Old Scholars

Mary Cecil Tenison Woods (nee Kitson)  (1893–1971) was a South Australian lawyer and social activist. She was the first female lawyer and public notary in South Australia.

Dame Roma Mitchell was a barrister, judge, Governor of South Australia and Chancellor of the University of Adelaide. She was the first woman to hold these high profile positions.

Rosemary Taylor was responsible for evacuating more than 4000 orphans during the Vietnam War. She spent her life working with the poor and underprivileged, initially in Southeast Asia.

Ainslie Murray is an architect, academic and artist whose career has taken her to London and Germany. She is currently a lecturer at the University of New South Wales.

Renate Henschke is a costume, production designer with an extensive career in film, television and theatre. She has worked in costume departments both locally and internationally.

Dr Eva Balan-Vnuk’s career in ICT has led to leadership roles in business and government. As the founder of HerTechPath, she inspires girls to consider careers in technology.

Emma Rebellato is a journalist with experience in both radio and television. She currently works in the newsroom at the ABC, presenting the evening news bulletin.

Tegan Brink joined the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to pursue a career in diplomacy and has undertaken foreign policy, trade and legal roles.

Dr Suzanne Mashtoub leads a research team investigating intestinal disease at the Gastroenterology Department at the Adelaide Women’s and Children’s Hospital.

Dr Emily Kilner graduated as a physiotherapist but after two years decided on a change of career. Following her heart, she returned to study to become a Doctor of Medicine.

Jessica Westthorp graduated with a Bachelor of Civil Engineering and has worked on a number of large of projects across South Australia. She is currently working at Adelaide Airport.

Christina Ambrosi is a PhD researcher at the University of South Australia. She has continued her passion for social justice through her involvement with Young Mercy Links.

Madeleine Kelly has put her Mercy values into action while working at the School of St Jude in Tanzania. She has returned to work at SAC, supporting and inspiring current students.

Alexandra Procter graduated with a Bachelor of Health Sciences and has worked as a research assistant and tutor. She is currently completing her PhD focusing on integenerational welfare.

Katherine Sortini is a professional actor having performed with the State Theatre Company of South Australia, the South Australian Playwrights Theatre and the Adelaide Fringe.

Shabana’s creative talents have led her to a career in acting with a preference for the screen rather than the stage. She has appeared on television as well as winning a lead role in a feature film.

Vanessa Pearce’s love of science and teamwork led to dentistry as her career choice. Showing the compassion she learned at SAC, Vanessa worked as a volunteer in a large public hospital in Zambia.