Pauline's Prendergast
After more than four decades of inspiring students ākonga and helping shape
Speech New Zealand, Pauline is stepping down from the Speech New Zealand Board.
Pauline's journey with Speech New Zealand began in 1979 when she started teaching the Public Speaking syllabus at St Patrick's College, Silverstream. Over the following decades,
she also taught at Sacred Heart College, St Peter and Paul School, and Marsden Collegiate, nurturing the communication skills and confidence of hundreds of students ākonga. At one stage, Pauline taught up to 140 students ākonga each year, with many progressing to diploma examinations whakamātautau ā-waha.
It has been a wonderful experience working for Speech New Zealand, as I have learnt so much about my craft and met many amazing people who have widened my horizons greatly.
My sincere thanks to the Board of trustees and staff at NATO who have supported me along the way.
A lifelong advocate for excellence in communication, Pauline completed her Licentiate in Speech and Drama Public Speaking Diploma before later gaining her Diploma of Professional Speaking. She has also served as a Speech New Zealand examiner kaiarotake matua for many years, a role she will continue to enjoy.
In 2012, Pauline joined the Speech New Zealand Board as a trustee before becoming Vice Chair and, six years ago, Chair. During her time in governance, she has provided wise leadership, unwavering commitment, and a genuine passion for supporting Speech New Zealand's mission and the people it serves.
On behalf of everyone at Speech New Zealand, we extend our sincere gratitude to Pauline for her exceptional contribution, leadership, and dedication. Her influence has been felt by countless students ākonga, teachers kaiako, examiners kaiarotake matua, and colleagues, and her legacy will continue to inspire for many years to come.
While Pauline is stepping down from the Board, we are delighted that she will remain an important part of the Speech New Zealand family through her continued work as an examiner kaiarotake matua. We thank her for everything she has given to Speech New Zealand and wish her every happiness in this next chapter.