Veronica in the 2005 College production of The Wizard of Oz

At AvÐÔ°® Christi College, we believe in providing a well-rounded education that sets up our graduates to be lifelong learners and global citizens. Veronica Santoro (Class of 2006) is an example of someone who has embodied the AvÐÔ°® learner profile, exploring her talents and interests after graduation and becoming a worldly, accomplished member of society.   

Veronica took up many of the opportunities on offer during her time in high school. She was a member of Chamber Choir, an inaugural member of the Barbershop group, played in the Guitar ensemble, and travelled to Singapore on a Music tour. She participated in several Catholic Performing Arts Festivals, receiving the shield for Best Vocal Solo (Secondary) in Year 10, and in Year 11 played the lead role of Dorothy in the College Production of The Wizard of Oz. With such enthusiasm and commitment, it should come as no surprise that she went on to serve as both Music Captain and a House Captain in Year 12. In addition to being awarded Colours for Music, Veronica received the Sequere Dominum Award – one of the College’s highest honours. 

After graduation, Veronica went on to complete a Bachelor of Pharmacy at Curtin University, which led to her working as a Clinical Pharmacist at Royal Perth Hospital and assisting in the set-up of the Pharmacy department at the new St John of God in Midland. Recently, she also completed a postgraduate diploma in Clinical Pharmacy from the University of Tasmania.   

While pursuing her career goals, Veronica still kept up her interest in Music and performance. She took on lead roles with the Gilbert and Sullivan Society of WA, performed in recitals with Art Song Perth, and completed her AMEB Singing exams. In 2013, she travelled to Italy for a summer in Florence learning and performing Bel Canto (Italian operatic singing). On winning a performance award during this trip, she was flown to New York State for further recitals where she was able to showcase her God-given talent. Not done quite yet, and knowing she was able to give back to the community, she then organised a recital in Perth on her return, successfully raising funds for the Leukaemia Foundation.  

Beyond work and performance, Veronica has taken the time to travel the world and immerse herself in these experiences. She lived in London for a period shortly after getting married in 2015. She now has two boys – a three year old and one year old – whom she describes as ‘beautiful’ and ‘energetic’. She has recently returned to work after maternity leave and is enjoying motherhood.  

On reflecting on her journey so far, Veronica says she feels ‘truly blessed’ by the opportunities she’s had resulting from her education. At AvÐÔ°®, we are invested in the personal, professional and spiritual growth of our community members, and it’s updates like Veronica’s that affirm our College’s mission. Each student is more than just one talent, one interest, one goal – there is much to life beyond secondary education, and we look forward to seeing what our alumni achieve next! 

Veronica (left) with sister Amelia (Class of 2010) at the College Theatre Opening, August 2019.