A heartfelt thank you to Heather Kent

As State President of the St Vincent de Paul Society, I want to express my deepest gratitude to our outgoing CEO Heather Kent, for her extraordinary service and leadership over the past three and a half years. When Heather stepped into the role in 2022, she brought more than a wealth of experience in Tasmania’s not-for-profit, health, disability and community sectors. It is fair to say that she hit the ground running. Throughout her time, Heather was instrumental in driving forward major projects in response to Tasmania’s growing housing and cost of living crises. Under her direction, we deepened our efforts to deliver transitional and affordable housing, alongside our emergency relief, special works, community fundraising and outreach. Rosalie Court, the Mill Lane Precinct, Bethlehem House, Amelie House (Argyle and Warwick) have all been energized by Heather’s enthusiasm, passion and important stakeholder relationships through government, philanthropy and the community sector. These developments will stand as lasting testament to her work at The Society. On a personal level I will fondly remember the countless early-morning meetings we shared, often in the car, sometimes accompanied by a barking dog, the quack of ducks, or the call of a peacock in the background. It’s in these moments that I saw Heather’s dedication to our vision, always ready to act, always ready to listen. Heather never just managed, she actualised the change in culture and strategic direction our Society needed, including the enormous amount of work going into making the Society a company limited by guarantee. She embraced our mission and values as her own, brought staff along with her, led with empathy and integrity, and always kept our Catholic identity and Vincentian values front and centre. Because of Heather’s tireless work, the Society is now in an even stronger place with a clear strategic path, ready for renewed energy for the future. While it is with sadness that we farewell her in this role, it is also with immense gratitude. I am delighted that she will continue to be a part of our Vincentian family, joining us a little down the track as a member of a new Amelie Conference, continuing to serve and support those in need. Heather is joining Palliative Care Tasmania as CEO and they are very fortunate to be gaining her energy and wisdom. On behalf of all Members, volunteers, staff, and those whose lives you’ve touched, thank you, Heather. May God bless you in all that lies ahead. Corey McGrath State President St Vincent de Paul Society.