New CECWA Chair brings ‘vibrant faith’ and vast experience to role
30 June 2022
Newly appointed Catholic Education Commission of Western Australia (CECWA) Chair, Eva Skira AM says her appointment is a privilege and honour, especially at such a “pivotal time for our Catholic community and in education as we continue towards excellence”.
Ms Skira who is a Member of the Order of Australia, takes over the leadership from the Most Rev Gerard Holohan DD, Bishop of Bunbury, who retired on 3 June after serving the Commission since 2013.
“Catholic schools make a significant contribution to many aspects of the Western Australian community, and I look forward to working in partnership with the Commissioners, the Executive Team and other leaders to build CEWA’s voice, profile and system, for the benefit of all students within our care,” Ms Skira said.
“Bishop Holohan led the Catholic Education Commission of Western Australia for many years, and I thank him for his tireless efforts towards significant governance improvement and change.
“Bishop Holohan’s leadership has progressed Catholic Education Western Australia’s profile and voice within the Australian Catholic community”.
Ms Skira joins CECWA after a distinguished career in governance and finance. She has held non-executive board positions at Western Power and Macmahon Holdings, and served as Deputy Chair of the Board and Chair of Trustees at St John of God Healthcare Group, Chair of the Water Corporation and Deputy Chancellor at Murdoch University.
“Catholic schools make a significant contribution in many aspects of the Western Australian community, and I look forward to working in partnership with the Commissioners, the Executive Team and other leaders to build CEWA’s voice, profile and system, for the benefit of all students within our care.”
Catholic Education Commission of Western Australia Chair Eva Skira AM
She is also a member of the fifth Plenary Council of Australia.
“Being a member of the fifth Plenary Council of Australia is a privilege and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to rich discussions and engage with the diverse experiences and expertise of other leaders across Australia, regarding the future of our Catholic Church,” Ms Skira said.
Perth Archbishop the Most Rev Timothy Costelloe SDB said the Bishops of Western Australia’s process of selection for the role considered the skills, attributes, and education sector knowledge.
His Grace said the candidate would have to demonstrate expertise leading a large, complex governance environment and, more importantly, have a personal commitment to the mission of Catholic education and experience in improvement in a Catholic organisation.
“Eva brings to CECWA her experience of leadership, a deep understanding of governance in the not for profit and business sector, and a personal commitment to serving for-purpose organisations aligned to her vibrant Catholic faith,” he said.
National Catholic Education Commission (NCEC) Director Jacinta Collins congratulated Ms Skira and looked forward to collaborating with her.
“I look forward to working with Eva to deliver the ongoing priorities for Catholic education in Australia and furthering the growth and contribution Catholic schools make to Western Australia and the nation,” she said.
