From leading a school in the Colombian Amazon to fostering belonging at St Catherine's College, Diego Rico's journey has been shaped by a passion for education, inclusion and community.

Diego Rico (far right) with members of the College Leadership Team and AFL great Sonny Walters at the inaugural Dandjoo Darbalung Dinner.

Before joining St Catherine's College, Diego Rico's career took him across continents and communities, from the Colombian Amazon to the United States and Australia. Along the way, his work in education shaped a deep commitment to inclusion, connection and creating communities where young people feel they belong.

Today, as Dean of Culture and Community, Diego brings those experiences to St Catherine's, helping foster a welcoming and connected community for residents from all backgrounds.

We sat down with Diego to learn more about his journey, what inspires his work and why building community starts with the heart.

Congratulations on your appointment as Dean of Culture and Community. What does this role mean to you, and what excites you most about it?

This role gives me the opportunity to continue the work I care about most: creating an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community where every student feels they belong.

Through the Dandjoo Darbalung Program, I work alongside Maxine Brahim and continue learning from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, building on my experience working with Indigenous communities in the Americas. I also work with the Student Engagement Team to celebrate our intercultural community and the diversity that enriches our St Cat's community.

"I believe excellence begins by connecting with people's hearts. When people feel valued and connected, we can achieve extraordinary things together."

Your journey to St Catherine's has taken you from the Colombian Amazon to studying in the United States. Can you tell us a little about that path?

I have been fortunate to spend my career in education, working in leadership roles across schools and universities.

One of the most meaningful experiences of my career was serving as principal of a school in the Colombian Amazon, leading a community of more than 2,000 students and implementing a curriculum that celebrated diversity and promoted peace in a region deeply affected by violence.

Before that, I studied and worked at a university in Minnesota, where I discovered my passion for supporting young adults to become informed citizens who create meaningful change in society.

How have those experiences shaped the way you connect with people and build community?

My life changed after working in the Colombian Amazon. It gave me a deep understanding of the importance of community, genuine connection and working towards shared goals.

I believe excellence begins by connecting with people's hearts. When people feel valued and connected, we can work together to achieve extraordinary things.

What first brought you to Australia and eventually to St Catherine's College?

I came to Australia to be closer to family and to pursue a PhD in Education at Curtin University.

While studying at Curtin, I often saw St Cat's residents in their blue sports shirts and was struck by their strong sense of community.

What do you hope every resident experiences during their time at St Cat's?

I hope every resident discovers who they are, feels proud of their identity and plans a bright future.

Their time at St Cat's is an opportunity to discover their passions, explore new opportunities and build a foundation for the future.

Looking back, what's one moment at College that perfectly captures what this community is all about?

Each Open Day captures what our community is all about. It is an opportunity to celebrate who we are, welcome others and share the opportunities St Cat's offers.

Seeing residents proudly share their stories and reflect on how College has shaped their lives reminds me why this work matters.

There's a new face around campus! Tell us about Milo and how he came into your life.

When we learned that Maggie, our Friday dog visitor, would not be returning, my partner Ronny and I decided to adopt a companion for Bruno.

I believe the right dog finds you, and Milo has been the perfect addition to our home and, before long, the wider College community. He is a rescue dog who has brought plenty of smiles, cuddles and love into our lives.

Bruno and Milo enjoying the lawns at St Catherine's College. Milo, a rescue puppy, is the newest four-legged member of the College community.

Looking ahead, what are you most excited about for the St Cat's community this year?

This year, I am especially excited about the launch of the Dandjoo Darbalung Cultural Centre at Curtin.

Through a rich program of activities, the Centre provides a culturally safe and welcoming space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students while creating opportunities for all residents to learn about and engage respectfully with First Nations cultures.

We are also working to create a consistent experience across both campuses, where we celebrate culture and acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we are fortunate to live and learn.

Quick Fire with Diego

Coffee or tea?

Coffee, at least three times a day!

Favourite country you've visited?

Italy. I love the people, the food and the lifestyle.

One place still on your travel bucket list?

Japan.

Favourite cuisine?

Italian! My partner has just opened an Italian restaurant in Fremantle.

Favourite spot in Western Australia?

The Margaret River region. I love the beaches, the vineyards and the relaxed atmosphere.

A book you've recommended more than once?

One Hundred Years of Solitude by Colombian Nobel Prize-winning author Gabriel García Márquez. It is a powerful exploration of family, memory and Latin American identity.

How do you pronounce Milo?

The Spanish way… MEE-loh.

About Diego

Diego Rico is Dean of Culture and Community at St Catherine's College. With a career in education spanning Colombia, the United States and Australia, he is passionate about fostering inclusive communities where every student feels they belong. Before joining St Catherine's, Diego served as principal of a school in the Colombian Amazon and is currently undertaking a PhD in Education at Curtin University.

Learn more about living at St Catherine's College or book a tour.

Meet Diego Rico, Dean of Culture and Community