The Shield - Winter 2014

THE

A MAGAZINE FOR THE ROYAL ST. GEORGE’S COLLEGE COMMUNITY

WINTER 2014

SHIELD Telling a Story Jack Schwartz, Class of 2014, is making his mark Entrepreneurs and the Georgian Bond The Power of a Good Debate The Faces that Welcome You Golden Jubilee — Almost Here

Together we make a difference.

Whether your association with RSGC is as a current parent, an alumnus, a parent of an alumnus, a grandparent, a member of the faculty and staff, or a friend, we can all agree that RSGC is a truly special place. More than just a school, RSGC is a community in which everyone strives to give the students opportunities to thrive, take risks, grow and succeed.

At RSGC, all of our boys are known and loved.

Please consider a gift in support of Scholarships and Bursaries, Headmaster’s Initiatives or Campus Redevelopment.

Annual Giving 2013-14 To make a donation or for more information, visit rsgc.on.ca or contact Fiona Cooper at fcooper@rsgc.on.ca or 416.533.9481 ext. 299.

Contents

6

8

The Shield Winter 2014 Email: shield@rsgc.on.ca General Inquiries: 416.533.9481 Alumni Inquiries: 416.516.5202 Headmaster: Stephen Beatty ’86 Editor: Laurie Mandarino Assistant Editor: Fiona Cooper Copy Editor: Dave Mitchell Designer: Jonathan Cresswell-Jones Photography: Tom Stevens, Tim Hutton, Laurie Mandarino Editorial Committee: Stephen Beatty ’86, Gail Graham, Maria Jordan, David Lee, Laurie Mandarino, Colin Watson

28

RSGC Board of Directors

FEATURES

Officers

18 Alumni Spotlight BY LAURIE MANDARINO Renowned oral and maxillofacial surgeon Cameron Clokie ’81 is making international headlines with his groundbreaking research.

20 Student Spotlight BY LAURIE MANDARINO Jack Schwartz, Class of 2014, has plans to leave his mark at the College.

22 Parent Spotlight BY LAURIE MANDARINO The Firstbrook Family: Three generations of Georgian tradition.

24 Georgian Connections BY ANDREW HEPBURN ’02 Of the many Georgian alumni in the business world, several have involved other Old Boys in their ventures.

28 The Strength of an Argument BY KATHY FLAXMAN The popularity of debating at RSGC. 31 The GSA and the Georgian Legacy: “We’re All Brothers”

BY SUMNER AND LANG

The Gay-Straight Alliance has become a vibrant part of school culture.

DEPARTMENTS 5 Message from the RSGCAA 6 Culture: A Bridge to Success 8 Culture: The Faces that Welcome You 10 Tribute: Giles Bryant 12 Events: 2014 is RSGC’s Golden Jubilee Year

Chair: Paul Clark ’85 Treasurer, Audit and Finance Committee Chair: Cathy Bateman Headmaster: Stephen Beatty ’86 Chief Financial Officer, Board Secretary: Jane Nyman Board Members Michael Barker, Facilities Committee Chair Anthony Caldwell, Nominating and Governance Committee Chair James Crossland, Communications Committee Chair Sandy Gibson ’01, Alumni Representative Ruth Woods Past Chair Dorothy Byers Bruce Chapple ’87 Ryan Cookson ’03 Peter Furnish Molly Johnson Jennifer Keenan Adrian C. Lang Bruce MacLaren Caroline Newall Jesse Parker ’01, Clergy The Shield is the official magazine of Royal St. George’s College. Serving RSGC’s alumni and community, it strives to engage, inform and connect all audiences.

17 Alumni Connections 34 Our Changing Lives 36 Retrospective: New jobs and interesting tidbits on RSGC alumni

FPO

The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College 3

LETTER FROM THE HEADMASTER

What Lies Ahead?

D

ear Fellow Georgians, I am writing this on a bitterly cold day in January. We have just rung in 2014 and it’s human nature to consider both the year just ended and the year just begun. When I reflect on this as Headmaster of the College, to paraphrase Robert Frost, I think we have much to look back on with pride and much to look forward to with hope.

As members of the RSGC community, we can look back with pride on the transformation of our campus over the past two years.

This project, which was fully completed early in 2013, has created a true urban gem and has provided for our boys places to learn, play, create and grow. The project was made possible by the success of the Honouring Our Past | Building Our Future campaign, which was generously supported by donors representing all of our constituent groups. On behalf of the students, now and future, my thanks.

As we sit in the middle of the current school year, I can report that the College is thriving. Our enrolment is at full capacity, with waiting lists in most grades. Our academic program continues to challenge and inspire the boys with a broad range of academic offerings, and an engaged and committed faculty and staff. Our arts, athletics and community outreach programs offer the boys amazing opportunities to broaden their horizons and learn more about themselves. Our reputation as one of the finest schools in the country is well-earned.

As you will see in this issue of The Shield, we have much to look forward to with hope. This past September, our Board of Governors unanimously ratified

a five-year strategic plan for the College. This plan is built on a primary goal to prepare our boys to thrive and lead in a rapidly changing world. Supporting this primary goal is our enabling goal of fostering innovation and excellence by engaging our community and partners. We need to ensure that an RSGC education is creating original thinkers, creators, problem solvers and builders possessing strong moral character, confidence and resilience. Our strength at RSGC has always been our small size and our understanding that the best learning happens in authentic relationships. The strategic plan is an exciting roadmap that will continue to keep us at the front end of the evolution of education. A summary of the strategic plan is included in this edition of The Shield.

Also ahead is the celebration of the Golden Jubilee of the College. Jack Wright, John Bradley and the other Founders of the College welcomed the first students to 120 Howland on September 7, 1964. A full year of 50th birthday celebrations will begin in September 2014, including a homecoming weekend and a Gala. The 2014/15 school year will be a time to celebrate.

I hope you enjoy this issue of The Shield. It is created from the spirit of looking back and looking forward. Your input is always welcome.

Here’s to great things ahead!

Stephen Beatty ’86 Headmaster

4 The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College

A Note from the Editor

W

elcome to the first issue of The Shield for 2014.

It’s my fourth issue since I started working at the College and it’s still one of the favourite parts of my job. So much so that I agreed to continue putting the magazine together while at home on maternity leave with my new baby. Kayla Mandarino is an absolute joy and quite the presence at RSGC! She has been with me to meetings, interviews for Shield articles and just to visit.

Mr. Beatty is smitten, as are “the faces that welcome you” (see page 8). But quite possibly the most smitten are the boys in Mr. Robinson’s Grade 6 class, who have been spending an hour each month with the honorary Georgian! Kayla is the Roots of Empathy baby and the boys are watching her development throughout the year, helping to reduce levels of aggression and increase empathy. It’s an important program, enjoyable for the boys, for Kayla and for me. Between that and this magazine, I’m still as much a part of the Georgian community as ever. And it’s my pleasure. Enjoy the read.

Laurie Mandarino Editor

lmandarino@rsgc.on.ca

MESSAGE FROM THE RSGCAA PRESIDENT

RSGCAA Executive Committee

Networking Success

Alumni Association President Colin Watson ’94 Vice President and Mentoring & Networking Chair Alex Edmison ’02 Representative to the Board of Governors & Past President Sandy Gibson ’01 Alumni Ball Hockey & Recent Grads BBQ Event Chair Dave McCarthy ’04 Fundraising Committee Chair & Capital Campaign Alumni Co-Chair Jamie Lint ’98 Faculty Rep Drew Blanchette ’01 Capital Campaign Alumni Co-Chair & Member-at-Large Jamie Peters ’90 Members–at-Large Peter Antonoff ’82 Micheal Fountain ’99 Arthur Kennedy ’81 Jay Murray ’79

F

our years ago, the RSGC Alumni Association was presented with a novel idea. Guy Burry ’77 had seen the success of ‘speed mentoring’ programs at York University and suggested RSGC start a similar program. So in September 2008, the Alumni Association Executive launched an initiative that brought in 30 RSGC alumni volunteers to mentor Grade 12 boys for up to five minutes at a time.

The Grade 12’s made their way through the room and each met about ten members of the Alumni Association.

The results were immediately obvious.

The Grade 12 boys were much more aware of the possibilities that existed in a networking community of Old Boys, and their parents were supplying very positive feedback. Grade 12’s then began reaching out to the Alumni Office and to members of the alumni community requesting more advice and more access. After five successful Speed Mentoring evenings, we saw engagement reach its highest level yet

in 2013, with more alumni volunteering to be mentors and more Grade 12 boys connecting with them.

The Class of 2009, the first to be ‘speed mentored’, will be happy to know that this spring, they’ll be invited to attend the third annual Alumni Networking Forum. The Forum is an exclusive event for Old Boys of all ages and is managed to ensure a broad range of jobs are represented. The inaugural forum in 2012 saw 50 Old Boys in attendance and in 2013 over 75.

The success of alumni mentoring programs has not gone unnoticed. The completed 2013 RSGC Strategic Plan twice mentions the value of alumni mentoring and networking programs, and further pushes the Alumni Association to broaden the scope of these programs. The goal a few years from now is to “engage alumni and parents to support community-based learning opportunities for the boys, as well as other learning and mentoring programs”. The Alumni Association is

working on a Strategic Plan of our own to make sure this happens.

We know RSGC Old Boys like to give back. The broad success of the Capital Campaign and the growth of the Alumni Scholarship Fund prove it. In the next few years, RSGC alumni should expect to hear more from the school asking about giving back through mentoring. I’m confident the message will be well received.

Colin Watson RSGCAA President

The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College 5

CULTURE

A Bridge to Success

BY LAURIE MANDARINO

F

rom their graduation ceremony in the Chapel at the end of Grade 12, the common path for our graduates is one summer to enjoy before heading off to university and its responsibilities, fun and new experiences.

But for some, postgraduation is a special time to expand horizons in a year-long learning experience before the next step in education. The gap or bridge year is growing in popularity in Canada, catching up to the United Kingdom and Australia, where it has been commonplace for years.

“Students often use the year for self-discovery and to figure out what they want to do,” said Emma Totten, RSGC’s Community Service Coordinator. “If they’re working or volunteering, it’s usually in fields in which they think they may want to work.

I think it helps to shape what direction they take.”

Derek Woods ’12 chose to take a gap year, spending the first few months at Neuchâtel Junior College in Neuchâtel, Switzerland, before travelling and working on three different continents.

“There was so much I wanted to do before I had to commit to school again, so Neuchâtel was the perfect balance,” said Derek, who – despite already graduating from RSGC – decided to take some courses at the Swiss

school. “It kept me focused because I was still in school, but I got to travel on my own or with school almost every other weekend.”

Knowing where his weaknesses were in the classroom, Derek decided to focus on developing his writing skills.

The extra time in school also allowed him to make a decision on which university he would attend after deferring acceptances to St. Andrew’s in Scotland and the University of Miami.

“After Neuchâtel, I knew I didn’t want to be in North America anymore,” said Derek, who is now in his first year at St. Andrew’s, studying Management with a minor in Economics and Math. “But I always plan to come back to Toronto – it’s my home.”

After his semester at school in Switzerland, Derek met up with two fellow Georgian alumni – Wyllie Malcolm ’12 and George Graham ’12 – in Australia, where the trio backpacked.

Then Derek went to Hong Kong on his own, working on the trading floor of the CIBC for one month. After that, he headed to Rwanda where he helped entrepreneurs set up businesses.

RSGC typically sees about five to 10 boys each year look into taking a bridge year. In fact, as part of the Strategic Plan, the College is looking at creating a formal bridge year program for students

6 The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College

James and Dave with Gage Love.

Derek and George backpacked in Australia with another alumnus, Wyllie Malcolm.

interested in gaining travel and work experience before heading to university.

“The reasons for a gap year are varied,” said Emma.

“It’s a time for self-discovery so they can figure out what to do next. Some of our boys pursue further academic study or work for part of the year.

However, for most, it’s less about earning money and more about growing, learning and volunteering.”

And Canadian universities are now showing more interest in students who have had these global experiences.

James Clarkson ’94 said it was likely his gap year experience

in 1994-1995 that got him into Western University’s Ivey Business School.

“If you come in and have a really high average but all you’ve done is study calculus, they don’t really want you,” said James, who said his average was right at the cut-off.

“However, they really like candidates who have experienced a bit of the world. I’m 99 per cent positive that that’s how I got into the program.”

James and fellow graduate Dave Sterin ’94 did a more structured gap program, going on an exchange to England organized through a company.

“We thought we’d be

Our Man in Cambridge George Graham ’12 wanted to gain work experience in an area relevant to his chosen degree subject to make sure he made the right choice, so a gap year between school and university made perfect sense. It was also an opportunity to explore the world before committing to further years of studying. He deferred acceptance to McGill for Mechanical Engineering and took the year to work and travel.

He spent the first half of the year working in a Stem Cell Research Lab at the University of Toronto. He worked with PhD students involved in

Just one of Derek’s amazing experiences during his gap year!

running all of these outdoor activities on these beautiful grounds in England’s Lake District, but when we got there, they said ‘here’s your dishrag’ !” he laughed.

James, roughing it in the Lake District.

England’s Rydal Hall

They spent nine months cleaning bathrooms, making beds, serving tea and maintaining the gardens at Rydal Hall. For James, it was an eye-opening experience.

“I loved that experience but it made me realize that I never wanted to be in a position where I’m cleaning rooms or washing dishes for the rest of my life,” said James, who is now the Director of Pension Accounting for the Toronto Transit Commission.

“During Frosh Week, everyone else was out partying and I was in the library! It made me very motivated.”

Despite the grunt work, James knows it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

“I’d never be able to have that opportunity now,” he said. “To leave my job, my mortgage, my family, would never be possible. I’m so happy I was able to do it when I did.”

As for Derek, he’s still getting into the groove at university, though he certainly feels more prepared to be living on his own and handling all of the responsibilities that come with it.

“It was the best year of my life,” he said. “I recommend it one hundred per cent.”

various Stem Cell Research projects such as changing mature adult cells back into embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and changing ESCs into certain blood lineages and immune cells.

His work at the lab was an incredible experience, during which he realized where his true engineering interests lay: biochemical applications.

It has also helped him understand what career path he would like to take after university.

So, before heading off for months of travel around Australia and Europe, George decided to apply to Cambridge University in the UK – something he hadn’t had sufficient time to focus on while studying and applying to Canadian universities in Grade 12.

His decision paid off. George is currently in his first year at Cambridge, studying Chemical Engineering via Natural Sciences Biological, a course directly related to the work experience he gained during his gap year.

The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College 7

CULTURE

The Faces that Welcome You The staff and faculty at Royal St. George’s College are a special bunch. No matter what their role, their priority is always the boys. Get to know the women who are often the first to meet your sons.

Get to know the “faces that welcome you”.

Sherry Fitzpatrick, Senior Reception/ Attendance Clerk When did you start at RSGC? I started in March 1998.

Jacquie Baby, Junior School Administrator When did you start at RSGC? I started in 2001.

Where did you work before RSGC? I worked for the Government of Ontario, teaching the payroll system to other government employees.

Where did you work before RSGC? I worked for the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Toronto Raptors prior to coming to RSGC. I ran the concerts and events at the Air Canada Centre and Maple Leaf Gardens.

What’s your favourite part of the job?

Getting to know the boys and their families.

What’s your role at the school?

Administrator of the Junior School (and Head of Band-aid and ice pack distribution).

How does it feel to be a part of the Georgian family?

Like a warm fuzzy hug! Everyone is so friendly and caring.

What’s your favourite part of the job?

The nonchalant visits I get from the boys and the camaraderie of my colleagues.

You’re kind of like a silent hero – doing the work without the limelight. How does that make you feel?

I don’t feel like a hero. I am just happy to know that I have helped make someone’s day a little easier.

How does it feel to be a part of the Georgian family?

I’m proud to be part of this community.

What is your favourite day of the school year?

Halloween. I love to see the spirit that this holiday creates and the amount of enjoyment not only the students have, but also the staff.

What do you have to say about the boys?

The boys are amazing young men. You can see that they really care for each other and are so proud to be part of the Georgian family.

8 The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College

You’re kind of like a silent hero – doing the work without the limelight. How does that make you feel?

Hero is a big word. Helping the boys in good times and bad is a reward in itself.

What is your favourite day of the school year?

I have a few: the first day of school each September, Halloween and Georgians Have Talent show days.

What do you have to say about the boys?

I love the boys.

Dianne Ryan, Assistant to the Headmaster

Toni Nosworthy, Admissions Associate

When did you start at RSGC? I started off working part-time in the Junior School office in September 2006.

Where did you work before RSGC? Prior to working at RSGC, I was at home raising our two girls. Before that, I worked at Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada as a Senior Litigation Law Clerk.

What’s your role at the school?

I am the Headmaster’s Assistant, which, amongst other things, includes scheduling Steve’s appointments, liaising with parents, staff and boys, managing the RSGC calendar of events, booking facilities and liaising with the Board of Governors.

What’s your favourite part of the job?

My favourite part of the job is helping and interacting with the boys. The junior boys have the most interesting, fun stories and the senior boys are such admirable young gentlemen. I will never grow tired of the boys opening doors for me while saying “good morning ma’am” or “thank you ma’am”.

How does it feel to be a part of the Georgian family?

Working at RSGC is a unique privilege. Having been involved with various organizations over the years, I am convinced that there is a very close community culture here that is rare among other schools or workplace environments. The Georgian community at RSGC is an inclusive, caring, supportive and enjoyable community in which to work.

You’re kind of like a silent hero – doing the work without the limelight. How does that make you feel?

Working with the Headmaster, while enjoyable, does have occasions when it is important to ensure that any ‘wrinkles’ are managed professionally and confidentially while keeping the safety and well being of the boys first and foremost. It is important that the students, staff and parents are aware that we are here to assist in any way we can.

What is your favourite day of the school year?

My favourite day of the school year has been the Junior School’s Georgians Have Talent day. While I thoroughly enjoy the performances of all of the boys who participate, the part that makes me smile is when the other boys listen respectfully, and then clap and cheer on their classmates. This year, I was also fortunate enough to participate in the Terry Fox Run and I ran with the boys from the Grade 3 class. I had some pretty engaging conversations while running with those boys so now that event may be one of my favourite days!

What do you have to say about the boys?

Our boys are polite, caring and well-mannered students.

Recently, while I was at a hockey arena with a parent who has girls attending another private school, the parent brought up the subject of RSGC boys. She mentioned that her daughter had attended a house party and remarked, “you can always tell the RSGC boys… they are the ones cleaning up, putting dishes in the dishwasher and generally helping out”. True Georgians.

When did you start at RSGC? I started in August 2003.

Where did you work before RSGC? The Air Canada Centre.

What’s your favourite part of the job?

I love meeting people and helping prospective families feel at ease while going through the whole Admissions process.

How does it feel to be a part of the Georgian family?

Words cannot describe how I feel. It feels like HOME. You’re kind of like a silent hero – doing the work without the limelight. How does that make you feel?

I feel honoured and privileged to work at RSGC. What is your favourite day of the school year?

The first day back to school. I miss the boys over the summer!

What do you have to say about the boys?

They are true gentlemen.

The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College 9

TRIBUTE

Singing Giles Bryant’s Praises

T

here’s just something about Royal St. George’s College that makes it a difficult place to leave. Take former Head of Choral Music, Giles Bryant, for example.

He retired from the school in 1999, yet he’s still a prominent figure in the Chapel and at special services.

“I’ve stayed in very close contact with the College since I left in ’99 and Douglas [ Jamieson, Director of Choral Music] has been very kind to me,” said Giles. “I’m his first call to come and play when it comes to special services and I have continued to be on all of the choir tours as organist since I left. You probably see me as many as 20 times a year at school.”

Which is why it’s no surprise that the decorated musician was recently made an Honorary Old Boy. “I can’t think of anybody who’d be more worthy,” said Douglas Jamieson. “His corporate memory goes a long way.

He has the unique connection of having been close friends and colleagues with several Founders of the College. He has been a stalwart supporter of the College and the choir as well.”

Humbled by the honour, Giles is now approaching the age of 80, yet continues to play the organ at events like the Carol Service and pack his bags for the choir trips. In addition to playing the organ on the tours, he plays the role of surrogate grandfather and banker.

“He holds the kids’ spending money and they all visit him after breakfast,” said Doug. “Then the Bryant Bank opens and he makes a big show of it – he cries a bit when he hands over the bills and the kids get a big kick out of it!”

Of course, the boys love Giles for more than just the pocket money.

“They love him, plain and simple,” said Doug. “He brings a lot of joy into their lives because he’s a natural with interacting with them. He knows what makes them tick and how to make them laugh, which is a really valuable skill to have. He also knows how to get the best out of them in terms of singing.”

Giles loves RSGC too, which makes it easy for him to donate his time and efforts.

“I’m tremendously proud of the choral tradition at St. George’s College and I gave it everything I could when I was here,” said Giles. “What RSGC offers to boys is a marvellously mind-enhancing, enriching experience. Being taught to sing at the level they are is something that will be with them for the rest of their lives. Even if they never sing again, it will be part of the discipline and artistic experience.”

Giles adds the title of RSGC Honorary Old Boy to the honorary degree of Doctor of Sacred Letters he was awarded

by Wycliffe College in 1988 and by Trinity College in 2001.

10 The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College

Royal St. George’s College Honorary Old Boys John Jack L Wright – Class of 1978 Mary Mc Kellar – Class of 1981 John R Latimer – Class of 1996 Evelyn Miller – Class of 2010 Gage Love – Class of 2011 Giles Bryant – Class of 2013

TRIBUTE

Who is Nick Van Herk?

T

he College’s Director of University Counselling, Nick Van Herk has been at RSGC since 1990. He arrived fresh out of grad school at Queen’s, where he earned a Master’s Degree in Economics and a Master of Public Administration.

Nick started out teaching math to Grades 10 through 12, as well as OAC Economics. In his second year, Nick took over the OAC Finite Math course (now Grade 12 Data Management), which he has taught (by his own count) to a total of 43 different sections, including 11 years of summer school both at BSS and RSGC. He also had brief stints as Head of Business Studies and Acting Dean of Students. Nick coached the senior basketball team for many successful years before moving to the Under-16 level. Other coaching duties in the early years included crosscountry and Under-14 badminton.

Ten Things You May Not Know About Nick • He was high school Valedictorian and Outstanding Student in his graduating class • He was very active in Scouting until his late teens, and was one of the first recipients of the Chief Scout’s Award, the highest award that can be earned in Canadian scouting.

He led the Beaver Scouts (ages 5-7) for four years and was nicknamed Rusty.

• As a teenager, he was a champion snowshoe racer.

• He is an avid bird watcher who is known to plan family holidays around bird watching “hot spots”.

• He played a year of professional basketball in England, leading the league in rebounding.

• He spent nine and a half (non-consecutive) years in university and has four university degrees.

• He once worked for the Department of National Defence in Ottawa.

• He has run more Terry Fox “A” Runs than anyone else in the history of the College – 21 and counting – and was one of the original Dirty Dozen in the inaugural year.

• His shoe size is 15 EEEE. • He has never owned a car (or a microwave).

The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College 11

ALUMNI CONNECTIONS

12 The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College

SAVE THE DATE FOR OUR 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS September 8, 2014 Back to School Anniversary Celebration September 26-28, 2014 Golden Jubilee Homecoming Weekend September 26, 2014 Terry Fox Run and House Spirit Games September 27, 2014 Chapel Service Community Reception Old Boys’ Dinner September 28, 2014 Knights’ Fayre (Community Fun Fair) December 17, 2014 Annual Service of Lessons and Carols February 26, 2015 Georgian Parents' Guild Past Presidents High Tea Spring 2015 50th Anniverary Gala

The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College 13

ALUMNI CONNECTIONS

An Evening at the Old Boys’ November 22, 2013

14 The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College

Photos: CanGrad Studios

Dinner

Thanks to Dinner Chair Stanley Janecek (R).

The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College 15

EVENTS

Memorable Moments Alumni Networking September 26, 2013 was the third annual alumni mentoring and networking event. It was a resounding success, with attendance doubling. The young alumni were extremely professional – a testament to the calibre of students graduating from the College. In addition to the professional networking amongst the senior alumni, a number of younger graduates were able to secure internships and full time jobs as a direct result of this event.

Next year we have equally ambitious plans to take this to the next level. We will be hosting the event on May 8, moving our venue to First Canadian Place where we anticipate triple digit attendance. We will also be inviting current and past parents to participate. Formal invitations will be sent out in March.

Knights’ Fayre October 6, 2013 was the second annual Knights’ Fayre on campus. Despite the rain early in the morning, the weather gods were on our side this year and it was a beautiful day. Families came out in droves to enjoy the day. Face-painting, ball hockey, zorb balls and jousting were just a few of the fun activities – never mind the delicious barbecue and yummy treats!

Want to see more pictures? http://gallery.rsgc.on.ca/view_album. php?set_albumName=album119

Terry Fox Run The weather could not have been more perfect for the Terry Fox Run and Spirit Day on September 27, 2013. The entire school gathered in High Park for the run, fun and games, and a delicious BBQ. The day started off with our older boys helping our younger boys get their faces painted in House colours. As for the run, it was a great showing by the boys, some of whom ran their personal best times. From tug of war to frisbee toss, the day was extremely Georgian, full of camaraderie and fun, all while supporting a worthy cause.

Enjoy the day in pictures! http://gallery.rsgc.on.ca/view_album. php?set_albumName=album105

Mark your calendars for these RSGC classics!

The weather gods were on our side this year!

16 The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College

February 11 Hidden Gems Concert April 11 Grad Mother’s Day Tea April 15 RSGC Fashion Show (tentative) May 1 Showcase Concert May 9 Junior School Mother’s Day Tea May 15 Alumni Ball Hockey & Recent Grads BBQ May 22 Grad Class Legacy Dinner May 27 Athletic Awards Ceremony June 11 Graduation

ALUMNI CONNECTIONS

Memories from the First Day as a Georgian The first day at a new school is an experience most of us will never forget. We asked a number of RSGC alumni about their most vivid memories of their first day at 120 Howland.

Here’s what they said.

Learning to tie our ties with then Headmaster, Mr. Latimer. — Jonathan Abraham ’02 Meeting Mr. Latimer for the first time. Rarely has a leader made such an impression on me; the lessons he imparted over the years were invaluable throughout my life. Manners, being a gentleman, listening attentively to people and generally being compassionate to the people and causes around me have helped me tremendously. That day, he brought all the new boys into his office and took some time to greet each one before sending us out to the traditional “new boys BBQ”. Generally speaking, it was always sunny and the ice cream truck would be there ready to serve the long lineup outside. It didn’t take long for the school year to get kicked off and for many friendships to be forged. In short, I have many great souvenirs of my first day! I entered Grade 9 in 1992 and graduated five years later as my House Captain (York). — Jason Taylor ’97 The only thing I remember about my first day is being terrified! I have lots of great memories, but 20-odd years worth of hindsight has made me realize that these memories and experiences in high school aren’t nearly as important as something that happened at an administrative level in 1986, the year I applied to, and was initially rejected by, the school. Coming out of a public middle school, I was a marginal student at best and there wasn’t a lot to recommend me to St. George’s. In my first interview, the school passed on me but my father convinced the school to take another look at me. Several weeks later while I was firing pucks in my driveway, my parents came out and showed me the acceptance letter. The next five years at St. George’s would be punctuated by trials and tribulations for myself and certainly for the teachers and coaches that worked with me. But they stayed with me and in the spring of 1990, I was elected Head Prefect by my peers. What I will always remember is that St. George’s took a chance and gave me a shot. For that I am deeply grateful. — Rory Gilfillan ’91

My best memory of my first day was getting my Canterbury house shirt, learning our cheer and feeling that first sense of the Georgian community. — Morgan Rubes ’03 Wednesday, September 4, 2002 was my first day of Grade 3. It’s funny how I remember the exact date 11 years later! Having just moved from Houston, Texas, three months earlier. I found the adjustment to a new school environment, and to life in Toronto, difficult.

I even considered taking the first flight back to Houston because I felt so homesick and everything was new to me. However, with help from teachers and classmates, I was able to rebound. What I took from this experience was not only a great education, but also the love and respect that I was given over the years. It is the friendships I made that made my years at RSGC the happiest time in my life.

— Anthony Mariano ’12 My first day was way back in 1976 and I was entering Grade 7 in John Birkett’s class. I remember that Father Scott was giving us an orientation about attending chapel three times each week and he said: “We have a greeting here: ‘The Lord be with you.’ And your response is: ‘And with thy spirit’.” He meant, of course, that this was one of the exchanges during chapel services, but I misunderstood completely and thought that if you passed another boy or a teacher going between buildings, one of you needed to say, “The Lord be with you” and the other person needed to respond with, “And with thy spirit”. I told my parents about it that first night and I’m sure they were wondering what kind of kooky, cultish experience they’d signed me up for. Day Two brought waves of relief as nobody greeted me that way during my travels around campus. I spent six wonderful years as a Georgian.

— David Gordon ’83 The Shield Winter 2014

17

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Cameron

BY LAURIE MANDARINO

H

e may not enjoy the name recognition of Brad Pitt or Madonna, but renowned oral and maxillofacial surgeon Cameron Clokie ’81 has made headlines around the world. The RSGC alumnus is known internationally for his groundbreaking research on bone regeneration.

Using a protein called BMP (bone morphogenetic protein), Cameron has performed numerous surgeries to repair jawbones using a unique method that involves stimulating bone growth. He made his first discovery in 1994. Now, he’s one of the top oral and maxillofacial surgeons in the world.

No one is less surprised about Cameron’s success than Chris D’Arcy, who had Cameron in his Grade 10 homeroom class in his very first year of teaching back in 1977.

“He’s world famous now – probably

one of the top guys in the world if you need an operation on your jaw,” said Chris. “He is a specialist’s specialist.”

Born into a dental family, both he and his brother Fraser ’83 followed his father’s footsteps and went into dentistry.

“I wanted to be a facial surgeon and was under the impression that to become a good facial surgeon you’ve got to go into dentistry first,” said Cameron, who did one year of a Bachelor of Science at McGill before getting into the university’s dental program. “I practiced for a few years and then went into the oral and maxillofacial surgery program while doing a Ph.D.” Now, the surgeon, scientist, teacher and entrepreneur has his hands full, serving as the Professor of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the University of Toronto and running his own clinic in Toronto’s Yorkville neighbourhood.

As if that weren’t enough, he also owns a business selling medical devices related to bone healing.

Cameron and Bill Clarke at Bill’s 50th birthday party.

18 The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College

Cameron credits Royal St. George’s College for teaching him one of the key lessons for balancing a busy schedule: teamwork.

“You have to work with good people,” he said.

During his time at the College from 1974-1980, he also picked up a few other values that are still with him all these years later.

“Hard work, an attempt to get along with everybody and the ability to understand that you don’t always win,” said Cameron. “The Manners Maketh Men that Jack Wright espoused in us is also still with me today.”

He also believes that RSGC helped him become “the best version of himself ”.

“That’s a very good motto that applies to me 100 per cent,” said Cameron. “I had a slight learning disability that was recognized early on in Grade 7. By Grade 8, I had become a student beyond my expectations.”

So much so that Chris D’Arcy remembers him as a student like it was yesterday.

Clokie “He was one of the brightest in a very bright grade and he made a real impact on me in terms of his character, his athleticism, his obvious academic ability and his focus,” said Chris. “He was a very together kid, had a really nice sense of humour and an endearing way about him. If he had any flaws, I couldn’t see it. Everyone said he was a leader, destined for really big things.”

With his leadership and well roundedness, it seemed very likely that Cameron would end up as the Head Boy for the Class of 1981.

However, he opted to graduate early from RSGC to head to McGill straight from Grade 12 in 1980.

That opened things up for his best friend, Bill Clarke ’81. At least, that’s how Bill remembers it.

“We often joke about it because Cameron was clearly the class leader for our class and would have been the Head Boy had he not left early,” said Bill, who works as a guidance counsellor at an Ottawa high school after teaching math for 25 years.

“I was like the bridesmaid – a nice second choice! He was clearly the person to have been the leader there.”

Close friends since they met at RSGC in 1976, Bill and Cameron remain in close contact. Of course, Bill has only good things to say about his fellow alum.

“He’s very grounded, has high moral values, is empathetic to people’s concerns and is very willing to take action. He has gone on to do really good things,” said Bill.

“His solid character is something he can be most proud of – that can be attributed to St. George’s.”

Cameron (middle) with his cousin and sons Duncan (right) and Colin.

Cameron, with Duncan, his mother and Chris D’Arcy.

Cameron even credits RSGC for his teaching style – thanks to the influence of his mentors Chris D’Arcy and Gage Love.

“There’s a little bit of both of them in my teaching style,” said Cameron, whose son Duncan graduated from the College in 2012.

“D’Arcy had a way of making it exceptionally clear and breaking it down into steps, while Gage always kept it fun. That’s what I try to do for my students.”

The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College 19

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

JACK SCHWARTZ TELLING A STORY

Jack in Utah.

BY LAURIE MANDARINO

J

ack Schwartz’s mother, Melissa, says that when her son has a strong interest, he pursues it. That admirable trait couldn’t be truer when it comes to the Grade 12 student, who has become the unofficial videographer of Royal St. George’s College.

What began as a hobby has turned into a lifestyle – and hopefully a career. Jack spends copious amounts of his time volunteering for the Toronto International Student Film Festival, running video assemblies and making school videos in his spare time.

“He has done some great promotional videos for school events and he doesn’t get credit for it,” said Dean of Students Dave Fitzpatrick, who has also coached Jack in cross-country for the last four years. “In fact, a lot of the communication that the Prefects do as far as building school spirit goes has been done behind the scenes by Jack Schwartz in support of Communications Prefect Charlie Osler and the rest of the team.”

But for Jack, Class of 2014, the behind-the-scenes work is his pleasure.

“I do it because I love the whole process of it – filming, editing, seeing people’s reactions when they see the finished

20 The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College

Jack with sisters Maisie and Bridget.

product,” he said. “I just love being able to tell a story – to really create something out of nothing. It’s creating something that’s relatable and that can have an impact on your audience, can make them feel or think about something.”

Jack’s love for filmmaking started when he was in Grade 7. His sister had just started taking part in a cooking club at school so he convinced her to film a cooking show for YouTube. They made a dozen videos over four years.

“We had just gotten a new iMac and I was looking for a reason to use iMovie and try it out,” said Jack, who even built a teleprompter so his sister wouldn’t have to memorize a script.

Over the years, he taught himself more about the trade, becoming more and more interested in telling a story through pictures. This past summer, he enrolled in the National High School Institute Cherub program at Northwestern University, where he received five weeks of formal filmmaking education. He took classes in directing, production, screenwriting, animation and editing, and said it was “the best summer ever”.

RSGC has allowed Jack to flourish in the field, supporting his efforts and

giving him the time and opportunity to make his movies.

“RSGC has given Jack a lot of selfconfidence and has helped him discover a lot about his ability and where it fits in with the school,” said Melissa. “When he got to RSGC, he told them he was really interested in film and the teachers gave him a chance to use his skills.”

And much to Jack’s delight, the College has introduced a film course this year. Some more formal training will hopefully help Jack to reach his goal of entering a Radio and Television Film program at an American university after he graduates this spring.

Melissa is 100 per cent supportive of the direction Jack wants to go.

“I know he wants to go into film so I’m hoping with his university selection process, he’ll find a program that will give him some film production experience and a liberal arts education,” she said. “I hope it leads to a lot of good opportunities for him.”

It’s hard to imagine RSGC without Jack walking around with a video camera, but he will not graduate without leaving behind another legacy as well. As the Year-in-Focus Prefect, Jack has chosen something extremely important on which to focus his energy.

Jack and his parents.

“I’ve chosen to focus on making sure everyone feels comfortable in who they are, who others are, their place in the school, and how they’re doing in class and in their social lives,” said Jack. “I know what it’s like to feel unaccepted and I don’t want others to feel like that,” said Jack. “I’ve never felt excluded at RSGC.” A quiet guy, Jack knows how important it is to speak up – for himself and for others. And he’s teaching others to do the same. In his prefect address to the Senior School, he spoke about the importance of saying what needs to be said. Whether it’s training for cross-country or making videos for the school, Jack gets his message out there, leading quietly by example.

“He’s a quiet guy but when he has something to say, he’s not shy to say it,” said Dave Fitzpatrick. “He’s a man of character and integrity.”

With the school year half over, there is still time for Jack to leave more than a large library of videos for RSGC. “The mark Jack will have made is to challenge other students to speak up for themselves, and build the culture and safety for others to do the same,” said Dave. “Jack hasn’t just modelled it – he’s challenging other students to do the same.”

The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College 21

PARENT SPOTLIGHT

GROWING THE FOUNDATION

BY LAURIE MANDARINO

O

ver 40 years ago, Founders’ Hall opened its doors, thanks to an innovative and determined Board. The new facility transformed Royal St. George’s College from nothing more than a church basement and the weathered remains of See House and Ketchum Hall into a full-fledged school with a gymnasium, science labs and purpose-built classrooms.

Headmaster Jack Wright, along with the Founding Board of the College, knew that their enterprise couldn’t last as the facilities stood. So they built what they needed, never losing sight of the College’s principles, which had nothing to do with facilities and everything to do with manners and character.

Ron Firstbrook was a member of that board from 1968-1972, helping to ensure that RSGC remained close to the former Cathedral of St. Alban.

“There were challenges in the early days, but in the building of any organization, things happen,” said Ron. “Yet despite those challenges, St. George’s has managed to get on – and stay on – the proper road.”

As an insurance broker with a keen business sense, Ron was responsible for, among other things, doing

L to R: John, Andrew and Ron Firstbrook

the accounting for the school’s choir tours.

“They needed somebody to collect the money, do the accounting and do the business from the standpoint of making the trip viable,” he said. “So I did it – collected the money and paid the bills – for the first five or six choir tours. I went along with them too.”

But how did this former Earl Haig student come to be so involved with RSGC? It all started when he was camping in Port Sanfield, Ont., where Jack Wright happened to be renting a cottage.

“I saw him there and we got talking,” said Ron. “He had three children but had lost his babysitter so he asked me to take over. So I babysat for three boys for a week!

When the school opened, he wrote me a letter telling me about the school. That’s when I applied for my son, John.”

And so began the legacy.

Ron’s son John Firstbrook ’76 attended the College from Grades 5-11. John’s own son, Andrew, is part of the Class of 2015, having joined RSGC in Grade 9.

Ron is proud of the people his son and grandson have become and credits RSGC with playing a significant role.

“Private school is a wonderful opportunity and

22 The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College

Manners Maketh Men makes a big difference,” he said.

“One thing that impresses me most is the fact that they’re gentleman. They pronounce their ‘ing’s’ and give back to the community, which is very important in life.”

John definitely feels that the College played a role in shaping the person he has become.

“The discipline that I learned in the Junior School in particular made a huge difference in how I run my

business,” said John, who continues in the tradition of being in the family insurance business. “I was taught focus and how to deal with tough situations, and I had teachers who challenged me.

As I matured as a person, I realized that a lot of my background comes from what I learned while I was there.”

The challenges of growing up were made easier at RSGC as well.

“To have a home base that isn’t judgmental makes a big

By George, I Think We’ve Got It

By George, a school we surely need Was Jack Wright’s foresight, and high keyed Yesteryear was just a start To great tradition in Toronto’s heart What’s the name St. George’s College Magnificent staff, a fund of knowledge A host of old boys, such success Building leaders we must confess So to Jack Wright, John Bradley too, We raise a toast, to have a few Now to salute the majesty It’s Royal St. George’s as you can see There’s one old boy, back at school In today’s language, boys think he’s cool Stephen Beatty leads the parade Speaking of greatness, his dues are paid And to the future, tradition sound Thanks to insight greatness found The original thought to try, you can Manners, manners, maketh man!

difference,” said John. “It was a very safe haven there and that’s built from the ground up – that’s why it’s still like that today.”

That nurturing environment is a big part of why John’s son Andrew is now a Georgian.

“Andrew has done so well and he’s so happy here – we couldn’t have asked for more,” he said. “The friends that he brings home or to the cottage – they’re all great kids.

They’re first class.”

Andrew is now in his third year at the school and loves it.

“It’s the perfect place for me – not too big, not too small,” he said. “I like to know everybody by name and I’m able to do that here.”

And every day, Andrew can see the influence his family has had on the school – from the classrooms in Founder’s Hall to the new facility, which the Firstbrook family generously supported through the Honouring Our Past | Building Our Future Campaign.

“We made a conscious business decision to help pay building expenses,” said John, who said the idea behind

— Ron Firstbrook

“One thing that impresses me most is the fact that they’re gentleman. They pronounce their ‘ing’s’ and give back to the community, which is very important in life.” the Firstbrook’s gift was to help put the school on better financial footing.

“We wanted to make the point that people need to give back, but wanted to do it quietly,” said John about the donation. “Nobody knows

what we gave, but it meant a lot to us. RSGC is still a hidden gem, so we need to shout from the mountaintops and ask people to contribute financially through the alumni association to grow the foundation here.”

The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College 23

FEATURES FEATURE

F*&!ed Up

Georgian Connections Among RSGC alumni in the business world, some work for large, established companies, while others work for themselves. Yet among those grads who have taken the entrepreneurial plunge, a few have involved other alumni in their ventures. Whether as investors, advisors or partners, the friendships formed at the school have blossomed into meaningful business relationships.

If there’s a common thread among the people profiled, it’s trust. Whether they went to school together or first met as alumni, there’s a common bond of shared friends and a shared history.

Starting a business is risky enough.

Having solid, trustworthy friends to draw on for support helps make the experience immeasurably easier.

24 The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College

BY ANDREW HEPBURN ’02

Together in business and in friendship When you hear their life stories, it is not at all surprising that the trio would join together in business.

CHUCK MAGYAR, DAVID LYON AND STEWART ISTVAN ’84 Not all that far from the campus of what was then St. George’s College, three alumni from the class of 1984, Chuck Magyar, David Lyon and Stewart Istvan, work as a team. Together, they run the Forest Hill wealth management branch of HollisWealth, formerly known as DundeeWealth.

When you hear their life stories, it is not at all surprising that the trio would join together in business. They’ve done virtually everything else together already.

All grew up in the west end of Toronto.

All were Prefects in their final year of high school. All went to Western and graduated with degrees in Economics.

They attended each other’s weddings.

Between the three of them, they’ve only missed a handful of Old Boys’ Dinners and Alumni Ball Hockey Tournaments.

Outside of work and family, the three Georgian alumni participate yearly in the Pedaling for Parkinson’s biking event held in Parry Sound each summer.

Stewart’s brother, Peter Istvan ’87, started this ride in 2010. In 2013, the ride raised over $100,000 for the Parkinson’s Society.

Chuck, Dave and Stewart donate not only their time and the cycling jerseys for the event, but they also participate in the three-day ride.

It was only after their graduation from Western in the late ’80s that the three finally took slightly different paths – namely with their careers. Chuck, who has a stomach of steel for market

fluctuations, traded his own portfolio and made his livelihood at the Toronto Stock Exchange. David joined Royal Bank of Canada, where he worked for 10 years, while Stewart started his career in the pharmaceutical industry with ParkeDavis, a division of Warner Lambert.

Fast forward to February 2005 when Stewart, Chuck, Dave (and Gord Martin ’84) met to discuss buying a financial wealth management firm. What sealed the deal was a shared desire to do something new – all were looking for a change. Dave was tired of the corporate world; Stewart’s employer was moving to Montreal following a takeover by Pfizer and he was keen to stay in Toronto. As for Chuck, he notes that the world of trading was taking its toll.

“I was ready for a change and tired of the corporate world” said Dave. “I was really looking to have my own business and I couldn’t think of better business partners.”

They opened the doors of their Wealth Management firm in May 2005 under the name of DundeeWealth, now HollisWealth, and have not looked back since.

Though responsibilities do overlap, each has his forte. Dave, a self-professed “Excel spreadsheet junkie”, loves the planning aspect of wealth management.

Chuck most enjoys the trading. Stewart’s strength is client relations.

In hindsight, if you had to pick a

less than ideal time to enter the wealth management business, 2005 was it. By the fall of 2008, the world was enveloped in a massive financial crisis. Not the easiest time to be managing other people’s money.

“It was incredibly difficult because the news was unbelievably negative,” said Chuck. “The world was falling apart in the eyes of everybody, the stock market dropped 50 per cent in about four months and people watched their money literally disappear.”

Having a solid friendship helped the three ’84 alumni ride out the storm.

“When the market did crash, those were some pretty tough days coming in,” Stewart said.

They would constantly remind each other that they would get through it, which they have. And through the ups and downs, the one constant is their strong Georgian background.

“Working with Chuck and David has been exactly what I thought it would be,” said Stewart. “The trust and respect we have for one another stems from the values that were instilled in all of us during our years at RSGC.” One just has to visit their office to experience this firsthand. They treat all of their clients (and fellow Georgians) with the same care, understanding and respect that their first Headmaster would have been proud to witness. Manners Maketh Men is certainly a truism with these three Georgians.

The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College 25

SANDY GIBSON ’01, BRAD MILNE ’02, GEORGE THOMPSON ’88 AND GUY BURRY ’77 Sandy Gibson ’01 remembers a particularly trying time as an entrepreneur.

“I got off the plane from Brazil – my first vacation in five years,” he said. “My uncle had died while I was on the plane.”

At 6:00 am the next day, he got an email saying his Chief Technology Officer was leaving to take a job with LinkedIn. He credits his RSGC classmate and business partner Brad Milne ’02 with helping to steady the ship during those tumultuous days.

“Brad managed to keep our technical team together,” said Sandy.

Together, the two run Elevate Inc., which “helps companies deliver exceptional email newsletters on time”.

According to Sandy, their technology “means that making a newsletter is about 95 per cent faster than normal and gets you from two to ten times more engagement”.

“Normally people go out and write a newsletter,” said Sandy. “What our product does is pulls all the content directly from your website and crafts the newsletter automatically. So you’re now editing the newsletter and dragging and dropping, as opposed to writing it from scratch.”

Elevate has landed clients such as Sun Life, PricewaterhouseCoopers and Accenture.

Brad and Sandy’s shared entrepreneurial streak dates back to their school days.

“Throughout high school, we were

An unlikely foursome Two grads from the 2000s, one from the ’80s and one from the ’70s all working together to make a succesful business.

26 The Shield Winter 2014

definitely both interested in how to start companies, with the end goal of having a more interesting life,” said Brad.

While at different universities, Brad said that he and Sandy kept in touch by working on a business plan for a computer-assisted language-learning program. At the same time, the pair also started a company importing scarves and East African wraps.

For his part, Sandy says he was always entrepreneurial.

“I used to save up my Halloween candy so I could sell it to other kids,” he said of his RSGC days. “I’d use the money to buy ice cream.”

More recently, Brad was working for RBC just out of university when Sandy mentioned an opportunity to co-found a technology company in the U.S. Eventually, the two returned to Canada and founded the initial incarnation of what is now Elevate.

That forerunner was called Room 7B, named after the place where Brad and Sandy met: John Birkett’s Grade 7 homeroom.

Coincidentally, the two grads have relied on the business mentorship of another Room 7B alumnus, George Thompson ’88.

Sandy was at an Old Boy’s Dinner a few years back doing fundraising for the Richard Holdsworth Memorial

Scholarship when he met George. The two started talking business.

Sandy and Brad were looking for advice on their venture and George, a long-time entrepreneur himself, was happy to help out.

“Sandy will still call me up or send me an email looking for some thoughts on various issues that come up, anything from strategy to HR issues,” said George.

“Their ability to seek assistance in a way that makes people want to help you is incredibly good.”

Sandy credits George for providing invaluable guidance, particularly about closing a deal.

As Sandy puts it, “George taught me how to sell”.

Brad and Sandy have also relied on the mentorship of another RSGC alumnus, Guy Burry ’77.

Upon their return to Canada, the two were looking to connect with people who could provide guidance. RSGC Director of Advancement and Alumni Development David Lee introduced them to Guy, who has over a decade of experience in helping early-stage ventures.

Guy’s contributions to Elevate have been as varied as they are significant. For starters, he invited Brad and Sandy to use some extra office space where he worked.

He also used his knowledge of early-stage

ventures to assist Elevate, connecting them with new potential customers to accelerate revenue growth.

His influence is still visible to this day, having introduced Brad and Sandy to the current chairman of their board.

But Guy hasn’t simply offered years of wisdom to the younger alumni – he has also invested in their venture. It’s a reflection of his respect for Brad and Sandy.

“As an investor, I always look for the people,” said Guy. He underscores how much it means when mentors take a stake in a company they’ve advised.

“The ultimate compliment a mentor can make is to invest,” said Guy.

STEPHEN BUTLER ’88 AND TIM LOGAN ’88 Stephen Butler ’88 isn’t sure whose line it is, but the way he puts it, fellow ’88 alumni Tim Logan ’88 has been doing due diligence on him since Grade 8.

And for most of the time they’ve known each other, business wasn’t in the equation.

“I really had Tim very squarely in the friend bucket,” said Stephen.

Until one phone conversation during which the two discussed Stephen’s new company.

Stephen with his 6-year-old son, Tim (formerly known as Jasper!).

“At the end of the call, Tim told me to sit down and mentioned the amount he wanted to invest in my venture,” said Stephen.

That investment allowed Stephen to quickly reach the $500,000 mark for his technology startup, Gummii Inc. Simply put, Gummii aims to be a complete math tutor for elementary school kids on a tablet such as the iPad. It is the only math app to ever crack the top 25 in the Apple store.

“Gummii was born out of my frustration with tutoring for my daughter,” explained Stephen.

Stephen had both personal and entrepreneurial motivations for starting Gummii. His daughter’s time in math tutoring became a miserable experience for the family, requiring a large amount of effort from her parents in the form of drives to the centres and marking work.

Moreover, his own research suggested that the tutoring service they were using really wasn’t even all that effective.

While it was effective at automaticity – having kids know the answer to a question by memory – it didn’t do so well in facilitating true understanding. While his daughter knew how to multiply two numbers off by heart, when it came to three numbers, she panicked.

Stephen’s entrepreneurial side instincts were soon triggered.

“I’m always looking for markets that are ripe for disruption and sniffed an opportunity,” he said.

It turned out that the corporate structure in big tutoring companies invites competition.

“Nearly every major tutoring service uses a franchise model whereby they’ve sold off the geographic rights to use their model in different neighbourhoods,” said Stephen. “This model precludes them, effectively, from ever going online.”

Enter Gummii.

The app aims to do three key things: have the right technology, have the best curriculum and make learning engaging for the student. The latter aspect, known as gamification, amounts to making learning fun for kids, in part by offering various incentives for completing tasks. Call it the carrot approach to learning.

Tim understood how “gamifying” something could be effective. Back in 1993, he started a stock market simulation game aimed at high schools and universities. It was eventually sold to the Canadian Securities Institute.

He also knew Stephen very well.

“Not only is he bright, he’s talented,” said Tim, listing his friend’s integrity and honesty as other key attributes.

So when he heard his former classmate was starting his own business and looking for capital, he jumped at the opportunity.

“I’m glad I was able to get a little slice of Stephen Butler stock,” said Tim. Stephen says the investment from Tim was crucial.

“I can’t put enough emphasis on how critical it was in getting this company off the ground that he was as supportive as he was, when he was.”

Gummii makes math fun Stephen Butler had the idea, but it was only thanks to support from fellow classmate Tim Logan that Gummii came to fruition.

Many Mongolians still live in yurts, which they heat by fire in the cold winters.

The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College 27

FEATURE

The

Strength of an

Argument

Michael Lemanski, Canadian National Debate Champion, with Stephen Beatty ’86 (L) and John Lambersky (R).

Debates are a compelling and mesmerizing experience.

Think about some of the great orators: Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King Jr., and Sir Winston Churchill come instantly to mind. In Canada we have a radio show, The Debaters, which is hilarious comedy yet still follows the speak-and-refute model. In politics or law, those who can command the audience outrun those who stumble, no matter how graciously. Kathy Flaxman looks into the popularity of debating at Royal St. George’s College.

28 The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College

Photo: Julie Whelan

BY KATHY FLAXMAN

T

here are many awards in the form of Cups, but only Royal St. George’s College has a Saucer. This prize, the Challenge Saucer, is part of the long and cherished tradition of debating at RSGC and a symbol of the thought, hard work and innovation that has gone into the debating program. Canadian and World Studies teacher John Lambersky, who acts as advisor to the current debating program, notes that the Saucer started over 30 years ago and has been strong since its inception.

“The Challenge Saucer is a staple on the RSGC debating and public speaking calendar,” he said. “We attract some of the finest debating teams in the GTA.” Debating itself is popular, with students coming out to watch and root for their favourites as well as speak.

“Our young men, like all young men, have a competitive streak,” John said, explaining the popularity of debating at the College. “Debating allows an expression of that, yet with an emphasis on decorum and order. And contrary to media stereotypes, young men like intellectual activities. They think deeply about important issues, about philosophical issues.”

Exactly how much interest does debating generate at RSGC? “We have had almost 100 students come out at some point to watch a lunchtime debate, though not at the same time, of course,” said John. “We usually get between 30 and 40 students out as spectators on any given Monday. Typically, we will take about 20 students to tournaments outside the school each year.

Anthony Lisi says the skills of debating translate well onto the hockey arena.

“Our weekly intramural debates can be a hot ticket. Last term, spaces were claimed more than a month in advance.”

The debating sessions (currently called the Speaking Union) are held Mondays at lunch and are relatively informal.

“There is sometimes shouting, but it’s very civilized,” said Grade 11 student Anthony Lisi. “The moderator (a student who knows the formalities of a debate) will always smack the gavel when the room gets too crazy. That being said, the audience loves a good one-liner and doesn’t hesitate to reward the speaker with laughter.”

Anthony, a key member of the RSGC Knights hockey team and the Captain of the Vaughan Kings, is obviously extremely busy between academics and sports. Why does he include debating in his activities?

“I have always looked up to powerful speakers – people who can resolve intense conflict with words, who can articulate their ideas well and who can move others with words,” said Anthony. “I’ve found that debating has helped and will continue to help me become one of these powerful speakers I aspire to.”

The skills of debating translate rather neatly onto the hockey arena, says Anthony.

“Conflict is inevitable,” he said. “I’ve found much success in using logic to sort out conflicts on the team either personally or between other players. Also, being the Captain, it’s my job to be the voice of the players when talking to the coaches.

Especially in a much more mature setting, using logic and other aspects of debating has helped me to achieve

The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College 29

positive outcomes from conversations while maintaining a good relationship with the coaching staff.”

The Speaking Union activities have prepared students well, with RSGC winning on a national stage.

Michael Lemanski ’12, now studying philosophy at Yale, won last year’s Canadian National Debate, using his talents as a speaker and his affinity for determined study.

then produce the strongest examples to support my case.”

So what got Michael so interested in debating?

“I hated losing an argument,” he said.

He cites rhetorical speaking classes given by Evelyn Moore (known as Mrs. Miller during her 23 years at RSGC) as a major influence on his powerful debating record.

“Debate coach Mrs. Evelyn Miller gave us a foundation with work

school to attend NAMUN (North American Model UN), for example. We have hosted international tournaments with students from all around the world, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Cyprus and Pakistan—over 100 countries.”

There are numerous competitions throughout the school year, including the Challenge Saucer, the Fulford League (again, the prize is not a Cup but a trophy featuring a gavel), the Independent Schools Public Speaking Championships, competitions of the Ontario Student Debating Union and occasional universitysponsored high school tournaments.

other schools too. Now, in his professional role creating coats of arms, he routinely makes lectures and presentations, and writes documents supporting his work to senior management. His debating skills come right into play.

“Debating taught me how to prepare and present an argument,” said Bruce. “One learns how to construct a passionate view of an argument from both sides of the case.”

What exactly are the skills of a successful debater? One that stands out is the ability to listen. It’s fine to expound on a subject with passion and eloquence, but in some forms of debate, your opponent is likely doing the same, so refuting will be your subsequent challenge.

“If you believe in what you’re saying, the audience notices and will also believe in what you’re saying.”

Bruce Patterson ’86, Deputy Chief Herald of Canada, says his years of debating at RSGC have stayed with him.

He found that he had a solid foundation after many house debates.

“The format of the championship entailed topics chosen half an hour before the debate, so there wasn’t any time to prepare the content,” said Michael. “I found that the best preparation for this kind of debate was to study history and keep up-to-date on current events. I could

that was challenging and comprehensive, pushing us on both speaking presentation and argument,” he said.

“She allowed us considerable flexibility in how we prepared for tournaments, but would always offer rigorous criticism.”

“Debating is a special tradition at RSGC,” said Evelyn.

“In the early 1990’s, RSGC was the only secondary level

30 The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College

“Debating is a wonderful form of expression and it allows the teachers to get to know the boys very well,” she said. “When you accompany a young man to a debate in, say, BC, spending time in a taxi going place to place, you really get to know him.

“I feel I was able to help the boys overcome any fear of public speaking and learn to turn anxiety into excitement.”

Debating stays with you.

Bruce Patterson ’86 is now Deputy Chief Herald of Canada in the Governor General’s office in Ottawa.

He notes that his years as a debater at what was then St. George’s College were a wonderful way to make friends and meet people not only from the College, but from

“Often, you have to recap and respond to what someone else has just said,” Bruce said.

“That entails being skilled at thinking on your feet.”

Confidence is a key component as well.

“If you believe in what you’re saying, the audience notices and will also believe in what you’re saying,” said Anthony. “Speaking logically is another one of the most important aspects of debating.”

Prizes aside, it seems that the satisfaction of winning arguments at any level is a strong motivator for participation in debating. “I find great satisfaction in arguing, especially when I win,” said Anthony. “Something my parents can definitely attest to!”

FEATURE

The GSA and the

Georgian Legacy: “We’re All Brothers”

Jake Brett-Turner, John Carney, Nicholas Scime and Jack Schwartz are some of the many Georgians involved in the GSA.

BY SUMNER & LANG

G

rade 11 student Harrison Jarvis Cohen doesn’t claim to be an expert in all of his school subjects, but he’s an ace at understanding and explaining the challenges of the teenage experience.

“Identity seems to be everyone’s struggle and focus in high school – finding,

proving and showing who we all are,” said Harrison.

“Putting a lot of points of view together in one room really helps.”

Harrison is referring to his membership in the Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA), a student-run discussion group that began at Royal St. George’s College in 2010 and

has grown into an interschool organization among the single-sex independent schools in Toronto. Now, up to 50 boys and girls meet twice a month to talk about positive relationships, equality and the acceptance of all individuals, regardless of background, gender or sexual orientation.

With the whole community open to asking and answering difficult questions about identity, the GSA has become a vibrant part of school culture. The key to its success has been its fidelity to its original purpose: to offer a safe place for students to share personal issues, including but not limited to

The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College 31

gay, straight and gendered identities. Topics of discussion include the sexualized nature of popular culture, the essence of cool, fears about not fitting in, the challenge of switching friend groups and the role of technology in relationships.

The importance of seeing beyond sexual labels and overcoming social barriers resonates for many students today. Alex Shum, former Head of Mathematics at RSGC and co-facilitator of the group with RSGC social worker Andrea Kaye, understands why the GSA appeals to so many teenagers.

“We can get stuck in ‘us and them’ issues and see the world in terms of barriers and differences,” said Alex, who is currently the Head of Mathematics at Havergal College. “The GSA is about having meaningful conversations across divides, which requires vulnerability.

Teenagers really want to be authentic and be vulnerable, but it can be difficult without a group that holds acceptance as a core value.”

Being yourself and accepting others for who they are takes courage – as does forming a club that deals in part with sexual orientation within a boys’ school. But as Harrison explains, taking care of others is an important value at the school.

“Being there for each other is being a Georgian, no matter your demographic or interest,” he said.

The GSA’s origin story at RSGC is one of guts and compassion.

“It began as a small group of boys supporting a friend who had been open with them about his sexual orientation,” said Andrea, who worked with the students to launch the group. That student – Andrew

The group gets together in an informal setting.

Up to 50 boys and girls meet twice a month.

Mok ’11 – came out publicly in his Grade 11 year after he and his friend Jack Keilty ’10 established the group in the spring of 2010.

While the group was originally composed of young men forming a circle of support around a friend, it was never focused exclusively on issues of sexual identity. The group has grown and its bi-weekly meetings now welcomes boys and girls from UCC, BSS, Crescent, Havergal, St Clement’s and Branksome.

“The GSA is for anyone who feels different in some way,” said Andrew, now in his third year at McGill University. “It’s a place to go

32 The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College

"The GSA is a place to go and be yourself and have your own opinion. It’s a place of hope for everyone." and be yourself and have your own opinion. It’s a place of hope for everyone.”

The group began with small meetings in Andrea’s office in the basement of the Senior School, a safe and welcoming space that was familiar to the boys. It then moved to larger venues like the school library because membership grew quickly, adding both RSGC boys and students from other schools

interested in the idea of having real conversations about life issues.

Authenticity is the prime directive of the GSA. “Dropping the mask of fakery is a great relief to a lot of boys,” said Andrea.

Within the group, there are often discussions about why people wear masks, what they choose to show and hide, and what they fear about disclosure.

Clubs Galore There is a very active club community at RSGC, enveloping all interests. Here are just a few of the clubs in the 2013-14 school year:

Board Games Club Book Club Boxing and Fitness Club Business Club Dr. Death Jazz Band Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards Engineering Club Environment Club

L to R: Alex Shum, Harrison Jarvis-Cohen and Andrea Kaye.

Gamerz’ Union

Alex’s experience shows that teenagers can learn how to be more open and honest within a safe environment.

“When teenagers are authentic with each other, when they are supported and find the courage to be exactly who they are, they find out that they share more than they differ,” said Alex.

The students’ interest in starting a GSA at RSGC was supported by others who were committed to encouraging a club that positions itself at the forefront of social change. Students, teachers, parents and school leaders have been challenged to take up the fight against homophobia, intolerance and exclusion. In a school that inspires each boy to know and be the best version of himself, the GSA very quickly took root.

“From the beginning, the GSA had amazing administrative support,” said Andrea. “There was no pushback. In fact, there was tremendously positive

messaging from above to support the grassroots interest among the boys.”

Former head of the GSA Iain Bryant ’13 was not surprised by the school’s heartfelt support of the group during his time as a member and student leader.

“The school is a family, a community,” he said. “If you have a huge problem based on someone’s sexuality or on any other specific point of identity, you’re going to run out of people to talk to at RSGC.” The GSA’s history at RSGC may not be long, but its influence has already been widespread. It is now hosted on a rotating basis at the member schools in Toronto and the meetings are highly valued by the participants, who often head out to dinner together afterward.

Now in his first year at Trent University, Iain reflects on the appeal of the GSA for high school students.

“It’s basically a whole bunch of people with

similar principles but lots of individuality and differences,” he said. “You have an immediate feeling of total relaxation in the group. People are so sympathetic and so sweet to each other. It’s a place where you can show your heart.”

Despite its growth among independent schools, the group at RSGC has remained true to its roots.

Harrison believes that the GSA reflects the values of his school: trusting people, being true to your word, and respecting the rules and traditions that unite a group.

But most of all, Harrison sees the GSA as an extension of RSGC’s credo.

“You know how we say that Manners Maketh Men? That’s not about superficial behaviours like holding a door,” he said.

“It’s the basis of looking out for someone else.

It’s about being there for others in all the ways that count. It’s about remembering every day that we’re all brothers.”

Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) The Grifter Newspaper Miniature Figures Painting Club Ping Pong Club Reach for the Top RSGC Ball Hockey League Speaking Union

Former Leafs General Manager Brian Burke spoke to Georgians about his son coming out.

The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College 33

Our Changing Lives BIRTHS Michael Rutherford ’87 Michael is thrilled to announce the birth of his daughter Aria Clare on July 17, 2013. He is extremely proud of his wife Lisa Ennis for giving birth in their home in Ottawa.

Jeff Enfield ’97

Marc Burroni ’98

Matt Aaronson ’94

Jeff and his wife Melissa welcomed a new baby boy to the family on September 28, 2013.

Adrian Case Enfield weighed 8 lbs, 2 oz. Big brother Kaid is thrilled about the new addition.

Marc and his wife Isobel Russell were thrilled at the arrival of Cole Russell Burroni at 2:30 am on May 10, 2013. Despite arriving six weeks early, he weighed a strong 4 lbs, 11 oz. Everyone is healthy and feeling great.

Matt and his wife Kate Sanderson were thrilled to welcome Sarah, born in June. Her big sisters Alex, 8, and Caroline, 5, were likewise excited (and 4 months in, the novelty hasn’t worn off!).

Matt and Kate continue to live in Chicago where Matt is a Partner & Managing Director at the Boston Consulting Group.

Sarah with sisters Alex (L) and Caroline (R)

Adrian

Cole

DEATHS Jonathan Hames ’88

Andrew McKinnon ’07

On November 6, 2013, Jonathan passed away peacefully, smiling and with his friends by his side. He was 44. Beloved son of the late Joan and Marshall Hames, Jonathan was survived by his brother David and sister-in-law Jodie. Jon’s close friends were touched by his Herculean capacity for giving. He inspired those around him to sacrifice in equal measure. A passionate sailor, Jon looks down on us now from his heavenly barge, captain of his own ship at last. His funeral was held at RSGC. In lieu of flowers, Jon asked that donations be made to the Jonathan G. C. Hames Memorial Fund at the Toronto General and Western Hospital Foundation, which he established to help people battling cancer. Please call 416-340-4430 or visit www.tgwhf.ca.

Jon’s memorial can be viewed at www.henrywalser.com.

Andrew passed away peacefully on December 8, 2013 from complications due to diabetes. Beloved son of Barb and Angus. He will be sadly missed by brothers, Stuart and Cameron. Beloved grandson of Alastair McKinnon. He will also be missed by many aunts, uncles and cousins. If desired, donations in Andrew’s memory can be made to The Canadian Diabetes Association or Learning Enrichment Foundation at 116 Industry St., Toronto, Ontario, M6M 4L8.

34 The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College

MARRIAGES

Dave Gordon ’83 On July 6, 2013 in beautiful Quebec City, Dave married girlfriend Ashley. Other Georgians in attendance were classmate Andrew Abouchar ’83 and a business school classmate, Simon Holford ’94.

The couple lives in Houston, TX.

Ed Conroy ’95 Ed married girlfriend Sarah Tunney in the RSGC Chapel on August 13, 2013.

Several Old Boys were in attendance. Below, pictured from left to right: Erik Otema ’95, Blake Markle ’95, Ed Conroy ’95, Mark Magee ’93, Markus Otema ’98, Daragh Sankey ’93 and Andrew Prior ’93.

Jonathan Abraham ’02 On August 4, 2013, Jonathan married Joyce Satgunam.

Jonathan is a Research Associate at the New England Reseach Institute in the arena of public health. Jonathan graduated from the University of Toronto (BSc) and Brown University (MPH). They currently live in Boston, MA.

Andrew Newbury ’01 Andrew and Charlotte Hall (Branksome ’01) were married on October 19, 2013. The groomsmen were all RSGC alumni: D’Arcy Cook ’01, Rob Macdonald ’01, Ben McPhee ’01 and James Hall ’99.

Andrew and Charlotte first met at an RSGC dance in Grade 10.

The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College 35

Retrospective

Want to share your latest news, proud moments and achievements with the RSGC community? Send details to Fiona Cooper at shield@rsgc.on.ca

1970s David McClocklin ’72 The International Association of Crime Analysts (IACA) announced that Provincial Constable David McClocklin ’72 from the Ontario Provincial Police is the 2013 winner in the Analytical Category, Intelligence and Crime Charting. It was McClocklin keeps on winning.

David’s sixth consecutive win in the category.

He is a 32-year veteran and works in the OPP Provincial Operations Intelligence Bureau at the province’s headquarters in Orillia.

John Secor ’73 John has written a book of poetry in French, which has recently been published by Les Editions Pippa, in Paris, France. John provides his own translations/ versions of the poems in English, with illustrations by his eldest son, Michael, who has an MFA in painting. The book is titled Dessert du soir / Evening Sweets and is available in North America through John for $20, postage/handling included.

For more information, contact John at j.secor@ moreheadstate.edu.

Robert McCann ’77 Robert graduated from the University of Waterloo Ph.D. program in Experimental Psychology in 1987.

He then completed a National Sciences Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship at NASA’s Ames Research Center 36 The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College

in California, conducting basic research in human multi-tasking performance and the role of attention in visual word recognition. From 19902000, he co-developed a suite of cockpit displays to help pilots navigate airport surfaces in low

visibility conditions. One of his publications from this work, “An Evaluation of the Taxiway Navigation and Situation Awareness (T-NASA) system in High-Fidelity Simulation” won the Society of Automotive Engineers’ Wright Brothers Medal

Robert McCann works for NASA.

1980s for outstanding technical paper in 1999. In 2000, Rob joined NASA Ames’ Information Sciences and Technology Directorate as a NASA research psychologist. He is currently designing and conducting human factors evaluations of cockpit displays and user interfaces for next-generation spacecraft. Rob is the author or co-author of over 60 technical papers and research publications that have been cited over 1000 times in the open scientific literature.

Paul Jennings ’79 Rev. Canon Paul Jennings has resigned as Director of Pastoral Studies at the Montreal Diocesan Theological College to move to Nova Scotia. His wife, Elisabeth Bachem, a United Church minister, has accepted a call as Minister of Annapolis Royal United Church there.

Bruce Lawes ’81 Bruce recently spent time in Gettysburg for an event called the Gettysburg Project. Hundreds of thousands of people were in attendance over the four-day event, for which he did the commemorative poster. The original was sold at Gettysburg to a gentleman from Houston, Texas, along with many commemorative posters. Fifty per cent of all profits were donated to the Gettysburg Anniversary Committee to help continue to preserve the history that moulded the country.

Michael Adamson ’89 Michael’s artwork has recently been on display at three museum exhibitions: the Peel Art Gallery, with an inclusion of a Patch Work painting from 2008; Varley Art Gallery, with a 2009 Block and Dot work; and Beaverbrook Art Gallery, with a large red Counter Block from 2007. There have also been a number of corporate acquisitions of his paintings, including Nestlé WNA, Trinity Development, RPIA, Sutton Special Risk America, Downtown

Orthodontics and McCarthy Tétrault. Michael continues to contribute paintings to a number of important community projects: Lake Ontario Waterkeepers, ArtGems, Nyota House, St. Felix Centre, War Child and Children’s Aid Society.

The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College 37

Retrospective

1990s

2000s

Rory Gilfillan ’91

Camal Pirbhai ’92

Rory recently received his pilot’s license!

Congratulations, Rory.

Camal still counts as his two best friends Rajiv Chopra ’92 and Christopher Watchorn ’93. Although they live in Dallas and Ottawa respectively, his best friends have been an important part of Camal’s life. Camal has always marched to the beat of his own drum.

As a single father and artist, nothing in his life has ever been done in the conventional

Rory

Camal Pirbhai is a single father and artist.

way. After graduating from the College, he apprenticed as a couture curtain maker in London, England before coming back to Canada and starting his own business. Twenty years later, the company has established itself as the finest soft-furnishing workroom in the country. Camal’s artistry and talents have also been on display through works at the McMichael Art Gallery, the Textile Museum and the Gardiner Museum.

Join his mailing list and get invited to his famous TIFF shows where, every year, he unveils a collection of couture art pieces. www.

Gallerybespoke.com

Irfan Hajee

38 The Shield Winter 2014 • Royal St. George’s College

Irfan Hajee ’08 Keean & Co. is a fashion startup by RSGC alumnus Irfan Hajee and business partner Leo Park. They’re targeting an underserved market — men with waists 40" and over. By focusing only on this niche, the startup is able to design comfortable, modern and trendy clothing that is specifically tailored to fit and flatter the larger male form. The company has already gained immense support from the fashion industry and many potential customers. Keean & Co. is one of three companies selected to participate in the Fashion Zone, a Ryerson University startup incubator.

Blink and you could miss giving your son the best education You could walk right past Royal St. George’s College and never even know it’s there. Tucked behind some trees on a residential street in Toronto’s Annex, it looks more like a home than a school. And in many ways, it is.

Look a little closer, however, and you’ll discover what’s missing from most boys’ schools: the kind of camaraderie that comes from a small student body; a more creative learning environment; and a genuine love of the school.

It’s the one school you and your son don’t want to miss.

of his life.

IF YOU WANT YOUR SON TO THINK BIG, THINK SMALL.

rsgc.on.ca

Fellow Class of ’84 Georgians

Chuck Magyar, David Lyon and Stewart Istvan Working together, using a holistic approach to managing clients’ wealth management needs…

Stewart was a “lifer” at RSGC spending 10 years at the school (’74-’84) while both David and Chuck spent the balance of their high school years there (’78/’79-’84 respectively). We all look back fondly on those formidable years remembering the wonderful teachers, classmates and of course good ’ol Tony’s popcorn wagon, our “cafeteria” (a.k.a. the lunch truck) and many after school games and tournaments played on the asphalt “field”.

30 years after graduation, the three of us have remained not only friends but have joined together as partners, taking over the Forest Hill Branch at HollisWealth (formerly DundeeWealth) in May of 2005. Since then, we continue to help clients with their wealth management needs. We provide solutions to concerns about estate planning, mitigating tax, insurance needs and overall life planning objectives and strategies.

Most institutions want you to come in for a second opinion; we would like you to come in for a better one… a personal approach, from one Georgian to another.

Charles Magyar, CIM, FCSI

David Lyon

Portfolio Manager, Director: Private Client Group Financial Advisor HollisWealth (a division of Scotia Capital Inc.) HollisWealth Advisory Servies Inc. chuck.magyar@holliswealth.com Insurance Advisor

HollisWealth Insurance Agency Ltd. david.lyon@holliswealth.com

HollisWealth, Forest Hill Branch 980 Eglinton Avenue West Toronto, Ontario M6C 2C5 416.785.0513 www.watermark-wealth-management.com Watermark Wealth Management is a personal trade name of Chuck Magyar.

Stewart Istvan Licensed Assistant Marketing and Client Relations HollisWealth (a division of Scotia Capital Inc.) stewart.istvan@holliswealth.com

™ Trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia, used under license.

HollisWealth and the Scotiabank companies do not provide income tax preparation services nor do they supervise or review other persons who may provide such services. Insurance products provided

by HollisWealth are provided through HollisWealth Insurance Agency Ltd.