St Thomas More College is pleased to announce the appointment of Melissa (Mim) Jones as the new Head of College. Mim has been Deputy Head of College since 2022.
Mim brings extensive experience in residential college leadership, student wellbeing, governance, and higher education administration. Her appointment reflects both her strong leadership credentials and her deep understanding of the College’s mission, community, and future direction.
During her time as Deputy Head, Mim played a key role in shaping the College’s strategic priorities, strengthening governance and risk management frameworks, and enhancing the student experience. She led significant initiatives across compliance, wellbeing, digital transformation, and staff development, including embedding best-practice, whole-of-organisation approaches aligned with the National Code on Gender-Based Violence.
Mim has represented St Thomas More College widely across the University of Western Australia and the broader residential college sector, contributing to university and national committees focused on safer communities, student wellbeing, and best practice in residential life.
Prior to joining the College, Mim held senior leadership roles in residential colleges and universities in Australia and internationally, including at Trinity Residential College and the University of Michigan. Her professional background spans education, student administration, governance, and community engagement, supported by postgraduate qualifications in education and leadership.
Reflecting on her appointment, Mim said stepping into the role of Head of College was both an honour and a responsibility she embraced wholeheartedly.
“I am committed to leading a community where students feel safe, supported, and challenged to grow intellectually, socially, emotionally, and spiritually,” she said.
“As Head of College, I look forward to working closely with staff, students and our wider stakeholders to strengthen a culture grounded in respect, service to others, and academic excellence. Central to this work is supporting students to become well-rounded young adults – leaving the College with more than a degree; with confidence and a strong sense of responsibility to themselves and to others.
“Having been a resident of a college myself, I understand the lasting impact that residential life can have. The friendships formed, the skills developed, and the memories created during this time often shape people well beyond their university years. It is a privilege to help create that experience for others and to build a community that supports growth, connection, and lifelong belonging,” she added.
The Chair of College Council, Peter Tranter, said the appointment reflected the Council’s confidence in Mim’s leadership and vision.
“In appointing Mim, the Council’s focus is on ensuring leadership, stability and confidence as we work toward a number of new and exciting strategic goals for the College. With her unique knowledge and experience of residential life at St Thomas More, and of the broader tertiary sector, Mim is perfectly placed to lead the College in its next chapter,” he said.
“On behalf of the Council, I would also extend my sincere thanks to Tom Mitchell for his leadership and service as Head of College over the past 13 years. Tom’s contribution to the life of the College, the wellbeing of students, and the strength of the Tommy More community is deeply appreciated. “The Council is confident that Mim’s experience, values, and commitment to student formation will guide St Thomas More College positively into its next chapter. We look forward to her leadership as the College continues to support students to thrive academically, personally, and in service to others.”