Our
people
Changemakers
belong here
The St Hilda’s staff truly believe in the communitas spirit of the College; supporting students to achieve their full potential is at the heart of the work they do.
Principal
James Hardiman
James “Jimmy” Hardiman started as Principal of St Hilda’s in December 2022 after almost 3 years as our Dean of Students. He has nearly 15 years of experience in residential colleges, having also held roles as Dean, Deputy Dean and Residential Tutor at the Kensington Colleges in UNSW.
James holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Industrial Chemistry) and Master of Business Administration specialising in Social Impact and Non-profits, both from UNSW.
James enjoyed an 8 year career as an engineer before realising his real calling was in residential colleges and supporting young adults. He has a strong passion for leadership and professional development and helping students make an impact on the world around them.
James is also committed to supporting the entire ecosystem of colleges in Australia and is the current Chair of the Heads of Melbourne Colleges and the Vice President of University Colleges Australia.
Having grown up on the sunny Central Coast of NSW, James’ own college experience as an undergraduate was only made possible through access to a scholarship and, as such, he is a staunch advocate for building diverse communities with a focus on equity and access for underrepresented students.
James lives on site with his wife, Julia, and two boys, Charlie and Jasper. In a true family affair, Julia and the boys have had a long connection with colleges, with both Charlie and Jasper having been born while James held leadership positions in colleges. The whole family love being a part of a community of engaged, caring and supportive young adults.
Dean of Students
Fiona Cadorel
Fiona ‘Fe’ Cadorel joined the St Hilda’s community as Vice Principal and Dean of Students in 2022. Originally from Lutruwita/Tasmania, Fe is an experienced educator with a deep commitment to fostering inclusive, dynamic and intentional communities. She is passionate about creating environments where young adults are challenged, supported and encouraged to broaden their perspectives and grow into their best selves.
Fe brings more than 13 years of experience in residential learning communities across both secondary and tertiary settings. She has a distinguished background as a teacher and extensive expertise in student wellbeing, academic programming, primary prevention of gendered violence, and youth leadership development and training.
Fe holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Tasmania – majoring in Environmental Science, Psychology and Sociology – and a Graduate Diploma of Education from the University of Melbourne. She has specialised throughout her career in youth leadership, student wellbeing, and the design of youth-focused programs that empower young people to become agents of positive change in their communities.
Fe has significant experience in collegiate environments, including seven years at Janet Clarke Hall, where she served as Vice Principal for four years. Before her time in tertiary colleges, she spent more than 15 years in teaching and leadership positions at Methodist Ladies’ College in Melbourne.
Before joining St Hilda’s, Fe worked with young people and families on the Bellarine Peninsula. She led the establishment of headspace Ocean Grove, worked in gender equity and the prevention of gendered violence, as well as successfully designing and delivering youth leadership programs that strengthened community connection, wellbeing and resilience across the region.
Fe and her family are proud to be part of the St Hilda’s community – a place where diversity, inclusion and the empowerment of young people are truly celebrated.
Chief Financial Officer
Rob Lancaster
Rob Lancaster has been the CFO at St Hilda’s College since 2011. Rob and his team are responsible for the College’s finances and facilities, including the catering operation. Rob holds a Bachelor of Business (Accounting) and is a Chartered Accountant. He has held management positions at Spotless and PricewaterhouseCoopers. He is an avid supporter of the Cats in the AFL and Collegians Football Club in the Amateurs (where he played).
Our Board
The St Hilda’s College Board is chaired by Dr Lynne Williams AM. The Board are instrumental in setting the strategic direction for the College, and provide valuable oversight to its success.
Meet our Board Members
Our Staff
Our staff group is made up of residential and non-residential staff who are all committed to making sure that you are supported in your university journey.
Meet some of our staff
Our Fellows
St Hilda’s Fellows are friends of the college and specialists in their field. They continue to develop and share their knowledge to inspire future generations.
Meet our fellows