RINA Prinzi and her two daughters share more than just a great talent for singing.
They have all made their mark on StAloysius College in North Melbourne, which celebrates its 125th anniversary this year.
It was established in 1887 by the Sisters of Mercy as a Catholic school for girls from years 7-12.
A former student who returned as a teacher, Ms Prinzi has special affinity with the college with her two daughters, Jessica and Cassandra, following in their mother’s footsteps.
Jessica, 21, graduated from the college in 2008 and is in the fourth year of bachelor of science degree at Melbourne University with plans to study medicine.
Cassandra is studying a vocational course in hospitality at the college and hopes to forge a career as a patisserie chef.
Year 11 student Jessica says she fell in love with the college because of its community atmosphere. “A lot of the teachers there knew me from when I was a baby. I made so many friends there,” she says. “It was such a great experience. I can’t believe the school has been around for as long as it has.”
Cassandra, 16, sings in the college choir, of which her mother is the director, and performs in the school’s annual production.
“I love singing; I’ve been in the choir since I started at the school,” she says.
“It’s amazing that I’ve had the chance to share in the same experiences that my mum and sister went through – it’s a very special bond we share.”
To mark the anniversary celebrations, the college will have a special Mass at Melbourne’s St Patrick’s Cathedral on April 29 with performances from past and present choir members.
The Mass will start at 1.45pm, with former students encouraged to return to the college for afternoon tea from 3.30pm. Details: 93290411.
