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.
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’ started as Dean of Students at St Hilda’s in December 2022. Originally from Lutruwita (Tasmania) Fe is an experienced educator with a passion for building inclusive, dynamic, intentional communities where young adults are challenged to grow into the best versions of themselves. Fe has over 10 years of experience in residential learning communities both in Secondary and Tertiary. She has a distinguished background as a teacher and has substantial experience in pastoral care and academic programming alongside youth leadership development and training.
Fe has a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Tasmania (Environmental Science, Psychology and Sociology) and a Graduate Diploma of Education from the University of Melbourne. Fe has specialised in youth leadership, student wellbeing and the development of youth specific programs that empower young people to be agents of change in their communities.
Fe has significant college experience, serving at Janet Clarke Hall for seven years, the last four years, as Vice Principal. Prior to her time at Janet Clarke Hall, Fe had over 15 years of experience in both teaching and leadership roles at Methodist Ladies’ College, Melbourne.
For the past 4 years, Fe has worked with young people and their families on the Bellarine Peninsular. She managed the establishment of headspace in Ocean Grove, worked in the area of gender equity and the prevention of violence against women, as well as successfully designing and implementing a number of youth leadership programs in the region that promote healthier and more resilient communities.
Fe and her family love living ‘in community’ and are very excited to join the Hilda’s community and to foster a community culture that celebrates diversity and inclusion and the empowerment of young people.
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 Mr David Gilbertson, KC. 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