The Report Card

Dedicated to the memory of The Reverend Canon W. H. Horace McClelland, MBE 1920-2011

The Report Card July 2012 / Volume 24, number 2 / Published by Shawnigan Lake School Advancement Office 1 July 2012 / VOLUME 24, NUMBER 2 Headmaster’s Column Intimations of Immortality

olumes of poetry, prose others, the more we shape and form their with planned, quality time together. They and song have been written relationship skills. Fittingly, more than ever allow young people room to grow through over the centuries about the before, no one is more sought after in the a multitude of learning moments, and, of finite nature of life and about realms of work and life than someone who course, they supply the different voices that beginnings and endings. Noth- knows how to relate well. wise parents have always tried to enlist in Ving, it seems, lasts forever. Wherever we modern boarding schools are set their children’s development. turn, we can be confronted all too quickly up to educate young people not only the great frustration for all of us is that by reminders that we are mere travelers and academically, but also socially, athletically, we know that there are no second chances that, “this too shall pass . . . ” artistically, culturally and spiritually. It’s with many of these parenting decisions. of course, most of us become reflective an acknowledgement that real education Just as a word uttered and heard can never or philosophical at that point and invari- has never been limited to the classroom. be recalled, we do not have the luxury of ably resolve to enjoy and recognize the Of course, many parents still struggle experimenting with our children. Life will worth of what we have. That is entirely as with the notion of “letting go” of their march on, whether we make conscious it should be, for we are at our best as beings children, of “sending them away,” or of decisions or no decisions. As the saying when we are in appreciative mode. Our “missing parts of their lives,” but the goes, “a man cannot step in the same river capacity to value each other, to love, to reality is that their sons and daughters twice, for he is not the same man and it is honor, to respect and to connect is indeed are being given a special gift. Apart from not the same river.” Time will take care of one of the features of our species that truly the obvious menu of superior opportuni- its passing and nothing goes on forever. sets us apart. We are wired and structured ties, boarding schools can cultivate the However, if we cannot achieve the to interact. independence that teenagers crave and immortality that Wordsworth alludes to perhaps the greatest gift that we can parents angst over. It’s all done in a struc- in the poem borrowed for the title, we can bestow upon our children is helping them tured and guided environment so I call it at least aspire to the next best thing. Leav- to understand how to conduct themselves “controlled independence.” It may sound ing a legacy in the broadest sense of the when the “curtain goes up.” The more often like an oxymoron, but no more so than term must surely be a goal of most adults. we put young people in the company of the relativity of free speech, or individual That legacy can take many forms, but, in freedom itself. one of its more attractive guises, it stays for most parents, letting in the realm of character and qualities of go is increasingly perturb- being that last a lifetime. Most schools ing as the moment ap- aspire to prepare their students for the proaches; that moment next stage of their lives, but some go fur- when, running alongside ther; they aspire to prepare them for the the two-wheeler with the tests that life will set for them. They seek stabilizers off, you know to develop the habits and attitudes, the it’s time to release your self-belief and the work ethic, the values hold on the back of the and virtues that, in combination, will seat, but you can’t. Multi- make up their character. And, as another ply that feeling many times well-known quotation so aptly captures, and you have the dilem- “ . . . the applause soon fades away, the mas of parenting teens in spotlight dims, but the character you general. When to inter- build is yours forever.” vene, when to stand back, that’s as close as we will get to immor- when to let go—and how tality, because we invariably hope the same much to let go? Nobody character will color and shape the lives of has all the answers, but so many other fellow travelers. It is indeed schools like Shawnigan can one form of legacy that can live for a very supply the experiences that long time. will address many. Board- ing schools can actually strengthen family relationships by removing some of the traditional points of friction and replacing them David Robertson, Headmaster Photo: The Headmaster pays tribute to the guest of honour at Horace McClelland’s 90th birthday celebration in 2010. Read more about Horace’s legacy beginning on page 12.

2 Shawnigan Lake School / The Report Card News at Shawnigan 1st XV Defeats New Zealand Champs! by Ryan Panton

he Sanix World Rugby Youth Invitational Tourna- But somebody must have forgotten to tell Shawnigan. What ment has grown in stature since its inception in 2000, was meant to be a whitewash was more akin to a prize fight, a back and is now widely considered the unofficial high school and forth affair with bone-crunching tackling, incisive running and world rugby championship. Each year, eight top school- slick ball-handling on display from both sides. Against all odds, boy sides from around the world take to the pitch with the 1st XV made it to halftime leading 8-5. Could they withstand Teight teams from Japan for ten days of competition and camara- everything their foes could muster in the second half? derie. 2012 marked the fourteenth edition of the tournament, and soon after Shawnigan stretched their perilous lead with two for the first time one of the teams invited to compete was clad in penalties, the Kelston side struck back with two quick tries and took black and gold and making the trip from Vancouver Island. a 15-14 lead with time quickly ticking off the clock. After playing three other times Canada has sent teams to the Sanix Tourna- their opponents to a virtual standstill, it looked as though the 1st ment, and on each occasion the schools struggled mightily against XV would come up just short. The boys steeled their nerves and, their international opponents, registering only a single victory. after a frantic restart, earned a penalty just ten metres inside their The Shawnigan side that took to the field did so having already opponents’ half on the stroke of fulltime. Shortly after sizing up determined that, this year, things would be different. With three the biggest kick of his life, fly-half Guiseppe D. ’13 would play the consecutive Provincial titles under their collective belt, the team hero, coolly splitting the uprights and making the final score 17-15 was quietly confident in their ability to prove that Canadian high Shawnigan! school teams were capable of performing on the world stage. It was, without exaggeration, the biggest victory in the history And perform they did. of the Shawnigan rugby program and, possibly, in the history of After splitting their first two pool games against Japanese op- Canadian schoolboy rugby. The Shawnigan team became the talk ponents, the team entered the final day of pool play with a truly of the tournament, and were flooded with congratulations from daunting adversary before them: Kelston Boys High School, from supporters around the world. Though their victory was not enough the rugby hotbed of Auckland, New Zealand. Long known as a to see 1st XV through to the top half of the knockout stage of producer of top grade talent, including several current and former the tournament, they followed their historic win with two more, All Blacks, Kelston entered the match as favourites, not only for the eventually leaving Japan with a 4-2 record, a 10th place finish and games itself, but also the entire tournament. The defending New a lifetime of memories. Congratulations, boys! Zealand National Champions had overwhelmed the two Japanese to read more about Shawnigan’s experiences at the 2012 Sanix sides in the pool, and were looking to position themselves favour- World Rugby Youth Invitational Tournament, please visit the team’s ably entering the knockout phase of competition. blog at http://shawnigan1stxvsanix.wordpress.com/.

3 July 2012 / VOLUME 24, NUMBER 2 NEWS at Shawnigan Hector McIntosh Award

he Hector McIntosh Speech Competition is held Congratulations to Maddie, and to all of the other Shawnigan annually in Duncan, BC, and features competition from students who submitted their work to the competition! – RP schools throughout the Cowichan Valley. Named in honour of a former Shawnigan teacher, the award was won this year by grade 11 student Maddie T. ’13. Maddie’s Tspeech, about real-life heroes, overcoming fears and exceeding expectations, was selected by a panel of experts, and for her efforts she received a $1,200 prize to be used toward post-secondary studies. Here is an excerpt from Maddie’s winning submission:

“Before I fell off that cliff I had heroes like Harry Potter, Super- man, and, because I was a bit of a nerd, Beowulf. After my near- death experience I turned to two new heroes, who might well be the bravest cowards of all time. Charles Maurice Talleyrand was the survivor of multiple French regimes. John Yossarian was the fearful captain from the novel Catch 22 by Joseph Heller. For someone who gets mind-numbingly scared, not only after fall- ing off of a cliff, but daily life encounters with germs and horror movies, they gave me a renewed source of inspiration!”

Dogwood Scholarship Winners by Kelly Koepp hawnigan is proud to congratulate seven students the Dogwood evenings are festive and inclusive affairs, with who were awarded 2012 Dogwood District Scholarships students sharing tips and socializing with fellow Shawnigan stu- by the British Columbia Ministry of Education. dents and competitors from other schools alike. While the atmo- Dogwood Scholarships are awarded annually to BC sphere this year was as jovial as ever, the chance to win over the students who demonstrate superior achievement in any adjudicators made for more than a few nervous moments. Sarea of fine arts, leadership, athletics, music, applied skills and “I was the first applicant to apply for the Yearbook and Jour- languages. Applicants showcase their talents at an adjudication nalism category in a long time,” recalled Hailey Hewstan ’12, “and evening, after which evaluators determine the recipients of the I was really nervous going into the interview. I think the diverse $1000 awards. At this year’s event, Shawnigan students competed portfolio of Yearbook projects that I presented must have conveyed against grade 12 students from Independent Schools across Van- my true passion for the area.” couver Island, and presented achievements through performance While each scholarship winner possesses talent in their own pieces, portfolios or a formal interview. right, many of the students eagerly acknowledged the support they had received from Shawnigan teachers on their road to excellence. “I think the fact that I’d been published helped a lot,” says Tala Brewster ’12, “but I believe the adjudicators really took to heart the things that Mr. Connolly wrote about me in his letter of reference. I am so appreciative of his support for the things he wrote, but even more for everything he has taught me and all the inspiration he has given me in the two years that I have had him as a teacher.”

Congratulations to our Scholarship Winners: Tala Brewster - Creative Writing Hailey Hewstan - Yearbook/Journalism Jordan Johl - Performance in Sport: Individual Chelsea Kingzett - Studio Arts: Drawing/Painting Ines Receveaux - Second Languages: French Michaela Thomas - Textiles Lizzie Yates - Performance in Sport: Team

4 Shawnigan Lake School / The Report Card News at Shawnigan California Dreamin’

HILE MOST OF THE SCHOOL was carving Highlights included visits to the iFly Vertical Wind Tunnel, the turns at Ski Week, fifteen senior AP Physics Stanford Linear Accelerator, the Dryden Flight Research Centre and, students were taking part in this year’s Shawni- of course, Disneyland! The tourists returned from the adventure gan Physics Tour in sunny California. For three with a reinvigorated passion for physics they will carry with them incredibly busy (and equally rewarding) days, to university, and beyond. Wthe students and their chaperones, Stephen and Judy Lane, trav- to find out more about the inaugural Physics Tour, and see elled first to the Bay Area and then south to Los Angeles, visiting photos of their experiences in California, visit their blog at some of the true hotspots of the world of physics along the way. http://www.physicstour2012.wordpress.com. – RP

A Reminder by Julianne Hennig ’12, Head of School At the beginning of April, Haydn Evans and I were fortunate to join Mr. Robertson on a trip to Parksville to visit the grave of Shawnigan’s founder, C.W. Lonsdale. After driving north, we arrived at a small, but beautiful graveyard where, standing tall and strong, was Mr. Lonsdale’s gravestone. It was a powerful reminder for me of where the School had started. In the busyness of Shawni- gan it can be easy to forget the home that 450-plus students from around the world now know was once a school for only a handful of boys (and girls). I don’t imagine Mr. Lonsdale could have dreamed of this astonishing achievement. It gives me great pride to say I have been able to be part of the Shawnigan experience, and visiting the Founder’s grave helped me remember how lucky I am. More importantly, it gave me a chance to be thankful for his vision, and for the continuing of his work that goes on today and makes Shawnigan such a remarkable place.

5 July 2012 / VOLUME 24, NUMBER 2 news at shawnigan University Acceptances by Shrawan Khanna, Director of University Guidance he end of a school year brings multi-talented academics, athletes and artists. The Class of 2012 a bittersweet feeling to Shawnigan’s Shawnigan prides itself not in creating any received more than University Guidance Office. The pride one “cookie cutter”-type student, but rather that emanates from our grade 12’s as in developing young men and women whose 300 acceptances to they step into the “world out there” strengths and talents are truly unique. The path Twith confidence is a source of satisfaction for to post-secondary life, then, is unique to each universities and colleges us. What rings clear is the variety of students person, and our job is to help each student find around the world . . . that exist within the graduating class—they are his or her best fit. Some find that fit in the US Ivy Leagues, others in the Ivy schools of the north. Many continue the “Shawnigan-esque” experience of liberal arts education, delving into all realms of academia, while others march straight into hotel management, engineering or business to pursue long held ambitions. Each finds a niche that will ultimately lead them to success in their area while hopefully following passions that create happiness and enjoyment. the Class of 2012 received more than 300 acceptances to universities and colleges around the world, garnering three quarters of a million dollars in scholarship money in the process. This is no small feat, and speaks to the dedication, native intelligence and drive in this year’s group. We now become mere onlookers as this year’s class follows their dreams, but look forward already as the Class of 2013 puts on their dancing shoes in readiness for their “last dance” at Shawnigan. We hope our newest alumni take the time to enjoy the excitement of the next steps! A few of the schools the Class of 2012 have been accepted to for next year are listed below.

International Northeastern University McMaster University London School of Business Northwestern University Memorial University Loughborough University Savannah College of Mt. Allison University Les Roches Hotel Management School Art and Design Queen’s University University of Bristol Tufts University Ryerson University University of Edinburgh University of California Simon Fraser University University of Glasgow – Various Campuses Trinity Western University University of Kent University of Chicago University of Alberta University of Nottingham University of Notre Dame University of British Columbia University of Pennsylvania Haskayne School of Business United States University of Southern California – University of Calgary Barnard College Vassar College University of Northern BC Boston College University of Saskatchewan Bowdoin College Canada University of Toronto Colgate University Brock University University of Victoria Cornell University Carleton University Richard Ivey School of Business Emory University Concordia University – University of Western Ontario George Washington University Dalhousie University University of Windsor Middlebury College McGill University York University

6 Shawnigan Lake School / The Report Card NEWS at Shawnigan Shawnigan United Nations by Kelly Koepp

he Shawnigan Model UN confer- delegate registration. Johnny, who also served ence marked its second year on campus as Secretariat at the Vancouver Model UN last with growth and expansion, both in winter, was impressed with the discussion gener- terms of students participating and the ated by this year’s representatives. “The quality The quality of variety of committees. Eight schools of debate and the level of intellectualism pre- debate and the level Tand more than 65 delegates attended the confer- sented by youth from the Island truly amazed ence, which featured four committees focused on me, and showed me what a great environment of intellectualism issues that included the Arab Spring, the admis- the conference has created.” presented by youth shawnigan teacher and Model UN leader, Paul Klassen, was pleased with the growth and from the Island truly adjustments to this year’s program. “This year’s amazed me, and conference saw more students participate than last year,” he says. “The event was unique in showed me what a that it offered an intimate committee atmo- great environment the sphere, especially when compared to large con- ferences where students do not have as many conference has created. opportunities to speak. I’m proud of all of our students for helping create an environment in which each delegate could find his or her own voice.”

sion of Turkey into the European Union, the proxy war in Angola and the proposed En- bridge pipeline. the event opened with a keynote address from Member of Par- liament (Nanaimo-Co- wichan) Jean Crowder, who discussed the role of gender in politics and a variety of issues related to international development. Delegates were also read a personal letter from current United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon that praised attendees for their interest in current world affairs and politics. “It is often said that youth are the leaders of tomorrow,” Mr. Ki-moon noted, “but I see youth as leaders of today. Young people around the world are already showing initiative and inspiring others.” the Shawnigan Model United Nations is the only high school-run conference of its kind on Vancouver Island. This year’s Secretariat was lead by Shawnigan students Johnny Brynelsen ’12 and Max M. ’13, who were responsible for ensuring every element of the conference’s success, including administering the website and handling

7 July 2012 / VOLUME 24, NUMBER 2 News at Shawnigan

A Fond Farewell by Kelly Koepp

hen the 2011-12 school Vanessa Smith ‘12’s praise for Mrs. Stroebel, year drew to a close, Shawnigan her House Director for five years, could be used did not just say goodbye to 121 to characterize the contributions of every one of graduates—we also bade four the so-called “Fab Four.” beloved House Directors fare- “Because of stereotypes concerning boarding Wwell as they traded in their House keys for new schools, when I arrived at Shawnigan, I expected challenges at the School. There are no words to a strict and rigorous House Director,” she says. adequately express the appreciation of the School “Within moments, I was overwhelmed by her Many come in as rough community for the dedication shown by each of warmth and love of everyone who passed through these talented individuals. her doors. She is not only an amazing mother to diamonds, and every “Shawnigan is built on adults investing every all of us, but an outstanding individual, equal day you cut a new facet ounce of themselves in our students, and no- parts love and respect. Mrs. Stroebel and her where is this more visible and tangible than with husband have given a gift to 11 years’ worth of on the stone until their long-standing, successful House Directors,” says Groves’ girls, cheering for us during our successes brilliance emerges. By Headmaster David Robertson. “We are immensely and holding us up through our mistakes.” proud of these four mentor figures and deeply the four veterans are looking forward to life graduation you know grateful for their dedication.” at Shawnigan minus the demands of maintaining you have made a huge erica Dalrymple (Kaye’s, 19 years), Gaynor a 24 hour a day, 7 day a week open dialogue with Stroebel (Groves’, 11 years), Gary Dukelow up to 50 families—not to mention the 2am bed difference . . . (Duxbury, 6 years) and Julie Conroy (Renfrew checks! In every case, the cherished memories the North, 4 years) all stepped down from their House Directors take with them far outweigh any respective helms at the end of June. Every one fleeting negative moments they may have had to of the hundreds of students whose lives were endure. impacted by these four passionate individuals is “I’ll definitely miss the rice evenings on ev- grateful for the combined 40 years of patience, eryone one of my duty nights, and the birthday commitment, guidance and love they have of- celebrations for each student with a homemade fered as House Directors. cake baked by my wife,” says Mr. Dukelow. “ There is no one special moment, but a mass of many special moments rolled into one. I’ll miss it all.” “I’ll miss the relationships I’ve been able to develop with families spanning generations of siblings, parents and grandparents,” Mrs. Stroebel reflects. Likewise, Ms. Conroy says, “The relationships built with the girls are the most rewarding parts of the job. It is an honour to be a part of their lives and when they come back to campus and visit—it just melts my heart.” Perhaps it is fitting that the final word go to the record-holder as longest serving female House Director. “Mrs. D” sums up the hardest part of stepping down and the greatest reward of her 19 years at Kaye’s, saying, “What I’ll miss the most is letting them (the students) go at the end of the year and knowing that I’ve made a difference. Many come in as rough diamonds, and every day you cut a new facet on the stone until their brilliance emerges. By graduation you know you have made a huge difference, and that’s the magical part of what is probably one of the hardest jobs in the world.”

8 Shawnigan Lake School / The Report Card News at Shawnigan Staff Appreciation Day Address by Trish Letient, Chair of the Shawnigan Lake School Parents Association

feel privileged to be able to speak to you lean on when things go wrong? Who will today on behalf of parents. We want you to tell them to keep their elbows off the table know how much you are truly appreciated. at dinner time? Who will celebrate their At any parent gathering I have attended, as successes with them? Who will encourage you might imagine, parents often talk about them after defeat? Who will talk about Ithe School and about you. What do we say? We values? About what it means to live in a share our admiration for Shawnigan, and for you. community? These are all questions that We share stories of staff members who have gone sit in our guts as we say good-bye to our out of their way for our children, and we express children that first day at Shawnigan. All the how grateful we are that our sons and daughters moms who have, on that first day, clenched attend Shawnigan. It is only right that these tissues, and wiped away overflowing tears heart-felt tributes be shared with you. To quote know what I am talking about. Our hearts William Arthur Ward, “Feeling gratitude and not may be breaking, but our heads know this expressing it is like wrapping a present and not is the right thing to do. giving it.” Today, I offer you the gift of gratitude When Daniel was accepted into from all Shawnigan parents, current and past. Shawnigan I was so nervous. I remember to help you understand just how deeply felt writing to Mr. Robertson, basically remind- that gratitude is, I’d like to illustrate the Shawni- ing him that I was giving my precious son gan parent’s perspective by sharing my own into his care and I expected him to take story. As I am sure many of you know, Daniel, that responsibility seriously. Let’s just my eldest son, came to Shawnigan in grade 9 say I didn’t know our Headmaster at that while we were living overseas; Josh came two time. Since, I have to admit to being somewhat Trish and son, Josh, at years later in grade 8 and the following year we awestruck by him—a true Scottish Clan Chief Whister Grad, 2011 moved to Shawnigan to be closer to them. Our who definitely takes the responsibility for the family made personal and financial sacrifices Shawnigan Clan seriously! Besides his reassur- to keep our boys here and ultimately to have ance, I had a good feeling about this place. It Nicho here. Our story is not unique—there are doesn’t take long to feel the soul here. So I signed many Shawnigan families who have decided Daniel into your care and I needn’t have worried that the most precious gift they could give their because you all held Daniel up as you hold up child is a Shawnigan education and they make each child who has ever been here. similar sacrifices. When I visited I was amazed. You knew me, Why do we feel so strongly? I would suggest and if you didn’t know me then you definitely knew I used to joke that I that we all feel that intangible essence that is my son, and you knew how he was doing. There are thought you all had a Shawnigan—there is a soul in this place, and you 450 students here! And each parent has the same are at the heart of it. While you go about your experience! I used to joke that I thought you all had dossier on each student daily tasks you may not realize the effect you are a dossier on each student that you took home every that you took home having on the community around you. Remem- night to study. How else could you know so much? ber what Aristotle said, “the whole is greater than But after eight years of being a Shawnigan parent, I every night to study. the sum of its parts.”Every lesson taught, every know how you do it. You care, all of you. How else could you athlete coached, every flower planted, every you take the responsibility to care for our meal prepared, every shirt pressed, every carpet children seriously. You are kind when gentleness know so much? But vacuumed, every dollar raised, every theatre is needed and firm when discipline is required. after eight years of being set constructed, every computer problem fixed, You challenge our children to be the best they every report card written and every friendly can be, and while we may hear some grumbling a Shawnigan parent, encounter with students and parents, every from them along the way, on Closing Day your I know how you do it. job you do, the way you do it, strengthens the hard work is embodied in the poised young men Shawnigan spirit. and women who are ready to meet their futures. You care, all of you. It is that spirit that is so important to par- Parents know what you do. They know the long ents. It is no easy thing to send your child to hours you work. They know that you go out Shawnigan, whether you are a boarding parent of your way to be there for our children. They or day student parent. We give up the constant know that you put your heart into this school contact with our children; we find it difficult to and it shows. That is why we are passionate know our children’s friends, or the families of about Shawnigan. That is why we are so grateful their friends. We wonder who is watching out for to you. them. Who will give them a hug or a shoulder to on behalf of all parents, thank you.

9 July 2012 / VOLUME 24, NUMBER 2 news AT SHAWNIGAN Spring Productions

10 Shawnigan Lake School / The Report Card news AT SHAWNIGAN Mathematicians Exceed Expectations by Stephen Cox

ongratulations to the 75 enthu- linked to mathemat- siastic young mathematicians who ics curricula in Canada, participated in the Pascal, Cayley, and and the questions range Fermat math contests in April. These from easy to very chal- national contests are for students in lenging. Cgrades 9 through 11 and are sponsored, in part, this year, approxi- by the University of Waterloo. They involve mately 74,000 students problem-solving questions which are not directly from across the country participated and we had some impressive results with many scores above the 90th percentile—remember that students who participate in these contests typically have some very strong abilities in mathematics. Our winners’ scores ranged from the 87th percentile to Jae Joon L. ’13, who recorded a score of 99.9 percent—the third highest score in Canada!

Shawnigan Prepatory Academy s Shawnigan pursues its strategy of that learning a comprehensive curriculum offers becoming a truly global school, the to a non-native English speaker. School has identified English language though the Preparatory Academy is still in its in- Though the Preparatory comprehension as a significant road- fancy, it has already been recognized as a revolution- block that prevents many otherwise ary step in international boarding school education. Academy is still in its Aideal candidates from successfully transitioning to As Shawnigan seeks to further diversify its student infancy, it has already life on campus. With the goal of continued suc- body to one day boast young men and women from cessful expansion into non-traditional markets like more than forty countries across the globe, the Prep been recognized as a Russia, Turkey and Brazil where potential students will be an ever-more vital component of continued revolutionary step in meet all admissions criteria save an adequate grasp academic success, not only for our international stu- of English, the Shawnigan Preparatory Academy dents, but for all who study within our gates. To learn international boarding opened its doors to students for the first time in more about the Shawnigan Preparatory Academy, school education. September 2011. The inaugural class was comprised please contact Shawnigan’s Director of Enrollment of eight students who were exposed to a rigorous and Marketing, Chad Holtum, at 250-743-6216 or academic program that included complete immer- [email protected]. – RP sion in English in order to attain a level of comprehension that would facilitate seamless transition into Shawnigan for the 2012-13 school year. the first program of its kind anywhere in North America, students in “the Prep” stay in a newly-renovated dormitory where they learn about dorm life, and are also immersed into many aspects of the regular Shawnigan program, including Fine Arts and Athletics. Prep students are instructed by a group of dedicated teachers with extensive ESL teaching experience. These educators are uniquely capable of offering the one to one guidance that has become a hallmark of the Shawnigan educational experience, while at the same time attending to the unique challenges

11 July 2012 / VOLUME 24, NUMBER 2 news AT SHAWNIGAN Reflections: Horace McClelland by Jay Connolly ’80 (Lake’s) met Horace McClelland for the first time escorted, at the sharp end of an umbrella, to the on a November afternoon in 1976. next voluntary Chapel service. At the time, I knew nothing of private It takes a special soul to succeed as Chaplain education. My parents, however, were look- in an all-boys school. Unless they are devoutly ing to place me in a nice, middle-class reform raised, adolescent males are perplexed by matters . . . a man who Ischool. Both Shawnigan and Brentwood came of the spirit and generally like to avoid command- genuinely liked highly recommended. ments of any kind. Horace perfectly understood the only detail I recall from my Brentwood this. He knew his job was to sow seeds, not regis- students, who interview was that students stood at attention, ter conversions. As a paratrooper, a Green Beret, understood that they backs to the wall, when the Headmaster walked and a passionate sportsman, he had a legitimate by with my family. I was 6’2” and 240 pounds at pedigree in our eyes. More importantly, he was sometimes failed to the time, but I found the place intimidating. quick to laugh and never prudish. make good on their A few hours later, we arrived at Shawnigan and In fact, his was the most trustworthy kind were interviewed by Horace McClelland and Derek of religious faith—largely because there was no promises, and who Hyde-Lay. The impression they gave could not religiosity in it. The depth of his conviction was knew that laughter have been more different from the sense I’d picked expressed through the generosity of his spirit and up down the road. This was due largely to Horace’s the kindness of his actions. shared after the fact personal warmth, a quality he demonstrated by Horace liked to tell the story of walking the was its own kind of brandishing his Shawnigan umbrella at boys who campus with a family and a grade 12 tour guide. had failed to attend “voluntary” Chapel. When the mother asked about Chapel, the boy worship. What I saw, though I could not have explained responded, “Well, there’s not too much.” Horace it at the time, was a man who genuinely liked took that to mean he’d struck the right balance students, who understood that they sometimes in the lives of the students. failed to make good on their I’m sure that Horace’s consistency owed no promises, and who knew that small debt to Sheila, who was always there to laughter shared after the fact provide a leavening measure of patience when the was its own kind of worship. pressures of the School strained her husband. She on our walk to the water- was his equal in wit, in laughter, and in love, and front, my father went ahead we cherish her still. with Horace, and I pulled at As many of you will appreciate, the finest my mother’s sleeve to slow Shawnigan teachers have always served in loco pa- her down. “If I have any say rentis— “in the place of parents.” In the immediate in this,” I told her, “I want to absence of parents, a student looks to his teachers go here.” That comment was for approval when he’s done something good; he a direct response to Horace’s avoids them when he’s in trouble; and he hopes, personality. I liked and trusted long after he’s left school, that they remember him the man immediately. as fondly as he remembers them. To my mind, this A while ago, my mother is nowhere more powerfully expressed than in recalled two things from that the return to this chapel by scores of young men day. The first was her impres- to have Horace preside at their weddings. It was sion that Horace was always a way of acknowledging the importance of the on the verge of laughter. The School and the Chapel, but it was also a gesture second was that when he of great trust and affection for Horace. took us into one of the study you know, there was a sea change in soci- bedrooms, he closed the door ety during the late 1960s and early 1970s, and so we could get a feel for the Shawnigan suffered in the crossfire. Horace’s career whole space. It was then that spanned some of the most difficult years in the he found himself standing School’s history, and yet he was part of a “golden with my mother beside the age” of sorts. The School owes its survival to a core life-sized poster of a severely group of men who stood for Shawnigan. They underdressed woman. Briefly, were people of immense character—among them she said, his humour disap- Pat MacLachlan, Graham Anderson, Derek Hyde- peared. Lay, Hugh Wilkinson, and of course Horace. They I am confident that the embodied, in word and practice, the values of the occupants of the room were Founder, and they dominated the School in a way

12 Shawnigan Lake School / The Report Card news AT SHAWNIGAN

that no group ever will again. Their collective force was such that many wondered what the The Horace McClelland Chapel Ministry Fund School would look like once they were gone. by Steve Housser ’67 (Groves’) Now they are gone, and the School flourishes partly because their example is the legacy we In recognition of the exceptional role Reverend McClelland played in carry forward. the Shawnigan community, and especially in the Chapel, Shawnigan No doubt the integral role of this chapel in has elected to rename the Chapel Ministry Fund in his honour. Anyone school life today owes a great deal to Horace’s who wishes to pay tribute to Reverend McClelland, or “Horace” as he was masterful stewardship. happy to be affectionately addressed by legions of alumni, can now do so on the 100 or so occasions I saw Horace by contributing to the Horace McClelland Chapel Ministry Fund. after his retirement, I’d guess that three-quarters the purpose of the fund will remain the same: to support the good of them took place on special occasions in this building. I was fortunate to visit him in the Na- works of the Chapel with funds for flowers, new hymn books, and, as naimo Hospital a week before he died. We had a often happens, to help students with sudden, unexpected expenses. In great chat, but that’s not what I’ll think of when the past, the Chapel Ministry Fund has assisted students who could oth- I remember him. I’ll always see him here, in this erwise not afford it the chance to return home and visit a dying relative. pulpit, or standing just outside the doors with a The fund allows for the purchase of candles for Easter and Christmas, as Book of Common Prayer in one hand, or smil- well as appropriate Chaplain and Sacristan robes. It is also responsible ing and chuckling as yet another of his old boys for keeping the organ in fine tune. At some point it is hoped the Horace approaches with a hand extended and a laugh to McClelland Chapel Ministry Fund might also pay for a lovely stained share. glass window to honour both Horace and his widow Sheila. As a key component of the School’s heart and spirit, the Chapel plays a vital role in the overall well-being of the entire Shawnigan community. by Walter van Halst ’84 (Lonsdale’s) Giving the School and the Chaplain the financial flexibility to enhance or four 5-year generations of old this role is a most positive way of thanking the man who gave so much boys who called Shawnigan home between of his life to Shawnigan. 1967 and 1987, the passing of Rev. Canon As a Headmaster, teacher, coach, mentor and Chaplain for 20 years, W.H. Horace McClelland has caused feel- Horace contributed immeasurably to the moral fabric of Shawnigan. You ings of sadness but an even greater sense Fof admiration. Without question, “Horace” was a can acknowledge and celebrate his legacy by a gift to the Horace McClel- giant of a man who not only touched every aspect land Chapel Ministry Fund. All donations are eligible for a tax receipt and of school life, he touched students as only a man count as a gift to the Annual Fund. Please give generously in Horace’s who served as Chaplain, Headmaster, teacher and memory and help keep his legacy alive. For further information, please rugby coach could do. contact the Advancement Office at 250-743-6235. With a smile as warm as his Irish heart, Horace was devout without being judgmental, accepting but uncompromising and above all else, a true “people person” who genuinely cared for every preached but practiced, he, “suffered all student, staff member, parent and even guest who the children unto him.” ever entered Shawnigan’s gates. It is impossible, truly, to calculate the In an age of focus groups, impulsive “twittering” contribution of such a man to Shawni- and the cult of personality, Horace leaves a legacy of gan—and the Rev. Canon W.H. Horace resolute leadership, as steadfast as his Commando McClelland would be the very first to walk across the campus. Indeed, it is no exag- resist anyone from doing so. Nevertheless, geration to suggest that without his steady hand as whether he taught, baptized, coached, Headmaster from 1975 to 1978, Shawnigan Lake disciplined or counseled students, he School might not have survived one of the most always did so out of love. Along with the dire financial periods in its history. Founder, C.W. Lonsdale, and a few other equally, if not more important, in the some- legendary figures such as Derek Hyde-Lay, times Darwinian all-boys, “six of the best” board- Horace McClelland had an enormous im- ing school days of decades ago, how many boys pact on every aspect of School life. More might not have survived Shawnigan Lake School importantly, this “Caring Commando” without a man of such unconditional kindness was both a passionate teacher and rugby to turn to? Whether you were the Head of School coach and a “down to earth” Chaplain and Captain of the 1st XV, or the meekest, least and Headmaster who, above all else, made academically-gifted Grade 8, Horace had time for an enormous difference in the lives of his you, and in the true Christian tradition he not just students.

13 July 2012 / VOLUME 24, NUMBER 2 SPORTS at shawnigan More Medals in St. Catharines

For three days, the s has become custom, the be- Henley course determined to write their own top student-rowers ginning of June saw a Shawnigan chapter in the history books. contingent of more than thirty After some tight qualification races against the School has to athletes and coaches boarding a very stiff competition, a total of six Shawnigan offer would test their plane in Victoria en route to St. crews advanced to Sunday finals, where three ACatharines, Ontario. For three days, the top teams managed to reach the podium. Several collective mettle against student-rowers the School has to offer would crews saved their best performances for last, some of the top rowing test their collective mettle against some of the with the highlight coming as the Junior Girls top rowing talent in Canada at the Canadian Lightweight 4+ claimed the gold medal in their talent in Canada . . . Secondary Schools Rowing Association’s 67th event as National Champions! Congratulations Annual Regatta. as well to the Senior Girls Lightweight 4+ and shawnigan’s successes at previous champi- Junior Girls 8+, who turned in bronze medal onships are well-documented, and this year’s performances, and to all of the crews for their crews took to the wa- commitment and passion that led to another ters of the Canadian fantastic season of rowing. – RP

14 Shawnigan Lake School / The Report Card SPORTS at shawnigan

Just the Beginning by Kelly Koepp

he 2012 Senior Girls Soccer season strong showings with tenacious perfor- will go down in the annals of Shawni- mances in a very difficult pool that also gan sporting lore as a special one. The included Crofton House, Okanagan team, led by of a core group of grade Mission and defending champions 12s, exceeded all expectations in secur- Burnsview. The team did very well to Ting a spot for the squad in the first AA Provincial finish third in their pool, placing them Championship in the history of the Shawnigan in the 9th-12th place playoff group. In Girls Soccer program. the knock out round the girls continued playing under the watchful eye of recent their inspired performances en route to Shawnigan coaching addition Mitsuru “Mits” Nak- securing a well-deserved 9th place finish. agawa, the girls’ expectations for the year were high In addition, Shawnigan was awarded before competitive play even began. With almost a the tournament Fair Play Award by the decade of coaching experience and an FA interna- referees and tournament committee, and tional qualification under his belt, Mits brought with Captain Lizzie Yates ’12 was also selected him a vision for the program when he became the to the Tournament All-Star team. School’s Senior Soccer Coach last year. With the commitment of players “The focus is to build consistency and good and coaches alike, the team certainly habits in the players for training and for their lives appears to be headed in the right di- as well,” Mits says. “I try to raise the expectations rection. Coach Nakagawa is confident that the players have for themselves in training, this season’s successes are merely the and teach them the value of hard work, techni- beginnings of what he sees as a peren- cal improvement and respect for themselves and nial powerhouse. everything around them. If the players commit “The junior team themselves to this process, the competitive results finished second at their will naturally follow, and hopefully this approach ISA tournament this can help them to find success in other aspects of year, a just reward for their lives.” their hard work,” he With such clear ambitions from the begin- says. “With those junior ning, it was no surprise that the Shawnigan girls athletes stepping up to stepped up to the challenge and delivered strong join a group of dynamic performances early in the season, including a 4th grade 11s for next year’s place finish at the Independent Schools Associa- program, the foundation tion (ISA) tournament, and a solid 3rd place at the is already set to build on North Island Tournament. Their placing in the this year’s success. Next latter tournament was enough to secure a spot in year we’ll be looking for the always competitive provincial tourney. a top 5 finish—if not At the Provincials, the team continued their higher!”

With almost a decade of coaching experience and an FA international qualification under his belt, Mits brought with him a vision for the program when he became the School’s Senior Soccer Coach last year.

15 July 2012 / VOLUME 24, NUMBER 2 news AT SHAWNIGAN Whistler Banquet and Ball

16 Shawnigan Lake School / The Report Card news AT SHAWNIGAN

Closing Day 2012 Congratulations Grads!

17 July 2012 / VOLUME 24, NUMBER 2 SPORTS at shawnigan Worth a Thousand Words

Congratulations to the Shawnigan 1st XV – AAA Provincial Champions, four years in a row!

18 Shawnigan Lake School / The Report Card alumnAE Profile

Anaya’s Angels by Camara Cassin ‘99

wo and a half years ago I opened a package from incredible vibrancy. My angel took wing, and the heavens opened Ryan Panton, of the Shawnigan Alumni office. Inside was for her in delight. The terrible shame about the whole thing is that a very small black and yellow Shawnigan vest for my new this disease is treatable, but only if it is tested for at birth before baby. I smiled in delight and tucked it away for the day symptoms begin. In all of North America only New York, Missouri when she would be big enough to wear it. and New Mexico look for it in their standard newborn screening. T my youngest daughter, Anaya, was born August 26, 2009. She Hundreds of children are sentenced to death every year because they was perfect, normal, and extremely beautiful. She delighted us are not tested for Krabbe and other leukodystrophies. with her presence and we reveled in our new baby. A few months I am going to change that. We have started a non-profit society later, Anaya became very ill and we rushed her to Emergency at called Anaya’s Angels. Its purpose is three fold: the hospital. After weeks of testing, we learned she had a termi- 1) to provide resources to families who have babies with the dis- nal brain disease called Krabbe Leukodsytrophy, a condition that ease, including education, medical supplies, financial help and causes the nerve cells in the brain and the central nervous system emotional support; to demyelinate. Babies with this disease have a life expectancy of 2) to advocate/lobby for Krabbe and other leukodystrophies to be 13 months. included in the standard newborn screening test; for two years I stayed home with Anaya, caring for her as she slowly lost her skills. She could no longer eat by mouth. She could 3) to educate the public and increase the number of potential no longer smile and laugh. She could not move her body or direct advocates. her eyes. Fortunately, my previous life experiences made me strong In the past six months, I have personally gone to educate the and resilient. Shawnigan taught me that I am competent, capable parents of children with this disease to make their lives better. I’ve and resourceful. Instead of buckling under the grief and fear of been to the USA, Italy, Northern Mexico and Southern Mexico. I am losing my baby, I opened up. I sought out the calm within the currently writing a book called “Krabbe Leukodystrophy: a guide for storm and was able to make her life as comfortable and beautiful parents and caregivers” that will be published by Anaya’s Angels. You as it could be under the circumstances. can learn more about the children we are helping—and how you can Her favorite things in life were simple: the sound of the birds get involved—by visiting our website at http://anayasangels.org. singing, the feeling of the sun on her face, floating in the bath tub, Anaya never had the chance to wear her Shawnigan vest. It listening to us reading her stories, and going for walks in the fresh sits in a carefully wrapped package in the attic. Today I am go- mountain air of British Columbia. Because she liked books so much, ing to buy a picture-box frame for it and hang it on the wall. It I started an initiative called “The Library of Hope.” People from all represents my strength, my ability, and my determination. It is over the world would send us their favorite children’s books to read to everything that Shawnigan stands for. Family, education, honesty, Anaya. After reading them to her, we donated more than 200 books action, and love. to the City of Nelson public library. We put a special sticker in each one that talked about Krabbe Leukodystrophy, and about Anaya. to keep my friends and family up-to-date, I started a blog (http://healinganaya.blogspot.com). Writing has always been one of my skills, and inside of two years I had thousands of people from all over the world reading it. They formed the majority of our support network. Our local community and family also helped. In order to stay home with her, provide her with alternative treatments, and still manage our family expenses, we needed to fundraise. Our community was very generous and helpful, providing not only money but also bringing us family meals when we were at the hospital for weeks at a time. My Groves’ House sisters—Nicole Morrison, Natalie (Ridout) Degoey, and Sarah Turner—were a huge support. Natalie was always there for me during emergencies at the Children’s Hos- pital, and Sarah lent her knowledge as a doctor at all times of day. It was hell, but it was a beautiful hell, and I wouldn’t trade the experience for anything. Anaya helped me to learn about what truly matters in the world. She helped me understand life, suffering, and death. Most of all she taught me about love, courage, and influence. Who would have thought that a little girl who never said a single word to anyone would influence thousands of people in her lifetime? on November 13, 2011 Anaya’s lungs collapsed and she passed away in my arms at the BC Children’s Hospital. It was cloudy all day, except for when she died—that’s when the sun came out with an

19 July 2012 / VOLUME 24, NUMBER 2 aLUMNI PROFILE

Zac Plavsic ’01 by Ryan Panton

n July 27, when thousands of athletes representing “I think the first time around, I was really just happy to be there,” more than 200 countries enter London’s Olympic reflects the Duxbury House product. “This time I feel like my training Stadium for the Opening Ceremonies of the Games of is right on track for a really strong finish. If I race as well as I can, a the XXX Olympiad, one man walking the track clad podium finish is a definite possibility.” in red and white will be a member of the Shawnigan A member of the Sailing Program during his years at Shawni- Ofamily. Zac Plavsic ’01 will be representing Canada in his second gan, Zac’s pursuit of Olympic glory means he spends more than Olympics in the Men’s RS:X Windsurfing event, looking to build 200 days on the road each year, and he has become quite adept at on his 23rd place finish at the Beijing Games in 2008. living out of a suitcase. He has already recorded two podium fin- ishes on the World Cup circuit this year, and his training partners are some of the top windsurfers in the world, including defending Olympic champion Tom Ash- ley of New Zealand. “Windsurfing is a really tough event because, unlike many Olympic events, there are ten races that go into making up your final score,” Zac says. “Depending on the weather conditions and the wind, each race can be completely different. The bottom line is that you really can’t take a day off, because while you can’t win a gold medal in a single race, you can definitely lose one.” When he’s not traveling the world or on the water training, Zac can usually be found in Vancouver working for the mattress recycling company he co-founded. Mattressrecycling.ca disposes of up to 5,000 mattresses every month, with 100% of each mattress recycled and reused. “We had heard that dumps in Metro Vancouver were processing up to 150,000 mattresses per year, and there’s really no reason any of those need to end up in the trash,” says the Vancouver native. “Not only is this a great opportunity for us to run our own business, we’re also helping keep Vancouver a greener place, which is something we really feel good about. Although he’s been spending most of his time in London learning the intrica- cies of the Olympic sailing venue, Zac was able to make a trip to Shawnigan in mid-June to speak to the School about his journey and the perseverance required to make dreams come true. After being serenaded with a rousing rendition of “O’ Canada,” Zac was presented with a Canadian flag signed by the entire Shawnigan community that he will proudly carry with him throughout the games. Congratulations on your achievements, Zac, and best of luck in London!

20 Shawnigan Lake School / The Report Card alumnI profile

Chris Lecky ’98 by Ryan Panton

ike most young people, it took some time after high else. There’s just too much of my dad (John Lecky ’57)’s en- school for Chris Lecky ’98 to find his passion in life. trepreneurial spirit in me to walk away from this ride without After completing his studies at Bishop’s University in directing where it’s heading.” tiny Lennoxville, Quebec, Chris found his way to Montreal, where he first discovered Lhis passion for entrepreneurship. “My first forays into the business world centered on luxury skin care and health products,” Chris says. “It was important for me to get practical experience in entrepreneurship so I knew what it took to be a success. Those early years also allowed me to make mistakes, which I think are critical to finding ultimate success in anything you do in life.” After spending nearly eight years as founder and co-owner of Pelle Group Ltd, Chris and his business partner sold the company to investors to focus on a side venture they had been developing since early 2007. PUR Vodka’s website claims that “The history of PUR Ultra Premium Vodka is one of determination, love, and obsession,” and in Chris’ case the statement rings absolutely true. Despite having no experience in the spirits industry, a combination of talent, dedication and tenacity has led to PUR being recognized with more than a dozen accolades, including the prestigious World Vodka Masters, which awarded its two highest honours for taste to Chris’ company in Decem- ber 2009. Making this particular recognition all the more amazing was the fact that, at the time of its awarding, PUR was not available for purchase at even a single liquor store. “When we first heard, I couldn’t even process it,” the Lake’s House grad recollects. “It didn’t even register. We’re competing against the giants of the spirits industry, companies that spend more money on advertising in a month than we do on our entire operation in a year.” success begets more success, so it was only a matter of time before public clamouring for the product resulted in PUR’s release, first at a handful of liquor stores in Quebec and then across Canada. Expansion into China, France, Australia and New Zealand is on the horizon before the end of this year, and the start-up now counts fifteen full-time employees. Although the brand is already (and un- derstandably) receiving interest from many of the “major players” in the spirit industry, both Chris and his partner, Nicolas Duvernois, seem commit- ted to maintaining control of PUR, at least for the time being. “I would be crazy to say that I didn’t have a price, but right now we’re really excited with the direc- tion we’re moving,” Chris says. “We’ve invested so much of ourselves into this product that it would difficult to share control of its vision with anyone

21 July 2012 / VOLUME 24, NUMBER 2 Centennial news

The Countdown Continues by Phillip Jarvis

he 51 young men and women that make up this over the capsule to Mr. Robertson, who then secured it with a year’s grade 8 class also hold the unique distinction of sturdy padlock. But before the capsule was locked, the Headmaster being the inaugural members of Shawnigan’s 2016 Cen- offered some context to the class about both the Centennial and tennial Graduating Class. With this fact in mind, the the special box being used to store their memories. students—under the guidance of Ms. Newns, Mrs. Grass the use of Rev. Horace McClelland’s battered army box from Tand Mr. Fraser—assembled a time capsule filled with objects and his base at Chelsea Barracks in London as the time capsule is most writings reflecting who they are today. The capsule is now securely appropriate. Horace was a Shawnigan fixture for more than two stored within the Chapel, where it will remain until 2016, when decades, and had served at various times as Chaplain and Head- they will have become leaders on campus. master during his stellar career. Furthermore, the Chelsea Barracks Just before the final examination period began in June, the are located just a short distance from the Westminster School in grade 8’s gathered on the front steps of the Chapel and handed London, C.W. Lonsdale’s alma mater and the very school the Founder sought to emulate in a rain forest on Van- couver Island nearly a century ago. Horace would be Prayer for the Centennial Service: 2016 delighted to see his foot locker, which followed him around the world from London to Cyprus to Hong We pray that our class has achieved numerous goals and successes. We give Kong, and ultimately to Shawnigan, being used by thanks for all the students whether or not they have been here for two years such enthusiastic young students in a worthwhile venture to honour the School’s anniversary. or five. We give thanks to our teachers, House Directors, and many other In addition to personal reflections and photo- staff members for helping us on our journey to be the students we are today. graphs, the grade 8’s also placed in the capsule We pray for our graduating class and that their future is great. We thank some artifacts that represent the Shawnigan of 2012. the kitchen and laundry staff for taking care of us and providing us with As part of their assignment, each student wrote a prayer that could be read at the Centennial Chapel our essentials. We thank Reverend Holland for putting so much time and Service in 2016. Many fine pieces were written, with effort in Chapel. We thank the staff in the Admissions Office for picking the the prayer chosen composed by Melina J. perfect students to join our wonderful school. We also thank Mr. Samuel Congratulations to the Centennial Graduating and Mr. Robertson for giving us the discipline that we need. We pray for all Class for their hard work in helping the School prepare for 2016, and for whetting our collective of the students and that their journey at Shawnigan is as great as ours. We appetites for the events and developments that will now take a moment to reflect on our needs and the needs of others – evolve over the next four years!

Amen.

22 Shawnigan Lake School / The Report Card Alumni News

I say, weather perfect, no rain, clouds, German to Portland high school students by Phillip Jarvis Alumni News mosquitos, humidity or snow. I’m headed and lives with his wife and multiple cats to Colorado for some trout fishing using in the little historic village of Oysterville a Tenaka Japanese 12 foot rod with no (pop. 13) on the Long Beach Peninsula in 1948 reel—a very ancient method of fishing. SW Washington State. For several years Peter Relton (Ripley’s) “At the tender age I don’t know what’s next, but it will be now he and his wife have been exchang- of 81, I am pretty fit, having survived a something I haven’t tried yet. Maybe ing visits with SLS classmate Shane Ry- double fracture of my right wrist and a back to Uganda and climb Mt. Kenya land and his wife Chris. bunch of stitches in my head. The moral before I try Kilimanjaro next year. I think of the deal is to keep your right arm OK I’d better do it before I turn 80 in 2015. 1959 and just wreck the other one! And then Peace to all. Go Shawnigan!” Bruce Pinkerton (Groves’) “I’m 70 and a top masseuse is de rigeur with looks still working, writing some poetry, riding of infinitely lesser importance than her 1955 my Harley, enjoying my Porsche Speed- expertise. Stephen Knight (Groves’) “All goes well ster and spending time with my daughter And yes, I still work representing a here. I am retired but always looking for and granddaughter. Toronto has been bunch of American companies in the things to do. I met with John and Sidney railroad and mining industries. The work Madden in Boston last week. John was can be challenging and is always interest- Best Man at our wedding, and is our son’s ing, which keeps the grey cells in good Godfather.” shape. I hope to attend the Centenary of the School and meet up with as many of Peter McBean (Groves’) “Still living in the old buddies as possible. Toronto. I survived my 75th birthday right now, I am in Asheville N.C. vis- in April with some old age problems all iting my younger daughter and 3 of the thanks to the combination of my wonder- ‘g’ kids,’ revelling in the green silence and ful wife, Gail and science. Our daughter God’s own kingdom of beautiful country- Marnie just had a well-attended book side. And from there I go to the UK and, launch for her book, The Power of More, with an old friend we will treat the Czech and will be with CTV at the London very hot and muggy this spring—no Republic to our presence for a week. Then complaints though! I spent a couple of back to the US and Peru.” weeks at my sister’s home in the Turks this spring, and also at our place in 1949 Anguilla. This summer will be spending John Burr (Lake’s) “My thoughts are time at our cottage north of Toronto. simple. I so much enjoy contact with Nice log home on a beautiful lake. Other several of the “Old Boys” from my years than that, it’s the same old thing, all at Shawnigan (1944-1950). And I deeply about enjoying life to its fullest. If I wake miss all of my Alumni Friends who have up in the morning and I’m still breath- passed away. May God bless them. ing, it’s a good thing!” my wife Katharine and I are so happy to have contributed monies to our old 1963 School, Shawnigan, and most happy to Tom Coldicutt (Ripley’s) In February have helped with the coming of “Alumni Olympics with Brian Williams. Check 2012, Tom and his wife, Elizabeth, met Garden”. I also feel lucky to be a part www.marniemcbean.ca for all sorts of Queen Elizabeth II at London’s Guildhall of all those who are behind and assisted neat Olympic info. Our son John and during bicentennial celebrations of the with the forthcoming presentation of family are doing well in Vancouver.” birth of Charles Dickens. In the picture the statue of our School’s Founder, C.W. Tom is shown using all the social graces Lonsdale, in conjunction with the cel- 1957 he learned at Shawnigan! ebration of our School’s Centennial. The Peter Janke Headmaster, Mr. Robertson, and all the (Lake’s) just at- Staff are also very much honoured to be tended the 50th present at the time of the Centennial. Reunion cel- They continue to follow all the traditions ebrations for his from the earliest of days. All Alumni have class of 1962 at been blessed, as will be all future students Portland’s Reed at our School.” College. He retired with the old 1952 millennium from Tom Osvold (Ripley’s) “Not much new a career teach- going on here in San Diego. What can ing French and

23 July 2012 / VOLUME 24, NUMBER 2 Alumni News continued

1965 Alpha Phi Omega National Service Frater- that the most interesting thing that has Tom Andrews (Ripley’s) “I will turn 65 nity. He earned the rank of Queen Scout happened in the last year was the trip to in July and qualify for Medicare. I guess as a member of the 2nd Shawnigan Lake St. Andrews, Scotland and playing the that’s a big deal here, but not up at troop while attending Shawnigan. More “Old Course,” something on any golfer’s Shawnigan! I also expect to celebrate the recently Bill donated one of his 1960’s-era bucket list. Another highlight, of course, birth of our third grandchild, but again Canadian scout uniforms to the School’s was becoming a grandfather with the not until July. Not retiring yet—happily museum. birth of Alex to son Chris and daughter- married and employed.” in-law Ronni and both of them becoming 1967 fixtures up at Shawnigan now. Another 1966 Debbie (McDonald) Bailey “Sorry I have grandchild is due this July from son Evan Rob Creighton (Copeman’s) “I’m still liv- nothing of significance to report, other than and his wife Jenn, both in New York. ing in Menlo Park CA, having very recent- the “day in-day out” rigours of keeping alive Retirement is around the corner, but for ly decided to cancel my plans to relocate and well while starting the 6th decade of now I’m still working in Victoria between to Seattle. I’ve cut back my consulting life! I’m sure the older Strathies are in the golf games and travelling with my wife, practice and am phasing into some things same way, (maybe throw in a grandchild Wendy.” that I actually enjoy, including volunteer or two)—hopefully the younger ones have tennis coaching. I’m spending much too more excitement to share?” 1969 much time at my tennis club, playing in Murray Dawson (Groves’) “Sharon and USTA leagues at a pretty high level for a Robert Cairns (Lake’s) reports that he has I recently moved from Northern BC to 64 year old with two new hips that I got been retired for three years from a var- Quadra Island. We set up a bed and break- two years ago. One of the benefits is that ied career in education; he retired from a fast in a cottage on seven acres near the I get to be team captain for our 4.0 mixed position as Head of Guidance at a school beach. Our website is www.chestnutcot- doubles team this summer. Maybe that’s located inside a youth prison in Cobourg, tageonquadra.com. I am still studying and why I’m sticking around down here! My Ontario. At present he is keeping busy do- painting—regards to the entire Shawnigan son Andy and daughter Tori are both in ing renovations, looking after the house, Lake family.” their early 20’s, and my step-daughter and visiting his children, two in Ottawa Amy has recently moved back to the Bay and one soon to be in Peterborough. He is 1970 Area with her also working with a local citizen’s group to Chris Owen (Ripley’s) “Just finished husband and regain public access to local beaches. second year law school, and obviously two young entering third year. I’m doing summer children. I’m Ian Mellor (Ripley’s) “From February 12- school and study abroad in China to pick definitely 20, 2012 I cycled part of Cuba for the sec- up seven units over the summer so next looking for- ond time, enjoying this magnificent island year I can carry a reduced load in antici- ward to my with its delightful people. Peter Ladner ‘66 pation of the prepping for the bar. I am SLS Class of joined us for the week’s adventure, as 8 cy- looking forward to writing it in Nevada ’66’s 50th Re- clists cycled to Havana from the Varadero and beginning my new career in Nevada union, which in 2013. Anybody coming down this way will also be please let me know and we’ll see if we can Shawnigan’s get together.” 100th. Here’s a picture of me with my best friend, Emma.”

Tom Davis (Ripley’s) “Not much has changed—married, one son, still making fishing tackle, travelling when time Airport and stay in Casa Partculares (B&B) permits and trying the reduce my golf throughout Cuba. The beauty of Cuba handicap!” cycling is the perfect combination of good roads with courteous drivers, good weath- Bill Wells (Lake’s) is er, excellent value, enthusiastic people— now retired from the and a direct flight from Vancouver!” United States Navy and the University 1968 of California. Bill Bill Brown (Ripley’s) “I don’t think that I is still active as have ever sent the School anything about 1971 an adult leader in myself since graduating in 1968! A lot of Rob Bourne (Copeman’s) “I have just Scouting and the water under the bridge, but suffice to say completed my first year of retirement

24 Shawnigan Lake School / The Report Card Alumni News continued after 32 years of teaching. I am loving the and Garrett (20) is playing Junior Hockey. Guy Robertson (Groves’) is currently doors of new opportunities that this has I am still working but try to spend most teaching at UBC, Langara College and the opened! The highlight of this new life- of the summer on our boat cruising from Justice Institute of BC. He develops and style was a trip to South East Asia with my the San Juan Islands up through Desola- teaches courses in IT security and emer- family. It started with my daughter Jen- tion Sound. gency management, and is working on his nifer in Nepal, with a 14 day trek above I have posted 2 songs that I wrote second book, which concerns emergency Everest Base Camp on Kalapatar at 18500 on Youtube. If you like you can search: planning. Recently, Guy has lectured in “Mark Woodside – The First Time,” and the UK and the US. “Mark Woodside – Tears in the Rain,” and you should find them. They are both slow 1973 sappy songs, so try not to fall asleep in Lawrence Thiessen (Copeman’s) “My wife your soup! I do the vocals and guitars as of 30-plus years and I sold our global mining well. supply business in 2007 and now spend our I think that is about all I can add. The time in Uganda and Kenya doing volunteer picture attached was taken in November work with Childcare Worldwide, based in 2011 when we were enjoying ourselves in Bellingham and Surrey. We have built medi- Sonoma/Napa Valley.” cal clinics, classrooms, dormitories over the past years—great fun! When we are not do- 1972 ing charity work, we live part of each year in Bruce MacIver (Groves’) was recently pro- Tuscany, Italy. The rest of the year we enjoy moted to full Professor in the Department our 3 grandchildren, golf and ski. The photo of Anaesthesia at the Stanford University is Sandi and me with 3 of our 6 sponsor chil- feet. It was a retirement present from fam- School of Medicine. Bruce is the head of dren in Uganda.” ily, friends and colleagues. My wife Anne the Neuropharmacology Laboratory that Marie joined us in Chitwan National studies drug effects on the central nervous game reserve for a three day safari on system. He was honoured this year as a foot, dugout canoe, and by elephant, very “Top 5% Re- cool! We then met my son in Bangkok viewer” for the where we travelled to Cambodia to see international Angkor Wat and then on to the beaches Faculty of 1000. of Southern Thailand. Our trip finished Bruce came to in the Perhentian Islands off the east Stanford after coast of Malaysia, snorkelling with sharks, completing many fish and the best corals I have seen graduate train- 1974 anywhere. ing at the Uni- Cornel Kwan (Lake’s) “I was in Vancouver this fall we will return to Baja, in our versity of Cal- last month attending my daughter Char- newly-renovated motorhome to winter in gary following maine’s graduation ceremony at UBC. After La Ventana. This is a windsurfing and Kite his education at that, I made a trip back to Shawnigan, where boarding destination that also has mucho Shawnigan. I haven’t been for more than 10-15 years. frio cerveza y tequila. Cheers classmates, What an amazing job they have done! I met keep in touch!” Hamish McIntosh (Groves’) “I just cel- Steve Housser ebrated my 57th birthday by telemark there—he was Mark Woodside (Copeman’s) “My fam- skiing laps on the Couloir Extreme at kind enough ily and I are living in Crescent Beach Blackcomb with some younger friends. to show me and loving it. My wife Gail and I have It’s the steepest run at Whistler, and rec- around. I had been married for 28 years. We have 2 ognized as one of the steepest in-bounds a wonderful boys—Dylan (21) is going to University runs in North America. I think I still have time. I am and working toward a Business degree, some miles in my tank!” now back in Hong Kong after having been Europe for three weeks with my family.”

1975 John Sinclair (Ripley’s) “We live in Dubai (again), having returned here three years ago. We left Canada in 2003 after setting

25 July 2012 / VOLUME 24, NUMBER 2 Alumni News continued up an Airline in Vancouver with B757’s, one of the first in some Canadian Fish (owned by Jimmy Pattison). I think he owns the years. I was the VP of Flight Operations for two years at Har- whole salmon industry on the BC coast and Alaska. Plus she’s mony, and was part of a team that set up the flight operations putting up with me—her biggest job, and most rewarding I as- department from zero to worldwide operations. Having seen sume!” that go was a great moment for us, but the industry changed and we headed overseas and flew for Gulf Air as a Captain on Susan Swann (Strathcona-John) “Sorry—I live a dull and boring the B767, (2 years) Singapore Airlines on the 747-400 (3 years) life! Reunion plans are well in hand—looks like we will have Then to Saudi Arabia to fly a private 747-400 for Prince Waleed 20-25 former students and staff members in attendance. We are bin Talal (Kingdom Holdings) as a contract pilot for a year. going to have to hold another one though—lots of people dis- We took 6 months off of the grind to renovate our Vancouver appointed to miss this one, for one reason or another. We will home and then it was back to the UAE to fly for the Abu Dhabi need to look at varying the time of year, I think—or just show Royal family and government as a Captain on the B747-400 up for Old Boy’s Weekend! Roll on summer!” fleet and we have been here for almost three years with no plans to move until it’s time to retire! My wife Kristine, along 1978 with our daughter Sara are here in Dubai, and son Alexander Jim Andersen (Lonsdale’s) “I moved to Oklahoma City 4 years is living in Vancouver, and is busy with hockey, work, flight ago to build a junior rowing program at one of the best new school and he visits here a couple of times a year, and we get rowing sites in the USA. We now have over 150 kids rowing and home about the same amount!” they are getting faster. Take a look at what this city has built at www.riversportokc.org. In the next two years they will build a white water kayak course and invest $60 million into the site. Fantastic!”

David Cran (Lake’s) has just moved back to Vancouver from Se- attle. He recently celebrated his 30th wedding anniversary, and he and son Riley have founded a new international graphic design studio. Their design work can be seen at www.davidcran.com and www.rileycran.com.

Philip Dutton (Copeman’s) “I am changing position from Head of Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry to the Associate Dean of Science at the University of Windsor. Our oldest daughter is getting married in June, and the two younger boys are doing well in school, orchestra and karate. Lots of travelling this summer, solo cross Canada and a US road trip in August, so if you want a visitor, contact me; I may be in your 1976 area.” Cam Ritchie (Copeman’s) “I retired from the RCMP in October 2011 at the Rank of Sergeant with 32 years of service. I was Calvin Offereins (Ripley’s) “On the work front, I have started mainly stationed in Alberta and did a tour of duty in the Arctic assisting my parents in their succession plans. I am getting early in my career. I completed a B.Admin at Athabasca Univer- more engaged in their Real Estate holdings in Fort McMurray sity during my time in the RCMP. My wife of 27 years, Angie, is and will be the Property Manager for their holdings effective a Financial Planner with Servus Credit Union. My daughter Lau- July 1, 2012. Anyone needing accommodations in Oilsands ren recently had a baby girl named Arabella and lives at a farm/ country please give Aurelia Developments Ltd. a call at 780- ranch in the area with her husband. My son Brandon graduated 743-3417. from Grande Prairie Community College with a Heavy Equip- on the family front, my sons have made us proud in their ment Technician Diploma and is entering the trade. We plan to athletic pursuits. Trent our oldest, had the privilege to experi- stay in Grande Prairie, Alberta for a few more years, till we can ence the National Championships for CCAA in basketball. His find Fermanagh!” team, the Mount Royal Cougars from Calgary, won the Alberta Championships and made it to the Finals at Nationals and 1977 achieved a Silver medal. He finished his 5th year of eligibility Barry McDonald (Copeman’s) “I haven’t been doing too much. and will now have time to focus on his Bachelor of Nursing pro- I’m still inspecting grain for the government in Prince Rupert, gram. Jarrod, our youngest was blessed to be on a very special and will be going to St. Paul’s for my 7th heart surgery this sum- volleyball team, the Trinity Western University Spartans. After mer. I keep bugging them for a new one, but they told me they winning CIS Nationals last year they achieved a 19-1 regular don’t make the Valiant slant 6 to fit in my chest (Copeman’s season record for 2011-12. They then won Canada West and joke!). One son is in university, completing his first year at VIU. were victorious at Nationals with a gold medal. He was hon- My daughter is going into grade 11 and doing well. The other oured with Libero of the Year for CIS along with major achieve- son, at age 30, is still bartending in Vancouver and having fun. ments of his coach and 2 other players. He is taking Communi- My wife is still (25 years-plus) managing Quality Control for cations and will be entering his final year of the program.

26 Shawnigan Lake School / The Report Card Alumni News continued

I am looking forward to the 35th year reunion of the 1978 Director with Windjammer Landing Beach Resort and Villas. I’m graduating class in 2013. Hopefully, we can track down some also managing our national more classmates for another great get together.” culinary team for a second year, and we are heading to John Salt (Lonsdale’s) “I have been living in Calgary since 1994. Miami in June for the Taste of I am married to Beverly and we have 6 children ranging from 16 the Caribbean Competition. to 29 years of age. I have an insurance brokerage providing many Our eldest daughter is finish- Calgarians with home/auto and commercial insurance. It was ing her journalism program great getting caught up with many SLOBS at the recent annual in Oakville, Ontario and our golf tournament in Vancouver. second daughter, here with us on the island, is in grade 6 and being homeschooled by my wife Caroline. We’re about to celebrate our 23rd wedding anniversary in July. Hope everyone is well and if you every find yourselves in Saint Lucia please stop by and say hi.”

1981 Michael Morrison (Ripley’s) “In the fall of 2011 my family and I made the move from Prince Rupert to South Surrey. I continue be involved in commercial financing, working with Envision Fi- nancial and division of First West Credit Union. I’m based out of our Langley business hub with a trading area that covers most of Robert Stanhope (Lonsdale’s) “I have been employed in the the lower mainland and extends to southern Vancouver Island. Movie Industry for the last 25 years full time. It takes up a lot I’ve been married for 24 years to Heather, our daughter Madision of my time, but I work (21) is in her fourth year of studies at UBCO and son Patrick (19) hard and play hard! I lives at home and works fulltime in construction. My hobbies am still married to my include DIY home renovations and riding my HD motorcycle.” best friend, Lorraine. We reside in Vancouver, 1982 but also have a getaway James Mok (Lake’s) “My son Alec will be attending grade 11 at home up in the Inte- Shawnigan this fall. I’ll be with Alec at the School on September rior, and lately we have 4. Unfortunately, that would mean I’ll miss our 30th anniversary been enjoying summer reunion on Founder’s Day this year. Hopefully, I’ll get to meet up there more than with a few of you living in Victoria and Vancouver this fall.” down here. We do catch the odd Shawnigan 1984 rugby game now and Matthew Allsop (Groves’) “Just moved to Toronto with my again, and I still sport spouse. We married in July 2011 after 3 years together. We both my yellow Shawnigan are involved in real estate, buying and selling homes. We own a Umbrella when I go to bar in the Danforth area of Toronto.” matches.” Rob Karadontis (Groves’) “I have been running my drywall busi- 1979 ness (Orion Drywall) in the Cowichan Valley for the last 11 years Rick Hemsworth (Groves’) In the depth of winter, Rick, wife and have been doing very well. I thought about retiring last year Melanie, two dogs, a cat and a grand piano made their way but after a month off I was bored. So who knows, maybe in a from Mission, British Columbia to Kingsburg, Nova Scotia. few more years I will sell the business and go live on an island There they have set up their online business selling decorative in Greece! During the month off my wife and I decided to open millwork throughout North America and will soon be adding another business in the Valley, Act II Furnishings. It’s a new and furniture and lighting to the mix. Rick says that one of the used Furnishings store which can be found on the web at www. biggest things he will miss about his home province of BC is actiifurnishings.ca, so students should come by and pick up the camaraderie he has shared in recent years with Shawnigan some items for their dorm rooms. Alumni. my wife and I like to travel at least twice a year. We go to the Dominican Republic every winter for a few weeks and to Europe Bill Munn (Groves’) “I am still living in Saint Lucia, West Indies, for a month in the summer. When we aren’t traveling we are in Caribbean—over 6 years now. I am happily working as Culinary Glenora on our estate with our three dogs Buddy, Basil and Reba

27 July 2012 / VOLUME 24, NUMBER 2 Alumni News continued oh yes can’t forget the cats Dammit and Daisy. What’s the old it back up to Shawnigan to a reunion one of these years, and I’d saying? “Work hard and play twice as hard.” love to keep in touch with some of you via Facebook.”

Andrew Wooldridge (Groves’) was presented with a Queen Eliza- beth II Diamond Jubilee Medal at Government House in Victoria on March 30th. As owner of Orca Books in Victoria, Andrew was recognized for his partcipation in the Lieutenant Governor’s Literacy Program that delivers reading materials to remote com- munities in British Columbia.

1990 Hamish Nixon (Copeman’s) married Amanda Sim on Sep- tember 10, 2011 in Courtenay, 1985 with Alistair Nixon ’91 as his Shawn Wright (Lake’s) “My wife, Janis, and I celebrated our best man and Bryan Barr ’90 20th anniversary touring Greece and Italy recently—definitely also in attendance. Hamish a trip of a lifetime! At- has been living in Thailand tached is a photo of us since 2011, and is currently at the Acropolis. Both working on development of us work at Shawni- projects in the Philippines gan in the IT Depart- and Myanmar. ment. Our daughter Josie attends and is 1991 just finishing grade 9, Craig Charnock (Lake’s) is still happily married to his lovely wife, while our son, Connor Erin, and has surgically called his baby making quits after Nolan is in grade 7. In our (8), Arden (5), and Flora (2), spare time, we enjoy pictured at the piano. He is gardening, the out- working as a head-hunter for doors, cooking, and of engineering professionals, a course, good food and job that is lively and interest- fine wines!” ing, and continues to satisfy his curiosity of how things are 1987 made, both big and small. Drop Steve van Halst (Lonsdale’s), his wife Judy, and 8-year old him a line if you find yourself daughter Ashley are having a great time living in Vancouver. in Toronto sometime. Judy, an interior designer, has almost completed the renova- tion of a 100 year old home in Kitsilano (she has managed to 1993 get everyone involved, including Ashley who did some tile Nicholas Shepard (Ripley’s) and wife Kari welcomed their third mosaics in a bathroom). Steve is Aon’s BC Regional Direc- child, Sawyer Edward, on May 15. Healthy baby boy and mom tor for Risk and Insurance, and also National Director of Risk are doing great. Control Engineering, which allows him to apply background as an engineer and MBA. They are hoping to see a great turn- 1995 out at the class’ 25th reunion this year! Andrew MacKay (Lonsdale’s) “I am married to Jasmine and we have an awesome 10 year old son in addition to my 2 amazing step 1989 daughters. We moved to West Kelowna 2 years ago when I accepted Emma (Borgerson) Ocampo (School) “We are now going on a gas fitting position with Fortis. It was an easy move since we were 12 years in Houston, Texas. I am working as a Senior Director leaving Fort St. John! We are loving life in The Okanagan.” of Global Accounts at HelmsBriscoe. I travel the world with work and enjoy raising our 3 lovely girls. We go back to the Ollie McMillan (Lake’s) “I’m still loving life in Seattle and can’t Island every summer for the month of August. I hope to make believe I’ve been here for 12 years. I am approaching my fifth

28 Shawnigan Lake School / The Report Card Alumni News continued year at Microsoft and am Nicole Spencer (Groves’) “In the last couple of years, I moved enjoying the challenge back to Vancouver from Haida Gwaii, got married, went travel- of working in Online ling in Indonesia and started a new job as a provincial Nutrition Advertising. Two years Educator with the BC Dairy Association. ago I became an Advance James and I felt very lucky to have so many wonderful Associate (volunteer) for friends and family at our nuptials on Salt Spring Island, includ- the White House and ing several Shawnigan Lake alumni! Highlights included entering I’ve traveled all over the the ceremony by boat, camping onsite, and playing an Ultimate country working on event Frisbee game on the Sunday after the wedding. Add to that a logistics for the President great dance party and delectable local food and we couldn’t have of the United States, as asked for a better celebration. well as the First Lady. I for our honeymoon, we escaped for a month of sunshine am really excited that in this past November. Indonesia has world class diving, snorkel- September I will be tak- ling, surfing, and volcano-hiking, as well as incredible food and ing a two month leave of original art. It was truly an amazing experience and we definitely absence from Microsoft to recommend it to anyone looking for a travelling trip. go on the road to work on Work-wise, if any of you are teachers or health professionals, the campaign for re-elec- please get in touch with me. We have some amazing and innova- tion. I can’t wait for the adventure I am in for.” tive nutrition education resources that I would love to share. I wish I had known about more of them myself before I started in 1996 this job. My new workplace is a wonderfully supportive environ- Ryan Dicken (Copeman’s) “I am married to Donna with 3 girls, ment and I feel so lucky that a position opened up.” Maddison (15), Emma (9) and Chloe (6). Currently I am working at Greatwest Kenworth in Calgary as the service manager. We Austin (Zac) Spry (Lonsdale’s) was ordained as a Deacon in the are all well and loving life. Looking forward to the summer for Anglican Church of Canada in the Shawnigan Lake School Cha- camping and hiking” pel on Sunday, May 6th. Former School Chaplains Eric Detchon and Gordon Payne were among the participants in the ceremo- Alejandro Usabiaga (Lake’s) “I have been married for 9 years ny, which was attended by family and close friends. to Leticia, a Spanish girl I met in France while doing my MBA. I majored in Business and received my MBA in France and Eng- land. I now manage a GM dealership in Mexico, a family business which has been growing in everything that has to do with cars. I have 3 awesome kids, Alejandro (6), Pablo (4) and Lu- cia (11 months). Think of me as your friend in Mexico!” 1999 Kate (Hamilton) Snihur (Kaye’s) “Eva Katherine Snihur was born 1997 on March 24, 2012, weighing 8lb 13oz. Mum, Dad and big sister Jane (MacAulay) Holland (School) “Daniella Pearl Holland was Anna were all excited to welcome her home. Everyone is doing born June 4. After a decade of travelling we are happily settling very well and we are settled into our new home in Edmonton.” into the beautiful Comox Valley and enjoying island life with our new family!” 2000 Molly Kean (School) “I moved to Stockholm, Sweden three and a half years ago. I spent the last few years teaching at an Inter- national English School, and am now finishing my Masters in Social Anthropology.”

2001 Alex Chang (Lake’s) “Since my BSc graduation from UBC, I have managed to remain in Vancouver and enrol in a PhD program. During my studies, I met my wife Shirley over the summer holi- days, got married in 2009, and published my first scientific paper

29 July 2012 / VOLUME 24, NUMBER 2 Alumni News continued in Developmental appointed to referee at National Championship Festivals, the Cell in 2011. More Rugby Canada Super League, IRB North America 4 and NACRA recently, Shirley 7 Sevens. This summer I am going to Brive, France for the World and I welcomed our University 7’s, and I have been appointed to be an assistant daughter Emma referee for the CRC Championships, IRB Sevens, and Churchill Chang who was Cup in Denver.” born on April 24, 2012 and the three 2003 of us attended my Andrea Chambers (Groves’) “I graduated from the Canadian PhD graduation College of Massage & Hydrotherapy in 2008 and worked as a ceremony at UBC. massage therapist in a multidisciplinary clinic for three years. I Our little fam- am now subcontracted at two amazing spas and loving my work. ily will be moving I am also getting married this summer to a great man that I have to sunny San Francisco this summer as I will be undertaking a been with for almost nine years. I am very excited and enjoying postdoctoral position at Stanford University starting September the planning process!” 1st this year.” 2004 Megan Phillips (Kaye’s) is leaving for New York City to work- Jodi Bloomer (Renfrew) shop and rehearse her one-woman solo musical, Breaking “Life is awesome! Last Velocity, performing at the Toronto and Vancouver Fringe year I was running pro- Festivals this summer! It is the semi-autobiographical story of fessionally in Taiwan and how her life was changed in a moment after being hit by a car had the opportunity to while attending train in Hong Kong, Chi- theatre school na and Turkey. I met in- in London, UK. credible people, learned a Music for the lot and saw some incred- show is by Jessi ible sights. I finished my Nicholson, Glen International Business degree online in the fall and have recently Hamilton, and moved to London, England to establish myself, my yoga teach- Megan Phillips, ing and explore other business interests. I’m also interning at a and it is directed medical clinic with the intention of pursuing further education by Ernest Johns. in the holistic medicine. It’s rainy a lot, busy, noisy at times and Megan would wonderful. There truly is something for everyone in London; the be thrilled if any Shawnigan grads in Vancouver or Toronto are city is full of lovely surprises. I feel at home and alive!” in town during either festival, and were able to come and say hi after the show! Jeffry Ma (Lake’s) “After 2.5 years in the US working for Micro- soft for the Windows 8 OS, decided that I wanted a change. As 2002 such, I have now moved back to Vancouver, BC working for SAP Patty Allard (Ripley’s) “I recently returned to Shawnigan to Canada Inc. as a software developer for the SAP StreamWork present Mr. Robertson with two jerseys from my time as an iPhone mobile application. It’s exciting times over here, and I IRB referee. One jersey was from a Rugby Canada game ap- hope things will go super well in Vancouver. It’s a city that I like pointment featuring the French Barbarians vs. Canada Selects to live in, and it’s the place where I wanted to be.” in Esquimalt, BC in June 2008. The second was from an IRB appointment to the Churchill Cup in Denver in 2009. I was 2005 also appointed to AR at the USA Sevens in San Diego in 2009 Nathan Pocock (Lonsdale’s) and 2010. “After graduating from I started referee- Shawnigan I went to UVic, ing fulltime in 2003, got bored of sitting around a couple months after studying and went into graduating from SLS. carpentry. I took my trade I refereed locally until to England where I reno- I went on exchange vated a farm house well over to New Zealand in 500 years old, traveled and 2006. It was after that caught up with family. While I was put on the Rugby there, I met my now-wife, we Canada focus group moved back to Canada and I and the following continued to work carpentry year to the national doing my own jobs and sub- panel. I have been contracting out to companies

30 Shawnigan Lake School / The Report Card Alumni News continued with big projects nearby, like the new West Coast Tire on 2009 Sooke Road. Adrian Grand (Lonsdale’s) “I was accepted at Berklee College of Whilst living on the south island, I volunteered at the East Music as a guitarist and started the program during the summer Sooke Volunteer Fire Department where I learned my true life pas- of 2011. I am currently in my 3rd semester and have declared sion. Shortly after being promoted to lieutenant at the ESVFD, I a dual major in Film Scoring and Composition with a minor in was hired on with Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services where I now Acoustics. It will take me about 9 more semesters to graduate. work. I am one of the fortunate few who can say my job is truly also I am enjoying my studies and the Boston experience. I hope to my hobby and there isn’t a day that goes by where I am not excited visit Shawnigan soon.” to go to work. my wife has recently got her immigration papers now as well Carina Lui (Kaye’s) “Graham and I got engaged last summer and and soon will be off to nursing school all is looking well.” are tying the knot this July in Vancouver.”

2006 Matt Evans (Ripley’s) “After the World Cup, I started with the Cornish Pirates in the UK, and signed a new 2 year deal in May. I have three games for Canada coming up in June with the last being in Vancouver so it will nice to play back in BC again. That’s about it!”

Noelle Marcus (Kaye’s) “This August will mark my sixth year studying and living in New York City. In July, I am excited to start a Project Manage- ment Program at the New York City Economic Development Corporation Ben Sheftel (Duxbury) “I graduated UBC with a Bachelor’s where I will work to promote the eco- Degree in Computer Science. I’m now working at a Video nomic growth and prosperity of New Game Studio in Vancouver called Koolhaus Games.” York City. I have two months off this summer which I am using to volun- 2010 teer and travel India.” Arden Gill (Renfrew North) “Currently I am in my second year at Mercyhurst University, located in Erie, PA. I am a Business Market- Vanessa Nqumayo (Renfrew) ing Major and am on the varsity crew team that has been working “Unfortunately, I haven’t been in hard all year to earn a Division II NCAA championship this May.” touch with Shaw in a very long time. I graduated in 2006, studied 2011 Humanities and Business at the Shannon Kelly (Groves’) “Currently I am living in Montreal, University of Calgary for 3 years going to McGill and recently leased my first apartment, right then moved to Debrecen, Hungary across from the McGill gym! It’s perfect, as I am planning on (Eastern Europe) in September of playing varsity rugby next year, and so will be spending plenty 2009 to study General Medicine. of time there. Although Montreal is a wonderful city, there truly I plan on receiving my MD in is no place more beautiful than the west coast, and the phrase 2016.” “West coast, best coast” has much more significance after having lived on the other side of the country for the past 7 months. 2007 My courses are very challenging, and with the sudden increase Austin Fisher (Lake’s) “It’s been a long time coming, but I in free, un-scheduled time, managing them has definitely been a have finally graduated from College. After the years of stress challenge without Shawnigan’s strict schedule.” and other difficulties produced from my suffering a Traumatic Brain Injury in a life-altering car accident (November 2008), I am now an official graduate of Gonzaga University in Applied Communications with a minor in General Business. I have Passages been participating as an intern with the Traumatic Brain Injury Network by advocating for my fellow TBI survivors, which is Theodore H. (Ted) Covernton ’41 (Ripley’s) passed away peace- expanding to a worldwide group now. I traveled to Zambezi, fully, surrounded by family on February 6, 2012 at Richmond Zambia in the summer of 2011 and helped teach children and Hospital at the age of 87. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, helped the community in various ways. I am currently finish- Lois and their two children, Brian (Linda) and Cathy (Paolo) and ing my last semester at Gonzaga and will be joining the real two grandchildren, Courtney and Patrick. He was a long-time world pursuit soon. Thanks to Shawnigan, I have made it to employee of Worksafe B.C. and served in the Canadian Navy where I am today.” from 1942-1945. Ted enjoyed parties, travel, the casino and spending time with family at Roberts Creek.

31 July 2012 / VOLUME 24, NUMBER 2 Shawnigan Events Stag and Shawnigan Award Celebration by Ryan Panton

ore than one hundred called “Shawnigan in the World” that il- alumni, current and for- lustrated the various initiatives in which mer staff gathered to- today’s students are engaged. Recipients gether on campus in the and their guests finished the day on campus middle of June as the with dinner and drinks at the Headmaster’s MSchool celebrated the Fiftieth Anniversary Residence before making their way back of the Stag and Shawnigan Awards. home. established on the 20th of November one of the special features of the Stag 1961 by Edward R. Larsen, Shawnigan’s 3rd and Shawnigan Award Celebration was in Headmaster, the Stag Award’s purpose was the early afternoon when recipients were and is to recognize appreciatively all those invited to take part in a discussion forum who have so contributed to the life and well held in the Wilkinson Studio Theatre. Mod- being of Shawnigan Lake School that it can erated by Steve Housser ’67 and Phil Jarvis, be said Shawnigan is a better place in conse- the forum provided an opportunity for this quence of the contribution they have made. special group to share opinions and insights The Shawnigan Award was established in about the plans for the upcoming Shawni- 1983 as a way of paying tribute to women gan Centennial. The excitement generated in the School community who made similar by the discussion in the room was palpable, contributions. To date, more than 280 men and a tone of positivity about both the and seventy women have been honoured as centenary and the celebration left all in at- recipients. tendance feeling the trip back to Shawnigan Attendees at this very special event was most certainly worthwhile! attended a Chapel service that featured speeches by Matt Arrott ’77 and Amy (Jel- lema) Capern ’96, before being led on tours of campus by School Prefects, cheering on their old houses at the Inter-House Track and Field event, and exploring a display

The Advancement Office wishes to acknowledge the more than 700 donors who helped the 2011-12 Annual Fund surpass $1,000,000 for the third consecutive year. Thank you!

The Report Card is brought to you by the Advancement Office: Ryan Panton ’97, Managing Editor & Director of the Annual Fund / Steve Housser ’67, Executive Director, Shawnigan Lake School Foundation / Roland Borsato ’72, Director of Alumni Relations / Phillip Jarvis, Director of the Shawnigan Centennial / Kelly Koepp, Marketing & Communications Noralie Hooper, Administrative Assistant / Rebecca Page, Data Manager / Lynn Rolston, School Archivist School photography in this issue is by Stephen Lane. Additional photo credits to Nik West, Jennifer Seelye, Jay Cornell, and Wendy Woollven

Shawnigan32 LakeShawnigan School Lake– www.shawnigan.ca, School / The Report [email protected]