A career for life is the thought that comes to mind when you meet Rachel McGennisken and hear about her path from teacher to the newly appointed Principal of Emmanuel College, Warrnambool.

Raised and educated in the Wimmera at Catholic schools in Edenhope and Horsham, Ms McGennisken has an intrinsic understanding of both the challenges and benefits of education in regional areas.

The importance she places on the sense of community surrounding Catholic schools is evident in the way she speaks about her new role with Emmanuel College, with a desire to foster the already strong culture of Faith, Hope and Love built by the generations before her, aligning with her own faith.

Ms McGennisken’s journey as an educator began in the North East of Victoria in Wangaratta and Wodonga, and continued in Horsham before joining the governing body for schools in the Ballarat Diocese, DOBCEL, where she worked closely with schools, including Emmanuel College, on many projects.

Longing for a hands-on role back with students and the community of a school, Ms McGennisken relocated to Trinity College Colac as the Deputy Principal before joining Emmanuel College in April of 2025.

Her long-term affinity with education coupled with her upbringing and love of living on the land, has led to her grounded and balanced approach to her work life. As an active participant within the catholic community and at church events, her values of mutual respect, strong teamwork and belief in belonging to something bigger, combined with further leadership training and qualifications, see her well positioned to lead Emmanuel College into the future.

While Ms McGennisken is finding her way around the Campus and meeting staff and students, she says she’s enjoying the experience and looks forward to delivering what she believes is one of the biggest opportunities any child can receive - access to a quality, well rounded, Catholic education.