Book a Tour
Enrol Online
Prospectus
At The Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar School Annual General Meeting held on Tuesday 27 May, Mrs Kerrie Haynes was appointed Chair of the School Board.
Kerrie replaces Karen Frost who has been Chair of the School Board since 2016. We congratulate both Karen and Kerrie on their significant and ongoing contribution to shaping the future direction of the School. We sat down with Karen (Outgoing Chair) and Kerrie (Incoming Chair) recently and asked them a few questions.
Karen, when did your journey with Ivanhoe Girls’ begin?
I am from the Class of 1981 and my journey at Ivanhoe Girls’ began in 1976 when I commenced Year 7. After Year 12, I began at LaTrobe University studying Economics and Accounting (one of relatively few females studying this course at the time) and didn’t really maintain much contact with the School. I “rejoined” the Ivanhoe Girls’ family in 2004 when my daughter started Year 7, and I joined the Ivanhoe Girls' Old Grammarians Association (IGOGA) Committee at the invitation of long-term Secretary Liz Taylor.
How long have you been a member of the Board?
I’ve been a member of the Board for 15 years, firstly as a nominee of the IGOGA Committee and then as an elected Board member. Prior to being nominated as Chair, I was Treasurer and Chair of the Finance and Risk Committee. It was my great honour to be the first female nominated for the role.
What has been the highlight of your time as Chair?
My highlight isn’t a specific event, it has been the opportunity to be in a key role that supports the education of wonderful young people and to see them flourish and achieve in a wide range of areas, both in their school years and beyond. For this reason, I immensely enjoy attending a wide range of events, such as Celebration Night, School Productions, Music Performances and Open Days, and reading about all the wonderful achievements of our students both while they are at school and in their lives as Ivanhoe Girls’ Alumni.
What words of advice would you give to the new Chair?
I have worked with Kerrie for a long time, and feel that we are very similar in our views and approach. For this reason, my advice to Kerrie is for her to make the role her own, and to enjoy the opportunities of this key role within the Ivanhoe Girls’ family. I very much look forward to this next exciting phase of the School’s bright future under her leadership.
Kerrie, when did your journey with Ivanhoe Girls’ begin?
My journey with Ivanhoe Girls’ began as a student. I have such fond memories of my time here, including the honour and privilege of being School Captain in 1983. Ivanhoe Girls’ is where I found my voice, built lifelong friendships, and experienced first-hand the warmth, excellence and a very strong sense of community which continues to define our school today. Years later, my husband and I chose Ivanhoe Girls’ for our daughter Mikaela’s (Class of 2017) education – a very natural but deeply meaningful decision.
How long have you been a member of the Board and in what capacity?
I have been honoured to serve on the School Board for 27 years as the IGOGA nominee. During this time, I have taken on several roles on the Board, including Treasurer and Vice Chair. Each position has given me a broader perspective on how the School operates and deepened my appreciation for the dedication and passion that goes into every decision made on behalf of our students.
What made you want to take on the role of Chair of the Board?
Ivanhoe Girls’ has played a significant role in my life and has given much to myself and my family over many years. Taking on the role of Chair is both a responsibility and a privilege. I care deeply about the School, and I am passionate about what it stands for, so it feels only right to give back in a meaningful way. I am grateful to be able to help support and guide the School through the next chapter of its story, ensuring future generations benefit from the same rich educational experience that my daughter and I were fortunate to receive.
What projects, events, or initiatives are you most excited about looking forward?
I am excited about initiatives focusing on innovation in learning and wellbeing, as well as continuing to enhance our facilities to support staff and students. Strengthening community connections, expanding opportunities for students, and future-proofing programs to meet the demands of an evolving world are all top priorities.
I am particularly excited about the establishment of our new Ivanhoe Girls’ - empowerED program, which is rapidly moving ahead. It is a forward-thinking initiative reflecting who we are as a school and where we are heading in the future. It will give our students more opportunities to explore their passions, grow as individuals, and prepare for a future that is constantly changing. There is a real sense of energy and purpose around this program, and I am thrilled to be part of bringing it to life.