, father, grandfather, and friend.
On behalf of the entire Merici community, we warmly congratulate Gerard on this outstanding achievement.
Gerard began teaching at Merici College in 1986 and, apart from a 6-month secondment in 1997 to St Clare’s as Maths Coordinator, has only taught here.
Apart from teaching Maths, Gerard has taught for short periods of time in Science, Physical Education and Religious Education. Gerard was the Penola Coordinator from 1997-2002, as well as Acting Maths Coordinator and PE Coordinator.
In late 2002, Gerard was appointed as the Acting Assistant Principal and then appointed Assistant Principal from 2003 through to 2013. He was also Acting Principal in Term 3 of 2010. From 2014, Gerard has been teaching Maths in a part-time capacity. He received a standing ovation from the entire school when we recognised him at yesterday’s St Angela Merici Day mass. We didn’t have angel wings for 40 years of hours accrued but did give him a set of diamond wings (500 hours of service).
Gerard is an exemplary member of the wider community as well. Outside of his school life, Gerard has been a National representative middle-distance athlete, involved in coaching and the administration of athletics and cross country carnivals. He has been the ACT School’s Cross-Country Coach since 1999. This has involved the organisation of 4 National Cross-Country Championships held in Canberra, as well as Competition Manager for the World Cross Country competition held in 2023 held in Bathurst. Gerard has officiated at the 2000 Olympics and 2006 and 2018 Commonwealth Games. As a valued member of the sporting community, Gerard is a life member of Athletics Australia and Athletics ACT. I have glimpsed his competitive nature at Friday afternoon trivia, bare foot bowling and AST preparation and data improvement. He wins every time!
In recognition of Gerard’s outstanding contribution and commitment to our community we named a classroom, the Gerard Ryan Mathematics room in 2023 to create a lasting symbol of his commitment to our community. It is a privilege to gather this evening with past and present staff, students, parents and his beloved family to show our appreciation of such a dedicated colleague, teacher, coach, father grandfather and friend.
Congratulations and thank you Gerard!
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Catherine Rey, Ann Cleary and Trazel Scott for sharing their cherished memories of working with Gerard over the years. Our sincere appreciation also goes to the Canteen staff and Hospitality students for preparing and serving the delicious canapés.
Anna Masters
Principal
