Howard Jenson – Roma Branch Life Membership, 2020
Howard Jenson played a significant role in the early establishment and development of ICPA in the Roma district, serving as the founding President of the Eumamurrin/Roma Branch in 1971. His leadership and determination helped establish a voice for geographically isolated families and laid the foundations for ICPA's advocacy for improved educational opportunities throughout the region.
From the outset, Howard recognised the importance of ensuring that children living in rural and remote areas had access to quality education, regardless of their geographical location. His involvement was driven by a strong belief in equal educational opportunities for all children, particularly those whose families faced the challenges of distance and isolation.
Following its establishment in 1971, the Eumamurrin/Roma Branch experienced a period of inactivity between 1973 and 1976. Recognising the ongoing need for representation and advocacy, Howard took the initiative to re-establish the Branch in 1977, bringing members together and renewing its commitment to supporting isolated families.
Howard was again elected Branch President in 1977, when the two Branches were amalgamated. His willingness to return to a leadership role demonstrated his dedication to ensuring ICPA remained active and effective within the district.
An important moment in the Branch's early history was a meeting at which Howard invited Bunny Pownall, a prominent ICPA advocate, to address members. The meeting was also attended by two Members of Parliament, Jim Corbett and Ken Tomkins, reflecting the significance of the issues being raised and the importance of engaging government representatives in discussions about rural education.
Howard's leadership during these formative years helped ensure the educational needs of isolated children remained a priority. His determination to revive the Branch after a period of inactivity demonstrated his belief in the value of ICPA and the importance of rural families having a collective voice.
In recognition of his pioneering role as founding President in 1971, leadership in re-establishing the Branch in 1977 and commitment to advocating for equal educational opportunities and boarding school access, Howard Jenson was nominated for Life Membership of the Roma Branch. His nomination acknowledged an important contribution to the early development of ICPA in the Roma district and his dedication to improving educational opportunities for geographically isolated children and their families.
