St Leo’s College wishes to welcome Dan McMahon, our new CEO and head of college, from 2026.
Dan is currently principal of Shalom Catholic College; a 1560-student co-educational school in Bundaberg. He has served 17 years as principal there, after leading other Queensland schools, including St Brendan’s College in Yeppoon, St Patrick’s at Shorncliffe and St Joseph’s in Toowoomba.
Dan is also the president of the Queensland Catholic Secondary Principals’ Association, executive director of the Australian Catholic Secondary Principals’ Association and served for a decade as treasurer of Queensland Independent Secondary Schools’ Netball Association.
Indeed Dan has taught some of the residents of St Leo’s, and probably some of their parents as well!
Dan said while the college could never replicate a resident’s family, he would work with staff to encourage an atmosphere and culture where young men grew, to the best of their abilities.
“I look forward to connecting with families who will be, undoubtedly, a little bit nervous about this step away from home for their sons,’’ he said.
“St Leo himself, is one of the Catholic Church ‘greats’ who was known for his intellect and spirituality. I hope that the College will continue to embrace his intellectual drive and his personal quest for meaning through engagement with Gospel values.’’
St Leo’s Council chair Madonna King welcomed Dan, saying he was a visible, values-led and strong leader who would provide the college with a clear path forward.
“Dan’s had phenomenal experience and brings with him an ambition for the St Leo’s residents, across academics and personal growth,’’ she said.
“He was a stand-out, and I feel blessed that he has agreed to lead St Leo’s, from January next year.’’
She also thanked Sou McPhail, who will act as head of college and chief executive until December, following the resignation of former head Stephen Foley.
“Sou is a natural leader, whose inclusivity, compassion and steely determination is already making a difference. With Dan as CEO and Sou as his deputy next year St Leo’s boasts a formidable leadership team.’’
Sou said she looked forward to working with Dan to build upon strong foundations and their shared vision for the future.
“Dan’s strong commitment to our Catholic ethos – which is central to the formation of young men who are compassionate, grounded and prepared for contemporary society – will be a source of great strength for the College.’’
Know a young man who has what it takes to become a Leonian?
St Leo’s College – UQ’s only all-male college – is now accepting applications for 2026.
We’re more than just a place to live.
We’re the foundation for lifelong mateship, real leadership, and personal growth.
Spots are limited.
Find out more and apply now: https://www.stleos.uq.edu.au/apply-now
