There are many opportunities for current parents, former students and parents, and friends of the school to stay connected and continue to be part of life at Columba College. These dedicated and diverse groups help maintain networks beyond the school gates and enrich and enhance the school community.
Columba Community
Board of Governors
Dr Doug Hill (President)
Ms Rachel McLauchlan (Deputy President and Treasurer)
Ms Jenness Riethmaier (Principal)
Mr Callum Hayde
Mrs Liana Johnston
Mr Jason La Hood
Mrs Julia Scott
Mr Michael van Aart
Mrs Geraldine Duncan
Mr Dougal McGowan
Mr Hamish Mackenzie
Ms Amy Columb
Mrs Louise Tilyard
School Board
Mrs Julia Scott (Chair)
Ms Jenness Riethmaier (Principal)
Mr Callum Hayde
Mr Dougal McGowan
Ms Annie Van der Wal
Mrs Rebecca Crawford
Mrs Deborah Body
Mrs Amanda Davies
Mr Graeme Riley
Mr Aaron Everett
Miss Tessa Smith
Parents Association
The aim of the Columba College Parents’ Association is to work as a team and to provide a link between students, their families, the School and its Governing bodies.
The Association has a committee with office bearers, and welcomes new committee members.
The Parents’ Association organises a few key fund-raising events every year such as the School Fair with the funds raised used to provide a wide range of equipment and resources that help to ensure Columba College offers its students the best possible experience.
The current President of the Parents’ Association is Mrs Louise Tilyard.
To contact the Parents’ Association, please email parentassociation@columbacollege.school.nz.
Sports Council
The Sports Council was established in 2011 to provide further support for the College’s sports programme through the involvement of enthusiastic and knowledgeable parents, coaches and staff. The Sports Council vision is to create a pathway to excellence for all.
The current Sports Council executive is
Brent Davies – Chair
Jo Morrison – Secretary
Dougal McGowan – Treasurer
The Council welcomes new members to continue this support for Sport at Columba.
Columba College Alumni
We want the friendships and memories made at Columba College to last you a lifetime. To help cement these we actively encourage former students and and parents of Columba College to be part of our Alumni.
Being part of our Alumni will ensure you keep up to date with the latest news from the College, have the opportunity to attend events and keep in touch with your peers.
We also love to hear form our former students and do encourage you to update your details or to simply let us know what’s happening. Email us at development@columbacollege.school.nz .
Distinguished Alumni
An annual service to celebrate Distinguished Alumni of the College was introduced in 2011. Since then high deserving graduates of Columba College have been given this honour.
Columba College Foundation
Today’s Columba College is the legacy of those who came before us. Their vision and generosity are realised by every student, every day.
To offer excellent education for our students, we are reliant on the support of our past and present families, alumni and the generous contributions of those who share our values.
The Columba College Foundation looks beyond the daily running of the school, supporting long-term capital projects and activities that cannot be met from school fees. The Foundation supports two priority areas.
- Special Character
We have a proud history of providing education of the highest quality – academic, sporting, arts and cultural, and spiritual. The Foundation will support initiatives which encourage students to reach their full potential in all areas of College life. - Facilities
Education begins when students step on to our grounds for the first time. Our beautiful campus is a special feature of the College with a blend of historic buildings and first-class modern facilities. The Foundation will preserve, enhance, and develop the unique campus we have inherited, blending tradition with innovation to continue to provide top quality education and high quality buildings.
News and Events
We know our supporters and alumni like to keep in touch with what’s happening at Columba College. You can follow us on Facebook for the latest news and events or connect with us on LinkedIn.
The Foundation will keep in touch with regular updates to alumni. Please do let us know if your contact details change.
Ways to Support
Together, we can ensure our current and future students receive the best education, preparing them for a future of learning and attaining standards of excellence.
- Monthly or annual giving
Just as every student at Columba counts, so too does every gift. We welcome donations at any time of the year whether one-off or by monthly payments. - Campaign giving
We will seek targeted donations from our alumni and wider College community for specific projects. Campaigns will offer different levels of giving and recognition.
Email development@columbacollege.school.nz for more information.
Columba Old Girls’ Association
The Old Girls’ Association was established in 1924 with Miss Frances Ross, first Principal of the College, elected as first President.
The Dunedin-based Committee meets regularly and from time to time arranges social functions for Old Girls and members of the school community. Through its newsletters to Old Girls, the Association is a valuable way for members to keep in touch and to be informed about developments and school news.
There are a number of active branches of the C.O.G.A. throughout New Zealand.
The Current Leadership Team is:
President: Sarah Cottle
Vice President: Rachel Bird
Secretary: Gabby Bird
Contact details for the C.O.G.A. are:
Postal: P.O. Box 12012, Maori Hill, Dunedin
Email: columbaoldgirlsassociation@gmail.com
Click here to fill in the C.O.G.A form online or Click to download the C.O.G.A. life membership form to post back.