Te Kura o Tititea Mount Aspiring College’s (MAC) new school board chair comes armed with extensive governance experience, including a three-year term on the local council and a current role leading a youth-focused community group Path Wanaka.

Niamh Shaw said she is committed to ensuring “excellent governance of the college with a focus on wellbeing and communication,” in her new role.

She was first elected to the school board in 2022 and steps into the chair role following the  

completion of Dr Ian Hall’s tenure. 

Niamh said supporting programmes and policies for students and staff that build resilience around risks facing young people was a focus for her. 

“I believe the most healthy and positive outcomes for our young people are achieved when we have open engagement among students, teachers, staff, parents, caregivers, whānau, and the wider community,” she said.

“As a board, we recognise parents and caregivers and the broader community as our partners in supporting our young people to strive for success and achieve their personal goals.”

“Our aim is to provide a place for every student to grow and be proud of who they are.” 

Niamh said she was looking forward to continuing the fine work done by Ian, who has served as board chair for four years. 

“Ian has been an exemplary board chair and provided outstanding governance and guidance of the board members and the senior leadership of the college,” she said.

Outgoing chair Dr Ian Hall says he is leaving with a strong board in place.

Ian said he was leaving the board in good shape.

“A strong board is now in place and I feel confident that the college will continue to offer an excellent education for all students,” he said.

“It’s been a special pleasure to spend time with such wonderful students and to see their success in so many fields.” 

Other board members are Mark Sinclair (parent representative and deputy chair) Ben Taylor (chair of the finance committee and a parent representative), Ruth Heath (parent representative), Shona Brown (parent representative), Nicola Jacobsen (Principal), Emma Smith (staff representative), and Zoe Laws (student representative). 

Naimh’s tenure as chair is for one year, after which a further election will take place. 

PHOTOS: MAC