Staff

Regardless of job title, each and every member of the St Hilda's staff is dedicated to the wellbeing, growth and development of our students.  Every staff member at St Hilda's is there to help, to encourage, and to ensure that your life at St Hilda's is happy and healthy.

Dr Brenda Holt commenced as the Principal of St Hilda’s College in January 2018, her 20th year in Residential Colleges. Brenda has a decorated and distinguished career in education and residential colleges.  Originally from a small town in Central Texas, Brenda has been a happy migrant to Australia since 1989.  Brenda has been an English teacher, a counsellor, an academic advisor, a senior administrator, and a Head of College.  Her favourite part of her work is being a part of students' lives and experiencing their transformation while they are at College.  An educator for 30 years, Brenda is a believer in young people, in the transforming power of a healthy community and in the future she knows will be ably led by her students and those like them.

James Hardiman joined St Hilda’s as the Dean of Students in January of 2020. James joins St Hilda’s with over a decade of experience in residential colleges. James holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Industrial Chemistry) from UNSW where he also held roles as a Resident Tutor, Deputy Dean and Dean across a number of the colleges on campus. James enjoyed an 8 year career as an engineer before realising his real passion was in residential colleges and supporting young adults. James is currently studying an MBA, specialising in Social Impact and has a strong passion for improving the lives and experiences of the students at St Hilda’s. His team of Resident Tutors and Resident Advisors, along with the Academic and Wellbeing Coordinator are responsible for the pastoral care, professional development and academic support of all residents at St Hilda’s. 

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).

Lyn Edwards AssocDipBus, MMktgCmncs, MFIA, CASE, commenced at St Hilda's College in 2017. She brings specialist skills in philanthropy, marketing and communications with over 20 years management experience in the education and not-for-profit sectors. Raised in the outback of South Australia,  her country values and a strong sense of community are closely aligned to the values of St Hilda's College.  Lyn is passionate about Communitas, providing opportunities for young people and making a difference to those who are less fortunate and in need.