Ross Fox reflects on leadership and legacy

Ross Fox, the Director of Catholic Education for the Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn, departs after eight impactful years. Under his leadership, Catholic schools have been recognised for their strong communities, commitment to faith, and excellence in education at the national level. But before he packs up his office, the Catholic Voice couldn’t resist asking him a few questions.

1. What are your most memorable achievements during your tenure as Director of Catholic Education?

Over eight years of working with so many great colleagues, Catholic schools in the Archdiocese are now widely recognised not only as welcoming Catholic communities proposing and sharing the splendour of the Catholic faith but also as national and international leaders in effective learning for all students.

Bringing Cardinal-elect Timothy Radcliffe OP to lead the principal retreat this year alongside securing the creator of Bluey Joe Brumm for a parent-focused event were definitely highlights this year. Both made profound observations for reflection from a Catholic understanding of the world and the human person.

2. How has the Catholic education landscape changed during your time in leadership?

During my 11 years in leadership in Catholic education there has been immense change in many areas affecting Catholic schools. I will finish as Director of Catholic Education in Canberra and Goulburn as the current longest serving director amongst the eleven dioceses of ACT and NSW.

Pope Francis has stated that maybe we are amidst a change of eras rather than an era of change. Catholic education, through our schools, is very much at the forefront of engaging with this change. Whether it be the place of faith and belief in society or the ubiquity of technology in workplaces, schools and homes, so many accepted beliefs, practices and relationships are being challenged and changing. Our place is to confidently engage with these changes and work to ensure they are for the better for every child and every person.

3. What advice do you have for your successor to ensure continued success in Catholic education?

Good advice and ideas are available from many sources – students, parents, priests, support staff, teachers, principals, office staff and colleagues in other Catholic education systems. Listen and discern carefully and Catholic education in the Archdiocese will be very well placed.

4. How has your faith influenced your leadership style and decision-making processes?

My faith influences everything I do. The example of Jesus, from scripture and in discernment is an ever present inspiration as I have approached decisions in my role as Director of Catholic education. Faith is a starting point, particularly our foundational belief in the innate dignity of the every human person. This understanding must be the starting point of decisions in any Catholic organisation.

5.  What three books do you recommend everyone reads?

The Knowledge Gap – Natalie Wexler – An excellent exploration of the priority that should be given to knowledge in school education and how too often in recent times this might have been neglected.

The Joy of the Gospel – Pope Francis – Pope Francis’ inspirational encyclical which stands the test of time.

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – CS Lewis – A wonderful piece of literature from an inspired Christian author.

6. Is there a particular virtue you find most important in education? Why?

Hope. It never disappoints. Catholic educational leaders ultimately strive to share and sustain hope for all of the students and teachers we work alongside and lead. Our hope is founded on the person of Jesus Christ and our understanding that every person is made in the image and likeness of God and therefore possesses innate human dignity. From this understanding we act from a well-founded hope and optimism that through our dedication and commitment we can transform the lives of our students with learning and growth. Through our educational endeavours students can truly fulfil their God-given potential.

7.   What sport do you love to play or watch?

I enjoy playing basketball and watching Australian Rules Football.

8.  Best Christmas present you’ve received.

This is a tough one. My family has given me so many wonderful gifts. A set of the McGuffy readers. These readers were widely used in the nineteenth century as the education system in the United States began to form. They are a fascinating insight into the expectations that were held for students of the time in terms of knowledge and reading ability.

9.  Name one surprising thing people might not know about you?

I’m fascinated by dinosaurs and I’m the eighth child in a family of ten children.