GISS Graduation 2017

Gulf Islands Secondary School Class of SCHEDULE OF EVENTS.....................pg 3 VALEDICTORIAN PROFILE........................ pg 13 SCHOLARSHIPS.... pg 20

2017

Congratulations to Gulf Islands Secondary School Graduation Class of 2017

Branden Jensson

Geordie Owen

Alandra Lara-MacLeod

Jackson Walde

Liam Wenzel

Congratulations to all the G.I.S.S. Grads, including some of our team! thriftyfoods.com 2

class of 2017

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Order of Events GISS Graduation Ceremony June 17, 2017 Opening Procession - The Graduates of 2017 Oh Canada Traditional Blessing Territorial Acknowledgement Welcome - Master of Ceremonies, Nikita Pardiwala Message from the Board of Education Rob Pingle, Chairperson Presentation of the 2016 Governor General’s Award Lisa Halstead, District Superintendent of Schools Address to the Graduates – Adam Olsen, MLA Presentation of Certificates Valedictory Address – Jennifer Glover Performance Address to the Graduates Ciaran Ayton, Bo Curtis, Navid Niazi Presentation of Certificates Performance

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Class Representative Address Nigel Bisnar, Isabelle Spiess Presentation of Certificates

wednesday june 21, 2017 • gulf islands driftwood

Performance Recessional

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2017 Emily Adam-Oro

Jacob Adelson

Chris Akerman

Emily best remembers Art class and her time spent at lunch eating with a squad of awesome people.

Some of her greatest accomplishments include winning the Halloween costume contest, winning a Golden Paintbrush in Art, and convincing everyone to call her squad “Corner Dwellers.” She plans to return to GISS for a transition year to figure out what she’ll do in the future.

Jake’s greatest memories of GISS are walking the halls and seeing the building for the first time, and all the times when he met many of his friends. He’s proud of the skill set he’s acquired during his time at GISS, giving him a new way of thinking that allows him to overcome future obstacles. The next step is to travel the world before attending university to study engineering.

The highlights of Chris’ GISS years have been hangin’ with friends in the parking lot. He is happy to be graduating and, in the future, will play more hockey and train for a second career as an electrician.

Jorel Anderson Jorel’s best GISS memories are of hanging out with friends and fixing stuff in shop class. After graduation, Jorel will be entering the world of work.

AUSTIN ARCHER Info not available at press time.

Congratulations to the graduating class of 2017!

“In response to those who say to stop dreaming and face reality, I say keep dreaming and make reality.”

- Kristian Kan

Jonah Baker Jonah will take lasting memories with him as he walks out the door of GISS for the last time. He is happy to have passed his courses and is looking forward to future travels.

Teija Baxter For Teija, performing at ArtSpring with her GISPA family, Math 10 with Aidan and Jimmy and dancing almost every day during lunch are treasured memories. She is proud of her four years in GISPA, boating to Pender every day after ballet, and teaching her own dance class. In the future, she’ll travel Europe with friends Leo and Sophie, before attending UBC or UVic.

HAYDEN BARRY Info not available at press time.

TIM BERNINGER Info not available at press time.

R.C.L. LADIES AUXILIARY #92

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class of 2017

Nigel Bisnar

Harrison Bradley

Best GISS memories for Nigel include swim team bus rides, rowing on St.Mary Lake and time spent with the French Immersion class. Among his accomplishments are being part of some awesome productions in 2nd Story Theatre and doing the school’s recycling. Nigel will study International Business at Carleton University, and hopes to one day eat an entire jar of mayonnaise.

Harrison built his best memories in the TASK program and apprenticing in welding at Island Marine Construction. He considers his biggest accomplishment to be earning almost 2000 hours of welding work experience while attending GISS. In the future, he plans to work as a Red Seal welder here in BC.

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Alyssa Bucknum Alyssa will remember her “accidental” naps in SHIFT and Phoenix, and learning woodworking and metal working in Shop.

She is proud to have come from a non-school background and succeeded at GISS. In the future we’ll see Alyssa pursuing Wilderness Survival training and eventually becoming a teacher and teaching kids what she has learned.

benjamin cahill Info not available at press time.

CONGRATULATIONS! to our student teachers Vani Engel & Teija Zenzele-Baxter

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE GRADUATING CLASS OF 2017 “Your imagination is your preview of life’s coming attractions”.

- ALBERT EINSTEIN

Hope Caldwell

Safiya Carroll-Labelle

Hope’s best memories are painting with friends in the art room, Pre-Cal 12 with Mr. Duncan, and Biology class with Ms. Mitchell (all of it).

Her accomplishments include making it through AP Art and learning basic HTML code through SHIFT -- oh, and graduating! Hope’s future plans are simple: to not die.

Safiya’s best memory of high school is of playing music every single day. She is grateful to have been able to co-create and learn alongside so many inspiring people. Performing with GISPA and completing French Immersion are among Safiya’s many achievements. Her future plans include travel, music, creating beauty, and learning and growing in ways that will help serve the world.

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Congratulations 2017 Grads!

Devon Carson

Niamh Casey

Devon will always remember hanging out with friends, and fixing things in Shop class. He is proud to have completed the TASK program and the junior marine search and rescue course.

In September Devon will start the automotive service technician course at Vancouver Island University.

To say that Niamh lives to dance would be an understatement. High points for Niamh at GISS were being part of GISPA and performing in dance shows. She will continue to live a full and exciting life, to feed her creativity and to push the boundaries.

Keep on Swimming!

Rainbow Road

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indoor pool

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class of 2017

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Congratulations on your Graduation GISS class of 2017 We wish you a healthy and productive future.

Andrew Chan

Angus Chan

Andrew will remember bus rides with the senior boys soccer team and going to Calgary with the robotics team. He says his greatest accomplishments are “graduating early, and making it here.” Andrew has big plans for the future: to travel Europe, become a Red Seal electrician and then an Electrical Engineer.

As English is his second language, it was difficult for Angus to get to know people, but he feels his broken-English communication made the whole experience more fun. His greatest achievement is vastly improving his language skills, especially as that was the purpose of his journey to GISS. He plans to further his education in Canada and hopes to attend either Camosun College or UVic.

2017 emily christie Info not available at press time.

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“We do not need magic to change the world, we carry all the power we need inside ourselves already: we have the power to imagine better.”

- JK Rowling

Best Wishes and Congratulations to the graduating class of 2017! from all the staff at Windsor!

bronwynn clarahan Info not available at press time.

Madelaine Cooper Smith Madelaine will remember all her classes with Mr. Ouhammou and Mr. Astill’s Science 9. She is proud of being Mr. Berry’s favourite student and keeping Aidan Haigh alive for 4 years.

Madelaine will attend UVic in the fall and, one day, hopes to watch Nigel eat a whole jar of mayonnaise.

Enjoy your journey through life!

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Sara Jane Cox

Catelyn Creswick

“As cheesy as that sounds,” Sara Jane’s best memories of her 2 years at GISS are the times she got to spend with her friends. She is proud of passing all her courses. In the future, Sara Jane plans to move to Nova Scotia to work and start an apprenticeship in carpentry.

Catelyn’s best memories include the 2016 Italy trip, planning school events, working on GISS productions, and listening to Mr. Ouhammou’s poetry. Her greatest accomplishments include being involved with the SSI community, receiving a scholarship, and getting Mr. Curtis to say she “didn’t do that bad” on a Chem test. She plans to study Health Informatics and nursing at UVic.

Sophie Douglas Sophie will remember hanging out with Teija and Leo, creating music with her friends, performing and Biology 12. Her greatest accomplishments include her three years in GISPA and keeping her grades up while maintaining a job year round. Her future plans include taking some time off to travel with friends before returning to school to study environmental science.

You can take the youth out of the island, but you can’t take the island out of the youth.

Follow the road where it takes you!

*MSRP package Pattison

Congratulations to the Grad Class of 2017

From all the staff at Jim Pattison Subaru

JOSH DUNFORD Info not available at press time.

JPSubaruVictoria.com | 1784 Island Highway, Victoria, BC | (250) 474-2211 Dealer #40319

L iv e w el l . . .

Emrys Duyf

Alec- Rease Ekelund

Emrys’ best high school memory is playing for the GISS soccer teams and she is proud of working at the Hastings House Relais & Chateau during her high school years. Up next, she can be found travelling through South America.

Alec-Rease’s best memories are Art classes, Cafeteria and Shop. He is proud of his work at The Bosun’s Whistle, earning his FoodSafe, and having 5 of his drawings in the GISS hallway; and especially proud of graduating. Alec-Rease plans to continue working at The Bosun’s Whistle and go on training to become a Chef. He hopes to one day have a public exhibition of his art.

L I V E

W E L L

W I T H

DOWNTOWN 250-537-5534 104 LOWER GANGES RD. UPTOWN 250-538-0323 372 LOWER GANGES RD. OPEN MON.-SAT. 9-6 / SUN. & HOLIDAY MON. 11-5 wednesday june 21, 2017 • gulf islands driftwood

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Vani Engel

Sarah Flack

Vani’s best memories are of performing at ArtSpring with GISS and GISPA. He is proud of maturing in his technique and developing his personal dance style along with developing his portfolio for fashion design. In the future we’ll find Vani working in clothing retail, teaching dance at Rainwood and, eventually, studying design and marketing at KPU or Emily Carr.

Sara’s best memories are those times spent with her friends. She counts those deep, connected friendships as some of her greatest accomplishments during her time at GISS. Her future plan is to travel across Europe.

All the Best to the 2017 Graduating Class

Proud to Support Students Entering the Health Care Field

Always remember to RIDE THE WAVES

Grace Fraser

Ian Fraser

Grace’s favourite memories are of the days spent painting in the art room and summer lunches out on the school field. She counts completing AP Art and being accepted into university as her greatest accomplishments during this time. She plans to start her Art History studies at UVic this September and hopes to eventually work as an art consultant.

Ian will remember running around and living a wild life (and it’s only gonna get crazier).

He is proud of being in a movie and happy to have met some fantastic people while he was at GISS. Ian’s future plans include heading off to university with his best friend and climbing his way to the top.

Will Fraser

Jen Glover

Will’s best memories are the time he spent with his friends. He cites being able to eat 17 cans of pork and beans in one sitting as one of his greatest accomplishments. He has no immediate plans for the future and will wait to see what comes his way. #RollingWithTheWaves

Jen’s best memory is of the Italy trip. Her greatest accomplishment is being on the Principal’s List every semester. Jen’s next step in her education is to go to university to study science.

2017 Best of luck to all the 2017 Grads from

GULF ISLANDS WATER TAXI 8

class of 2017

Hannah Grant Hannah will remember classes with Mr. Colleran, Mr. Ouhammou and Louise, and tearing it up on the soccer fields and in the gym.

She was pleased to hear Mr. Duncan say that she has a good sense of humour. Hannah plans to live, learn, and make lots more memories.

“Share your sparkle wherever you are.”

- Dodinsky

gulf islands driftwood • wednesday june 21, 2017

Melanie Gregory-Worsell

Aidan Haigh

Being a part of the Improv Team over her entire high school career is Mel’s best GISS memory.

Being a part of MTAC, winning the Canadian Improv Games National Tournament, and making it through high school are her greatest accomplishments to date. Mel’s plans for the future are to have a good time, create lots of art and to be the change she wants to see in the world.

GISS memories for Aidan include Senior Boys soccer mini bus trips and getting punched in the face by a Brentwood player. Among his accomplishments he lists his Irish accent and impersonation of Mr. Ayton and losing an arm wrestling competition with Mr. Ouhammou.

Aidan plans to see the world.

Sebastian Hermani

JUAN PABLO HERRERA TORREBLANCA

Sebastian will remember Mr. Curtis’ roasts in Chem 11 and 12, the trip to the Mental Health Summit with Leadership and learning math with Mr. Duncan. He lists passing Chem 11 (and hopefully Chem 12) and graduating as his greatest accomplishments. Sebastian plans to work, travel, and eventually study writing at university.

IAN HALL Info not available at press time.

KIARA HAVIXBECK Info not available at press time.

Info not available at press time.

SALT SPRING GARBAGE SERVICES and STAFF would like to congratulate the recipients of our scholarships

HARRISON BRADLEY

CHRIS AKERMAN

WYATT SCHERES

SCOTT SHIELDS

All the best to the graduates of 2017 and to ours: Kaylee Iverson and Sarah Mollin

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“Congratulations! Today is your day.

You’re off to Great Places!

You’re off and away!”

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peter hoskins Info not available at press time.

jaspar irwin Info not available at press time.

Molly James

Taylor Jensen

Molly will remember being here at 2 am, Mr. Curtis’ roasts, and watching Netflix in Math.

Her accomplishments include understanding Chem 12 in a vague sort of way, owning 40 kinds of tea and having all the Harry Potter everything.

Molly’s immediate plans are to spend the next two years completing the IB program at the United World College in Montezuma, New Mexico.

Taylor’s best memories of the GISS years are the Italy trip in 2016 and coffee in Mr. Duncan’s pre-calc class. She is proud to have maintained Honour Roll or Principal’s List standing throughout her high school years. Next fall will see Taylor at SFU studying Criminology on her way to a career in Forensic Science, unless she switches to Medicine!

Kaylee Iverson

Tal Jacobs

Kaylee’s best memories of her GISS years are of meeting and developing a relationship with Nina through art. She is most proud of graduating early and finding her passions in nutrition and writing. In the future Kaylee will study holistic nutrition and, one day, open up her own practice.

Tal made GISS memories lying on the floor in the chair fort with the corner dwellers and travelling to EWC and Quebec with Louise and Mr. O. Accomplishments for Tal are passing the Bio 126 course in her Grade 11 year, and showing up to class . . . some of the time. September will see Tal starting the Health Care Assistant program at Camosun College.

branden jensson Info not available at press time.

ivan ji Info not available at press time.

SALT SPRING ISLAND

RECYCLING DEPOT 349 RAINBOW ROAD

Congratulations to the Graduating Class of 2017

JiHun Kim

Alandra Lara-McLeod

The Whistler trip with his best friends was one of JiHun’s best memories of high school. He says he accomplished learning an OK level of English and found new confidence in learning something at GISS. JiHun’s plans for the future are still “shifting around” so he will enrol in general studies at college and be open to where life takes him.

Memories of the French Immersion trip to Ottawa and Quebec, sitting in the sun at lunch and all her time in the art room stand out for Alandra. She is proud of having completed the French Immersion program and AP Art and of discovering lifelong interests. Alandra will enter the VIU Hairstyling Program in Saanich in February and eventually hopes to go to art school.

Tuesday to Saturday 10 am - 5 pm 10

class of 2017

gulf islands driftwood • wednesday june 21, 2017

2017 Brianne Lavallee “The fireworks begin today.

Each diploma is a lighted match.

Each one of you is a fuse.”

- Edward Koch

Brianne is proud of completing the French Immersion program and volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters, Pass It On Girls, and LMH Extended Care. She contributed to the first GISS Mental Health Summit and completed UBC's Mini Med program. She intends to study as a health care aide at Camosun, then at university to become an RN specializing in pre-natal care or cancer treatment.

Patrick Little

Belen Luttmer

Patrick’s best memories of joining the GISS Robotics Team and designing a parklet in the TASK program roll into his greatest accomplishments: being on the first rookie team in BC to make it to the FIRST Robotics Playoffs and getting second place in the Festival of Architecture Junior Design Competition. He plans to study engineering at Camosun before going to UVic.

Painting in art class, Lit with Mr. Colleran, and Comp Civ with Olivia and Mr. Crouse are among Belen’s most favourite memories. Her greatest accomplishment is definitely completing both AP Art and AP English in the same year.

Next, Belen intends to take a gap year to travel before going to art school in the fall of 2018.

Arielle Middleditch

Sarah Mollin

Arielle best remembers making friends, laughing a lot, and being taught by some exception people.

She is most proud of how good she got at napping on the water taxi. Her future plans involve travelling to India before going to university in Nova Scotia.

Sarah is proud to be finishing high school a year early. In the future she will continue her education and travel.

Claire O’Donnell Claire’s favourite memory of high school is of the Italy trip. Her greatest accomplishment was receiving the Nairn Howe Memorial award.

Her post-graduation plans are to have dinner with her family and then go to the after-grad celebration.

marcus lee Info not available at press time.

toshman mah Info not available at press time.

liam lenihan-wright Info not available at press time.

Jessa Meers Jessa built some great memories on the Europe trip and is proud of her work as Yearbook Editor.

She plans to take a year off to figure out where she wants to go next and what she will do with the rest of her life.

Congratulations to all the Grads and our graduating staff members Emrys Duyf, William Fraser, Owen Quiring

trent O’Donnell Info not available at press time.

wednesday june 21, 2017 • gulf islands driftwood

250-537-2362 • 1-800-661-9255 hastingshouse.com

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~ Established 2006 ~

P/U 2016.

slanders and Friends Meet” “Where I

ratulations to OUR 2017 Grad!

Cong Toshman Mah

yuta okuzono Yuta most enjoyed History classes at GISS. He is proud to have his name on the Principal's List.

Yuta plans to start his post-secondary studies in law or sociology at university in Japan in the fall.

Change year to 2017

selwynn orr Info not available at press time.

Change nam

Approved when complete

“From everyone at The Inn, our admiration, love, and best wishes!” ~ Established 2006 ~

Geordie Owen

Mali Patterson

Geordie’s best times were in the classes with the most quick-witted teachers who would always take a chance to be cheeky. He looks proudly back on his progression in English from Grade 10 when he struggled to even get pen to page, to writing his English 12 final when he only stopped because he ran out of space. Geordie plans to travel before going to UVic to study engineering.

Mali will remember grad campout 2017, #sophiewon and making new friends through the international program. She is proud of her work on her H2O for Ethiopia project and of graduating in the French Immersion program.

Mali plans to travel and volunteer for a year and then study Humanities at UVic.

Congratulations GISS Graduates of 2017!

Great job guys !

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OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 250.537.5551 MONDAY-SATURDAY 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM SUNDAYS 10 AM - 5PM

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class of 2017

gulf islands driftwood • wednesday june 21, 2017

JEN MACLELLAN

} Va l e d ic to r i a n }

jennifer glover

J

en was born in Ontario, and spent the first eight years of her life there. After moving to Salt Spring Island, she first attended Fernwood Elementary where she fell in love with the outdoors and easygoing West Coast lifestyle.

Jen has always enjoyed an affinity for nature and the environment. Her empathy and compassion for animals led her to become both a proud vegan and strong supporter of animal rights. She states: "I am vegan because I never want to support the suffering of another being.

I believe that this is a sentiment that we all can come to agree on."

On the family's hobby farm, she cares for a menagerie of large and small animals, from alpacas to ponies. In addition, she helps manage the family farm stand, while tending to the many chores of a working property. Combining her love of horses and her desire to help others she has also volunteered her time with the Salt Spring Island Therapeutic Riding Association.

Her passion for learning has followed her from Fernwood Elementary, through Salt Spring Island Middle School, to GISS. It was at GISS that her

wednesday june 8, 2016 • gulf islands driftwood

deep interest in science and math truly evolved.

Jen has taken every course in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics that the school offers. She enjoys working through difficult and complex problems in science and math, and passed her knowledge of science on to other students through peer tutoring. In order to stretch her understanding and learn new concepts and ways of problem solving, Jen entered several extra-curricular academic competitions in Math, Chemistry and Physics.

Next year she will further her knowledge as she begins studies towards a Bachelor of Science at the University of Victoria. Jen hopes to ultimately study genetic sciences, recognizing the fundamental ways this emerging field will shape our future. She says, "I am interested in developing a broad understanding of science and mathematics that will facilitate my involvement in exploring the exciting scientific breakthroughs in the field of genetics."

In her free time Jen can be found with her horse, playing the violin, or just enjoying being outdoors.

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Victoria Peck

Cody Pin

Audrey Pomeroy

Qimeisiren

Victoria has good memories of the friends she made and the experiences she has had at GISS. She is most proud of not failing a single class.

Victoria is looking forward to a career in art.

Cody learned to enjoy the whole journey of coming to Canada and to Salt Spring to complete his secondary school studies. He is proud that he has not failed in his studies and is grateful to his teachers, especially Mr. Kerr and Mr. Duncan, for their extra help and support.

Audrey’s best memories were formed in Mr. Mitchell’s Bio 11 class. She is pleased to have been able to start her university studies during the last semester of Grade 12. Audrey is looking forward to opening her own hair styling salon.

Qimei’s best memories of her time at GISS were mostly formed with the swim team. “They are the best people I ever met!” she says. She also found Mr. Berry’s class very interesting. She is most proud of coming to this country and staying to study for three years, and graduating. Qimei plans to stay in Canada to attend university.

2017 Owen Quiring

Signe Roberts

For Owen, his best high school memory would be the PE paint ball field trip. He considers his greatest accomplishment to be eating two entire pizzas before going on to complete fitness testing.

He looks forward to hanging out and spending more time with friends in the future.

Signe has formed fond memories of coming to school each day and being surrounded by so many amazing and happy people. Becoming a wellrounded person and forming a lasting friendship with Isabelle are among the high points of her time at GISS. Signe plans to head off to the East Coast and study Veterinary Medicine to save the lives of those who cannot speak for themselves.

caleb rodstrom Info not available at press time.

“There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind.”

- C.S. Lewis

“Now go, and make interesting mistakes, make amazing mistakes, make glorious and fantastic mistakes. Break rules. Leave the world more interesting for your being here. Make good art.”

- Neil Gaiman

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Congratulations TO ALL

Secondary School Apprenticeship Graduates 2016/2017

CHRIS AKERMAN

SARAH MOLLIN

HARRISON BRADLEY

WYATT SCHERES

ANDREW CHAN

KIARA HAVIXBECK

SCOTT SHIELDS

COLE VIBERG

“Our Community investing in today’s youth... tomorrow’s leaders.”

SCHOOL DISTRICT #64 GULF ISLANDS

wednesday june 21, 2017 • gulf islands driftwood

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Rika Sai

ryo sakamoto

Rika’s favourite GISS memories are travelling to Europe with teachers and students, as well as each and every special school event. She is most proud of improving her English and learning how to be independent in another country. In the future, Rika plans to attend university and find a job that suits her. One day she hopes to have one dog and two cats.

Info not available at press time.

Andrea Sanchez

Kyra Sandberg

Andrea most fondly remembers Mr. Astill’s Science 9 field trip to his farm to see his sheep.

Her greatest accomplishment is being able to successfully grow out her bangs, and her aspiration for the future is to meet Paul Anka.

Kyra counts the 2016 Italy trip, Mr. Crouse’s class Christmas parties, and all of Bio 12 among her best GISS memories. Accomplishments include being one of the Yearbook editors, and earning Honour Roll and Academic Distinction awards.

Her future plans involve studying biomedical physiology at SFU before moving on to med school at UBC to train as a surgeon.

wyatt scheres

Scott Shields

Alicia Shourounis

Olivia Silver

Wyatt's best memories are of blowing up his S10 and getting into trade school. His greatest accomplishment is earning the highest mark in his class at trade school. In the future Wyatt will continue to excel in his trades program and get a bigger toolbox.

Scott will remember meeting the “Mayne Boys” and crushing Donaldson’s couch. In August Scott will be starting the RoadBuilder Foundation Program at Vancouver Island University where he will study and practice to become a Heavy Equipment Operator. At some point he’ll take time out to travel and grow a beard.

Alicia will remember GT’s with chef, the caf salads, meeting extraordinary people and creating lifelong friendships. High on her list of accomplishments are graduating high school a semester early and her makeup transformation.

In the future we’ll find Alicia travelling and going to college with her best friend.

Being surrounded by great people, enjoying time with classmates, and making friends with her teachers are Olivia’s favourite high school memories. Her greatest achievement is becoming Mr. Crouse’s favourite student. Next up, she will take a gap year to travel and volunteer before starting university in the fall of 2018.

Where your future shines!

C

Wishing all the Grads a picture perfect future from all of us at:

APPLE PHOTO & IMAGING

CONGRATULATIONS LIAM AND THE CLASS OF 2017!

250-537-9917

Congratulations TO THE GRAD CLASS OF 2017

MARKUS WENZEL

BBA (Hons), CFP, Financial Consultant Investors Group Financial Services Inc.

250-653-9788

markus.wenzel@investorsgroup.com

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class of 2017

WAY TO GO...YOU DID IT! gulf islands driftwood • wednesday june 21, 2017

Jackie Simpson

melia smith

Hanging out with friends in the SHIFT room is Jackie’s favourite memory of GISS. She considers studying abroad in Japan and earning a place on the Honour Roll as a couple of her greatest achievements. In the future, she plans to attend university and travel around Europe and Asia.

Melia loves to remember when she got Cali to run on all fours like a horse. She says, "I don't know how she does it but it's breathtaking!"

Melia wants to fly li'l planes, get her Spanish citizenship and study animation in Germany.

Isabelle Spiess

Jimmy Steel

Isabelle’s best memories include karaoke in the Multi, becoming best friends with Signe, and having multiple laugh attacks each day. She feels her greatest accomplishment is helping to bring school spirit back through her involvement in successful leadership events. For the future, Isabelle plans to attend the University of Calgary and become a secondary school teacher.

Jimmy will remember all the Senior Boys’ trips and that one time he actually did well on a math test in Mr. Ayton’s class. He is happy to have lived through 2 years of the gauntlet. Jimmy’s aspirations are to live to 18 years of age and to graduate from university.

Congratulations Abigail and Alandra and thanks for being part of our team! .........

118 Lower Ganges Road 250.931.2553

Whatever road you choose ... enjoy the ride!

Shaye Steele

Carly Stunder

The two most memorable days at GISS for Shaye will be the day she arrived and the day she leaves.

She is proud that she did not drop out, stayed sane and was part of the winning team at the Canadian Improv Games. Shaye’s plans for the future include starting a nudist colony in the woods.

Carly will remember the 2016 Italy trip, countless Cafeteria classes with Chef, and making life-long friends. She is proud of never giving up when courses became too hard, completing Chemistry 11, getting certified in CPR and getting her N. Carly will take a gap year before beginning university studies to become a registered nurse, specializing in psychiatric care.

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL GRADS FROM:

Saltspring Auto Supply 106 Jackson Ave., 250-537-5507

Congratulations to Emily Christy connor supina Info not available at press time.

HAMISH supina Info not available at press time.

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Congratulations Christopher on all your accomplishments and your graduation.

Julia Sutherland

Takumi Takano

Julia will remember making close friends, academic success, sports teams, and the talented teachers that have made a huge impact in her life! She is proud of graduating in the French Immersion program and being accepted into one of the top universities in the world. Julia will study at UBC to become a Registered Nurse and also pursue her interests in travel and equestrianism.

Takumi has good memories of every single day at GISS. He says graduating is a really big accomplishment for him. Takumi will work out who he wants to be and what he wants to do, and then work hard to achieve his goals.

~ GRANDPA & GRANDMA

250-537-6070 patrickakerman@telus.net saltspringislandrealestate.com

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Stop in today, and choose from one of the latest name brand smartphones!

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cole viberg Cole plans to continue working as an apprentice plumber at Scott's Plumbing and Heating while attending Camosun College, working toward his Red Seal certification.

Go out there and conquer the world...you can always come home to paradise. isis iffee plee mpl ssiim

Lli

PATRICK AKERMAN

Adam Turner Adam’s best memories were made in the theatre program with Mr. Donaldson and lots of other theatre students, participating in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” He is happy to have experienced a lighter school environment; no stress and fun classes. In the future Adam will do something he loves.

Congratulations Aidan Haigh!

Salt Spring Salt Spring Books Books 104 McPhillips Ave. • 250-537-2812

Never doubt you were born to do great things!

342 Lower Ganges Rd | Salt Spring Island 250-537-8371 18

class of 2017

From mike Fraser, staFF and Family gulf islands driftwood • wednesday june 21, 2017

martin villadsen Info not available at press time.

Jackson Walde

Abigail Walkner

Jackson Wallbank

Jackson’s best memories are the bus trips with Mr. Ayton and the boys, learning how to use a slide rule halfway through a chemistry test and getting to see the GISPA shows for free. He lists his accomplishments as captaining the senior boy’s soccer team and refusing to dab and/or whip for any Instagram account. In the future Jackson plans to go to school, make money, and get the girl.

Abigail will carry good memories of being part of the Pinocchio production and Ms. Arnold’s BC First Nations class. 3 years of Doggie Daycare, lots of volunteering and teaching herself ukulele are some of Abigail’s accomplishments. She plans to move to Vancouver to pursue a career as an actress, and adopt a bunny from the SPCA.

Jackson’s best memories are of the friends and family he’s connected with over his years at GISS. As far as future plans go, Jackson anticipates work and more school. As they say, “There ain’t no rest for the wicked!”

Congratulations, Graduates!

Liam Wenzel Liam’s best high school memory is playing on the Senior Boys Soccer team. His greatest accomplishment is finally figuring out how to divide 1 by 0. In the future, Liam intends to get into engineering.

akari yamazaki Info not available at press time.

May you have clear vision for the future.

Dr. Andrea N. Varju Optometrist

250-537-4356 #108-150 Fulford-Ganges Rd. | www.saltspringeyecare.com

2017 shirley yun Info not available at press time.

“Just don’t give up trying to do what you really want to do.”

- Ella Fitzgerald

Congratulations to our

Adult Grads

The Pernickety Teen is “ALL GROW’D UP!”

Jessi Cullis, Maeve Newton, Mariah Ross MacLean Jessamine Vasquez ........ ...

Love from your first set of “Slave Driving” Bosses

wednesday june 21, 2017 • gulf islands driftwood

Congrats Abby ~ Mom, Oma & Opa

class of 2017

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2017 Scholarships and Bursaries Accommodations Group Scholarship This award is presented to a graduate who will be hot on the trail of a career in hospitality/tourism (including, but not limited to accommodations, food service and transportation). Preference is given to a student who has experience in the visitor and hospitality field through employment or volunteer work.

Andrew Krizan Humanitarian Scholarship This award honours a student pursuing post secondary studies in areas of human service with specific emphasis on children with special needs or adults with physical/ mental challenges.

Apple Festival - Rex Welland Memorial Bursary Created to support students pursuing training in Agriculture or Environmental Science. The vision driving this award is to stimulate an interest in sustainable Agriculture among island youth.

Art off the Fence Arts Bursary Awarded to a deserving Pender Island student who plans to pursue studies in the arts, this bursary is donated by a group of Pender Island artists.

Barbara Richards – Gulf Islands Driftwood Memorial Scholarship This scholarship is awarded to a student who is selected on the basis of an essay describing why the community newspaper is important to the community it serves. The award is named for Barbara Richards, who with husband Frank, published the Driftwood newspaper from 1967 until 1979. A woman of strong principles, she had a profound influence on her family, members of which continue to publish the newspaper today.

Blair Rosser Music Award This award is presented to a graduate who demonstrates a love of music.

Canadian Federation of University Women Bursary These awards are presented to a female student who has exhibited strength in academic subjects and is accepted into a degree-granting program.

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Child Honouring Bursary Awarded to a graduating student intending to pursue a career in Early Childhood Education or similar field, working with children under 5 years of age.

Clark Little Book Prize for Poetry In memory of Clark Little who loved to write poetry, this award has been created by “Salt Spring Writers and Bookstores", with the hopes of inspiring young people to continue writing.

Country Grocer Bursaries Country Grocer Salt Spring contributes to the future of students in the community and acknowledges those who are making every effort to work their way through post-secondary training.

Creative Writing Scholarship Sponsored by “Salt Spring Writers and Bookstores”, this award is presented to a graduate who intends to pursue a career as a writer and be enrolled in creative writing programs either at a college, university or private institute.

Cunliffe Bursary (Pender Islands Lions Club) This award honours graduating students from both Pender Islands who will be pursuing post-secondary education at a college, university or technical institute.

C. U. P. E. Local 788 (G.I. Schools) Memorial Bursaries This award is presented to a student who has demonstrated a high level of interest and achievement in a technical or vocational area, and is planning specialized training in the field of her/his choice.

Derek Crawford Architect Inc. Scholarship for the Visual Arts or Architecture This scholarship supports students pursuing post-secondary education in the fields of Art or Architecture.

Dogwood District Board Authority Awards (18) This scholarship recognizes excellence in fields other than academics. It is awarded to student who has C+ or higher in all grade 12 courses, and has completed four or more senior courses of a career, vocational, or creative nature.

Dr. James Buchan Memorial Scholarship Dr. Buchan bequeathed in his will, scholarships to support GISS grads who attend Medical School. In addition to those, this award is presented to a member of the graduating class pursuing Sciences at college/university.

Eamon MacQueen Memorial Bursary (2 awards) (1) Presented to an individual demonstrating perseverance in overcoming significant life challenges. (2) Awarded to a student demonstrating a keen interest in media arts.

Elizabeth May Scholarship for Civic Engagement Recognizing excellence in the student who has exhibited commitment to effective citizenship through volunteer work to improve our world.

French Immersion Scholarship This scholarship is given to a student with outstanding achievement, ability in the French language, an interest in continuing to study French and who has been a role model for other French Immersion students.

Galiano Lions Club Bursary This award honours a graduating student who is a permanent resident of Galiano Island pursuing post- secondary education.

Gulf Islands Secondary School Solar Scholarship Awarded to a student pursuing postsecondary education in renewable energy or climate change (or related).

This includes Apprenticeship programs, a prescribed or diploma course; college or university.

Gulf Islands Teachers Association Scholarship and Bursary The Gulf Islands Teachers’ Association gives one scholarship and one bursary to full time students at Gulf Islands Secondary School in order to assist with the costs of post-secondary education. One important criterion for the scholarship is academic proficiency and for the bursary, financial need.

gulf islands driftwood • wednesday june 21, 2017

2017 Scholarships and Bursaries Gulf Islands Television Society Scholarship for the Visual Arts Honouring a student who demonstrates a high level of commitment and achievement in their chosen area of the visual arts and who will be pursuing the same at the University or College level, this scholarship is awarded on behalf of the former Gulf Islands Television Society.

Harris & Company Scholarship This scholarship is awarded to a Law 12 student who excels in their course of study.

It is given to a student who expresses an intention to enroll in post-secondary education at a recognized Institute, College or University.

Hedgerow House Fine Arts Scholarship Granted to a deserving student graduating from Gulf Islands Secondary School on their way to study a discipline in the Fine Arts realm.

Hospital Employees Union (Community Services Sector) Bursary Awarded to children of HEU members who intend to pursue post-secondary studies in the area of Social Services.

Hospital Employees Union (Lady Minto and Greenwoods local) Bursary Awarded to an applicant who is a relative of a member of the HEU local 180, is currently graduating from Gulf Islands Secondary School, and has been accepted into a post-secondary institution.

International Program Award Recognizes International students who have visibly reached out to help their peers, or made a significant contribution to the promotion of cultural understanding while at Gulf Islands Secondary School.

Jack Avison Award for Visual Arts Granted to a student demonstrating enthusiasm and dedication to the pursuit of training in the visual arts.

Katsuyori and Kimiko Murakami Memorial Scholarship As a tribute to Katsuyori and Kimiko Murakami, Japanese Canadian pioneer farmers, this scholarship is given to a student who is pursuing post secondary education in agriculture or a related field , who has demonstrated academic proficiency, good citizenship and participation in school and community activities.

Lambda Foundation Jack Hallam Human Rights Award This award was created through the generosity of one DAISSI (Diverse and Inclusive Salt Spring Island) founding members who made great strides to counteract homophobia in our community. In partnership with the Lambda Foundation in Ottawa, this honours a student who has demonstrated community service in a variety of areas.

Ken Rouleau Memorial Award Awarded to a student representing the positive characteristics of community activism and/orchampion of the environment with demonstrated commitment and service in either area.

Lorraine Campbell Award (Saturna Women’s Service Club) Granted to a GISS student whose immediate family has their primary residence on Saturna Island. Student must have completed grade twelve but not required to be a “Dogwood” certificate.

Ladies’ Auxiliary to Branch #92 of the Royal Canadian Legion Marilyn Ryles Memorial Bursaries These awards are presented to graduating students of Gulf Islands Secondary School wishing to attend an institution of higher learning, with preference given to relatives of a veteran.

Lady Minto Hospital Auxiliary Society Scholarships Awarded to graduates who are pursuing training for a career in a healthcare-related field requiring an accredited diploma or degree program (does not include veterinary medicine).

The successful candidate must have good academic standing and community involvement.

Lady Minto Hospital Auxiliary Society Youth Volunteer Bursary (not awarded in 2017) Awarded to a graduate who is pursuing a career in a healthcare-related field requiring an accredited diploma or degree program (does not include veterinary medicine). The successful candidate must have volunteered in a Salt Spring healthcare facility.

Jean Shopland Memorial Scholarship Awarded to a student pursuing postsecondary studies in the area of Fine Arts. wednesday june 21, 2017 • gulf islands driftwood

Mayne Island Lions Fred Greenslade Memorial Award Given to a student who demonstrates both citizenship and scholastic excellence to support their endeavors in post-secondary education. The parents/guardians of the recipient must be permanent residents of Mayne Island.

Mid island Co-Op Bursaries Awarded to a student whose family, or themselves are affiliated members of the Co-op. The main criteria are based on satisfactory academic achievement and financial need.

Mouat’s Trading Company Awards Mouat’s Trading Company is pleased to present the following awards annually to the graduates of Gulf Islands Secondary School: • Gilbert Mouat Memorial Scholarship: Highest standard of citizenship.

• Jane Mouat Memorial Scholarship: Outstanding academic proficiency.

• Richard Toynbee Memorial Scholarship: Post-secondary vocational studies.

• Manson Toynbee Memorial Award: Dedication to humanitarian concerns. class of 2017

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2017 Scholarships and Bursaries Nairn Howe Memorial Scholarship In memory of Nairn Howe, her family proudly presents this award to a student who demonstrates many of the same attributes that Nairn exemplified throughout her life ---- strong communicator with good interpersonal skills, self directed and responsible, able to motivate others, action-oriented, good organizer, and possessing emotional intelligence, integrity, honesty and selflessness.

Neptune Navy Grimmer and Ashton Ross-Smith Memorial Bursary Awarded by the Pender Island Farmer’s Institute to a Pender Island student pursuing post-secondary education in agriculture or a related field, including horticulture, science, business or environmental studies.

Olive Layard Memorial Scholarship Awarded to a GISS graduate pursuing studies in the field of horticulture at an accredited post-secondary institution. Special attention is given to students who have demonstrated citizenship and community involvement.

Pender Island Community Services Society Scholarship The successful applicant must have attended Grades 10, 11 and 12 while a resident of Pender Island and plan to attend a recognized post secondary institution.

Pender Island Realty Bursary for Continuing Education Awarded to a Pender Island student pursuing post-secondary education, where financial assistance is required.

Principal’s Award An extension of the Principal’s List, this award is given to a student who has maintained academic excellence (90% or above) and contributed to the betterment of Gulf Islands Secondary School.

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Richard Vermeulen Memorial Junior Golf Award Awarded to a graduating junior member of the Salt Spring Island Golf & Country Club. To be used for postsecondary education in a Ministry of Education accredited program.

Salt Spring Island Community Arts Council Bursaries The Arts Council awards two bursaries . . . one to a student pursuing studies in the field of visual arts and one to a student dedicated to a career in the performing arts.

Robert S. Unger, D.D.S. Scholarship Awarded to a graduating student from GISS who is intending to study science or medicine at college or university. This scholarship is given in memory of Dr. Robert Unger, a dentist who lived and worked on Salt Spring Island for many years.

Salt Spring Island Farmers Institute Bursary This award is presented to a student entering an institution of higher learning, preferably in a field relating to agriculture, horticulture, or the sciences. Need, as well as ability, is an important factor.

Robin Gibbard Memorial Award for Trades In memory of Robin, this award is granted to a student who is pursuing a career in the trades, particularly with an interest in welding.

Salt Spring Island Garbage Services Scholarships In recognition of the need for skilled trades-people in our community, this award is given to students pursuing a career in the trades.

Royal Canadian Legion (Branch 92) Scholarship This award is presented to a Gulf Islands Secondary School graduate who intends to go on to further education. Preference is given to a close relative of a veteran.

Salt Spring Island Garden Club Bursary This bursary is presented to a student pursuing post-secondary education in the fields of agriculture, horticulture, or landscaping.

Ruby Alton Memorial Scholarships (not awarded in 2017) Awarded to female students who demonstrate significant community involvement and contribution.

Salt Spring Island Painters Guild Scholarship Through the generosity of the Salt Spring Island Painters’ Guild, this award is given to a student showing creativity in drawing or painting in any medium who intends to pursue post secondary study in the fine arts.

Salt Spring Antique and Classic Car Club Scholarships Awarded to students intent on pursuing a continuing passion for automobile mechanics and restoration.

Salt Spring Conservancy Memorial Scholarship Given to a student who will be pursuing Environmental Studies or Biology.

Student must be involved in volunteer activities relating to environmental issues Salt Spring Island Athletics Bursary for Community Sports Honouring a student who has demonstrated a commitment to competitive community sports throughout high school and plans to either continue playing, or pursue sports training at post-secondary.

Salt Spring Island Rotary Club Scholarships Given first to a student demonstrating excellence in the arts, secondly to a student pursuing an education and training in a registered trade and third to a student proving academic excellence.

Salt Spring Island Women’s Institute Bursary The Salt Spring Island Women’s Institute is pleased to support the post- secondary education of a student whose interests and goals are similar to their own. This bursary is presented to a deserving student going on to further studies in agriculture, environment or education.

gulf islands driftwood • wednesday june 21, 2017

2017 Scholarships and Bursaries Salt Spring Lions Club Scholarships The Salt Spring Lions Club is part of an international community-based service organization dedicated to raising funds for those who are less fortunate, or for ‘special project’ funding such as Secondary School Scholarships. The criterion for these scholarships is overall achievement with particular focus on community involvement.

Salt Spring Singers Music Award (not awarded in 2017) Awarded to a student, enrolled in the GISS music program, wishing to pursue music studies (preference to a student of voice) at an accredited post-secondary institution and who demonstrates promise, commitment and an enthusiastic attitude.

Scientific Inquiry Award for Exceptional Effort Awarded to a student demonstrating exceptional effort in Science and Math courses, intending to pursue their studies in Science at university.

Preference given to a female student.

SWOVA’s Leaders in Social Change Bursary Awarded to one male and one female student who have demonstrated leadership in their school community around creating social change, including but not limited to issues of gender, class, sexual orientation, race and ethnicity.

Travis Guedes Leadership Award (S.S.I. Firefighter’s Association) Awarded to a student who has demonstrated leadership, volunteerism, integrity, extracurricular achievement, a positive attitude and strong work ethic.

Twang and Pearl Young Designer Scholarship Awarded to a student intending to pursue a career in design. This may include but are not limited to: fashion, jewelry and accessories, product design and interior design.

Unsung Hero Award This award is to recognize and honour a member of the graduating class of GISS who has demonstrated exceptional service to their class, the school, and/ or the community without expectation of personal gain, in keeping with the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self”.

Steffich Fine Art Award This award is given to a graduating GISS student showing creativity in fine art media, intending to further their studies at the post secondary level.

Steve Thomas Memorial Bursary (S.S.I. Firefighter’s Association) Presented to a student pursuing a trade program or apprenticeship. Preference given to a student interested in firefighting and volunteer service.

Sumner, Stibbards, MacDonald Memorial Bursary Granted to a student who has completed all high school years on Salt Spring Island. Award is NOT based solely on academic record, but focuses also on community involvement and financial need.

Victoria Diocesan Catholic Women’s League Bursary Awarded to children or grandchildren of members of the Catholic Church in the Diocese of Victoria. Based on financial need, academic performance, community and Church involvement.

Waterbird Watch Award Awarded to a student who intends to commit themselves to education or action involving wildlife and habitat, ecology, biology, climate change or zoology. Donated by the Salt Spring Island Waterbird Watch Collective.

wednesday june 21, 2017 • gulf islands driftwood

Waterfront Gallery Arts Bursary The mandate of the Waterfront Gallery Society is to promote excellence in crafts. This bursary is awarded to a creative student who has achieved excellence in music or the visual or theatre arts. This student must have good academic standing and be prepared to enter a field of study in which his or her creativity will be further developed.

West of the Moon/Perrins Family Scholarship Granted to a student pursuing studies in teacher education (early, middle or secondary). Preference given to students participating in peer tutoring or leadership.

Western Communities Foundation Bursary Awarded to a student who intends to seek further training and/or who has overcome adversity (mental/physical disability), financial hardship, family issues; and/or who has displayed outstanding community and/or school spirit as an organizer, participant, or volunteer; and/or who has demonstrated inspirational conduct whether an act of heroism or leadership in a crisis.

Wilco Construction Award for Carpentry Granted to a student who has completed Carpentry Level One training while still in high school and intent upon completing the Red Seal Program.

William and Irene Palmer Memorial Scholarship Awarded to a student who has worked hard towards their goal (academic excellence) and will pursue a career in Agriculture or a related field (veterinary medicine, horticulture, etc.)

class of 2017

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Islanders Serving Islands Since 1972 Over the past six years, our bursary winners, award of distinction winners and our employees and their families have received over $47,000 to assist them with their future careers!

We congratulate them all on their scholastic achievements!

OUR GRADUATING EMPLOYEES

IAN HALL

SEBASTIAN HERMANI

TRENT O’DONNELL

Proudly Investing in our Youth!!

Country Grocer supports their employees and families who commit to attending post-secondary education institutions with a $1000 bursary for each semester of their post-secondary education.

This year, we also honour 15 GISS grads with bursaries between $250 and $1000, plus an annual $2000 Award of Distinction, chosen by the GISS Scholarship Committee.

“Just remember, you can’t climb the ladder of success with your hands in your pockets.”

- SCHWARZENEGGER

ISLANDERS SERVING ISLANDERS SINCE 1972

7AM - 10PM DAILY 24

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gulf islands driftwood • wednesday june 21, 2017