Beth Godwin, Principal, Cabramatta High School

Beth Godwin has been nominated for the 2012 Women of the West Award for creating a culture of community advocacy and volunteering at Cabramatta High School that is of benefit to students as well as the wider community.

Since taking on the role of Principal of Cabramatta High School in 2004, Beth has acted as a powerful role model on the benefits of volunteering and community advocacy – she has personally participated in many community projects, while at the same time encouraging her students to make a difference at a local, national and international level.

Some of the causes that Beth has championed include the Red Cross charitable fundraising and blood donations, the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal, and the inauguration of the Leo's club in association with the Lion's Club.

With her support and encouragement, student leaders from Cabramatta High School have raised support and funds for the Wells for Cambodia Project as well as the Boxing Day Tsunami, the Victorian Bushfires and the Queensland Floods.

Under her leadership, the school has also strengthened its 'Police Links' program; taken part in the 'Your Face Your Story' Art/Literacy program; and participated in the annual environmental awareness program 'Volunteering for Green Day' as well as the leadership development program the 'CBA Graduates Day', among others.

Beth was nominated by Aunty Mae Robinson, an Elder of the local Indigenous community, who was announced as the winner of the Women of the West Award in 2010 in recognition of her contributions to the education and wellbeing of Indigenous people in western Sydney.

"Every day and in every way, Beth demonstrates outstanding professional and personal leadership," says Aunty Mae.

"She is tireless in her efforts towards her school and towards the good name of the Cabramatta area. She is a high energy person, who devotes a large amount of time outside normal working hours for the good of her school, staff and students."

Supporting the nomination was Ralph Norris, outgoing CEO of the Commonwealth Bank, who described Beth Godwin as "an inspirational leader."

"Beth demonstrated great wisdom and compassion in her approach and had a consistent focus on finding new and innovative ways to support her students," says Mr Norris.

Cabramatta High students Andrew Phong and Dragan Cekic describe a Principal who "is not distant" and has a personal relationship with her students.

"She is always willing to lend a helping hand, for example, she will always enquire after a student who experiences difficulties, if she sees them in the playground."

Since becoming a teacher Beth has enhanced her professional life through post graduate studies at the University of Western Sydney through the completion of a Certificate of Management in School Administration (1991) and a Bachelor of Education (1997).

Photo: Sally Tsoutas

Contact: Danielle Roddick, Senior Media Officer