The Pillars (Spring 2026)

the PILLARS

living a life of purpose

CONTENTS

THE WEIGHT OF GRACE

This painting depicts a young woman seated beside two red-crowned cranes, traditional symbols of longevity, prosperity, and virtue in Chinese culture. Her calm, composed posture reflects a moment of quiet stillness, emphasizing both her potential and the expectations placed upon her. The purpose of this piece is to explore how ideas of a meaningful and purposeful life are often introduced through cultural values and symbolism at a young age. In connection to the theme of “living a life of purpose,” the work suggests that purpose can begin as something externally defined, shaped by tradition before it is personally understood.

—Agnes Yang, Grade 11

6

Leading with Connection

In her new book, Dr. Cinde Lock explores how real-world partnerships can empower students to find purpose, develop their passions, and engage meaningfully with the world around them.

50

Grand Reopening of the Eric Veale Memorial Arena

A spirited 11–9 alumni win opens a new era at “The Barn,” bringing the Pickering College community together to celebrate its hockey legacy and future.

Cultivating Impact Through Experiential Learning

Blue & Silver Farm connects students with community partners to drive hands-on learning in sustainability, innovation, and environmental stewardship.

HEAD LINES

with Dr. Cinde Lock, Head of School

Human Connection: Where Purpose Begins

Across education, schools are facing a growing challenge: student engagement is declining, as the world around them is becoming more complex. In response, many educators are asking a fundamental question: Are we starting in the right place?

It is a question I have been reflecting on for several years. It has led me to consider what truly drives students to care about their learning. Education must be about more than achieving good grades.

While academic outcomes matter deeply, they are not where the most meaningful learning begins.

It begins with connection.

When students connect their learning to authentic challenges, to their communities, and to their own evolving sense of identity, education becomes more than the completion of tasks. It becomes purposeful. Students begin to see themselves not only as learners, but as contributors who can make a meaningful impact.

Our faculty thoughtfully design experiences that allow students to connect with their interests, the natural world, their responsibilities as engaged citizens, and one another through collaboration. They also engage in the process of innovation through inquiry and iteration. These experiences create the conditions for deeper thinking, stronger engagement and lasting understanding.

But what does this look like in practice?

Picture an airport. In a traditional model of education, the teacher is expected to fly the plane, with every student on the same route at the same time. The path is prescribed, with limited flexibility, and it tends to favour those who succeed within a narrow definition of achievement.

Now consider a different approach. Our teachers act as air traffic controllers, not pilots. Students are navigating their own paths, while teachers guide, support, and monitor each journey. Every learner is on a path that is purposeful, appropriately challenging, and leading to a destination that is meaningful to them personally. The routes may differ, but the care, attention, and intention behind each journey remain constant. This is how engagement is sustained.

Make no mistake, this approach does not diminish academic rigour. In fact, it strengthens it.

When students are genuinely engaged, they think more critically, persist through complexity and achieve at a higher level. Academic excellence and purpose are inseparable.

In this issue of The Pillars, you will see this approach in action through the stories of our students and alumni. They are not only prepared for what comes next. They are already shaping it. When connection is intentional, purpose follows. And our students are stronger for it.

Dr. Cinde Lock Head of School

Leading with Connection

Dr. Cinde Lock launches new book calling for a rethink of how schools are designed

“Students thrive when they feel connected to their learning, their teachers, and something beyond themselves.”

On a February evening in West Lake House, Dr. Cinde Lock launched Connections Academics and Purpose: Designing the Future of School, a book that challenges how schools approach learning. Co-written with her daughter, Anneke Lee, the book blends the perspectives of a seasoned educator and a former student, whose firsthand experience in international schools shaped the philosophy behind it.

“This book has been a labour of love,” Lock said, pausing to take in a room filled with colleagues, parents, alumni, students, and community members. “It comes from years spent in schools around the world, watching what lights students up, and what dims that light.”

That insight inspired the CAP Method—Connection, Academics, Purpose—developed through Lock’s work in six countries. Across continents, one pattern emerged: students thrive when they feel connected to their learning, their teachers, and something beyond themselves.

To illustrate her point, Lock invited two Grade 4 students to share about what they had been developing in the school’s Sphere Program for students in Grades 4 & 5. Sawyer Kassam and Ivy Mastrosov described a project their class undertook last fall in partnership with the London Main Garden in Newmarket. Their challenge: help older volunteers manage watering tomato plants during summer heat.

“We built a pipe system and 3D-printed the ends so nothing moved,” Sawyer said. “We even coded a daily watering system, so the volunteers didn’t have to be there.”

Ivy recalled the trial-and-error of installing the system. “When we finished, it made me feel proud,” she said. “I was nervous explaining it to the volunteers, but knowing it would help them made it worth it.”

Their reflections illustrate a central idea in Lock’s book: students are not just completing assignments; they are contributing to something meaningful.

For generations, schools have started with a curriculum that defines what students must know and how they are assessed. Lock asks: What if learning began with human connection instead? With real people, real problems, and stories worth understanding?

From that question, the CAP Method was born. Its principle is simple: before students can dive into academic work, they must first understand why it matters. And the “why” is not found in textbooks, but in relationships and relevance. “There is no other profession on the planet where the outcome of everything we do is a person,” Lock said. “That is quite a responsibility, and we need to get it right.”

Joshua Armstrong, Director of Teaching and Learning, explained how the philosophy shapes classrooms at Pickering College. “Connection is not sentimental,” he said. “When students feel known, they take intellectual risks. They try harder problems. They revise instead of defend. They recover from setbacks more quickly. That is where rigour begins.”

Academic excellence, including scholarships, university admissions, and high achievement, remains central to Pickering College. But Armstrong emphasized that the school’s mission extends beyond measurable outcomes.

“Our mission is to instil in each individual the ability and responsibility to make the world greater, better, and more beautiful than they discovered it.”

The CAP Method is already shaping classrooms. Students collaborate with community organizations, tackle authentic problems, and apply math, science, and writing as tools to make sense of the world. Learning becomes contribution, not just completion.

Stories shared during the launch, from irrigation systems to museum partnerships, demonstrate how Pickering College students move from performing learning to owning it. They collaborate across differences, engage with real issues, speak with clarity, and act with purpose. Connection turns curiosity into action.

Lock said the book was written with urgency. Pickering College is well-resourced, staffed by capable educators, and positioned to innovate. That privilege, she believes, comes with responsibility. “Maybe through this work,” she said, “we will start a movement.”

The room responded with applause—not only for the book, but for the vision it represents: a school where connection is the catalyst, academics are the engine, and purpose gives learning its direction. A place where students don’t just learn, they contribute, discovering their ability to shape the world.

To learn more about the CAP Method, visit www.cindelock.com

JUNIOR SCHOOL STUDENT LIFE

Grade 3 students visited Blue & Silver Farm to learn about Indigenous traditions, including the meaning of a tobacco offering, and took time to show respect and gratitude for the land. While exploring the natural space, they gathered spruce, cedar, dogwood and seasonal berries, later using them in class to create festive holiday decorations. 1

Sphere Program students launched their Hearth to Atmosphere unit at Crawford Lake, exploring its rare meromictic lake and a reconstructed 15th-century longhouse village. After hiking the trails, studying the lake’s unique chemistry and stepping inside the longhouse to handle artifacts, examine tools and even play lacrosse, they

discovered how innovation, culture and the natural world are deeply connected. 2

Senior Kindergarten students explored dinosaurs through hands- on math, science, and play. They measured giant footprints, created fossils, erupted volcanoes, and built imaginative prehistoric worlds as their inquiry came to life. 3

Grade 2 students took part in the Hour of Code, a global initiative introducing learners to coding. Tackling the Grinch Challenge, they used blockbased coding, along with persistence and humour, to solve problems and strengthen their skills. 4

Grade 5 students explored the vast and ecologically diverse Great Lakes–St. Lawrence watershed, which holds one-fifth of the world’s surface fresh water. Using the Canadian Geographic Society’s impressive eight-by-11-metre floor map, they visualized the interconnected network of rivers, lakes and wetlands. The experience introduced their

social studies unit on First Nations and early Europeans while encouraging students to consider stewardship, environmental responsibility and the challenge of ensuring sustainable access to clean water. 5

Grade 1 students visited CIBC Square for a behind-the-scenes look at modern workplace

design and city architecture. Acting as “temporary employees” for the day, they used proxy cards to access staff-only areas while exploring how different spaces function in a contemporary office. The visit ended with students sketching the Toronto skyline in their sketchbooks. 6

A little drizzle didn’t dampen

the joy at this year’s Carnaval. Students enjoyed calèche rides, queues de castor, campfire songs, hot chocolate and a crowd-favourite glissade supported by parent volunteers. Senior School French students led a lively obstacle course for Grades 2 to 5, while Bonhomme kept spirits high throughout the day. 7

Where Questions Lead...

Our youngest students’ curiosity guides real-world investigations that connect science, history, and innovation with purpose.

Across grade levels at Pickering College, learning often begins with a simple question: What happens to a tree through the seasons? How does a clock keep time? Could a robot pick a strawberry without crushing it?

“These questions may seem small, but some of the most powerful learning happens when students begin with something real in front of them,” says Dr. Cinde Lock, Head of School. “When they’re given the space to explore and respond to what they discover, learning becomes personal.”

At Pickering College, moments of curiosity often grow into projects that stretch across disciplines, inviting students to observe closely, ask new questions, and collaborate in solving real-world problems.

Curiosity as the Starting Point

From an apple tree to a centuries-old clock to a robotic strawberry picker, each project begins the same way: curiosity. Observation turns into investigation, and simple questions grow into collaborative discoveries.

“When students feel ownership of their learning, their motivation changes completely,” says Julia Hunt, Assistant Head of School, Strategic Initiatives. “They’re not just completing an assignment, they’re discovering something that matters to them.”

At Pickering College, those moments of discovery help students see learning not simply as a series of subjects, but as a way of understanding the world and their place within it.

What happens to a tree through the seasons?

How does

a clock keep time?

Could a robot pick a strawberry without crushing it?

The Story of a Tree

For Grade 1 students, their inquiry began with a single apple tree on campus. Regular visits to the tree allowed the students to observe changes, study the bark and leaves, photograph the branches, and track the progress of fruit. In autumn, they harvested apples, made apple crisp, and pressed juice, comparing their creations with store-bought versions.

They read stories about trees, explored the many roles trees play in ecosystems, and created their own illustrations. “At this age, the goal is to help students notice the world around them,” explains Shawna Modeste, Grade 1 faculty. “When they return to the same place over time, they start to see patterns and seasonal changes they might otherwise miss.”

In the project’s second year, students returned to find the tree bare, its leaves spotted, and its buds absent. Suddenly, observation turned into investigation. An arborist helped the students explore climate data, pollination, and pruning, prompting trips to local orchards and conversations with experts.

“The moment the students asked, ‘What’s wrong with our tree? Where did all the apples go? The entire inquiry transformed,” Modeste recalls. “They weren’t just learning about trees—they were solving a real mystery. They needed to investigate and find out what happened to all the apples.”

At the conclusion of the year, the Grade 1 students created an illustrated book to share their yearlong inquiry, documenting what they had discovered about their tree and how it is part of a larger ecosystem shaped by weather, pollinators, and time. They also collaborated with Mrs. DeMarco and the Grade 3 students to create a flower garden to help attract more pollinators to the apple orchard at Pickering College.

A Clock That Brought History to Life

In Grade 4, discovery began with a centuries-old grandfather clock that had stopped working in the Head of School’s office. When Paul Knappett and fellow clock repair specialist Singh Sagoo visited the school to look at the clock, the class seized the opportunity to connect the clock’s repair to a Grade 4 unit on gears and mechanical systems.

“Real-world problems create powerful learning moments,” says Dr. Lock. “When students see how knowledge applies beyond the classroom, their curiosity naturally takes over.”

The students examined the clock’s inner workings, discovered a centuries-old “bandage” on the bell (likely meant to soften its chime), and polished its wooden case with lemon oil, watching the grain come to life with each careful stroke.

“They were amazed by the transformation,” says Mrs. Romkema, Junior School faculty. “Even small actions can restore something valuable.”

The project expanded into history and mechanics. Students built clocks with transparent covers so they could see the gears in motion and learned about Roman numerals and pendulum mechanics.

When the repair experts returned, students helped reassemble the pendulum and weights, and also heard Sagoo’s story of immigrating to Canada and learning his craft.

“They weren’t just learning about gears,” Romkema says. “They were learning about craftsmanship, history, perseverance, and the human stories behind the objects we use every day.”

Engineering the Future

In the Sphere Program, discovery takes students into complex, real-world challenges. This year’s theme, Science of Life, explores the world through different lenses, including the lens of the strawberry.

Students have studied strawberries from every angle, examining seeds under microscopes, analyzing their structure, and learning about the fruit’s cultural significance.

“Students have approached it from many directions—scientific, cultural, and technological,” says Hunt.

Guided by an Indigenous educator, students also learned that strawberries hold special significance in Anishinaabe tradition and are welcomed as one of the first medicines of spring.

They then tackled a real-world engineering challenge: designing a robotic strawberry picker.

Partnering with agri-tech company Moduleaf, students designed and 3D-printed grippers to attach to a robotic arm, engineered to pick ripe strawberries without crushing them. They trained the system using AI to distinguish bright red fruit from green.

“It’s a tricky problem,” Hunt explains. “You need enough grip to pick the strawberry, but not so much that you crush it. Students are constantly testing, refining, and improving their designs.”

While robotics, coding, and artificial intelligence were part of the project, the most important skills were human: collaboration, consulting experts, and designing useful solutions.

“Those are the skills that will stay with them long after the project ends,” Hunt adds.

When asked about their favourite subject, both answer without hesitation: Tech.

KATHERINE WANG IAN LIU

Embracing a year of firsts, together

For siblings Katherine (Grade 5) and Ian (Grade 4), this year has been full of firsts: their first year at Pickering College, their first experience in the Sphere Program, and their first time learning side-by-side in the same classroom. It’s a change they’ve embraced with enthusiasm, curiosity, and a shared love of hands-on learning.

When asked about their favourite subject, both answer without hesitation: Tech. For Ian, it’s VEX robotics: building, tinkering, and experimenting with structures that remind him of the LEGO creations he’s always loved. “I’m not as familiar with coding,” he admits, “but I can do it. And I like building things.” Katherine shares that enthusiasm, especially in 3D modelling and printing. “We get to build little machines that could help our farm,” she explains.

Blue & Silver Farm, Pickering College’s outdoor education property, is a highlight for both. They speak about it with joy: the meadow, the sugar shack, the greenhouse, the crops, hands-on projects, and pizza days. “We even get to take pumpkins home,” Ian says. Katherine lights up describing the animals, maple syrup, and learning in nature. “We are in nature for a lot of the day.”

Their favourite memories of the year come from the Sphere Program’s three-day trip to Montréal. Ian was captivated by the Cosmodôme, exploring space science, studying planets, and driving a simulated Mars rover. Katherine loved the Biodôme, an indoor wildlife centre filled with penguins, bats, crocodiles, and Canadian animals like beavers. “It was very cool.”

Outside of school, their interests continue to reflect their creative and curious minds. Ian participates in a VEX robotics club and builds with his own kit at home. Katherine takes both in-person and online art classes, spending hours drawing, imagining, and creating.

When asked about the future, Ian dreams of becoming a scientist or maybe even an astronaut. Katherine hopes to become a kindergarten teacher, inspired by her patience, her social nature and her ability to make friends easily.

When asked about living a life of purpose, both siblings already have a clear sense of what that means to them. Katherine speaks about her class project on plastic pollution in Fairy Lake and the importance of caring for the environment. Ian imagines using science to combat global warming and protect animals he loves, especially penguins. “Maybe I could add something to the Arctic to make it colder,” he says.

MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENT LIFE

The Design & Build SPARC group visited their community partner, CNIB, to share prototypes designed to support people who are blind or have low vision, from navigation tools to accessible games. Students presented their work to Rhonda, a CNIB team member with low vision who had guided their ideas throughout the process,

giving her the chance to experience their creations firsthand as the designs came to life. 1

The Middle School student committee hosted a lively Friday Night Club social, transforming Egan House into a disco-themed hangout filled with games, request-line music and plenty of treats.

Students embraced the fun, relaxed vibe and made the most of a memorable night together. 2

Middle School wrapped up its fall SPARC term with a celebration showcasing student projects and partnerships. Working in multigrade groups across areas such as robotics

and coding, social justice, identity and community, environmental stewardship and future design, students shared the real-world impact of their work with community partners, parents and faculty. It was a proud moment that highlighted both their learning and the relationships built during the term. 3

MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENT LIFE

The Environmental Stewardship SPARC group planted lettuce in the school’s FarmBot and is excited to work with this technology throughout the growing process. Students will monitor growth and collect data as the plants develop, gaining handson experience with sustainable food production. 4

Eight Grade 8 MySPARC students attended Working Together for the River of Life, a climate-action gathering at the McMichael Canadian Art Gallery. They learned from Indigenous leaders, conservation groups and environmental thinkers about regeneration and reconciliation in the Greater Tkaronto Bioregion. Inspired by these teachings, they launched

their GTB Earth Stewards project, designing Caja boxes to support sustainable food practices. 5

Social Justice and Advocacy SPARC students spent an afternoon at Mission Thrift, getting a behind-the-scenes look at the store’s operations and community impact. After learning from staff and volunteers about the

organization’s mission and volunteer network, they pitched in—tagging clothing, testing electronics, preparing items for pickup and stocking the sales floor. They were especially inspired to see that nothing goes to landfill and that all items stay in Canada. Many were reluctant to leave, proud of their contributions and eager to return. 6

CHARLOTTE SPATARO

A new place to belong

“To me, living a life with purpose means living life to its fullest.”

When Charlotte Spataro arrived at Pickering College in September, she stepped into Grade 8 as a brand-new student and one of three siblings joining the school at once. “We came as a package,” she jokes. Pickering College had long been the family’s goal, and when the opportunity opened, they embraced it.

Before PC, Charlotte attended another local school. The idea of switching schools for her final year of Middle School felt overwhelming. “I didn’t want to do it,” she admits. “Coming in at the end, when everyone already knows each other, was scary.”

But the fear didn’t last long. Within a week, Charlotte had found her footing. “Everyone here is so welcoming. I made friends really quickly. And my advisor, Ms. Merrick, is amazing. She checked in on me constantly and made sure I was settling in. That helped so much.”

Now, with Senior School on the horizon, Charlotte feels a mix of nerves and excitement. “I’m scared, but in a good way,” she says. “It’s definitely less scary than coming in new to Grade 8. I know people now. I’m excited for the freedom, and just … high school.”

When asked about her favourite subject, Charlotte lights up. Her answer is immediate: SPARC (Student Projects Advancing Real Change). “It’s so different from regular classes,” she explains. “Math and language are great, but they’re very sit-down, take-notes. SPARC is hands-on. You learn by doing.”

This term, SPARC became especially meaningful when Charlotte had the chance to work directly with her mother on their family business, PICC + COZY, a company that designs clothing for hospital patients with PICC lines. The mission is personal, and Charlotte speaks about it with pride. Their work is already making an impact: SickKids has officially accepted their product, and they are awaiting responses from other hospitals. “It’s been a long process,” Charlotte says, “but we’re really excited.”

“To me, living a life with purpose means living life to its fullest,” she says. “I really don’t like wasting my time. If I’m just sitting on my phone doing nothing, I think, ‘Wow, that’s time I’ll never get back.’” She has learned to recognize those moments and pivot. Instead, she chooses connection.

Purpose, for Charlotte, is about intention. It is about choosing meaningful action over distraction, choosing people over screens and choosing to build, create and contribute.

Bringing Stories to Life

Middle School students collaborate with the Elman W. Campbell Museum to connect past and present

In a small gallery on Main Street in Newmarket, history is told not only through artifacts and archival photographs, but also through the work of Pickering College students who have helped bring those stories to life.

A group of Middle School students spent the fall/winter term working in partnership with the Elman W. Campbell Museum to research, design, and install a museum exhibit that explores the history of Quaker settlement in Newmarket and the story of Pickering College.

Through the school’s SPARC (Student Projects Advancing Real Change) program, the project allowed students to step beyond the classroom and into the role of museum curators, conducting research, analyzing primary sources, and shaping how history is presented to the public.

“Education does not live only within classroom walls, just as history does not live only within museum cases,” says Nadine Joinville, Cultural Programmer for History and Heritage with the Town of Newmarket. “When schools and cultural institutions work together, learning becomes experiential, layered, and alive.”

Throughout the term, students in the SPARC Community & Identity group worked alongside museum staff to develop both a permanent exhibit on early Quaker life in Newmarket and a temporary exhibit highlighting Pickering College’s history.

Their work began with research. Students explored archival materials, studied the lives and values of early Quaker settlers, and examined how those beliefs shaped the surrounding community.

They also reached out directly to Pickering College alumni, inviting them to share memories and artifacts from their time at the school. Those responses helped transform the project from a historical exercise into a deeply personal exploration of community.

“Listening to the alumni’s stories was one of the most enjoyable parts of the experience,” Grade 8 student Connor O’Leary shared during the SPARC celebration event. “Their memories brought the history of Pickering College to life and made our research feel personal and exciting.”

Some alumni even donated or lent personal items from their time at the school, which became featured artifacts in the exhibit. Students researched each item and wrote the

accompanying labels explaining its significance, a task that required both historical accuracy and careful storytelling.

Among the stories shared were humorous glimpses of student life in decades past, including one alumnus who admitted to sneaking into the school kitchen at 2:00 a.m. for steaks and ice cream … a reminder that history is not just about dates, but about the experiences that shape a community.

This community partnership also gave students a rare glimpse at the professional world of museums. Students spent one day each week working at the museum, learning how exhibits are planned, designed, and built. They explored how curators use layout, lighting, artifacts, and concise interpretive panels to guide visitors through complex narratives. A visit to the Royal Ontario Museum provided further inspiration, allowing students to observe how large institutions organize galleries and present historical and cultural stories.

They also conducted additional research at the Newmarket Public Library, where they accessed books and historical resources on Quaker history.

The culmination of the project came in January, when students worked together to install the exhibit. Artifacts were carefully placed, labels were mounted, and the gallery space was arranged to guide visitors through the story they had spent months researching. Seeing the finished exhibit, which is open to the public and displayed alongside professional galleries, was a powerful moment.

“Watching students wrestle with these questions and transform their research into a professional exhibition was a vivid reminder that education is most powerful when students are trusted with real responsibility and real audiences,” says Joinville.

For Pickering College, the collaboration reflects a broader commitment to experiential learning and community engagement, helping students see how their work can contribute meaningfully beyond the classroom.

“Overall, this project helped us grow as researchers, communicators, and collaborators, and it showed us the importance of preserving and sharing history with others,” Grade 8 student Marvin Zhang explained at the SPARC celebration event.

And now, thanks to our students’ efforts, visitors to the Elman W. Campbell museum can learn about those stories as well.

Through the school’s SPARC (Student Projects Advancing Real Change) program, the project allowed students to step beyond the classroom and into the role of museum curators, conducting research, analyzing primary sources, and shaping how history is presented to the public.

SENIOR SCHOOL STUDENT LIFE

Four Grade 9 students attended the LSF Climate Action Youth Forum at York University, joining peers for workshops on climate justice, biodiversity, sustainable seafood, fashion impacts and youth-led climate solutions. They ended the day planning action projects for the school, supported by a $500 grant to help bring their ideas to life. 1

Eight Senior School students travelled to Ridley College in November for the Thrive Leadership Conference. They heard keynote speakers, joined student-led workshops and in the afternoon led their own sessions—Ariana Heidarpour Meymeh on engagement, Bilal Ahmed on student buy-in. The day ended with a Parade of Ideas, where CIS schools

showcased standout initiatives. Students returned inspired and eager to explore new possibilities for the Senior School community. 2

Senior School students excelled in the Canada Lynx Mathematical Competition, the American Mathematics Competition, and the University of Waterloo’s

CSMC and CIMC contests, earning top -percent rankings, Provincial Honour Roll placements, perfect scores, and multiple AIME qualifications. Both senior and intermediate teams ranked among the strongest in Ontario and Canada, showcasing exceptional mathematical talent across the school. 3

Five Grade 12 Accounting students represented Pickering College at the RBC EmpowerHER Lunch and Learn at RBC headquarters in Toronto. After a tour of the Capital Markets trading floor, they enjoyed a one-on-one lunch with an RBC employee, asking career questions and gaining personal insights. The students demonstrated the

confidence, professionalism and curiosity that define Pickering College learners. 4

Grade 12 International Business students explored global issues through a collaborative podcast project, tackling ethical dilemmas where cultural values and economic priorities intersect. Working in pairs, they examined how history,

culture and economic systems shape business decisions and engaged in thoughtful dialogue that considered multiple perspectives while strengthening communication skills and global awareness. 5

Students from the Global Studies and Incubator programs attended York University’s C4 Capstone event,

exploring interdisciplinary projects and speaking with professors about cuttingedge research. They tested creative solutions to complex challenges, connected with peers and mentors and saw how collaboration drives innovation. The experience inspired new thinking for their own Grade 12 Capstone projects. 6

Grade 11 LEAP and Grade 12 Leadership students completed their winter outdoor education trip, building traditional quinzhee snow shelters. Alongside cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, Grade 11s

used their handcrafted hide mittens, while some Grade 12s spent the night in the shelters they built. The experience challenged students to problem-solve, collaborate and adapt to a winter environment. 7

Grade 12 Financial Accounting students joined the University of Toronto’s BEUNLIMITED Case Competition, competing with 85 teams and more than 400 students from across the GTA. With two hours to prepare, they developed strategic plans to help Sloane’s House, a

Durham Region organization supporting families navigating pediatric palliative care, increase cash flow. One team, The Fiscal Forces, advanced to the finals and earned first place with innovative ideas, strong financial analysis and a $1,200 prize. 8

“I like discovering what I need to know and then figuring it out.”

RAY LIU

Driven by curiosity and a love of learning

When Ray Liu walks into a room, he brings a quiet confidence and deep curiosity. Now in Grade 10, he joined Pickering College in Grade 7 after attending public school in Markham. Before that, he spent nine years in school in China before moving to Canada in Grade 4. His experience across continents and school systems has shaped a student who seeks challenge, embraces opportunity and pursues learning with genuine enthusiasm.

Ray and his family chose Pickering College for its strong academics and breadth of opportunities. “At Pickering, there are so many ways to get involved: competitions, conferences, clubs. It’s much more than what I had access to before,” he says.

A self-described “math person,” Ray’s interest began in Grade 1 and has only deepened. “I really enjoy the logic and problem-solving,” he says. “I like doing practice questions, learning advanced concepts, and preparing for contests.” His dedication led to an eighth-place finish in the province in the Canadian Intermediate Mathematics Contest, among an estimated 1,000 participants. “I was really proud of that,” he says. “It came from years of practice. I’m not forced to study math, I genuinely enjoy it.”

Ray is also active in business competitions, including DECA and the Canadian National Leadership Conference (CNLC). This year, he placed first in Economics, earning a spot at the National Leadership Conference in the United States this summer.

His approach to preparation reflects independence and initiative. When he recognized a gap in his financial knowledge, he took it upon himself to improve. “I really enjoy self-learning,” he says. “I learn faster when I can go at my own pace. I like discovering what I need to know and then figuring it out.”

In addition, Ray attended the Quaker Youth Leadership Conference last year, where he explored Quaker values of activism, truth and peaceful change. The experience included extended periods of silent reflection, which he found particularly meaningful, as having time for reflection leads to deeper thinking.

“To live a life with purpose doesn’t mean following a purpose someone else gives you,” he says. “It’s about living the purpose you choose; living true to yourself, your passions, and what matters to you. And thinking about how you can contribute to the world as yourself.”

BOARDING LIFE

“BENE PROVISA PRINCIPIA PONANTUR.” Freely translated, it means “Let foundations be well planned.” At Pickering College, this motto is more than a phrase; it reflects how we approach the student experience from the very beginning.

For new boarding students, that beginning has traditionally arrived on Labour Day, when they step into a full and active campus during one of the busiest weeks of the year. It is a moment filled with excitement, but also with a great deal to take in all at once.

This year, we asked a simple question: What might be possible if students had more time to arrive, adjust, and connect before the academic year began?

The answer is the Boarding Smart Start Program.

Smart Start creates a more intentional entry point into boarding life, and is rooted in care and compassion. Instead of being immediately immersed in the pace of a full school week, new students arrive early and are given space to settle into their surroundings, begin forming relationships, and become comfortable with daily routines. It offers a quieter, more focused introduction to life on campus, designed to ease the transition and set students up for success.

Over the course of five days, students are welcomed by boarding staff, student proctors, and mentors who guide them through

the early stages of their experience. Together, they begin building the relationships that will support them throughout the year. At the same time, students are introduced to academic expectations, technology, and the rhythms of boarding life in a way that feels measured.

The goal of Smart Start is simple but powerful: to ensure students feel grounded, prepared, and supported as they begin their boarding experience. When students feel secure early on, we see stronger engagement, reduced anxiety and homesickness, and a greater sense of belonging.

For families, this period offers reassurance as well. It creates an opportunity to experience the transition alongside their child, to connect with staff, and to better understand the environment their child is stepping into. Students build confidence as they navigate the transition in stages, so that they enter the first day of classes already familiar with their surroundings, their peers, and the expectations ahead of them.

At its core, Smart Start reflects an understanding that the first moments of boarding life matter, not just in setting routines, but in shaping confidence, relationships, and overall well-being.

As Pickering College continues to evolve, Smart Start represents one more way we live out our commitment to care, connection, and purposeful beginnings, ensuring that every student has the foundation they need to thrive.

Mentorship and Design-Based Learning: Helping Students Build a Life of Purpose

Learning to live a life of purpose doesn’t happen overnight. Pickering College students are encouraged and given space and opportunities to reflect on their strengths, discover their passions, and start to develop a sense of purpose for their own lives.

Many of these opportunities come through mentorship and design-based learning. PC Senior School students spend four years progressing through the Global Leadership Program (GLP), which focuses heavily on exploring ideas, testing solutions, and iteration: all components of design-based learning. They also receive plenty of guidance from mentors along the way, including teachers, alumni, and outside experts.

Chris Schneider, Director of the Senior School, says the GLP is about “giving students the opportunity to develop a sense of agency and start being changemakers now. We want to give students more and more of these opportunities where they’re actually making a difference in the world around them.”

The Grade 9 GLP curriculum focuses on sustainable innovation, strongly supported by science classes held at Blue & Silver Farm. Students can choose to focus on an aspect of the farm for their GLP project. Schneider says farm manager Nic Verbeek has been a valuable resource for students working on farm projects, including last year’s sustainability challenge winners, who developed a plan to plant cover crops on the farm to support soil regeneration.

“Nic has been a really fabulous mentor with these kids in taking this grand knowledge that the students have gained and applying it in a very specific context,”

Schneider says. “He’s not there to just give them the answers; he’s there to be a resource for them.”

Claire Zeng, one of the students involved in the cover crop project, agrees. “The communication with [Verbeek] was really key because he knows all about the farm, the soil quality, what has happened and what will happen in the future.”

The cover crop team also employed design-based learning: initially, they hoped to plant fig trees to help remediate the farm’s heavily depleted soil. But after research and consultation with Verbeek, they determined that fig trees were not a

good match for the local climate. So they iterated their concept, considering several other plants before landing on cover crops to keep invasive species down and fix nitrogen in the soil.

Zeng says working on the project has taught her the value of collaboration and self-motivation: “Most of the time we were working independently, since it’s such a big project. Seeing those different pieces that everyone has been working on slowly coming together to create the final project taught me the value of collaboration and how important community is,” she says.

Senior School teacher Brooke Overington supervises Pickering College’s Impact Incubator, which supports Grade 12 students whose final GLP projects involve developing a viable product. She connects them with mentors who can help turn their ideas into real-world solutions to existing problems.

“We created this incubator for those students who really wanted to go above and beyond with their project,” says Overington. Approximately six students are chosen for the incubator each year, from around 20 applicants. Past products include a financial literacy board game,

a Chrome extension that detects bias in online media, and a wellness journal for patients at Sick Kids hospital.

Overington says that once she connects a student with a mentor, they are fully responsible for maintaining that relationship. “There’s a really high level of professionalism that the students need to display,” she says.

Incubator projects also involve designbased learning. A mentor may shoot down a student’s initial idea or challenge them to come up with more feasible alternatives. Overington says that iteration

process helps students build the skills they need to succeed.

“The resilience and perseverance these students have shown, sending a million emails, following up, not backing down when someone says ‘no,’ has been amazing,” she says.

Learning from experts and working through difficult challenges prepares students to go out into the world and make change where they believe it is needed. You can’t learn that from a textbook.

THE COVER CROP PROJECT

HANEUL JOUNG

Finding her way forward

Grade 12 boarding student Haneul Joung has spent the past three years at Pickering College, a journey that has shaped her confidence, her passions and her sense of purpose. Originally from Korea, Haneul joined PC in Grade 10. “The boarding staff feel like family,” she says. “They give us freedom, but they’re always there with support. I really appreciate the respect they show us.”

One of the most meaningful parts of Haneul’s PC experience has been music. She joined the Senior Jazz and Instrumental Band in Grade 10, beginning on clarinet before switching to trombone this year. “I didn’t expect to love playing an instrument,” she says, “but Ms. MacDonald encouraged me, and I ended up really enjoying it.”

This spring, the band earned a gold-level award at the Humber Jazz Festival. For Haneul, the recognition represents more than musical achievement. “It shows how strong our bond is,” she says. “We’ve played together for years. It feels like a family.”

Outside the classroom, Haneul enjoys exercise and spending time with animals. She volunteers at a small animal shelter in King City, where she helps care for dogs and farm animals. “I love animals,” she says. “Volunteering there has been really meaningful.”

Haneul is also the founder of BeLife, an initiative she started focused on climate change, animal welfare and youth education. “It started with my interest in animals and wanting to improve animal rights,” she explains. “I’m still learning about leadership through it. I don’t always feel like a leader. I think I’m more of a supporter. Supporters are important, too.”

As she prepares for graduation, Haneul hopes to study marine biology, with a particular interest in marine animal neuro-systems and sustainable alternatives to current farming practices.

When asked what it means to live a life with purpose, Haneul’s answer is thoughtful. “It means facing challenges and not giving up,” she says. “Life has internal conflicts and frictions, but in the journey of confronting them, we find purpose. When we keep trying, the value of living appears naturally.”

With her compassion, curiosity and quiet determination, Haneul has made a lasting impact on the PC community and is ready to bring that same purpose into the world beyond Pickering College.

“I don’t always feel like a leader. I think I’m more of a supporter. Supporters are important, too.”

“True freedom comes from inside, not from how others see you.”

DANBI JOUNG

Exploring art, finding direction

When Danbi Joung arrived at Pickering College in Grade 9, she brought a portfolio, a dream and a determination to rediscover what art could be. Now in Grade 11, she reflects on nearly three years that have reshaped her creativity and sense of purpose.

Danbi grew up in Korea and attended a specialized middle school for art students. While technically rigorous, the environment felt restrictive. “We all had to draw the same thing at the same time,” she says. “They compared our work constantly. It limited our ideas.”

Searching for a place where creativity could expand rather than narrow, she applied to schools around the world. Pickering College stood out. “It felt student-focused,” she says. “They care about emotions, and I heard they wanted to broaden the art program. I loved that.”

At PC, Danbi found the freedom she had been craving. Instead of copying still lifes, she was encouraged to explore, experiment and develop her own artistic voice. “I wanted to improve my skills while finding my true style,” she says. “Here, I can do that.”

Art remains her favourite subject, but she also enjoys learning languages. “Every language has its own personality,” she explains. She now speaks three languages and continues to build her English and Spanish skills.

One of Danbi’s favourite things about Pickering College is how student work is celebrated. “My artwork can be displayed in the hallway where everyone can see it,” she says. “It’s meaningful to show who you are.”

Looking ahead, Danbi is drawn to installation and spatial art, which allows her to work in three dimensions. “I realized I’m more of a 3D person,” she says. “I like creating things you can move around or experience.”

She recently won first place in the international Peace Pals Art Contest, which received more than 4,000 submissions. The theme was freedom. “Most people draw pigeons or hands around the Earth,” she says. “I wanted something different.” Her piece shows herself reaching into water, symbolizing the search for inner freedom. “Water is pure,” she explains. “True freedom comes from inside, not from how others see you.”

Danbi’s perspective on living a life with purpose is shaped by the animated film Soul. “In the movie, they think everyone must have one big purpose,” she says. “But then they realize life itself can be the purpose, enjoying each moment, feeling thankful. As you experiment, you find your way. That becomes your purpose.”

ATHLETIC LIFE

A Season of Champions: Pickering College Teams Rise to the Top

Across courts and gym floors, from volleyball nets to basketball hoops, Pickering College athletes delivered a season to remember: one defined not only by championships, but by the character, camaraderie, and competitive spirit that brought them there. It was, in every sense, a championship year. Go Pumas!

With grit and heart, Pickering College athletes delivered one championship moment after another, each one a testament to the strength of the school’s athletic culture and the spirit of its student athletes.

Senior Boys’ Volleyball: A Perfect Season, A Perfect Finish

In the Fall, in front of a packed and electric Egan House crowd, the Senior Boys’ Volleyball Team capped off an undefeated season with a commanding win to claim the CISAA Division III Championship. Under the steady leadership of Coach Birt, the team showcased precision, resilience, and a level of cohesion that made every match feel like a masterclass in competitive play. Their championship victory was not just a win; it was the culmination of months of discipline and belief.

Junior Girls’ U14 Volleyball: Back-to-Back Gold

The Junior Girls’ U14 Volleyball team delivered one of the most compelling storylines of the season, capturing gold for the second consecutive year. Entering the tournament as the #4 seed, they refused to be defined by rankings. Instead, they powered through the bracket with fearless play, unwavering teamwork, and a determination that grew stronger with every serve and rally. Their championship run was a reminder that heart often outplays expectation, and this team had plenty of both.

Senior Girls’ Volleyball: A Golden Finish

Rounding out the remarkable run of victories, the Senior Girls’ Volleyball team captured gold with a performance marked by power, precision, and poise. Their season-long commitment to growth and excellence was evident in every match, but it was during the championship that their collective skill and determination shone brightest. This was a team that trusted each other, pushed each other, and ultimately earned a well-deserved place at the top of the podium.

Junior Boys’ Basketball: Undefeated and Unstoppable

The Junior Boys’ Basketball team added another chapter to the season’s success story, securing first place after an undefeated campaign. Game after game, they demonstrated a blend of athleticism, strategy, and unshakeable composure. Their ability to elevate one another on and off the court became their defining strength. The championship was the natural conclusion to a season where teamwork wasn’t just a value; it was their competitive edge.

Community Partnerships at Blue & Silver Farm Support Learning and Meaningful Contribution

Over the past several years, Blue & Silver Farm, Charles Boyd’s incredible gift to Pickering College, has become a living classroom where students can experience how collaborative, intentional actions create lasting impacts. All grades visit the farm regularly to plan and participate in projects and experiments focused on sustainable innovation, regenerative farming and environmental restoration.

In support of student learning at the farm, PC has built partnerships with organizations such as 7 Generation Greater Tkaronto Bioregion (GTB) and Trees for Life. These partners have generously offered their time, knowledge and resources to help PC students contribute to environmental stewardship and serve their community.

“Since the very beginning, there’s been a lot of community partnerships that have underpinned how we get the information necessary to run some of the projects we’re doing out there,” says Joshua Armstrong, Pickering College’s Director of Teaching & Learning.

7 Generation GTB provided funding for tree and shrub plantings along the farm’s two creeks and educated students and faculty about how riparian zones (land that borders waterways) help filter agricultural runoff and allow bird and animal species to thrive.

“It’s really been a great partnership,” says Brian Puppa, head of 7 Generation GTB’s Legacy Project. “There’s a lot of great work happening out there, and we want to make projects as meaningful and impactful as possible. Last year, we brought some funding and expertise

to help with pollinator planning in the gardens. We also connected [PC] to some regenerative farms that they were able to visit for more inspiration for what was possible at Blue & Silver.”

PC has also partnered with Trees for Life to plant a Miyawaki forest (or ‘little forest’), where a variety of native trees are planted very close together. Because they compete with one another for sunlight, they can grow up to 10 times faster.

“Trees for Life have been incredible. They direct us to a particular grant, and then when we get that grant, they match it as long as the school also matches it. This allows us to move forward on projects that we wouldn’t have been able to without that partnership piece,” says Julia Hunt, Assistant Head of School, Strategic Initiatives.

Kate Powell, Partnerships Manager at Trees for Life, is thrilled to work with students at Blue & Silver Farm. “What’s really neat is the students were directly involved with every phase of the project, from planning to planting and now to overseeing and monitoring. It’s really cool that they can be engaged with it every step of the way, and watch it grow and be true stewards,” she says.

Some of the Grade 11 Environmental Science students who helped plant the little forest say it showed how they can work together toward a common purpose and make a real difference.

“I think it probably influenced me a bit more to try and do things for the community instead of doing things for yourself first,” says Aidan Robinson-Vincent.

“A lot of times in school, we talk about doing something and making an impact, but we actually got to go out and do it. And we got to teach younger kids and inspire their curiosity about nature and how we can help our planet, even on a small scale,” adds Kate Schillebeeckx.

Puppa says Blue & Silver Farm enriches students’ lives in ways that go beyond academics. “There’s been all kinds of studies about the impact being in nature has on your mental health and physical health. It’s important for students to feel that connection to the land; it’s important to have those embodied experiences.”

Powell agrees. “We know that children and youth need access to green spaces, and having opportunities for children to be directly involved with tree planting is so valuable.”

Seeking out and nurturing these partnerships has helped Blue & Silver Farm become a community hub supporting local sustainability efforts. Both Trees for Life and 7 Generation GTB are planning future collaborations at the farm, including a composting system redesign and a buffer-zone planting.

“A gift like [the farm] comes with the responsibility to consider how we can engage not just our own students, but the larger community,” says Hunt. “Generally, the groups we’re working with have a regenerative focus. When they see people doing work in this area, they do want to get involved, which is amazing for the farm itself, but also for the students, to see that the work they’re doing has support from the community.”

In a sunlit classroom at West Lake House, students shift effortlessly from one activity to another. Some cluster around tables comparing ideas; others pull chairs into a circle for discussion. In a quiet corner, a student works independently, fully absorbed. Movement and collaboration are constant.

As Pickering College plans new learning spaces and updates existing classrooms, careful consideration is given to how the physical environment shapes student learning. Classrooms today rarely remain

Spaces That

in a single configuration for long. Even within the span of a single lesson, students may move between listening, collaborating, researching and reflecting.

The furniture by VS Manufacturing was chosen with this flexibility in mind. Tables can shift quickly from rows to collaborative clusters, while seating supports movement and varied postures throughout the day. The pieces are light enough to move easily and comfortable

enough to sustain focus.

“Learning is dynamic,” says Janet Downer, Assistant Head of School, Academics. “Students need opportunities to gather, collaborate, move, and think in different ways throughout the day. The environment should support that.”

Research increasingly points to the role of physical space in shaping learning. In their work on Spatial Proficiency, researchers

Inspire

Jill Ackers, Director of Education at VS America, and Dr. Hilary E. Hughes of the University of Georgia, describe how classrooms contain “hidden systems” of routines, relationships, and environments that influence how students and teachers interact. Rather than simply housing learning, the physical environment actively supports it.

The framework of Spatial Proficiency emphasizes three interconnected

elements: well-being, which nurtures safety, belonging, and emotional balance; spatial planning, which aligns furniture and layout intentionally with teaching goals and learning activities; and academic talk, which creates spaces that invite dialogue and collaboration among students.

“For us, the design of a learning space is purposeful,” Downer says. “When the environment is thoughtfully designed,

it invites curiosity and collaboration, and it helps students feel comfortable contributing their ideas.”

The result is a space that can evolve alongside the learning taking place inside it. Classrooms are living environments where conversation, creativity, and discovery can unfold in many ways. When they are designed with intention, they help create conditions where confidence and a sense of purpose can grow.

“Seeing their confidence grow and knowing I could play a small role in their development showed me that I was exactly where I was meant to be.”

In Convers

Brooke Overington Senior School Faculty

What is your educational background?

My educational background includes a Bachelor of Health Studies with Honours Specialization in Health Management and a Bachelor of Education, both completed at York University. I also hold additional qualifications in Adult Education, Co-operative Education, Guidance and Career Education, Special Education, and Teaching English Language Learners.

What are four adjectives that best describe yourself?

According to my students, four adjectives that best describe me are: Kind, funny, supportive and caring.

What is something you are proud of when it comes to teaching?

I am proud when I see a student refuse to give up in the face of a challenge. When something doesn’t go as planned and they say, “I will get it next time,” and take action to make that change. I am also proud when students realize that learning is not always linear. There will be ups and downs, and how they respond to setbacks is what truly matters and shapes their growth.

What is it that drew you to teaching?

I did not grow up knowing I wanted to be a teacher. There were no educators in my family, so it was never a career I seriously considered. As university applications approached, I felt unsure about my direction of what to do. My mom suggested teacher’s college because I had been coaching soccer each summer, which was the one job I genuinely loved. I enjoyed watching players improve and realized that coaching and teaching share the same foundation: patience, encouragement, and helping others reach their potential.

After being accepted into the York University Concurrent Bachelor of Education program, my placements confirmed it for me. I love teaching business, a subject I am passionate about, and, most importantly, building meaningful relationships with students. Seeing their confidence grow and knowing I could play a small role in their development showed me that I was exactly where I was meant to be.

What interests do you pursue outside of the classroom?

Outside the classroom, I keep life simple. I enjoy exercising, baking sweet treats, getting lost in a good book, and the occasional reality TV show. These little things help me recharge and reset.

What is something most people don’t know about you?

One thing people are always surprised to learn about me is that I have a major sweet tooth. Candy, chocolate, baked goods, I love them all. The surprising part is that I almost never finish them. I will happily buy the largest bag of candy, chocolate or chips, have a few just for the flavour, and leave the rest. At this point it has become a bit of a running issue in my household, since my willpower seems to be stronger than everyone else’s and the leftovers rarely stay untouched for long.

ation with:

What has been the biggest highlight from this school year to date?

My biggest highlight this year was the success of our DECA Chapter. In our third year as a team, we achieved tremendous results. The club reached maximum enrollment, many students qualified for provincials, and we celebrated our first student qualifying for DECA Internationals. Building this club from the ground up has been a labour of love, and I am thrilled to see how the students have embraced the opportunity and given their very best.

What is the best thing about your job?

The best part of my job is that no two days are ever the same. You never know what conversations you’ll have with students or how a lesson will unfold, even if you’ve taught it before. Some days I’m in the classroom, having heart-to-heart talks or making students endure the Accounting Debit and Credit song on repeat. Other days I’m on field trips, exploring caves or wandering the streets of Barcelona with 40 students. Some days I’m sprinting a 100-meter dash on Sports Day (Go Silver House!), and other days I’m sharing hilarious moments with colleagues in inflatable costumes for Halloween. Every day is full of surprises, and that unpredictability is what makes it so rewarding.

What is one teaching practice, routine, or strategy you can’t live without?

An organizer! I have the entire school year mapped out in an Excel spreadsheet. While things often change, having a clear plan allows me to be creative with class projects, adjust lessons, pace my courses to give students extra time on challenging concepts, and, most importantly, stay calm. Yes, teachers get stressed too, and having a plan helps manage that.

If you weren’t following this particular career path, what would you be doing?

If I weren’t pursuing this career, I would be running my own business. I’m not sure exactly what type, but I enjoy taking initiative, solving problems creatively, and seeing tangible results from my efforts. I know that running a business requires a lot of hard work and time, but I think entrepreneurship would allow me to combine these interests while building something meaningful.

As winter gives way to spring, there is a renewed sense of energy across Pickering College. It is a season of fresh beginnings, and we are excited to welcome our parent community to a time of connection, friendship and shared experiences.

The Pickering College Association (PCA) is a vibrant community of current and past parents, alumni and staff, united by a shared commitment to enriching school life. At its heart, the PCA brings people together through inclusive events and meaningful opportunities to connect.

We warmly invite all parents to get involved, whether by volunteering, attending events or simply meeting other families. It is a meaningful way to build

friendships while supporting the student experience. Through both friend-raising and fundraising, the PCA supports initiatives such as capital projects, innovative programming, new technology and curriculum enhancements.

This year, we were proud to host a range of events that brought our community together. A highlight was the Holiday Home Tour, featuring six beautifully decorated homes across Newmarket, Aurora and King City. This much-loved event showcased local talent while supporting the Newmarket Food Pantry, extending our impact beyond the school.

Throughout the year, parent volunteers have led a variety of initiatives, from staff appreciation and seasonal celebrations to weekly Friday walks and monthly coffee socials, creating simple, welcoming ways to stay connected. We also welcomed alumni parents back to campus to tour West Lake House, followed by Hockey on the Hilltop, a celebration of connection and community.

Looking ahead, we hope you will join us for several events: the Spring Luncheon on May 5 at King Valley Golf and Country Club, Fun Fair on May 25 and the Charles F. Boyd Invitational Golf Tournament on June 22 at Emerald Hills. We are also pleased to host the Network of Independent School Parents’ Associations (NISPA) annual general meeting on May 28, focused on the use of technology to inform, engage and recruit parent volunteers in school communities.

At Pickering College, we believe school is about more than education—it is about belonging. Our strength comes from the people who show up, get involved and support one another. The people are Pickering.

If you are looking to connect, get involved and make a difference, we would love to welcome you. Learn more on our website, follow us on Instagram @PCAParents or reach out at pcachair@pickeringcollege.on.ca.

We look forward to connecting with you. –Krystie Robinson-Vincent, PCA chair

ALUMNI CONNECTIONS

1940s

In memoriam: Bruce D. Gowdy ’47 passed away peacefully at Southlake Residential Care Village in Newmarket on Dec. 13, 2025, at 95 years of age. Bruce’s education included attending Pickering College in Newmarket and graduating from the University of Western Ontario’s business school in 1954. He became a chartered accountant and held senior financial roles throughout his career. He was active in community service, including as finance chairman of the Ajax Public School Board (1965) and president of the Ajax Rotary Club (1967-68). Bruce was a lifelong bridge enthusiast, achieving Life Master No. 269 at age 19 and later being inducted into the Canadian Bridge Federation Hall of Fame in 2014. He represented Canada in multiple World Bridge Olympiads, including earning a bronze medal in 1972. His other passions included curling and golf, earning a hole-in-one at age 87. Bruce and his wife, Mia, enjoyed a rich

retirement filled with theatre, opera, live music and travel. 1

1950s

In memoriam: John Douglas Haig ’53 passed away on May 19, 2024, just two days shy of his 90th birthday. Doug was born and raised in Lethbridge, Alta. He attended university in Montreal at McGill, then at the University of Alberta, where he met his wife, Joan. He went on to work as a drafting engineer for the Government of Alberta for most of his career. Doug was full of life and inspired everyone around him. As an avid cyclist and nature lover, he embraced the outdoors in every season. Music, travel and adventure brought him joy, especially shared with Joan and friends. With a wry sense of humour and boundless passion, Doug lived fully, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him. 2

1960s

In memoriam: Barry Charles Headon ’65.

We were recently informed that Barry passed away unexpectedly on Dec. 24, 2017, at the age of 73. He was a member of the Pickering College Class of 1965. He lived in Burlington and is survived by his wife of 36 years, as well as one son and one daughter. 3

In memoriam: John Edgar Bradley ’68, who passed away on Dec. 16, 2025, at the age of 77. John was born in Oshawa, Ont., and attended Western University and the University of Windsor. He enjoyed a long career with Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. In his younger years, John belonged to the Oshawa Flying Club, the Oshawa Golf Club and the Oshawa Curling Club. His pastimes included walking Pepper (his lovely dog), mentoring young people, reading non-fiction, maintaining his car, hosting friends over lobster and champagne, making hearty soups, and, with Pauline, taking long flights to exotic places. 4

1980s

After leaving Pickering College, Keith Singer ’88 ran Bow Valley Boot Company, creating custom boots for stars. He then turned his focus to mental health and addictions, working as a counsellor, building treatment facilities, and leading interventions across Canada.

Keith later helped develop a unique electric bike company, designing e-bikes, mobility vehicles, and electric dirt bikes. Alongside his work, he has pursued his passion for acting, appearing in TV shows, commercials and films. Keith lives in

Mount Albert with his two sons. His eldest runs his own company, and his youngest is training to be a professional boxer. He remains closely connected to Pickering College, proudly supporting Blue House. 5

2010s

Apolline Gaignard ’10 is currently the director of sales for vacation rentals at St. Martin & Anguilla Sotheby’s International Realty. She brings more than 10 years of hospitality experience with luxury hotel groups, including Four Seasons and Belmond, with roles in Toronto, Paris, St. Martin and Anguilla. Now back in her

hometown of St. Martin, Apolline helps clients escape the Canadian winter by curating luxury beachfront villa stays, complete with personalized concierge services, private chefs and in-villa spa experiences. 6

Ashley Coon ’11, our registered nurse at Pickering College, welcomed her second baby, Callahan “Calley” Coon, on Feb. 24, 2026. Calley is the perfect addition to the Coon family and big sister Kennedy (“Kenny”) is absolutely thrilled to have a new sibling. Congratulations to Ashley and her family on this exciting new chapter! 7,8

ALUMNI CONNECTIONS

2010s cont.

Natasha Krstajic ’13 is currently living and working in Toronto, where she serves as executive director of communications and public affairs at the Ministry of the Attorney General. It’s been a rewarding experience contributing to public service and leading strategic communications work. She welcomed a baby girl with her husband, Liam, in 2024, which has been an incredibly joyful and life-changing milestone. 1

Nick Sopuch ’13 joined the founding team at Axiom Therapeutics after investing in the founders during his time as a principal at Entrepreneurs First. After surviving cancer in his early 20s, thanks to a covalent drug discovered decades ago, Nick is now helping Axiom develop next-generation covalent therapies for

currently undruggable diseases, using advanced physics and machine learning. He lives in London, U.K., and also serves as a venture scout with Ada Ventures. 2

Alisha Popatia ’16 discovered her love for education at Pickering College and is now in her third year as an elementary school teacher with the York Region District School Board. She has also pursued her passion for fitness, becoming a part-time yoga and Pilates instructor. Returning to education feels like coming full circle, and she is beyond grateful. 3

2020s

Since graduating from Pickering College in 2020, Deven Hansraj ’20’s academic journey has taken him through both the sciences and business. He pursued

a dual degree at Western University and Ivey Business School, graduating in 2025 with an honours specialization in medical science and an honours business administration (HBA).

Today, he is continuing his path in health care as a doctor of dental surgery (DDS) student at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. Beyond the classroom, Deven is passionate about supporting others in the profession. He currently serves as a mentor for incoming firstyear dental students and has also been selected to participate in the school’s research program. These experiences allow him to combine his interests in science, leadership and service while contributing to the dental community. 4

The legacy of Sasha Au Yong ’21’s capstone project work has continued well after her graduation, nearly five years ago. Her work has grown beyond its original scope, and she hopes it will inspire others. Recently, the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) generously published and is distributing 5,000 copies of Something’s Different About Grandpa in English, Mandarin and Spanish. Sasha is thrilled that the book can now reach a wider audience and support those

SEND US AN UPDATE

If you have had any recent milestones or life events or would simply like to update the alumni community about what you are up to, we welcome you to let Pickering College know!

Email a short update and photo of yourself to alumni@pickeringcollege.on.ca to be featured in our monthly newsletter, Alumni Connects, or the upcoming Fall issue of The Pillars magazine!

We can’t wait to hear from you!

affected by Parkinson’s. 5

Maria Aritomo ’25 is studying jewelry and metalsmithing at the Rhode Island School of Design. During the winter semester, she also took a course, Photography, Dream and Play, exploring photography, dreams and play through experimental approaches. Recently, she participated in a discussion with her professor, Jung Joon Lee, and fellow Asian and Asian American students in preparation for a March

screening of Happyend (2024), which was followed by a roundtable discussion with director Neo Sora, composer Lia Ouyang and actor Shina Peng. The conversation explored themes of identity, globalization and the role of film as both a personal and political medium. Maria found the experience inspiring, encouraging her to think beyond traditional craft practices and engage more deeply with conceptual image-making and interdisciplinary approaches. 6

“Being able to bring clarity and accuracy feels important. If I can help even a small part of the audience navigate confusing information with a little more confidence, that’s meaningful to me.”

Alejandra Ceballos Vargas ’15

Clarity in a Noisy World

For Alejandra Ceballos Vargas ’15, her natural curiosity has led her to find her purpose. It has laid the foundation on which she has built a career, chasing clarity and making sense of a complex, interconnected world where misinformation can spread in a matter of minutes.

As a fact-checker with Reuters, one of the world’s largest and most trusted international news agencies, her curiosity shapes her daily work in one of the most critical areas of modern journalism. “I love diving into new topics … I’m definitely the kind of person who falls into endless Wikipedia rabbit holes,” she says.

After graduating from Pickering College in 2015, Ceballos Vargas moved to the United Kingdom to pursue an undergraduate degree in journalism from City, University of London, followed by a master’s in Global Governance and Ethics at University College London. When the COVID-19 pandemic began, she returned to her home country of Mexico and began working at a local media outlet covering international news. Two years later, she joined Reuters, where she found her niche in fact-checking, a role she had not initially considered. “I didn’t even know fact-checking could be a career path,” she admits. “I stumbled into it … and I’m really grateful I did.”

Now based in Mexico City, a major political, economic and cultural hub, Ceballos Vargas works in an environment that offers a constant flow of stories and developments, where the pace is fast and the stakes are high.

A typical day involves monitoring social media, scanning global news and investigating claims that range widely in scope and geography. One day might involve analyzing an AI-generated image of a political figure; the next could require identifying the location where a video was filmed by using visual clues. From elections to natural disasters, and across regions spanning Latin America, Europe and the Middle East, no two days are ever the same.

“Being able to bring clarity and accuracy feels important,” she says. “If I can help even a small part of the audience navigate confusing information with a little more confidence, that’s meaningful to me.”

What drives her is the impact of the work itself. In an era where misinformation spreads rapidly and often deliberately, factchecking plays a vital role in maintaining public trust and understanding.

“It’s hard to pick just one example, but in January we dealt with a significant wave of misinformation surrounding the case of a woman in Minnesota who was fatally shot by an ICE agent,” she explains. “I wrote an article explaining how the agent had been misidentified online, which had led to unrelated people with that name receiving threats and harassment on social media. Cases like these really make you think about how misinformation can harm ordinary people.”

Ceballos Vargas emphasizes the importance of maintaining objectivity and rigour. She says at Reuters, high editorial standards guide every step of the process, helping journalists balance speed with accuracy in a fast-moving information landscape.

Looking back, she credits her time at Pickering College with helping to shape both her worldview and her career. The school’s diverse community exposed her to a wide range of perspectives, strengthening her ability to communicate across cultures. “Living in a boarding environment taught me independence and responsibility. Plus, I met some of my best friends there.”

In addition, supportive teachers encouraged her early interest in journalism. Faculty members, including Dean Gessie (retired), Dr. Wei Ping Lu (retired), and Dr. Kimberly Bartlett (now a course lecturer at McGill’s Faculty of Education), were particularly influential.

“Mr. Gessie was very supportive of my goal to become a journalist,” she says. “He invited me to join the school’s radio show a couple of times and gave me several opportunities to practice my writing. We still keep in touch on LinkedIn, which I appreciate.”

For current students considering a path in journalism or media, her advice is simple: stay curious. “Ask questions, listen carefully and read as much as you can. Don’t limit yourself to news or non-fiction – I’ve found that reading fiction has strengthened my writing.”

As this issue of The Pillars explores the theme of Living a Life of Purpose, Ceballos Vargas believes the key is to be happy.

“For me, happiness comes from doing work that I enjoy and being surrounded by the people I love,” she explains. “My job brings me that happiness because the work feels meaningful. It challenges me, keeps me curious and makes every day interesting.”

“We have the power to change our perspectives, attitudes and environment to foster accessibility and inclusiveness for all.”

Francis Fung ’97

Advocacy in Action

For W. Francis Fung ’97, purpose has been shaped by experience, guided by values and grounded in his commitment to building a more inclusive world.

Today, as Senior Manager of Skills Development and Employment at March of Dimes Canada and Engagement Lead for Inclusive Design for Employment Access (IDEA), Fung’s work sits at the intersection of community, policy and human rights. His focus: advancing disability inclusion and helping individuals and systems to reimagine what accessibility and employment can look like.

Fung’s journey began at Pickering College in 1995, where he arrived as a boarding student and was immersed in an environment that would shape his path.

“English is my second language,” he explains. “I remember when I was learning to speak English at Pickering College, trying to figure out what people were saying. I had to pay attention to people’s intentions and think about social context.” That early experience sparked an interest in language, cognition and social behaviour, which would guide his academic and professional choices.

After graduating from Pickering College in 1997, Fung attended Trent University, drawn to its similar close-knit community. Initially interested in the physical sciences, he found himself increasingly pulled towards psychology and the social sciences. After completing his bachelor of science, he began working in psychometric assessment, conducting cognitive and academic testing to support individuals with workplace injuries.

This role introduced him to a multidisciplinary world of psychologists, vocational rehabilitation professionals and occupational therapists. More importantly, it revealed the real-life challenges faced by individuals navigating disability, employment and recovery.

“These assessments were used to help people understand their return-to-work capacity and explore alternative careers,” he explains.

It was meaningful work, but he knew he wanted to do more in the community. This desire led him to the non-profit sector, where he focused on program development and direct service delivery to vulnerable and marginalized individuals. Along the way, he pursued additional professional credentials,

attaining his master’s in education, specializing in community rehabilitation and disability studies, from the University of Calgary.

While his early work focused on designing and delivering employment services, his current efforts are increasingly centred on research, community engagement and policy development. For Fung, this shift reflects a broader understanding of what it means to create lasting change.

“I think the most meaningful thing about this work is to be able to help people (not only the individuals with disabilities but also other stakeholders such as employers and policymakers) realize that disability is a human difference—an important part of human diversity,” he explains. “In fact, disability is a natural part of life and should not be viewed as just a medical condition. Disability is ultimately a social construct and disability-related barriers are created by society. We have the power to change our perspectives, attitudes and environment to foster accessibility and inclusiveness for all.”

This perspective has guided his work across collaborations with leading organizations, including Accessibility Standards Canada, Inclusion Canada and the Ontario Disability Employment Network. Through advisory roles and research partnerships, Fung contributes to initiatives that influence policy, improve accessibility and strengthen inclusive employment practices across Canada.

He also serves as Engagement Lead for IDEA, a social innovation lab focused on developing solutions that strengthen the capacity of Canadian workplaces to fully include persons with disabilities.

“I treasure these experiences because they offer unique opportunities to apply co-design principles, ensuring our work is grounded in real-world needs and is focused on impactful and sustainable outcomes,” he says.

Looking back, Fung credits Pickering College with instilling many of the values that continue to guide him today. Boarding life taught him independence and accountability, while the school’s emphasis on community encouraged him to think beyond himself.

“In my work, I often think about the values that I learned at Pickering College: that it is important to recognize there is

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good in every person, regardless of age, gender and ethnic background. And we need to hold a high degree of compassion and integrity and have respect for others. I am lucky to be in a profession that allows me to live up to these values, and I believe that is ‘living a life of purpose,’” he says.

As he looks ahead, Fung remains motivated by the evolving nature of the world itself. Increasing diversity, technological change and shifting social dynamics all underscore the urgency of advancing inclusion.

“Disability inclusion is more than legal compliance or a ‘nice and kind thing to do,’” he says. “It is fundamentally a human rights imperative, and it is a driver for social cohesion. All of these inspire me to keep working.”

For current Pickering College students, his advice is both practical and reflective: think deeply about the values you’ve been taught, understand your strengths and take action.

“Take a moment to think about the knowledge and wisdom instilled into you at Pickering College, particularly during Morning Meetings. What does it mean to be a good citizen? How would you change the world for the better? Try to align your educational pursuits and your skills with your aspirations and goals. Take pride in being an alumnus/alumna and know that you have the potential to be a leader in our communities. Don’t wait for things to happen to you—take action now.”

ALUMNI REUNIONS

ALUMNI REUNION TOUR AND LUNCH

In November, we had the pleasure of welcoming back our alumni to campus for a guided tour of West Lake House. Led by Head of School, Dr. Cinde Lock, our alumni got to see the newest addition to the Hilltop before enjoying lunch in the Dining Hall and heading over to the arena to take in the grand re-opening event for the Eric Veale Memorial Arena.

HOCKEY ON THE HILLTOP

In February, we were thrilled to welcome former Pickering College hockey players back to face off against fellow alumni Pumas at the Eric Veale Memorial Arena. Thank you to all the alumni and parents who came out to cheer. Your support made for an exciting, high- energy game filled with true PC spirit!

CLASS OF 2025 TOUR

We welcomed back members of the Class of 2025 for a tour of West Lake House, during reading week in February. For their grad gift, the Class of 2025 and their families generously supported funding the new kiln in the art room and the furniture that has brought the Senior School balcony lounge to life.

ALUMNI REUNIONS

TOKYO

Pickering College was proud to host a gathering in Tokyo, where Assistant Head of School, Advancement, Jessie-May Rowntree welcomed alumni and current parents for an evening of reconnection and shared stories. Over the years, students from Japan have represented themselves and their country exceptionally well, enhancing our academics, athletics, arts, and the depth of our boarding program, while also achieving excellent placements in post-secondary programs.

Pictured, back row (L–R): Scott Poole, Kentaro Sekizawa, Momoka Toya ‘21, Seira Kajiro ‘18, Lisa Natsume ‘19, Ami Matsuda ‘18, Jessie-May Rowntree, Rin Noguchi ‘23, Maki Natsume. Front row (L–R): Kei Sekizawa, Rei Sekizawa, Kaisei Sekizawa, Takahiro Ishikawa, Akiko Ishikawa.

MEXICO

Pickering College was delighted to host a special Alumni Luncheon in Mexico City, bringing together graduates for an afternoon of connection, reflection, and shared pride. Dr. Cinde Lock, alongside Janet Downer, Assistant Head of School, Academics and Student Programs, and Jessie-May Rowntree, Assistant Head of School, Advancement, joined alumni for this meaningful gathering.

Dr. Lock and Ms. Downer also shared updates from campus, highlighting the momentum and vision shaping Pickering College today. Alumni were introduced to West Lake House, our new academic building, learned about the continued growth of Blue & Silver Farm, and heard about key priorities for the months ahead.

The luncheon offered a wonderful opportunity to hear firsthand how our alumni are making their mark in the world, while reflecting on how their time at Pickering College helped shape their paths. Conversations were filled with stories of favourite memories, lasting friendships, and the enduring impact of their school experience.

As our first alumni event in Mexico City in many years, the warmth and enthusiasm of those in attendance was truly inspiring. We are deeply grateful for the strong and lasting connection our alumni continue to hold with Pickering College—and we look forward to returning again soon.

Pictured, front row (L–R): Gustavo Almada ’89, Maria Rosales (Alum mom), Miranda Cano ’20, Miranda Munoz Alvarez ’25, Paloma Muñoz ’18. Pictured, back row (L–R): Juan Carlos Diaz ’91, Jessie-May Rowntree, Assistant Head of School, Advancement, David Burgos ’18, Dr. Cinde Lock, Head of School, Mariana Alejandra Umana ‘18, Triana Almaraz ’15, Janet Downer, Assistant Head of School, Academics & Student Programs, Alejandra Ceballos ’15, Samuel Yen ‘89.

HONG KONG

Pictured above, (L–R): David Leung ’80, Francis Chan, Paul Sung ’79, Clement Lam ’88, Dr. Cinde Lock, Peter Lau ’82, Jessie-May Rowntree, Sunny Lai ’92, Gary Chester Sung ’98, Tim Yip, Eric Wong ‘78

Pictured left, back row (L–R): Gary Sung ‘98, Lily Ma ’97, Adrian Lee ’93, Albert Chang ’81, Michael Yik ‘81; Pictured left, front row (L–R): Paul Sung ’79, Francis Chan ’81, Jessie-May Rowntree, Cinde Lock, Clement Lam ’88, Carmen Lam.

Head of School, Dr. Cinde Lock, and Assistant Head of School, Advancement, Jessie-May Rowntree, were honoured to host two memorable gatherings in Hong Kong, bringing together alumni and current parents for an evening of connection and conversation. The room carried a sense of belonging that crossed continents, reminding us how deeply the Pickering College spirit endures wherever life leads our community. It was a heartfelt celebration of friendships, memories, and the ties that continue to bring us together.

LOOKING TO HOST A PICKERING COLLEGE REUNION?

We’d love to see more of our alumni reconnecting with the Pickering College community— whether by attending an event, mentoring students, or helping to bring classmates back together. Hosting or supporting a reunion is a meaningful way to celebrate your shared experiences while strengthening the network that continues to shape the school today. Our team is here to make it easy, from planning and promotion to coordinating spaces and activities. If you’ve ever thought about reconnecting your class or getting more involved, this is the perfect place to start. Email alumni@pickeringcollege.on.ca to get started!

A Legacy on the Ice

Eric Veale Memorial Arena reopens and begins a new chapter

On a crisp mid-November morning, the Pickering College community gathered for a homecoming of sorts: the reopening of the Eric Veale Memorial Arena.

Affectionately known to many as “The Barn,” the rink has long been one of the school’s most iconic spaces, famous for offering “the best ice in Newmarket” in the area’s coldest arena.

Students, parents, alumni, past parents, donors, and friends came together to mark the occasion and celebrate both the arena’s storied past and its bright future. The ceremonial puck drop was performed by Newmarket Deputy Mayor Tom Vegh, joined by members of the Veale family, underscoring the deep legacy of long-time teacher and former acting Headmaster Eric Veale, for whom the arena is named.

The arena’s story began with Veale himself, Class of 1931, whose commitment to Pickering College was as enduring as the rink he helped create. He spearheaded the fundraising efforts that brought the arena to life in 1971, laying the foundation for a space that would shape school life for generations.

“Eric always encouraged Roger, David, and me to have active sport lifestyles, which has served us well throughout our lives,” says Ron Veale ’61, Eric’s son. “The Eric Veale Memorial Arena carries on this Pickering tradition in a way that makes us all proud.”

Since its opening, the rink has welcomed countless skaters, from students taking their first tentative steps on the ice to others discovering a lifelong passion for hockey or figure skating. Alumni recall

practices, games, tournaments, and winter afternoons spent here, moments that continue to connect them to the school long after graduation.

For Eric Veale’s family, the reopening carried deep personal meaning.

“My daughters, Amanda and Alison, and I were honoured to be asked to participate in the grand reopening of the Eric Veale Arena. It was a very meaningful and emotional event,” says Cynthia Veale, Eric Veale’s daughter-in-law. “Eric would be proud to see his foresight become so much more than he ever could have dreamed. It has come a very long way since the 1970s’ initial fundraising and basic structure. I know he would approve of its evolution and vision for the students at Pickering.”

The arena has hosted many proud moments in the school’s athletic history. In 1986, the hockey team secured a championship title on this ice. Nearly forty years later, in a moment filled with both nostalgia and excitement, the 2024 Senior Hockey team brought home another championship title, just days before renovations began, cheered on by a packed crowd.

Each year, alumni return to campus for Hockey on the Hilltop to lace up, reconnect, and relive the camaraderie that defined their student days. Whether attending as a player or a spectator, many share cherished memories tied to this rink. Thanks to the ongoing generous support of the Veale family, fellow alumni, parents, staff, and members of the wider community, the arena has remained a vibrant part of campus life for decades.

After more than 50 years of service, the arena’s infrastructure had reached the end of its lifespan. A cracked ice pad and aging refrigeration system signalled that the time had come for renewal. Beginning in spring 2024, the arena underwent a major revitalization, including a fully reconstructed ice pad, new piping, insulated walls, and an upgraded refrigeration system for improved efficiency.

At the same time, the school transformed unused space at the south end of the building into a new multipurpose facility, aptly named Veale Gym. The addition brings a fourth gymnasium to campus, complete with a modern rock-climbing wall and expanded opportunities for student wellness and recreation.

“These enhancements preserve the arena’s character while meeting the needs of

today’s students,” says Dr. Cinde Lock, Head of School. “At Pickering College, we talk often about living a life of purpose. By revitalizing this space, we are creating opportunities for future generations to challenge themselves, build meaningful connections, and carry forward the traditions that make our community so strong.”

As for the first game on the newly minted ice, it was a battle for the ages. The Senior Hockey team put up a spirited fight against a seasoned alumni squad eager to reclaim their glory days. In the end, the alumni prevailed, winning the game 11–9, but the real victory belonged to the entire Pickering College community.

With the arena reopened and ready for the future, a new generation of students can now step onto the ice in “The Barn” to add their own chapters to its storied legacy.

AGM 2025

IN APPRECIATION OF SERVICE AND

STEWARDSHIP

PICKERING COLLEGE ACKNOWLEDGES DEPARTING LEADERS AND WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS TO THE BOARD AND CORPORATION

Pickering College is strengthened by the dedication and generosity of those who give their time and expertise in service to the school. This year, we extend our sincere gratitude to several departing members of the Board of Directors and the Corporation, and warmly welcome new members to these important governance roles.

We thank departing Board members Sal Bianco, Susan Cooper, and Beric Farmer for their outstanding leadership and commitment. Each has contributed meaningfully through years of service, offering strategic guidance and hands-on support across committees, initiatives, and community-building efforts. Their impact has been felt across campus planning and governance, volunteer leadership, and program development. Sal and Susan also conclude their service as members of the Corporation, with our deep appreciation.

We are equally grateful to departing Corporation members Vanessa Carson, Michael Da Ponte, Peter Dobbs ’87, Vivian Lee, Mareena Wallace ’13, Bo Wang, and Kevin Wietzes Through volunteerism, committee work, and active participation in school life, they have strengthened the Pickering College community and advanced its mission in countless ways.

At the same time, we are pleased to welcome new members to the Corporation: Frank Ji, Jason Li, Emma O’Dwyer, and Karen Whetstone. We also welcome Jason Foulds and Karen Whetstone to the Board of Directors. Each brings valuable perspectives and expertise that will support Pickering College’s continued growth and success.

On behalf of the entire community, we offer our heartfelt thanks to those who have served and extend a warm welcome to those beginning their journey in governance.

PICKERING COLLEGE

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

2025-2026

Mirella Morra, Chair

Patrick Turner ‘97, Vice-Chair

Beth (Thompson) Egan

Jason Foulds

David Hwang ‘89

Thomas Kim, Secretary and Treasurer

Olga Morawczynski

Shamus Rask

Karen Whetstone

Jason Yip

PICKERING COLLEGE CORPORATION 2025-2026

Eric Akbar

Reuben Bonerath

Beth (Thompson) Egan

Jason Foulds

Barbara Horvath

Eva Huang

Trevor Hunt

David Hwang ‘89

Frank Ji

Thomas Kim

Jason Li

Isaias Medina III ‘85

Olga Morawczynski

Mirella Morra

Emma O’Dwyer ‘01

Ivan Pooran ‘82

Shamus Rask

Krystie Robinson-Vincent

Claudia Schauer

Adam Shully ‘78

Riane Tse ‘07

Patrick Turner ‘97

Duncan Walker ‘69

Karen Whetstone

Roger Warren ‘51

Jason Yip

THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENEROSITY.

Living a life of purpose begins with the belief that our actions matter. It is found in the choices we make each day, in the care we extend to others, and in the responsibility we accept for helping to shape a world that is greater, better, and more beautiful than we found it.

At Pickering College, this sense of purpose is deeply connected to our values. It is reflected in the curiosity of our students, the dedication of our faculty and staff, the partnership of our families, and the generosity of our alumni, parents, employees, and friends. Together, we are part of a community united by a shared commitment to preparing young people to lead with courage, compassion, and integrity.

In this section, we are pleased to recognize those who have made gifts in support of Pickering College. Your generosity strengthens the student experience in meaningful ways. It helps create opportunities that inspire learning, belonging, leadership, creativity, service, and personal growth. It supports the programs, spaces, and experiences that allow students to discover their talents, understand their responsibilities, and consider how they might contribute to the world around them.

Just as importantly, your support reminds our students that they are surrounded by a community that believes in them. Philanthropy at Pickering College is not simply about giving to a school. It is about participating in the life of a community and investing in the promise of each student who learns here. Every gift, at every level, is an expression of confidence in our mission and in the young people who carry it forward.

The values of Pickering College have guided this community for generations, and they continue to shape the way we learn, lead, and care for one another today. Stewardship reminds us to care thoughtfully for what has been entrusted to us. Community reminds us that this work is shared. Through your generosity, these values are made visible in the daily life of our school, helping to ensure that Pickering College remains strong, vibrant, and purposeful for the students of today and for those who will follow.

On behalf of the Board of Directors and the entire Pickering College community, thank you. Thank you for your trust, your partnership, and your belief in the work we are doing together. Your support is felt across The Hilltop, and its impact will continue to be seen in the lives of our students for years to come.

With sincere gratitude,

Dr. Cinde Lock

Mirella Morra Head of School Chair, Board of Directors

$14,226,545 WAS DONATED IN 2024-2025 BY OUR GENEROUS PC COMMUNITY.

$572,100

$ 5,400,226 WAS DONATED TO SUPPORT ENDOWMENTS

INCLUDING GENEROUS GIFTS TO INCREASE FINANCIAL AID FOR DESERVING STUDENTS.

THANK YOU ONCE AGAIN TO ALL OF OUR PARENTS, STUDENTS, ALUMNI, STAFF, BOARD AND CORPORATION (100% CHARITABLE GIVING PARTICIPATION), FAMILY, FRIENDS AND SPONSORS. YOUR PHILANTHROPIC SUPPORT FOR PICKERING COLLEGE THROUGH OUR ANNUAL GIVING CAMPAIGN DEMONSTRATES TO ALL YOUR COMMITMENT TO THE SCHOOL AND THIS COMMUNITY. ANNUAL

$713,977 CAPITAL DONATIONS RESTRICTED DONATIONS

$7,540,242

IN SUPPORT OF FUTURE CAPITAL, THE ERIC VEALE MEMORIAL ARENA, BLUE & SILVER FARM, PC POWER OF COMMUNITY, COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY, EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS AND ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIPS AND BURSARIES.

GENEROUS PC VOLUNTEERS DONATED COUNTLESS HOURS TO ACHIEVING THE SCHOOL’S GOALS.

Recognizing donors as of June 30, 2025.

LEADERSHIP GIVING: CIRCLE OF FRIENDS

Natalie and Eric Akbar

AREA Foundation

Anurag Arun

Xueru Bao

L Laura Barclay

Barclay Herod Family Foundation

Bazil Developments Inc.

Claudine and Cheddi Beckford

L Charles Beer ‘59

L Christina and Sal Bianco

L Nicole and Graham Birt

Mary Lynn Blondy

Joan Lee and James Brown ‘69

Danielle and Michael Brown

L Penny Lawson-Cameron and Scott

Cameron Ceran Inc.

Lillian and Anthony Cericola

Xi Cao and Mao Zhi Chan

L Licong Pan and Lixun Chen

Eva Zhou and Ryan Chen

Jing Li and Lei Cheng

Jiwoo Kim and Woosoon Choi

ColWell Refrigeration Ltd.

Community Foundation for Kingston & Area Control Fire Systems Inc.

The Estate of Richard Crowther ‘47

Marnee and Michael Da Ponte

L Dr. Rolph & Mrs. Joan Davis

Jing Pan and Ning Di

Diamond Schmitt Architects Incorporated

Jing Dou and Dan Ding

L Mingjuan Wang and Mingjian Ding

Greg Dopulos ‘68

L Janet Downer

Naixin Zhang and Shaochen Du

L Beth Egan

L The Egan Family Foundation

Karen Elston

L Kaia and Patrick Farmer

Yue Zhang and Yong Feng

Yuhua Wang and William Fong

L Stephanie Forgie

Bridget Kilgallon and Jason Foulds Foundation Counts Philanthropic Foundation

L Lingling Li and Jianning Fu

Walter Kevin Fung ‘10

FX International

Gavin Gao

Xue Sun and Jun Gao

Fei Wu and Xiang Gao

Karen Whetstone and Richard Geurts

Heather Gray

Tao Tao and Rui Guo

Yue Liu and Zhigang Guo

Xin Chen and William Wenlei Hall

Hualing Shirley Wen and Dong Han

Hartley Built

L Ling Zhou and Gangfeng He

Li Zeng and Yi He

L Jason Herod

The Estate of John MacLaren Houghton ‘47

L Lanjun Li and Tao Hu

L Eva Huang

Zhenzhen Guo and Guanyu Huang, Jack Huang ‘30

Fang Liu and Haiyu Huang

L Xiaozhen Ruan and Haofu Huang

Ling Zi Bai and Ping Huang

L Julia and Trevor Hunt

L Tian Li and Weizhong Ji

L Ye Zhang and Zi Xuan Jia

Lufei Jia and Nan Jiang

Xiaoyu Cui and Yong Jiang

Yi Fei Chen and Max Jin

Cathy Gui and Anping Ju

Xiaona Yang and Yan Kan

L Khanna Family Foundation

Pooneh Khataei and Kian Khatami

Kipling Group

Candy Kitchell and Osman Kitchell ‘85

L Elaine Kliem

Liwei Si and Zhi Kui

Mila and Oleksandr Kurkin

Winston Lau ‘83

Hyang Le

Xi Zhang and Ming Lei

Ida and Anthony Leonetti

Leslie Whicher Personal Real Estate

Xiaoyue Huang and Dong Li

Ying Dong and Hongjie Li

Jingwen Tang and Jiaolong Li

Wei Jiang and Leon Li

Mengdi An and Rui Li

Yu Jin and Ruibin Li

Yan Li and Xiaofeng Li

Hui Zhou and Yao Li

Jia Nie and Zhong Li

Ann Xu and Yanbin Liang

Amy Ding and Calvin Lin

Qi Fan Liu and Chu Chun Lin

Yangjue Qiu and Haijin Lin

Fan Shi and Zhao Lin

Yang Xuan and Lei Liu

L Qiqi Deng and Victor Liu ‘95

Bin (Rebecca) Lu and Xiaodong (Mick) Liu

Huimin Mu and Yang Liu

Yue Chen and Zhixin Liu

Cinde Lock

Sha Li and Dong Lou

Anitka Rolczewski-Louli and Michael Louli

Yan Zhang and Kai Lu

Shipei Lu

Liyi He and Yangsheng Luo

L Ailene and Dan MacDougall

Yuze Chu and Houari Mana

Libertina Marra

L Laura and Jeff Mason

L Arnold Massey

Ngoc Nguyen and Joshua Matthews

Karen McCallum-Ryan

MCH Accounting Professional Corporation

L Jefferson Mooney

Olga Morawczynski

L Mirella and John Morra

L Heather Smith-Morton and Barclay

Morton

Jenna and Carl Nagapen

Carmen and Michael Neagoe

New Doors Real Estate & Mentorship Group

Nexus Investments

Pfaff Audi Newmarket

Louisa and Kris Philpott

Doug Pollock ‘64

Prep Academy Tutors

L Jin Ying Wang and Keo Hoa Quach

Sara and Shamus Rask

L The Rathlyn Foundation

RE/MAX Realtron Realty Inc.–

Karin Rotem

L H and E Romkema

L Jessie-May Rowntree

Nataliia Rumiantseva and Borys

Rumiantsev

Sandra and Karl Scherre

L Chris Schneider

Hui Huang and Jun Shao

Grace and Michael Simon

Gerry and Anita Smith Family

Foundation at Toronto Foundation

Yunzhuo Zhou and Xiaojie Song

Veronika Stremovska and Andriy

Stremovskyy

L Lisa and Peter Sturrup

Qiong Su

Xiaokun Su

Serena Sun ‘10

Sha Jiang and Yang Sun

Ying Zhuang and Huang Tang

Melissa and Michael Tavares

TCS Canada

TEC Geological Drilling Inc.

Toombs Team Real Estate Group

L Wendy Jin and Minh Tran

Yuxin Dong and Harry Nghia Tu

Rimma Barinshteyn and Sivan

Tumarkin

L Susanna Turner and Patrick Turner ‘97

L Ronald Veale ‘63

Ronald Veitch ‘69

Ekaterina Romanenko and David Wan

Qiao Yang and Cheng Wang

THE LAMP OF LEARNING, as found in the Pickering College crest, recognizes those who have given for the past five or more consecutive years.

Huizhen Wang

Qiuling Wang and Jiabu Wang

Haoyang Liu and Jie Wang

Ruonan Zhang and Lei Wang

Ying Xuan and Liang Wang

Nan Wang

Xiaokun Li and Shimin Wang

Ying Gao and Tongle Wang

Qian Gong and ZhiWei Wang

L Roger Warren ‘51

L Daniel Weinzweig

Li Yu and Yuanming Weng

Westmac Holdings Inc.

L Stephen Widdrington ‘83

Weiqiang Wu

Jue Mao and Zeming Wu

Qin Zhang and Qing Xiang

Yue Zhang and Yu Xu

Chan Yang

Shuang Sun and Chuanyu Yang

Tung Wa Shuk and Haimo Yang

L Linna Zhang and Weitao Yao

Hong Mei Zheng and Ying Wen Ye

Yen Family Foundation

Samuel Yen ‘89

L Lisa and Jason Yip

Jie Liu and Kin Tim Yip

Binjing Yin and Kai Yu

Rongyi Zheng and Mingqi Yu

Zhaohui Liu and Chao Zeng

Li Liu and Fanyi Zeng

Peggy Pan and Qingyu Zeng

L Alex Zetzl ‘05

L Joan and Bert Zetzl

Evita Cao and Hai Zhang

Liyun Liu and Hao Zhang

L Jiezhi Wu and Lei Zhang

Li Zhang

Cui Yi Liang and Shu Tao Zhang

Kai Wang and Wei Zhang

Jie Lian and Xiao Zhang

Ariana Song and Yi Zhang

L Yunfei He and Yong Zhang

Qianfeng Chen and Yunxin Zhang

Dan Wei and Yanpan Zhao

Meng Qu and You Liang Zhao

May Zhong and Bill Zheng

Nan Liu and Jianyong Zheng

Jian Li Fan and Jubin Zhou

L Yan Sun and Mengli Zhou

Fan Yang and Pengkun Zhou

Ling Yang and Wei Zhou

Ning Jin and Zhi Zhou

Ran Jin and Chunheng Zhu

Yan Ding and Jiang Zhu

Jierui Lu and Tony Zhu

Zihui Weng and Yihua Zhu

Duygu and Aytac Zilek

PARENT SUPPORT

Natalie and Eric Akbar

L Margaux Peck and Joshua Armstrong

Anurag Arun

Ming Zhao and Fan Bai

Qiongyin Huang and Wei Bai

Xueru Bao

L Laura Barclay

Claudine and Cheddi Beckford

L Nicole and Graham Birt

Louise and Alan Bougourd

Danielle and Michael Brown

L Jiangliu Feng and Yu Zhen Cao

Tina Robert and Richard Cazeau

Lillian and Anthony Cericola

Xi Cao and Mao Zhi Chan

Jessie Zhao and Kevin Chen

L Licong Pan and Lixun Chen

Eva Zhou and Ryan Chen

Jing Li and Lei Cheng

Jiwoo Kim and Woosoon Choi

Jodie-Lynn Waddilove and Joshua Corbiere

L Naomi and Jamie Côté

Marnee and Michael Da Ponte

Michelle and Richard De Ridder

Jing Pan and Ning Di

Jing Dou and Dan Ding

L Mingjuan Wang and Mingjian Ding

Jessica Yim and Haoyu Dong

Naixin Zhang and Shaochen Du

L Jessica and Jeff Ellis

Yue Zhang and Yong Feng

Kait and Andrew Finlay

L Zoe Roberts and David Fiscaletti

Nicole Foch ‘13 and Kyle Foch ‘13

Carolyn Chow and Dennis Fong

Yuhua Wang and William Fong

L Lingling Li and Jianning Fu

Gavin Gao

Xue Sun and Jun Gao

Fei Wu and Xiang Gao

Jiani Qian and Yabin Ge

Kyle Krause and Mirko Gojic

Heather Gray

Tao Tao and Rui Guo

Yue Liu and Zhigang Guo

Xin Chen and William Wenlei Hall

Tanya Hammell

Hualing Shirley Wen and Dong Han

L Ling Zhou and Gangfeng He

Li Zeng and Yi He

Felica Anca Heidarpour Meymeh and Reza

Heidarpour Meymeh

L Jason Herod

Stacey Lewis and Wayne Hinrichs

L Lanjun Li and Tao Hu

Vienna Li and Bo Huang

L Eva Huang

Zhenzhen Guo and Guanyu Huang

Fang Liu and Haiyu Huang

L Xiaozhen Ruan and Haofu Huang

Ling Zi Bai and Ping Huang

L Julia and Trevor Hunt

L Tian Li and Weizhong Ji

L Ye Zhang and Zi Xuan Jia

Lufei Jia and Nan Jiang

Xiaoyu Cui and Yong Jiang

Yi Fei Chen and Max Jin

Monisha and Steve Johnstone

Cathy Gui and Anping Ju

Xiaona Yang and Yan Kan

Robin Macmillan and Andrew Keffer

Pooneh Khataei and Kian Khatami

Candy Kitchell and Osman Kitchell ‘85

Liwei Si and Zhi Kui

Mila and Oleksandr Kurkin

Xi Zhang and Ming Lei

Ida and Anthony Leonetti

Xiaoyue Huang and Dong Li

Ying Dong and Hongjie Li

Jingwen Tang and Jiaolong Li

Wei Jiang and Leon Li

Mengdi An and Rui Li

Yu Jin and Ruibin Li

Jennifer Liu and Steven Li

Kelly Yu and Tom Li

Yan Li and Xiaofeng Li

Hui Zhou and Yao Li

Jia Nie and Zhong Li

Ann Xu and Yanbin Liang

Amy Ding and Calvin Lin

Yu Hsuan Lu and Chi Iuan Lin

Qi Fan Liu and Chu Chun Lin

Yangjue Qiu and Haijin Lin

Anyi Zeng and Nan Lin

Fan Shi and Zhao Lin

Chaoyue Qi and Hang Liu

Lu Yang and Jiepeng Liu

Yang Xuan and Lei Liu

L Qin Chen and Nian Liu

L Qiqi Deng and Victor Liu ‘95

Bin (Rebecca) Lu and Xiaodong (Mick) Liu

Huimin Mu and Yang Liu

Yue Chen and Zhixin Liu

Sha Li and Dong Lou

Anitka Rolczewski-Louli and Michael Louli

Yan Zhang and Kai Lu

Siqi Wang and Chengxin Luo

Hui Li and Lei Luo

Liyi He and Yangsheng Luo

Yuze Chu and Houari Mana

ibertina Marra

Takae and Yoshitaka Matsumoto

L Erin and Blair Matthews

Ngoc Nguyen and Joshua Matthews

Carlie and Brian Merkley

L Renee and Rob Merrick

Olga Morawczynski

L Heather Smith-Morton and Barclay Morton

Jenna and Carl Nagapen

Carmen and Michael Neagoe

Beejal and Ritesh Patel

Louisa and Kris Philpott

Vanessa and Thyson Poehlmann

L Jin Ying Wang and Keo Hoa Quach

Sara and Shamus Rask

Nicole and Joe Risk

Krystie and Matthew Robinson-Vincent

L H and E Romkema

Nataliia Rumiantseva and Borys Rumiantsev

Sandra and Karl Scherre

Ayumi and Hideyasu Sekino

Hui Huang and Jun Shao

Yinyin Zhang and De Shen

Grace and Michael Simon

Yunzhuo Zhou and Xiaojie Song

Beatrice Seguin and Christiaan Stevens

Veronika Stremovska and Andriy Stremovskyy

Qiong Su

Xiaokun Su

Sha Jiang and Yang Sun

Yuhan Luo and Nim Cho Tam

Ying Zhuang and Huang Tang

Melissa and Michael Tavares

Amanda and Phillip Thompson

L Wendy Jin and Minh Tran

Yuxin Dong and Harry Nghia Tu

Phoebe Chow and Billy Tung

Rimma Barinshteyn and Sivan Turmarkin

L Susanna Turner and Patrick Turner ‘97

Ekaterina Romanenko and David Wan

Qiao Yang and Cheng Wang

Huizhen Wang

Qiuling Wang and Jiabu Wang

Haoyang Liu and Jie Wang

Ruonan Zhang and Lei Wang

Ying Xuan and Liang Wang

Nan Wang

Xiaokun Li and Shimin Wang

Ying Gao and Tongle Wang

Li Chen and Weimin Wang

Fang Chen and Xiaowei Wang

Qian Gong and ZhiWei Wang

Olga Raskovalova and William Waugh

Li Yu and Yuanming Weng

Weiqiang Wu

Jue Mao and Zeming Wu

Zhonghua Wu

Yan Shen and Wei Xia

Yanli Wang and Michael Xiang

Qin Zhang and Qing Xiang

Yihan Song and Sean Xiao

Yue Zhang and Yu Xu

Yi Wang and Tao Xue

Chan Yang

Shuang Sun and Chuanyu Yang

Tung Wa Shuk and Haimo Yang

L Linna Zhang and Weitao Yao

Hong Mei Zheng and Ying Wen Ye

Qiong Wu and Peng Yin

L Lisa and Jason Yip

Jie Liu and Kin Tim Yip

Man Ha Cheung and Hau Ming Yiu

Connie and Ryan Youell

Binjing Yin and Kai Yu

Rongyi Zheng and Mingqi Yu

Zhaohui Liu and Chao Zeng

Li Liu and Fanyi Zeng

Peggy Pan and Qingyu Zeng

Tongtong Xu and Chuang Zhang

Evita Cao and Hai Zhang

Liyun Liu and Hao Zhang

L Jiezhi Wu and Lei Zhang

Li Zhang

Xiaojun Liu and Qiwen Zhang

Cui Yi Liang and Shu Tao Zhang

Kai Wang and Wei Zhang

Jie Lian and Xiao Zhang

Ariana Song and Yi Zhang

L Yunfei He and Yong Zhang

Qianfeng Chen and Yunxin Zhang

Xiaolan Hu and Zhongping Zhang

Dan Wei and Yanpan Zhao

Meng Qu and You Liang Zhao

May Zhong and Bill Zheng

Nan Liu and Jianyong Zheng

Jian Li Fan and Jubin Zhou

L Yan Sun and Mengli Zhou

Fan Yang and Pengkun Zhou

Ling Yang and Wei Zhou

Ning Jin and Zhi Zhou

Ran Jin and Chunheng Zhu

Yan Ding and Jiang Zhu

Jierui Lu and Tony Zhu

Zihui Weng and Yihua Zhu

Duygu and Aytac Zilek

ALUMNI SUPPORT

1950s

L Charles Beer ‘59

James Murray ‘57

L Roger Warren ‘51

1960s

Jock Bates ‘61

James Brown ‘69

L Robert Bryant ‘60

L Rolph Davis ‘60

Greg Dopulos ‘68

L David Douglas ‘60

Kenneth Greason ‘64

Doug Pollock ‘64

Robert Rayner ‘62

L Robert Russel ‘67

L Herschell Sax ‘64

Kevin Sloan ‘68

L Ronald Veale ‘63

Ronald Veitch ‘69

Anonymous (1)

1970s

L Christopher Rogers ‘70

Adam Wetstein ‘73

1980s

L Stephen Barratt ‘86

Tom Everson ‘84

L Jeffrey Forde ‘82

Osman Kitchell ‘85

Winston Lau ‘83

L Stephen Widdrington ‘83

1990s

L Francis Fung ‘97

Victor Liu ‘95

L Raymond Ng ‘99

L Patrick Turner ‘97

L Ryan Turner ‘99

Samuel Yen ‘89

2000s

L Talia Black ‘07

L Amanda Hamm ‘05

Amy MacKenzie ‘05

Stephen Muzyka ‘03

L Gareth Sturrup ‘09

L Alex Zetzl ‘05

STAFF AND FACULTY SUPPORT

Heather Amadori

L Joshua Armstrong

Alex Au Yong

L Lotem Baram

L Elaine Barratt

L Stephen Barratt ‘86

Nicole Bernadowitsch

L Graham Birt

L Nicole Birt

L Ethan Bishop

Kim Browner

Cameron Campbell

Cory Chan

L Gordon Chiu

L Julie Clement

L Chris Collingham

L Steve Cope

L Naomi Côté

David Czechowski

L Sarah Demarco

L John Dew

L Janet Downer

Leah Duncan

Jaden Duyn ‘20

Nancy Elliott

L Jessica Ellis

Kait Finlay

L David Fiscaletti

Hayley Fisher

L Jay Fletcher

Isabella Flikkema

Nicole Foch ‘13

L Stephanie Forgie

Genesis Gatchalian

Marlin Gold

L Joanne Golding

Alex Grenier

L Amanda Hamm ‘05

Travis Heping

L Julia Hunt

L Sheila Johnson

L Ian Johnston

Jaide Johnston ‘19

Elizabeth Keith

Emma Kerswill ‘19

Michelle Khanna

L Elaine Kliem

Kyle Krause

L Carrington Kukulewich

L Penny Lawson-Cameron

Steven Lazzaro

Robin Lee

Johanna Liburd

Cinde Lock

Jesse Long

Drew MacDonald

Melinda MacDonald

Rebecca MacDonald

L Jeff Mason

L Laura Mason

L Arnold Massey

L Erin Matthews

L Lisa Maunder

Karen McCallum-Ryan

Heather McDonald

L Carol McKnight

Kumail Meghani

Niki Mehta

L Karen Meisel

L Renee Merrick

Shawna Modeste

Elena Mott

Adam Murphy ‘19

L Nicole Murphy

L Rosanna Naccarata

Jenna Nagapen

Ife Olanusi

L Varathan Pathmanathan

L Laurie Philp

L Leila Picazo

Vanessa Poehlmann

2010s

Kyle Foch ‘13

Nicole Foch ‘13

Walter Kevin Fung ‘10

Jaide Johnston ‘19

Emma Kerswill ‘19

Adam Murphy ‘19

Serena Sun ‘10

2020s

Jaden Duyn ‘20

Lucas Lucchese ‘25

Ethan Robinson-Vincent ‘25

Stuart Sage ‘24

L Helena Pollakova

L John Robertson

L H Romkema

L Jessie-May Rowntree

Elise Saklica-Kaveh

L Chris Schneider

Suman Seth

L Jason Simm

Sheri Simon

L Jason Smith

L Kim Smith

L Heather Smith-Morton

L Gareth Sturrup ‘09

L Heather Suters

Julie Sym-Wilson

L Ricky Tam

Bala Thana

L Dan Thompson

William Waugh

L Ellen Wells

Dave Wright

PAST PARENTS, FORMER STAFF AND FACULTY,

GRANDPARENTS AND FRIENDS

SUPPORT

AREA Foundation

David Badregon

Barclay Herod Family Foundation

Bazil Developments Inc.

The late J.E. (Tim) Benson

Toby Hatch and Joel Berger

L Bianco Family

L The Blenich Family

Mary Lynn Blondy

L Kirsten Nicolson and Brad Boland

Joan Lee and James Brown ‘69

L Robert and Jennifer Bryant

Cortney Cassidy

Ceran Inc.

ColWell Refrigeration Ltd.

Community Foundation for Kingston & Area

L Susan and David Cooper

The Estate of Richard Crowther ‘47

L Dr. Rolph & Mrs. Joan Davis

L Marc de la Bastide

Andie and Kevin Desforges

L Beth Egan

L The Egan Family Foundation

Karen Elston

L Diane and Beric Farmer

The Farmer Family Foundation

L Kaia and Patrick Farmer Foundation Counts Philanthropic Foundation

OTHER SUPPORT

Joyce and Robert Fraser

Sophy and Michael Froats

FX International

Karen Whetstone and Richard Geurts

Karen Johnston and Bob Hakeem

The Estate of John MacLaren Houghton ‘47

Joanne and Leo Houle

Jack Huang ‘30

Claudine and Roger Hubbard

L Weijia Sun and Ming Huo

L Beverly Jackson

Yue Wang and Zhongjie Jiang

Michael Kelly

Nancy and Lloyd Kerswill

Bridget Kilgallon and Jason Foulds

L Khanna Family Foundation

Lisa Simmonds-Kim and Thomas Kim

Kipling Group

Hyang Le

Mark Lee

Shipei Lu

L Jane Lynes

L Ailene and Dan MacDougall

Carol and David McDougall

L Cathy and John McGill

MCH Accounting Professional Corporation

Andrea McMullen

L The Rathlyn Foundation

Metro Richelieu Inc.

L Shirley Moffett

L Jefferson Mooney

L Mirella and John Morra

Nexus Investments

Lin Zhao and Masahiro Ohe

Doug Pollock ‘64

Meghan and Peter Seybold

Corianne and Anthony Simpson

T. Ann Smiley

Gerry and Anita Smith Family Foundation at

Toronto Foundation

Norman Smith

Kimberley and Charles Stokes

L Lisa and Peter Sturrup

Jason Szczur

TEC Geological Drilling Inc.

Utillife Trading Ltd.

Cynthia Veale

L Daniel Weinzweig

Westmac Holdings Inc.

Yen Family Foundation

Nicole Cortese and Paul Yue

Jane Zavitz

L Joan and Bert Zetzl

GIFTS IN KIND

L Christina and Sal Bianco

Richard Blackstock ‘63

Farm Boy Company Inc.

L Julia and Trevor Hunt

Sylvia Lee

John Lockyer

The Estate of Ed Richardson ‘45

LAMPLIGHTERS

Giving for tomorrow, today.

The school’s symbol is a lamp, the lamp of learning that our caring community of Lamplighters keep well lit by gifting Pickering College through their wills, estates, and life insurance.

Committing to a planned gift ensures that your legacy lives on at Pickering College for generations to come.

PC LAMPLIGHTERS

Ralph Barnes ’67

L Charles Beer ’59

Kim Bilous

The late Charles Boyd

L Jeffrey Forde ’82

The late Jack Houghton ’47

John Lockyer

The late Ed Richardson ’45

L Robert Russel ’67

Adam Shully ’78

Wolf Smith-Butz ’73

Ronald Veitch ’69

L Daniel Weinzweig

Interested in learning more or joining the Lamplighters? Or have you already included Pickering College in your estate plans?

Please contact Julie Sym-Wilson at 905-895-1120 ext. 254 or by email at jsym-wilson@pickeringcollege.on.ca.

EVENT SPONSORS, PARTNERS & SUPPORTERS

PCA HOLIDAY HOME TOUR

Friday November 22 and Saturday November 23, 2024

Presenting Sponsors:

HBNG Holborn Group of Companies

Pfaff Audi Newmarket

Home Sponsors:

CW Marine & Powersports

Hartley Built Prep Academy Tutors

Realtor Home Sponsors:

Leslie Whicher Personal Real Estate

New Doors Real Estate & Mentorship Group/ Simon Mortgages, Insurance with Alyssa

RE/MAX Realtron Realty Inc. - Karin Rotem Toombs Team Real Estate Group

Interior Designers/Decorators:

ADM Design Incorporated

Amanda Shields Interiors

Ivish Interiors

Natalie Rose Design Pickering College Association Parents

Floral Designers:

ADM Design Incorporated

Natalie Rose Design

Petite Blume

Sweet Stems Floral Designs

Homes:

Jennifer Cuypers

David LeClaire

Lexi Sifton

Amanda Shields

Charlotte Wang

Gift in Kind Sponsors:

Aramark Canada Ltd.

Arcadia Academy of Music

La Belle Cuisine

Natalie Rose Design

Pablo Japanese Bakery

Peggy Pan, CIBC Pickering College Musicians

RISE Choir (Donais Studios)

Slabtown Cider Co.

Advertising Partners:

Markham Metals

The Royal Wood Shop

MIDNIGHT IN MONTE CARLO GALA

Saturday May 3, 2025

Presenting Sponsor:

HBNG Holborn Group of Companies

Diamond Sponsors:

TCS Canada

L The Egan Family Foundation, Beth Egan

Spirits Sponsor:

Diamond Schmitt Architects Incorporated

Faculty Table Sponsor:

L Diane and Beric Farmer

Donors:

Natalie and Eric Akbar

Anurag Arun

Bazil Developments Inc.

Danielle and Michael Brown

Tina Robert and Richard Cazeau

L Julie Clement

Marnee and Michael Da Ponte

L Sarah Demarco

Jing Dou and Dan Ding

L Mingjuan Wang and Mingjian Ding

L Beth Egan

L The Egan Family Foundation

L Diane and Beric Farmer

Yuhua Wang and William Fong

Jiani Qian and Yabin Ge

Kyle Krause and Mirko Gojic

L Ling Zhou and Gangfeng He

Li Zeng and Yi He

L Eva Huang

Claudine and Roger Hubbard

L Julia and Trevor Hunt

L Tian Li and Weizhong Ji

Yi Fei Chen and Max Jin

Michael Kelly

Kipling Group

Cinde Lock and Mark Lee

Ida and Anthony Leonetti

Yu Jin and Ruibin Li

Jennifer Liu and Steven Li

Kelly Yu and Tom Li

Yan Li and Xiaofeng Li

Ann Xu and Yanbin Liang

Amy Ding and Calvin Lin

Yu Hsuan Lu and Chi Iuan Lin

Karen McCallum-Ryan

MCH Accounting Professional Corporation

Andrea McMullen

Niki Mehta

L H and E Romkema

L Jessie-May Rowntree

L Chris Schneider

Meghan and Peter Seybold

Beatrice Seguin and Christiaan Stevens

Rimma Barinshteyn and Sivan Tumarkin

Li Liu and Fanyi Zeng

Cui Yi Liang and Shu Tao Zhang

Jian Li Fan and Jubin Zhou

Gift in Kind Donors:

Janet McGhee and Hani Abdelgalil

Air Riderz Adventure Park - Aurora

Natalie and Eric Akbar

Angus Glen Golf Club

L Margaux Peck and Joshua Armstrong

BIMM Management Inc.

Blood Sweat Train

Tina Robert and Richard Cazeau

L Chris Collingham

Costco Newmarket

Sylvia Da Silva

Jing Dou and Dan Ding

L Janet Downer

Yuhua Wang and William Fong

L Stephanie Forgie

FYi Doctors

Georgia Hardy Tours

Li Zeng and Yi He

Hempen Jewellers

Hub Climbing

L Julia and Trevor Hunt

L Tian Li and Weizhong Ji

Lufei Jia and Nan Jiang Joyride 150

Elizabeth Keith

Kiehl’s Since 1851

L Penny Lawson-Cameron

Lexus of Barrie

Jennifer Liu and Steven Li

Ann Xu and Yanbin Liang

Anitka Rolczewski-Louli and Michael Louli

L Laura Mason

L Arnold Massey

L Erin Matthews

Karen McCallum-Ryan

Heather McDonald

L Carol McKnight

Niki Mehta

L Karen Meisel

L Renee Merrick

Jenna and Carl Nagapen

Nurse Natalie Medical Aesthetics

Nu Stachio Nut Shoppe

Of Rock and Chalk

Olive Oil Co.

L Varathan Pathmanathan Pfaff Audi Newmarket

L Laurie Philp

Prep Academy Tutors

Reach Indoor Climbing

L H and E Romkema

L Jessie-May Rowntree

Signature Cosmetic Clinic

L Kim Smith

L Heather Smith-Morton

Treetop Trekking Stouffville

Emily van Nostrand

Vince’s Market - Newmarket

Saveria Volpe

Amy Wang

L Ellen Wells

Deborah and Robert Wilcock

CHARLES F. BOYD

INVITATIONAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

Monday June 23, 2025

Presenting Sponsor: HBNG Holborn Group of Companies

Diamond Sponsor: SE Telecom TCS Canada

Gold Sponsors:

L Bianco Family

Control Fire Systems Inc.

L Diane and Beric Farmer

Silver Sponsors: Roman Building Materials Ltd.

Bronze Sponsors:

Crate Designs Furniture

Heal-3

Melcour Security Solutions

Westpoint Sport

Hole Sponsors:

L Advertek Graphic Solutions

BMO Nesbitt Burns - Sean Fang

Gillespie, Adams & Associates

Ireland Realty Group

I.T. Rangers Ltd.

Roadside Paving Ltd.

Gift in Kind Donors:

Ampot Portable Toilets

Cassidy Event Management

Costco Newmarket

Emerald Hills Golf Club

Fleets Coffee

Formula Brands Inc.

L Tian Li and Weizhong Ji

Jugo Juice, Stonehaven Plaza

Robin Macmillan and Andrew Keffer

Lenovo

Hui Li and Leo Luo

Pheasant Run Golf Club

Red Thread Brewing Co.

Stretch Lab Studio - Aurora

The Postmark Hotel

Tracer Golf

Deborah and Robert Wilcock

Congratulations to Pickering College faculty member Johanna Liburd and John Armstrong, Vice President of telMAX Inc., who recently earned the Town of Newmarket’s Community Innovator Award for transforming local telecommunications boxes into vibrant public art.

When residents expressed concern about the appearance of the boxes, Pickering College and telMAX partnered to turn the challenge into a meaningful project for students and for the community. Students designed artwork reflecting Newmarket’s character, natural beauty, and community spirit. telMAX funded the printing and installation, turning previously vandalized boxes into colourful neighbourhood landmarks.

UPCOMING EVENTS

MAY – OCTOBER 2026

Wednesday, May 13 9:00 a.m. 6:00 p.m. My Key Idea (Grade 5) Changemakers Event

Friday, May 22 All day Sports Day

Monday, May 25 3:30 p.m. Fun Fair

Wednesday, May 27 9:45 a.m. Full School Closing Meeting

Monday, June 8 9:00 a.m.Grade 5 Celebration

Tuesday, June 9 9:00 a.m. 4:00 p.m. Kindergrad Grade 8 Closing Ceremony

Thursday, June 117:00 p.m. Grad Celebration

Friday, June 12 9:00 a.m. Commencement

Monday, June 15All daySummer Day Camps begin

Monday, June 22 All day Charles F. Boyd Invitational Golf Tournament

Sunday, June 28All dayESL Summer Camp Session 1 begins

Sunday, July 26All dayESL Summer Camp Session 2 begins

Tuesday, September 88:30 a.m.First Day of School

Thursday, September 10 9:45 a.m.Opening Meeting (Full School)

Saturday, October 2410:00 a.m.Open House (JK to Grade 12)

VOLUME 46 ISSUE T WO

PUBLISHER

JESSIE-MAY ROWNTREE

Assistant Head of School, Advancement

MANAGING EDITOR

NAOMI CÔTÉ

Senior Communications Manager

CONTRIBUTORS

OVEE AU-YEUNG

TEGAN BUCKINGHAM

ALISON LARABIE CHASE

ZOE HIPEL

DR. CINDE LOCK, Head of School

KAREN MEISEL

JENNA NAGAPEN

KRYSTIE ROBINSON-VINCENT

JULIE SYM-WILSON

GRAPHIC DESIGN

VANI ROUSE

TO SHARE YOUR COMMENTS, IDEAS OR FOR ADVERTISING RATES AND INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT

JESSIE-MAY ROWNTREE

(905)895-1700 EXT. 234 jrowntree@pickeringcollege.on.ca

PICKERING COLLEGE

16945 BAYVIEW AVENUE NEWMARKET, ONTARIO CANADA L3Y 4X2

TEL: (905) 895-1700 www.pickeringcollege.on.ca

THE PILLARS

IS PUBLISHED BY THE ADVANCEMENT OFFICE FOR ALUMNI, PARENTS, STUDENT S, STAFF AND FRIENDS OF PICKERING COLLEGE.

For Students Who Want More

Senior School at Pickering College nurtures curiosity, collaboration, and creativity, helping students uncover their passions and make a difference. Learning goes beyond the classroom and every student is empowered to make an impact.

Now accepting day and boarding applications for September 2027.