Efkharisto Vicki!

There was Greek food lovingly prepared by Wally and our kitchen staff, Greek music - not that you could hear it above the din. We even decorated the JCR in the colors of the Greek flag - which most of our guests mistook for the colors of Barbara’s beloved football team... Geelong. But aside from that, what a terrific night!

Past Student Club Presidents Peter Howell and Kate Owen spoke on behalf of the students. How well they remembered working with Vicki on weekends and Christmas breaks, and how friendly and welcoming she was to country kids living in Melbourne for the first time. Make no mistake, they said, Vicki could be a tough lady, but she always forgave the students’ minor misdemeanours. Although, some would say, life was a little easier to be born a boy!

Brian James was Principal of St Hilda’s from 1981-1997. He spoke of some of the most influential women in the College history and he included Vicki amongst their number. Brian also spoke of the influence of Vicki’s Greek Orthodox faith on her outlook in life. He noted that the Greek Orthodox Church placed greater emphasis on the celebration of life. An outlook that was well suited to the character of our students.

Barbara Green spoke on behalf of the many parents who, “observing from the sidelines ... were aware that Vicki had the welfare of the students foremost in her mind”.

The formalities of the evening were completed with a Toast, accompanied by the unveiling of Vicki’s official portrait which now hangs prominently and fittingly in the College Dining Hall. We can only wish these portraits could talk.

Deborah Pugh