Valedictory Address at Presentation Night Good evening and welcome, staff, special guests, ladies and gentlemen and of course, my fellow students, to the College Presentation night. Brayden Keizer (12.1) Head Prefect 2014 This night is both an opportunity for celebration and reflection – a commemoration of the achievements of Trinity College students throughout the school year and also a chance for the graduating class of 2014 to recognise our legacy and turn towards what the future holds. This year we have had the privilege to write another page of the vibrant tapestry that is Trinity College’s rich history, inextricable as it is from service, care for the poor and education in the spirit of equality. From humble beginnings in Waterford Ireland in 1802 the Christian Brothers and their work has grown into a global force for education in the spirit of the Gospel. Whilst Trinity College understands that our own history – and our collective history as part of the Christian education movement – is of paramount importance, we must also heed the notion that the past has no power over the present moment. It is for this present moment in time that Trinity College seeks to prepare us – to combat injustices as Christ did, to embody the example of Edmund Rice, and to fight our world’s many inequities with the flaming sword of love and peace.
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Throughout my time as part of this community, I have witnessed first-hand its inclusivity and the spirit of altruism and service that it embodies – it is no wonder that Edmund’s simple vision for a better education for Ireland’s poorest boys has grown into an international community of like-minded people dedicated to social justice. Nearer to home, Trinity College Perth has continued to embody its ‘Men for Others’ ethos. I stand here today as a proud young man who has spent nine years – half of my life – as a Trinity College student. A boy who became a man, and a student who has grown to know more about me, others and life itself than I ever thought possible. Reflecting on the privilege that we have all enjoyed in attending such a passionate and unique school, we must give the sincerest of thanks to the sacrifice, hard work and dedication of our parents and loved ones. It was they who ensured that we received a first-class education not only in an academic sense, but also, and more importantly, on social morality, faith and service. For the tireless commitment and dedication to the betterment of our education, I salute and commend all Trinity staff, parents, guardians, friends and, indeed, all members of our special community.
