Fall/Winter 2009

Grove News Fall/Winter 2009

Calendar of Events 2009 For details please refer to our school calendar at www.lcs.on.ca, click NEWS

april

JUNE

9

Grove Society Meeting (Lakefield)

9

Grove Society Pot Luck Luncheon

23

Parents’ Reception

17

Grade 8 Graduation Dinner

25

1950s Old Boys Reunion

20

Closing Grade 12 Graduation Dinner

Class Representatives Workshop (Toronto) Toronto Pub Night

25

Grove Golf Tournament

september

9

Trustees’ Meeting (Lakefield)

26

29

Grove Society Annual General Meeting

30

Regatta Day

May 1

Fall Fair & Home to the Grove Reunion

Lakefield College Trustees 2008/09 School Board Chair John Ryder ‘77 Past Chair Jock Fleming ’74 Cindy AtkinsonBarnett David Bignell Walter Blackwell ’56 Marilynn Booth Scott Campbell Victoria Campbell ’09 Andrew Clarke ’85 Stephen Coates ’90 Susan DeNure Peter Dunn ’62 Andrew Durnford ’85 Signy Eaton-Shier

Michael Eatson ’83 Stephanie Edwards Bishop George Elliot Ann Farlow Romina Fontana ’94 Bill Gastle ’68 Janice Green Nicole Groves ’93 Jennifer Gruer Terry Guest* Tim Heeney ‘83 John K. Hepburn ’68 Paul Hickey Tim Hyde ’76 Alan Ingram Warren Jones ’88 Angie Killoran Janet Lafortune Kathleen Leonard Nicholas Lewis ’77

James (Kim) Little ’53 Kevin Makowchik ’03 Kevin Malone ’77 Paul Mason James Matthews ’58 Scott McCain Andrea McConnell John McRae ’70 Val McRae Tracy Morley ’93 Betty Morris William Morris ’70 Christopher Ondaatje Anil Patel ‘93 Karen Persson Travis Price ’85 Tony Pullen ’63 Vicki Pullen Sean Quinn ’82 Kathleen Ramsay

Douglas Rishor ’57 Gretchen Ross John Schumacher Murray Sinclair ‘79 Nancy Smith Scott Smith ’87 Amanda Soder ’98 Manal Stamboulie Losel Tothong ’89 David Thompson Stuart Thompson ’91 Tim Ward ’62 Gordon Webb ’72 Chris White ’90 Jamie White ’79 Terry Windrem HRH Duke of York ’78

Foundation

Bill Morris ’70 Rosemary Phelan Kathleen Ramsay Honorary Chair Donald Ross ’48 Paul Desmarais Jr. ’73 Thomas Ryder ’53 Chair William Wells ’78 Jeffrey Marshall Richard Wernham Emilio Azcarraga Jean ’87 Graham Worsfold HRH Duke of York ’78 Marilynn Booth Bruce Boren ’87 Jonathan Carroll ’87 Brian Carter* Directors in Bold Michael Cooper * Honorary Alumni Stan Dunford Jock Fleming ’74 John K. Hepburn ’68 Linda Leus Angus MacNaughton ’48 Scott McCain Robert McEwen

(Front Cover) L-R: Cutting the Ribbon at the Opening of Hadden Hall, October 18, 2008. L-R: Co-Head students Malik Elharram, Baillie Allen, Susan and David Hadden, His Royal Highness The Duke of York, Jen and David Thompson, Paul Desmarais Jr. ’73, and Jeffrey Marshall. (Opposite) Senior LCS students at the opening of Hadden Hall. Photos by Derek Shin ’10.

A Global Shakeup Malcolm Johnston ’02 It’s a truth born of nature and school board decisions. Students arrive in September to the breathtaking orange sunsets, russet backdrops, and warm breezes of autumn; they leave ten months later to the chirping birds, lengthening days, and blooming flowers of spring.

The long slog in between is spent enduring slush, snow banks, frostbite, and—worst of all—wet socks.

And yet, despite winter’s drawbacks, some of the best experiences at LCS—Ted Pope Days, spirit weeks, snowball fights on the Andy Harris Field, snowboarding at Devil’s Elbow, that first snowfall of the year—happen during that most discussed of seasons.

weather. The dust of construction

to The Grove (p.iii). Jennifer and the

has swirled about the campus

Thompson boys have settled in to

as a slew of new capital projects,

their new home as well, with John

including Hadden Hall (p.12), the

and Matthew discovering the winter

Paul and Hélène Desmarais Family

joys of the campus, from skating on

Outdoor Education Wing, and the

the outdoor rink to tobogganing on

Phelan Family Learning Commons,

Matthews Hill (p.5).

have revitalized the school’s physical appearance. Ground has been broken on Cooper House, the newest addition to Lakefield College School’s residences, and will reach

With time the snow will melt and the socks will dry. The Thompson boys will discover the joys of spring at LCS—the turtle race, foraging

completion by the fall of 2009.

in the woods, and beach volleyball

The arrival of the school’s new

on the first field and another crop

headmaster, David Thompson, has

of LCS graduates will stand, ties in

been another positive part of the

hand, ready to launch into the world

shakeup. While recognizing and

beyond. And before long, September

honouring what makes the school

and its sunsets will roll around,

exceptional, Thompson has brought

welcoming a new group—and

new strengths to the community.

starting the process all over again.

That community, meanwhile, has embraced its new first family.

Over the past few months, the snow

“Wherever we have gone we have

globe that is The Grove in winter

been welcomed so warmly by

has been given a vigorous shake,

parents, alumni, and students,”

and in more respects than just

writes David Thompson in his note

by the water. The tent will go up

As features editor at Toronto’s Post City Magazines, Malcolm interviews and writes about Toronto celebrities and newsmakers while trying to keep his finger on the pulse of what’s happening in the GTA. www.postcitymagazines.com.

Grove News Fall/Winter 2009 | i

ii | Grove News Fall/Winter 2009

Note

A

From the Head of School

David Thompson As I look over the snow that blankets The Grove, it is hard to believe that six short months ago the Thompson family was in the process of unpacking boxes.

In that short period of time we have experienced Expedition Weekend; a wonderful Fall Fair; witnessed LCS athletes in action on the soccer and field hockey pitches, the hockey rink, and in the gyms in the Peterborough area. The Thompson boys have already found the thrill of tobogganing on Matthews Hill and the bruises of the Armstrong rink. Wherever we have gone we have been welcomed so warmly by parents, alumni, and students.

The fall was highlighted with the official opening of Hadden Hall, the Paul and Hélène Desmarais Family Outdoor Education Wing, and The Phelan Family Learning Commons. The generosity of our community with their commitment to both capital improvement and endowment has been extraordinary. We are now in a position to allow our students the opportunity to excel in mind, body, and spirit.

As we celebrate all that has been accomplished and the many opportunities that lie ahead, the school is planning for the economic turmoil. We understand that this will be a challenging time for many of our families, but through these difficult times our mission will continue to be delivered at the highest level, a mission in which all of us believe and support.

In this regard, the Lakefield College School Foundation and school boards have been instrumental in helping the school understand the nature of the crisis and providing support in our planning. What has been clear through this planning process is that there is no quick fix to the current market uncertainties, and the school has never been in a better position to capably weather the storm.

The Grove has one of the lowest attrition rates of any

With these successes behind us, we must now act conservatively and pragmatically with regard to the elements that we can control, primarily spending.

Whenever the school has been called upon to exercise restraint in difficult times it has emerged stronger and better-positioned to surge ahead.

Philosophically, we will be guided by the belief that students come first. It is essential we maintain and enhance the quality of the educational and student experience while ensuring long term financial sustainability of the school. It is our commitment that we will take care of those in The Grove community who have taken care of us for so long.

Norman Smith in his introduction to Lakefield College School: The First 100 Years said: “Looking back in gratitude it is clear the old Lakefield Preparatory School and the more recent Lakefield College School have been seeing the same thing, listening to the same song. We are the lucky ones, in a world we now realize was and is crowded with less lucky ones. We were enabled to feel it was good to be alive.”

It is exciting and unnerving as we are fully immersed in what can only be described as historic times. For those that thought history was the past—it is now! The teachable moments that lie ahead of us are boundless.

But as Windy Smith’s “Happy Return” boat sailed the occasional choppy waters of Katchewanooka and always arrived back to the safety of the docks, so the school will tighten its sails and through the support of faculty, staff, families, and alumni we will be in an excellent position to point to the wind with full sails.

The Grove has always prided itself on being a warm and supportive community. As we move through the next few years I am confident that these essential values will endure and that the school will advance the priorities that have defined Lakefield College School as the Canadian boarding school of choice.

Canadian boarding school in part because of our dedicated staff and faculty. The school has raised more than $45 million over the past seven years and invested over $28 million in facilities. Our endowment, though suffering losses in the last few months, has doubled

(Opposite) Alex Gravel ’09 and Paulina Voltz ’10 enjoying the snow and a game of nordic tag on campus.

over the past five years.

Grove News Fall/Winter 2009 | iii

“We have an outstanding management team, dedicated faculty and staff, an energized student body, and an extremely passionate group of volunteers.”

Well Positioned for Success John Ryder ’77, Chair of the Board Perhaps more so in these turbulent times the school reflects with tremendous gratitude on the generosity and commitment of its many constituencies. It is from this support that the school not only finds itself at the forefront of Canadian independent schools, but is equally fortunate to be in a strong financial

project broke ground in the late fall and promises to be the envy of schools everywhere. Like Hadden Hall, this residence upholds our leadership commitment to responsible environmental stewardship as our second LEED® gold-certified building. Situated between Ondaatje and Matthews Houses, Cooper House will be completed for the opening of the 2009/10 school year.

circumstance. Notwithstanding that, it remains

It would be remiss not to reflect upon the past 12

imperative that as we move forward, we strive to

months with tremendous appreciation for our current

achieve that delicate balance between delivering

and former Heads of School and our management

our mission and values and, also, meet the call for

team. Transition of leadership has been embraced

heightened operational prudence. To that end, on

as an opportunity to build upon the school’s many

behalf of the trustees, I applaud the ongoing efforts of

strengths and maintain the remarkable momentum

Mr. David Thompson, our Head of School, and his team

established over the years. In particular, we have been

as they rise to meet these challenges.

fortunate to benefit from a truly unique approach

Following great anticipation with the official opening in October, I am pleased to report that Hadden Hall,

to transition with a progressive staged hand-off of the reins as David Hadden continues for this year in his role as the C.E.O. of the Lakefield College School

with the Paul and Hélène Family Outdoor Education

Foundation. David Thompson, as our Head of School,

Wing and Phelan Family Learning Commons are

dedicates his focus to the school before assuming

open to the students. These remarkable additions

the additional responsibilities of the foundation next

to our facilities not only compliment the campus

summer.

but profoundly enrich the Lakefield College School experience. They are a truly distinct feature for LCS,

Our school is in strong financial and physical

blending program diversity in a unique setting in the

condition. The progressive governance structure

Kawarthas with progressive educational resources that

implemented a few years ago has proven to be highly

ensure each student receives individualized nurturing

effective in strategically guiding and advancing the

to excel to their own potential.

school. We have an outstanding management team,

The forever changing landscape at Lakefield College

and an extremely passionate group of volunteers. All

School is once again being transformed with the

this makes The Grove a very successful and special

addition of Cooper House. This latest construction

place. Thank you, as always, for your support.

iv | Grove News Fall/Winter 2009

dedicated faculty and staff, an energized student body,

Grove News Fall/Winter 2009 | v

Letters Thank you for the Fall/Winter 2008 and the Spring/

difference between 1939 and 2008! Congratulations

Summer 2008 issues of the Grove News.

on all the new buildings and innovations! I arrived

I was sorry to read of the passing of Mr. [Jack] Matthews, whom I remember as a football coach of the First and Seconds. As a new boy, I watched the older

at Lakefield in the spring of 1939, on the same train as Chief Petty Officer Lee. I was the student and he was the chief of the Cadet Corps.

boys practise. One day Coach Matthews sent out a

I owe a great deal to the kindness of G. Winder Smith

replacement for Witherspoon, but “Spoon” wouldn’t

and the great influence Lakefield School had at a

come in, resulting in a penalty.

critical time in my life! Who would have predicted that

Coach Matthews kicked Spoon out for the game. The unrepentant Spoon took back his kicking tee. Inside,

I would become a criminal lawyer and help organize Ontario Legal Aid?

a battle raged between the fascinations of Spoon’s

I also thank you for the book, Lakefield College School:

rebellion and the tradition of “play up, play up, and

the First 100 Years. I knew the author, Andy Harris ’44.

play the game” and chain of command!

There is a photo on page 93 of Tom Sterling ’49, Bob

Coach Matthews gave Spoon no satisfaction, resuming

Ketchum ’49, Bill Gibson ’48, Duncan MacInnis ’49,

the game, unimpeded by the withdrawal of the kicking

Bill Morris ’43, Richard Delamere ’48—these boys

tee. The quiet lesson, for the impetuous Spoon and

were all contemporaries. There is also a drawing by

conflicted spectator alike, was the middle path of

Hugh Mackenzie ’16 of Grenville Wheeler’s hut. How

owning oneself.

well I remember Grenville (a war guest) and his hut!

Edward Gibson ’63

What a personality! I recall Grenville pretending to be a steam engine! Hugh’s mother was also an artist. I watched her paint the lake.

Thank you for your time and patience in showing me around the grounds of Lakefield School. What a

vi | Grove News Fall/Winter 2009

Andy Lawson ’47

School Highlights

2

Meet The Thompson: The arrival of Lakefield College School’s newest “First Family” marks a new era at The Grove.

4

The Sound of Silence: Role of An Academic Advisor

8

The Grove Society of Lakefield College School: Yes You Can!

10

Did Someone Say a GYM? 2008 Marks the Year Lakefield College School Opens its Student Recreation Centre

12

Growing The Grove Family One Student at a Time

20

The Footprints We Leave Behind

22

New Bursary Launched in Honour of David and Sue

24

Farewell to the Haddens—Retirement Dinner

26

Patrick McManus ‘88: From the Bryan Jones Theatre to the Shaw Festival

28

Susie Pearce ’98—Going for Gold North of 60

30

Celebrating Leadership—Paul Desmarais Jr. ’73: 2008 Jeffrey Page Rein Wadsworth Award Recipient

32

Class News (Weddings, Births)

33

In Our Memories

38

“Sir Timothy” A Class Act

39

Editor: Tracey Blodgett; Layout & Design and Copy Editor: Christine Vogel; Contributing Editor: Malcolm Johnston ‘02; Editorial Committee: Heather Avery, Lisa Clarke, Richard Johnston, Richard Life, Sarah McMahon, Tom Milburn, and David Thompson.

Contributing Photographer: Simon Spivey. Please address correspondence to the Communications and Constituent Relations Office: Lakefield College School, Lakefield, ON, K0L 2H0 705.652.3324 tblodgett@lcs.on.ca (Above) LCS Students and staff take-off from the starting line in the Prince Andrew Run, Fall Fair 2008

School Highlights Round Square Conference

Passchendaele

In September, five LCS students from the Class of

Writer/actor/director/producer Paul Gross (opposite/

2009—Alison Cameron, Jamie Johnson, Suzy Lee, Claire

top right with students Zoe Edwards ’09, John McDonald

Lenouvel, and Danielle Lewis—along with Victoria

’09, and James McDonald ’11) brought his new movie

Tenthorey ’10 and Kate Seo ’10 (opposite/top left) were

Passchendaele to LCS for a private viewing. The movie,

accompanied by Gerry and Sandra Bird to the annual

which opened at the Toronto International Film Festival,

Round Square Conference in Vancouver which included

tells the story of the First World War battle in which

a pre-conference tour—Whales, Wildlife and West Coast

thousands of Canadians died in horrific conditions,

Culture—on Vancouver Island.

but more than that, it speaks of how war affects people,

Entitled “Environmental Sustainability—Local to

families, and communities far from the front lines.

Global,” the conference included speakers Adriane Carr,

Paul Gross and the movie’s executive producer Niv

Deputy Leader of the Green Party of Canada; Brian

Fichman answered students’ questions regarding the

Keating of the Calgary Zoo and Discovery Channel fame;

making of the film. Mr. Gross explained that the movie

as well as noted author and educator, Thomas Homer

was dedicated to—and partly based on stories told to him

Dixon.

by—his grandfather who fought at Passchendaele. The

The final day of the conference featured an impassioned address by Craig Kielburger, co-founder of Me to We

day was made possible by Donald Ross ’48 who arranged the special viewing with Mr. Gross.

(formerly Leaders Today) and the associated charity, Free the Children. LCS students and staff left Vancouver with memories, new friends, and a commitment to making environmental sustainability part of their everyday life and that of the school community as well.

Jack Matthews Fellowship

Our Country’s Good The fall play, Our Country’s Good, by Timberlake Wertenbaker, depicted the relationships of convicts and officers in the early years of Australia as a penal colony. It is considered a modern classic, but is seldom performed on the high school stage.

Following the passing of former LCS headmaster Jack

The cast and crew of 45 students (opposite/middle)

Matthews, a fellowship was created to honour the

were lead by the guiding hand of Ms. Alison McElwain.

contributions that Jack made to Lakefield College School,

Students and parents were amazed with the costumes

Trent University, and the Canadian Canoe Museum.

and technical staging, laughed at the comic characters,

The first recipient, Michael P. Robinson, C.M., a renowned anthropologist, lawyer, and writer, travelled from Calgary to Peterborough to present at The Canadian

were silenced by scenes of death and torture, and enjoyed the love stories that unfolded. When the evening was over, they rose as one for a standing ovation.

Canoe Museum, Trent University, and LCS where he spoke about his life growing up in British Columbia at St. George’s School.

Girls’ Basketball Champs The LCS Girls’ Basketball team (opposite/bottom)won the CISAA Division II Senior Girls’ Basketball Championship

Michael explained that competition, politics, community,

Tournament in November. The championship game was

friendships, appreciation for the arts, service, and

a hard fought battle but LCS’s impeccable defense and

the desire to spark change are all rooted in his early

ability to score on the fast break proved to be too much

education. He encouraged students to ask themselves

for Holy Trinity as our girls went on to win 48-39. It was

about what legacy their LCS education will leave in their

a strong team effort but special mention should go to the

hearts, whether it be environmentalism, human spirit,

offense—Emily Keating ’10 and Kate Carroll ’10—with

community, or individuality. At the conclusion of the

help from Katie Sullivan ’11, Abby Allen ’12 and Dana

talk, Michael joined Outdoor Education students for

Cooper ’10. With the wins, the girls ended their season a

more reflections and a canoe tour of the Otonabee River,

perfect 8-0.

travelling to Trent University.

2 | Grove News Fall/Winter 2009

Grove News Fall/Winter 2009 | 3

Meet the Thompsons

The arrival of Lakefield College School’s newest “First Family” marks a new era at The Grove.

4 | Grove News Fall/Winter 2009

On a beautiful morning last July, a behemoth 18-wheel

their bus into town. But John has already made it very

moving truck parked beside the A.W. Mackenzie

clear that when he is old enough to attend LCS, he

Chapel. Staff flocked to the windows to watch as the

will be moving into Cooper House, which is currently

door rolled up marking a new era at The Grove: the

under construction, and will soon be the new home of

arrival of the Thompsons, Lakefield College School’s

Head of House Garret Hart and 26 boys.

eighth first family.

“The boys are very happy and independent here,”

Soon, a bike rack outside the Head’s house held two

Jennifer continues. “It has been such a smooth

boys’ bicycles that were rarely locked up because John

transition for them.” In fact, the boys only wanted to

and Matthew Thompson were enjoying the sunshine

know where the bus stop was to town, what was beyond

and exploring campus. “They love the outdoors,”

“the bridge” in the village, and when it would snow so

explains Jennifer Thompson. “We had to buy them

they could toboggan down Matthews Hill. Making fast

watches when we moved to Lakefield because they

friends with the other children on campus, Mr. Hart

were having too much fun and never coming home;

and his dog Tipper, Mr. Hagg (who gave them roller

then they kept setting the watches back an hour so they

skis so that they get in shape for the Nordic ski season),

would have more time outside!”

and Mr. Armstrong (who gave them tips on using the

Even though the summer ended too soon for John and Matthew, living at Lakefield College School has been “awesome.” Matthew is attending Grade 2, and John is in Grade 4, at St. Paul’s School. As yellow school busses bring day students to LCS, the “campus kids” wait for

outdoor shinny rink), they look forward each day to enjoying their huge 315-acre backyard and eating in the “café” (Winder Smith Dining Hall) where they can (Opposite) David and Jen Thompson enjoy a fall soccer match.

(Below) John and Matthew “Matty” Thompson in front of their new home.

Grove News Fall/Winter 2009 | 5

occasionally have french fries and loads of ketchup.

While skating on their second date, David began to

They also had the opportunity to go on Mr. O’Grady’s

reveal his passions for Lakefield College School. “His

Outdoor Education class “trust walk,” and even went

commitments to LCS were clear from the beginning,”

with Mr. Bird’s biology class to the waterfront catching

says Jennifer with a laugh, “Lakefield was an important

a “tiger shark” (perch), which now lives in the biology

part of Dave.” He had kept close connections with LCS

lab aquarium.

as a board member and trustee after leaving to run the

For David and Jennifer, the move to Lakefield College School was just as exciting, but perhaps for different reasons. The couple’s history with The Grove began in the 1970s, when David was a master in Memorial House and Jennifer was in her last years at St. Clement’s School. With the draw of a royal student living at the school in 1977, Jennifer arrived with busloads of girls who were keen to come to school dances at LCS; but David, who was more focused on getting his students off to class, coaching football and hockey, and paddling, missed the opportunity to meet her at that time.

Instead, it was as teachers working at Crescent School in Toronto where their romance blossomed. Jennifer stresses that although David’s taste in first date movies—The Santa Clause with Tim Allen—had the potential to end the relationship before it began, when he proposed to her while on a kayaking trip in Tofino, British Columbia, she knew that he was the one.

6 | Grove News Fall/Winter 2009

Outdoor Education Centre for Upper Canada College.

So when the couple announced their engagement, David and Susan Hadden hosted a party for them. “I remember coming up to Lakefield and being taken aback by the joy and intensity of the room,” recalls Jennifer. “The Milligans, Chellews, Ingrams, and Hodgetts were there … everyone was just so excited that Dave was finally getting married!” In fact, David Hodgetts, who along with David Thompson founded the Outdoor Education curriculum at LCS in the 1970s, is their son John’s godfather.

Toronto life for the Thompsons was busily filled with new initiatives and family activities. In the past seven years, David had the opportunity to work as the founding principal of Greenwood College School, and Jennifer returned to teach at St. Clement’s School.

The boys attended Montcrest School along with the children of many LCS alumni. But in the summer of 2007 everything changed for the Thompsons with the announcement of David Hadden’s retirement.

“After we decided to apply, Jen began reading the Grove

the former head of the junior school at LCS contacted

News and checking the eNews all the time, finding out

us from the UK.” Jennifer made a scrapbook of all the

what was going on at Lakefield. She was very interested

notes and emails for David in order to capture the

in following student activities,” says David. Entering

excitement of those moments. “We decorated the house

into the interview process was a huge commitment

in red, green, and blue streamers when we told the

the family was excited to make. “We did a walk-around

boys. It was a special moment; a night that we will all

with students JJ Maxwell and Laura Wilson, and we

remember!” she says.

were impressed with their enthusiasm for the school.

The Thompson family have already enjoyed many

“We had a final interview for the position of Head of

firsts this year: their first Christmas at The Grove, their

School on a Saturday morning with the whole Search

first hockey game on the shinny rink, and definitely

Committee,” recalls David. “Jennifer was involved in

their first toboggan run down Matthews Hill. Yet for

the interview process. After the interview we travelled

David, his career has come full circle and he feels

up to our cottage for the rest of the weekend, knowing

like he has come home. Jennifer is enjoying life in the

that we would receive a “yes” or “no” answer early the

country and getting to know the extended Lakefield

next week.”

community; she also hopes to pursue volunteer

The Thompsons received a phone call from John Ryder ’77 and Jock Fleming ’74, at 9:30 in the evening, wanting to come over right away. “I was in my pajamas,” David laughs. “We didn’t know if they were letting us down easy or what was up. They arrived soon after the call and burst through our door, without

opportunities at the boys’ school and in Peterborough.

As the years progress, it will be wonderful to witness this first family of The Grove grow into life on the shore of Lake Katchewanooka—along with their 365 new siblings!

LISA CLARKE

even taking off their coats, before asking if I wanted to be the new Head of School.” The congratulations came quickly from people David had taught, worked with, or served with as a trustee. “Even Richard Hales,

(Opposite) David Thompson as a teacher at The Grove during the 1970s. (Below)L-R David, Matty (front), John (back), and Jennifer Thompson with students, Dolly Peel ’09 and Pat O’Brien ’09, enjoying a sleighride at Northcote campus.

Grove News Fall/Winter 2009 | 7

The Sound of Silence: Role of an Academic Advisor It was Earth Day 2008, and as had so often been the

therapists, but we can learn to listen and support, which

case, my advisor group resorted to silly games and fits

is often what students need most.

of uncontrollable laughter. Erica Thompson ’08 (above, second from left) explained that this particular game required all of us to stand in a line, spread our arms and run as fast as we could towards an imaginary finish line, screaming at the top of our lungs. In a few short months, these screaming birds would be standing under a tent receiving their graduation ties. They would

My advisor group consisted of ten students that had been together since Grade 7. At the start of their Grade 9 year, I assumed responsibility for “enabling” them towards graduation. It did not take long for me to discover that our relationship would be based on food, fun, and friendship.

be leaving the nest and I, their advisor, would be proud

Over the years, we had numerous dinners together at

as punch of each one of them.

my home. Memories from these times together are

The role of an academic advisor is a complex one. We are called upon to wear many hats—some formal and disciplinarian, others relaxed and friendly, and still others (and my personal favourite) silly. But all require listening. (When your birth order finds you in the middle of a family with two older siblings and twin younger sisters, you learn to listen a lot.) Advisors may not have doctorates in psychiatry or training as 8 | Grove News Fall/Winter 2009

some of the fondest I have as an advisor. The snow rugby, barefoot soccer, and road hockey games that we would play after dinner did more for their morale than I even appreciated at the time. The dinners gave students who might not otherwise cross paths the chance to get to know each other. I loved listening to how they were interacting with each other as much as hearing what they were saying.

“I really do think that the most important thing you did for me while I was at Lakefield was simply being there whenever I needed someone to talk to and when I needed someone to be on my side ...”

(Opposite) L-R: Bruce McMahon, Chance (the dog), Erica Thompson, Kathleen Hughes, Kaycee Morrison, Monica Farlow, Sarah McLean, Melisa Zubrikas, Miles Rees Spear, Rakesh

“Although not everyone in the advisor group hung

ear to bend and a partner to celebrate with. Monica

out during the regular school day, when we met as a

Farlow ’08, writing from King’s College, had a similar

group there was always something to talk and laugh

view: “To have someone to talk to during a rough day,

about,” recalls advisee Melissa Zubrickas ’08, who

or a great day, or any kind of day, is what makes a

is now in Australia. “The dinners at the McMahons,

student happy.”

always having snacks at meetings, and having a t-shirt with McMahon dressed as a nun on it are some of my fondest memories.” (Please ignore the nun reference— sometimes advising can be stressful!)

So often we feel that by not doing something we have not done anything. I learned over the years of advising that nothing can sometimes be the best something an advisor can do. We think that our role as advisor is to

I also asked Erica, who is now in her first year at

guide and help students through difficult times, and

university, to comment on the role of the advisor. “I

often it is just that. However, it is equally important

really do think that the most important thing you did

to listen and do so in a way that you truly hear what is

for me while I was at Lakefield was simply being there

not being said. The sound of silence is sometimes more

whenever I needed someone to talk to and when I

valuable than any comment or advice.

needed someone to be on my side,” she wrote. “After a bad day or a bad test, I always felt I could go to you for support and encouragement.” Erica almost always knew the answers to her own questions; she did not need me to call in the cavalry, but she did need an

My advisees were a grand group and I was very fortunate to have been able to spend time with them. I wish them all the best as they spread their wings.

BRUCE MCMAHON Grove News Fall/Winter 2009 | 9

The Grove Society of Lakefield College School

Yes You Can

The Grove Society is based on a unique model.

the youngest student to compete (or just have a blast!)

Unlike almost all other school/parent associations, it

on Andy’s favourite playing field…

combines the goals and interests of alumni, current parents, past parents, grads, faculty, staff—even friends of LCS. Everyone is represented, everyone is connected, everyone is welcome to help “enrich the welfare of the school and its students while fostering a strong, supportive and welcoming community.”

Including you.

We host luncheons and presentations. They are always friendly and often out of the ordinary: a slide show from a recent service project; information about university admission or drugs and alcohol; guest speakers such as Dr. Michael Thompson, author of Raising Cain: Protecting the Emotional Life of Boys; and a representative from the Canadian Hearing Society

This mandate is not easily achieved, however, as our

who talked about the risk the iPod generation faces

members hail from towns and cities all over the world.

of going deaf. The Christmas Luncheon is an annual

To gain a sense of connection, we meet at university

highlight where every Grove Society member who is

pub nights, the British alumni dinner in London,

able to make the journey enjoys a warm “Grovey” get

parent receptions in various cities, fundraisers and

together—and lots of cheer.

celebrations, sporting and cultural events—and, of course, we visit the weekly eNews, which opens a window into school life that is the next best thing to being there.

But you may be wondering how to get involved in all of this—or if your involvement is even needed. They are fair questions because LCS is, indeed, a well-run ship. The Office of Communications and Constituent

But what exactly does The Grove Society do? Glad you

Relations—specifically, Richard Johnston and

asked—we do quite a bit. We raise funds for student

Tracey Blodgett—liaise with the Grove Society as we

bursaries through events and activities such as Fall

organize functions and activities. Tracey is the Staff

Fair, the Golf Tournament, and the Replay Shop. We

Representative on the Grove Society Executive, and she

give various school departments gifts that enrich the

works closely with other members of the Executive and

LCS learning experience such as: instruments for the

all the volunteers so that we can successfully run each

music department; frames for art exhibits; authentic

of the numerous events mentioned above.

WWI and WWII uniforms for student reenactments; sponsorship of student stage and writing productions; a Nordic ski trail groomer; and even a maple syrup evaporator. In May we assist with Regatta Day, which brings alumni, faculty, students, and parents home to The Grove. And in June the annual Andy Harris Golf Tournament gets everyone from the oldest Old Boy to

10 | Grove News Fall/Winter 2009

Your involvement is greatly needed—specifically in organizing and assisting with the events; hosting alumni and parent special events in different cities; hosting boarders on breaks; and making welcome calls to new families. If you have some new ideas for existing events—or you want to add a brand new one—consider

volunteering, or better still, joining the Grove Society

Lakefield College School. But it is even more fun when

executive. That is where the ideas come to life.

it becomes a part of you.

Grove Society Executive 2008/09

The executive serves as an umbrella organization to facilitate events and activities on the Grove Society’s behalf. This year the executive’s 15 volunteer members include alumni, past parents, current parents, current students, staff, and faculty. Every interest—and age group!—is represented. The Executive meets once a month in Toronto to hear updates from the representatives of each group, to listen to each voice, and to respond to proposals. At this time of year, succession planning has begun. If you would like to become part of the executive, just let us know—but soon! The executive for next year will be decided by the end of May at our Annual General Meeting—an event you do not want to miss.

LCS is a unique and well-run school. There are

President Vicki Pullen Past President Stuart Thompson ‘91

Chair Parent Communications/Outreach Stephanie Edwards

Secretary Riona Petticrew ‘03

Members-at-large Geordie Dalglish ‘89 Scott Smith ‘87 Ingrid Ross

Treasurer John Stelzer ‘00

Management Representative Richard Johnston

Chair On/Near Campus Julie Campbell

Staff Representative Tracey Blodgett

Chair Alumni Communications/Outreach Kevin Makowchik ‘03

Faculty Representative Lorraine Brown Student Representatives Amber Halcovitch ‘09 Kyla Murphy ‘09

countless opportunities to get involved and your help is needed. Just contact Tracey Blodgett, or any member of the executive. You’re part of the Grove Society of

(Below) The Grove Society Ties That Bind Gala Committee organized and hosted the gala as a fundraiser for the new student recereation centre.

Grove News Fall/Winter 2009 | 11

Did Someone Say a

Gym?

2008 Marks the Year Lakefield nnmn mn College School Opens its Student Recreation Centre On Saturday, October 18, more than 700 students and guests gathered at Lakefield College School for the dedication and opening of its long-awaited student recreation centre.

This historic occasion saw the new building named Hadden Hall after David and Susan Hadden and their 23-year career at LCS. The east and west wings of the hall were named the Paul and Hélène Desmarais Family Outdoor Education Wing and Emilio Azcarraga Jean Fitness Wing in recognition of their ongoing generosity.

To resounding cheers and vigorous applause, His Royal Highness The Duke of York cut the ribbon to open the doors to the $13.8M project (pictured on front cover). It was a magical moment punctuated by the words of thanks to the donors, architect, and contractors who made the project a reality. Board Chair John Ryder ’77, Foundation Chair Jeffrey Marshall, Head of School David Thompson, Honorary Foundation Chair Paul Desmarais Jr. ’73, David Hadden, and The Duke of York ’78 all spoke of the positive impact that the building will have on our students. Following the blessing by Father Glenn Empey, the guests were invited to tour the new facilities and enjoy lunch in the Upper Commons of Hadden Hall.

12 | Grove News Fall/Winter 2009

Grove News Fall/Winter 2009 | 13

14 | Grove News Fall/Winter 2009

John Ryder, in his remarks, stated, “It is never easy to ‘hide a gymnasium’ but the architects—Diamond + Schmitt—have done a brilliant job in the way the building hugs the landscape and blends in with the existing school architecture. He continued:

“The large expanse of glass, the timber ceilings, front veranda, lounge areas, fireplaces and the indoor climbing wall all reflect the essence of LCS and our interest in setting this building apart from other independent school recreation centres. I know you will be amazed by the openness of the space, the way the sunlight streams inside, and the fabulous views of the outdoors.”

On the evening of October 18, a reception was held in Hadden Hall, followed by dinner for staff and trustees in the newly named McEwen Gymnasium. At the dinner, His Royal Highness recognized faculty and staff for the important contributions they make to the lives of the students. Current parents, Rob and Cheryl McEwen (below) expressed their joy in giving to Lakefield College School and the special place it has in their hearts.

Grove News Fall/Winter 2009 | 15

This building is the school’s first LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) gold-certified building—one of only three such buildings in the Kawartha area. The building was built to higher energy and environmental standards than required by code.

Unique features of the 37,000 square foot Hadden Hall include: State-of-the-art heating and air conditioning by a ground source system k consisting of 50 boreholes, 300 feet deep, under the Andy Harris Field lk Forest stewardship certified wood floors and ceilings

Water efficient landscaping

k k k

Heat reclamation and building automation systems including occupancy and daylight sensors

k k

Low energy CFC lighting

Two student commons areas with fireplaces

k k k k k

Accessibility to all floors via an elevator

k

Low volatile paints and finishes

Sound absorbing concrete blocks in the gymnasium A 35 foot high indoor rock climbing wall and 15 foot bouldering wall A dance studio and fitness centre

16 | Grove News Fall/Winter 2009

18 | Grove News Fall/Winter 2009

Other features include: NN

A two-floor outdoor education wing with three classrooms, preparation rooms, and storage (pictured opposite/bottom—left end of building)

NN

Retractable exterior blinds to filter late afternoon summer sun

NN

Bleacher seating for 250

NN

Enclosed courtyard which will serve as an outdoor classroom and social space

NN

Large west-facing windows providing spectacular views of the Bob Armstrong Rink and Lake Katchewanooka

NN

Cottage-style veranda overlooking the surrounding landscape

In addition to the new building, the school also renovated the existing library to accommodate the Phelan Family Learning Commons, providing a variety of learning services and resources including private study and tutoring areas and meeting spaces for academic guidance (pictured opposite/top).

October 18, 2008—”the day LCS opened its gym”—will go down in the annals of the school as a splendid day, an historic occasion, and a remarkable celebration of the school, its students, and its community.

We now look to the future—and the fall of 2009—when, thanks to the generosity of current parent Michael Cooper, Lakefield College School will open its second LEED gold-certified building, Cooper House, a new male residence for 26 students with accommodations for a Head of House and Assistant Head of House.

Grove News Fall/Winter 2009 | 19

Growing The Grove Family One Student at a Time As we all know, enrolling at Lakefield College School is

school from the 70s had only been improved upon,” he

only the beginning of our lives as members of The Grove

explains. His wife, Stephanie, agrees saying, “Lakefield

family. As students, we build close-knit and often lifelong

is synonymous with family. It was like we were long lost

relationships with our housemates, teammates, class-

friends coming home. We instinctively knew Madi would

mates, and teachers. As parents, we connect with other

be with compassionate, caring people … like family ...

families who share in their commitment and pride in

and we were right.” In fact, there are currently 17 alumni

offering our children a unique high school experience. As

families enrolled at the school.

alumni, we nurture old friendships that last long after we leave the shore of Lake Katchewanooka.

A recent survey of LCS families indicated that 82% became aware of Lakefield College School through word-

While some of us followed the footsteps of a family

of-mouth. They hear about the school through peers,

member, or family friend, who carved their own niche at

family friends, current students and parents, alumni,

The Grove, it was after making our home at the school

and past parents. “In fact,” relays Barbara Rutherford,

that we began our own personal journeys. We grew as

Assistant Director of Admissions, “there have been five

individuals in a community that taught us about trust,

or six times that we have had applications from fami-

learning, caring, and sharing. There is an ownership

lies who learned about LCS by sitting next to one of our

in the LCS community of this strong sense of family; a

international students on a plane. Parents are impressed

genuine engagement of adults and adolescents united in

with how current students speak about their school with

their pride of self and the school. This kind of pride is in-

depth and emotion.” Recently, a prospective student

fectious. The community grows when—as staff, students,

from Africa forwarded his application based on the ex-

parents, and alumni—we speak passionately about our

periences he had with LCS students on a Round Square

involvement with LCS, .

service project. There is a passion and enthusiasm about LCS that is contagious, and the stories of an independent

As an alumnus and parent, Alan Redfern ’78 encouraged

school in the heart of the Kawarthas travel far and wide.

his daughter, Madi, to enroll at LCS for her final year of

The Admissions staff fields inquiries every day from

high school. “My feeling was that the strengths of the

prospective families, but it is the students who have been

20 | Grove News Fall/Winter 2009

pointed in our direction by a member of the LCS com-

leadership to The Grove, you have all made this unique

munity who most often complete their applications and

educational experience available to those students.

enroll in the school. The reason is simple: they sense the pride of the LCS family, and they want to be a part of this

As you reach out into the global community, your LCS

special community.

experience often remains one of your fondest memories.

As spokespeople for this unique educational experi-

Even for the 96 siblings who currently attend the school,

ence, you share the stories of citizenship, individuality,

LCS offers a place for personal growth and indepen-

learning, and trust. It is through the generosity of your

dence. Robin Young, a mother of four graduates—Greg

recommendations that the Lakefield College School ex-

’93, Cait ’96, AJ ’99, and Andrew Sainsbury ’02—re-

perience continues to welcome more and more potential

flects, “I think it’s a great tribute to LCS that they could

students home to The Grove. When you introduce a new

have accommodated four such different children with

student to the school, share a cup of tea with a prospec-

such success. I often say that I couldn’t have raised my

tive family, or retell stories of “way back when I was in

children without the help of staff at Lakefield.” Another

school …,” this word-of-mouth passion builds the bricks

mother of four LCS students, Susan Casson, agrees. “The

of our future.

fact that the school was the right fit for each one of my

BRITT GULLICK

children—David ’03, Andrew ’07, Matthew ’09, and Michael Casson ’11—who are all individuals, very distinct and different from each other, impresses me.”

Many of us have had a discussion with families about how our relationship with LCS has changed our lives.

We have encouraged others to learn more about the school through the website or by booking a tour. Yet, you may not know that one third of our students have

How to welcome a prospective family

• • •

Tell them about your experiences, point them to the website, and encourage them to book a tour Call them to see how their tour went and offer to answer any questions they might have Introduce them to another LCS family and enjoy watching our community grow!

the opportunity to attend Lakefield College School through our outstanding financial assistance program.

This program, which offered over $1.5 million last year to deserving young students, attracts young people filled with academic, artistic, athletic, and community-service potential, who may not otherwise be able to afford a high quality education. Through your commitment and

(Opposite) L-R Children of LCS alumni. L-R: Meagan McConnell, Madi Redfern, Rebekah Sibbald, Haley Kemp, Carley MacEwen, JJ Maxwell, Molly Hill, Rachel Grant, Andrew Johnston, Charles Desmarais, Ali Sifton. (Below) Siblings who attend LCS. L-R (back row): Nik and Stephanie Worsfold, Beatrice and Maggy Chan (brother, Jeff, absent), Fernando Vazquez (sister, Natz, absent), Sam and Ned Burgess, Jamie and Maddy Cooper, Yasin Sridar. L-R (front row) Kat Worsfold, Bailie, Hillie, and Abby Allen, and Anissa Sridar.

Grove News Fall/Winter 2009 | 21

Farewell to the Haddens— Retirement

Dinner

The Distillery District, Toronto, November 1, 2008 “It is truly wonderful for both of us to be together in one place with so many of you who have enriched and added meaning and purpose to our lives. All of us who come to know and understand LCS know that we have been involved with and have contributed to something that is special. We share a deep affection for the place we call The Grove. For me, Lakefield is far more a feeling than a place …

“We have been so blessed to have been part of the lives of literally thousands of young people whose numerous and diverse accomplishments have been so uplifting. They have kept us young—if not in body (speaking only personally, of course) at least in mind and in soul. Nothing has been more rewarding than to have observed the magical impact Lakefield has had upon their growth and development, and to know that we have played a part in it…It has been beyond an honour to have served Lakefield. Susan and I are deeply humbled by this evening and everyone’s presence at it.”

DAVID HADDEN, FORMER HEAD OF SCHOOL

22 | Grove News Fall/Winter 2009

“From the first moment we arrived in Lakefield, it has always felt like we were home. As Forest Gump would say, ‘We just fit together like peas and carrots.’ Now, after 23 years behind the scenes, I would like to take a minute to speak to all of you. My thanks go to everyone … It has been a magical journey.”

SUSAN HADDEN

“It was a grand gathering of The Clan. The

Lakefield many years ago as my closest friends are all ex-Lakefield mums

signed “Red Door” as a memento was an

(survivors!) and even many of his old classmates I still see on a regular

excellent idea. I had the opportunity to

basis. LCS has given me so much personally that I never could have

chat with people I had not seen in years.

anticipated over 20 years ago.” ~ JULEEN MARCHAND

When Roger Wright said, “we had the ‘pick of the litter’ as far as Headmasters,” he was absolutely correct.” ~ HUGH MACDONALD ’55 “It was a tremendous celebration ... very Lakefield as always—emotional, sensitive, joyful and fun. It was a night we will all cherish ... It is so important to have these moments to reflect on the incredible experience of a Lakefield Life ... as a parent, grandparent, and student, past and present.

My children truly embrace Lakefield as ‘Home.’” ~ ANNE-MARIE WIELHORSKI-LYTTLE “We thought it was a great party. It really told the Haddens how much they were loved and respected by everyone at The Grove.” ~ JOHN WILKES ’40 “We loved the big stuff: the venue, the blow up pictures of Dave and Sue and the flags, the very moving video, the awesome band, the choir and the alumnus who sang opera[Adam Bishop ’04]. But there was also so much attention paid to the details: the Mackenzie tartan around the napkins, the “Grovey” flower arrangements, the cards with tributes to the Haddens and those neat (and sometimes flammable) candle sticks. (You were after all planning a campfire!) You folks certainly thought of everything.” ~ LOUISE AND RODGER WRIGHT

“WHAT A GREAT NIGHT! The event was amazing—everything from speeches to dancing, to the food and the drinks.” ~ KELLY MCCAULEY ‘02

“The speeches were all brilliant and very amusing … I’m so pleased my son went to Grove News Fall/Winter 2009 | 23

New Bursary Launched in Honour of David and Sue Inspired by the hundreds of students whose lives were

The newly established David and Susan Hadden

transformed as a result of David and Susan Hadden’s

Bursary will provide immediate and ongoing financial

presence in their lives and in response to the wishes of

support to deserving students who attend LCS but

the Haddens “to create an educational environment

cannot afford full tuition fees.

that is accessible to all deserving students,” David Thompson, Head of Lakefield College School recently announced the launch of the newly established David and Susan Hadden Bursary.

In his recent Annual Appeal letter to The Grove community, David shared the motivation for the establishment of the David and Susan Hadden Bursary and called on our LCS community to join together in support of this new initiative: “David Hadden and I have been long-time friends and colleagues and we share a passion for LCS, its students, and its future. We are united in our belief that “education by association” plays a defining role in the growth and development of our students. Our community benefits in so many ways from our bursary

In recognition of David and Susan’s 23 years of dedicated service to more than 2,100 LCS students since 1985, I invite you to join me in demonstrating our support for a cause so dear to them.”

It is the students of the future who will benefit exclusively from this bursary. While hundreds of young lives have been impacted directly by the Haddens over the past two decades, this bursary will provide the funds necessary to influence and change lives for decades to come.

To contribute to the David and Susan Hadden Bursary, visit www.lcs.on.ca/discover/support to make a secure on-line donation or contact me at 705.652.3324 ext.329.

THERESA BUTLER-PORTER

recipients—in the classroom, in the residence, on the stage, and on the sports field. They enrich our lives as much as LCS enriches theirs.

24 | Grove News Fall/Winter 2009

(Below) It’s not just LCS students who enjoy leisure time at the waterfront!

Celebrating Leadership—Paul Desmarais Jr. ’73 2008 Jeffrey Page Rein Wadsworth Award Recipient The Jeffrey Page Rein Wadsworth Award is awarded to

and is currently Honorary Chair of the Lakefield College

a Board Member or a Trustee in recognition of his or

School Foundation. Paul and his wife, Hélène, have

her commitment to volunteerism which has resulted in

four children: Paul ’00, Alexandre ’03, Nicolas ’03, and

outstanding service to the school. It was first awarded

Charles-Edouard, Class of 2011.

in 1997 following the death of Page Wadsworth ’26.

It was created to celebrate and recognize Page’s belief that “it is a great privilege to serve.” The award embodies the characteristics admired in Page Wadsworth, that of dynamic leadership, sensitivity, commitment and vision, all of which he so generously dedicated to the benefit of the school.

The longstanding philanthropic leadership of the Desmarais Family at LCS was recognized in 2004 with the naming of the Paul and Hélène Desmarais Family Academic Wing. They have established the Desmarais Family Scholarship—a fund providing the equivalent of four fully-funded boarding bursaries annually to deserving Lakefield students. At the opening of the

Paul Demarais Jr. ’73 was presented with the Jeffrey

student recreation centre in October, the community

Page Rein Wadsworth Award at the Trustees Dinner

also celebrated the opening of the Paul and Hélène

in October. This award is “close to his heart” as

Desmarais Family Outdoor Education Wing and

Paul’s journey with the school began when his

Climbing Wall.

father, Paul Desmarais Sr., met Page Wadsworth at a business function. Paul Sr. was so intrigued by Page’s description of Lakefield College School he decided that this was the perfect school for Paul Jr. to attend—and the rest, as they say, is history.

Paul’s career with LCS began when he arrived as a

In Paul’s words, “There’s a real spirit to Lakefield College School. It is very much a living thing, continually growing and trying to improve itself … and yet staying on page with its fundamental values. We know we are inspiring young people to become engaged adults.”

student in 1969 and was further cemented when he returned to the school as a Junior Master in Memorial House. He recalls, “Placing trust in me and making

(Below) Donald Ross ’48 (left) presents the Page Wadsworth Award to Paul Desmarais Jr. ’73

me a Junior Master was a defining moment for me. It allowed me to contribute to the school.”

Today, Paul’s contributions are noted worldwide. He is Chairman and Co-Chief Executive Officer of Power Corporation of Canada, and a director of numerous national and international companies. Paul has been awarded the Medal of the Confederation (Canada, 1992), the Insigne d’Officier de l’Ordre de la Couronne (Belgium, 1994), and the Order of Canada (2005).

Paul cares deeply about Lakefield College School, its missions, values, and most of all, its students, as demonstrated by his ongoing commitments. He is a former member of Lakefield College School’s Board of Governors, a trustee of the school from 1997 to 2004, Grove News Fall/Winter 2009 | 25

“What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments but what is woven into the lives of others.” ~PERICLES

(GREEK STATESMAN)

The Footprints We Leave Behind Everyone has their own idea about how they want

are young people who would benefit from a Lakefield

to be remembered in this world once they are gone.

College School education, there will be a place for them

What footprints will be left behind, what lives will be

on the shores of Lake Katchewanooka in the warm

changed, what memories revisited. Perhaps it means

embrace of The Grove.

making a difference through words, actions, or by providing funding through a bequest that would effect long-awaited change.

Leaving a bequest that will enhance the lives of our students is choosing to leave a gift from the heart.

It brings meaning, dignity, and purpose to a life

In recent years, Lakefield College School has been

well-lived. Your gift to Lakefield College School is an

honoured to be the recipient of a number of bequests

opportunity to participate in the future vision for The

—both large and small. And with every bequest,

Grove.

regardless of size, these gifts have made a difference— and continue to make a difference—to someone’s life at The Grove.

Some recent bequests have provided: NN NN

New books and resources for the Learning

Please consider Lakefield College School when creating your will. As you reflect on how you would like to be remembered, know that the greatest gift you will ever leave behind will forever add to the vibrant texture of Lakefield College School and the students it serves.

Commons

If you are interested in discussing how your intentions

Increased financial assistance for deserving

to include Lakefield College School in your estate

students

plans could make a difference to our students, please

NN

Extra funds to help rebuild the windsurfing hut

NN

Support for the construction of Hadden Hall

contact Theresa Butler-Porter 705.652.3324 ext. 329 or tbutlerporter@lcs.on.ca THERESA BUTLER-PORTER

For some, especially those with a life-long connection to Lakefield College School, the opportunity to make a gift through their estate is an extraordinary occasion to give back. It is a simple deed that honours the past with a heartfelt investment in the future.

With 130 years of history, the school has impacted

Editor’s note: A strong believer in ‘walking the talk,’ Theresa has designated a portion of her employersponsored group life insurance to Lakefield College School. She shares that it is “easy, painless, and not likely to impact the quality of my life or those left behind, but will make a difference to future students.”

thousands of students and their families. Today, LCS continues to focus on the needs of the future—on the possibilities—ensuring that for as long as there 26 | Grove News Fall/Winter 2009

(Opposite) Learning at The Grove—Grade 11 students, Dana Madill, Gabrielle Cormier, and Harry Lee, collect insect samples at the waterfront for Mr. Bird’s biology class.

Grove News Fall/Winter 2009 | 27

Patrick McManus ‘88: From the Bryan Jones Theatre to the Shaw Festival November 25, 1986. The stage

—will extend his theatrical career

was probably around 1974. I guess

lights rise on a reproduction of a

well beyond The Grove, eventually

that’s where it all began.

First World War trench. One of

performing at the National Arts

the last all-male casts to play in

Centre, and the Shaw and Stratford

the Bryan Jones Theatre takes the

Festivals.

stage in a production of Journey’s End. It’s a group of dynamic and talented young men: one of its members will go on to front an internationally prominent rock band; another will create a television news network and make feature films; another will perform complex and life-preserving surgeries; and yet another, Patrick McManus—he of the resonant voice and assured stage presence

28 | Grove News Fall/Winter 2009

“After I graduated in 1988, I began a History degree at McGill.

I’d considered going to Theatre

There’s a beer at Patrick’s elbow,

School, but ultimately decided

and he’s clearly feeling mellow

against. I think I wanted to see

as he offers a few reminiscences.

what else might interest me, and

“Friends of my father’s would

I had been given the advice that

host an annual Boxing Day

if there was anything other than

party in London, Ontario,” he

acting that appealed to me, I

tells me. “There would be music,

should do it. There was a year off

and everyone was expected to

to travel, a couple more years at

participate. I remember playing a

McGill, then a transfer to Carleton

dog in “The Walnuts” (a spoof of

where I finally graduated with a BA

the TV show The Waltons). That

in Literature and History.

“Throughout these undergraduate

There was a year in Middle Earth

environment at Lakefield. It was a

years, my interest in pursuing a

with The Lord of the Rings, followed

place where, as a young person, I

life in the theatre continued to

by a season at The Shaw Festival,

could express my opinions without

percolate. When I broke it to my

and last season at Stratford,

fear of being censured. I did a

father that what I really wanted

performing three Shakespeares on

couple of plays, and mounted a

was to be an actor, he took a

the Festival Stage. It was at Shaw,

production of Woody Allen’s God.

moment to consider the idea then

during rehearsals, that I fell in love

Lakefield is where I first read

replied matter-of-factly: “Well, of

with Tara Rosling who was playing

Beckett, Pinter, Kundera, and the

course you should be an actor. It’s

the title role in St Joan.

Bible as a work of literature. Not

the only thing you show up for on time.” That would have been 1994, I think.

“So ... that’s the long version. In short, I guess my path has been one of steady determination and

sure that happens at every high school. It’s a place where young men gathered in the dining hall or ‘Leopard Lounge,’ or in the woods

“The next couple of years were

variety. I’ve had the opportunity

spent taking classes and pursuing

to explore the classical repertoire

any and all opportunities to get on

from Shakespeare through to

stage. I did a summer conservatory

Chekhov, Shaw, and Williams,

program through Equity Showcase

while also developing and

Our interview is at an end, and

Theatre, took scene study and

premiering new work. There’s

after an exchange of best wishes

acting-for-camera classes, and was

been comedy, drama, and musical

Patrick and I go our separate ways.

accepted to take part in a Master

theatre. There’s also been TV and

I find, though, that I’m left with

Class conducted by Uta Hagen. I

radio work from time to time.”

two particularly vivid memories:

auditioned for everything I could, and wrote letters (dozens upon dozens) to theatres around the country.

“In 1996, after a number of nonpaying theatre gigs, I landed my first professional job—a five week contract in Barrie. Over the next ten years more work came my way: new Canadian plays in Toronto; outdoor productions of Shakespeare in High Park and with

And what about the coming year?

Patrick pauses a moment to reflect.

or by the lake, and wrestled with how they were going to find their place in the world.”

the image of a very young Patrick playing a British soldier in Journey’s End at Lakefield, and

“This year, I’m back at The Shaw

the memory of a somewhat older

Festival, performing in three

actor talking to Grove students

Noel Coward one-act plays at the

from the Festival stage at Stratford

Courthouse Theatre, and making

(fall 2008), just minutes after

a brief appearance in Moon for the

he’d finished performing as

Misbegotten. But before rehearsals

Guildenstern in Hamlet. It was

begin for those shows, Tara and I

clear to Grove audiences in the

are preparing for the arrival of our

mid-1980s that Patrick McManus

first child in early March.”

had the talent to move beyond the small stage at Lakefield. It’s

Vancouver’s Bard on the Beach;

How do you remember Lakefield? I

The Blyth Festival; and other

equally clear to his former director

ask. And how—if at all—did it help

regional Canadian companies. I

(and colleagues) that Patrick has

you prepare for your theatrical

also began working regularly in

everything he needs to move

career?

into starring roles at the biggest

Ottawa—first at the Ottawa Fringe Festival, then with The Great

“Well, let me think,” says Patrick.

Canadian Theatre Company, and

“I do remember the sense that

later at The National Arts Centre.

students were expected to take responsibility for themselves and

“The last few years I’ve spent

for their decisions. I also remember

moving around southern Ontario.

feeling well-supported in the

theatres in this country—and beyond.

PAUL NICHOLAS MASON (Opposite) McManus in Taming of the Shrew, Stratford, 2008

Grove News Fall/Winter 2009 | 29

Susie Pearce ’98—Going for Gold North of 60 Henry David Thoreau once said: “We should come

with her great smile and sensitivity to the needs of

home from adventures and discoveries every day with

others.”

new experience and character.” For Susie Pearce, her return home to Nunavut after eight years of schooling in Ontario and Halifax has been filled with unique opportunities and new horizons.

Susie continued on to Halifax studying nursing at Dalhousie University/Nunavut Arctic College, where she was chosen as valedictorian upon graduation and received the Nunavut Leadership Award. Almost three

Well-known at The Grove as a talented and dedicated

years later, she now works as a community health

athlete, Susie won third place for senior women

nurse in Rankin Inlet, where she offers primary care to

in the Arctic Winter Games (AWG) at the age of 18,

the community in the local medical clinic, as well as

represented the Northwest Territories at the Atlantic

on-call service on evenings and weekends. “The facility

Olympics, and was part of the NWT soccer team at

is a little different compared to other health centres

the 1997 Canada Games. She balanced sports with

in Nunavut,” Susie explains. “Here we have lab techs,

her participation in the Concert Band and Concert

x-ray techs, a public health centre, a birthing centre,

Choir, and offered leadership and quiet strength to her responsibilities as Co-head of Memorial House. “As a citizen and an athlete,” says Director of Athletics Ian Armstrong ’83, “Susie embraced all that LCS offered

30 | Grove News Fall/Winter 2009

(Below, left) Recipients of the 2005 Dr. Christine Egan Memorial Scholarship at Nunavut Arctic College in Iqaluit: Susie Pearce (left) with her peer Gloria Mimialik. (Below, right) Susie Pearce (middle) at the Arctic Winter Games awards ceremony in Alaska, 2006.

physiotherapy, as well as a full-time doctor. Other than

Susie came first overall in the open female category of

Rankin, Iqaluit is I think the only other place that has

the Yellowknife 2008 AWG; she received one gold, three

doctors full-time.

silver, and two bronze medals against competitors

“Working as a CHN is a very good experience,” she continues, “but it can be very stressful with the amount of workload we take on. The satisfaction from my job comes from comments from patients who are happy to see an Inuk nurse and don’t need a translator to say what they need to say. I also enjoy learning something

from Alaska, Northern Alberta, Greenland, Nunavik, Nunavut, Northwest Territories, Sami, Russia, and the Yukon Territories. “Every time I compete I learn more about myself and the sport,” she explains. “It is nice to see different parts of the arctic come together and share their games.”

new each day—every day is different from the next.

Ten years after graduating from LCS, Susie is enjoying

I have a really strong working team and I know I am

the reconnection with her family and friends, her

making some difference to the people of Nunavut.”

culture and the opportunity to strengthen her

Despite a demanding professional life, Susie continues to participate in arctic sports. After 15 years, she has been to eight AWG, twice for gymnastics and six times for Inuit Games. Throughout the years, she has always coached herself, and drawn on her inner motivation to workout five times a week and practice 2 to 3 times per week.

Inuktitut language skills. Yet she hopes to return to school in order to give more to the people of Nunavut.

“One lesson from LCS that I have applied to my life is to take your skills to the next level.” Whether she trains for the 2010 AWG or begins her Masters of Nursing, Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner program, at the University of Ottawa, Susie’s focus and determination will help her to succeed. “Susie’s

“I enjoy Inuit Games because it is a very different and

kindness and consideration for others is amazing,”

friendly sport,” says Susie. “Even though we are from

says former Head of Memorial House Sandra Bird. “It is

different places competing against each other, we help

wonderful to see her achieve her goals.”

each other out, we make friends and remain friends, we learn from each other, and we always have a good time.

LISA CLARKE

I love these games not only because they are part of my culture, but because they give me balance in mind, body, and spirit.”

(Below) L-R: Susie Pearce ’98, Brian Tattuinee, and Elayna Moreithi ’98 at LCS during Home to The Grove 2008

Grove News Fall/Winter 2009 | 31

(Opposite) Louis and Bob Fleming ’43 were the first twins at The Grove when they attended in the 1930s. Louis resides in the UK and Bob lives in Toronto. Since Rob and Louis attended, five other sets of twins (on record) have attended Lakefield College School.

part of an architecture exhibition

airing in February 2009 on Animal

entitled, Building on History.

Planet.

The objective of the architecture gallery is to present exhibitions which will educate, challenge and question the thoughts and the ideas which inform contemporary architecture. Petersibbald.com

Class News

Richard Grace ’95 is returning to Canada after six years in Scotland pursuing his career in medicine.

He is living in Hamilton, Ontario where he is working at McMaster University in Plastic Surgery.

The 1980s After 10+ years as the creative director and principal with global

The 1950s Mick Mallon, who taught at The Grove circa 1955, was awarded the Order of Canada in April 2008. He was honoured “for his contributions as a teacher and linguist who spent decades preserving and revitalizing the Inuktitut language.”

design/engineering firm EDAW AECOM based in Hong Kong, Frank Chow ’87 started his own multidisciplinary studio, FRC, focusing on master planning, urban design, and landscape architecture practising throughout China. He is married to Lily, with one son Ian (3) and one daughter Claire (1). Email him at: frank.

The 1960s

chow@fcrstudio.com

Gord Hunter ’63 participated in

Scott Lofquist-Morgan ’88

the North American Orienteering

has taken a position with the

Championships in Syracuse

Department of National Defence in

at the end of September 2008.

Ottawa.

recently asked Cheryl Greene to spend her life with him and she said YES! Cheryl is originally

cnyo.us.orienteering.org/2008/

The 1990s

html/2008A-Meet.htm

Nik Van Haeren ’98 (above)

from Vancouver. They met while working in the indoor tanning

Hugh Sutherland ’91 has begun a

industry. Cheryl moved to Ontario

new business (Urban Fire) creating

in June and shortly thereafter

Peter Sibbald ’76 was invited by

custom outdoor fireplaces.

Nik popped the question.

the Visual Arts at Harbourfront

www.urbandfire.ca

They currently live together in

The 1970s

Centre (Toronto) to exhibit a selection from his photographic series Elegy for a Stolen Land as 32 | Grove News Fall/Winter 2009

Chantal Sutherland ’94 will be on a reality TV show called Jockeys

Woodstock, ON where they are busy working on wedding plans.

Dave Staples ’98 has begun

Beth Earon ’99, Sam Ault ’98, Kara

in Sweden for a year. She lives

a Masters in Sustainability

Big Canoe ’99, Aaron Baril ’99,

and studies in Lund researching

Management in Perth, Australia.

Alison Mitchell ’98, and Kathleen

temperature effects on the

The program focuses on helping

Bingham ’02.

damselfy Ishcnura elegans.

corporations become sustainable entities and positive contributors to society. He invites anyone visiting the Perth area to contact him at staples_david@hotmail.com

Paula (nee Crawford) Mbonda ’99

Katie Uhlmann ’05 received

is a Grade 6 teacher in Pickering,

glowing reviews for her

currently enjoying maternity leave

performance in the play the

(see p.33) with her boys.

garbage and the flowers in Kingston in November.

The 2000s

Belinda Schubert ’99 is articling in Toronto and has discovered a

Lisa Orr ’01 recently received a

network of LCS lawyers including

Fulbright scholarship to study

40th Reunion for The Class of ‘68 Jane and John Hepburn very

Midsummer’s Night Dream. It was a trip back in time and clearly refreshed

kindly hosted a “Class of ’68” 40th

aging memories of Mr. Townsend’s English Literature classes (he always

reunion this past June in the U.K.

had a small “twist” to share which seemed to capture the attention of a

In attendance with the Hepburns

room full of boys!).

were Grace and Alan Belcher, Sue and Bill Gastle, Gabrielle and Decatur Howe, Monika and Murray Hunter along with Carolyn and Bob Mackett.

All gathered in London in early

“Our final night together was hosted by the the Hepburns at John’s Club in Audley Street. It was a fine send-off for all of us. We determined that it had indeed been 40 years before this particular graduate group of our Class of ’68 (17 boys in all) had been together. We felt fortunate to have had the opportunity to toast our three classmates who are no longer with us in addition to the rest of our classmates,” says Alan.

June and shortly thereafter headed off to the Hepburns’ retreat in Surrey for three glorious, sunny

(Below) L-R Bill Gastle, John Hepburn, Bob Mackett, Decatur Howe, Murray Hunter, Alan Belcher, Gabrielle Howe (Standing), Monika Hunter, Carolyn Mackett, Janie Hepburn, Sue Gastle, Grace Belcher

days in the country (who says it rains in England!). There was much laughter, copious amounts of great food, fine wine, and between courses (so to speak) a few rounds of golf and a wonderful day trip to Portsmouth.

The entourage then headed back to London for personal sightseeing before reconvening for a trip on the London Eye. This was followed by a fun pub dinner and a nostalgic evening at the Globe Theatre for an excellent presentation of A Grove News Fall/Winter 2009 | 33

From the Archives This is a photo from our archives without a date or caption. Do you recognize this class? Can you help us fill in the missing names? Please contact Richard Johnston at rjohnston@lcs.on.ca

34  |  Grove News Fall/Winter 2009

Welcome to the World!

Donata and Simon Creasy ’91

Geoff and Jen (Helsing) Cooper

the birth of their second son, Myers

announce the birth of their first

’92, big brother Karsten, and uncle

Elliott Mbonda born on September

child, Rupert Leonard Creasy, on

Mark Helsing ’90 welcomed Felix

12, 2008. Big brother Griffin has

March 8, 2008 in Ottawa.

Robert Cooper on August 24, 2008.

already taught him how to smile

Nicole Florian ’91 and Seth Adler

Al and Paula (nee Crawford)

welcomed Haven Tsi Adler on

Mbonda ’99 are happy to announce

and be a good listener!

March 11, 2008.

Tracey-Lee (Smyth) ’99 and Michael Eddy are thrilled to announce the birth of their daughter, Olivia Grace Eddy, born March 24, 2008.

Margot and Hugh Macdonnell ’85 welcome their fourth child, George Edward (Teddy) Macdonnell, on August 8, 2008 in New Jersey.

Teddy was also welcomed by big

Nicole Florian ‘91 with baby Haven

sister Betsy (9), and big brothers

Alison Joan Tupling

James (7), and Charlie (5).

Marcia (Gidley) Tupling ’92 and husband, Robert, are thrilled to announce the birth of their daughter, Alison Joan Tupling, born in Mississauga on July 12, 2008.

Proud uncle is David Gidley ’94 who currently lives in Adelaide, Australia with his wife, Natalie.

Simon Creasy ‘91 with son Rupert

Olivia Grace (Smyth) Eddy

Felix and Karston Cooper

Charlie, Betsy, Teddy and James Macdonnell

Paula Mbonda ’99 with Griffin and Myers Grove News Fall/Winter 2009 | 35

Weddings Anna Gainey ’97 and Thomas Pitfield (top) were married on January 26, 2008 at the Notre Dame de Bonsecours Chapel in Old Montreal. LCS alumni at the wedding were Colleen Gainey ’03, Jennifer Ridgway ’96, Jennie Jackson-Hughes ’97, Megan Boriss ’97, Kathleen Killen ’96, Mary Sunderland ’97, Caitlin Weaver ’03, and Janet Cudney ’94.

Alanna Gravely ’03 and Justin van Niekerk (second from top) were married on March 12, 2008 in a private family service in South Africa.

Andrea Knowlton ’96 married Ken Murray on May 3, 2008 (third from top). The wedding was held at Grace Church On-The-Hill with reception following at The Granite Club in Toronto.

L-R Jamie Macintosh ‘96 as Best Man (Jamie introduced the bride and groom!); Jeff Knowlton ‘93; Kate Hepburn ‘96; Nicola ‘93 Holmes and Jon Holmes ‘97 (cousins of the groom); Ken Murray; Andrea Knowlton; Kathleen Killen ‘96 as a bridesmaid; Aurora Ratcliffe Smythe (bridesmaid) and Shane Smyth ‘96; and Chris Howard ‘95.

Rob Booth ’98 and Kate Lackie were married on June 2, 2008 at the top of Devil’s Glen Country Club overlooking Georgian Bay (bottom).

36 | Grove News Fall/Winter 2009

Joanne Bridges ’00 and Scott Farley were married on July 26, 2008 in Oakville, Ontario at Maple Grove United Church (top).

Bryan Kingdon ’96 married Mary McEachern on August 23, 2008 in the A.W. Mackenzie Chapel (second from top). The ceremony was performed by Father Glenn Empey. Alumni in attendance included the Groom’s Father Randy Kingdon ’66, Best Man Mike Kingdon ’00, Groomsman Brad Gibson ’96, Cam AinsworthVincze ’96, Earl Dancel ’96, James Fagan ’96, Jeremy Knight ’96, Sean Marshall ’96, James Heintzman ’97, and Trevor Burgis ’97.

Sarah Heikoop ’02 married David Andrew on October 25, 2008 in Kitchener (third from top). Jackie Van Haeren ’02, Laila Abu-Abed ’02, Michelle Fung ’02, and Meghan Vlasschaert ’02 all stood up for Sarah and David.

Allison Collins ’98 married Jesus Palis on November 15, 2008 in Salgar, Colombia (bottom left).

Grove News Fall/Winter 2009 | 37

In Our Memories Diana Wallace on May 15, 2008.

Cliff Malone on October 8, 2008.

Widow of Simon ’44.

Father of Kevin ’77.

Paul Hahn ’49 on August 1, 2008 in

Richard (Dick) Stone ’44 on October

French River. Father-in-law of Alan

24, 2008 in Hampshire, United

Avard ’85.

Kingdom.

Francis (Frank) Cayley on August

Valerie Fleming on October 18, 2008.

3, 2008 in Victoria, BC. Father of

Wife of Louis ’43.

Christopher ’78 and Alasdair ’71.

Tim Dunn ’35 on November 17, Frances Helsing on August 18, 2008

2008 in Montreal, Quebec. Son of

in Peterborough. Mother of Mark ’90

Gwyllym (1900), Father of Peter ’62,

and Jennifer (Helsing) Cooper ’92.

Stuart ’64, Robert ’66, and Brian ’69; Grandfather to Adrian ’92, Matthew

George Shaw on August 18, 2008.

’95, Whitney ’95, Brendan ’98,

Father of John ’71.

Stephanie ’01, and Gillian ’04.

William Cowan on August 23, 2008 in

Welsford (Wels) Marshall on

Toronto. Father of John ’79.

December 5, 2008. Father of Honorary Alumnus and Foundation Board

Kenneth William Morris on October 24, 2008 in Lakefield. Father of Steven Morris ’79 and grandfather of Sam

Chair Jeffrey Marshall; Grandfather of Stephen ’87, Patrick ’90, and Christopher ’96.

Ault ’98 and Jackson Ault ’01.

Mary Helene Switzer on January 12, John Leishman on August 18, 2008.

Father of Jake ’83.

Stewart Patrick Burden on October 7, 2008 in Toronto. Father of Reg ’62 and Patrick ’68.

2009 in North Bay, Ontario. Wife of Maurice Switzer ’63.

Jim Anderson on January 24, 2009 in Peterborough. Former Master and father of Jamie ’69 and Duncan ’71.

“Sir Timothy”—A Class Act LCS alumni Peter ’62, Stuart ’64,

a testament to the Dunn family’s

mourns the passing of Tim

Robert ’66, and Brian Dunn ’69.

commitment of supporting the

Dunn ’35, affectionately known

He also had the pleasure of seeing

precious gift of education. They

as “Sir Timothy,” on Monday,

a number of his grandchildren

were also instrumental in the

November 17, 2008, at the age of 89

attend his alma mater: Adrian

building of Susanna Moodie

at Ste. Anne de Bellevue Veterans

’92, Matthew ’95, Whitney ’95,

House, as well as the tennis courts,

Hospital in Quebec. His passing

Brendan ’98, Stephanie ’01, and

the A.W. Mackenzie Chapel, and

was preceded by the untimely

Gillian Dunn ’04.

many other projects throughout

The entire Grove community

death of his wife, Pam, in June. Son of Major C. Gwyllym Dunn, Class of 1900, and great, great-grandson of well-known Canadian author Susanna Moodie, Tim generously helped to build the outstanding reputation that Lakefield College School has today as one of Canada’s leading independent schools.

Throughout his life, Tim remained deeply involved with the school

their life-long relationship with the school.

as a school trustee and director

“Tim was a class act,” says former

of the school foundation. Tim

Head of School David Hadden, “and

and Pam were champions of the

everyone who succumbed to his

school’s movement towards co-

charm and wit, or benefitted from

education, and dedicated much of

his generosity, will remember him

their support towards deserving

fondly!”

students through the financial

Brother of the late Stuart

assistance program. The Gwyllym

Dunn ’38, Tim is the father of

Dunn Memorial Bursary remains

(Below) L-R: Tim Dunn with his grandaughters, Gillian and Stephanie, and son Brian.

Lakefield College School, 4391 County Road 29, Lakefield, Ontario, Canada K0L 2H0

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Mailed under Canada Post Publication Agreement #40025808 The Grove News is published twice a year by the Advancement Office. We welcome your comments and suggestions. Please contact Tracey Blodgett at 705.652.3324 or tblodgett@lcs.on.ca, or visit our website at www.lcs.on.ca