Fairholme College principal Dr Linda Evans to step down

After devoting more than two decades to educating young women at Fairholme College, Dr Linda Evans has announced she will step down from her role to pursue research, writing and more time with her family.

Fairholme College principal Dr Linda Evans has announced she will step down at the end of term one next year.

Dr Evans has led the Toowoomba private school since 2009.

In a statement from the school, Dr Evans said was leaving the school to spend more time with her family and pursue further writing and research.

“While this has been an exceptionally difficult decision to make, I believe it to be the right one,” she said.

“Fairholme has been led by just three principals over the past forty-five years – a unique period of leadership stability.

“But seasons are finite and while the wrench of leaving is significant, to do so is important for the college’s growth and strength into the future.”

Dr Linda Evans photographed with Fairholme students (from left) Amelia Beattie, Richa Vimal, Sandili Phaltane, Lucy Williams, (front from left) Gracie Walker and Alicia Yap in 2018.

Dr Evans started at the school more than 22 years ago, and served as deputy principal for six years before she was appointed principal.

She said she would miss the daily rhythm of school life.

“In letting go, I am grateful to have almost twelve months to enjoy the best of Fairholme,” Dr Evans said.

“It is in our leaving that we have the greatest clarity.

I am keenly aware of the privilege of the moments that lie ahead and that there will be just one more Presenting Fairholme, one more formal, one more valedictory dinner and the list wends onwards.

“More significant for me, nonetheless, will be time in the classroom, assemblies, daily interactions, sporting sidelines and the precious seconds that occur, daily.

“Schools are rich communities of activity – Fairholme more so than most, and I intend to savour each event ahead and all of the moments wedged in between.