A beautifully colored korowai was gifted to Sister Marie Skidmore rsj for her untiring commitment, faith and wisdom to Catholic Education at the Cullinane College senior prize giving, celebrated on Friday 4 November 2024.
A korowai is gifted to a person and symbolizes the embodiment of the responsibilities attached to leadership.
Board Member and kuia from Kaiwhaiki Francis Huwyler (nee Simon), made the presentation on behave of the Board of Trustees and school community, with an automatic round of applause filling the vast gymnasium.
“I was overwhelmed.” said Sister Marie.
Since the Sisters of St Joseph arrived in colonial Whanganui in 1880, 250 Sisters have taught in the Catholic schools down through the years, established mainly in the Palmerston North Diocese.
“I feel I was standing upon many shoulders when I received this gift. It was for us all.” said Sister Marie. “It will be a truly beautiful and significant treasure shared.”
Resigning from the Cullinane Board in early 2024 as a Proprietor’s Representative, Sister Marie bought to a close nearly 59 years of various responsibilities in education, including being principal of Sacred Heart College from 1978 to 1985.
This uncommon gift was rightfully appropriate, expressing with gratitude Sister Marie’s mana and the prestige the College places on her.