Rev'd Kaye Pitman

Anglican Priest

Kaye Pitman (class of 1953) is a retired Anglican priest and has received the Order of Australia Medal for her lifetime of service to education and the church.  Reverend Pitman was one of the first Anglican female priests in Australia and has a long and distinguished career in both education and the church.

Kaye has worked around Australia and abroad helping others. Among other feats she has been a young missionary in Papua New Guinea, a teacher (including teaching at Mapleton in the 1950s), a student and tutor with American Indian students in Canada, a teacher educator in Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory, a volunteer ambulance officer, a deacon and later a priest in the Anglican Church, a lecturer in theological studies at St Francis' College Brisbane, a member of diocesan council and St Hilda's School Council, chaplain for GFS, an Anglican Ministry, and chaplain for clergy spouses.

"I have always been proud that I attended State High and still have friendships with those with whom I studied. Our reunions have been times of great fellowship. I can remember the names of all of my teachers and enjoy sharing stories of them when we meet for the reunions. I often recall Miss Cribb's comment, 'Kaye, you are far too casual!. This must have been when we met often in Room 22 after 3 o'clock! I've had 70 years to live up to her prediction. I have had a very blessed life and at 85, am still enjoying it. My vocation has always been teaching and as a retired priest, I am able to continue using my teaching skills as I assist in parish ministry".

Kaye's advice for students is to make the most of every opportunity you have been given, so that you can offer the new world a person of strength and integrity. Academic achievement and sporting prowess is good, but it is just as important to search the depths of your being to know who you are, and who you can become. The important parts in this effort are the friendships that offer mutual respect and support. Enjoy them and nurture them. The world needs to know how to love one another.