Kepnock State High School has long been recognised for its commitment to academic excellence and holistic student development. As Education Week continues, the spotlight now turns to Kaitlin Priestley, an esteemed graduate whose journey exemplifies the school's dedication to nurturing future leaders equipped with the skills and values necessary for success in the global arena.
Reflecting on her formative years at Kepnock, Kaitlin attributes her solid foundation for success to the school's diverse and inclusive environment, emphasising the essential role of social and cultural awareness in building interpersonal skills crucial for a competitive global job market. The school's esteemed Challenge Program, in particular, provided Kaitlin and her peers with an ideal learning environment, fostering academic excellence while nurturing confidence and problem-solving abilities crucial for real-world challenges.
Mrs. Carson's English class and Ms. Orr's Maths B class played instrumental roles in shaping Kaitlin's passions, sparking her interest in the field of finance and economics. Building upon her educational journey at Kepnock, Kaitlin pursued a Bachelor of Advanced Finance and Economics from the University of Queensland, propelling her into a leading role in Corporate Sustainability for an Investment Management firm. The rigorous academic environment at Kepnock, coupled with the intellectual stimulation from her peers, equipped Kaitlin with the necessary skills for her professional success.
The values instilled by Kepnock, including responsibility, integrity, and excellence, continue to serve as Kaitlin's moral compass in her career in investment management. Aligned with her current firm's commitment to "enable better lives through investment excellence," Kaitlin's adherence to these values ensures ethical decision-making and the delivery of high-quality work, reflecting the ethical standards embedded in Kepnock's ethos.
Despite her professional endeavors, Kaitlin remains deeply connected to Kepnock State High School. Following the school's social media profiles and occasionally contributing to its initiatives, Kaitlin's continued engagement reflects the enduring bonds fostered by the school's supportive community. With her partners being current and former teachers at Kepnock, Kaitlin's connection to the school remains steadfast, highlighting the strong network and community ties that characterise the Kepnock experience.
Kaitlin's leadership experiences at Kepnock have seamlessly translated into her professional life, equipping her with decision-making, teamwork, and communication skills essential for managing teams and making crucial business decisions. Her journey exemplifies the transformative impact of a values-based education, positioning her as an inspiring figure for current and future Kepnock students aiming to make their mark on the world stage.