LA Petite Fleur | 2026 by Little Flower Academy

THE ALUMNAE MAGAZINE OF LITTLE FLOWER ACADEMY

SUMMER 2026

La Petite Fleur

The Flourish Campaign The launch of our campaign brings the community together

Centenary Approaches LFA's 100th anniversary nears, a monumental year of celebration lies ahead

In Loving Memory Celebrating the life and impact of Patricia Martin

hello alumnae! CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2026 - 2027

W e lc o m e B a c k B B Q F R I D AY, S E PT E MBE R 11, 5 : 00 PM www.lfa b c .or g / BBQ

Give Her Wings Gala SA TURDA Y, O C T O BE R 2 4 w ww.lfa b c .or g / G a la

Open House W E D NE S DA Y, O C T O BE R 2 1, 6 : 00 PM w w w .lfa b c .or g / O p enHous e

The Grape Escape 2026 F R I D AY, N O VE MBE R 2 7 , 6 : 00 PM w w w . l fa b c.or g / G r a p eE s c a p e

Home for the Holidays T H U R SDA Y, DE C E MBE R 17 , 1: 30PM w w w.lfa b c .or g / C hr is t m a s

Distinguished Alumnae Mass T HURS DA Y, A PRIL 2 2 * MA S S & RE C E PT IO N

w w w . l fa b c.or g / Dis t ing uis hed

Long Table Dinner F RIDA Y, A PRIL 30*

w w w.lfa b c .or g / Long T a b le

It is with great pleasure that I present this year’s La Petite Fleur. We have a vast and incredible collection of stories from the LFA community for you this year. We catch up with many alumnae, we profile some of our amazing students, we relive the most exciting events of the year past, and we look ahead to 2027, which will see the launch of our new campus and LFA’s 100th anniversary. The LFA Alumnae Association had the pleasure of hosting a number of great events this year. Our fan-favourite Grape Escape took place in November and once again it was an unforgettable food and wine experience curated by LFA Chef, Jay Fournier. In December a record number of alumnae came back for our biggest Home for the Holidays event yet; it was an incredibly festive and joyous affair as always. In April, we honoured two exceptional Angels—Mary Margaret Mackinnon ’75 and Kathleen S. Jayme ’06—at our Distinguished Alumnae Mass and Reception. In May, our Alumnae Curling Bonspiel was a hit as many eager alumnae came out for a uniquely LFA evening of curling, fun, and socializing. Looking ahead, we’re excited for our Welcome Back BBQ on September 11. It will be the perfect summer evening to kick off the new school year. You can RSVP at www.lfabc.org/BBQ. On November 27, Grape Escape will be back for another extraordinary night of food and wine in the comfort of LFA—tickets are available at www.lfabc.org/GrapeEscape. And be sure to join us for Home for the Holidays 2026 on December 17—we look forward to welcoming you back to LFA for a festive and heartwarming celebration. As Chair of the LFA Alumnae Association Executive, I am deeply grateful to my fellow Executive Committee members and to the alumnae community, near and far. It brings me such joy to witness our community and connect with Angels throughout the school year. This year’s issue strives to capture that indelible spirit of LFA. Thank you for reading and thank you for keeping LFA in your heart.

* - Date to be confirmed

REUNIONS

Sincerely, Jo-Ann Monteiro '92

P L A N N I N G Y O U R 6 0, 5 0, 4 0, 3 0, 2 0, 1 0 OR ANY YEAR IN BETWEEN? WE CAN HELP alumnae@lfabc.org

LFA ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION

Table of Contents

4195 Alexandra Street Vancouver, BC V6J 4C6 Phone: 604.738.9016 Email: alumnae@lfabc.org www.lfabc.org/alumnae

C O NT R IB U T ING W R IT ERS Marta Adamovich '71 Margarita Carlos '02 Elaine Chong '00 Dan Chow Emily Cordonier '01 Corilee Cotter '70 Anamaria Espinel Ben Fitch Katie Larson Ali McGillivray Jo-Ann Monteiro '92 Elise Nguyen '26 Kate Patterson '02 Carlie Erin Paxton '97 Udhay Sokhi

Home for the Holidays 2025.......................................................................................................... 6 The Grape Escape................................................................................................................................. 8 Alumnae Curling Bonspiel 2026................................................................................................10 Grandparent Day ................................................................................................................................14 UK Field Hockey Tour 2026.............................................................................................................18 A Great New Book for Your Kids.................................................................................................23 A New Century, A New Campus................................................................................................24 Campaign Launch............................................................................................................................. 26 New in 2027...............................................................................................................................................28 Campus Construction: The First 8 Months.......................................................................32 The Cullen Family Library.............................................................................................................. 34 Centenary Calendar........................................................................................................................ 38 Patricia Martin: In Loving Memory.......................................................................................... 40

Carolyn Sussey '94

Class of '71 Reunion............................................................................................................................ 44

Bettina Sy '97

Class of '75 Reunion.......................................................................................................................... 45

Karen Teufel ‘02 Jane Whittingham '02

D ESIGN, L A YO U T , PHO TOGRAP H Y Ben Fitch

Udhay Sokhi

P H OT O GR A PHY

Blaine Campbell Wendy D Photography Ben Fitch Larry Goldstein Darryl Humphrey Udhay Sokhi

ED IT O R

Ben Fitch Udhay Sokhi

C O V ER

Felicia de la Paz '05, Sr. Nancy Brown, and Lesley Jackson '90 along with students and esteemed guests at LFA's Groundbreaking Ceremony on October 15, 2025. Photo Credit: Larry Goldstein.

Where Are They Now?...................................................................................................................... 46 Nana Frimpong '14—The Eyes of Ghana............................................................................ 48 It Takes a Sense of Humour: Patty (O'Leary) Emry..................................................... 50 The Stellings: LFA's Field Hockey Family...............................................................................52 Distinguished Alumnae 2026..................................................................................................... 54 Amelia King '27: National Poetry Champion................................................................... 60 LFA Shines at UBC's Physics Olympics................................................................................. 62 Graduation 2026................................................................................................................................. 64 A Beautiful Noise—An LFA Choral Choir Concert......................................................... 68 Shrek the Musical.................................................................................................................................70 Great Gatsby Party.............................................................................................................................72 Athletics.......................................................................................................................................................76 BC Winter Games Medal Haul................................................................................................... 80 Provincial Silver (Again)...................................................................................................................81 Walkathon 2025....................................................................................................................................82 Welcome Back BBQ 2025.............................................................................................................. 84 Mother Daughter Brunch.............................................................................................................. 86 Father Daughter Dinner Dance................................................................................................ 88 Advancement Update (Thank you Connie).................................................................. 90 Notes from the Grotto.....................................................................................................................102

UPDATES AND COMMENTS Let us know what you think. Send updates and comments to alumnae@lfabc.org Articles, photos, and up-to-date LFA news and much more is available online.

We acknowledge that students and staff at Little Flower Academy are privileged to live, learn, play and worship on the unceded and traditional territories of the Coast Salish peoples - xʷməθkʷəy̓ əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and ̓ itulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. səl i̓ lwətaɁɬ / sel í̓ l w We are grateful for the stewardship and traditional knowledge, passed down through ancestors, which have sustained the lands we love.

Visit us at www.lfabc.org/alumnae 5

Home for the Holidays 2025 Our annual Home for the Holidays event took place on December 18, 2025. We welcomed a record number of alumnae this year, with well over 100 alumnae returning for a lovely school mass and reception. Our Grade 12s were eager to join in on the reception and see their old friends, as were our staff who were happy to see their former students, and in some cases for our alumnae faculty members, former classmates! The theme for this year’s mass was “Christ, Be Our Light” and it was beautifully led by Father Frank Hernandez with our entire student body and alumnae guests in attendance. Alumnae, staff, and Grade 12 students were then welcomed into the cafeteria for a wide array of confections, seasonal treats and drinks, and a buzzing atmosphere of Christmas cheer. The event also coincided with our Senior Basketball team’s LFA Invitational Tournament. Alumnae were able to drop into the Sr. Kelly Gymnasium and catch the action as our Angels took on Sir Winston Churchill. The home court advantage was in full effect, with a gym full of alumnae as our team emerged victorious 52-33. By day’s end our alumnae had practically gotten to relive a day at LFA. It was very special to see so many alumnae return, and we’re grateful for the continued support and enthusiasm of our alumnae community. Many thanks are owed to the Alumnae Executive team for their support in organizing and volunteering at the event. A special shoutout is also owed to Dana Hospitality for providing the delicious food and refreshments! Home for the Holidays is a perfectly LFA way to kick off the holiday season. If you haven’t been to LFA recently, we invite you to join us for this cozy and fun community event. If you're coming up to a milestone reunion year, it is a great way to bring a group together.

SAVE THE DATE: DECEMBER 17, 2026

Home for the Holidays 2026 December Mass | 1:30 – 2:30 Home for the Holidays | 2:30 – 5:00

Please join us for our December Mass. Reception to follow. Food, fun, and Christmas cheer to kick off the season and reconnect with friends and teachers. Learn more at www.lfabc.org/Christmas 7

The Grape Escape AUTHOR: KAREN TEUFEL '02

Grape Escape 2025 was, as always, one of our most-beloved alumnae events of the year. In a bit of a nostalgic twist, this year’s event was a nod to decades and Grape Escapes past, with menu items inspired by the 1940s, 1950s, and past Grape Escape dishes. This year also marked our first foray into adventures with mead, as this honey-based beverage was paired with our dessert course and sourced from a local Meadery on Salt Spring Island. Lucky purchasers of our VIP baskets were not only sent home with their own bottle of Mead, but also a cocktail recipe to try out! After last year’s success, we were excited to see what Chef Jay would cook up for this year’s event. From his spot prawn and scallop ravioli to the West Coast sablefish, to the always-popular short ribs, guests were once again wowed by his culinary talent. Every course was simply delicious and paired wonderfully with the wines selected by our long-time sommelier Lara Victoria. We can’t wait to see what Chef Jay and the Dana Hospitality team have in store for Grape Escape 2026! Reunion and class tables are a true staple of Grape Escape, and this year was no different, with alums from the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, 2000s, 2010s and even 2020s in attendance. We always enjoy having reunion tables at this event, and hope to see many more next year! Grape Escape is one of our most beloved community events, but it would not be the success that it is each year without the help of everyone behind the scenes, working tirelessly to make this event the best it can be. A sincere thank you to everyone involved, including our alumnae and parent volunteers, many of whom were joining us for the first time! And an even bigger thank you to our wonderful guests. Whether this was your first Grape Escape, or if you're a seasoned pro, we hope you enjoyed Grape Escape 2025, and we look forward to seeing you in November for our 2026 edition! 8

Alumnae Curling Bonspiel 2026

On May 1, 2026, over 50 LFA alumnae joined us at the Vancouver Curling Club for what may very well have been the most fun alumnae event yet! 10

Our much-anticipated spring event this year was the Alumnae Curling Bonspiel! Wondering what exactly a bonspiel is? Firstly, it’s a term more familiar to anyone that has spent some time in rural Ontario. Secondly, it’s a fun community event where teams and clubs gather to curl.

those involved. Given the sense of civic pride, and interest in curling and what exactly a “double touch” is being back in the zeitgeist thanks to the 2026 Winter Olympics, it felt like the perfect opportunity to bring back the bonspiel.

The last time LFA held a curling bonspiel was all the way back in 2013. It was the first event of its kind, and it was incredibly memorable and fun for

Our alumnae clearly agreed, as over 50 of them across 11 teams showed up to the Vancouver Curling Club for an incredibly fun night of curling, 11

prizes, food, drink, and reminiscing. Our alumnae showed up with great spirit and energy. There were coordinated costumes and team signs, some even brought their own curling equipment! There were experienced curlers and those throwing a stone for the very first time. The common theme amongst our curlers was their alma mater and the smiles on their faces as they hit the ice. Teams participating included The Vintage Rockers, Sisterhood of the Travelling Stones, Heated Rivals, Taken for Granite, On the Rocks, The Devil Wears Sliders and more. The evening wound down with food and refreshments provided in the lounge by Chef Jay and the Dana Hospitality team. Members of our Alumnae Executive were present to hand out prizes for best team spirit, highest score, most slips on the ice, and a number of other prestigious and important categories. Our spring alumnae events are always wide-ranging and a highlight for our exec team. We were delighted by the turnout for our bonspiel this year, and we invite you to come out for our next alumnae event. This year we plan to pull out all the stops for an incredible long table dinner in the LFA Auditorium—a final chance to see it before it is removed to make space for the new campus. Learn more at www.lfabc.org/LongTable

The LFA Parents' Auxiliary welcomes you to the Give Her Wings Gala 2026

www.lfabc.org/Gala 13

Grandparent Day 2026 was a beautiful day for all involved. Our LFA grandparents and grand friends were all smiles as they delighted in a day spent with their granddaughters. We are grateful to Father Leo for celebrating Mass with us on the day, as well as our awardwinning choir for sharing their incredible singing talent with a gorgeous selection of songs performed for the entire school and our grandparent guests. The day was capped with school tours and a rose and chocolates for all grandparents on their way out. It was a special and joyous day at LFA.

GRANDPARENT DAY 2026

An LFA Homecoming

Join us!

Welcome Back BBQ 2026 5pm til Late | Friday, Sept. 11, 2026 More information & RSVP at www.lfabc.org/BBQ or here:

UK Field Hockey Tour 2026

Above: Dover Castle. Do castles get any better? In fairness, we put that to the test. Below: King's College is really old, but they have super cool new jerseys and the most amazing hospitality. Inset: LFA captures the Varsity Cup in Cheltenham. We are excited to have to go back to defend that...

L F A F ield H o ckey has amazi ng e xpe r ie nc e on t ri p acros s t he p ond AUTHOR: KATIE LARSON This past March, 19 LFA field hockey players from Grades 9 through 12 along with Coach Fitch and Ms. Larson boarded a flight to England for an unforgettable 12-day tour of the United Kingdom. Over the course of the trip, the team competed in 11 matches against some of the top-ranked girls’ field hockey teams in southern England while also exploring a wide range of historic sites—an experience that proved both competitive and culturally enriching. On the field, the level of play was exceptional. The quality of hockey played by our Angels was something to behold. Individually, every athlete took the opportunity to elevate her game, but it was the stunning team game that impressed both our coaches and our opposition the most. LFA secured eight wins and remained fiercely competitive in every match. At each school, the team was warmly welcomed and took part in post-match "teas": a wonderful sporting tradition common in the UK where the two teams share a meal and some social time after the match. Maybe it was the rematch of 2014 or 2017 in Cheltenham... or the rematch from 1995 in 18

Vancouver, but among the most memorable hockey experiences was playing Cheltenham Ladies’ College (CLC) again, where LFA captured the "Varsity Cup" before getting to cheer on CLC in their school netball match.

While Coach Fitch reminisced about the earlier tour games with Cheltenham Ladies, Caroline (CLC faculty) fondly recalled their tour to British Columbia in the 1990s. Remarkably, she still had the original travel program listing the match and had remained in contact with former LFA faculty member Ali McGillivray for many years—an inspiring reminder of the enduring connections fostered through sport.

Other highlights included competing against King’s College Canterbury, the oldest school in England, with origins dating back to 597 (when St. Augustine established a cathedral and abbey and would eventually receive a Royal Charter from Henry VIII). The team also enjoyed getting to know their opponents from St. Mary’s Ascot, a Catholic all-girls school with many similarities to LFA. Another Catholic host, Downside School, gave our athletes (and some of our travelling parents) a private tour of the school’s Abbey— formally known as the Basilica of St. Gregory—led by Father Michael. He shared its rich history, from its early monastic origins to its present role as a spiritual home for both the school and the wider community. Among the highlights were chapels dedicated to St. Joseph and St. Mary. Between matches, the players experienced the best of England and Wales, from medieval castles and historic cathedrals to charming countryside and lively high streets. Highlights included visits to Dover, Bodiam, and Raglan Castles, as well as Canterbury and Salisbury Cathedrals. The team spent time in Hay-on-

Top left: There's better pictures of Dover Castle, but no better team photos at Dover Castle. Bottom left: Michaela Larson '28 dangles in the midfield vs. Downside School.

Left: Bodiam Castle. Smaller than Dover. But more magical? Pleasingly, you can really appreciate the portcullis in this photo. Above: Amazing Oxford with our amazing alumnae! Wadham College. Below: Ightam Mote. England's oldest medieval moated manor house, which one can't fully appreciate in this photo... but 700 years of history under one roof. You really can't go wrong.

Wye, Wales’ famed “Town of Books,” known for its extraordinary number of independent bookstores, and Bourton-on-the-Water, a picturesque village in the Cotswolds. The Roman Baths at Bath were amazing, as was Stonehenge. We even stayed several nights at St. Briavel's Castle, with the athletes braving sleeps in "The Prison". Along the way, they also enjoyed plenty of traditional cream tea and discovered a new favourite dessert: Gü! A particularly meaningful aspect of the tour was the opportunity to connect with LFA alumnae living in England. Nicole Lee ’10, who is completing her medical residency in Birmingham, traveled by train to meet the group in Oxford. Rhodes Scholar, Phoebe Cheung ’18, provided an exclusive tour of Rhodes House, where the team was enthralled by the portraits of Nelson Mandela and other global leaders in McCall MacBain Hall. Later, Trisha-Mae Capistrano ’20, currently pursuing a Master of Social Work, guided the group through Wadham College. The team relished the rare opportunity to explore the grounds beyond the college gates.

During a period of free time in Oxford, leaders Ben Fitch and Katie Larson met with the three alumnae over coffee, sharing updates about LFA’s campus redevelopment and reflecting on their high school experiences. The conversation offered meaningful insight into how their time at LFA had shaped their academic and professional journeys abroad. The tour concluded with a final day in London, where students explored the city in small groups. Some wanted more history so went to the National Gallery. Others, wanting to expand their palate, visited Borough Market and Covent Garden. For some, iconic landmarks such as Big Ben and Westminster Abbey were the priority. The trip ended on a high note with a West End performance—Hamilton—a spectacular production and a fitting conclusion to an extraordinary journey. The team returned home on March 25, transformed by an experience that strengthened not only their athletic abilities but also their friendships and sense of adventure. While all

school trips offer valuable experiences, there is something uniquely powerful about an international sports tour, where competition and camaraderie go hand in hand. While the players may not remember every score, they will undoubtedly carry with them lasting memories of post-match teas, shared laughter with their opponents, and the friendships formed along the way. GAME SUMMARY

Win vs. St. Lawrence College (3–2) Loss vs. Ashford School (3–4)

Win vs. Tunbridge Wells HC (5–0)

Win vs. King’s College Canterbury (2–1)

Loss vs. Bishop’s Stortford College (2–3) Win vs. St. Mary’s Ascot (2–0)

Win vs. Downside School (6–0)

Win vs. Cheltenham Ladies College (8–3) *2026 Varsity Cup Champions

Win vs. Hereford Cathedral School (3–1)

Loss vs. King Edward’s School Southampton (0–2) Win vs. St. Edward’s School (5–3)

Time is but a shadow, a dream; already God sees us in glory and takes joy in our eternal beatitude. — St. Thérèse of Lisieux

Join the Alumnae Exec Plan seasonal alumnae events, liaise with the alumnae community, organize reunions, contribute to La Petite Fleur, stay involved with LFA, and much more! To learn how you can become a member of the Alumnae Executive, please reach out to Alumnae Executive Chair, Jo-Ann Monteiro '92 at alumnae@lfabc.org

A Great New Book for Your Kids AUTHOR: JANE WHITTINGHAM '02

Research consistently shows that most children choose funny books when looking for something good to read. Humorous books can help children cope with stressful situations, engage reluctant readers, and present information in ways that feel less intimidating than traditional textbooks. They can also support relationship building, as children are often eager to share the funny jokes and wild facts they've learned with their peers. All this is to say that I've got an exciting new project coming out with Simon & Schuster Canada that's really, really funny. Combining corny jokes, brain-teasing riddles, terrific tongue-twisters and jaw-dropping facts into one package, The Laugh-a-Minute Joke Book for Kids (written under my pen name, J.W. McLaughlin) is perfect for school-age kids looking for their

next favourite book. Available through all major retailers, The Laugh-a-Minute Joke Book for Kids is a great birthday or Christmas present for any reader aged 7-12, especially those who need a little nudge to put down a device and pick up a book. To find out more about my new and upcoming books, be sure to follow me on Instagram: @ janewhittinghambooks

Reunion Year? Time to Celebrate!

IT'S TIME FOR A CLASS REUNION! LET US KNOW HOW WE CAN HELP COORDINATE A SCHOOL TOUR OR SCHOOL-BASED REUNION EVENT. CONTACT US AT ALUMNAE@LFABC.ORG 23

A New Century

Open September, 2027 The new buildings will open in 2027, enriching every aspect of the student experience. With the extraordinary support of our community, our Flourish Campaign has enabled the project to stay on time and on budget.

LFA Enrolment Stays the Same Though there is a generational campus improvement coming, what has made LFA special through the years remains the same. Part of that is keeping LFA a small school. As it has been for the past many decades, we will enrol 96 students at every grade: 480 Angels from Grade 8 through 12. We explored expanding enrolment. We looked at reintroducing an elementary school to LFA. We arrived at the conclusion that our current size is the perfect fit for who we want to be.

LFA Remains Needs Blind Our starting point was that an accessible Little Flower education is at the heart of our school mission. We are committed to being "needs blind" and representing a Catholic community from across the Lower Mainland. Financial Aid is an essential part of our planning and the campus development will coincide with the expanding role of the school's endowment fund to provide both operational resources and financial aid.

A New Campus Opening September, 2027

The Flourish Campaign We are now in the midst of the most ambitious fundraising campaign in the history of our school to fund this extraordinary project. With no government funding for an independent Catholic school, LFA has been blessed by those alumnae, parents, grandparents, and friends who believe so deeply in this investment in girls' education. A generational fundraising initiative for a generational project that will take us into our next century.

Naming Opportunities You can be a part of the story for the next century that tells of our community coming together to build our school. We have already seen extraordinary interest in the naming opportunities for rooms and spaces in our new campus. Would you like to learn more? Contact Ben Fitch, Director of Advancement at 604.738.9016 ext. 104 or email fitchb@lfabc.org

Campaign Launch The LFA community comes together to launch our Flourish Campaign Flourish is a $27 million campaign that will drive the most important transformation of the school campus since the founding of our school. It will be the catalyst for physical, operational and pedagogical advancements that will elevate how we educate and prepare young women for their futures; and will secure our ability to do so for the rest of the 21st century. We welcomed more than 2,000 alumnae, students, parents, grandparents, friends, trustees and directors to LFA on a gorgeous September night to celebrate the launch of the biggest fundraising project ever undertaken by the school. A night of celebration as we announced $9 million already raised towards Flourish, hope for the future, and a show of love for all that the school represents for young women in our community.

New in 2027

Large, collaborative classrooms & learning commons 28

Four modern Science Labs

An auditorium at the heart of the school

Textiles lab will be integrated with STEAM

Contemporary foods lab

State-of-the-art STEAM hub

Year-round synthetic turf fields

After nearly a decade of meticulous planning, LFA's campus master plan will be realized next year, in time to mark our school centenary. Little Flower Academy is long established as one of the very best schools in British Columbia. Confident in the extraordinary outcomes our students will achieve, we’ve focused on building an educational program that is immersive and experiential—a high school experience that fosters self-confidence and prepares girls for whatever it is they choose to do in life. We have a bold vision to take us into our next hundred years. We will align the quality of our programs and the aspirations of our students

with contemporary learning spaces for nearly every subject we teach. From September, 2027, all of our programs will be taught in spaces specifically designed for the subject being taught. Every child at every grade will see profound benefits for generations to come. The new buildings will introduce completely new classrooms, with breakout spaces and learning commons. We will open modern, state-of-theart science labs for a student population that defies gender stereotypes on women choosing the sciences. A whole new generation of performing arts students will enjoy an auditorium that is specially designed for performance and theatre. Our immensely successful STEAM program, with its emphasis on dynamic problem solving, will expand and move to the heart of the

school to facilitate cross-curricular integration. Established programs like Food Sciences will get refreshed kitchens. Students will benefit from a specially designed counselling centre. We will enjoy new outdoor learning spaces and two synthetic fields (a roof-top turf for tennis and field hockey training and an all-purpose training field), useable year-round. Looking forward, both our programs and our campus will be a leading light in girls’ Catholic education in Canada. All the while, being a shining example of a truly exceptional education accessible to the community it serves.

SOMETIMES IT'S TIME TO REPLACE Why Build New Rather than Renovate? We looked at every feasible option to give future generations of young women the same types of learning spaces and opportunities that already exist at Lower Mainland Catholic high schools and local public schools. For years, the school has stewarded our campus with careful upkeep and maintenance. Still, the age is showing. Pipes now burst. Sewer-lines need replacing. Electrical is outdated. The boiler is from a different era and heating through the winter (and cooling in the spring) to keep the learning spaces temperate is nearly impossible. Much of our campus was built with far different purposes in mind. Renovation and retrofitting the 1950s cinderblock buildings was simply not costeffective. In very practical terms, the clear best use of our school resources was to start anew. In taking this step, both the City of Vancouver and our neighbours were understanding, if not keen, to see our campus also recentred on the busier King Edward thoroughfare.

Flourish The Campaign for Little Flower Academy

Please consider supporting LFA at this extraordinary moment in our school history

www.lfabc.org/Flourish

Campus Construction The First 8 Months Flourish The Campaign for Little Flower Academy

1. OCT. 15, 2025: Groundbreaking Ceremony at LFA. 2. OCT. 30, 2025: Final practice on the LFA field. 3. NOV. 20, 2025: Construction vehicles take over the site. 4. DEC. 2, 2025: The crane arrives on campus and is quickly assembled. 5. DEC. 5, 2025: Concrete pouring begins on site. 6. JAN. 13, 2026: The northwest core stairwell begins to take form. 7. JAN. 14, 2026: A worker works on framing the foundation for concrete pour. 8. FEB. 20, 2026: The concrete boom pump (might not be the official name) in action, pumping from the area that will become the new performance centre.

9 7

2 12 11

9. FEB 26, 2026: The new campus reaches two stories tall. 10. MAR. 3, 2026: Work on the rebar preparation creates some sparks. 11. MAR. 25, 2026: The campus stands three stories tall, but the additional fourth floor allows for elevator roof access (for the rooftop sport surface). 12. APR. 1, 2026: There's no fooling: it is an early look at the performance centre coming together. 13. MAY 4, 2026: Structural concrete work is completed and the mass timber will arrive later that week. 14. JUN. 14, 2026: Mass timber framing is taking shape. 15. JUN. 14, 2026: The first story mass timber flooring is fully installed on the north side of the site. 16. JUN. 17, 2026: Our soon-to-be new campus continues to take shape.

14 13

The Cullen Family Library On a quiet Thursday afternoon on May 14, 2026, LFA unveiled our newly named Cullen Family Library. The special guests included some of our current student leaders who most use the library, a handful of faculty, Jane Rowan Society Board directors, LFA Foundation trustees, and the Cullen Family. The Cullen Family Library recognition reflects years of dedicated support and philanthropic leadership from Mark and Barbara Cullen. Mark and Barbara were first introduced to the Little Flower Academy community in 1985 when their daughter, Lesley (Cullen) Jackson ’90, first attended LFA. From the outset, the Cullen family was regularly involved in the school community. Over the years, Mark and Barbara’s carefully considered philanthropy and their invaluable commitment to LFA’s vision has been a true blessing for our students and school community. They were an instrumental part of the campaign that saw the construction of the 2007 wing of the 34

school. They’ve been dedicated supporters of the school's financial aid program, which aligns with our steadfast commitment to accessibility. Thanks to their generosity, countless young women have been given the opportunity to attend LFA who might otherwise have not been able to do so. In 2018, they put their trust in LFA by giving a generous lead gift to make our stateof-the-art STEAM lab possible. It was a moment that enabled a space that has seen our students thrive and accomplish extraordinary things and gave us the confidence to look towards something bigger with the Flourish Campaign. Naturally, when it came to the Flourish Campaign, the Cullens once again were early leaders, trusting in the school to deliver something extraordinary to the next generation of young women. Mark and Barbara Cullen's gifts have touched nearly every facet of Little Flower and they have played an unprecedented role in ensuring exceptional Catholic girls’ education in Vancouver.

The naming of our library is not only a tribute of our gratitude for all the Cullens have done over the years, but a personal connection that speaks to their impact. Their own granddaughter, Lesley’s daughter, Elisabeth (Beth) Jackson ’24, spent much of her formative time at LFA in the comfort of the library. From junior and senior book clubs to LFA’s kids lit challenge, Beth found a home in the LFA library as so many of our students have through the years. It is a fitting legacy and a reflection of our community's sincerest thanks for all the Cullens have done that the academic heart of our school will bear their name.

CENTENARY CALENDAR

Grape Escape

Give Her Wings Gala As we head into the 2026-2027 school year, we will be commemorating 100 years of LFA. The unveiling of our new campus in September, 2027, will be exactly 100 years since LFA first opened its doors. From now until then, we plan on celebrating the 100-year history that has seen so many young women grow, mature, and flourish at our school. With events all year to mark the occasion, there's no better time to come back.

Welcome Back BBQ 2026 Friday, September 11, 2026

Our annual kickoff event to celebrate the start of the school year. Our entire LFA community is invited to take part. www.lfabc.org/BBQ

LFA Open House

Wednesday, October 21, 2026

LFA is opened up to prospective families for a tour of our facilities. Alumnae with daughters hoping to attend are encouraged to come out! www.lfabc.org/OpenHouse

Give Her Wings Gala

Home for the Holidays

Saturday, October 24, 2026

Thursday, December 17, 2026

Mother Daughter Brunch

LFA Art Show

Our beloved annual event highlighting the bond between LFA mothers and daughters. A festive brunch experience featuring photo booths, performances, and prizes!

Our annual student art showcase! The entire LFA community is invited to enjoy the incredible artwork of our student body.

An extraordinary evening of impact. Featuring a cocktail reception, a decadent dinner, speeches from school leaders and alumnae, a live auction, dancing and celebration. Parents, alumnae, and friends are welcome! www.lfabc.org/Gala

Sunday, November 22, 2026

The Grape Escape

Friday, November 27, 2026

Our most popular alumnae event, The Grape Escape offers patrons a glorious evening of great wine, great food, and great company. www.lfabc.org/GrapeEscape

The most festive event of the year! Alumnae are invited back to the school for a cozy holiday hang. Featuring a holiday mass followed by a lovely reception with festive treats and lots of Christmas cheer. www.lfabc.org/Christmas

Friday, January 8, 2027

Alumnae School Tour Friday, February 12, 2027*

Alumnae are invited back to LFA for one of the last opportunities to tour the old wing of our school. Reception to follow. www.lfabc.org/CentenaryTour

Father Daughter Dance

LFA Choral Concert

Long Table Dinner

Graduation

Father Daughter Dance

Founders' Circle Reception

A celebration of LFA fathers and daughters. The auditorium is cleared out for an evening of great food, conversation, and lots of dancing.

Our annual celebration of community members who have made LFA a philanthropic priority. A lovely evening of community and gratitude.

Saturday, February 20, 2027

Distinguished Alumnae Mass & Reception Thursday, April 22, 2027*

Our annual opportunity to honour those alumnae who exemplify and have lived the core values of LFA. www.lfabc.org/Distinguished

Long Table Dinner Friday, April 30, 2027*

A farewell fundraiser to say goodbye to the old wing. Our 1950s auditorium will transform into the perfect venue for an exquisite long table dinner. Celebrity Chef to be confirmed! Enjoy an unforgettable dinner with a touch of nostalgia in the familiar comfort of the LFA auditorium. www.lfabc.org/LongTable

Wednesday, May 12, 2027*

LFA Choral Concert

Grandparent Day

Campus Opening & Centenary Celebration September, 2027

The unveiling of our new campus and the next chapter in LFA's history alongside our centennial celebration party. www.lfabc.org/LFA100

Thursday, May 20, 2027

Our choral program's annual showcase event. Featuring all of the LFA choirs in a moving night of performance and song.

Grandparent Day

Thursday, May 27, 2027

A beloved LFA tradition. Grandparents and grand friends are invited to the school to spend a day with their granddaughters.

Grad Liturgy & Ceremony Tuesday, June 1, 2027*

A celebration of the Class of 2027 and all that they have brought to our school community.

* : Date to be confirmed Gold text : Fundraising Event 39

Patricia Martin In Loving Memory

Patricia Martin was LFA’s Spanish teacher from 1992 to 2012. For 20 years she was a beloved member of the LFA community. A cherished colleague, an excellent teacher, and a bright light in the hallways of LFA. Patricia passed away on December 12, 2025, after a prolonged battle with cancer. The outpouring of love and prayers that followed for Patricia were a reflection of the many lives she touched. A beautiful Celebration of Life was held by Patricia’s family on February 15, 2026. In attendance were several of Patricia’s former colleagues and students, along with family and friends. We’ve gathered below a handful of the speeches, remarks, and kind words that came pouring in from the LFA community at large. Former LFA teacher, Ali McGillivray’s speech at Patricia's Celebration of Life: Patricia and I were fairly sure that our paths crossed before we met at Little Flower Academy. I most likely served her and her two daughters ice cream at the Big Scoop Sundae Palace on 10th and Trimble in the 70s while she was living in Point Grey and I was working there for a summer job. But our friendship started when Patricia joined LFA in the fall of 1992 teaching Spanish 10, 11 and 12. These quickly became popular courses as students realized what a phenomenal teacher she was. She also poured her heart and soul 40

into making her Planning 10 course relevant to her classes. Patricia was one of those people who immediately made you feel like you were a friend and not just a colleague. I was fortunate that she asked me to accompany her on several overseas school trips, mostly to Spain and one to Mexico. Lucky were the students who signed on for these. Patricia arranged for them to study Spanish at a top-notch school and the families that they boarded with enriched their learning. She enthusiastically showed her students the small white hilltop villages that she loved as well as introducing them to the wonders of Sevilla and Granada. I know that these experiences meant much to the girls as there were many tears on the last day when they said goodbye to their host families. Patricia was usually first on the floor for flamenco or sevillanas dance lessons at the Spanish school in Nerja. She always said it was to encourage the shyer students, but I know it was also because music was so much a part of her life that she could not wait to dance. Because of Patricia, many of her LFA Spanish students continued their language learning at university and beyond. She would update me on the numerous former students with whom she kept in contact. I recently went through the Little Flower Academy yearbooks to look at pictures of Patricia. Often the student editors of the annual would pose a

question to the staff so I thought I would share some of her responses over the 20 years she was at the school. I think that they shed light on Patricia’s personality and I am sure that many of you will understand why she said what she did. To the question “If you were Waldo, where would you hide and why?” Patricia replied, “Frigiliano, a pueblo blanco on the mountains of Andalucia. Every morning I would visit other pueblos. And then come back for a flamenco class.” To the question “What is your motto or perspective on life?” Patricia replied “Live your wildest dreams, follow your bliss, extend your love and be happy. Olé!” To the question “What age would you remain at and why”? Patricia replied, “I would like to stay five years old and play all my life long.” After my husband and I, in 2023, visited her childhood home in Montevideo so near to the beach, I can recognize why that was her answer. To the question: “What would you be doing if you decided to take a different path in your journey?” Patricia replied, “I would be living in Spain and dancing flamenco.” To the question “If you could build anything, what would it be?” Patricia replied, “Housing for all the homeless in Vancouver.”

To the question “If you could take a picture with any person, past or present, who would it be and why?” Patricia replied, “Antonio Banderas because he is so good looking.” Patricia retired from LFA in 2012, but we kept in close touch. Many walks in Southlands, along Spanish Banks and of course around False Creek. Many cups of tea and coffee and lots of great conversations. She was interested in you and also very interesting. Visiting her Granville Island condo was like walking into an art gallery, with paintings on the wall or one in progress, and of course the dining room table covered with the wonderful pieces of jewellery she created. Sometimes on a bike ride I would drop by in case we could have a visit, and I could enjoy the oasis that was her garden. I would like to conclude with an experience that we had in Nerja, Spain on one of our school trips. One evening, after we ensured that the LFA students had been safely tucked in at their homestays, we decided to go to a restaurant in Nerja where a well-known guitarist sang nightly to a statue of the Virgin. We walked in and sat down at a table. The guitarist took one look at Patricia and, not to be disrespectful to Mary, but he now found a new woman to serenade. Patricia was beautiful inside and out and I miss her very much.

LFA teacher, Anamaria Espinel's remarks at Patricia's Celebration of Life: I am heartbroken about the loss of our beautiful Patricia. She was not just an exceptional educator, but a truly beautiful soul and generous person who led life with beautiful colour, compassion, and integrity. Thank you for passing on to me your love of teaching the Spanish language and culture here in Vancouver. I admire how dedicated and artistic a person you were, teaching Spanish classes at UBC, Langara College, and at Little Flower Academy. I see you always in my classes by my side, singing your songs that we sang together, making Uruguayan mate, talking about el carnaval de Uruguay, making salsa and guacamole, ceviche, dancing salsa, tango, merengue and cumbia, and much more with our students.

member can give. Your guidance, creativity, hard work, and encouragement will stay with me always. You are now the legacy I continue to pass along in my classes, bringing your passion for teaching the cultures of Latin America and Spain to my students. I deeply miss you, and you will be forever in my heart. Te quiero y extrano mi Mariposa Azul. Memories from Patricia's former students: Spanish was always one of my favourite classes. Ms. Martin gave me the space I needed to improve on a language that I grew up hearing. It wasn't until starting her class that I actually learned how to properly speak and write. My highlight in her class would be our trip to Spain. It was an unforgettable, cultural experience forever ingrained in my memory. As a teacher today, I can appreciate the amount of time and planning that would have gone into making it a success. Gracias por todo, Señora Martin! - Elaine Chong '00 Señora Martin made me excited to start learning Spanish. I remember her enthusiasm and passion for language and teaching and I especially remember when she took our class out to experience real Spanish cuisine at a local restaurant. It was certainly a highlight to go out together and get to order and speak in Spanish. She will be greatly missed. - Emily Cordonier '01 I remember Ms. Martin as full of life and love. I loved her as a teacher during my time at LFA, but I also remember her after graduation. She reached out to me as I was in Engineering at UBC and after graduation from UBC. She would invite me to talk to her class about a career in engineering. She always felt it was important that her students had role models in career paths that are not traditionally female. She genuinely cared about her students. I will think of her fondly and as a great role model and example. My best to her family. - Kate Patterson '02

Ms. Martin played a meaningful role in my LFA experience. Her passion for teaching Spanish was matched by her dedication to introducing us to the depth of Hispanic culture, history, and contemporary issues. She shared her Uruguayan heritage with genuine pride, and it left a lasting impression on all of us. Some of my favourite memories include the Spring Break trip she led to Cuernavaca, Mexico, where her commitment to immersive learning truly stood out. I remain grateful to Señora Martin for everything she taught us, both in and beyond the classroom. She will be remembered with great affection by everyone whose lives she touched. - Margarita Carlos '02 Cover page: Patricia Martin, 2010 staff photo. Insert: Patricia with LFA students at Machu Picchu on a school trip to Peru in 2010. Top right: Patricia with student Chantal Coschizza '10 ... and the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics torch. Below: Patricia and Ali McGillivray pose with LFA students on the Spanish coast while on a school trip to Spain in 2012.

You created a beautiful program for us to teach, and we all felt the love and caring that a family 41

10 Years Ago

CLASS OF

Hail to thee our alma mater where we spent our student days... It all came flooding back as we walked through the hallowed halls of Little Flower Academy with Darryl, the organizer of this amazing tour! We saw our Grade 12 classroom where we were taught by Sister O’Sullivan, the keyboarding rooms which are now counsellor suites, the textile room that still smells the same as it did 55 years ago. We saw the foods lab where we made Chicken à la King, the old Gym, where we played volleyball and basketball, had many dances, and where we sat on stage on graduation day in our white robes and caps with bouquets of red roses on our laps and dreams in our hearts. We are back now to relive our past, but also regale in the present LFA, with the new wing containing a beautiful new library, an art room that is extraordinary and a cafeteria with an actual chef! We also saw the future LFA with the construction of the newest wing that will house the new classrooms, labs, and a rooftop tennis court! The alumnae of the past and the students of the present and future will all be touched by their time at LFA as we were. Still, 55 years later, we gather at reunions every five years to talk about old times, the adventures we had, the teachers we loved, the mischief we got into, the education we got, but mostly the friendships we made! Friendships that are lasting a lifetime! All Hail to LFA! - Marta Adamovich '71

'71

55th REUNION

CLASS OF

'75

50th REUNION

A lovely reunion On November 21st, 2025, the Class of 1975 gathered at LFA for their 50th reunion! It was a grand old time for all, as the classmates shared stories, enjoyed snacks and refreshments, and reminisced about their time at LFA all in the comfort of the school library. Highlights of the evening included walking around the old classrooms, and enjoying the slideshow that featured old photos from their days at LFA. If you have a reunion year coming up and would like to inquire about hosting your reunion at LFA and how we can help, be sure to email us at alumnae@lfabc.org.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

JEN ROGERS '14

After graduating from LFA, I went to UBC and completed a Bachelor of Science degree. During university, I did a semester abroad in Dublin, Ireland. After graduation, I went on a working holiday in Sydney, Australia, where I worked at a wildlife rehabilitation centre. I am currently a Restoration Biologist with the BC Wildlife Federation. I specialize in a type of ecosystem restoration that works with the natural engineering abilities of beavers. Our team builds handmade structures called Beaver Dam Analogues (BDAs) to help restore wetlands and watersheds. At the end of the summer, I will be moving from the Lower Mainland to Prince George with my boyfriend. I played field hockey throughout high school, university, and beyond. While I don't think there are any field hockey leagues in Prince George, I'm looking forward to getting more involved in cross-country skiing and exploring the outdoors in northern BC.

WENDY CHIM '97

After leaving LFA I’ve been busy building a career, raising a family, and collecting stories. I’ve travelled a bit, learned a lot through trial and error, celebrated some wins, and survived some challenges. Currently, I’m working as a CPA and busy raising two amazing kids—my sweet, hardworking daughter, who just finished Grade 8 at LFA, and my kind, creative son, who will be heading into Grade 4. They keep me on my toes, make me laugh every day, and are truly the centre of my world. I have so many memories from my time at LFA! Field hockey, school dances, London and Paris in Grade 10, setting a small fire in Chemistry 11, perfecting cheese scones in Home Economics, getting my grad sweater…. and after all that, I am lucky to have ended up with lifelong friends I will forever be grateful for.

Travelling to the UK with the field hockey team in Grade 12 is one of my favourite LFA memories. Although we got thoroughly outplayed on the field, we had a lot of fun and made some great memories. One highlight was having dinner in an old castle, where we dressed up as knights and ladies for the evening. Editor's note: Hey, Jen (and Sierra and Angelica).... look what we found in the archives! March, 2014 at St. Briavel's Castle, England.

KATHY YAMASAKI '70

After leaving LFA, I did my BA (Fine Arts major) and teacher training at UBC. I taught elementary school in the Richmond School District from 1975 until my retirement in 2017. Languages have always been a passion, and I did workshops and two teacher summer programs in Quebec so that I could teach French as a Second Language. With a love for travel, I took the summer after my first year of teaching to see Europe (11 countries in 28 days!). It was a taste of what was to come. I married my husband Brian in 1981 and we have an amazing family. Jason, Jen (LFA, Class of 2006) and Jeff have given us so much joy and adventure through the years. We have a granddaughter, Eliza, who is full of curiosity, energy and so much fun! My life "mantra" has always been, "have suitcase, will travel" and retirement has allowed Brian and I to cruise the world. We've loved every minute and have met people on the ships who have become lifelong friends. This year we had our 55-year reunion. We reminisced about our times in both elementary (sports days, the library above the cafeteria, nuns in their habits, May Days around the grotto, the "baby" basement under the convent, our Grade 5 teacher from Australia) and high school (typing class, sports teams, coffee house nights, taking the bus to VC for Chemistry, dances, grad, plays at Metro Theatre, choir, high school "antics"). It was a wonderful gathering full of laughter, reconnection and joy.

PATRICE BANTING '05

After leaving LFA it was lots of school and travel. I completed my undergraduate degree in Commerce at the Sauder School of Business at UBC. These days I’m busy with work, family, volunteering, and sports. I work at Crofton House School. I am on the administrative team and oversee the operational, staffing and financial processes for the school. Outside of work, I train with my dragon boat team and travel during the school breaks. I have so many fond memories from my time at LFA. Teachers, friends, teams and teammates, and the moments: I loved travelling for tournaments with my volleyball, basketball, and tennis teams. There were long travel days with not a lot of sleep. We won a few games along the way as well!

ANDREA ADAMOVICH '70

After leaving LFA I went to UBC on a scholarship and quit after two years to work as a research assistant in order to make money to travel to Europe with fellow alum Barbara Gorman '70 for five months. Then I went back to UBC Botanical Gardens as a research assistant and met Gabriel Von Szohner, an artist and Baron from Hungary. So, I became the Baroness Von Szohner and had two sons, Dane and Byron Szohner.

I loved my years at LFA. I met many friends who I still see regularly. We went through a time of transition: LFA took on two Vietnam War protesters to teach us; some of us went to Vancouver College to take sciences; we explored other religions to expand our horizons; the Sisters changed to civilian clothes; and our Grade 11 class took on a project to change the uniform from the tunics to plaid skirts and sweaters.

I became a single mom soon thereafter and raised them on my own. I went to school at nights and became a property manager and worked my way up in my career to become the Regional Manager, Asset Management Unit, RCMP. I am now retired and living in the River District on the Fraser River. I am spending time supporting my sons. Dane Warren is a singer and entertainer along with his partner Mandy Rushton. I go to many of his shows and have seen him in various theatrical performances. Byron married his wife, Nadine, and they live together in Berlin with my only grandson, Gabriel. I visit them every two years for an extended vacation. I've been lucky to travel to the Australian Open, Venice and Crete and plan more travels. I have organized a few reunions to keep in touch with the grads of 1970 It's always so interesting to find out about their present lives. I love to golf and have often won ladies longest drive at tournaments.

WHERE ARE THEY? Is there an LFA alumna you'd love to hear from again? Want to catch up on their story? Email alumnae@lfabc.org to let us know and we will do our best to feature them in our next "Where Are They Now?"

Nana Frimpong '14 — The Eyes of Ghana AUTHOR: KATIE LARSON I was instantly excited when I saw an email in my inbox from LFA alumna Nana Frimpong '14. Having worked with her on Student Council and taught her 20th Century History 12, Nana always stood out as someone with exceptional leadership qualities and thoughtful, unique insights. Her email invited members of her Vancouver community to a private screening of her latest film, The Eyes of Ghana, at UBC in September 2025. LFA librarian Mary Duffy, Religion/Drama/Creative Writing teacher Simone Bazille, and I all eagerly RSVP’d. The Eyes of Ghana had premiered earlier in the year at the Toronto International Film Festival. The film explores the friendship between Chris Hesse—personal cameraman to Ghana’s first prime minister and president following decolonization—and Anita Afonu, a Ghanaian filmmaker working to bring Hesse’s extraordinary archival footage to a wider audience. The film weaves together restored colour footage with a deeply human, intergenerational story. From the outset, viewers were treated to a special recorded message from executive producers Barack and Michelle Obama—a particularly meaningful moment, especially remembering Nana dressing up as 48

Michelle Obama one Halloween during her high school years. As the film unfolded, audiences were immersed in stunning cinematography; each frame felt like a work of art. I especially appreciated learning more about the history of Ghana, a country that receives little attention in Canadian curricula. Particularly striking were images of Kwame Nkrumah alongside figures such as John F. Kennedy, Nikita Khrushchev, and Gamal Abdel Nasser. Images of Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King Jr. underscored Nkrumah’s role in the global civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s. Known as “The Eyes of Ghana,” Chris Hesse documented the president’s life day in and day out, capturing state visits, international diplomacy, and national celebrations. At the same time, the film does not shy away from complexity. Some characterized Nkrumah’s government as a dictatorship, and subsequently he was later overthrown in a military-backed coup. Nana’s film thoughtfully explores the complicated relationship between power and humanity, using Hesse’s footage to examine both his legacy and the perspectives of a new generation of Ghanaian filmmakers.

Cover page: Chris Hesse in The Eyes of Ghana. Top left: Nana photographed at ADIFF 2025. Above: Simone Bazille, Katie Larson, Nana Frimpong '14, and Mary Duffy posing together at a screening of The Eyes of Ghana at UBC. Left: The Eyes of Ghana filmmakers—subject and producer Anita Afonu, left, director Ben Proudfoot, cinematographer Brandon Somerhalder and producer Nana Frimpong '14—at the Toronto Film Festival. Below: Nana, all smiles and eager to learn at LFA in April, 2013.

During the Q&A session following the screening, Nana responded to thoughtful questions about the challenges of filming primarily in Africa and portraying a controversial political figure with nuance. As she spoke, I was reminded of a note she had written before beginning her film studies at the University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts. In that note, Nana shared her goal of using film to illuminate worlds both similar to and different from her own, and to portray diverse individuals as fully realized human beings—imperfect, yet whole. The Eyes of Ghana powerfully achieves this vision, reminding viewers that history is never simple, and that people are complex, and storytelling is a powerful tool in creating shared histories and community. It was a truly fantastic evening to see the LFA alumnae community supporting and celebrating their former classmate, and to witness Nana fully embracing the school’s mission of leading an extraordinary life and answering God’s call to bring more light to the world.

It Takes a Sense of Humour: Patty (O’Leary ) Emry AUTHOR: CARLIE ERIN PAXTON '97

In the late 70s and early 80s Patty Emry helped shape the culture of athletics at Little Flower Academy. Teacher, coach, mentor, author, and lifelong champion of young people, Patty's impact extends far beyond wins and championships. Her story is one of resilience, faith, humor, and an unwavering belief in the power of relationships.

perseverance. "I could have played the sick card," she reflects. "Instead, I made a conscious decision not to let it define me." That decision led her to become a nationally certified ski instructor, a Pacific Northwest Slalom Ski Champion, a marathon runner, an educator, and one of the early influential coaches in Little Flower Academy history.

Born in Davenport, Iowa, in 1950, Patty's early life was marked by both challenge and change. The O'Leary family moved frequently as her father worked for Scott Paper, eventually settling in British Columbia when Patty was six years old. Born an identical twin, she experienced profound loss early in life when her twin sister, Catherine Marie O'Leary, passed away at just four months old.

The Influence of Faith and Education Patty's deep Catholic faith was nurtured by the Sisters of St. Ann throughout her education. She attended Little Flower Academy in Grade 1, left the school briefly and came back from Grade 3-7. As a student, she often struggled academically while managing her health challenges, but she remembers the extraordinary support she received from the Sisters.

Patty's own health journey would become a defining part of her story. She was born with multiple congenital difficulties—underdeveloped digestive, urinary and reproductive systems. Doctors were skeptical she would survive but her parents did not give up on the medical system. After groundbreaking operations as an infant, doctors were able to reconstruct her digestive organs. Patty refused to allow her circumstances to define her. Rather than embracing the role of victim, she chose determination, faith, and 50

She speaks fondly of Sister Mary Lucinda, her Grade 1 teacher, who ended each school day by giving every student a hug and sharing one specific positive thing she had noticed about them that day. She also remembers Sister Mary Annaly, her Grade 7 teacher, who brought energy and excitement to lunch break with her “first out, first up” motto—where the first student to touch home base when the bell rang earned the chance to be the first batter in the lunchtime baseball game.

These early experiences left a lasting impression on Patty and helped shape her own philosophy as a teacher. "I always wanted every student to feel loved," she says. "Human connection matters." Her passion for sport led her to Wenatchee Valley College, where she met her future husband, Greg. At the time, Greg was attending on a football scholarship, while Patty was there on a ski scholarship. After two years, Patty transferred to Central Washington University in Ellensburg, where she earned a degree in Physical Education with a minor in the Arts. During her time at Central, she continued to develop as an athlete and began shaping the coaching philosophy that would come to define her career. Building a Championship Culture Patty arrived at Little Flower Academy in 1976, already deeply connected to the school through her brief stay and her husband Greg, who taught and coached at Vancouver College, and through the broader Catholic school community. "I was in love with the school before I even came to work here," she says. She is quick to credit those who came before her, particularly Coach Dan Paxton. "Dan built the foundation. He was coaching five teams in one season. We built on the foundation he had already laid down”.

Together they embraced a simple philosophy: build, build, build. The results were remarkable. Patty coached volleyball and track and field. She organized summer camps, club teams, weekend training sessions, and early morning practices. Future coaches and alumnae such as Joanne Boreham '76 returned to help strengthen the program and mentor younger athletes. Joanne was instrumental in winning the 1981 Volleyball Championship. "We put in countless hours," Patty says. "The success wasn't accidental." Her coaching philosophy centered on relationships and accountability. She took attendance at every practice, communicated closely with athletes, and continually challenged them to think for themselves. "What do you want?" she would ask. "Do you want to be pushed? Do you want to be competitive or recreational?" Rather than simply giving answers, Patty encouraged athletes to take ownership of their goals and development. Provincial Champions and Lasting Memories Among her many coaching memories, one stands above the rest. After capturing a provincial volleyball championship at Elphinstone, Patty and her team boarded the school's famous red-and-white van and began the journey home. "The team was singing 'We Are the Champions' all the way back to Vancouver," she remembers. At one point, star athlete Carolynne Adam '78 wrapped her arm around Patty and said, "Are you aware we are provincial champions?" It was a moment that represented years of dedication, sacrifice, and teamwork. By then, Little Flower Academy had established itself as a respected provincial competitor. The program's reputation was built through countless hours of training and a shared commitment to excellence. Yet for Patty, the championships were never the most important part. "The best part was watching students grow," she says. "Watching them learn, gain confidence, and become leaders."

around her during difficult circumstances, treating her not simply as a coach, but as a valued member of their team. "The courage to accept your challenges is important," she says. "Everyone has something they're dealing with." The book's title reflects the mindset that carried her through adversity: faith, resilience, and a healthy sense of humour. A Lasting Legacy Today, Patty's influence can still be felt throughout the Little Flower Academy community. Her former athletes remember demanding practices, high expectations, and championship teams. More importantly, they remember the hugs, the encouragement, the laughter, and the feeling that someone genuinely believed in them. When asked what advice she would offer future teachers and coaches, her answer reflects the values that guided her entire career: "Build relationships first." It is a philosophy she learned from the Sisters of St. Ann, strengthened through decades of teaching and coaching, and passed on to generations of students. For Patty Emry, success was never measured by banners, medals, or championships. It was measured by the lives she touched, the confidence she built, and the community she helped create. And perhaps that is why her legacy continues to endure. To this day, Patty frequently subs in the Catholic School System and contributes as a Track and Field Coach at St. Thomas More Collegiate. She loves painting, music and dancing. She spends lots of time with her three children and grandchildren. As Patty's life story reminds us, sometimes the greatest victories come not from avoiding adversity, but from facing it with courage, faith, and, of course, a sense of humour.

Cover page, left: Patty on a recent visit to LFA. Cover page, right: Patty during a school assembly in 1978. Top right: Patty posing with the historic LFA stained rose windows on a recent visit to LFA. Above: Patty in her Grade 1 class picture. Can you spot her? Below: Patty and the Provincial Champion 1978 Senior Volleyball Team.

It Takes a Sense of Humour In 2014, Patty shared her personal story in her memoir, It Takes a Sense of Humour. The book chronicles her lifelong health challenges, the loss of her twin sister, and the many obstacles she faced while pursuing her dreams. More importantly, it offers encouragement to others facing hidden disabilities and personal struggles. "If you look to your left and look to your right," she says, "someone is dealing with something they aren't talking about." Patty wrote the book to help people feel less alone. Throughout her teaching and coaching career, she was open about her own challenges, believing that vulnerability created connection. She recalls moments when students rallied 51

The Stellings: LFA's Field Hockey Family AUTHOR: ALI MCGILLIVRAY The Stelling Family has boasted not one, not two, but three incredible Field Hockey Angels in Mikayla, Shannon, and Amy Stelling. This summer, I had the opportunity to ask a few questions of these Angels, their brother Jason, who goes to Point Grey Secondary, as well as their parents Brandon and Sally, to find out how this family of high-performance athletes makes it all work. Team sports are an important part of extracurricular life at LFA. Many players, encouraged by their positive experience at the school, continue to participate in community leagues after graduation. Others, like Mikayla Stelling ’21, Shannon Stelling ’24 and Amy Stelling ‘26 go on after high school to compete on university and national teams. The Stelling children come by their athleticism naturally. Sally Stelling played high-level squash and netball at school and is an endurance athlete who twice ran the grueling 88km Comrades Marathon in South Africa. Brandon played field hockey as a high school student, then was asked to play cricket for UK clubs for four years. He has now returned to the field hockey pitch, both as a player in the Vancouver Men’s league, and as a coach for the Hawks 52

1st division women’s team. Brandon will also be representing Canada in the World Masters World Cup in Europe in July. Both parents enjoy the time they spend at games and practices because they say it is an opportunity for them to enjoy quality time together. They like team sports for what they teach their children. Things like commitment, showing up for peers, learning how to deal with team dynamics in positive as well as in challenging times, are all valuable life lessons. The Stellings did not really intend for their kids to play at an elite level. It happened over time and once Mikayla started down that path, the others wanted to follow. I had the opportunity to ask Brandon and Sally some questions about their experiences as parents of elite athletes. What advice do you have for parents whose children wish to play sports at an elite level? We would suggest encouraging multi-sport engagement and not specializing too soon. Focus on basic fitness and agility and learn to enjoy movement and sports of any kind as these are crucial to development. Ultimately, we want our children to be physically active and stay engaged with sport for the rest of their lives. Leading by example is also important as parents need to be active too!

It can be tough to watch the roller coaster of emotions that go with elite (or any level of) sport, so being supportive and cheering them on is crucial. Reminding the kids to focus on what’s in their control and learn from every experience would be our key suggestion. Kids don’t always want our advice or opinions though, so choose wisely what you share. Sometimes a hug is all they need! What are your emotions as you watch your children in a field hockey match? Anyone who has watched the Stelling parents at any game will know that we both pace. Sally watches a bit more easily, while Brandon wants to hide away. We know our children’s potential and watching a high stakes game is emotionally draining, to say the least. Mikayla is a current member of Field Hockey Canada’s (FHC) Senior Women’s National team. Shannon is presently playing Varsity hockey for UBC and has been on FHC’s Junior National U21 team since 2024. A memorable moment for these two sisters was when they were able to play on the same Canadian squad at the Junior Pan American Games. Amy, who graduated from LFA this past June, is a member of FHC’s Next Generation training team, has played

Cover page: The Stelling family. Top left: Mikayla in her first Canadian national team appearance at the international level. Above: Shannon representing Canada at the 2026 Junior Pan American Championships. Left: Amy in action at the 2024 Bridgman Tournament in Victoria.

for Team BC’s U18 and U16 teams, and will join Shannon on the Thunderbird field hockey team this September. Jason is on Field Hockey BC’s U17 team and also plays rugby and tennis. The first experience of team sports for all four Stelling children was soccer. Brandon told me that the girls could have played this sport at a high level but Ben Fitch’s coaching at LFA inspired them down the path of field hockey. Despite busy schedules, the younger Stellings took the time to respond to my questions about their field hockey experiences. How do you support each other? We support each other by training and practicing together at the field, cheering each other on at games, giving rides to practices or tournaments, and offering encouragement. It is special to all share the same passion for field hockey, and to also share an understanding of the game. We are also all extremely grateful for our parents’ support, which enables us to pursue our hockey dreams. What do you think sports can teach you? The most important lesson we’ve learned is resilience. Sports teach you to handle pressure, remain disciplined, focus on what you can control, and to always demonstrate kindness

and respect. We’ve all faced moments of disappointment, injury, or doubt, and our ability to recover from these moments (and support each other through them) is what truly matters and will carry us through life. What are some challenges that you face as elite athletes? One of the biggest challenges is how to manage and balance the demands that come with training, school, travel, and competition. However, despite our busy schedules, there is always time to relax with close friends, many of whom are teammates. What tips do you have for young athletes who aim to compete at a high level? 1. Make time for what you love and for the people that you love. 2. Plan ahead as much as possible and have early communication with coaches, teachers and professors, family, and friends. 3. Accept that you won’t be able to do everything perfectly and that you can only do your personal best in the moment. 4. Mindset and understanding your ‘why' behind what you do. 5. Using training as a mental break and studying as a physical break.

Studies have shown that children whose parents have an affinity for sports are likely to participate as well. This is clearly the case for Mikayla, Shannon, Amy, and Jason who have demonstrated their ability and love for field hockey. Coaching, of course, also plays an important part in the development of athletes and Brandon and Sally wanted to make sure that Ben Fitch was recognized in this article. He has coached all four of their children and was instrumental in developing Mikayla into a high-performance athlete. Amy, in an email to me, wrote, “Mr. Fitch has been an incredible coach who has helped develop me as a player. The LFA trip to the UK this spring break has been my favourite field hockey tour so far. He pushes all his players to the best of their ability and has been one of the best coaches I have had.” One of Mikayla’s most memorable moments as an athlete was singing the national anthem while earning her first cap for Canada (her first official appearance for the Canadian national team at the international level). I am confident that the LFA community will continue to see the Stelling name on the back of many national field hockey jerseys in the future. 53

Distinguished Alumnae 2 0 2 6

Little Flower Academy is very excited to celebrate our 2026 Distinguished Alumnae inductees, Mary Margaret Mackinnon ’75 and Kathleen S. Jayme '06. Our inductees this year share a deep reverence for their vocations, they are

united by their drive to bring empathy and humanity to their work, and in doing so fostering understanding and lifting up the voices of others.

Mary Margaret Mackinnon '75 Mary Margaret Mackinnon ‘75 is a dedicated lawyer and mediator with nearly four decades of practice in civil litigation and dispute resolution. She has approached her career with a humane and faith-first approach that is truly exemplary. Mary Margaret received her BA from the University of British Columbia, her Bachelor of Laws from the University of Victoria, and her Master of Laws from Cambridge University. She was called to the British Columbia Bar in 1986 and in 2021 she received the prestigious King’s Counsel designation, a provincial honour that recognizes contributions made that strengthen the functioning of the legal system. Nominated by her peers for the designation, it is an affirmation of the significant contributions Mary Margaret made to the judicial system throughout her career. Working as an Associate at Guild Yule and Company, Mary Margaret practiced civil and insurance litigation, appearing before all levels of court in British Columbia. As a Partner at the company, she led complex civil litigation and insurance law cases with a focus on dispute

resolution, while maintaining a respected reputation for professionalism, client advocacy, and integrity. In 2024, Mary Margaret began her own mediation practice, MMM Mediations, where she conducts mediation in civil, commercial, and insurance matters, applying her extensive legal experience to facilitate fair, efficient resolutions. For more than 30 years, Mary Margaret acted as general counsel to the Archdiocese of Vancouver and the Catholic school board of the archdiocese. She has also advised the Diocese of Victoria, Whitehorse, and MacKenzie-Fort Smith. She has been involved in discussions with the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops and worked extensively on Catholic legal issues both in Canada and the United States. Core to Mary Margaret’s work in these fields has been lecturing on matters of the intersection between law and faith. By upholding truth, justice, and humanity throughout her career, Mary Margaret has crafted a legacy whose impact and example will endure.

Kathleen S. Jayme '06 Kathleen S. Jayme ’06 is an award-winning filmmaker whose work in documentary filmmaking has revealed the humanity behind headlines and invited audiences to see her subjects with a deeper and fuller understanding. Kathleen’s filmmaking journey began at Little Flower Academy, where she always had a camera in her hand. As president of the student council, Kathleen and her team created films for school assemblies. Her classmates were her first stars, her first audience, and remain some of her biggest fans. It was in the halls of LFA that she first discovered the power of storytelling to bring people together. After studying Film Production at the University of British Columbia and working at the National Film Board of Canada, Kathleen made the leap to direct her own films. Her debut film, Finding Big Country (2018), reintroduced reclusive former NBA player Bryant Reeves to the public with empathy and care. In The Grizzlie Truth (2022), she sought answers about the departure of the Vancouver Grizzlies and persuaded NBA star Steve Francis to share his story on camera for the first time. 56

In ESPN’s legendary series “30 for 30”, she co-directed I’m Just Here for the Riot (2023), a film which examined not only the 2011 Vancouver hockey riots but the impact of online social shaming. In Naomi Osaka: The Second Set (2025), she followed the four-time Grand Slam champion through motherhood and return to competition, exploring strength, vulnerability, and the power of women redefining success. As a female director in a traditionally male-dominated genre, Kathleen continues to expand the space for women’s stories in sport, including projects on the 2025 Canadian Women’s Rugby Team and Canada’s first WNBA team, the Toronto Tempo. Throughout her career, Kathleen has demonstrated that her vocation is both a privilege and a responsibility. By leading with empathy, courage, and authentic human connection, she has created deeply impactful work that has not only garnered accolades but will continue to inspire and leave a lasting legacy.

Top: Kat Jayme '06 back at LFA, sharing a moment with our students while filming The Grizzlie Truth in the LFA Auditorium (2022). Left: Mary Margaret Mackinnon '75 on stage at the 2026 Distinguished Alumnae Ceremony, with fellow alumna Corilee Cotter '70. Above: Mary Margaret Mackinnon '75 giving a guest lecture to students in Law 12 in April (2026).

NOMINATE AN ALUMNA Is there someone in the LFA community (past or present) who you believe should be recognized for their distinguished efforts? All of our Distinguished Alumnae are nominated by fellow alumnae. Make your nomination today at www.lfabc.org/Distinguished

SCHOOL SPIRIT

Amelia King '27: National Poetry Champion On April 28, Amelia King '27 won first place in the English category of the Poetry in Voice National Finals—a national recitation contest held at Le Diamant Theatre in Quebec City. Leading up to the National Finals, more than 10,000 students across the country participated in their school recitation contests as well as the online qualifiers. Of these, the top 24 advanced to the virtual semifinals, after which nine finalists were invited to Quebec City to recite before an audience of nearly 600 people. The competition was extremely fierce, with the finalists delivering captivating recitations by both classic and contemporary poets, such as Robert Creeley, Bronwen Wallace, Andrea Thompson, and Aja Monet. 60

Hundreds of students from schools from the Quebec City, Lévis, and Portneuf areas, as well as from the Estrie and Lanaudière regions, gave a warm round of applause for each finalist’s impressive performance. Amelia delivered a moving performance of Gwendolyn MacEwen’s “A Breakfast for Barbarians” and Andrea Thompson’s “Enigma” that the esteemed panel of award-winning poets from across Canada deemed worthy of the competition's top prize! Reflecting on her experience, Amelia had this to say: “The trip itself was an unforgettable experience! I had the chance to meet so many wonderful people, including some incredibly talented and accomplished Canadian poets. I also got

to try my hand at French with my Québécois roommate! It was truly the most incredible experience and I feel so honoured, and grateful to have been a part of it. I’m really looking forward to helping coach poetry next year and giving back to LFA.” While the Poetry in Voice competition took place over several weeks in the spring, Amelia’s journey to the top prize began way back in 2022 when she first arrived at LFA. “I remember when I first came to LFA, I found the library to be such an appealing place. I remember just being in awe when I first walked through the library doors that this place existed within the school,” Amelia reminisced.

Having been an avid participant in speech arts since kindergarten, Amelia came to LFA with an innate love for performance. Lucky for her, Ms. Duffy and our Public Speaking program were ready to nurture that love, and see it grow. Amelia credits LFA for never siloing her into one thing, “LFA has always been so open no matter what you’re interested in. Even if you’re not that interested, you’re encouraged to just drop by and check things out.” As someone who self identifies as a “science student but also an arts student,” it was precisely this openness that LFA fostered that made Amelia stick around the school library and try her hand at Poetry in Voice. Through her junior years at LFA, Amelia was one of those 10,000 kids who took part in Poetry in Voice but didn’t quite qualify for the next level. Those years didn’t go to waste however—Amelia still fondly remembers the LFA seniors who helped encourage and inspire her as she found her place and voice at the school. Her mentors included Chloe Lam ‘23, Audrey Braun ‘23, Raine Gurton ‘24, and Samantha Chan ’24. It was in the Poetry in Voice competition that took place in 2025 that Amelia saw the first fruit of her labour, as she qualified for the semi-final round, making it to the top 24 of the competition. While determined to make it to the finals, Amelia came up short. Looking back today, she sees it as a blessing in disguise—a necessary step to propel her to the next level. Coming into the 2026 competition, Amelia was eager to scour the list of eligible poems and find what spoke to her. After thoughtful consideration she arrived at Gwendolyn McEwen’s “A Breakfast for Barbarians” and Andrea Thompson’s “Enigma”. “I chose them because they were so different and I wanted a bit of contrast. Engima is about self-identity and learning who you are as a person and what you are, and A Breakfast for Barbarians is about the insatiable thirst for knowledge. They are both things I have personally related to,” Amelia reflected.

Quebec City. Amelia kept the competition fresh for herself by never committing to a meticulous version of her performance, instead leaving room for inspiration to come to her at any moment. “While I did have certain things I wanted to emphasize in each performance, it was going to be a little bit different each time I performed it because I didn’t have everything fully mapped out. I had general ideas of how I wanted things to fit in. For the actual performance I was really nervous, but I actually felt like the adrenaline helped the performance. That was the best time I performed it, right after I finished, I just had the biggest smile on my face cause I knew I had done the best I could.” Next up for Amelia is a summer trip to London, to perform as part of Poetry in Voice’s international showcase, at the hallowed Globe Theatre—also known as Shakespeare’s Globe. Amelia recalls thinking she was receiving a spam email at first, until follow-up emails came in and she realized the truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that she was being offered. As she looks forward to her senior year at LFA, Amelia’s main focus is giving back to the community and program that embraced her. “I want to help the younger kids to use the advice that I’ve been given to see if I can help inspire anybody. I want to be that mentor that I had in Grade 8.” We couldn’t be more proud of Amelia’s amazing performance at this year’s Poetry in Voice competition, and the grace and gratitude she has shown in the wake of her great accomplishment. If you want to check out Amelia’s performance for yourself her recitation is available on the official Poetry in Voice YouTube channel “@PIVLVP”.

Cover page: Amelia at the 2026 Poetry in Voice National Finals in Quebec City with her fellow winners. Above: Amelia at the North Shore Catholic Schools' Speech Arts Festival in 2017. Below: Amelia and all the finalists at the 2026 Poetry in Voice National Finals.

Speaking to the disparate nature of her poem choices, Amelia considered how LFA encouraged the duality of her choices and that within herself. “I’m a person who has various interests in a lot of different things and I think the reason why LFA is so great is it doesn’t put you in a box; it doesn’t say you’re a science student and you’re an arts student and you can’t mix. For me, I’m both and I have things that I love about both and things that I don’t, and that’s ultimately why I chose such different poems.” Once the competition actually began, it was success after success for Amelia as she smoothly sailed through each stage of the competition, from the recitation at LFA, to the virtual semi-final round, to the live finals in 61

LFA Shines at UBC's Physics Olympics LFA's Physics Olympics team has another stellar showing at UBC's annual Physics Olympics competition, continuing a trend of STEAM-related excellence for our student body.

With another strong showcase at this year’s Physics Olympics competition at UBC, LFA’s STEAM program has proven to be one of the province’s finest and brightest. With more and more of our students opting for STEAM subjects and extracurricular clubs, our Angels are proving that girls are every bit as capable and suited for STEAM-based fields as anyone. The LFA Physics Olympics Design Team competed in UBC’s Annual Physics Olympics Competition on Saturday, February 28, 2026. The team shattered the glass ceiling, proving that LFA girls can compete toe‑to‑toe with the biggest schools in the arena of mechanical design, engineering, applied science, mechatronics, and programming—all essential skills in this year’s competition. The team’s strongest performance of the day was a silver medal in the pendulum launcher event after competing against 83 other secondary schools. The UBC Physics, Astronomy, and Engineering Physics (PHAS) faculty has hosted their Physics Olympics event for 48 consecutive years. In 62

mid‑December 2025, UBC PHAS provided a rulebook outlining two pre‑build challenges. Each secondary school team used the same rulebook to design and build their devices before bringing them to UBC to compete. This year, teams were tasked with building a pendulum launcher capable of harnessing the energy of a swinging pendulum to launch a hacky sack as far as possible. The second challenge required teams to design a pole‑climbing robot that could climb a 150cm PVC pole. It had to ascend the pole, detect the top, stop, and then descend without hitting the bottom. Changes in acceleration had to be minimal, as did vibration. These were measured by a sensor. The two pre‑build projects were divided into smaller tasks, each pursued by a smaller student sub‑team. These sub‑teams had to collaborate and communicate constantly to coordinate their designs toward the larger goal. For example, the frame and wheel of the pole climber depended on the choice of electric motor.

Students found these challenges exceptionally difficult: UBC gave them only a set of rules, with no rubric, no sequential instructions, no explanations, no sample completed projects and no clear direction forward. There were countless possible solutions to each challenge. Pursuing an idea for weeks without knowing whether it will work is an uncomfortable experience that most students rarely face. UBC Physics Olympics is not a typical school project where last year’s examples exist and the path from start to completion is linear and clear. Each year, the challenges are both exceptionally challenging and completely different. In the pole climber challenge especially, the team had to abandon weeks of work multiple times after realizing that a long‑pursued idea simply would not work. Yet it is precisely this discomfort— combined with the pressure of competition—that fosters teamwork, builds true resilience, and fuels genuine growth. Among the many hands‑on skills they developed, students learned in real time how

Cover page: LFA's 2026 UBC Physics Olmypics Design team at UBC. Top left: The design team doing early ideation work. Top right: The design team works on perfecting their pole-climbing robot. Above: The students pose with the STEAM Lab's laser cutter, a key resource. Right: The pendulum launcher team with their silver medals.

to push ahead when nothing was working, how to lean on your team for support, how to fail fast and fail often, how to welcome failure as a launchpad to success, and how to continually seek incremental improvements that add up to greater achievements.

responsible for all non‑safety‑related decisions and hands‑on work so that any success they realized would be entirely their own. As long as safety was not compromised, it was important to allow students to make bad decisions and see the consequences.

This was LFA’s tenth consecutive year participating in UBC’s Physics Olympics. The team’s performance was not the result of luck. They learned long ago that depending on luck is unreliable because luck swings both ways. Instead, students deliberately engineered luck out of the equation by refining their machines to perform predictably and reliably. Consistently placing within the top ten teams in the pre‑build events and within the top 20% overall out of 70–80 competing schools has become a norm for LFA.

When students lacked skills, they simply had to learn and practice them—quickly. No one saved them. No one gave them special accommodations. No one gave them extra time. No one went easy on them. Students competed on equal ground and square footing with all other teams. This particular group of students has proven that LFA girls can succeed and compete in this domain of applied science and engineering if that is their desire.

Stewarding the team’s success the entire way has been Mr. Chow. Mr. Chow’s role in the competition, as always, is to keep students safe, teach skills, and advise—but not to direct. Mr. Chow ensured that students were solely

the prestigious Schulich Leader Scholarship. Schulich Leader scholarships are Canada’s most coveted undergraduate STEM scholarships; of the over 300,000 applicants annually, only 100 Canadian high school students are awarded the scholarships at 20 partner universities across Canada. It’s thus no surprise that our Physics Olympics teams have performed so remarkably over the years and continue to prove themselves amongst the brightest engineering minds our province has to offer. As LFA looks forward to expanding our STEAM Lab into a STEAM Hub in the new campus, we’re excited to see how our students respond to the expanded resources and new opportunities that will come their way.

Our students’ interest and passion for STEAM has been a growing trend over the years. Spurred by the construction of our state-of-the-art STEAM Lab in 2018, LFA has seen so many of our students take to STEAM subjects with enthusiasm. So much so that in the past six years LFA has seen four graduating students receive 63

GRADUATION 2026

Celebrating the Class of 2026 This year’s Grad Liturgy and Ceremony were a joyous reminder of the extraordinary journeys our students have completed by the time they leave LFA as alumnae. Parents, family, and friends gathered in celebration to watch our graduates walk the stage and receive their diplomas. The room was filled with immense pride in the accomplishments of the Class of 2026. The Class of 2026 will be remembered for their grace and kind spirit, which saw them serve as brilliant role models for the rest of the student body. LFA will miss their infectious spirit as they set forth on the next chapter of their lives. Congratulations Class of 2026!

Valedictory Address AUTHOR: ELISE NGUYEN '26

We are pleased to share Elise Nguyen’s 2026 valedictory address.

role with the same purpose: We believed. We belonged. We became.

single person on this stage. for making high school unforgettable. Thank you.

Good afternoon, and welcome family, friends, faculty, members of the Jane Rowan Society, the Sisters of St. Ann, beloved guests, and of course, the Little Flower graduating class of 2026. So as this day has approached, I've been thinking about what it means that we are called Little Flower. Not something big or impressive, just Little Flower. And I think that’s exactly the point.

Here at Little Flower Academy, we weren’t just taught to think critically or write essays. We were taught how to grow. In classrooms where we struggled and messed up, we were also able to laugh and get up. Day by day, we became stronger than the little Grade 8s we came in as. And of course, none of us arrived here alone. The Sisters of St. Ann, our teachers, and this entire community had a vision for us. Not just to be the best at everything, but to become young women of faith, of character, women who face challenges and don’t back down when life gets hard.

Today, I look out and see 98 young women who refused to stop at no. 98 young women who were buried like seeds in difficulty and chose, again and again, to grow. And now we are finally blooming. The world we are stepping into is one that needs us, not just as graduates, but as women of empathy and determination. There are communities that need serving, voices that need amplifying, and places where our presence and our perspective matter. At Little Flower Academy, we have been formed in faith and in strength, and have been gifted with the tools to change the world.

To our parents and families you were our first teachers, you picked us up after every setback and told us to try again. You sacrificed for us in ways we are only beginning to understand, and loved us in ways we are only beginning to deserve. Thank you.

So as we go out, as students, leaders, daughters, and women of faith, we will definitely face new challenges, new seasons of waiting, and many, many more no's. Plans will change. Dreams may take longer than expected. And there will be moments when we once again question the path God gave us. In those moments, let’s imagine a flower. Remember that flowers don't grow all year round. Remember the times we started out as little seeds and how far we’ve bloomed.

If we imagine a flower, we usually think about the bloom. But what we often forget are the times that that seed was buried in the dirt, underground in harsh seasons, and the uncertainty of whether it would ever grow. Because when I look back, I think that’s exactly what these past five years have been. Not the perfect moments, but the hard ones. We all had late nights wondering if all our effort would be enough. We had setbacks, the “no’s,” we had prayers that didn’t come the way we begged God for. But, we still showed up. We showed up for each other in countless ways. At lunch during Open Mic, we clapped and cheered for singers and dancers. At assemblies, we exhausted ourselves with Just Dance. At the art shows, we showed up to praise each other's work, and bought tickets to choir concerts and theater productions. Some of us played on fields and courts, while the rest of us showed up in the stands. Whether on stage, backstage, or in the audience, we filled every

And to our teachers, you prepared us for exams, yes, but also for life. Thank you for seeing potential on days we couldn’t see it ourselves, and for refusing to let us settle for less than we were capable of. Thank you. And to my classmates, my sisters, there is not a single one of you I do not love. You turned hallways into memories, classrooms into homes, the lunchroom into a comedy show, and strangers into family. Whatever comes next, I want nothing but the absolute best for every

As St. Thérèse of Lisieux, the Little Flower herself, once wrote: "if every tiny flower wanted to be a rose. Spring would lose its loveliness.” We grads of 2026, are those flowers. And it is our time for spring. 65

GRADUATION 2026

Graduation 2026 WE ANSWER THE CALL TO BE WITNESSES OF THE LIGHT

GRADUATION 2026

A Beautiful Noise An LFA Choral Choir Concert

On Thursday, May 7, LFA’s Choral Choir performed their year-end show, “A Beautiful Noise” at UBC’s Chan Shun Concert Hall.

Taken all together, it was a wide and comprehensive display of the immense talent and creativity our students possess.

This year’s annual showcase was an incredibly special night. Not only was it a beautiful culminating event for our Senior Choir members, but all our student choirs performed with great passion in front of a packed crowd of family, friends, and alumnae. Under the guidance of our dedicated Music Director, Marizza Mislang, our LFA choirs made it an unforgettable night for all that were lucky to attend.

Musical accompaniments from acclaimed pianist Miri Lee, and percussionist Bruce Henczel helped bring the whole show together. One of the most exciting aspects of our ongoing construction and our new campus is the rehearsal and performance space it will afford our choir. In a little over a year our choir will be able to host such showcases right here at LFA!

The evening also featured a showcase of our gifted student musicians, with violinists, pianists, and cellists taking the stage, along with solo vocalists, and even a contemporary dance performance.

If youFriday, missed supporting our choir this year, be sure to get your tickets On May 3rd, 2024, LFA's Choral Choir early for next year, as it is a truly one-of-a-kind LFA event. performed their year-end show "Sing the World Better" at UBC's Chan Shun Concert Hall. 69

Shrek the Musical Theatre Arts at LFA is a critical part of our fine and performing arts program. This year our talented student thespians once again collaborated with Vancouver College to put on an extravagant and delightful production of Shrek the Musical. Originally opening in December 2008 at the Broadway Theatre in New York, Shrek the Musical brings together a vibrant and dynamic score that spans from rock to traditional musical theatre. This wide musical range reflects the heart of the story itself—bold, diverse, and full of unexpected beauty. Performances were held at the Irene Manrell Theatre for Performing Arts at Vancouver College from April 7-11. The April 9 performance also featured a pre-show alumni social between alumni from both LFA and Vancouver College. Held in Vancouver College’s Alumni Room the social featured pizza, light snacks, refreshments, and much socializing before attendees trickled

down to the theatre to enjoy the show. The actors and crew were in top form throughout the week’s performances, and audiences were left thoroughly entertained. Congratulations are owed to Directors Simone Bazille and Nicole Macdonald, along with Musical Directors Marizza Mislang and Ben Horodyski for their tireless efforts in putting the production together. Special thanks are also owed to all donors who helped support this incredible creative opportunity for our students through their generous gifts. This year’s production of Shrek the Musical was made possible in part by LFA’s Annual Fund, which for the past decade has been supporting performing arts at LFA. Gifts to the fund are a direct investment in the creativity and self-expression of our students. Such opportunities are vital in the development of selfassured and empowered young women.

Great Gatsby Party 2026

The annual Great Gatsby Party was a glamorous affair this year. Grade 12 students in Ms. Mills’ English class came dressed to the nines for a fabulous afternoon that saw our school auditorium transported back to the “Roaring Twenties”. Students walked the red carpet one by one as they were announced into the party. Tables were dressed with candles, flowers, and a wide variety of delicious snacks and desserts, while Mr. Sy made the rounds with a fine bottle of apple juice for the thirsty guests. Students then took the stage in groups to perform elaborate dance numbers inspired by the era; there were Charlston kicks, heel twists, shimmies, and other jazzy movements. The festivities concluded with awards for best-dressed and most periodaccurate guests. It was a party for the ages!

ATHLETICS

VOLLEYBALL The Bantam team was full of energy, enthusiasm, and were super fun to coach this year. The players were taught different systems of play and developed over the year. Highlights included a second league championship in a row and qualifying for the provincial championships. Unfortunately, the team didn’t advance to the top half of the draw. However, that meant the girls were able to embrace their last few matches of volleyball for the year, and play with great spirit and passion.

The Junior Volleyball team was exceptional this year, with only three—very close—losses all season, conquering STM at the Handsworth Tournament, and winning bronze at BC Catholics. Whether they were on the court, or cheering from the side, every person played a key role. Success was certainly a highlight, but most importantly, there was a lot of fun; with changing room karaoke, and Celine Dion power ballads getting honorable mentions. As athletes, the team was certainly talented, but they should also be proud of their kindness, and willingness to work hard. This year marked a major milestone as the Senior Volleyball team stepped up to compete in AAAA for the first time. With a young roster and only two seniors, the girls rose to the challenge and showed tremendous growth throughout the season. They consistently finished in the top tier at every tournament, and after an incredible performance at the Sea to Sky zones, they earned their first-ever berth at the AAAA BC Provincial Championships in Kelowna! The coaches would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the graduating players and manager, Emily Warman ‘26, Sam Hernandez ‘26, and Kaitlyn Phillips ‘26 whose leadership, dedication, and spirit set the tone for the entire team. FIELD HOCKEY Our Grade 8 Bantam Field Hockey team faced the challenge of competing in a league with Senior B teams. They clinched a crucial victory that propelled them into the playoffs, securing the number four spot in the league. The team’s improvement and dedication throughout the season were truly remarkable, and they showed great sportsmanship and growth. The Junior Field Hockey team had an unforgettable season filled with growth, resilience, laughter, and school spirit. As one of the host teams for the LFA Jamboree, the girls quickly became a cohesive unit, building

strong chemistry that led to exciting victories and memorable moments throughout the season. One of the season highlights was the Golden Pumpkin Tournament, where 14 players and Ms. Pavone battled through torrential downpours, flooded tents, soaking wet gear, and unpredictable weather together—at one point with all 15 of them crammed into the school Yukon trying to stay dry. Despite the chaos, the team persevered and proudly finished second in their division. Most importantly, the girls played with tremendous heart, determination, and sportsmanship all season long. Their playoff run ended in an intense extended shootout that showcased their grit, teamwork, and perseverance until the very end. It was an absolutely brilliant year for Senior Field Hockey. The best part of this group is the incredible team spirit, even with athletes in Grades 9, 10, 11 and 12. You can definitely say that the culture of this lovely group was fostered through the kind and committed leadership of all of the graduating athletes. This culture was ever present both on and off the field. That said, it’s sport, and on the field is where they may have been their best: all they did was get to the podium. Gold at the Havoc Tournament in September. Bronze at the incredibly competitive Bridgman tournament over Thanksgiving and a razor-close silver at provincials, despite playing up for their first year in AAA, having been bumped up from AA to AAA. SWIMMING The LFA Swim team had an amazing 2025 season with over 30 new personal best times and countless memories made in the pool. The 36 Angels demonstrated exceptional dedication, resilience, and commitment throughout the ISA meet, Sea to Sky zone qualifiers, and provincial championship. Every practice and meet was filled with laughter and excitement, showing the team’s deep love for the sport. The LFA team came third in BC’s AA category overall. The accomplishments of this season reflect the hard work of the Angels, the student volunteer coaches, and the support of Mme. St-Arnaud.

Y E A R

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CROSS COUNTRY The LFA Cross Country team had an exciting and successful season this year. The team was a tight-knit group that worked incredibly hard. The Junior team placed fifth in Zones, earning them a spot in the BC Provincial Championships in Nanaimo. Their success showcased the hard work and dedication that the runners put into every practice and meet. Every athlete played an important role in creating a supportive and enthusiastic environment, helping one another improve and celebrating each other’s accomplishments. Throughout the season, the team really showed what it means to deal with adversity and competed with great attitude.

BASKETBALL The Bantam Basketball team had a great season, finishing second in their league. They lost a hard-fought final game to a very talented St. Patrick's High School. The girls played tough defense all year and showed tremendous growth as the season progressed. Beyond the wins and losses the team experienced this year, the most important takeaway was the strong connections they built and the meaningful relationships they developed. Coach Paxton and Coach Sarah are excited to see the next generation step up, representing our basketball program with pride, and creating lasting memories over the next four years.

The Senior Basketball team represented what it truly means to be together. Throughout the entire season, there were no cliques, no divisions between grades, and no one left out. The team created a culture that was welcoming, supportive, and positive every single day. What made this group especially memorable was its resilience. Whether facing tough games, difficult practices, or adversity during the season, the players consistently stayed connected and lifted each other up. That commitment to one another became the foundation of the team’s success. Special recognition also goes out to the seniors—Bea Williscroft ‘26, Pippa Bryan ‘26, Angel Dee ‘26, and Ana Montessori ‘26. Their leadership, attitude, and care for younger teammates helped set the standard for what this program should look like moving forward. ICE HOCKEY The Ice Hockey team had a mixture of rookies and well-seasoned veterans hitting the ice again this year. With an intersquad match having Team Bryde edge Team Fitch to start the season, the Angels were able to fit in six games this season, with a well-balanced record of two wins, two ties, and two losses. Hats off to the dedicated players who showed up to the Richmond Olympic Oval every week at 6:30am, starting their day with a skate before school—Superman dives and asteroid bragging rights were almost always on the line each morning. The experienced hockey players were a huge asset on the ice, showing the new players the skills that Mr. Fitch and Mrs. Bryde were too old and fragile to demonstrate, but also a huge help getting the new players laced up in the changing room! Three graduating seniors deserve a round of applause for their dedication to the team over the last four years: Mattea Ngui ‘26, Merete Mauer ‘26, and Amy Stelling ‘26. Congratulations on a fantastic season.

This year the Junior Basketball team had an exciting season. The start of the season was a bit rocky, but they worked hard and learned how to play together as a team. The team was made up of so many incredibly athletic and passionate players which made every game an exciting matchup. They grew together as individuals and became incredibly close both on and off the court. All players improved in their own way, whether it was shooting, rebounding, or becoming a leader on the court. 77

ATHLETICS

SOCCER All the players of the 2026 Junior Soccer team deserve our deepest admiration in so many ways—especially for their extraordinary selflessness and dedication. In late March and early April, after long days of classes, they walked 25 minutes to attend practices at Douglas Park, sometimes in pouring rain, yet always with enthusiasm and never a single complaint. Out of those difficult moments emerged a team that became united, resilient, and determined. On April 9 and 10, it was a group driven by a true will to win that stepped onto the field at the Argyle Tournament. They went to North Vancouver, faced the challenge head-on, and overcame nearly all of their opponents to earn an outstanding second-place finish among more than 20 teams. Throughout this remarkable journey, many talents blossomed. Players such as Marina Mandic ‘28 and Emma Banting ‘28, who were putting on soccer cleats for the very first time, played an active role in the team’s success with courage, heart, and generosity. Beyond the goals, trophies, and standings, these young women learned how to support one another, laugh together, rise after adversity, and move forward as a true family. The friendships, trust, and sisterhood they have built will endure long after the final whistle. The Senior Soccer team was led by captains Ruby Ambardar ‘26 and Amy Stelling ‘26, with Ruby dictating the play in the middle of the field and Amy making sure the defensive wall stood strong. In a very competitive league, the team finished third in league play. Despite defeating WPGA 5-1 to start the season, the Angels narrowly lost in shootout in the playoff game against WPGA to be knocked out of zone play. Even though the team had eight graduating athletes, it was one of the youngest senior teams LFA has had in years, boasting well for the soccer program moving forward. A special thanks to our senior players, Ruby Ambardar ‘26, Maya Arrata ‘26, Kailey Clark ‘26, Sadie Hoag ‘26, Ana Montessori ‘26, Isla O’Flaherty Wills ‘26, Amy Stelling ‘26, and Bea Williscroft ‘26.

TRACK AND FIELD The track and field team consisted of a diverse group of over 40 athletes that competed in our league meets. Of all our competitors over 20 qualified for the Sea to Sky Championships. We had a very strong group of athletes who qualified for and competed at the BC Provincial Championships including Natalie Gan ’29 in 1500m Run and 3000m Run; Isla O’Flaherty Wills '26 in Pole Vault; Victoria Chao ’29 in Discus Throw and Shot Put; Blake Towers ’29 in 200m Dash; Hazel Yip ’29 in Long Jump; Ella Estoque '27 in Shot Put; and Annabel Ma-Hack '26 in Javelin. BADMINTON This badminton season was filled with dedication, perseverance, and growth. Our athletes showed incredible commitment at every practice and competition, always representing the team with determination and sportsmanship. While the season did not end with a championship title, our young team gained valuable experience, improved their skills, and supported one another through every challenge. TENNIS From the very beginning, the LFA Tennis team showed determination, resilience, and heart. Match after match, our players supported one another, encouraged each other through tough moments, and never stopped fighting—especially during Zones. Through hard work, commitment, and strong teamwork, the Angels earned key victories and represented LFA with pride, sportsmanship, and unity. This season reminded the team that success is not only measured by trophies, but by the friendships built, the effort given, and the way a team comes together.

ULTIMATE The LFA/VC Ultimate team had a fabulous season where they demonstrated perseverance, dedication and determination throughout but most importantly had fun. From practicing in the sun, to battling through rainy weather, the athletes continuously showed their commitment to the sport and the team through their positive attitudes and dedication to improving their skills.

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BC Winter Games Medal Haul LFA's Alice Guo '30, hauls in five medals at the 2026 BC Winter Games.

LFA's Alice Guo '30 competed at the Trail-Rossland 2026 BC Winter Games this spring, coming away with four silvers and one bronze. Held every two years, the BC Winter Games provides a premier multi-sport competition environment that supports athlete development and prepares participants for the next stages of their competitive journey. For many athletes, the games are a defining milestone on the pathway to higher levels of competition. Alice represented her local Club, the Richmond Rockets Speed Skating Club, putting on a truly remarkable show as she won four silver medals for the 400m, 800m, 1000m, and 1500m events, as well as a bronze medal for the 2000m Relay. Chatting with Alice about her performance at the games, her perspective was indicative of her incredible maturity and determination: “I have no regrets. It was a great experience for me, and I know I can do better next time. I’m looking ahead now, because I know I’m going to have more competitions in the future.” Alice’s love for skating began in China when she was eight years old, “I remember seeing a poster for skating classes, and thinking ‘that looks so fun’, so I signed up for classes, and my coaches told me I have talent and I should compete.” Alice and her family immigrated to Canada a few years later where she found the Richmond Rockets skating club and continued to build her skill and passion as a skater. Since that time, Alice has garnered 11 medals across regional and national competitions. In 2024, she came second overall in a Canada Western Youth competition. The highlight of Alice’s young skating career thus far was the BC Cup 2024, where Alice was the only 12-year-old youth skater that levelled up to compete against 14- and 15-year-olds, and came second overall. Perhaps the secret to Alice’s success is her focused mindset—one that isn’t dictated by results and medals, but rather continuous selfimprovement. Reflecting on her growth as a skater, Alice was most proud of how far along her personal best (PB) time has improved: “My PB has had a very large improvement. Five years ago, I was doing around 12 seconds per lap, and 80

now I can do that in nine and sometimes even eight seconds. That keeps me motivated, as do the friendships with all the people I’ve met through the Richmond Rockets.” As for the most important lesson Alice has learned over the course of her skating career, it’s the determination needed to push you towards your goals. “I learned to never give up on something. I used to think that the effort I put into skating will never be able to beat the talent people have naturally. But you can’t just have natural talent. You have to work for results,” Alice reflected with great wisdom. With so much of her skating career still ahead of her, we are excited to follow Alice’s journey. LFA is very proud of Alice's dedication to her sport and the incredible poise and skill she demonstrated over the course of the BC Winter Games.

Top of page: Alice in action at the 2026 BC Winter Games. Above: Alice (left) on the podium with her fellow medalists at the 2026 BC Winter Games. Below: Alice competing at a 2025 national competition.

Provincial Silver (Again)

Memories of 2023, where fortunes changed in last moments of the gold medal game.

Our LFA Field Hockey Angels went right to the brink of a provincial championship again this year, giving them three podium finishes in the past three years. Unfortunately, gold remains elusive! And, as our 2023 team will remember, it was a goal in the final minutes that sealed the deal for our opponent.

many of our field hockey alumnae, as will the many team-building games, like mafia. On the field, LFA really hit its stride at provincials. Despite losing one of our captains (Claire Cheng '26) to injury, LFA marched to the gold medal game, convincingly beating some exceptionally good teams.

It was a truly wonderful season. The team was, in many ways, more than the sum of its parts. Organized and unselfish, the ball moved through the group, never relying on one player to do too much. They were dogged in their defending and really believed in themselves. After winning a local tournament, LFA finished third at the prestigious Bridgman Tournament in Victoria, missing out on the gold medal game by the narrowest of margins.

The final itself proved a barn burner. Against an AAA powerhouse, Handsworth, the team simply refused to be overwhelmed. Down 2-0 and 3-1, the Angels fought back to 3-3, only to fall behind again 4-3. Throwing everything at the game, they clawed their way back to 4-4. With only 90 seconds left, Handsworth took advantage of some confusion on an umpiring decision to net the winner. It could have been devestating, but given the stature of our opponent and the quality of the effort LFA delivered, the girls were able to hold their heads high, truly winning their silver medal.

LFA was moved up from AA to AAA for their provincial championships this year. Despite playing some top hockey, simply making the championships in the Sea to Sky zone is a feat in and of itself. A convincing win over old rival Collingwood took bronze at zones and assured us our spot "at the dance". Staying as a team at Mattea's house during provincials will be a familiary memory for so

Thanks to all of our eight seniors, who demonstrated the type of sportsmanship and integrity that defines our school and our field hockey program. A special mention to our univeristy-bound varsity players graduating this year: Amy Stelling '26 (UBC), Bea Williscroft '26 (University of Guelph), and Claire Cheng '26 (UBC).

WALKATHON 2025

Our students surpassed their ambitious Walkathon goal of $75,000, making Walkathon 2025, an incredible success. A special thanks to the Executive Student Council for their incredible effort and daily motivation. From their costumes to their daily reminders, their commitment to the cause was contagious, and they truly inspired everyone as we approached the finish line. Thank you also to our staff, our parent volunteers, our students, and our generous donors. It is always amazing to see our entire community come together!

STUDENTS RAISED $76,133!

Welcome Back BBQ 2025 The biggest event in LFA history! On Friday, September 5, 2025, we celebrated the start of a new school year as we always do, with our Welcome Back BBQ. This year’s edition was a little different, as it also marked the start of a new chapter for LFA with the launch of our Flourish Campaign. In front of a crowd of nearly 2,000 students, staff, parents, alumnae, grandparents and past parents, we shared our vision for LFA’s future. The support and energy from the eager crowd was infectious and nothing short of inspiring. We are so grateful to everyone who came out to show their support, making this year’s Welcome Back the biggest event in our school’s history. As guests enjoyed a delicious spread of hotdogs, burgers, and salads, their attention was drawn 84

to the stage where some big announcements were made. Among them was the fact that upon launch, we had raised $9 million towards our $27 million campaign goal (our total raised now stands closer to $13 million); that the Parents’ Auxiliary had committed a $1 million gift to the Flourish Campaign; and that our Library would be named the “Cullen Family Library” in recognition of the visionary support of Mark and Barbara Cullen. The rest of the evening was a joyous mixture of excitement for the future of our school, and deep gratitude for the community that makes it up. A special thanks is owed to the Parents’ Auxiliary and their volunteers for organizing such a monumental event, to Jak’s for providing the drinks for the evening, as well as Dana Hospitality

for all their effort preparing the delicious food. The success of our Welcome Back event marked the beginning of a beautiful school year that saw our community show up in so many ways. The outpouring of support and conviction in our Flourish Campaign has been a blessing to our community, its impact on current and future generations of Angels will be extraordinary. We can’t wait to see you for this year’s Welcome Back BBQ taking place on Friday, September 11, 2026. It will be a perfect summer evening to come together as a school community and celebrate the start of a new school year. RSVP today at www.lfabc.org/BBQ

Mother Daughter Brunch AUTHOR: CAROLYN SUSSEY '94

This year’s LFA Mother Daughter Brunch moved to a new venue, the Sheraton Wall Centre, offering a larger and more elegant setting for this beloved tradition. Guests entered the grand ballroom to find a beautiful Christmas-themed space. The theme of the event was the Nutcracker High Tea, which set a festive and magical tone. For the first time, invitations were extended beyond mothers and daughters to include other important women in the lives of LFA students; grandmothers, aunts, sisters and alumnae. It was truly special to see so many generations of women from the LFA community gathered together. This popular event sold out again in just 20 minutes. I always look forward to the Mother Daughter Brunch as an opportunity to spend some time with my daughter, Allison. This year did not disappoint. As in previous years, favourite traditions returned. The photo booth was a lively spot where mothers, daughters, and families captured fun moments with playful props. My family now has a collection of keepsake photos from over the years since my eldest, Katelyn, was at LFA. The popular candy bar delighted guests with a wide selection of sweet treats, especially enjoyed by the students. 86

There was entertainment which enhanced the festive spirit. The awardwinning LFA Chamber Choir, led by Ms. Mislang, delivered a beautiful medley of Christmas songs, filling the ballroom with holiday cheer. Guests were also treated to a performance by Goh Ballet, where young ballerinas in soft pastel costumes performed an elegant piece that complemented the Nutcracker theme. Another highlight of the event was the addition of the Holiday Pop-Up Market featuring several women-led businesses. The market showcased a range of products from beauty items to handcrafted jewelry. It was a celebration of women’s entrepreneurship and also provided an opportunity to give back, with 10% of proceeds supporting the Flourish Campaign. Overall, the event raised over $12,000 for the LFA Parents’ Auxiliary, funding essential initiatives like student scholarships and the LFA Flourish Campaign. It was wonderful to be a part of a joyful and memorable celebration that brought the LFA community together in the true spirit of the school and the Christmas season.

Father Daughter Dinner Dance The most fun night of the year!

Our annual Father Daughter Dinner Dance was once again a terrific success. Thanks to the LFA Parents’ Auxiliary it was a sold out event and fathers and daughters alike had an unforgettable time. The auditorium was beautifully dressed, and Chef Jay and the Dana Hospitality team had a delicious assortment of snacks and refreshments and an ever-popular taco bar. With food in their stomachs and all the photo opportunities taken care of, dads and daughters then hit the dance floor. DJ Jordan Zwicker was back providing the music for the evening, and the auditorium was full of infectious joy and excitement as the dance party carried well into the night. As always, it was a very special evening for LFA fathers and daughters to share together.

ENDOWMENT FUNDS We want to celebrate the named endowment funds, which will serve and enrich Catholic girls’ education in Vancouver in perpetuity.

Burns MacPhail Family Endowment Fund

Jack and Bettye Mills Family Endowment Fund

Chan Family Endowment Fund

Janina (Runcewiz) Freyman '55 Endowment Fund

Dana Hospitality Endowment Fund

Jeanne (Gagnon) Comesotti ‘55 Endowment Fund

Eva and John Wertschek Endowment Fund

Josefina and Melecio Estoque Memorial Endowment Fund

ATHLETICS

AREA OF GREATEST NEED AREA OF GREATEST NEED FINANCIAL AID

Fitch & Dudek Family Endowment Fund AREA OF GREATEST NEED

Hensel Family Endowment Fund AREA OF GREATEST NEED

Hip-Zelaya Family Endowment Fund AREA OF GREATEST NEED

CAMPUS MINISTRY FINANCIAL AID

AREA OF GREATEST NEED

Le Billon Family Endowment Fund AREA OF GREATEST NEED

Lloyd and Mary Rogers Memorial Endowment Fund FINANCIAL AID

Lodewyk Wang Family Endowment Fund

Ryan Chan & Samantha Wong '02 Endowment Fund

Ma Lee Family Endowment Fund

Sandra (Gougeon) Gallacher '63 Endowment Fund

Man Family Athletic Endowment Fund

Sr Josephine Carney SSA ‘38 Endowment Fund

Marcelle DeFreitas Endowment Fund

Sully Mok Lui Family Endowment Fund

McKee Family Endowment Fund

Westbury Family Endowment Fund

Mowat Family Endowment Fund

Widarto Family Endowment Fund

AREA OF GREATEST NEED AREA OF GREATEST NEED ATHLETICS

FINANCIAL AID

AREA OF GREATEST NEED AREA OF GREATEST NEED

FINANCIAL AID

AREA OF GREATEST NEED FINANCIAL AID

AREA OF GREATEST NEED AREA OF GREATEST NEED AREA OF GREATEST NEED

Rosemarie Wertschek Endowment Fund CAMPUS MINISTRY

AD LUCEM SOCIETY

Leave a Lasting Legacy

How can I make an extraordinary gift? We’ll work with you, your family and advisers on a confidential basis to ensure your philanthropic goals are met and your legacy is realized. A gift in your estate plan will enrich the next 100 years of LFA. To exploreplease plannedcontact giving opportunities, please contact To explore planned giving opportunities, Ben Fitch atat 604.738.9016 ext. 104ext.104 or emailor fitchb@lfabc.org. Ben Fitch, LFA's Director of Advancement, 604.738.9016 email fitchb@lfabc.org www.lfabc.org/Legacy www.lfabc.org/Legacy 92

FOUNDERS' CIRCLE RECEPTION This year marked our 18th Founders’ Circle Reception. It was a great opportunity to not only recognize community members who have made LFA a philanthropic priority, but to celebrate the spirit of giving that has bolstered our school since its inception. With our Flourish Campaign looking to secure the future of our school for the next generation of Angels, this year’s Founders’ Circle members were united by a strong belief in our vision for LFA’s next evolution. The Founders' Circle includes alumnae, parents, past parents, grandparents, friends, faculty, staff, directors, and trustees. This year’s reception took place at the beautiful residence of Mike and Monique McKee ’91. Their lovely home provided the perfect setting for an evening of gratitude and community. On the following pages you can see images of the event and some of the amazing people we had the privilege of celebrating.

Founders' Circle 2026

Founders' Circle Reception 2026 A joyous evening of community and gratitude

Founders' Circle 2026

WITH SINCERE

THANKS

CONNIE SABO'S EXTRAORDINARY IMPACT ON OUR SCHOOL COMMUNITY AUTHOR: BEN FITCH gifts... and, also, process and receipt those gifts? No problem. Pick up brand new software and design a brochure or newsletter? Yep. Produce a gorgeous hand-made graduation composite to celebrate the graduating class? In her sleep. Do all these things while taking time to get to know people personally and authentically? Of course. Oh, and can it be done part-time so that she can continue to be an amazing artist with her own studio and central to planning events and activities in Vancouver's art scene? Yes, most definitely.

After more than two decades of service to LFA, Connie Sabo retired at Christmas. Her extraordinary impact on the marketing, communications, events, alumnae relations and fundraising was only outshone by the profoundly sincere relationships she made with everyone along the way. Connie started the advancement program at LFA, though initially she may not have known that was what she was doing. Her friend Krista Bedard was working in the Library at LFA and the school was navigating its first fundraising campaign to build the 2007 wing of the school. Largely run by the board and volunteers, the school identified the need to bring someone in to help. That's where Connie stepped in.

The ambiguity of the role in those early days was, in many ways, the perfect fit for Connie and her superpower: which is that she is good at, literally, everything. Pull together an astonishingly well-run event? Connie is your person. Need to make a heart-felt thank you call? Check. Need to learn a complex CRM database to track 96

When I arrived from a big univeristy advancement department in 2008, I had no idea how extraordinary Connie was. It did, however, only take a few months to realize who I had the pleasure of working with. What stood out was how much everyone in the community loved her. Sr. Jo (Sr. Josephine Carney) made a beeline to Connie at every event. Sr. Frieda Raab pulled me aside to tell me how much she thought of Connie. Marcelle DeFreitas, our school Principal, insisted on Connie's input for the widest array of initiatives. Mauvorneen Suttie '67, our Bursar, was clearly as much friend as colleague to Connie. The student interactions as she walked the halls were extraordinary. She and the Alumnae Executive worked hand-in-hand. She knew every person on the Parents' Auxiliary. In hindsight, we are fortunate that Connie stuck with her role at LFA. When her daughter Kathryn graduated from LFA in 2008, there was always the pull to being a professional artist. Connie maintained a studio, was a key volunteer in the Eastside Culture Crawl, and often had opportunities for large art installations and artist residencies that must have given pause to persuing her art full time. In the end, we were able to find the balance and very lucky to have her artistic talents grace our school activities. The hallmark of Connie's time at LFA was her ability to strike the balance of professionalism and friendship. She was the most reliable person to get something done... and managed, no matter what, to do it with a gentle kindness that won over everyone. She is responsible for so much. She helped raise millions of dollars for Catholic girls education at LFA. She was instrumental in establishing loved events, like Home for the Holidays, The Grape Escape, Grandparent Day and the Founders' Circle

Reception. She built our alumnae database and was the engine behind the alumnae program. She led the evolution of our alumnae newsletter into the school magazine, La Petite Fleur, as it is today. Most importantly, she brought people together and fostered friendships that will surely last a lifetime. Certainly, working with her in our little advancement office, to me she is forever the embodiment of LFA's culture: empathetic, caring, diligent, giving, high-achieving... and above all, loving and kind. We miss her dearly. Top Left: Connie is always smiling! 2012 Alumnae Spring Bags event. Inset Left: Connie and Francesca Romanucci, SSA at our second Home for the Holidays in 2009. Top Right: Connie, Karen Teufel '02, Mackenzie Biggar '97 and Lara Victoria at 2016 Grape Escape. Second Right: Host, Danielle Gannon '05, Samantha Chang '05, Terena Maguire '95 and Connie at the 2017 Alumnae Scotch Tasting evening. Third Right: Bettina Sy '97 and Connie at the Parents' Auxiliary hosted 2015 Chinese New Year Dinner. Bottom Right: Alumnae Pub Night in Montreal with Alex Breukels '13 in charge of the pub selfie.

BY THE NUMBERS

A generous community sets a pathway for a uniquely accessible all-girls education into the future.

$7.6M

8.0%

$1.6M

Endowed

Disbursable $6.0M

Annualized return since inception of Endowment (2012)

Total assets of the LFA Foundation

$415K

Endowment Fund Allocations Scholarship Fine & Performing Arts 2% 1% Spirituality 7%

Distributed to LFA in fiscal year 2025

Athletics 8%

Financial Aid 46%

Named Endowments Unrestricted 36%

Top 10 Class Endowments

Class Endowments

2023 2026 1987

$95K

Total Class Endowment Funds

2022

Graduating Class

2006 2025 2020 2015 1962 1988 0

5000

10000

15000

20000

Total Balance ($)

FOUNDERS’ CIRCLE

Leadership gifts have a profound impact on the education and experience of every girl at Little Flower Academy. Leadership gifts are the foundation for balancing excellence and accessibility, which is core to our mission and vision. We gratefully acknowledge our leadership donors this past year. * : 5+ years as members of the Founders’ Circle

** : 10+ years as members of the Founders’ Circle *** : 15+ years as members of the Founders’ Circle

Anonymous x 8 Jeffrey and Monika Agala '98 Amit Ahuja and Serena Pires Philippe Arrata and Bernadette Alejandrino * Audrey Alscher '85 ** Robert Ambardar and Jane Arthurs Claire Andruff Artuso Family | Alex Artuso '22 * Adrian Au and Candy Lam Cherie Au '01 Karen Au Yeung '02 * Joanna and Wensley Ban * Berretta Family Ryan and Susan Bryde '92 ** Peter Bull and Kathy Kelly '72 Ken Burns and Lori Mathison Nanshu Cai and Hui Huang Margarita Carlos '02 Carraresi Foundation in Memory of Augusto Carraresi *** Suzanne Cassinos *** The Chan Family The Chan and Lee Family Andrew Chan and Helen Cheung * Alexander and Rebecca Chan Catherine Chan '15 Dean Chan Leonard Chan and Keryl Leung * Patrick and Yong Yong Chan * Peter Chan and Maggie Xu Roger and Ming-Ming Chan * Ryan Chan and Samantha Wong '02 Henry Chen and Susan Wu Andy and Lily Cheng * John Cheng and Joyce Tsang-Cheng * Ryan and Tanya Cheung '02 * Jason and Michele Chiu '96 Cecilia Chow Howard Chow and Cecilia Ting * Ian Choy and Irene Tai Brenda Chua '82 * Brigitte Chua '86 and Martin Goodger * Glenn and Teena Chua Paul and Noeleen Chin Jim and Kathy Clarke ** Corilee Cotter '70 *** The Cullen Family Sebastian and Laurianne D'Amici Dana Hospitality *** Felicia de la Paz '05 Sean and Shannon De Vries

LFA SUPPORTERS: FOUNDERS’ CIRCLE Stanley and Rani Dee * Rachel Djauhari '17 Paul Dmytriw and Karen Rendek Kristian Domingo Foundation * Helena Dong and William Wang Aaron Dunn and Gabriela Oteiza '97 * Miller Dussan and Jocelyn Yanez Oguz and Funda Erel * Jay Estoque and Corinna Kwong-Estoque '91 Jessica Fabbro '02 Andy Fan and Monica Chen * Ben Fitch and Angela Dudek *** Baling Fang and Sirui Li Janina Freyman '55 ** Grant and Jennifer Foster David and Sabine Frost * Gallacher Family in Memory of Sandra (Gougeon) Gallacher '63 Steve Gallagher and Laura De Munain Gallagher Heng and Carolyn Gan David Graham and Angela Battiston Patrick Guan and Grace Zhu * Remo and Sarah Guizzo Huai Bao Guo and Lucy Sun Chris and Lisa Hallam Brent and Angela Harvey Alexis Hawker and Darryck Maurer Darren and Suzie Hawrish '90 Sean and Erin Heather '89 Irene Hensel '88 and Garnet Klatt * Robert Hensel and May Hoh Chris and Jen Hermesmann Ricardo and Candace Hernandez Joe Hidayat and Juanita Trisnadi Jimmy Ho and Doris Hung Mark and Jennifer Hoag Melissa Holland and Bruce Clark * Hyounwoo Hong and Younghee Hwang Richard and Kate Hoos * Steven and Frances Huang '92 * Wilford Huang and Melanie Ju Jeffrey Hunter and Stephanie Weterings Leanne Hurley '98 Bob and Lesley Jackson '90 * Rongjian Jiang and Weimin Sun Peter Joo and Yoona Chung Alwin Joseph and Alice Alwin Paul and Amy Kam Ryan and Michelle Kenny Damian and Charlene Kettlewell John and Carmel Kettlewell Martin Kim and Angela Lee Damien and Vickie King '94 * Darren and Esmeralda Klinck Edwin Kong and Goretti Chan Robert and Kari Kozikowski Steve and Sophia Kozikowski Eric Kwong and Louisa Leung Patrick Kwong and Yulanda Tang Shirley Kwok and Avan Chen David Lai and Susanna Lam Kenneth Lai and Bronche Cheng * Maya Lakhanpal '27 * Miranda Lam Mick and Katie Larson Irene and Terence Lau

Vincent Lau and Agnes Yu * Daniel Lee and Jaclyn Chan '05 Simon Lee and Man Liu Theresia Lee '99 Tony Lee and Zoe Stronge Alick Lei and Michelle Zhang * Leong-Chung Family * Vincent Leung and Mackie Mack Jason Li and Maggie Yang Bill and Melissa Lin Teal and Jing Linde Eric Ling and Lorraine Lowe '93 * Jon and Diane Little '88 *** Bill and Jennifer Liutkus Joseph Lo and Jane Huynh Wendy Lo '00 Dave Lodewyk and Ingrid Wang Lodewyk '90 * Andrew Loo and Jobina Tsang '93 * Siegfried and Lisa Luft * Albert Lum and Ayako Tan-Lum * Elaine Ma Jonathan Ma and Diana Lee '02 Kevin and Geraldine Ma Lin Ma and Cindy Tang Vincent and Chevy Mabasa Paul and Carla MacAulay Nicholas and Claudine Maile * The Man Family *** Anastase and Maria Maragos '82 Jason and Laura Marriott '92 The Marshall-Wong Family Catherine McDonnell Perry McDougall and Krista Cook Ali and John McGillivray * Gordon and Katelyn McGuinty '04 Mike and Monique McKee '91 Michael and Leanne Moretto '90** Andrew and Miriam Mowat '88 ** Kee and Yoonjoo Nam Amir and Gina Nasrabadi Angely Ng and Icarus Chau Richard Ng and Patsy Chan William Ng and Jessica Yu Alberto and Alma Nisperos and Family * Dan Nosyk and Caroline Cannon '04 * Michael Omae and Catherine Lee Ovsenek Family | Jacqueline Ovsenek '17 and Julia Ovsenek '17 ** Nicholas Palmer and Beata Kacy Carlie Paxton '97 Geoff Pedlow and Samantha Chang '05 Stephane Pissavin and Agnes Kliber Aaron Rallo and Andrea Majorki Jonathan and Juliana Roden Jim and Penny Rogers * Marie Rogers Kirk and Michelle Romero Carmela Rossi Katherine Rushka '68 Connie and Greg Sabo Paul and Preena Sahota '95 Derek Schick and Stephanie Von Dehn '91 Daniel and Ana Sebal Steven and Pilar Seewald * Rob and Biman Senghera The Shumka Family

Rebecca Sigvardt Monty and Renee Sikka '99 The Sisters of St. Ann Norman and Wai-ling So * Richard and Sally So Michael and Marina Stein * Dave and Ann Stewardson Todd Stewardson and Jennifer Halfhide John and Mary Street The Sully and Mok Family Mauvorneen Suttie '67 *** Alex and Diana Sy Bettina Sy '97 ** Danny Tang and Josephine Lui Steve and Ruth Tatone '92 * Theresa Teufel and Karen Teufel '02 ** Christian Thoma and Saby Ramirez * Ivor Ting and Ivy Chow Eric and Vivian Tong Todd and Jasmine Towers Thuy Thi Tran Geoffrey and Karen Trotter Sandra Truijllo and Javier Herrera Joseph and Stella Tsang The Tyas Marchinko Family Catherine Uy * Vincent and Grace Uy Sergius Wai and Bertha Wong Sophia Wang '27 Teresa and Joseph Wang Izabela Wasiela '99 | Wasiela Family Bursary Fund ** The Wertschek Family Eric Widarto and Lyviana Mananta Kathi Wilson David and Catherine Williscroft '89 * William and Jacy Wingson *** Raymond and Catherine Woo The Wong Family in Memory of Vincent T. Wong and in Memory of Samantha M. Wong '96 ** Ada Wong '94 and Zul Kanji Alex Wong and Cindy Chow * Chung Wong and Adrienne Cheng * Queenie Wong '00 Vincent Wong and Joyce Lee ** Liang Ping Wu and Jie Liu Vivienne Wu and Nelson Wang ** Rui Xia and Lei Liu Da Qun Xu and Jun Yang Darren and Lisa Yanko Vic Yao and Cathy Chen Seongjin Yim and Junghee Ahn Eric and Monika Young Adrian Yu and Pamela Foo Francis and Sara Yu Vicki Yuan and Taylor Zheng Andy Yuen and Sandy Lai * Norman Yum and Irene Tsang John and Agnes Yun * Henry Yung and Eileen Lai Adrian Yu and Pamela Foo Demetri Zambus and Helen Taraviras Zambus Joselin Zelaya Mingzhi Zhang and Junping Qian Kunpeng Zhu and Yan Liu

MISTAKE? Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this list (donations made between July 1, 2025 - June 30, 2026). If, however, any errors or omissions have occurred, please accept our apologies, and advise the Advancement Office at 604.738.9016 ext.107 so that corrections can be made.

LFA SUPPORTERS: FRIENDS & ALUMNAE FRIENDS

Gifts of every size make a difference. It is our collective effort that sustains and enriches LFA’s long history of educating young women in the Catholic tradition. We acknowledge and thank those who supported LFA this past year. * : 5+ years giving to the Annual Fund

** : 10+ years giving to the Annual Fund ***: 15+ years giving to the Annual Fund

Anonymous x 6 Marta Adamovich '71 Kathleen Adams '63 ** Ryan Akhurst and Jen Murtagh * Alex and Helen Au Alex Au and Nicole Wong Davies and Cheryl Aw Ross Ballard *** Robin and Marta Beynon Theo and Carol Bohlmann Eleanor Boyle '71 Robert Britch and Brooke Wozny Susan Bullock '68 * Cameron and Kerri Buschel Meghan Canil '00 * Joel and Regina Carino Catherine Carr '89 **

Sheila Catambing '95 * Karalin Ceholski '23 Tim and Sally Chan Michael Chandler Bergan Cheng '00 * Dina Chies * Wendy Chim '97 Peter and Christina Chiu Sean Choi and Anna Lee Chantal Coschizza-Clark '10 * Louella Cruz '97 ** Neil and Loraine Cumming Charmaine de Silva '00 ** Erik Eberhardt and Niki Sarshar Mariana Falbo '17 * Lynda Fellows '79 ** Yvonne and Danny Feng Bret and Cat Ferguson * Joanna Fitch '23 Chris Franks and Janice Meier Paul and Barbara Frizell Dawn Geddes Charles and Genevieve Goleco Mireya Gonzalez and Ozan Peksoy Hector Habans and Dianna Ung Al and Carol Hawker Miguel Herrera and Monika Freyman Man Yee Heung and Chung Wai Lai Peter and Sandra Homenuk Cywa Huang

Carolina Irigoyen '88 Bruce and Kathie Jagger Charles Johnson and Monica Francisco '92 Tracy Kerins '88 * Matthew and Jennifer Kettlewell Yvonne Kolstee '62 Caroline Kriekenbeek '87 Michael Lam and Emily Ba Nicole Landry John, Yvonne and Joelle Lee '13 Kayla Little '15 Guanqi Liu and Haobin Qin Peter Liu and Vivian Shi Christoph Luelfesmann and Grace Lee Melissa Ma '94 * Anning Mabasa Ben and Barb Mackenzie Marie MacNeil '49 * Joel and Virginia Magcalas Kerry Marchinko and Julie Tyas Ross Marsh and Yue Shen Mary Ann Martins '87 Eric Mesotopitis and Jocelyne Velando Carla Morales '94 Louveign Morton and Jeff Secord Shannon and Brad Newman-Bennett *

Patricia Ng '01 James Nguyen and Jennifer Hoang Philip O'Halloran and Olwyn Johnston Judy Oddy '57 ** Gethin and Marissa Owen Carla Pachal '87 * Paul and Tracy Parolin Michael Penalosa and Carla Ladeira Dean Pietrantonio | Francesca Pietrantonio '13 * Anne Powell Larry Rahn and Heidi Carton-Rahn '90 Sarah Robertson '06 * Margaret and Phillip Robles Michelle Rodrigues '18 * Jeff and Kelsey Schaeffers Tae Won and Amy Shin Peter and Annette Sullivan Jonathan and Katrina Sy '06 Lucia Tam Wil and Kim Tjoe * Jason and Sarah Toth '97 Gina Vergara Stephanie Wan Min Kee '03 * Andy Wong Raymond Wong and Vivian Chan Laurie and Nancy Yaworski John Zheng and Flora Li Tiffany Zhou

Lynda Fellows ‘79 **

Lorraine Lowe ‘93 Jobina Tsang ‘93 * Vickie King '94 Melissa Ma '94 * Carla Morales '94 Sheila Catambing '95 * Preena Sahota '95 Michele Chiu '96 ** Samantha M. Wong '96 ** (in memory) Wendy Chim '97 Louella Cruz ‘97 ** Gabriela Oteiza ‘97 * Carlie Paxton '97 Bettina Sy ‘97 ** Sarah Toth '97 Monika Agala '98 Leanne Hurley '98 Theresia Lee '99 Renee Sikka '99 Izabela Wasiela ‘99 **

Margarita Carlos '02 Tanya Cheung '02 Jessica Fabbro '02 Diana Lee '02 Karen Teufel ‘02 ** Samantha Wong '02 Stephanie Wan Min Kee '03 * Belinda Wong '03 Caroline Cannon '04 ** Katelyn McGuinty '04 Samantha Chang '05 Felicia de la Paz '05 Sarah Robertson '06 * Katrina Sy '06

ALUMNAE

Though included above, we wanted to specially acknowledge alumnae who continue to support the next generation of young women at the school. * : 5+ years giving to the Annual Fund

** : 10+ years giving to the Annual Fund ***: 15+ years giving to the Annual Fund

1940s

Marie MacNeil '49 *

1950s

Janina Freyman '55 ** Judy Oddy '57 **

1960s

Yvonne Kolstee '62 Kathleen Adams '63 ** Sandra (Gougeon) Gallacher '63 (in memory) Mauvorneen Suttie ‘67 *** Susan Bullock '68 * Katherine Rushka '68

1970s

Marta Adamovich '71 Eleanor Boyle '71 Corilee Cotter ‘70 *** Kathy Kelly '72

1980s

Brenda Chua '82 * Maria Maragos '82 Audrey Alscher '85 ** Brigitte Chua '86 * Caroline Kriekenbeek '87 * Carla Pachal '87 * Janet Zadra '87 Irene Hensel '88 * Carolina Irigoyen '88 Tracy Kerins '88 * Diane Little ‘88 *** Miriam Mowat '88 ** Catherine Carr '89 ** Erin Heather '89 Catherine Williscroft '89 *

1990s

Heidi Carton-Rahn '90 Suzie Hawrish '90 Lesley Jackson ‘90 * Ingrid Wang Lodewyk '90 * Corinna Kwong-Estoque '91 Monique McKee ‘91 * Stephanie Von Dehn '91 * Susan Bryde ‘92 ** Monica Francisco '92 Frances Huang '92 * Laura Marriott '92 Ruth Tatone ‘92 *

2000s

Meghan Canil '00 * Bergan Cheng '00 * Charmaine de Silva ‘00 ** Wendy Lo '00 Queenie Wong '00 Cherie Au '01 Patricia Ng '01 Karen Au Yeung ‘02 **

2010s

Chantal Coschizza-Clark ‘10 * Joelle Lee '13 Francesca Pietrantonio '13 * Catherine Chan '15 Kayla Little '15 Rachel Djauhari '17 Mariana Falbo ‘17 * Jacqueline Ovsenek ‘17 ** Julia Ovsenek ‘17 ** Michelle Rodrigues ‘18 *

2020s

Alex Artuso '22 * Joanna Fitch '23 Karalin Ceholski '23

100

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notes from the grotto OH BABY!

MOM: Christine (Tarves) Mayston '04 BABY: Eleanor

MOM: Samantha Chang '05 BABY: Lucas

OH BABY! Gabriel, son of Kathryn Sabo '08, at Home for the Holidays 2025!

GET YOUR LFA BIB! Do you have a newborn or a little one in your life that wants to show their school spirit? Contact us at alumnae@lfabc.org to get your very own LFA bib! And be sure to send us a picture of the model sporting the bib for our next issue of La Petite Fleur.

Zara, daughter of LFA teacher Darren Yanko, at our January Liturgy. 102

IN OUR PRAYERS

SANDRA ANN BOYLE '54 Sandra passed away on Friday, January 24, 2025, at Vancouver General Hospital. She was pre-deceased by her father, John (Jack) Campbell Boyle Sr., her mother Myrtle Eva Boyle/Bateson, her sister Jane Young and her husband Kel Young, and her two brothers, John Boyle Jr. and Murray Boyle. Sandra is survived by her sisters Sharon Carter and Brenda Boyle and her three brothers Graham Boyle, Brian Boyle and Craig Boyle; as well as her sistersin-law Mary Boyle, Kathleen Boyle and Al Boyle and by numerous nieces and nephews and grandnieces and nephews. Edited from princegeorgepost.remembering.ca

VIRGINIA MARION DUDLEY '71 Virginia Marion Dudley (née Pollock) passed away on September 14, 2025, in Vancouver, BC, at the age of 71. Virginia was born in Dublin, Ireland, to parents Ethel and Tony Pollock. She moved with her family to Vancouver, Canada, in 1957, at the age of three. Virginia attended St. Augustine’s Elementary school and Little Flower Academy for her high school years. She went on to earn her BFA and teaching degree from the University of British Columbia. Virginia was most passionate about teaching her students at Lord Selkirk, where she inspired generations of students with her wisdom, care, warmth and dedication. The joy she brought to her family, friends, and students is irreplaceable and unforgettable. Edited from kearneyfs.com

ANNA MARIA FELICELLA On Wednesday, January 21, 2026, Anna Maria Felicella passed away peacefully at the age of 85 in her home, surrounded by family. From teaching Italian cooking classes at Little Flower Academy in the 80s, to hosting La Scala at Expo 86, and volunteering with Catholic nuns in the Downtown Eastside; she was driven to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. Anna leaves behind her beloved husband, Mario Felicella; her three children: Mario Jr. Felicella, Franco Felicella, and Franca McFayden; and her eight grandchildren: Cassius, Ines, Talia, Gianna, Rocco, Massimo, Connor, and Shaelyn. She is also survived by her great-grandson, Finley.

ELINOR "JOAN" DUMARESQ '56 Elinor "Joan" Dumaresq, 87, of Vancouver, BC, passed away peacefully on October 18th, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She will be deeply missed by her devoted husband of 66 years, David; her children Shelly, Joel, Jason, Stefanie; and her beloved grandchildren, Josh, Elijah, Nicholas, and Riley along with her cherished great-grandson Timo. She is also survived by her siblings, David and Carolyn. Joan was a proud graduate of Little Flower Academy, where she formed lifelong friendships and developed the grace, humour, and kindness that would define her.

PATRICIA MARY MARSDEN-DOLE '63 Patricia Mary "Paddy" Marsden-Dole died peacefully, surrounded by her children and grandchildren, on August 26, 2025, at her son Gregory's home in Orleans. She was born in Edmonton, Alberta, to Kenneth and Gertrude Marsden (née Walsh), sister to George and Harold. Prepared by the tutelage of the Sisters of St. Ann at Little Flower Academy in Vancouver, she proceeded to the University of British Columbia, to the College of Europe in Belgium, and eventually to London, England. Patricia had a highly accomplished career as a diplomat. In 2016, Patricia was honoured as a Distinguished Alumnae of Little Flower Academy. Predeceased by her beloved husband Paul Dole, she loved her boys Gregory and Thomas, her dear daughter-in-law Eliana, and her grandchildren Maria, Rennie, Marlow, Beatrix, and Dashiell. Patricia had great appreciation and love for all those in her life, including extended family members and her many friends, who gave her much joy and support, especially in these past few years.

GRACE MARIE WELTERS '56 Surrounded by her loving family, Grace Marie Welters passed away peacefully on January 24th, 2026 at the age of 87. Predeceased by her husband of 58 years, Mitchell Welters, and their eldest son, Robert. Grace is survived by her children, David (Melissa), Jennifer (Jorgen), granddaughter Kristen, daughter-in-law Allison and grandson Graham. Born in Vancouver on September 24, 1938, to Cy and Victoria Walsh, she attended Little Flower Academy and the University of BC, where she met her lifelong partner, Mitch. A small family mass was held in the spring and Grace joined Mitch in the columbarium at the Penticton Cemetery.

Edited from vancouversunandprovince.remembering.ca

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