TheAndreanSpring 2017, VOLUME 61 NUMBER 1
The Spirit of Giving Back Student philanthropy and the complete man Contents
Features TheAndrean Spring 2017 4 Schooled in Giving Volume 61 Student philanthropy is alive and well at SAC Number 1 Published by 14 J.A.D. McCurdy Commemorated St. Andrew’s College for Old Boys, parents, and Grandson shares memories of Canada’s first aviator friends of the School Editor 16 A New Path to a Bright Future Cindy Veitch St. Andrew’s launches a new Strategic Plan Assistant Editor Nicolette Fleming 18 Old Boy Lunch and Learns SENIOR WRITER New peer-to-peer networking seminars Jim McGillivray Old Boy Correspondent 19 The Tragedy that Brought Me to St. Andrew’s Nicholas Weedon ‘02 Editorial Committee Schoolmates became an extension of family for Bill Holmes ’56 Edna Collins Scott Hayter 20 Robertson Laidlaw Sue Hayter SAC’s longest-serving teacher had famous connections Contributors Len Gurr Gerald Haddon 22 The Million-Dollar Legacy Sue Hayter The Towers’ estate remains our largest legacy…ever Bill Holmes ’56 David Joiner 23 Heartfelt Gift Connects Families Julie Wilson The Tingling-Diakuns and the Elliotts share a SAC bond Art Direction and Design Fresh Art & Design Inc.
24 Infographic PHOTOGRAPHY SAC by the numbers Paul Mosey Telephone 905.727.3178 ext. 237 Email [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Columns Website www.sac.on.ca 2 View from the Top Front cover: 84 shrubs were planted on the 26 Sports News lower fields by grade 5s in conjunction with Ontario Streams. Arthur Wang (left) and Jared 30 Community News & Retirements Reinemo in foreground, Matthew Virgillio (left) 34 Old Boys News and Michael Wang in background 50 Obituaries 52 Editorial: From the Head of Geography, David Joiner EST. 1899
The Andrean magazine supports the St. Andrew’s College mission to “…develop St. Andrew’s College is a member of these associations: the complete man, the well-rounded citizen,” connects Old Boys and parents to the School, and is a reflection of St. Andrew’s College’s enduring value to the constituents it serves. A few grade 10 art students took the opportunity to paint outside on a surprisingly warm and sunny late-winter day. After visiting the AGO’s Mystical Landscapes exhibition, the students were asked to produce their own Mystical Landscapes, with the SAC campus as their subject. Inspira- tion from master painters such as van Gogh, Harris, and Monet, is evident in their work. (l-r) Jacky Guo, Daniel Park, and Harry Zhao
Letter to the Editor Editor’s Note Mystery Solved! My classmate Jeff Long ’81 was visiting last Thanks to Dr. Sue Hayter, Librarian and The whereabouts of the Christmas edition weekend and we were trying to remember who Archivist, who has made The Review and The of the 1954 Review was a mystery. Now, were house captains in our year. I couldn’t put Andrean available online. As well, the SAC pho- thanks to some serious sleuthing by Old Boys my hands on my yearbook, so we went to the tograph collection is constantly being updated Michael Wood ‘56, Jim Wyse ‘57, and John School’s website. What a pleasant surprise to and many photographs are currently available Swinden ‘56, the mystery has been solved. find our yearbooks so easily accessible and for viewing. To visit the Online Archives, go to There was no Christmas 1954 edition! Instead readable. Fantastic! Thanks for doing that. http://archives.sac.on.ca. of having three editions a year, a decision was George Jackson ’81 Cindy Veitch, Editor made to move to a bi-annual publication. Therefore, the Christmas 1954 edition was delayed to become the Winter 1955 edition. Sue Hayter, Librarian & Archivist
www.sac.on.ca 1 View from the Top
Strategic Plan 2017-2022 Innovative &Interactive
Andrew’s College has launched its new Strategic paper copy of the Strategic Plan for your reference. Plan—and in a first-ever twist—an interactive Our boldest step was the creation of an interactive website St . website to go with it. to complement it. I couldn’t be more thrilled with the outcome, which is Visit the website at sac.on.ca/interactivestratplan17 and founded on innovation, creativity, and forward-thinking, and take a journey through the campus at our proposed improve- took 21 months to complete. Our new Strategic Plan will help ments and changes. Each pin is colour-coded to represent guide the School over the next five years, through to 2022. one of the four pillars. Click on a pin to learn more about I invite you to take a closer look at the ambitious plans each area of focus and the specific tactics that fall within it. we have in place. On page 16 you can read an overview of Each pin also contains a description of the tactic along with its four pillars: Academic Innovation, Wellness, Connected a picture, video, and/or article explaining why we think it is Community, and Positioned for the Future. There is also a important to implement this task.
2 SPRING 2017 Illustration: Steven McDonald ‘88
“… we reminded ourselves that This theme carried into our interactive platform in a sec- tion titled, “This is our why.” Here you can read profiles on our purpose is the education current students and Old Boys from various generations. You will learn why St. Andrew’s is important to them, where their and development of young careers have led them, and/or how St. Andrew’s has helped them to achieve their goals. men—they are our why.” First, watch my introductory video to the School’s Strategic At the start of the strategic-planning process, we asked Plan, and then take some time to learn about all the amazing ourselves the all-important question: what is our purpose? things we have planned for the next five years. I am truly excited From this, we reminded ourselves that our purpose is the about what the future holds, and I think you will be too. education and development of young men—they are our why. KEVIN R. McHENRY, HEADMASTER
www.sac.on.ca 3 Student Philanthropy
Grade 7 classmates stock shelves at the Aurora Food Pantry (l-r) Jason Qian, Henry Paluch, Ethan Yen, Blake Iezzi
4 SPRING 2017 Schooled in Giving Student philanthropy is alive and well at SAC
eeping homeless kids safe on the street and protecting rhinos in South Africa are two of the charitable efforts SAC students championed this year. K “We want to change attitudes and have stu- dents become more empathetic to the world around them,” says Melissa Tackaberry, faculty advisor to the Student Outreach Council (SOC), which is responsible for choosing the two chari- ties SAC will support each year. It seems to be working. Over the 15 years that Melissa has led the Council, she has witnessed an evolution in stu- dent philanthropy that reflects not only what is going on at home but also what is happening globally. This year’s chosen charities are per- fect examples. Protrack, an anti-poaching unit in South Africa, is dedicated to stopping the slaughter of rhinos, elephants, and other wild- life, while 360° kids provides care to children and youth in crisis in our community.
www.sac.on.ca 5 Student Philanthropy “Your situation in life is often happenstance, depending on Throughout the year, Council members host several events the family you were born into or where you live,” Melissa such as casual-dress days, for which students, faculty, and staff reasons. Still, she realizes that everyone has a different level pay $3 for the privilege of dressing down, as well as the always- of ability to give back. “Time or money are both equally worthy,” popular brownie sundae sales. They also organize loose-change says Melissa. “The key is instilling the responsibility to give and clothing drives, a coffee drive-thru outside Rogers Hall, what you can.” and a 30-Hour Famine. This spring, students had the chance to The SOC’s mandate is to lead students in raising money bid for their own personal assistant for the day from a selection for outside charities in an organized and focused manner. Its of faculty up for the challenge. The caveat is that winning bids 15 members help centralize student fundraising to make the be paid in cash only—no charging to accounts—putting the onus greatest impact on their two chosen charities. on the student to come up with the money from his own pocket. Before deciding which charities to support, the Council “Small amounts can and do make a real difference,” leaders evaluate a charity’s cause, legitimacy, and adminis- Melissa says. trative costs thoroughly. Over the years, the group has lent a Having students’ eyes open to the need that exists around hand to a wide variety of non-profits such as World Wildlife them inspired some students to become change-makers Fund, Canadian Hero Fund, Save the Children, and World themselves. Parth Agarwal ’14 founded iParth.org Charity Food Programme. Foundation while in grade 11 to help combat the cycle of child poverty around the world. “I want people to realize that what seems like a small amount of money to us can literally mean the difference of life and death for some people,” he remarked at the time, when asked what had motivated him. With similar altruistic intent, William Deo ’17 started iWillSwim.org in partnership with the York Region Children’s Aid Society (CAS) to help promote safety and swimming among Canadians, particularly those with limited resources and new to the country. This past summer, his organization raised $3,000, enough for swimming lessons, equipment, and trans- portation for 24 children in the community. Some may be surprised to learn that the four boarding residences and the four day residences quietly sponsor one child each year through World Vision Canada. This organization replaced SAC’s Child Fund started by former chaplain, the Rev. Robert Arril, through sponsorship of Dr. Graham’s Homes. SAC’s World Vision sponsorship amounts to $3,750 annually to support eight children. Members of the Outreach Committee play an important supportive role in two charities supported by the wider Andrean community, Holiday Hero and SpringSmash. Through the School’s partnership with the York Region CAS, more than $1.25 million has been raised to help needy families and children over the past decade. This year, the focus shifted to local youth-at- William Deo ‘17 risk. Advisory groups chose one or two youth from started an organization profiles provided by the York Region CAS, purchasing to help children learn to be water safe and wrapping gifts specifically for them. SpringSmash is an annual event held each spring that is led entirely by grade 12 students in the
6 SPRING 2017 Grade 12 classmates joined two York Regional Police officers and teacher Melissa Tackaberry for an evening of Holiday Hero shopping. From l-r, Harrison Liu, Eric Asgari, Trew Morris, William Deo, Randy Lee, Trevor Chao, Mihai Ciuciureanu, and Justun Lynn
others are all part of the larger experiential learning experience. “Inculcating this spirit of giving “Inculcating this spirit of giving back in students is critical back in students is critical to the well-being of our society and helps establish a foundation for them as they become adults and Old Boys, passionate not to the well-being of our only about their school, but also about the world around them,” says Scott Hayter, Executive Director of Advancement. society and helps establish a It’s a spirit that has been well-received by the impression- foundation for them as they able young minds at SAC. become adults and Old Boys, Promoting Need passionate not only about Awareness their school, but also about Middle School program fills need, the world around them.” develops character
McEwen Leadership program. The School participates in a half-day of organized sport and festival activities to raise omething extraordinary has been taking place in awareness and support for underprivileged kids and provide the Middle School, and it’s sending ripples out into them the opportunity to participate in sport. Last year the community. $31,555 was raised for the charity Jumpstart—the highest Introduced two years ago, the Middle School Com- amount of any school in Canada! Smunity Giving Project sends students in grades 5 to 8 out into All of which points to the fact that the spirt of philanthropy the community to make an impact, acquire new skills, achieve is alive and well at St. Andrew’s. Providing students with the personal growth, and learn about the world around them. opportunity to help others, deciding where to invest time and The other important piece of the Community Giving Project effort, and potentially raising funds to help make life better for is that it affords our boys an opportunity to practice the
www.sac.on.ca 7 Student Philanthropy Connor Luciani, grade 8, joined in the Mardi Gras fun at Mackenzie Place, serving punch, decorating cupcakes, and making masks with the seniors, including Elsie Osmond, who turns 85 in November
of ways, doing everything from stocking shelves at food banks and making snacks at shelters to cleaning parks and playing bingo with seniors. Unaware of other schools doing anything like this, program coordinator Randi Berman says, “we’ve been learning as we go.” It took a lot of “door-knocking” to get the program up and running once it received the green light from leadership. In “Instilling kindness, respect, the summer of 2015, she spent hours reaching out to organiza- tions that might be willing and interested in taking on the and empathy has become part boys. The program launched that fall with 10 organizations and has grown to 20 this year. Reassuringly, the original 10 organi- of our culture and is a priority zations all recommitted. Each grade has its own theme and focus, which helps ease in fulfilling the School’s mission the coordination and logistics of the 176 student participants and 20 staff who accompany them. The grade 8s visit senior to develop the complete man— centres, with groups returning to the same home or centre which includes becoming each time to encourage the development of relationships. At the February visit to Mackenzie Place in Newmarket, Melissa empathetic and caring young Ramon’s advisees participated in a Mardi Gras Festival organized by Shannon Campbell, program aide. The boys individuals.” interacted with seniors as they decorated cupcakes, handed out punch, decorated face masks, and competed in a SAC human qualities of empathy and compassion. “As a school, versus Mackenzie Place game quiz. we are continually striving to provide our students with strong “We are so lucky to have the partnership with SAC that we ideals set in character education,” says Sabrina D’Angelo, do,” says Shannon, observing that the residents enjoy the boys’ Director of the Middle School. conversations and liveliness. One of the residents asked a “Instilling kindness, respect, and empathy has become part taller boy if he was a teacher. “No, just a slow learner,” he jok- of our culture and is a priority in fulfilling the School’s mission ingly replied. “They get such a kick out of each other,” laughs to develop the complete man—which includes becoming Shannon. empathetic and caring young individuals,” she says. One partner organization is applying for funds to purchase This unique community-service program is now entrenched iPads and iPods, with the idea of students teaching seniors to in the Middle School curriculum. Six afternoons a year, between upload music, play games, reminisce with family and friends, September and April, students devote their time in a variety and access social media. “It is a perfect fit and an excellent
8 SPRING 2017 way to integrate the generations,” says Sabrina. The grade 7s rotate their visits through six different commu- “The boys see firsthand nity organizations including food banks, DeafBlind Ontario, the effects of giving back and the Wishing Well Sanctuary, which promotes emotional well-being through the interconnectedness of all life— and feel empowered.” including the care of animals, which the boys love. The tasks are planned in advance, so the students and organization mulching trees and park cleanup is on the agenda. Through know what to expect each time. On a visit to the Aurora Food Ontario Stream’s adopt-a-stream program, SAC has taken on Pantry, Randi’s advisees helped to paint a colourful mural. At environmental stewardship for a section of Tannery Creek DeafBlind Ontario, students cleaned windows and took care running through the School’s campus, cleaning away garbage, of other spring-cleaning tasks. They also observed a resident and building and maintaining birdhouses. in his own apartment, amazed that he could move so freely and The effects of the interactions with the community have been find objects with ease despite his disabilities. “interesting and heartwarming,” says Randi. Feedback from The Canadian Centre for Abuse Awareness in Aurora, a both sides has been positive, with “polite and helpful” being facility that helps resettle women facing abuse, “has really the two words heard from organizations about students over helped our boys realize how lucky they are,” says Randi. “You and over again. Both the teachers and the boys say they enjoy can hear a pin drop when a sad situation or dire circumstance these afternoons. is described.” Many times she and the boys have struggled to “The boys see firsthand the effects of giving back and feel fight back tears. “It’s a big eye-opener to many boys.” empowered,” says Randi. It is the program’s goal to instil an Since the grade 5 and 6s are younger, accommodations must enduring sense of engagement, which will at best spill over for sometimes be made. Their visits can be less service-oriented life, or at least carry forward to Upper School when 40 hours and more educational in nature, as is the case with trips to of community service is a Ministry-mandated pre-requisite for Elman Campbell Museum and the Aurora Historical Society. graduation. Sleeves must be rolled up, however, when the boys attend the By Upper School, participants in the Giving Project will Aurora Community Arboretum and the Town of Aurora, where have visited a significant number of organizations and have
Left: Ashton Hunter, grade 7, checks out the fresh produce and bread supply at Aurora Food Pantry. Right: Grade 5 classmates (l-r) Joey Panovski, James Coppola, and Arthur Wang get busy moving mulch at the Aurora Community Arboretum
www.sac.on.ca 9 Student Philanthropy
Middle Schoolers (front, l-r) Claudio Ardellini, Ethan Mitchell, Marcus Jenko; (back) Jason Qian, Kyle Murphy, and Albert Ma Photo: Randi Berman Photo:
10 SPRING 2017 (l-r) Steven Du ‘18, Tony Sul ‘17, Jacob Brayford ‘17, Brandon St. Pierre ‘17, and Dane Muspratt ‘17 are among those students with the most community service hours
my expectations and vision for this program; our boys are “The off-campus hours really developing into model citizens and this program plays a sig- show commitment. These nificant role in this development.” boys are often superstars Altruistic academically as well.” Overachievers a good idea about where they want to go to fulfill their hours. “It really is an extraordinary program that’s continuing to Making time to volunteer is routine grow,” says Randi. The Giving Project has a small operating for some students budget for supplies, busing, and gift certificates. And like all good guests, they never show up empty handed to a food bank, and they take gift cards to help buy supplies. At here are volunteers, and then there are super Christmas each organization is sent a basket of goodies, and volunteers. in April a bouquet of flowers, as a way of saying thank you Jacob Brayford ’17 definitely qualifies as the for allowing our boys into their world and opening their eyes latter. He has amassed 400 off-campus community to the needs that exist in their own backyard. Tservice hours—ten times the number required by the province “The gains that our boys, and our community as a whole, to graduate from high school. make through the Community Giving Project journey are As is the case with many of our Upper School students, truly amazing,” says Sabrina.“It has completely exceeded Jacob does the bulk of his volunteering during the summer
www.sac.on.ca 11 Student Philanthropy Jacob Brayford ‘17 is a regular volunteer at Wishing Well Sanctuary, an organiza- tion that promotes the well-being of all life, including the care of animals
months or at breaks. He has devoted hours to helping at children’s sports camps, shovelling snow and raking leaves for countless seniors in his hometown of Alliston, and used his muscle to set up and tear down booths at a community home show. His favou- rite job, though, is the 40 hours spent at the Wishing Well Sanctuary caring for rescued farm animals. “The off-campus hours really show commitment. These boys are often superstars academically as well,” says Bruce Roffey, who logs and verifies students’ community service hours in Edsby. The expectation, of course, is that the experience of giving back will turn these teens into life-long volunteers. Well over half of SAC students exceed the 40-hour minimum, some by hundreds of hours. The School recog- nizes these Community Service leaders in Upper School with pins and ties once they have achieved 100, 200, 300, and 350-plus hours. “I have been extremely The old adage that it is better to give than to receive may help to explain why many Andreans embrace volunteerism so eagerly. fortunate and had so much “It’s satisfying to know you are doing good work for others,” explains Steven Du, grade 11. He’s come to realize support … I thought it only that “even the smallest acts of giving can have profound effects on the receiver.” right to give back and help “I have been extremely fortunate and had so much support… others.” I thought it only right to give back and help others,” says Brandon St. Pierre ’17, an exemplary volunteer with over 300 community service only to surpass the required number,” admits hours of service, a substantial number of which were earned grade 10 student Arya Mizrahi. “But as I got more hours, I real- in Japan during the summer. He says his volunteer experi- ized that it was kind of fun as well as a good thing to do in my ences helped him to reflect on his life and created awareness spare time.” of the bigger world around him. Wendy Pries is the faculty advisor for the Community Service There are many positives for volunteers, including the Council, which this year has 11 members. Together they help development of leadership skills and the camaraderie students find placements, advertise positions, and arrange developed through a shared experience. “Originally, I did community service outings.
12 SPRING 2017 Left: Jin Woo Yu ‘17 enjoyed helping school children as part of the community service portion of his SASSAW trip to Borneo last summer Right: (l-r) Grade 10s Daniel Park, Willem Grier, and Alexander Smith, as well as Eric Asgari ‘17 (not shown), bond while raising awareness and funds for 360° kids “There is no lack of opportunity,” says Wendy, acknowledging won’t get much in return.” that since our boys are busy, possessing good time manage- Jin Woo Yu ’17 shares a similar mindset. Last summer, he ment is important, especially when committing to short-term went to Guatemala with friends to help build self-sustainable assignments. Surprisingly, finding a steady volunteer job can be water filters. “Providing villagers with clean drinking water not competitive, especially for students wanting to work at a specific only made a big impact, but it was also the most humbling organization. “They need to dig in and make contact as soon as experience I’ve ever had,” he says. Later that summer, he went possible, as there are often waiting lists,” she says. on the School’s SASSAW trip to Borneo and felt just as good Eric Asgari ’17 landed a coveted position at Southlake Hos- about building a much-needed bridge and working with local pital in Newmarket by applying early. He volunteers regularly schoolchildren, even though community service was a require- in the cardiology and diagnostic imaging departments, helping ment for the trip. patients with non-medical needs. It helps him gain better insight Owen Laffey may be only in grade 10, but he has already into the field, one he wants to pursue in a career as a doctor. clocked enough community service hours to put him among the As well, Eric also volunteers with 360° kids, a local non-profit top volunteers at the School. He worked track meets for special that helps at-risk and homeless youth. He feels compelled to needs children and helps teach children to skate. “I like this spread the word about those who struggle with homelessness on because I love hockey and I love helping children, so it’s the a daily basis. As co-chair of the 360° Experience Youth Leaders, perfect match for me,” says Owen, a triple-A hockey player who Eric thinks this issue should be of primary concern in our local made a commitment to fit CS into his busy schedule. community of privileged youth—including those at St. Andrew’s. As is true with many life decisions, being a community “After all, what’s the point of volunteering if you’re not service super achiever is about making a commitment. “It defi- trying to make the world a better place?” he asks. “If you go nitely can get quite hectic,” adds Jin Woo, “but it’s all about in looking to simply get community service (CS) hours, you consistency and resolve.” Cindy Veitch
www.sac.on.ca 13 J.A.D. McCurdy Commemorated Grandson shares memories of Canada’s first aviator
was invited to the Alexander Graham Bell National while staying at my grandparents’ beautiful summer house. Historic Site and Museum in Baddeck, Nova Scotia, to Because of Dr. Bell’s worldwide reputation, many famous speak about my grandfather, J.A.D. McCurdy, Class of scientists and inventors were drawn to this small hamlet of 100 1903, whom I had known for the first 19 years of my life. people, and the young McCurdy met many of them. Having lost I On February 23, 1909 from Baddeck, my grandfather made two sons in infancy, Bell wanted to adopt my grandfather, such the first flight in the British Empire in the Silver Dart, an was the bond that developed between the two. aeroplane he designed and built. There were four children born to Arthur and Lucy McCurdy: McCurdy was one of “Bell’s boys,” a gifted group of engi- Susan, George, J.A.D., and Lucien; all were separated by neers and students of aeronautics, who in approximately two years. Lucy died giving October 1907 had formed the Experiment birth to Lucien. Aunt Georgina, Arthur’s Association and were determined to sister, stepped in and assumed the role of master the art of flying an aeroplane and the children’s mother. Had it not been for get a man into the air. this strong-minded maiden aunt, J.A.D. Born and raised in Baddeck, young would undoubtedly have become the Bell’s McCurdy could be found at Beinn legal son. “J.A.D. McCurdy was born a Bhreagh, Alexander Graham Bell’s McCurdy, and by God, he will die a 37-room home, helping the famous McCurdy,” Aunt Georgina firmly stated. inventor with his glider and kite experi- Bell did become McCurdy’s godfather, ments. McCurdy often played with Elsie however, and in 1893, Dr. and Mrs. Bell A bust of J.A.D. McCurdy was unveiled at and Daisy, Bell’s daughters, with whom Government House, Halifax, in August 2016. took my grandfather, aged seven, to he remained lifelong friends. Amanda and Gerald Haddon, his grandson, Washington, D.C., where he spent a very Navigating Bras d’Or Lake as a young were there happy year as part of their family. boy with his two brothers, McCurdy became aware of the power Later, recognizing my grandfather to be a brilliant student, of the wind and what it could do. From those early days, a Dr. Bell helped sponsor his education to St. Andrew’s College. lifelong curiosity was born, one that would lead him to become He also encouraged him to attend the University of Toronto’s an extraordinary engineer and a pilot with a list of aviation firsts. School of Mechanical Engineering, where McCurdy was the Years later, “Gampy” taught me to sail on this same lake youngest student admitted.
14 SPRING 2017 Left: McCurdy, in stocking cap, at the controls of the Silver Dart minutes before his historic flight, February 23, 1909 in Baddeck, Nova Scotia. Note the tricycle landing gear and the large push-type propellor. With fuel and McCurdy, the Silver Dart weighed 860 pounds. Top right: J.A.D. McCurdy, in his Montreal apartment, holding a model of the Silver Dart made by Frank Ellis in 1959 in celebration of the 50th anniversary of McCurdy’s historic flight. Bottom right: The Silver Dart positioned on the ice with McCurdy at the controls in preparation for making the first flight in the British Empire After the unforgettable experience of speaking at the Bell “… recognizing my grandfather Museum, I travelled to Government House in Halifax for the unveiling of a portrait bust of J.A.D. McCurdy, a magnificent to be a brilliant student, piece commissioned in tribute by the Nova Scotian government. During my grandfather’s tenure as the 20th Lt.-Gov. of Nova Alexander Graham Bell Scotia, I stayed at Government House numerous times. It was wonderful to revisit many of the magnificent rooms I had helped sponsor his education explored as a 10-year-old boy. I remember zooming down the long banister with wild abandon, much to the great amusement to St. Andrew’s College.” of my grandfather! life, and it was his talent for maintaining the common touch At the unveiling, I was breathless at first, vainly searching that endeared him to the thousands who came to know him. for words to describe what my eyes were attempting to absorb. And, to a young boy such as myself, he was a magnificent figure The portrait is so lifelike, I felt my grandfather would speak at in his official uniform. He truly was my hero. any moment. The bust sits in the state dining room, opposite a By believing in his dream to put a man into the air, my beautiful portrait of the Queen. grandfather changed the world of his time forever. He served his I recall many discussions with Gampy and the lessons he province and his nation with excellence and with pride. I am passed on to me. He spoke of the endearing and durable qualities honoured beyond words to be his grandson. I am delighted we that make Nova Scotians such special people. He never forgot paid homage in Government House and in Baddeck to the man his roots. When Prime Minister MacKenzie King appointed him whom many consider to be the Father of Canadian Aviation. Lt.-Gov., my grandfather said he would perform his duties “as Honorary Colonel Gerald Haddon well as a country boy from Cape Breton could.” In spite of the many honours earned during his lifetime, he *This article has been condensed for space. The full account appears on remained a modest man. He met people from every station in Vintagewings at http://tinyurl.com/zam5g7p
www.sac.on.ca 15 A New Path to a Bright Future St. Andrew’s launches a new Strategic Plan
“In early 2017, the Board of Governors approved a new five-year Strategic Plan for St. Andrew’s College. This is a bold plan that requires the input and action of all members of the St. Andrew’s community. I truly believe that at the completion of this plan, we will be positioned as one of, if not the most, forward-thinking independent schools in the country.”
— Kevin R. McHenry, Headmaster
he goal of the St. Andrew’s College Strategic Plan Authentic learning is to seek excellence as well as to propel the School Strategic vision toward becoming the most forward-thinking We continue to affirm the primacy of teaching independent school in Canada. The College is and learning at St. Andrew’s College, with committed to its mission, vision, values, and a focus on pursuing a more constructivist Tfoundational principles; it also intends to push into new areas pedagogy and developing an innovative of evidence-based innovation that will prepare and support curriculum that reflects the specific needs of boys today and students in their quest to become remarkable young men. in the future. After two years of consideration, SAC’s 2017-2022 Strategic Plan is ready. With the input of all constituent groups, from Old Goals Boys and parents to faculty and the School’s Strategic Planning Our goal is to ensure our instructional practice provides our Committee, four key areas were identified as foci: Academic boys with authentic learning opportunities that will help them Innovation, Wellness, Connected Community, and Facilities and connect with others and pursue their passions. Further, we Financial Sustainability. The following is a brief outline of the believe curricular orientations at St. Andrew’s College are both four pillars; for more detail, refer to the interactive website at transactional and transformational. www.sac.on.ca/interactivestratplan17 Our position is that while there will always be a place for
16 SPRING 2017 traditional models of teaching and learning, we will seek to Finding meaning through create more opportunities for teachers to develop experiential, interdisciplinary, and inquiry-based approaches within the relationships context of best practices identified in the educational literature. Strategic vision Constructivist approaches such as these provide our boys with St. Andrew’s will develop and enhance opportunities to connect with each other, gain a greater networking and mentoring opportunities for contextual understanding of their place in the world, and all Andreans within and beyond the gates to grow their vision of themselves. We seek to find a balance increase the number of Andreans with lifelong between helping boys increase their knowledge and devel- connections to the College. We will continue to promote the oping in them competencies and skills that are transferable Andrean spirit and nurture a culture of philanthropy to ensure in any context. the long-term financial sustainability of SAC. Finally, we believe that education is as much about character as it is about content. It is our belief that a holistic Goals approach to teaching and learning will lead our boys to an In order to foster the mentality of being an “Andrean for Life,” understanding of the interconnectivity of all things, thereby we will develop, emphasize, and expand our lifelong relation- ensuring compassion and empathy are the long-term under- ships with all Andreans around the world. lying motivators in their life choices. Through our philanthropic efforts, we will ensure the School has the best facilities and programs that support the mission. We will endeavour to grow endowed funds to provide financial A holistic approach aid to help admit mission-appropriate students to the College Strategic vision and to provide unrestricted support to school operations. St. Andrew’s is committed to supporting wellness for all students and ensuring proactive education on mental, physical, Facilities and financial emotional, and social health. We will continue to create global citizens focused on 21st century sustainability skills and community service. A culture of happiness, Strategic vision support, and positivity is critical to school and life success. The School will examine its priorities with We encourage healthy living habits through a focus on regard to new facilities and renovations and physical health and wellness, and the discovery of personal develop a long-term strategy to address the values and meaning through connections to self and others. highest priorities. The School endeavours to ensure that its financial management processes and protocols Goals are among the most advanced in the country and that cash Our objective is to integrate all wellness services and develop reserves are maintained at a level to ensure that a short-term the School’s “circle of care” further in order to serve our challenge can be managed effectively. students’ best in all their needs. Whether within or beyond our gates, we will continue to Goals instil in our students the value of our own community and We will facilitate the long-term financial stability of the School develop an appreciation and sense of personal responsibility by maintaining cash reserves and building unrestricted to communities around the world. As part of that process, we endowment funds as a fundamental principle of our fiduciary look to re-conceptualize our Chapel program in order to responsibilities. create a greater awareness of spirituality and broader societal We endeavour to dutifully prioritize facilities’ improvements responsibility in our students. and identify other operational cost requirements that emerge We will develop and deliver a “life skills” curriculum that from the implementation of the Strategic Plan and incorporate represents those elements of a well-rounded education we approved projects into the operational and capital budgets of believe are critical for students and their future. Furthermore, the School. we want to ensure that the experiences of all our students, both Consideration will be given to the long-term purpose and day and boarding, are valued and treated equally. value of facilities, space, both renovations and re-organiza- tion, keeping in mind the principles of “long life, loose fit, and low energy.”
www.sac.on.ca 17 Old Boy Lunch and Learns New peer-to-peer networking seminars
he first in a series of Lunch and Learn seminars took place at Toronto’s Scotia Bank Plaza earlier this year. It was a networking opportunity exclu- sive to Old Boys and hosted by Stu Smith ’92, an T18-year veteran in the wealth management industry. Over lunch, Stu spoke about the particulars of his industry and fielded questions from the 15 participants. Stu spoke very candidly, something the group really appre- ciated. His session resonated with those in attendance, and I was approached afterward by others willing to host similar ones at their place of business. Professionals from many different industries and ages helped make for stimulating conversation. “It was an eclectic group of Old Boys, but I was happy to see, as in most gath- erings of St. Andrew’s ‘boys,’ that everyone was friendly and appreciated meeting other Andreans,” noted Jim Herder ’64. “The bond, the brotherhood, is alive and well.” The invitation went out to those within the GTA. It was encouraging to see how well the format was received. As Geoff Campbell ’03 stated, “The concept of Old Boys networking in a way that creates business and learning opportunities is a great initiative. I’m in going forward.” I hope these sessions will catch on and be replicated in other cities with high concentrations of Old Boys. The next one We expect to feature speakers from myriad professions. is scheduled for Wednesday, June 14 and will feature Jake There are many benefits to being an Old Boy, and this is one Bullen ’89, a lawyer with Cassels Brock in Toronto (see Jake’s of them. profile on page 47). In the fall, sessions are in the works with Attendees from Stu’s Lunch and Learn agree: “It was a useful an estate planner, a sports broadcaster, and a medical doctor. and good old-fashioned networking event,” said Ted Mercer ’96. Watch the Old Boys e-Newsletter for dates and locations. “Keep them coming.” NICHOLAS WEEDON ’02
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Social media is the fastest way to get information from any source, and St. Andrew’s is twitter.com/StAndrews1899 proud to be constantly growing its network. Over the past three years, SAC has worked hard to inform our global constituents with timely and stimulating content. New posts
ollege facebook.com/StAndrewsCollege appear most days on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and most recently, Snapchat. This s C opens a window into daily life at St. Andrew’s, as well as being a great way to stay in youtube.com/StAndrews1899 touch with your school, learn about upcoming events, and connect with Old Boys, current w’ parents, staff, and students. Instagram @StAndrewsCollege1899 If you aren’t following us, you’re missing out. ndre Snapchat @StAndrews1899 ST. A ST. connected
18 SPRING 2017 The Tragedy that Brought Me Here
Bill Holmes ’56 wrote in after reading “Eyes on The Road,” an article appearing on the SAC website last fall. The article was about a grassroots movement begun by Darren Mason ’86, and others after losing a friend to distracted driving. Bill says the article evoked a powerful reaction in him because of a life-altering event he experienced years ago. Here, in his own words, is his story.
round 10 p.m. on August 20, 1950, I was asleep When my mother was discharged from the convalescent in the back seat of my parents’ car driving on hospital, she came to live with my aunt and uncle, who in later the QEW from a visit to Niagara Falls back to years moved off campus to Newmarket. She eventually moved our home in Hamilton. We were rear-ended by to Toronto and I lived in her apartment while I attended the a drunk driver, bounced into the meridian, and University of Toronto. A went end-over-end three times. Although I had lost my father at a very critical age in my My father, the driver, was killed instantly. My mother, in the young life, I was fortunate to have two things to support me: a front seat, and I survived. We were taken to hospital in nearby strong and loving family network and the excellent educational Grimsby. My mother suffered a opportunities that St. Andrew’s broken neck. In addition, afforded me. My schoolmates because the battery broke in the became extensions to my family crash, she was badly burned on and although we have since the neck and chest by the acid. widely dispersed, I still maintain The hospital nurses wheeled a connection with many. me, age 13 and an only child, into Darren Mason’s story prompts her room in the middle of the me to add another perspective on night because she insisted on the consequences of distracted being the one to tell me about my driving. Hopefully, current father, whom I’d been asking for. I Andreans are exposed to the didn’t see her again for several responsibilities that go along with weeks. She spent the better part driving a car. I urge all Old Boys of two years in hospital and in to take the opportunity to impress rehabilitation facilities. I suffered this on their children, their a broken nose, a few lost teeth, grandchildren, and with whom- and a fractured skull. ever else their opinion may hold Fearing my mother might die, weight. (I used to tell my daugh- I was made a ward of my father’s ter’s boyfriends my story and ask younger brother, James Aubrey them to call me, no matter what Holmes, and was discharged time of day, if they’d had too from hospital to live with him and much to drink, and I would come his wife, Youla, and their two and pick them up, no questions young children, ages 5 and 3. Bill Holmes with a photo of himself taken during his final year asked. And, yes, I did get a few Uncle Aub had recently been at SAC calls.) hired as Director of the Athletics and Cadet programs at St. Probably the only thing that comes close to what the victims Andrew’s College and lived on Masters’ Row. Because of that of a “self-distracted driving” incident experience, would be the connection, I was able to attend St. Andrew’s, first as a day boy life-long burden that the perpetrators, those who engage in this in Upper Second and thereafter as a boarder, through to avoidable habit, must experience for the rest of their lives. graduation in 1956. BILL HOLMES ’56
www.sac.on.ca 19 Robertson Laidlaw SAC’s longest-serving teacher had connections to two prime ministers and a famous author
December, I received an email asking for where he gained his teaching certificate. He started at SAC in information about St. Andrew’s College’s longest- 1909 as a history and geography teacher, and remained at the serving faculty member, Robertson Laidlaw. The School until his retirement in 1961. In 1916, he was commis- sender, Kathleen Laidlaw Pitruniak, is Laidlaw’s sioned lieutenant in the 48th Highlanders. In great niece, and she was interested in finding out more about her Bob was a favourite among faculty and students, who relative. Kathleen and her husband, Bob, visited the School to nicknamed him Pitt. He was also a man who remained humble look through Laidlaw’s papers. What they found helped them despite his many accomplishments: keen angler, skillful add to their genealogical records, and in return, they were kind violinist, keen rugby coach, scholar, and poet. Alf Wirth, enough to provide documents from the Laidlaw family. Class of 1958, recalls: “…he spent a lot of time in the library Robertson (Bob) Laidlaw was born in Hamilton, Ontario, in and kept us quiet when we wanted to talk...” 1884, the youngest child of the Rev. Robert J. Laidlaw and From 1926 to 1941, Laidlaw was Housemaster of Flavelle Margaret McColl Laidlaw. His parents had both died by the House. After his retirement, he continued to live at the College, time he was 11, and his mother’s family raised him. He had ultimately ending his days in a local nursing home, where he died three older siblings, two brothers and a sister. His brother, in 1970. His name, however, lives on at SAC. In his retirement Campbell Laidlaw, was Kathleen Pitruniak’s grandfather. Laidlaw attended Queen’s University, followed by Harvard, and then the University of Toronto,
Left: Jim Dunn ’59, shown here in his graduating year, remembers Mr. Laidlaw explaining the battle of Thermopylae in ancient history. “It didn’t seem like a typical lecture, rather more like a description by one of the participants. I still remember it 50 years later!” Right: Master Laidlaw with his students, circa 1910
20 SPRING 2017 Roberston Laidlaw with fellow masters circa 1928
“He remained humble despite his many accomplishments: keen angler, skillful violinist, keen rugby coach, scholar, and poet.” year, the SAC Association donated the newly-minted Laidlaw Intriguingly, acclaimed writer, Alice Munro, was also a Trophy to be awarded to the boy who earned the highest number Laidlaw. In 2005, she wrote an account of the Laidlaw of clan points during his last two years at SAC. The following family’s coming to Canada, called The View from Castle Rock. year, Laidlaw’s cousin, Walter, donated a classroom in what is James Laidlaw Sr. was Robertson Laidlaw’s great grandfather now Coulter Hall in his honour. Still later, in 1983, Laidlaw and Alice Munro’s great-great-great grandfather. Robertson House was established in his memory. Laidlaw and Alice Munro are therefore cousins, several His family history is fascinating. His great grandfather, James times removed! Laidlaw Sr., came to Canada in 1819 and was an acquaintance The Pitruniaks were delighted to explore Laidlaw’s papers, of William Lyon Mackenzie. There is evidence of letters written spending a morning in the library poring over documents. between the two, including one published without Laidlaw Sr.’s Kathleen was happy to see her uncle’s name on the Faculty permission, leading to an angry communication berating Mack- Long-Service Board and his photo on the mural in Dunlap enzie. In a twist of fate, Robertson Laidlaw’s older brother, Hall. We, at SAC, are fortunate to have had such an iconic Campbell, was physician to Prime Minister Mackenzie King. teacher for over 50 years! SUE HAYTER
www.sac.on.ca 21 The Million-Dollar Legacy of Graham & Mary Towers Their estate was an unexpected windfall for the School and remains the largest legacy ever received
raham F. Towers, board of directors for many presti- Class of 1913, and his gious organizations. Throughout his wife, Mary, rubbed life, he maintained ties to St. shoulders with heads of Andrew’s, serving on its Board from government and leaders 1932-1959. In the same Star article, Gof industry during his 21 years at the Headmaster Dr. D. Bruce Macdonald helm of the Central Bank of Canada. described his former student as When appointed to the newly-created unassuming and serious-minded, position in 1934, he left behind a brilliant in languages, and good in 14-year career with the Royal Bank mathematics but no marvel: “A very and arrived in Ottawa like a breath fine boy all the way round.” of fresh air. It therefore came as no huge “Young, a bare 37, slim, natty in surprise that upon Mr. Towers’ death face and figure, Mr. Towers is far in 1975 at the age of 78, his estate removed from the conventional stodgy willed a sum of money to SAC “for old banker of tradition,” stated an uses and purposes of the College as article in The Star. His first official duty its Board of Governors may deter- was an eight-week tour of the central mine.” The $25,000 he left—which banks of Europe. would equal close to $100,000 Mary (who also went by Molly) and Graham Towers Mr. Towers was well-travelled for aboard the Empress of Britain in the fall of 1934. today—was used to establish The one so young. He had dropped out Credit: E. H. Buckley, Southampton England. Bank of Graham F. Towers Bursaries. Money of McGill University at 16 to join the Canada Archives (PC100.1-30) from this fund is awarded annually to Canadian Army, where he was stationed in England and an Upper School student who shows proficiency in subjects France. Upon his return to the university in 1919, he studied close to its benefactor’s heart—commerce, business, or finance. law for six months, then in an abrupt about face, accepted a Eighteen years later, when Mary died, School administrators banking position and took a different career altogether. Posted were stunned to learn the majority of the Towers estate, in excess to the foreign trade department, he lived for a year in Havana of $1 million, was left to the St. Andrew’s College Foundation. and travelled on business to South America, the West Indies, It was an unexpected and unprecedented windfall. Never and Europe. before, nor ever since, had a legacy gift this size been received. When the couple returned from their eight-week tour in Over the years, these funds have helped countless students Europe, they took up residence in Ottawa’s tony Rockcliffe Park. afford a St. Andrew’s education. The Graham F. Towers Bursaries At this time, they had been married for 10 years, and although currently award $15,600 per year, while The Towers Endowment they never had children, they shared a deep affection for their Bursary, now standing at $2 million, disperses $90,000 in Airedale terrier, Teddy. Large parts of each summer were spent scholarship money, all of it merit-based. in idyllic Murray Bay, Que. In recognition of the Towers’ generosity, the SAC library was Graham and Mary enjoyed a comfortable lifestyle and a renamed Towers Library in 1985. A portrait of Mr. Towers was high-rolling circle of friends. Mr. Towers’ position placed him in commissioned, and the painting, by Old Boy Paul Mantrop ’87, the top strata of commerce and business, where he served on the hangs on the wall outside the library. Cindy Veitch
22 SPRING 2017 Heartfelt Gift Connects Families
ast parent, Helen-Claire Tingling, was gifted a beauti- fully-framed traditional native beading, hand-sewn by Pthe great aunt of Neebeesh Elliott ’20. The stunning embroidery took 1,000 hours to complete. The beading of the SAC logo is surrounded with traditional potawotomi flowers worn on family regalia for powows to honour the family’s name. Neebeesh and his parents, Heidi and Geewaden Elliott, met Helen-Claire for the first time over lunch in Cole Hall, where they exchanged heartfelt stories and encouraging words. Neebeesh is the first recipient of the Tingling-Diakun Family Bursary. The endowed fund was established in 2004 by Helen-Claire and her son, Aladdin Diakun ’02, through a life insurance gift. Their wish for the bursary was for it to award a deserving student who has demonstrated excellence in academics or the arts, and a student who has made a contribution to his community. When it eventually came time to award this bursary, Neebeesh fit perfectly. Helen-Claire was truly touched by this meaningful gift given to her in gratitude by the Elliott family. “Now it’s our time to give back,” Helen-Claire said, when speaking about her son Aladdin, who also received a scholarship while attending St. Andrew’s College. Both families are deeply grateful for the support. JULIE WILSON
A traditional native hand-beading by Neebeesh Elliott’s aunt was presented in gratitude to the Tingling-Diakun family. (l-r) Heidi Elliott, Neebeesh Elliott, Geewaden Elliott, and Helen-Claire Tingling
www.sac.on.ca 23 SAC by the numbers
260 boarders 150 domestic 630students 6,000+ Alumni worldwide 41% 59% 40% 83 OF faculty/staff 370 Faculty live on campus day students
100% University students from placement more than around the world 30 countries represented each year
each boy has an average of 6 ties laid end to end, school the sac campus could almost for a total of be circled twice with ties. 32ties 3,798 ties (that’s a lot of ties!) 24 SPRING 2017 and growing yearly The three campuses in our history In scholarships $2.5M and bursaries Chestnut Park, Toronto 26% of students receive an award 1 1899-1905 Rosedale, Toronto 1905-1926 2 10 Current Campus, Aurora Intramural 3 1926 Teams
4 boarding houses 60 70+ Electives Sports Team
Macdonald Flavelle + 7:1 40 Student-Teacher Clubs & Co-Curriculars Ratio Sifton Memorial
OVER academics 52%
athletics 30% $60M arts 14% capital improvements 4% in 15 years infrastructure
N min north 53,203 residents 125–acre campus 45 of toronto in Aurora 3.8 kilometre circumference
www.sac.on.ca 25 Sports News Varsity Hockey Program Achieving Mission NCAA D1 commitments on the rise
Corey Andonovski is a Prefect, a member of the Athletic Council, a Gold Star Cadet Instructor, and a leader in his Advisory group. He shows leadership on the ice as assistant captain of 1st Hockey and plays 1st Lacrosse. Corey was ranked 195th on the NHL Central Scouting Midterm Morgan Barron Ranking this winter, and his is a top student academi- coaches look forward to fol- cally, playing two terms lowing his progress. of sport—1st Hockey, for which he is captain, and 1st Soccer. He is a Silver Star Cadet Instructor. Morgan was ranked 88th on the NHL Central Scouting Midterm Ranking this winter. His coaches and teammates will have their eyes glued to the TV in June for the NHL draft.
The goal of the Varsity Hockey program is to be the number-one program in Canada to combine hockey and education. The team had more NCAA commitments than any Junior A team in Canada this year. Congratulations to these six Saints on their NCAA Division 1 commitments:
1. Corey Andonovski ’17, Princeton University 4. Mathew MacDougall ’18, University of Massachusetts 2. Morgan Barron ’17, Cornell University 5. Alex Newhook ’19, Boston College 3. Cameron Hillis ’18, Providence College 6. Ryan O’Connell ’17, Boston University
Actor Community Volunteer Macdonald House Captain Prefect Student Athlete Scholar Council/Club Member Role Model Musician Artist
26 SPRING 2017 Proudly Carrying St. Andrew’s Football Banner Six graduating students receive scholarships across North America
ne of the proudest hallmarks of our Football pro- gram is our ability, year after year, to help our top graduating players earn football scholarship opportunities at a variety of outstanding univer- sities. This year’s graduating class is a banner Ogroup, with six boys receiving football scholarships from uni- versities across North America. Headlining the group is offensive lineman Gregor MacKellar. Gregor received a full NCAA Division 1 scholarship from Rice University in Houston, Texas. Gregor will join Peter Godber ’13 on the Rice Owls offensive line. Gregor is the sixth Varsity Football Saint to receive an NCAA Division 1 scholarship since 2011. This number is nearly unrivaled in Canada. In addition to Gregor, offensive lineman George Hutchings was one of the top recruits in the country, joining Gregor in (l-r) Walter Karabin, George Hutchings, Hamza Kabir, Gregor MacKellar, earning First-Team All-Canadian honours from Canada Football Ben Schmidt, and Cayne Lander Chat. Following a comprehensive recruiting process, which will back-up another former Saints QB, Chris Merchant ’14. included visits from coaches coast-to-coast, George decided to In fact, the Mustangs roster is currently packed with SAC commit to his hometown University of Calgary Dinos. The Dinos Old Boys, including Yannick Harou ’12, Fraser Sopik ’15, are a perennial national powerhouse, and George will fit in very Jordan Carter ’14, and Joshua Carter ’16. well on what promises to be a talented team. Defensive lineman Cayne Lander has been a three-year Linebacker Walter Karabin has been a three-year starter starter for our program and after weighing recruiting options for our program, serving as a team captain for the past two from across Canada, decided to accept a scholarship from the seasons. Simply put, his impact on our team has been Mount Allison University Mounties. Finally, linebacker and enormous. He has committed to the Queen’s University long snapper Hamza Kabir has accepted a scholarship offer Gaels. Walter will join Ryan Keays ’15 in wearing the from the McGill University Redmen. Hamza will join Andrew famous Queen’s tri-colour uniform. Biddell ’16 when he arrives in Montreal. Ben Schmidt has been our starting quarterback for the In addition to being exceptional football players, these past three seasons. His natural athleticism, strong arm, and tremendous young men are true Andreans who proudly wore tremendous leadership skills, combined to make him a highly our uniform week after week. We wish them nothing but the sought after recruiting target for all of the top programs in absolute best as they advance in their careers and continue to the OUA. Ben decided to accept a scholarship offer from his carry the banner of our Football program with great pride in hometown Western Mustangs. Early in his Western career, Ben the years ahead. LEN GURR
www.sac.on.ca 27 Sports News Three Steps to Athletic Excellence
Andrew’s College formally recognizes student athletic Put in the work St. achievement at the end of each term. These award You can feel proud of accomplishments you work hard to achieve. ceremonies take place in full-school assemblies and always open Never feel entitled to anything, as nothing just happens; you with a reflective and celebratory address. At the culmination of make it happen or you don’t. The effort you put forth is always winter-term sports, David Manning, Assistant Athletic Director on you, not anyone else. and Head Coach of Varsity Hockey and Soccer, shared three important elements of success. Have the right attitude Be enthusiastic, energetic, and passionate in everything you do Be accountable and you will earn the respect of your peers and superiors. If you are accountable, you will thrive when challenged by Always reach for your potential and beyond—this will help coaches, teammates, teachers, and parents. It is not always going you find personal satisfaction whether you win or lose. to be easy; in fact, it may be a struggle—but you will be better It is through sportsmanship, teamwork, and humility that SAC for it. Everything is worth earning. students achieve success on the courts, fields, slopes, and ice.
Fall and Winter Sports Results
Alpine fencing U12 Hockey squash OFSAA qualification Senior Alpine 1 gold, 1 silver, 1 bronze Selwyn House Tourna- 1st Squash Junior Swim CISAA Championship: football ment Champions CISAA bronze CISAA silver: 1 gold, 1 gold; 1st Football nordic ski JV Squash 2 silver; OFSAA qualifi- OFSAA silver CISAA silver Senior Nordic Ski CISAA Champions cation U14 Alpine hockey CISAA Champions U16 Squash Open Swim CISAA bronze: 1st Hockey Junior Nordic Ski CISAA silver CISAA silver: 2 gold, 1 gold St. Sebastian School CISAA Champions: 1 U14 Squash 3 silver; OFSAA qualifica- Basketball Tournament Champions; gold, 1 bronze; OFSAA Red team, CISAA Cham- tion 1st Basketball Armstrong Cup winner; qualification pions; White team, CISAA volleyball SAC Invitational CISAA Champions (fifth soccer bronze U16 Volleyball Champions straight year); MacPher- 1st Soccer swimming CISAA silver cross-country son Tournament silver CAIS National Tourna- Senior Swim U14 Volleyball Senior Cross-Country Varsity B Hockey ment Champions CISAA Champions: CISAA gold OFSAA qualification CISAA Champions 2 gold, 3 silver, 3 bronze;
Curling 2016-2017 Varsity B Hockey team - CISAA Champions
28 SPRING 2017 U16 Football team takes a knee
William Deo ‘17 broke a SAC record from 1999 in the 100m back- SAC’s U12 to Varsity Squash players and coaches stroke set by Ryan Devald ‘00 in 1999
1st Basketball’s Jacob Edwards ‘17 Michael Lakkotrypis ‘17 goes for the slam dunk U12 Hockey’s Fionn Keon, grade 6 JV Soccer
1st Volleyball’s Isaac Emon ‘18 spikes Nordic skiers (l-r) Christian Wallace ‘18, Michael Touche! SAC Fencing had a great season the ball Bahen ‘19, Ryan Jamieson ‘18, and Oli Harris ‘17
See more spectacular sports photos taken by school photographer Paul Mosey at www.sac.on.ca/page/photos
www.sac.on.ca 29 CommunityNews& Retirements
Brendan Bellaire Avery, 3, is very happy and proud to be a big sister! Sean and Whitney met at St. Andrew’s and married in Memorial Chapel in 2010. The couple has worked at St. Andrew’s for 11 years—Sean in Upper School and Whitney in Middle School.
Lori Smith gave birth to Hallie Loreta Grace on December 22, 2016. Lori and her husband, Landon, and a valuable member of the IT team over the past two years and was called upon to run the major laptop rollout this past September. He joined St. Andrew’s in November 2014. and his partner, Carolina Pastrana, became proud parents to Isabela on January 29, a little sister Chris Fortier for Maria Lucia and Dezso. Brendan was recently promoted to IT Services Coordinator. He has been with SAC since January 2011, where he’s done an exemplary job building the Windows 10 image, running the Help Desk, and coordinat- ing laptop rollouts. their son, Hunter, 1½, are thrilled with this pre- cious gift. Lori has taught math and science in Barbara Chambers the Middle School for six years.
John Walsh became the St. Andrew’s physician in November was appointed to the position of Network 2016. He took over from Dr. John Fitzsimons, Systems Administrator in November 2016. John who had served in this role since 1999. Chris’s has been a key member of the St. Andrew’s IT specialities are in sports and emergency team since 2007 when he joined the School as medicine—a perfect combination for St. the Middle School Help Desk Laptop Specialist, Andrew’s College. became the Laptop Coordinator, then served as IT Services Coordinator since 2014. John is a Sean Ludwig & Whitney Elliott dedicated professional who takes great pride in welcomed a beautiful baby girl, Caris Jordyn the work he does and has proven he can master Elliott Ludwig, on November 1, 2016. Big sister any new technology deployed at the School. joined SAC’s Business Office in student billing this past August. She previously worked at First Student Canada as the payroll administrator. Barbara lives in Newmarket with her husband, Mark, and two their children.
Chun-Chow Chang was recently promoted to Laptop and Help Desk Coordinator. CC has proven himself to be
30 SPRING 2017 CommunityNews& Retirements
In June, the School will lose 98 years of collec- Scott Hayter, the execution and success of the tive institutional knowledge as four longtime Not An Ordinary Place Campaign has made the employees retire. Although we will no longer last nine years challenging and fulfilling, and I see these individuals on a day-to-day basis, leave with a sense of accomplishment for having they will always be welcome in the Andrean been part of that,” says Edna. “But most community, and we wish them all the very importantly, the many friendships with Old Boys best in retirement. and parents that have developed over the past 27 years will endure and remain among my Edna Collins fondest memories. I will miss them all.”
Students remember: “Old Boys, and particularly this one, were always impressed by the warm reception Edna always gave us at the School and her miraculous remembering of who we all were.“ — John Trent ’53
“I remember Edna as being the most friendly and welcoming person, a wonderful represen- instructor with the St. Andrew’s College #142 tative of the School.“ Highland Cadet Corp. From 1996 to 2015, he — Walter Somerville ’54 acted as coordinator and mentor for many club activities including DECA competitions. Under Robert Giel his tutelage, the DECA students won many ac- joined St. Andrew’s in 1990, beginning as a colades, the highest a third-place finish at the teacher in the business school, and in 2011, DECA Quiz Bowl held in California, as well as assuming the role of Head of Business Studies. an individual second-place finish in Utah. Robert’s passion for his subject is well-known; “I never felt like I was going to work,” says he gains a true sense of satisfaction when a Robert, of his 27-year career at St. Andrew’s. As joined St. Andrew’s College 27 years ago in former accounting student calls to say he’s for the future, he looks forward to spending 1990 as an Administrative Assistant in what was earned his professional accounting designation. more time with his family, finding deals to travel then known as the Alumni and Development Of- Many students will remember him as in the low-season, and expanding his culinary fice. She recalls that at that time, the School was Housemaster of Macdonald House, a position he skills beyond the barbeque. a very different place—only 450 students and held from 1996 to 2001. During these years he very few women, either admin or faculty. lived on campus with his wife, Kathryn, as they Students remember: Director of Development, Jim Herder ’64, raised their four children, in “a safe and friendly “I stopped in to visit Rob in his economics class. Sandra Scott, and Edna comprised the entire community.” Their son, Duncan ‘05, attended His students asked what I remembered from department and computers were just begin- SAC from grades 9 through 12. Some of the class. I, of course, said “the power of ning to be used for recordkeeping. It was an Robert’s fondest memories include time spent Excel.” All his students seemed shocked and exciting and sometimes hectic environment. in Macdonald House, flooding the rink on the replied, “He said that even back then?” In 2003, Jim asked Edna to take on added re- triangle after lights-out, and watching the boys — Radissen Ramoutar ‘08 sponsibilities for the Annual Fund and Alumni play hockey after school from his office window. Relations as Advancement Officer. During the Robert coached numerous sports teams over “Mr. Giel is the reason why I work for one of Campus Master Plan Campaign Edna was the years including hockey, volleyball, junior golf, the best accounting firms in the world. Best named Associate Director of Advancement. and senior golf. He also served as a Reserve Of- wishes to him!” “Working closely with Executive Director, ficer in the Canadian Armed Forces, acting as an — Corey Tang ‘10
www.sac.on.ca 31 “Mr. Giel is one of the funniest teachers at Students remember: calm demeanour and spiritual fortitude has SAC. My favourite teacher in grade 11.” “… I was a rambunctious, high-maintenance helped to guide, inspire, and unite our — Tim Chuk ‘14 kid with ADHD, and Mr. Shields did a pretty community. good job of teaching me the science 9 By his own estimate, Bruce has performed Greg Shields curriculum as well as the basics of football, 48 marriages, 33 baptisms, and 23 funeral and all while curbing my constant shenanigan memorial services, mostly in our Chapel but off- behaviour… A few years ago, I went back to campus as well. This is in addition to his daily university to complete a B.Ed. During my final responsibilities at Chapel and time spent planning practicum, I personally called Greg after all and coordinating the many special school services these years to thank him for putting up with such as Thanksgiving Prayer Circle, Remembrance me…I could finally, truly appreciate Day, and the Cadet Church Parade. He was a everything he had to offer as a SAC master sought-after liturgical resource for special and coach.” assemblies, regular Monday assemblies, and — Tommy Luxemburger ‘93 Parents Guild events. He composed carefully- crafted introductions to dinners and celebra- “I remember playing 1st Rugby for Greg Shields tions, always offering a prayer of thanks that in ‘02 and ‘03 and coaching the squad with encapsulated the event’s significance. him in ‘10. Great times!” His compassion for others was evident, — Jarryd Stock ‘03 whether in his role as faculty rep for Jack.org, at a residential Circle of Care meeting, or in “Mr. Shields was an excellent teacher; he time devoted to students, staff, or faculty taught me grade 11 biology and I really liked members seeking counsel. his passion and his teaching. I remember It is hard to remember Carol Service without dissecting a pig and learning its anatomy picturing Bruce presiding at the altar, or more has played many roles in his 29-year SAC and physiology.” recently, overseeing the Benediction for An career: science and biology teacher, football — Chee Sung (Justin) Oh ‘07 Andrean Christmas at Roy Thomson Hall. His and rugby coach, board member, and parent office in University Counselling was always to Old Boys Joseph ‘15 and William ‘17. Some Bruce Roffey open, and he’s helped countless students with of his favourite memories as a teacher involve university and scholarship applications. He has travelling with students and representing the taught courses for grade 10 Careers and grade School on trips to New York, Los Angeles, 11 World Religions. And his meticulous England, Scotland, Russia, and the Ukraine. He management of the community service particularly enjoyed leading the St. Andrew’s database on Edsby has ensured each student Society for Service in Nepal (SASSIN) in 1996 receives credit for every hour of service worked. and 1998. Winning the OFSSA Golden Horseshow Bowl at Skydome (now Rogers Students remember: Centre) in 2001 and 2003 were coaching “I was blessed in countless ways by the Rev. highlights. In 2006, Greg received the Harry J. Roffey: when I listened to him speak in the Addison Memorial Award for outstanding Chapel or teach in the classroom; ironically, contribution to football at St. Andrew’s. some of the most profound times I’ve had Greg’s career and personal life converged with him were in the hallways when he soon after joining the College in 1988, when would ask how my day was really going, or he met his future wife, Anne, at a colleague’s when he would offer me a timely word of dinner party. The couple married on the Quad encouragement.” in 1990, and eventually brought both of their — Scott Elliott ’14 newborn sons home to their first house, Campbell House West. He is most proud of his “Mr. Roffey is a huge reason why I am who I sons’ development into fine Andreans, playing The Reverend Bruce Roffey’s role as School am today.” in the Pipes & Drums, flourishing on stage, and Chaplain placed him at the very heart of — Andrew Keenleyside ’13 seeing them graduate with honours. Andrean life. Over the past 15 years, his quiet,
32 SPRING 2017
Old Boys News 1942 1955 1906 George Brickenden Steve Newroth Lawren Harris attended An Andrean Christmas and classmate, Richard Webb, painted Mountain Forms in 1926 at Roy Thomson Hall (version 2.0) met in New York City last August at Alberta’s Mount Ishbel in the on January 20. He and son-in-law, for brunch. Richard’s wife, Pepita, Sawback Range of the Rocky David Dunlap ‘56, took to the stage along with two of his children, Mountains in Banff National Park. This mountainscape with the other Old Boys present for were with him. Steve also met with painting by the Group of Seven the singing of Amazing Grace and some of his classmates and founder was in the news this Dorset Carol. At age 94, George members of the Class of 1954 back past November when it sold for $11.21M U.S., becoming the was the most senior—and quite on campus a month later when most expensive artwork ever possibly the proudest—Old Boy to they gathered for a combined to sell at a Canadian auction. lend his voice. 61st and 62nd reunion. The group Credit: Heffel Gallery Ltd. Credit: The buyer remains anonymous. of 34 toured the School, enjoyed brunch in Cole Hall, then reconvened for dinner in Toronto. 1951 Steve lives in Gravenhurst, Ont., Chris Smith with his wife, Ann. holds dozens of Canadian and Ontario swimming records, and at almost 85 years of age, has his sights set on earning a few 1960 more. In February, Chris broke Kirk Gardner four Ontario records at a swim retired from Scripps Institution of meet in Buffalo: the 200-yard Oceanography a few years back fly, the 400-yard IM, and the Credit: Tim Finlan, Toronto Toronto Star Tim Finlan, Credit: 50-yard and 100-yard free. Chris but continues as a volunteer lead- had already broken eight other Ontario records earlier in the year at a swim meet George Brickenden (left) and ing tours. Located in the University in Etobicoke, Ont. He is in his seventh age group as a masters swimmer, having David Dunlap of California in San Diego, the re-entered the sport at 58 years old. Since then, he has broken over 80 Ontario institution is one of the oldest and records and over 30 Canadian ones. This is an incredible feat for a man who just two years ago survived quintuple bypass surgery. largest centres for ocean and earth 1942 science research, public service, Bredin Stapells and undergraduate and graduate 1966 is now 91 years old but still re- training in the world. Kirk points Richard Weston members his days at St. Andrew’s, celebrated his 70th especially playing the bagpipes. birthday in Toronto After retiring from his Toronto law with classmate, George practice, he and his wife, Beverley, Dangerfield, and brother, Don ‘63. Richard teaches lived for a time in Bermuda and labour-management England. Toronto, however, was relations at the University always in his heart, so he returned of Guelph and lives in London, Ont. to the city where he was born. Now Kirk Gardner at Montpelier, Vt., a widower, he moved to Hazelton where he and his wife, Carole, Retirement Home in 2011, but this live from late May to mid- November. He volunteers at the (l-r) Richard Weston, George Dangerfield, past Christmas, Bredin moved to Vermont State House and invites Don Weston Port Hope, Ont., to be close to his Andreans to stop by for a tour youngest daughter. if in the area
34 SPRING 2017 out that global warming was discovered by Scripps scientists 1976 and invites Andreans visiting the Robert Kitchen 1969 city to come by for a tour of the Rob McEwen facility and its pier. was inducted into the Canadian Mining Hall of Fame during the 29th Annual Dinner and Induction Ceremonies in 1973 January at the Metro Toronto Ian Tait Convention Centre. Scott was offered a three-year assign- Hayter, Executive Director of Advancement, Sean Ludwig, ment to lead a practice team with Course Director of the McEwen Deloitte Australia in Sydney fol- Leadership program, and Old lowing a very successful run with was elected as Member of Parlia- Boy Officer, Nick Weedon ‘02, Deloitte Consulting in Canada. The ment for Souris–Moose Mountain, attended the dinner. Houghton Photography Keith Credit: Rob McEwen (left) with Pierre Lassonde, professional challenge was inter- Sask., in the October 2015 federal chairman of Franco-Nevada Corporation esting: build and grow the team. election. This past year-and-a-half It was matched with a personal has been a huge learning curve, benefit of being significantly closer says Robert. Aside from being the 1975 to his daughter, who recently voice for his constituents in Ottawa, Stephen Peter married and lives in Melbourne, a he serves as an Official Opposition is now retired and, along with one-hour plane ride away. Ian and Critic for Sport, as well as the vice- his wife, Ruth, spends most of his time between his homes in his wife, Cathy, are enjoying the chair of the Standing Committee on Florida and Scotland, where great opportunity and adventure Veterans Affairs. “To this day, I have they enjoy camping, hunting, of living in Sydney and find it not forgotten my early years of and gardening. Stephen and a great launching point to visit education at St. Andrew’s College. Ruth have been blessed with five grandsons and one destinations such as New Zealand It afforded me a strong foundation granddaughter. and South East Asia. of knowledge, as well as instilling my continued thirst to learn more,” says Robert. He and his wife, 1974 Donna, live in Estevan, Sask., and Jamie McTavish have three grown children. 45th retired from ScotiaMcLeod 1972 Anniversary Reunion in 2011 and now sits Class of 1972 Robin Wilkie Friday, Sept. 29 on the Province of 40th 1980 was a minister British Columbia’s Risk Anniversary Reunion Alex Robertson at Marshall Memorial United Management Commit- Class of 1977 and his wife, Ann, Friday, Sept. 29 Church in Ancaster, Ont., for 20 years tee Board, determining visited campus for before retiring in May 2016. In retire- the scope of the province’s the first time in over ment, he has enjoyed wine, golf, and borrowing needs on an ongoing 15 years in December. travel; however, he will be returning to work part-time for another church basis. He says it is enjoyable, as the They enjoyed many of the new until it is able to find a new minister. committee has dealt with a num- additions to the School, as well Robin continues to raise funds and ber of first-time borrowing issues as its architecture, a passion of support causes near and dear to his for B.C. as they relate to China and Alex’s. They planned on attend- heart, including L’Arche Hamilton and Wesley Urban Ministries, both of India. Jamie and his wife, Karen, ing An Andrean Christmas at which help those less fortunate in the live in Vancouver. Roy Thomson Hall; however, due Hamilton area. All in all, Robin says life is good!
www.sac.on.ca 35 Old Boys News
years working with ScotiaMcleod. 1987 Jon and his wife, Pam, have two Chris Roberts teenage daughters and live in Jon’s hometown of Brampton. He still plays hockey twice a week, and Alex Robertson he recently caught up for dinner in and his wife, Ann Toronto with ‘83 classmates Stew to the event being rescheduled Kiff, Scott Nirenberski, and Geoff they were unable to attend. Alex Hutchinson. Jon still sees old SAC continues to work as manager, friends Peter Callahan ’83 and operations, at Comox Valley Air- Geoff Crawford ’83 regularly. port on Vancouver Island, not far from where he 35th 1986 and Ann live. Anniversary Reunion Darren Mason Class of 1982 addressed the students at Friday, Sept. 29 SAC in October 2016 about was a guest at Arts Week in February. He has worked as a professional artist for 22 years and has been part of the group of artists called Drawnonward, which 1982 a grassroots organization he and includes a few Old Boys (Robert Saley ‘89, Gord Kemp ’88, Steve McDonald ’88, Adam his friends started following the loss Paul Mantrop ‘87). During Arts Week, Chris worked on a portrait of his daughter, Moreland of their good friend in a car accident. and students witnessed his unique action-painting technique, which he now uses to create stunning portraits. During his three days at SAC, Chris visited Upper and his daughter, Marina, loaded The Eyes on the Road Campaign School art classes for presentations, critiqued some grade 10 and 12 paintings up their mountain bikes with is a wrist-band project they in progress, did a Q&A and painting demos with Middle School classes, and camping gear and followed the initiated to remind everyone not to entertained any and all visitors in his temporary studio Great Divide Mountain Bike Route be distracted while driving. Darren in Staunton Gallery. He says art was always one of his favourite subjects while at SAC, but he obtained a from Banff to Jackson, Wyo. The lives in Toronto with his family. 30th degree in geography and philosophy from Queen’s two rode for more than four Anniversary Reunion “for insurance” while continuing to paint. Today, weeks over 1,500-kms of forestry Class of 1987 Chris works from his studio in Nottawa, Ont., roads, trails, and back roads that Friday, Sept. 29 where he lives with wife, Shanan, and two children, 1991 Theodora and Rhys. Chris always welcomes included steady climbs of up to Kelvin Tantuco commissioned work. 20-kms long. In addition to the is export manager for Tantuco endless, wonderful, and stunning Enterprises Inc., one of the Philip- landscapes, Adam and Marina pines’ leading manufacturers of 1990 also encountered the best in peo- high-quality refined, bleached, and Ryan Austin ple along their route. One lady lent deodorized coconut oil, coconut and his wife, Tiffany, incorporated them her car so they could get to fatty acid, distillate vegetable short- their 10-year-old company, Advanced the hospital following an accident. ening, margarine, copra cake, coco Rider Training Inc., in 2016. The com- They have already started plan- methyl ester, and crude glycerine. pany provides advanced motorcycle training to police departments and ning their next adventure. Adam He lives in San Juan with his wife, civilians across Canada and the United is the owner of Moreland Forest Chastity, and their two children, States. Ryan is a recognized expert in Products in Christopher Lake, Sask. Danella, 20, and Yeshua, 7. collision reconstruction and motor- cycle training/dynamics. The advanced riding program was designed to provide vital advanced skills found 1983 1992 lacking in the collisions he has inves- Jon Tyner Carl Milroy tigated over the past 23 years. Ryan and Tiffany live in London, Ont., where is now working as an investment launched his micro brewery, Red he is also police sergeant for Western advisor at RBC Dominion Securi- Thread Brewing Co., in January. University’s Campus Police Service. ties in Mississauga, after many He says the company believes
36 SPRING 2017 in brewing quality, flavourful beers, 1996 1990 without preserva- 25th Kam Chan Anniversary Reunion Blair Leggett tives and is focused Class of 1992 worked on the on using local Friday, Sept. 29 Highway 407 East ingredients. Carl Phase 2 project in and his family live in Ontario as an environ- Newmarket. mental specialist for 18 months, then in July 2016 returned to the environmental consulting industry 1995 when he joined Matrix Solutions Ronald Chu Inc. Matrix is a Canadian and is sales director for Gemalto’s employee-owned environmental Security Business Unit, Asia. He and engineering consulting com- is leading the sales team for the pany providing integrated services Asian market with specific focus and innovative solutions to clients on government projects. Gemalto across Canada and internationally. is an international digital security Kam works in the Mississauga of- company providing software ap- fice and is involved with business plications, secure personal devices development and technical work. such as smart cards and tokens, and his wife, Jeana, continue to develop their game-writing engine StoryStylus, and managed services. It is the aimed at helping writers create and publish narrative-based video games through world’s largest manufacturer of 1996 their company, One More Story Games. In 2016, they released four games, two of SIM cards. Ronald and his wife, Justin Lindquist which took top spot for Game of the Year by Toronto GameDevs. In March 2017, the couple taught their software at Microsoft’s Vancouver studio as part of a Girls Sandy, live in Singapore. stopped by the School for a tour in Tech initiative. They are currently developing a game adaptation of author Char- this past December while in town laine Harris’ Lily Bard series for release in late 2017. for his grandfather’s funeral. Jus- 1995 tin is a neurologist in Orlando, Fla. Jed Dadson He also collects Andrean military 1998 has been working in the medical history, and in the past few years Travis Beatty devices industry for the past 15 has donated medals, plaques, and married Jackie Smith on November 19, 2016 in Toronto. A reception for family years, most recently as head of paperwork for Robert Lawrence and friends was held at Factory Girl Gastropub on the Danforth. Old Boys in atten- dance included classmates Andrew Malloy, Jason Perrier, Andrew Weedon, Canadian sales and marketing Junkin, Class of 1907 and for and Nick Weedon ‘02. for Bellco, a manufacturer of Lt. John Walter Ings, devices for the treatment Class of 1914. of kidney failure. Bellco 20th was recently acquired by Anniversary Reunion Medtronic, the world’s Class of 1997 1998 Friday, Sept. 29 largest manufacturer of Tomas Hirmer medical devices, to create a completed an electri- new renal-care-solutions business cal engineering degree and unit. Jed continues to oversee an M.Sc. in space sciences at the Canadian sales and marketing in International Space University in addition to several global initiatives France. He has worked for several for this high-growth unit. When not years in the aerospace industry travelling, he resides in Mississauga (MDA Space Missions, German (l-r) Nick Weedon, Andrew Weedon, Jackie and Travis Beatty, Andrew with his longtime partner, Rachel. Aerospace Center) and in the Malloy, and Jason Perrier
www.sac.on.ca 37 Old Boys News
as a management consultant 1998 with Deloitte and Touche. He Mark Landry said international experience was recently promoted to manag- helps to broaden horizons and ing director at CIBC Capital add perspective, something he Markets, where he helps lead experienced early in his career the retail and consumer products Tomas Hirmer investment banking practice. with stints in Germany and China. In this role, Mark has worked international-development field on a wide range of transac- (United Nations, World Bank). He tions including the recent IPOs of Freshii and Canada Goose, is currently finishing his doctor of and M&A transactions including medicine degree in Calgary. On Lowe’s $3.2 billion acquisition a recent visit to SAC, Tomas was of Rona and Leon’s $809 million impressed to see the excellent acquisition of The Brick. Mark and Melinda Maggisano (BSS ‘01), who recently completed her residency in new developments to the campus general surgery at the University of Toronto, are proud parents of Spencer, infrastructure, which he feels will 3½, and Julius, 1½. undoubtedly continue to enrich the 1998 lives of students for years to come. Jonathan Price He advised students it’s never too and his wife, Jennifer, welcomed 1999 early to start networking, that their second child, McArthur Adam Newton exploring information is critical, Michael Price, on December 27, and to be self-motivated. 2016. Older sister, Olivia, is proud as can be! Jon and his family live in Collingwood, Ont. 2000 Gordon Ozawa spoke at Grade 11 Career Days in February, where he shared his and his fiancée, Lindsay Hastings experiences at Queen’s University (Branksome Hall ‘99), welcomed and as a nuclear engineer. He cur- 1999 daughter, Lucy Louise, on December rently works at Candu Energy Inc. Daniel Mok 12, 2016. Older sister, Gwendelyn, as a senior fitness-for-service en- took up running in 2012 to explore new 8, is delighted to have a new gineer in the component integrity places and connect with nature. Four addition to the Newton clan. Adam department, performing structural years later, he is surprised he continues is a cardiac sonographer at the integrity assessments on nuclear to run and, in fact, competes in numerous marathons. He ran his first marathon, the University of Ottawa Heart Institute. reactor components. Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon, in 2014 and has participated in six more since then. Daniel tells us St. Andrew’s College has a special place in his heart; even though 1999 2001 he never excelled in any of the sports he Matthew Wettlaufer James Allen participated in, he believes the participa- was at SAC in February to speak and Laura Petit wed at the Rose- tion in team sports gave him the mental with grade11 students at Career water Room in downtown Toronto toughness for his education, his life, and of course, finishing a 42.195-km race. At this Days. Matt has worked in the on September 23, 2016. The Class year’s Scotiabank marathon, Daniel wore finance industry for the past four of 2001 was well represented by the SAC singlet. He is registered for three years as director of strategic initia- Warren Lowe, Michael Camp- more marathons happening in various parts of the world and looks forward to tives with Scotiabank in Toronto. bell, Michael Dainard, Cameron the challenges that lie ahead. Daniel lives in Stouffville, Ont., and runs a landscape maintenance business in the Greater Toronto Area. Prior to that, he spent five years Steed, and Eric Heizer. At present,
38 SPRING 2017 ProfileDr. Robert Lang ’65 Childhood dream of medicine proves the right choice
t’s a good thing Robert Lang ’65 likes to travel because one look at his curriculum vitae prior to 1981, and one might wonder if he ever had a fixed address. Geography was no impediment to his parents’ mili- tary family—his father was a squadron leader in the ICanadian Air Force—so, Robert became accustomed to fre- quent moves. Even at age five and unable to fully enunciate the word ‘pediatrician,’ Robert knew medicine was his calling. After grade 13 at SAC, the University of Western Ontario in London became home during seven years of undergraduate studies and medical school. After this came locums in British Columbia and Ontario, along with a year of emergency medicine near Chicago. “I was doing so much travel between hospitals,” Robert recalls, “that Robert Lang and his wife, Nancy Mackin I took flying lessons and used a small airplane to get around.” Today, Robert’s office is across the road from St. Peter Hos- By the late 1970s, Robert’s focus was on neurosurgery, which pital in Olympia though he doesn’t always need the hospital he studied at Cook County Hospital in Illinois, finishing in for surgeries. “Nancy designed an onsite ambulatory surgery 1981. “I knew right from first year of med school that I wanted centre, so I can do some surgery and spinal injections right to do surgery,” he says. “I loved anatomy and had done a year here in the office,” he says. “Most of my work now is spine of surgical internship in Vancouver and another year back and peripheral nerve. I care for a lot of injured workers and at Western. The neurosurgery interest developed while I was sit on the Industrial Insurance Medical Advisory Committee, working as an extern [medical student or graduate in medicine a workers’ comp organization. I treat a lot of lower back pain, who assists in patient care in the hospital but does not reside which it seems almost everybody has.” there], and I was able to make that happen at Cook County.” Travel has not disappeared from Dr. Lang’s life. “We have Since then, Robert has settled near Seattle in Olympia, a home in West Vancouver as well, where Nancy and my son Washington. Piloting has receded into the past. “After the spend much of their time, so I’m back and forth between here birth of our son, family became more important than the risky and there.” Biking, sailing, scuba diving, and skiing are fre- life of small planes,” he says. During a summer ski camp at quent pastimes in this active family. Whistler, he met the love of his life. Architect Nancy Mackin Was the youthful drive toward medicine the right decision? had designed Nancy Greene’s Olympic Lodge and happened “This has been a challenging career,” says Dr. Lang, “but I love to be doing a site visit. They married in 1989. Nancy later medicine. It is extremely rewarding because when you help completed her PhD on the architectural history of the Nisga’a, someone, you can change their life significantly for the better. Indigenous Peoples of British Columbia. Son Robert, now 26, “On top of that, we live in a beautiful place, right on the tip studies marine science at BCIT and in 2014 was aboard the of a point, facing the Olympic Mountains. We have water right Coast Guard ship Sir Wilfrid Laurier that helped discover Sir out front. I kayak with orcas, seals, and sea lions. It’s idyllic.” John Franklin’s Erebus. JIM McGILLIVRAY
www.sac.on.ca 39 Old Boys News
in Canada. Michael and his wife, 2001 Stacey, also welcomed their second Michael Campbell child, Lucas Alan, on January 1, the and his wife, Stephanie, welcomed first baby born in the New Year in their second son, Hunter Jackson, the Kitchener-Waterloo area. Their on August 24, 2016. Older brother, two-year-old daughter, Chloe, is Griffin, can’t wait to strap the pads on Hunter and use him for target excited to have a younger brother practice. Michael continues to work around the house. at WSP International, a promotional tactics and brand-strategy firm, as vice-president. 2002 James Allen & Laura Petit Richard Goldhar the newlyweds are hoping to ex- and his wife, Jennifer, welcomed perience as much global culture as their second child, Samuel Joey possible before they contribute to Henry, October 29, 2016. Jennifer the next generation of SAC soccer. continues practicing personal 2002 injury law at her family Jason Bayley firm, while Richard’s and his wife, Lee-Anne, 2002 15th trustee in bankruptcy welcomed Abigail Louise on Michael Faulds Anniversary Reunion practice is doing well. September 15, 2016. They are coached the Laurier Class of 2002 thrilled to be new parents and Friday, Sept. 29 say she is truly a gift beyond Golden Hawks to a measure and a wonder to behold, Yates Cup in November. 2002 and they will treasure her for a The game was one for the John Knutton lifetime. The family recently moved to the Richmond Hill area ages, as the Golden Hawks, down where Jason continues to work 40-19 in the fourth quarter, tied the with RBC Dominion Securities game with less than two minutes as an associate advisor with a chairman’s council advisory team. to play and then won the game on a last-second field goal. For his work with the Golden Hawks 2002 football program during the regular D.J. Bennett season, Michael was named both married Kate McKenna June 4, the OUA Coach of the Year as well 2016 in Toronto. The ceremony as the recipient of the Frank Tindall took place at Little Trinity Trophy as Coach of the Year for Anglican Church followed by a reception and dinner at the all university football programs Thompson Hotel. Old Boys in John, Jenny, and baby Caroline live attendance included classmates 30-minutes north of Disney World Michael Faulds, James Gideon, Jimmy Healey, Giancarlo recently started a new job at Trimarchi, Oliver Radley-Smith, Orlando law firm Pates Law Group, and Nick Weedon, as well as his where he practices family law and brother, Anton ‘06. Both D.J. and criminal defence. He handles every- Kate work in television; Sportsnet and CTV respectively. thing from divorces, alimony, child The newlyweds enjoyed a honeymoon in Hawaii and now live in Toronto. D.J. support, and adoptions to almost spoke at SAC in February during Black History Month, when he told students any kind of criminal case across how his grandparents overcame many obstacles and challenges when they the Central Florida area. John’s immigrated to Canada from Jamaica to give their family greater opportunities. wife, Jenny Hinton, is an assistant
40 SPRING 2017 attorney general in the Orlando of- fice’s consumer protection unit. The 2003 2002 couple welcomed their first child, Kenny Yuen Greg Heward Caroline Taylor, August 24, 2016. and his wife, Lisa, welcomed Sloane John says he would love to meet up Margaret on July 20, 2016. Older brother, Ethan, is delighted to have with Old Boys visiting Orlando for a younger sister around the house. the theme parks. Greg is a volunteer firefighter as well as founder and CEO of WSD Labs USA Inc., manufacturing private label dental-whitening 2002 products. Greg and his family live Carlos Morodo in Tiny, Ont.
participated in SAC’s Remembrance 2002 Day Parade in November 2016. Ryan Kelly Kenny is a 2nd Lieutenant with the is currently living in Toronto, Canadian Armed Forces posted to where he is completing a fellowship in minimally the Denison Armoury in Toronto. He invasive surgery at the is training to become a pilot. University Health Network’s three downtown hospitals: Toronto General, Toronto Western, and Princess and his wife, Daniela Maldonado, 2003 Margaret. Ryan plans to have two sons; 3-year-old Jeronimo Luc Zoratto move back to Nova Scotia and baby Federico, born November in the spring to a general 13, 2016. He says it’s funny that surgery practice in his area of specialty. He and his fiancée, Erin Westby, are also planning a wedding in both his sons are so different, one Iceland this summer. blonde and the other brunette. Car- los is CEO of tissue paper convert- ing plant, Blue Tissue. 2002 Dominic Sacher married Kimberly 2003 Bourne on August 16, 2016. It was a small, David Banwell intimate wedding and his wife, Jenny, welcomed their in Tuscany, with first child, Taylor Alexandra Banwell, Dominic’s 10-year-old on December 17, 2016. Mom, dad, daughter, Jolie, serv- ing as ring bearer and daughter are all doing great. married Leesa Huynh in the and “best woman.” David, who recently completed Distillery District on September 2, As a three-month- his executive MBA at Columbia, is 2016. All Luc’s groomsmen were old baby, Jolie was director at IHS Markit. Old Boys and included his brother diagnosed with reti- noblastoma, a cancer of the eye. Although she lost her left eye, she was able and best man, Adam Zoratto ‘05, to keep her right eye through various chemo programs. She is now cancer-free David Banwell ‘03, Matthew and proud of it. She has a prosthetic eye, which tends to find its way into mis- Posa ‘03, Daniel John ‘03, Ryan chievous places. Dominic once found it in his soup bowl! Dominic and two oth- ers own and operate a technology company, providing software development Hiscox ‘03, and Ryan Austin ‘02. and data-management services, with a specific focus on the gaming industry. Jordan Ross ‘03 was the master They have over 20 years’ experience in pari-mutuel tote integration, mostly of ceremonies. There were another with United Tote in the U.S., but have also worked with totes in Australia and 20 Old Boys in attendance as the U.K. Dominic and his family live in Barbados.
www.sac.on.ca 41 Old Boys News
well. Luc works as a senior sales knot in October 2018. McKenzie 2004 manager for Dell Technologies lives in Toronto. Charles Lai and has been working in real has been working as a user-experience re- estate since 2009, where he searcher for companies like TD Ameritrade, The has represented dozens of Old 2006 College Board, and Google since he graduated Boys throughout the years. Luc Adrian Bruno from Cornell University. He lives in New York with his wife, Jovita, and their daughter, Joielle. and Leesa reside in downtown graduated from the University With their church, they also work to connect Toronto. of Toronto’s Family Medicine- with and serve Chinese immigrant families in Anesthesia Residency program their neighbourhood. in June 2016. After graduation, 2004 he locumed throughout Ontario Brandon Hussey providing anesthesia in rural hos- graduated from the bachelor of pitals. He completed additional medicine/bachelor of surgery courses through CAMH’s Opioid 2005 (MD) program at the University of Dependence Certificate program. Adam Zoratto Queensland in November 2016. He has taken a full-time staff FP- and his wife, Jennifer, were married last year in He will spend 2017 in Australia as anesthetist position at Lakeridge Mexico with all their closest friends and family. a medical intern in Rockhampton, Health, Port Perry, Ont. Adrian They have a 21-month-old daughter, Sofia, who Queensland. has also started a family medi- is the first grandchild in the family.T hey recently moved into their new home in Etobicoke. Adam cine clinic in a family health team has been working in sales at Cintas Canada for through the Medical Associates the past six years, where he has been awarded 2005 of Port Perry. He hopes to start a the #1 Sales Consultant in Canada for the past two. He was recently promoted to sales manager Lennon Sweeting graduate degree in chronic pain for the Toronto and GTA areas. Adam still plays takes care of corporate clients and in the near future. hockey once a week with many Old Boys. market commentary as head of trading and chief mar- ket strategist for HiFX. 10th 2007 2006 HiFX is a sister company Anniversary Reunion Andrew Baer Class of 2007 of XE.com, founded by was hired as man- Anton Bennett Friday, Sept. 29 works for the Toronto Argonauts as manager, communications, and player rela- Old Boys Beric Farmer ‘87 ager, retail opera- tions. This is the sixth season he has been with the Canadian Football League, and Steven Dengler ‘87. tions, for the Oilers having started his career as an intern in 2012 and worked with the Hamilton Entertainment Group Tiger-Cats from 2013-15. In his current role, he oversees all aspects of media relations and player interactions, both locally and nationally. (OEG) this past August, after five 2005 years with the Toronto Rock La- McKenzie Willson was promoted to group manager at the Markham Small Business Credit Centre for TD in January, following a year as senior account manager at TD Commercial Bank. He leads a team of nine small- business credit analysts who adjudicate small-business credit applications. McKenzie says he is
happy with the new position and Andrew Baer on the ice at (l-r) Brendon McCullough ‘03, Chris McFarlane ‘03, Paul Ross ‘06, the commute. He is engaged to Rogers Place, Edmonton, home Mr. Jon Butcher, Anton Bennett ‘06, and Jordan Ross ‘03 Lisa Zhao and the two will tie the of the Oilers
42 SPRING 2017 ProfileAlfredo Solloa ’83 St. Andrew’s is formative, even for one-year Mexican students
lfredo Solloa ’83 was the first of his Mexico City family to attend St. Andrew’s, but he was by no means the last. Alfredo’s 1977-83 career was followed by no fewer than 13 family mem- bers, including his three sons. His older sisters beganA the trend by attending Branksome Hall and referred Alfredo and his brother Carlos ’85 to St. Andrew’s. Today, Alfredo is managing partner in the accounting firm Solloa-Nexia, a company founded by his uncle in the 1960s, specializing in tax and financial advisory services. After SAC, Alfredo received acceptances from McGill and Western uni- versities for economics, but instead he decided to return home and attend Instituto Tecnológico Autónomo de México (ITAM), a private research university in Mexico City, highly regarded (l-r) Eduardo Solloa Cámara, Alfredo Solloa García, Alfredo Solloa for business, accounting, and economics. Cámara, Ivette Cámara de Solloa, Jorge Carlos Solloa Cámara “I loved economics,” Alfredo recalls. “That love was with school work, but after they returned from St. Andrew’s instilled in me at St. Andrew’s but at ITAM I grew away from it their discipline was stronger than ever. and toward business administration and accounting. The first “The overall experience of both academics and sports at two years of math were a breeze for me because of the math I’d St. Andrew’s can be formative, even during a short stay. It’s taken at SAC.” about the all-round man that the School works to develop. At his father’s prompting, Alfredo began working in the After a year or two there, the boys return as better people, not family business during his third year of university. “I began just in education, but in their values and respect and the tools with the company in bookkeeping and then in tax services,” he needed to grow up.” notes. “But today much of my work is day-to-day management. During his grade 11 year at SAC, Alfredo participated in a As you gain experience in the profession and develop long memorable exchange program to the Breton region of France. relationships with clients, they look to you as a general busi- Travel remains a major part of the Solloa family’s tradition. ness counsellor, so I also do a lot of work as an advisor.” Alfredo and Ivette, his wife, take an eight-day European Alfredo and his brother are rare among Mexican St. Andrew’s biking trip with other couples each September. And each July, students in that they attended the School for six and seven the family undertakes a major excursion to exotic locales that years respectively, rather than the usual one. Two of Alfredo’s have included China, Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, sons, Eduardo ’16 and Jorge ’19, attended for one year, while Indonesia, most of South America, India, and different African Alfredo ’15, attended for two (grades 7 and 11). countries. This July will see them visit the Canadian Maritimes “There is a perception that Mexican boys attend St. Andrew’s and then embark on a cruise to Greenland and Iceland. for a year to be immersed in English,” Alfredo says. “But it is Alfredo’s ties with St. Andrew’s remain strong. He has been much more than that. Even one year makes them much more president of the SAC.MEX group in Mexico City for over 15 mature and responsible. They return home appreciating what years, helping to maintain bonds with and between Mexican they have. Our three boys were always good about keeping up Old Boys. JIM McGILLIVRAY
www.sac.on.ca 43 Old Boys News
crosse Club. The new gig involves estate, and legacy planning. St. managing the retail operations for Andrew’s College has played an 2007 Rogers Place (concerts), Edmonton important part in David’s family, Tyson Geick Oilers (NHL), and Edmonton Oil as his father, Gregory ‘76, and has worked in TV/radio/digital media in one ca- Kings (WHL). “That makes another his uncles Brian Miklas ‘78 and pacity or another over the past eight years and Old Boy who has made it to the Paul Miklas ‘80, are also Old is proud to announce he has landed his first NHL,” jokes Andrew, admitting Boys. David credits the College full-time gig in the industry. Tyson started as host, reporter, and producer with the National Michael Del Zotto ‘08 still wins for developing both his scholastic Lacrosse League in October. He says the team for actually playing in the NHL. and professional life, and as a way has a lot of great things in store, and he looks of saying thank you and utilizing forward to helping the league get the recogni- tion it deserves. As well, Tyson is working with some of the strategies he uses the Mississauga Steelheads of the Ontario 2007 with clients, he recently donated Hockey League as host on their broadcasts. David Miklas a life insurance policy of his own completed his MBA in December to the School. “This,” says David, 2015, then travelled for five “has allowed me to leave a much 2007 weeks with his girlfriend, Kate, larger gift than I otherwise could, Greg Van De Mark to Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, and in a tax advantaged manner.” has worked at Oracle for two and a half years Myanmar. While Kate continued with fellow Old Boys, Anthony D’Antonio ‘07 and to travel for another five weeks, Stewart Powell ‘07. Last fall, Greg drove across he made his way home to start Canada to move to Vancouver to live in his 2007 new West Coast sales territory. His beekeeping a job at Stewart Financial, a Michael Nowicki side-hobby produced over 30kg of local Toronto boutique financial planning and unpasteurized honey last year. He recently ran investment firm in Oakville, Ont. into fellow Andreans Drewe MacIver ‘03 and Hamad Mirza ‘08 since living in Vancouver. After a full year with the firm, he couldn’t be happier in his role, one that allows him to combine his strong analytical skillset with a passion for helping others. David’s expertise at Stewart Financial is on the life insurance side of 2009 financial planning. What he likes Sean Ennis about life insurance is that it is completed his master’s of arts degree in history an extremely versatile tool in tax, at the University of Toronto in November 2016. graduated with honours in sci- His area of specialization is the history of Anglo- ences and computers from the German diplomatic negotiations regarding the construction and financing of the Berlin-Baghdad University of British Columbia, Railway in the years leading up to the outbreak Okanagan Campus, in June 2016. of the First World War. Sean is applying for PhD Michael began work as a software programs at Oxford, University of Toronto, Univer- sity of East Anglia, and Trinity College Dublin. He engineer at MDA Corporation, is waiting to hear back from the others but has which specializes in the develop- been accepted to the University of East Anglia to ment, delivery, and automation study under the supervision of Prof. Thomas G. of space-based robotics, space Otte, one of the world’s leading experts on 19th and 20th century European diplomatic history. Sean says his experiences at exploration, on-orbit servicing U of T have been unforgettable, and he is extremely proud of the institution missions, and surveillance and and its reputation. He believes his time at St. Andrew’s, specifically under the intelligence systems. Michael lives tutelage of Dave Stewart, was equally important in preparing him for the in the Vancouver area. rigours of post-secondary academic life.
44 SPRING 2017 One Andrean, 2007 2008 One experience Stewart Powell Barney Tong Amin Nikbin ’12 is team lead and principal system administra- graduated from UBC in 2012 with a bachelor School continues to be the tor at Oracle. He leads a team supporting one of commerce degree. He recently relocated centre of my life. I started of the largest marketing cloud computing back to Hong Kong where he is establishing as an undergrad at Cornell platforms in the world. In addition to his work his own e-commerce agency, Cosa Consulting. University, where I graduated with a BA in at Oracle, Stewart has also started a security- linguistics and philosophy, and a minor in consulting firm that focuses on digital and math. I was awarded summa cum laude physical security and provides policy-compli- 2010 (highest honours) for both of my theses— ance frameworks for professional corpora- Joshua Irwandi one in linguistics and the other in philosophy. tions such as legal firms. had a photographic article of his work in I was also inducted into Phi Beta Kappa, the Asmat, New Guinea, published in The Guard- honour society. ian in February. Joshua’s photos of the Asmat Philosophy is my passion, so I applied to 2007 people is his direct observation of how things graduate schools and was admitted to both Jon Tozzi change in Asmat with the progression in Harvard and UCLA. I am in my first year of a is director of digital development at J. Walter West Papua, Indonesia. Joshua is now home combined master’s and PhD program. Thompson in Sydney, an advertisement in Jakarta and is looking to start his own At St. Andrew’s College, I learned most of company with over 150 years of experience business. He says it was an adjustment going all to explore and take advantage of various and offices all over the world. Jon has been home after spending so much off-civilization opportunities to learn, instead of fencing myself involved in award-winning work for brands time in Asmat. Joshua admits that getting into a single field of study. This helped me in like Tesla, McDonald’s, General Mills, and his mindset back to city life has been quite university when I switched my major twice— RBC. Jon moved to Australia in 2016 and a struggle. He is looking forward to sharing first studying math, and then studying physics. joined J. Walter Thompson after deciding to some of his more recent photographic work I also learned the importance of collabora- see some of the world and work/live abroad in the coming months on his website (found tive work. Academic progress is best made in (“before it’s too late”). He currently lives in by searching his name). cooperation, and my experiences working Bondi Beach with his girlfriend, Hilary, and with others at high school definitely prepared spends his free time learning to surf with fel- me for more of the same in university. low Old Boy, Campbell Mauchan ‘07. 2010 Kent Leslie completed a master’s in biotechnology in SAVE THE DATE May 2015 at Brown University, then moved Reunion Dinner & Homecoming 2017 to Boston to join Amylyx Pharmaceuticals, a biopharmaceutical start-up focused on the Andreans are invited treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. to come back to SAC for Homecoming. Since joining the company, he has been Festivities kick off Friday, Sept. 29 fortunate to be part of a rapid progression with Reunion Dinners for the classes of from the lab bench to clinical trials. Amylyx 1972, 1977, 1982, 1987, 1992, 1997, has advanced from a preclinical pharmaceu- 2002, 2007, 2012. 2008 tical company to its first-in-human trial in Connor Houston patients suffering from Amyotrophic Lateral Homecoming begins Saturday morning, is general manager of Houston Ford in Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s September 30 with sports games Stouffville, Ont. His responsibilities include disease. Currently, Kent serves as chief that continue throughout the day, overseeing the entire dealership’s operations, scientific officer at Amylyx, leading research a Parents Guild Marketplace, which he describes as exciting and fast-paced efforts while evaluating therapeutics in mul- complimentary lunch, children’s games, with new challenges every day. Connor lives tiple neurodegenerative disease indications. and so much more. in Toronto.
www.sac.on.ca 45 Old Boys News
where he specialized in market 2010 2010 analysis and data research. Kris Mackowiak Jorge Saldana Andrew says he is an Andrean received his master’s of is in his fourth year with WYN at heart and gives great credit applied science in mining de Mexico, a 50-year-old family to friendships, sports teams, and engineering from Queen’s business that produces polymers Cadet leadership for giving him University in November and began his PhD in mechanical used mainly in the coatings and the foundation to thrive in the engineering at the University adhesives’ markets. Jorge works business world. of British Columbia in January. in strategic planning, helping to Kris became a piper while at St. Andrew’s and also played direct the company’s long-term bass drum for two years with goals and objectives, as well as 2011 the Senior Pipes & Drums. In analyzing the external market Theo Sotiropoulos- his fourth year, he was elected to identify opportunities and Michalakakos Pipe Major of the Queen’s pipe band. Kris continues to threats that may affect business graduated from the University of pipe while he works and stud- operations or plans. As part of the Toronto in June 2016 and is cur- ies on the West Coast. managing team, he is responsible rently enrolled in the master’s of Kris Mackowiak with Jim McGillivray, for making decisions in the high- philosophy program in engineering Director of Piping est value-added activities such as for sustainable development at the purchasing, production, and University of Cambridge. sales. Jorge adds that his company actively 5th 2011 seeks new trends Anniversary Reunion 2012 Jordan Palmieri in polymers, new Class of 2012 Colin Glen spent part of 2016 financial products, Friday, Sept. 29 deferred his university touring Western and the development plans after graduating Canada with Harley- of strategic suppliers and from St. Andrew’s and Davidson, launching the company’s new customers. moved out west for a gap year. line of motorcycles for The gap year extended a few years the 2017 model year. and ended in August 2016, when Jordan is currently seeking marketing- 2011 he returned to Ontario. While out related employment Andrew Kerr west, Colin briefly worked in hotels opportunities. until he took up carpentry and built custom homes in the Rockies. When he returned to Ontario, he started his own business, focusing mainly on the construction of structural framing, timber framing, and wood-siding dwellings. is a sales representative for Col- liers International with a focus on office leasing in the financial core of Toronto. He specializes in providing exceptional service and strategic real estate solutions for his clients. Prior to joining Colliers he worked for the largest phar- maceutical company in Canada,
46 SPRING 2017 ProfileJake Bullen ’89 Driving innovation in Canada: the common denominator for rising star in corporate law
ake Bullen ’89 looks back on his grade 13 year at St. and beverage, and finance, to navigate the law to adapt to tech- Andrew’s as a watershed time in his development. nology to stay competitive. “I was from Bradford, 25-minutes away, but my par- “Innovation and creativity are core strengths in busi- ents felt the boarding experience would be important ness today, which means leaders need to pay more attention Jfor my year at St. Andrew’s,” Jake recalls. “It was the to protecting and leveraging intellectual property, acquiring launch-pad for the rest of my life.” attractive targets, and navigating regulatory hurdles glob- After graduation, Jake joined classmates at McGill in Mon- ally,” says Jake. “Whether working on my own or with a team, treal. “I studied economics following the my role is to bring everything together, enthusiasm Mr. Myrans instilled in me ensure the client is protected, and make for the subject,” Jake recalls. “After my sure the deal gets done.” boarding year, it was a natural transition After a 2002 secondment to Rogers to university life.” Communication, Jake returned to Cassels His interest in law came later. “As a Brock to work on the Ottawa Senators student, I enjoyed reading, writing, and acquisition. “It was a significant under- negotiating most,” he says. “After earning taking,” he says. “Our client bought the a degree in economics, corporate law felt team and arena, and we dealt with the like the right next step.” NHL, the NHLPA, the City of Ottawa, Before law school, Jake spent a gap the province, and creditors to make it year in Europe and worked for a Bay happen.” Street investment firm. “Working before Ranked at the time as one of Canada’s going back to school helps you experi- top sports lawyers by Who’s Who Legal, ence how different the real world is from Jake had acted for professional ath- academic life,” he recalls. “When it came letes, leading him some years later into time to hit the books again, Western Law pro bono work with Special Olympics was a good fit for an Andrean; through Canada, where he currently serves on the study, sport, and extracurricular, I made board of directors. friendships that I will carry in my per- In the midst of a successful career and sonal and professional network for life.” his charity work, Jake founded a band for Jake is now partner at Cassels Brock charity called “The Right Honourable law firm in Toronto where he chairs the Jake and the High Court of Soul.” He private-equity group and is a member of says, “We have great musicians, mostly the tech and business law groups. Recently named an IFLR lawyers, and we find a reason to play—including performing 1000 Rising Star, Jake now works mostly as a strategic advisor, O Canada at a Raptors game. Like the band name, it’s all quarterbacking transactions, negotiating complex agreements, about having fun.” and unearthing growth opportunities for Canadian companies. Jake and his wife, Kyla McNutt, live in Mineola, Ont., with “When I started practicing law, Canada experienced its first their three pre-teen children. He remains close with many of real tech boom,” says Jake. “This led to a demand from com- his St. Andrew’s classmates. JIM McGILLIVRAY panies in legacy industries, like manufacturing, retail, food
www.sac.on.ca 47 Old Boys News
2013 2013 Peter Godber William White plays offensive line for the Rice University Owls football team and in March and his partner, Taylor Griffin, became received a Scholar Athlete award for having one of the highest overall GPAs parents to daughter Reghan Daune Marie on the team of approximatley 100 players. Peter played in 36 games in his White on September 17, 2016. William first three years, the last 23 as a starter. recently finished playing D1 soccer with the University of Alabama Birmingham and in January played against the Canadian senior men’s national team. He is currently perusing options to continue his playing career with a professional soccer team.
2015 Saad Siddiqui and Kunal Khemani ‘15 have both taken a departure from their education to launch Bonsai, a men’s content-driven retail app. Bonsai algorithmically
Peter Godber receiving an award with two of his teammates curates individual user experiences using over 150+ high-end brands like Bang & Olufsen and Canada Goose, paired with daily editorial content. The first social commerce app of its kind, Bonsai has raised nearly $6M in venture fundraising and employs 30 people at its headquarters in Toronto. Among the growing team are recent SAC graduates and classmates 2013 Andrew Ladouceur, Krisztian Fockter, Liam Smith, and Jacob La Brier. Jay Mackie Bonsai’s international expansion to China was also the subject of a recent Globe and Mail Report on Business entitled “Drake-type Toronto cool may be key to China for this company.” Saad and Kunal’s five-day December launch welcomed over 50,000 people per day to a pop-up located at Dundas Square.
will work at the Time Warner Center in New York City this summer in the corporate tax division. The division is responsible for all aspects of the federal, state, and for- eign income taxes for Time Warner and the businesses it holds, such as HBO, Warner Bros., Turner Broadcasting (CNN, TBS, etc.), Time Magazine, and Sports Illustrated, to name a few. Jay completed his sophomore year at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Mass. He is in the midst of completing a double major in mathematics and economics while also playing on the men’s hockey team. He was a member of the Atlantic Hockey All-Academic team for 2016. Saad Siddiqui (right) and Kunal Khemani
48 SPRING 2017 ProfileAndrew Cronin ’02 From appliance salesman to Republican political operative in 10 years
ndrew Cronin ’02 readily admits he did not take the academic world by storm. “I applied to 30 U.S. colleges after SAC, and then went to the only one that accepted me,” he recounts. That was Colorado College, where he studied historyA and political science. He came out knowing he had a flare for sales, which became his direction, first in construc- tion product sales then managing appliance sales with General Electric. Later, he worked for the PGA Tour and managed sales with the WGC Accenture World Golf Championships the year Tiger Woods’ wife put a golf club through her husband’s car window. “We had so much money riding on Tiger’s presence at the the Trump train very early in the election cycle.” tournament,” he recalls. “When he crashed and burned and “Most of what we do is for the Republican party. We’d do withdrew, well, that’s when I developed my crisis-management work for any party, but unfortunately the nature of the business skills. I had to deal with reporters who were camping on my is that you have to pick a side,” he explains. front lawn!” And did the Trump train stop when he was elected? “It may Through it all, Andrew had an idea that consumed him. It sound cliché, but the day after the election is the first day of blossomed and consumes him still. “I was intrigued by how the re-election campaign,” he says. “In our business there is passionately people discuss politics. I thought I would head always an election, always a crisis, always a reason to raise in that direction,” he recalls. “So in 2013, I started a political money.” advocacy company.” One odd quirk Andrew never expected: as president and American Liberty Group is based in Washington, DC. It owner of the company, he makes a daily point of watching began with Andrew working as a jack-of-all-trades. “I had ESPN and following sports closely. “One of my goals in the no investors, no partners, no backing, no employees,” he business is to shake hands with every employee every week,” says. “But I raised money. I made some good decisions and he says. But we rarely talk business. Ninety percent of the time some bad decisions, but I learned from them all and got my we talk sports. So ESPN is critical to running my business.” start. Good judgment comes from experience, and experience Andrew looks back on his years in Aurora fondly and with a comes from bad judgment. I got a lot of experience running a unique take. Asked where he was raised, he says St. Andrew’s. business!” “My family was in Oakville, and I was a boarder from 1996- Today, American Liberty Group still raises money, but 2002. I left for the U.S. immediately after St. Andrew’s. I still boasts more than 100 employees in four U.S. offices. “We’re say that my home in Canada was St. Andrew’s College.” guns for hire,” he explains. “We’re hired by campaigns, Super Today, Andrew lives in Denver, Co., though, he says, “with PACs, or senators and the like to do what they want to do. I twice-weekly trips to our other offices, sometimes I feel like I have to admit, not long after I started we got lucky and caught live in airports!” JIM McGILLIVRAY
www.sac.on.ca 49 Obituaries
1944 (Michael), and Jock (Anne); sister, 1948 away November 20, 2016 in Peru. John Lowndes Ann (J.D.); 12 grandchildren; and Donald Ashdown He attended St. Andrew’s from eight great grandchildren. He is 1944-48, where he was a Chapel predeceased by his parents Roy, Boy and member of The Review staff, Class of 1912, and Marjorie; and 1st Basketball, Track and Field, and his grandson, Christopher. Swimming. After graduation, Bill attended McGill University and later 1946 joined the U.S. Marine Corps fighting John L. Shortly in the Korean War. During his service, John Lavelle Shortly passed away he was awarded the National December 7, 2016 in Sarasota, Fla. Defence Silver Medal, the Korean He attended St. Andrew’s from Service Medal, and the United 1944-46, where he was a member Nations Medal. Once discharged, of 1st Hockey, 1st Cricket, and 1st he founded an oil-well drilling and Football. He was also secretary of production company. In the late 80s, the Athletic Association and a Bill sold his company and decided John Montgomery Lowndes Corporal in the Cadet Corps. After Donald Edward Ashdown passed to move to his ranch where he and passed away February 24 in graduation, he attended Trinity away November 26, 2016 in his wife, Marie Claire, bred jumping Toronto. He attended St. Andrew’s College at the University of Toronto. Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont. He horses and chased after cattle, from 1939-44, where he was a He spent 40 years as a chartered attended St. Andrew’s from Corriedale sheep, and Labrador Prefect, captain of 1st Rugby, and a accountant with posts in Toronto 1944-48, where he was a member dogs. Most recently, Bill and Marie member of the Swim team and the and Vancouver, and later in the of the Rifle Team and a Corporal Claire were helping to bring music Athletic Association. John was also venture capital business. John was in the Cadet Corps. After to rural school children in Cadet Commanding Officer and a member of the SAC Board of graduation, Donald attended Uruguay. They had performed 16 earned the Best Cadet Award. After Governors from 1969-84. He is Queen’s University earning a free concerts and provided more graduating SAC, John joined the survived by his wife, Sheila; children, bachelor of arts degree with an than 30 musical workshops to army and had a long-standing Tim ’72 (Tara), Ian ’75 (Violet), emphasis on accounting, culturally disadvantaged youth. More career in military service as and Susan (Peter); and eight economics, and industrial than 25 years ago, Bill founded Commanding Officer of the 48th grandchildren. He is predeceased relations. Donald spent the the T.B.D. Tudball Endowment Fund Highlanders of Canada (1964-67); by his father, Orville, Class of 1925. majority of his career as human in memory of his former teacher. H/ADC to the Governors General, resources manager for the Lincoln 1967-76; Commander of the County Board of Education (now Toronto Militia District from the District School Board of 1974-76; “Geriatric Jumper” in Niagara). He was a longtime 1975; and a Honorary Colonel Rotarian and a Paul Harris Fellow. from 1988-92. John earned his He is survived by his children, law degree from Osgoode Hall Robin and Karen (Graeme); and and spent 53 years practicing, first his grandchildren, Hannah and with Ricketts, Farly and Lowndes Samantha. He is predeceased by for 31 years, and later retiring from his wife, Anne, and his son, Brien. his own firm of Lowndes & Harrison in 2006. John is survived by his 1948 wife, Marilyn; children, Parry, William Triest Susan (Alan), Jennifer, Margo William (Bill) Adrien Triest passed
50 SPRING 2017 Over the years, the fund has helped committee of Ford’s board of 1st Football and Cricket. Ken was Prize for chemistry, and the many deserving boys attend SAC. directors. He also served 18 years also Cadet Sergeant and a member Governor General’s Medal (attaining He is survived by his wife, Marie (1988-2006) on SAC’s Board of of drama. After graduation, Ken the highest academic standing). Claire; and his daughters, Barbara, Governors. Al is survived by his wife, attended Queen’s University for After graduation, Albert attended Isabelle, and Malou. Linda; children, Tim (Anna), Debbie pre-medicine. He became a dentist, the University of Toronto, earning (Mike), Andrea (Chris), and Brenda running his own practice until his his degree in commerce and finance 1954 (James); sisters, Wynn and Pam; retirement in December 2015. He and later his MBA. At U of T, he was Albert Matthews nephews Albert Harding ’81, is survived by his wife, Mary; sister, president of the Chinese Students David Harding ’83, and Matt Carol (Gerry); and many nieces Association and volunteered in the McPherson ’89; and 11 grandchil- and nephews. Chinese program at CHIN Radio. dren. He is predeceased by his Aside from being a scholar, he was first wife, Di. 1970 also a talented singer, having won L. Cameron Williams the inaugural Toronto Chinatown 1956 Lloyd Cameron (Cam) Williams Singing Competition in 1982. In Kirk Thomson passed away December 13, 2016 in 1987, Albert returned to Hong Kong William Kirkwood (Kirk) Thomson III Niagara Falls, Ont. He attended St. where he worked for some of the passed away December 8, 2016 in Andrew’s from 1965-70, where he largest broadcasting companies Ottawa, Ont. He attended St. was president of the Debating until his retirement in 2003. Albert Andrew’s from 1954-56, where he Society, advertising and sports is survived by his parents, James and was assistant photography editor editor for The Review, Chapel boy, Nora; and brothers, Joel ’76 and of The Review, a sergeant in the and librarian. He was a member of Kenneth. Cadet Corps, and a member of 1st 1st Cricket, 1st Swim, and the Albert (Al) Edward Matthews passed Swimming and the Rifle team. Kirk Drama Club. Cam won the Isabelle 1999 away January 8 in Venice, Fla. He also won The Hulbig Medal (for Cockshutt Prize in History and the Russell Fraser attended St. Andrew’s from greatest improvement in math- Andrew Armstrong Prize. After Russell James Fraser passed away 1951-54, where he was a scholar, ematics). After graduation, Kirk graduation, Cam attended Trent January 9. He attended St. Andrew’s librarian, Chapel boy, and corporal earned his engineering degree at University earning his degree in from 1992-99 where he was Head in the band. He played 1st Football the University of Toronto and his political science and history. He was of Sifton House, a Macdonald House and 1st Basketball and was a MBA from McGill University. Kirk a partner at the law firm Ruch and Captain, and President of the member of the Debate team and combined his education and love Williams until his retirement in Debating Society. Russell was also literary assistant editor of The of travel to build a career as a 2012. He is survived by his wife, Master Warrant Officer and CSM of Review. Al won the Old Boys Medal management consultant, which Susan, and children, Catherine Sifton House. He was a member of in Mathematics and the Ladies took him to over 100 countries. (Matty) and Blake (Nicole). He is the Track and Field and U16 Football Guild Essay Prize. After graduation, He is survived by his wife, Jane; predeceased by his brother, teams. During his tenure, Russell Al earned his degree in business children, William Kirkwood IV Malcolm ’60. received the Brooks Cup for being engineering from the University of (Taylor) and Stephanie (Dave); sister, the most proficient senior student in Toronto and the London School of Martha; and three grandchildren. 1977 debating, and the Charles Ashton Economics. He spent 35 years with ALBERT LU Medal for English. After graduation, Ford Motor Company, which 1962 Albert Nim Kwok Lu passed away he attended Queen’s University. He included assignments in Canada, Kenneth E. Jefferson November 3, 2016 in Hong Kong. is survived by his mother, Elizabeth; Michigan, and England. He spent Kenneth Edward Jefferson passed He attended St. Andrew’s from step-father, Ian Smart; siblings, Leslie, the last 10 years of his career as away December 6, 2016 in Barrie, 1976-77 where he won the Brooks Jeremy, and Monique; and girlfriend, chief financial officer of Ford of Ont. He attended St. Andrew’s Cup (senior student most proficient Kathleen. He is predeceased by his Canada and sat on the executive from 1957-62 where he played in debating), the H.E. Goodman father, Russell Sr.
www.sac.on.ca 51 Editorial: From the Head of Geography What is Where? Why There? Why Care?
harles F. Gritzner, past president of the National behind people migrating at the provincial level from rural to Council for Geographic Education in the U.S., once urban areas while at the regional level families depart city cores condensed the unique methodology of geography for the suburbs. with three key questions: “What is where? Why Similar online tools expand what is possible when analyzing there? and Why care?” interrelationships or investigating trends over time. Students C Although these questions reflect what has always been my can use GIS to explain the reasons for moving St. Andrew’s personal understanding of geography and the paradigm from College from Toronto to (at the time!) an isolated location which I view the world, it is satisfying to see them now as the outside Aurora and then highlight the site’s current prime GTA descriptive and conceptual basis for the courses that my depart- location today. ment colleagues and I love to teach. They also now introduce the ‘Why care?’ is the final question that underpins the impor- Canadian and World Studies curriculum guidelines for tance of geographic inquiry and the need for a geographic geography from the Ontario Ministry of Education. perspective in our lives. This query was paramount during When we ask these questions about a particular topic or a Global Nomads partnership between one of our grade 9 issue, we also promote four important geographic concepts: geography classes and students attending the American Inter- interrelationships, spatial significance, patterns and trends, and national School in Gaza. geographic perspective. Together, these questions and ways of Over the course of three months, our young Andreans thinking frame geographic studies at St. Andrew’s. shared collaborative maps, discussed timelines of global and What an exciting time to practice geographic thinking! local events, traded short movies of their daily activities both Consider the number of applications on our electronic devices at school and at home, and created personal video questions that have location capabilities. Answering ‘what is where?’ in a that could be viewed at any time regardless of time zones. Even connected world can be done in many ways on our smartphones simple topics like the amount of campus green space become and computers. Google Street View allows us not only to walk more complex when learning together with children whose home the roads and halls of our campus but also to explore the trails of school had been bombed during Middle Eastern conflicts. national parks. Online databases like the CIA World Factbook Students also learn to understand and care about other provide a wealth of current information that was only imagined cultures through the redeveloped SASSAW program that now a generation ago. combines international travel, community service, and a grade The role of geography teachers in providing coordinates 11 geography course credit. Caring as a global community and figures has lessened, but our guidance in helping students remains a positive vision for our world, and geographic ways discern ‘why there?’ among myriad facts has never been more of thinking help us get there. important. For example, patterns and trends at one level of scale Repeated often, both by myself or parroted by friends and may be very different from those at another level of scale. GIS students, is my favourite phrase, “Geography is everything!” (geographic information systems) installed on all school-leased By asking three simple questions, we will all understand why tablet computers allow us to discuss with students the factors that phrase is true. DAVID JOINER
52 SPRING 2017 David Lawrence ‘81 and his son, Cameron Lawrence ‘16 15800 Yonge Street Aurora, Ontario Canada L4G 3H7 www.sac.on.ca
MISSION STATEMENT Dedicated to the development of the complete man, the well-rounded citizen
Luca Zadra ‘17