The Australian Women's Register

2 hours 37 minutes. Deirdre Frances Jordan was born in Loxton, South Australia. After attending the local primary school she boarded at St Aloysius College, Adelaide. She won a scholarship to Adelaide University and in the third year of her BA studies joined the Sisters of Mercy. In 1948 Deirdre completed a DipEd and embarked upon a teaching career at St Aloysius. By 1954, aged 28, she was headmistress, a position she held until 1968. During this time she also completed an MEd at Adelaide University. Deirdre then joined the Education Department, where she held positions including Senior Lecturer and Chairman during the 1970s and 80s. She also completed an MA(Sociology) and a PhD. Her association with Flinders University began as a Foundation member of its Council in 1966 and culminated in her appointment as Chancellor in 1988. The interview focusses on her status as a religious and a woman in her educational roles, as well as her research concerning Aboriginals and adolescents.