Carmel Hanley – nominated by Belinda Chisholm
Carmel Hanley, principal Lumen Christi Delacombe, embodies all that it means to be part of Catholic Education, seeing schools as more than a place for education, but a vital part of the thriving Delacombe community. Carmel’s leadership at Lumen, and her service as interim Principal at Our Lady Help of Christians, demonstrates a profound commitment to collaboration, community-building, and fostering school environments rooted in the values of the Trinity—love, unity, and service.
Carmel’s leadership is marked by her selflessness and dedication to Catholic Education. When asked to step in as interim principal at Our Lady’s, Carmel did so without hesitation. Her leadership was calm, inspiring, and deeply rooted in her belief in the importance of supporting the broader Catholic Education family. She ensured a smooth transition, facilitated the appointment of a new principal and ensured enrolments and staff appointments were in place for the 2025 school year, all while maintaining her strong connection with Lumen.
At Lumen Christi, Carmel has created a place that serves as the beating heart of the Delacombe community. She encourages and models strong relationships, fosters an environment where communication is open, and everyone feels welcome. Carmel’s initiatives, including the ‘Lumen Legend’ awards, celebrate and recognise student achievement and strengthen the bond between school and community. Her focus on community engagement demonstrates a belief that schools are more than places of learning—they are vital hubs for connection and meaningful relationships.
Carmel’s leadership extends beyond education to the holistic development of the community. She has been instrumental in implementing wellbeing initiatives, such as the continued partnership with Blossom Tree Psychology, which supports trauma-informed practice and the mental health of both students and staff. Carmel’s commitment to wellbeing ensures that the school community is nurtured and all members flourish.
Carmel demonstrates a strong commitment to empowering others. She has built leadership structures at Lumen that enable all staff, parents, and students to shine. By delegating key responsibilities and trusting the leadership team to lead projects, Carmel has cultivated a culture of collective autonomy and agency. Her leadership not only empowers all, it has a measurable impact on increased enrolments and community engagement. The success of taking more than 100 prospective parents on Lumen’s Learning Walks in 2024 and the increase in enrolments at Lumen Christi thereafter, are direct outcomes of her efforts and vision to ensure Lumen Christi is a highly effective, accessible and welcoming place for families with a viable future when it comes to educating the Delacombe community.
Carmel’s aspirational influence extends beyond Lumen Christi. She has mentored emerging leaders across the diocese and her example of selflessness and collaboration inspires colleagues at all levels. Carmel’s leadership is a testament to her compassion, dedication, and vision. She embodies what it means to be a leader in Catholic Education, building a community that works collaboratively for the greater good, ensuring Lumen Christi and the broader Catholic Education system continue to thrive. Carmel is the epitome of leading by example, guiding others with a full and generous heart.
