Servant leader

Ron a model citizen: helps where he can

When Ron Green decided to become a teacher, he wanted to go to only one place: Avondale. Talking with assistant deans Stephen Piez and Shane Roberts in the men’s residence influenced the direction of his life. Taking Sabbaths off from study became a habit he now encourages his students to adopt. And meeting Deslie Millist led to a wedding the day after graduation and the blessing of four “quirky, unique individuals”—Taitt, Elliott, Eliana and Uriah.

Ron and Deslie raised their family in the Top End town of Katherine. Impressed to go in 2005, “we handed in our notices of resignation without employment secured.” Ron is now a teacher at St Joseph’s Catholic College and “helps out around the town where I can.” That’s an understatement. He’s head elder at his local Seventh-day Adventist church, the local State Emergency Service (SES) unit leader, president of the Northern Territory SES Volunteer Association, a director on the national SES Volunteer Association, a volunteer vice-captain with the Fire and Rescue Service, a first responder and cadet leader with St John Ambulance, and an Army Reservist. Recognition of this contribution has followed, with Ron receiving a Bravery Medal—for preventing a woman being stabbed during a domestic dispute—and an Emergency Service Medal in the 2019 Queen’s Birthday Honours list.

Ron values authenticity and finds it builds respect and trust “not only with students but also with fellow educators and members of the community.” He shares stories of God’s working in his life with students “and they actually pay attention.” Celebrating with those who go on to finish high school despite finding it challenging is one of his proudest moments.

The Class of 2001 honours Ron Green’s ministry as a teacher and community leader who serves his world for good.