Keep Troth The Fall 2020 KHC Newsletter
r A Note from our 32nd Head of School r The KHC Corner r What Gillard Means to Us
1 Keep troth KHC Newsletter Fall 2020
Members of our community proudly model KHC colours with their 50th reunion scarves.
2
from glass passage KHC Newsletter Fall 2020
A Note from Linda As we approach the 50th anniversary of the union between KHC and BCS, my thoughts have often turned to what the decision to unite the two schools must have meant to the students, parents, faculty, staff, and alumni at that time. I suspect there were pockets of reluctance and resistance, and that the decision, though prudent, was not immediately greeted with unanimous approval; big decisions rarely are. I don’t envy the leaders of the school during that period. Change, even when it is well planned, necessary, and within your control, is hard to manage. In hindsight, we might salute those deciders for their courage. The spirit of KHC remains alive at BCS and the school continues to look for legitimate ways to weave the story of KHC
Linda celebrates the opening of our newest residence alongside former Head of School Will
into the story of BCS.
Mitchell.
Today, our school is facing an unanticipated, external challenge that requires us
achieve excellence in teaching, learning,
those traditions will bind our new chapters
to consider many changes to our organiza-
residential life, athletics, and leadership.
together with the ones that preceded
tion. Having wrestled with the seriousness
For positive change to ‘take’—whether
them.
of a global pandemic, we are now well
it is responding to an external, internal,
advanced with plans for safer learning and
planned, or unplanned driver, I think it has
in the history of our school, the arrival
As we approach an important milestone
living spaces, strategies for keeping our
to find a way to attach itself to a solid
of KHC girls at BCS fifty years ago, KHC
community healthy, and innovative ways to
foundation. In a previous ‘Note from Linda’
continues to be an important leitmotif in
continue to deliver the full BCS experience
in Keep Troth, I wrote about the roots that
the chapters that are written on Moulton
in light of the new reality. In addition to this
KHC alumnae symbolized. The change we
Hill.
unanticipated external change, we have
must embrace now also requires strong
a foreseen, internal change: the transfer
roots to support it, and I have begun to
of Headship from Will Mitchell to Michel
think of the changes we need to make as
Lafrance, our 32nd Head of School. We
new chapters in the long history of KHC
Linda Rodeck, BCS’81
thank Will for facilitating a very smooth
and BCS. These chapters of change will
BCS Association Board Chair
transition to Michel and welcome the
need a strong spine; the old-fashioned kind
Lafrance family to BCS. We are also in the
that is not glued together but sewn for
final year of our five-year strategic plan,
maximum durability. The traditions we have
which means we are about to dive into
safeguarded and celebrate, the legacy of
a period of intense self-reflection, with
KHC and BCS together, form that strong
research on best practices and extensive
spine that will support these new chapters.
community engagement to determine
Whether written as a result of planned or
where we need to take our school to
unplanned change, internal or external,
3 Keep troth KHC Newsletter Fall 2020
Head of School Michel Lafrance looks forward to celebrating the 50th anniversary of the merger of KHC and BCS.
A Note from Michel As I begin my tenure at Bishop’s College School, I already feel part of the BCS/KHC
As I look to the future, I am eager to meet as many KHC alumnae as possible,
community. I was introduced to the history
celebrating the much anticipated 50th
of KHC and the joining of both schools in
anniversary of the joining of KHC and BCS,
1972 by our archivist Merrylou Smith and
and steering the school towards its 200th
have had the distinct pleasure of meeting
anniversary in 2036. My family and I plan
with Margot (Graham) Heyerhoff, KHC’69,
to be integral members of this community
on several occasions. Each conversation
for a long time and I hope that you will
has revealed a little more about the
share your stories, your memories, and your
way of life at the quaint all girls’ school
passion for your school in order to help us
in Compton. What I have learned so far
fully appreciate your experience.
is that KHC was a community built on
When I walk through the glass passage,
trust, respect, rigour, and support—it
please know that you are always in my
was essentially a family! As I have come
thoughts.
to know the BCS community, I see those
Stay safe. Be well.
same values emanating from the students, the staff, and the alumni. The transition that occurred in 1972 was clearly done successfully and the spirit of both schools
Michel Lafrance
lives on today.
Head of School
4
stories KHC Newsletter Fall 2020
Margot Heyerhoff, KHC’69, and Head of School Michel Lafrance met in early July to discuss where to house the St. James the Less church bell on the Moulton Hill campus.
The KHC Corner By Merrylou Smith If anyone were to ask a current student
location for the bell, and the design of the
we are creating a display table that will
who Dr. Gillard was, they would most
artistic structure that will hold it. Margot
contain KHC memorabilia. At a future date,
likely answer, “someone from the past
also met with the former Head of School,
the stained-glass windows recuperated
that has a building named after them.” We
Lewis Evans, BCS’65, to discuss a pedestal
from the St. James the Less church will be
are creating a KHC corner to educate our
he has generously offered to build to
installed somewhere on campus. Our goal
students about the legacy of King’s Hall,
display the bronze bust of Dr. Gillard. Once
is to have the permanent KHC commem-
Compton. As we near the
50th
completed, this commemorative piece will
orative display installation completed for
of the BCS and KHC amalgamation, it is an
be on display in a high traffic area of the
the 50th anniversary of the KHC and BCS
opportune time to raise awareness with our
school which we are dedicating to King’s
amalgamation at the beginning of the 2022
students of the impact and influence of
Hall, Compton alumnae. This location is at
academic year.
KHC throughout the years.
the juncture of the glass passage, between
anniversary
In early July, Margot (Graham) Heyerhoff,
School House and the Peter Holt Memorial
KHC’69, had the opportunity to visit with
Library, in the Hartland Molson Student
Michel Lafrance, the 32nd Head of School.
Centre.
They discussed the St. James the Less
This location was chosen as it commem-
church bell and its proposed location on
orates the glass passage at King’s Hall,
campus. In August, Margot will return
Compton, and is also a display area hallway
with the architects to discuss the best
lined with KHC photographs. In addition,
5 Keep troth KHC Newsletter Fall 2020
Cala Tesolin and Violetta Zeitlinger-Fontana, both of the Class of 2020, were privy to the legacy of sisterhood that Dr. Gillard left behind as boarders in Gillard House.
What Gillard Means to Us By Cala Tesolin and Violetta Zeitlinger-Fontana Boarding school is a formative experience
is unique for many reasons but what really
international community. As student
for every student but the one thing that
sets it apart is the diverse group of young
leaders, it was our job to make everyone
will be most influential in their growth is
women from all corners of the globe who
feel welcome as soon as they stepped foot
their residence. Gillard House is named
come together to form not just a tight-knit
on campus. Although Dr. Gillard herself may
after former Headmistress Dr. A. E. Gillard
community, but a family. Having close to
not have been the one to teach us these
who was an integral part of the King’s
40 sisters meant there was never a dull
ideals, it was her legacy that helped shape
Hall, Compton community. Her continuous
moment. There was nothing like the thrill
our moral compasses.
service to KHC is what earned her this
of our gift exchange during the Christmas
To anyone who has never been a part of
permanent tribute within the Bishop’s
season at Gillard House. Sometimes, if we
the Gillard sisterhood, it is hard to describe
College School and KHC communities. Dr.
had to get a gift for someone we did not
the effect that such an experience can
Gillard was a pioneer in empowering women
personally know very well, we would take
have on you for years to come. Our time
to reach their full academic potential and
this as an opportunity to strengthen our
at Gillard House had its highs and lows but
her legacy of bravery and excellence lives
bonds with everyone regardless of age,
at the end of the day living there made us
on in Gillard House today.
form, or interests.
who we are today. Gillard House is more
As students who have spent most of
This is only one example of the many
than what its name alludes; it is a home, a
their time at this school living in Gillard
practices of inclusion that immensely
safe space, and an environment that has
House, we have first-hand experience
prepared us for our role as prefects in
always encouraged positivity, and for that,
when it comes to our House values of
our final year. If there is anything that our
we will always be grateful.
inclusion and perseverance. Gillard House
school is known for, it is being an extremely
Stories 6 Fall 2020 KHC Newsletter
Gillard Houseparent Mary MacLachlan organized a flash mob for this year’s International Women’s Day.
Celebrating Women’s Rights in an ‘Old Boys’ School’ By Bethany Rothney When Mary MacLachlan arrived at Bishop’s
York women who protested their terrible
house is clearly a perfect fit. Both Miss
College School as a Houseparent in Gillard
working conditions. The United Nations
Gillard and Mary looked for and found ways
House, her goal was to make the girls in
made March 8th the official International
of empowering the young women in their
her house feel empowered. “I want the
Women’s Day in 1975 – International
charge. Mary’s ongoing pursuit of empower-
girls to be able to recognize when they are
Women’s Year.
ment for young women is just one way BCS
being harassed and mistreated,” she said,
In the post-‘Me Too’ world, International
“Sometimes it feels like we’re going a bit
Women’s Day has become globally celebrat-
backwards.”
ed. Mary’s initiative to give the special
It was on International Women’s Day that
day a bigger platform at BCS stems from
Mary decided she should do something.
these sources of inspiration. As the 50th
The special day was mentioned during the
anniversary of the amalgamation of KHC
day’s chapel assembly, however women’s
and BCS approaches, celebrating alumnae
contributions to the school and society
women’s contributions to the school is
were not necessarily celebrated. There was
even more timely. “BCS was an ‘Old Boys’
no mention of why International Women’s
school,’ and you can feel that still lingering
Day was celebrated, nor why the day is
in the air,” Mary said.
significant.
Miss Gillard was one of the most notable
The first International Women’s Day took
Headmistresses of King’s Hall, Compton.
place in 1911 in celebration of 15,000 New
Mary’s position as Houseparent in Gillard
celebrates International Women’s Day and continues Miss Gillard’s legacy.
7 Keep troth KHC Newsletter Fall 2020
We’re grateful to have reminders of the legacy of King’s Hall, Compton throughout campus, including this sculpture displayed in the Peter G. Holt Memorial Library.
Stories 8 Fall 2020 KHC Newsletter
Compton Cemetery is the final resting place for many members of the KHC community.
Compton Cemetery By Tyler Gordon Over the last few years, the legacy of the
Laura Joll, Lady Principal of King’s Hall,
KHC Old Girls and its connections to BCS
Compton from 1905 to 1928; Reverend
has been the centre of attention for the
George H. Parker, who was responsible for
Advancement team. As we continue to find
returning and rebuilding St. James the Less
ways to showcase and enlighten the BCS
church to its original location (the current
community about the KHC legacy, its spirit
location) in 1887, and who was the first
still emanates from Compton and KHC Old
priest to live in the parsonage next to KHC.
Girls. In conversations about KHC, many
There are also members of the Bliss Family
Old Girls ask about the Compton Cemetery,
who owned Maplehurst Farm, and Mrs.
adjacent to St. James the Less church.
Bliss had a tearoom there for the KHC girls.
Established around 1815, this cemetery is
There is also a member of the Kellam family
the final resting place of some of the first
who owned Kellam House, nicknamed “The
Compton area settlers and was originally
Cottage” by the KHC girls. Connections
called the St. James Anglican Church
between BCS and KHC are also to be found
Cemetery. The fine ornamental iron fence
here, as James B. Winder, BCS’52, Old Boy,
and gate was gifted by Senator Matthew
librarian, and founding archivist of the
H. Cochrane in 1875 and still stands today.
BCS Archives was also laid to rest in this
This cemetery is also the final resting
cemetery.
place for members of the KHC community, founded in 1874. The KHC Community members include; Richard Dinzey, son of Reverend Dinzey, the founder of Compton Ladies College; Senator Matthew Cochrane, whose daughters attended Compton Ladies College; Miss
9 Keep troth KHC Newsletter Fall 2020
Gillian (McLaren) Frith, KHC’61, Recalls Some of us were lucky enough during our
we had wonderful philosophical discussions
by the powers that be. That was always
time at Compton (or more properly, King’s
about life and about books and about
the most fun––their road and house were
Hall) to have known the ‘GBs’ (or more
funny things too. I particularly remember
‘out of bounds’, so it was always great fun
properly, Mr. and Mrs. Gilpen Brown). They
conversations about J. D. Salinger and Raise
to run the risk and get away with it! They
were a retired couple who had moved from
High the Roof Beam, Carpenters and The
would show concern that THEY might be
somewhere in Ontario to a modest house
Catcher in the Rye––books we were certain-
in trouble with the school, but they always
on a country road in rural Quebec. Their
ly not officially reading in our literature
let us in for a visit and a hot chocolate or a
white clapboard house could be seen from
classes. The GBs were always interested in
cup of tea!
the driveway of the school, just beyond
what we had to say and what we thought,
the soccer field and a short hop across an
and we were mutually interested in their
they first moved to Compton, the role they
unmowed field.
points of view.
would play in the lives of many teenage
Sometimes a few of us would be invited
They were our escape hatch, our
I often wonder if they had any idea when
girls hungry for the kind of open-hearted
by them for tea or even supper on a Sunday
salvation, our confidants, and our friends.
companionship and understanding they
afternoon. Mrs. GB usually made scones
Looking back on that time I think they were
provided.
for tea and if it were supper it would be
somewhere between a much older brother
something delicious and unlike anything we
and sister and a very indulgent aunt and
heard they had moved back to Ontario at
had at the school.
uncle.
some point. I do not really have a concept
Often, when not formally invited and
We would sit on the floor in front of the
I lost touch with them over the years but
of how old they were then, and though they
fire and forget for a few hours all our petty
therefore sanctioned by the school author-
could not possibly be alive now, they will
goings on across the way. We talked about
ities, a couple of us would ‘sneak’ over to
always be alive in my memory.
all manner of things, complained a bit
their house for an impromptu short visit
about the drudgery of school, but mostly
during our free outdoor time, undetected
Wendy Rankin, KHC’64, Recalls In view of the fact that we are in the
We had one minor epidemic during those
throes of a pandemic, here are some of my
years. Chicken pox. I didn’t get the virus
memories about community health and
then, but I did have several stints in the
individual health at KHC.
infirmary when I had bronchitis.
When I was at Compton between 1960
After being in the infirmary, the rule was
and 1964 all the girls went into quarantine
that before returning to the gym, one had
upon arrival at the school. Miss Jenkins, the
to get permission from Miss Jenkins to do
school nurse would arrive every evening
so.
in the prep hall dressed in her crisp white uniform and white crepe soled shoes. I’m not certain but I think she wore a cap. She carried a tray of thermometers propped in glasses filled with rubbing
I vividly remember standing outside the infirmary and asking Miss Jenkins “Can I take gym” and her response was “It depends on where you want to take him.”
alcohol and each girl was subjected to a thermometer for a few minutes as she made her rounds. I believe this happened for three weeks and included checks on Saturday as we went up the stairs to bed after the week’s movie.
Wendy Rankin, KHC’64, in her final year at King’s Hall.
Stories 10 Fall 2020 KHC Newsletter
Side by side, the KHC Class of 1965’s 20th class reunion in 1985 and 50th class reunion in 2015.
Jeannie (Walbridge) Blevins, KHC’65, Recalls The best aspects of my two years at
On early morning before Christmas,
Sunday evenings just before lights out
King’s Hall, Compton–Grades 10 and 11
the choir sang outside in the snow under
featured a recorded singing of the Lord’s
(Matric)–were my classmates. Without
sleeping students’ windows. “Past three
Prayer. A soothing ending to the weekend.
related family nearby, the girls became
o’clock, and a cold frosty morning, Past
my family. We depended on each other.
three o’clock. Good morrow masters all.”
was especially poignant when WE were
We risked minus points to have forbidden
The chilly concert was followed by a special
the Matric grads in 1965. And every time
chats with each other after lights out.
breakfast for us choristers. A definite
we Old Girls have reunions: 10th, 20th, 50th,
These memories have endured for over 50
highlight.
our class song is sure to bring tears to our
years with regular reunions, e-mails, and Facebook contacts. Another major memory for me at KHC
During rare unscheduled time, we found precious opportunities to make music: folk music on guitars – “The answer, my
was music. There was no official music
friend, is blowing in the wind…”; and music
course, but there was a church choir. I loved
in basement piano rooms. Grade 9 student
singing. In my Grade 10 year, I was granted
Marty and I paired up on a piano. She
the honour of singing the only solo.
played the melody while I played lower
Funny story about the church choir. I had
harmony chords. Once we sang “Scarlet
just been confirmed at home in the United
Ribbons” to keyboard accompaniment. At
Church of Canada. Thus, I was not familiar
the end, we were startled by applause
with Anglican services. Headmistress Miss
outside the piano room window.
Gillard told us that anyone who was a
The only television available to us was in
member of their own church was permitted
the lounge. We students were permitted
to take communion at Saint James the
to watch a Beatles TV performance there
Less. Gilly reassured us: “If you don’t know
ONCE. Special treat. I remember feeling
what to do during the church service, don’t
frustrated with the teenage TV audience
worry. Just follow the choir.” Guess who
who were screaming so loudly that it was
was the only non-Anglican in the choir?
hard to hear the songs.
The graduation song “Forty years on…”
eyes. “When you walk through a storm… you’ll never walk alone.”
11 Keep troth KHC Newsletter Fall 2020
Left: No stranger to leadership, Dr. Stephanie Smith, BCS’90, was a prefect in her Form VII year at BCS, following in her mother Gill’s footsteps. Right: Gillian (Rowan-Legg) Booth, KHC’61, was Head Girl in her graduating year.
Fighting Infectious Disease in the Year of COVID-19 By Bethany Rothney 2020 has been a year for the history books.
to plan.” In addition to all of the safety
that had always interested her, and she
While the world shut down, nurses, doctors
concerns, Stephanie says that calming
says that a trip to India, while she was at
and infectious disease specialists have
the anxieties of staff who were concerned
BCS, exposed her to the burden developing
been working around the clock, fighting to
about taking the illness home with them,
countries face due to infectious diseases.
halt the spread of COVID-19. Dr. Stephanie
was also a major part of her job leading
While she may not have had her exact
Smith, BCS’90, daughter of Gillian (Row-
up to COVID-19 reaching Canada. As the
career in mind at the time, she acknowl-
an-Legg) Booth, KHC’61, is an associate
lockdown persisted and economically
edges the impact that attending a private
professor at the University of Alberta in the
suffering businesses wished to reopen,
boarding school had on her. “Infection
division of Infectious Diseases and Director
Stephanie said, “The issue became, how do
control, especially right now, requires a
of Infection Prevention and Control at the
we do that safely?”
lot of leadership skills, conflict resolution
university hospital. While the rest of us bunkered down
“Shutting down was easier than opening
skills and thinking on your feet, and the
back up,” she said, “COVID hasn’t gone
opportunities that I had at BCS helped me
in our homes to wait out the pandemic,
away… we’re really not in a different
and allowed me to be where I am now.”
Stephanie was right in the centre of it.
situation.” Learning to live differently in
As the Director of Infection Prevention
the next six to nine months, the time until
and Control, it has been a busy time for
a vaccine will be available, will be key
Stephanie. She says that she was prepared
to preventing another major outbreak.
for the oncoming pandemic, so her ensuing
Maintaining physical distancing as much as
workload has been manageable. “When we
possible, hand hygiene, and wearing a mask
first heard about COVID in January, there
Stephanie says, are the keys to keeping
was obviously concern, but it was [still] in
ourselves and those around us safe.
China,” she said. “We were watching very
Stephanie credits her attendance at BCS
closely…but when it started to spread
as one of the factors that led her to the
into Europe, that’s when we really started
field of infectious disease. It was a topic
Stories 12 Fall 2020 KHC Newsletter
The KHC legacy proudly lives on in the many prizes and awards offered to our current-day students.
KHC Awards 2019-20 End-of-Year School Assembly
The “40 Years On” Award
exemplifies what Martin Luther King, Jr.
Donated by Ann McNally Budge, KHC’54,
called “content of character” and stresses
this award is for the senior girl who best
kindness, caring, and courage of one’s
The Stoker Prize for Art
displays the love of sport in the out-of-
conviction. This year, the prize was awarded
Given in memory of Shirley Harrison Stoker,
doors and who is likely to have the same
to Aidan Feddema.
KHC’46, and Chair of the BCS Board from
enthusiasm 40 years on. This year, the prize
1984-1988. This year, the prize was
was awarded to Maeve Maclachlan.
awarded to Chloe Seehafer.
Special Prizes
The Hewson Prize for Music
The Laura Joll Award Donated by the KHC Old Girls’ Association for the girls who have shown most effort in contributing toward house spirit. This year,
Named to honour Dorothy Hewson and her
Prix Mlle Cailteux
the prize was awarded to Sarah Francoeur
36 years of teaching music at KHC and
Ce prix est remis à la jeune fille dont
(Gillard House), Fiona Mercure (Ross
BCS. This year, the prize was awarded to
l’attitude face au français comme langue
House), Cemre Naz Kurun (Glass House),
Aidan Condo.
d’apprentissage et de communication a
Violetta Zeitlinger-Fontana (Williams
servi à la communauté de BCS. Présenté
House).
2019-20 Graduation Ceremony Athletic Awards
annuellement à la mémoire de Mlle Odette Cailteux, professeure de français
The Gillard Award
à King’s Hall, par Mary Cochrane Holt
Donated by the KHC Old Girls’ Association.
The King’s Hall Cup
Cowans, KHC’54, et John Douglas Cowans,
Awarded to a girl in the school for
Given to the Girls’ All-Round Athletic
BCS’54. Cette année, le prix est décerné à
leadership, integrity, industry, and games.
Champion. This year, the prize was awarded
Elizabeth Couture.
This year, the prize was awarded to Cala
to Lia Heggman.
Tesolin.
The Jennifer Prosser Wade Award Donated by Jennifer Prosser Wade to recognize a Form VI student who best
13 Keep troth KHC Newsletter Fall 2020
Proudly displaying its storied history, this 50-year-old award is still presented to deserving young women every year. This year, it was given to Cala Tesolin. Read her story on page 5.
14
class notes KHC Newsletter Fall 2020
Clockwise from above left: Gillian (Rowan-Legg) Booth, KHC’61, has travelled across North America with her trusty KHC blazer; The KHC Class of 1959 reunited for a weekend of fun in Ottawa; The KHC Class of 1961 found new ways to connect over Zoom during the pandemic.
Nancy Petry, KHC’48
Not long ago I went to the hospital for a
having them delivered to our rooms. Friends
“Hi. I graduated many years ago from King’s
test (it was negative). When I got back a staff
and family will be able to visit and we them.
Hall, Compton but I still remember how
member was waiting for me and escorted me
Activities will resume and bingo fans will be
happy we were to be at such a wonderful
to my room. I was told I was in quarantine
delighted. I am keeping well and keeping
school. I have been very busy lately
and would not be able to leave my room for
safe. Hope all of you are too.”
making a new website of my art works.
14 days. That happened to residents when
I have been a visual artist all my life and
they went off the property for any reason,
the very pleasant Applefest Lodge Senior
I think many people who read Keep Troth
in case they were close to someone with
Retirement Residence in Brighton, Ontario
would be interested to look at my website:
the virus while out. I told my escort that
for almost two years. She can be reached at
www.nancypetry.com. Best wishes.”
prisoners on death row got out for an hour
the following address:
Barbara has been living comfortably at
each day. That won’t happen here she said. Barbara Gibaut, KHC’54
As regulations and restrictions eased, my
Applefest Lodge Retirement Residence
“This is quite the experience being in lock
quarantine period was shortened by a few
120 Elizabeth St Box 850
down at a Seniors’ Residence. What it means
days. I was able to leave my room, walk out
Brighton, ON KOK 1HO
for the 65 residents at Applefest Lodge is no
of the building, and roam happily around
Tel # 613 707 7949
visitors, no activities, and no meals in the
the property. Only time will tell when there
E-mail barbaragibaut36@gmail.com
dining room. This situation creates a feeling
is some normalcy in our lives such as going
of loneliness for some of us.
to the dining room for our meals rather than
15 Keep troth KHC Newsletter Fall 2020
Above: Martha MacDonald, Jennifer Croome, Lindy Farrell, Lalage Hackett, Esther MacLeod, Mary Usher-Jones, Emily Black, Margot Cowen, Lalage Hackett, Dodi Hornig, and Lindy Farrell, all Class of 1963 at their reunion in Tadoussac last September. Below: Members of the KHC Class of 1963 reunited in Tadoussac.
Farrell, Nancy (Glass) Carter, Elizabeth (Price) McCrudden, and Penny (Throsby) McDonald.” Gillian (Rowan-Legg) Booth, KHC’61 “I thought you might be amused to know that my blazer has travelled from 1961 to 2011 from Compton, Quebec to Halifax, Nova Scotia to Brooklandville, Maryland to Lancaster, Pennsylvania to Tarboro, North Carolina to Colorado Springs, Colorado to Toronto, Ontario to Erindale, Ontario to Caledon, Ontario to Chester, Nova Scotia to Lenox, Massachusetts and finally back to Chester, Nova Scotia. Maybe it will surface in September 2021 when we gather in Montreal for our 60th reunion!” Judy (McColm) Boswell, KHC’56
on a Double Decker Bus, then took tours
KHC Class of 1961
Judy has spent the last 23 years competing
of the House of Commons, the National
Submitted by Gillian (Rowan-Legg) Booth, KHC’61
in synchronized swimming. She swims in
Gallery of Canada, the Gaugin Exhibit, and
“Fifty-nine years on when afar and asunder,
the Masters League and participates in the
the Canadian Mint. We enjoyed a lovely
parted are those who are singing today...
provincial events.
evening at the home of Cynthia Joan
Yes… parted but still connected. The
(Cordeau) Baker and ended our reunion
wonders of Zoom have allowed at least
KHC Class of 1959
with an excellent dinner at the Courtyard
twelve of us from the Class of 1961 to gather
Submitted by Rosemary Christensen, KHC’59
restaurant followed by the ‘Northern Lights’
virtually for wine and conversation during
“Planned by our classmate, Joan (Wright)
sound and light show on Parliament Hill.
the COVID-19 pandemic. From Scotland to
Gale, our reunion was held in Ottawa from
It was great to catch up with Cynthia
Colorado, Florida to Bermuda, Nova Scotia
September 3-5. We stayed at an ideally
(Cordeau) Baker, Joan (Wright) Gale, Kate
to Ontario and Quebec, we enjoyed sharing
located small hotel, ByWard Blue Inn on
Reed, Lorna (Murray) Beverley, Elaine
experiences and laughter as we interacted
Clarence Street in ByWard Market. We took
(Audet) Kirschner, Barbara (Murray)
fifty-nine years after our KHC graduation—a
in all the Ottawa sights and sounds—we
Norton, Wendy (Whitehead) Nelles, Ann
testament to the strength of the bond forged
started by boarding the Hop-On-Hop-Off tour
(Taylor) Collombin, Helen (Gibb-Carsley)
during our Compton years!”
Class Notes 16 Fall 2020 KHC Newsletter
Submitted by Kathy MacCulloch, KHC’63
When time came for all to say goodbye
We’ve Been to a Marvellous Party (circa 2019)
It was hard for some of them not to cry.
By Kathy MacCulloch Again, with apologies to just about everyone, especially Noel Coward We’ve been to a marvellous party - to celebrate 56 years on. This time we were summoned by Anne Evans Belton To Tadoussac, home to her heart. The place was so charming, she may find it alarming To hear she’s voted Hostess for Life! We’ve been to a marvellous party - again, girls came from near and afar. Martha and Peter (yes, Peter!) Lindy and Anne came the West While Kathy and Sue came from Down East.
The gals left by plane, train and car Heading for places both near and far. Not all the KHC Class of ‘63 were able to come But they were included in thoughts & calls, so not so glum. We all want to thank Anne and her Family Crew Without them what would we ever do? They were all so gracious, fun and kind Making us feel at home, with peace of mind.
Then came Emily, Callie and Janet, Pam, Mary and Penny.
Next time we meet will likely be
Lal, Margot and Esther, Dodi and Jennie.
Our big KHC Reunion Year “60”
And we couldn’t have liked it more! So long for now, please all stay in touch We’ve been to a marvellous party - and no one had changed AT ALL!
& until then, Anne, THANK YOU EVER SO MUCH.
… unless you count hearing aids, new knees and cataract surgery. All useful for talking, walking, whale watching and dune surf-ery.
Submitted by Margot Cowen, KHC’63
The food was divine and the wine quite sublime,
Great limerick, I have been working on a haiku sooo here goes...
All catered by our Anne and super tour guide Jane And we couldn’t have liked it more! We’ve been to a marvellous party - and since we’re so hip and inclusive, We allowed BOYS to join us …. and what a good idea THAT was! Lew, Tom, Alan and Ian jumped into the fray and kept the drinks flowing, swept dishes away. (It was the LEAST we could do to include Anne’s family!) And we couldn’t have liked it more! We’ve been to a marvellous party - VIVA the Class of ‘63!
Sixteen happy souls One incredible hostess Four memorable days Submitted by Janet (Burgoyne) Partridge, KHC’63 WELL DONE, Dodi … you’ve sent us all reeling, Able to express what we were all feeling. To Anne and her “fam”, can’t thank you enough For all that you did to put up with our guff!
It’s easy to see and I think you’ll agree
You opened MY eyes to Quebec’s north shore,
That the bonds remain strong as the years roll along
So, I’ll certainly get back to explore some more.
Take care and stay well till we gather again. Follow up! Follow up! Follow up! we cried
Alan’s prayer in the Chapel was certainly moving,
And we couldn’t have liked it more
And “Forty Years On” really sounded quite grooving!
Submitted by Dodi Hornig, KHC’63
So, until our 60th … it will be a bonanza …
There once was a woman, her name was Anne
“Forty Years on” might need a new stanza.
Who took on a task more than most people can. She set up a reunion for a gaggle of gals, All boarding school buddies & lifelong pals.
“Hasta la vista” and “a la prochaine” .. Thanks to you, Anne … again and again Submitted by Mary (Cape) Usher-Jones, KHC’63
She organized lots of fun things to do,
Oh boy! / Old girl!!
Like walking, fabulous meals & whale watching too.
You sure have delivered a pearl. I got as far as:
Everyone giggled, talked and caught up on news
There once was a girl called Anne Evans
Some even had time for an afternoon snooze!
Who lived in her own slice of heaven She invited her pals
Four days these gals hung around together
For food wine and whales
They were blessed with mostly fabulous weather.
And we all think she’s some special woman
17 Keep troth KHC Newsletter Fall 2020
Clockwise from left: The KHC Class of 1965 held a Zoom reunion to catch up over the summer; The ladies from the Class of 1964 reunited virtually over Zoom in June; Jeannie (Walbridge) Blevins, KHC’65, is still sporting her signature smile 55 years later.
KHC Class of 1963
my clothes, or KHC sweaters etc., but I love
KHC Class of 1965
The KHC Class of 1963 reunited at Anne
this scarf.”
Submitted by Gillian “Jill” Stainforth, KHC’65; Photos submitted by Sara (Peck) Colby, KHC’65, and
(Evans) Belton’s home in Tadoussac at the beginning of September. The ladies had
KHC Class of 1964
Margot (Grant) Kyle, KHC’65.
a wonderful time catching up and even
Submitted by Andrea (Newman) Gordon, KHC’64
“We were 20 or 21 of our graduating class 55
did some whale-watching. See the series
“Ann (Stikeman) Garland was able to
years ago, and four of our classmates have
of poems recounting their reunion on the
work her magic and photoshop various
died so 87% were online.”
opposite page.
pictures from our 1964 class Zoom meeting which was held on the 20th of June. Present
Jeannie (Walbridge) Blevins, KHC’65
Dodi Hornig, KHC’63
were: Andrea (Newman) Gordon, Ann
“I’ve sent along my KHC grad photo (1965)
“We had a ball! The weather the two full
(Stikeman) Garland, Andrea Jellicoe,
with the cartoon of me by Sara Peck Colby.
days we were in Tadoussac was perfect.
Julienne “Julie” (Clarke) Douglas,
(She was our class artist). There is also a
Had a great time whale-watching and
Elizabeth “Liz” Stikeman, Andrea
current photo of me.”
were so lucky as we saw a mom and baby
(Ross) O’Rourke, Barbara Monk, Cheryl
humpback, beluga, fin and two other types
(McDermid) Lumley, Wendy Rankin,
Margot (Grant) Kyle, KHC’65
plus porpoises. We saw a number of each
Betty Jane Punnett, Judith “Judi”
“I am back to swimming just over 1K along
which Anne says is unusual. We laughed,
(Fletcher) Dunn, Barbara (Little) Ring,
the shoreline here at the cottage every
giggled, gossiped, ate, drank and caught up.
Charlotte MacLatchy, Kathleen “Kathy”
day—my favourite activity. Though I don’t
Not sure what we can do for 2023 for our
Plow, Deborah “Debbie” (Gill) Cushing,
compete anymore, I had signed up to again
60th! The scarf is lovely and a great size so
and Susan “Suzie” (Graham) Wild.”
do the 3K Easter Seals ‘Bushtukah Bring
very versatile. I am not one to wear logos on
on the Bay Swim’ fundraiser in the Ottawa
Class Notes 18 Fall 2020 KHC Newsletter
Clockwise from above left: The KHC Class of 1967 celebrated 53 years together in Ottawa; In October, the KHC Class of 1968 celebrated their 51st class reunion in Toronto; Heather McAlpine, Heather Wyllie, Ann Rice, Betsy Johnston, and Felicity Smith, all of the Class of 1967, toasting to absent friends at their 50th reunion lunch at the Sea Glass Waterfront Grill; Brenda (Keddie) Sorley, KHC’56, and Gillian “Jill” Stainforth, KHC’65, connected by happenstance at a luncheon; Ladies of KHC Class of 1969 celebrated their 50th reunion last September.
River this summer which like so many other
and how KHC still remains an important part
events, had been cancelled.”
of BCS to this day. It was lovely to catch up
with each other at Fiona’s warm and inviting
with all of you—thank you for joining us!
home. A big thanks to her for hosting a
Gillian “Jill” Stainforth, KHC’65
It was wonderful to begin reconnecting
fabulous and yummy dinner which she and
Part way through a recent luncheon Jill and
KHC Class of 1968
Jeffie provided. BJ and Pam ensured that we
Brenda (Keddie) Sorley, KHC’56, who were
Submitted by Kathy (Winser) Robertson, KHC’68
didn’t miss dessert—Mr. Burt’s chocolate
sitting next to each other, discovered they
“For two days in October, 14 ladies of the
sauce is always a hit! Face-timing with Harps
were both KHC Old Girls. Small world!
KHC Class of 1968 reunited in Toronto to
(in New Zealand) was a bonus, the many
celebrate 51 years post-graduation. WOW—
bottles of vino….continuous laughter…
KHC Class of 1967
what a time and what a class we were (and
countless stories that only get better, reciting
In November, the KHC Class of 1967 gathered
are)! Several ladies live in Toronto or close
of Gilly’s sayings and some sort of rendition
in Ottawa to celebrate their
53rd
by and the rest of us drove, trained, or flew
of “40 Years On” (poor neighbours) WHAT A
Janet Turcot Vukovic was in attendance to
reunion.
in from the United Kingdom, Tennessee,
NIGHT!
present the ladies with their 50th anniversary
the Maritimes, Saskatchewan, Montreal,
scarves and to give an update on the school
Connecticut, and Seattle.
Oughtred chose a perfect place for lunch on Thursday and stories and laughter
19 Keep troth KHC Newsletter Fall 2020
we are experiencing today with self-isolation and what we experienced at the school when the War Measures Act that Pierre Trudeau invoked in 1970 as a result of political kidnappings by the FLQ in the province of Quebec. As a result of the War Measures Act and the many concerns with safety, the school was put in lock down mode from October to December and we weren’t allowed to leave campus. It is times like this that I learned more about self-reliance and the importance of friendships and school activities. Although over time these friendships have drifted apart, I still have fond school activity remembrances, such as: Mountain Climbing, Tea Dances at BCS, Above: Janus Fox, BCS’75, stopped in for a visit to BCS in October 2017, catching up with
Form Parties, BCS Carnival weekends, and
past KHC teacher, Mrs. Holland. Below: Twenty-one ladies from the Class of 1969 got to-
‘Sugaring-Off’ to name a few. These were
gether in North Hatley to celebrate 50 years since graduation.
great times. In October 2017 while on vacation, my
KHC Class of 1969
husband and I stopped in for a visit to BCS
Members of the Class of 1969 gathered in
where Susan Cook kindly took us on a tour
early September to celebrate their 50th
and I was able to sneak a peek at my old
reunion. Spearheaded by Margot (Graham)
room in the Gillard House residence. Susan
Heyerhoff, Rhona (Sewell) Halpern,
also arranged a meet up with Mrs. Holland
Deborah “Debbie” Hornig, and Jane
who taught me Spanish at KHC. It was a
Meagher, the ladies travelled from near and
wonderful reunion. Following that we went
far to reunite for a weekend of friendship,
over to Compton to see the old KHC building.
remembrance, and memory-making at
It was an enjoyable visit and so good to relive
Margot’s Gillygooly Farm. The weekend was
some fond memories of school days gone by.
full of activities and included a visit to King’s Hall, Compton and BCS.
Besides school roots in the Eastern Townships there is also some family history, so we plan to visit again. I would love to
Jane Meagher, KHC’69
reconnect with my former school mates
“It was a fun day and very interesting for
to reminisce and share stories and can be
the girls to visit BCS, especially some who
reached at janusmfox@gmail.com. In the
had never been since the school became
meantime, be well and stay safe.”
co-ed. Thanks for everything you did to help organize our weekend. Special moments, including Jean getting ready to serve 21 continued! Janet Turcot Vukovic, joined us
women who got together in North Hatley
to relay the news and updates regarding BCS
to celebrate 50 years since graduation from
and also what was happening with the KHC
high school at Kings Hall, Compton. I think
buildings. She also distributed the beautiful
everyone had a truly wonderful weekend and
KHC Old Girl scarves. KO and Steph K got
the scarves were really appreciated by all.”
the award for best way to wear them!! The bond created all those years ago
Janus Fox, BCS’75
certainly was rekindled during our few days
“I am living in Ottawa where I am retired
together. Here is to an inspiring group of
from my hectic career in the high-tech
women who not only WERE my classmates
industry. My focus now is covering off my
but also ARE my friends for making our 51st
adventure bucket list which unfortunately
Reunion such a memorable time.”
is temporarily on hold these days due to COVID-19. I find many similarities of what
20
From the archives KHC Newsletter Fall 2020
A year for the books by Merrylou Smith, Archivist COVID-19 was not the first disease
laughter is the best medicine and these
epidemic to wreak havoc in the lives of
girls did their best to lighten the burden
students. KHC students expressed their
of affliction. Here are some humourous
feelings about being infected with measles
reflections from the past about their
and mumps in yearbook entries. They say
experiences.
21
fare thee well KHC Newsletter Fall 2020 Alice (Ross) Aird, KHC’45
Foundation, the Bahamas Humane Society
school at Concordia University to attain her
December 31, 1928 – October 10, 2019
and Operation Potcake. It was a common
BA in Psychology and later with great pride
Alice Evelyn Aird (née Ross) Passed away
sight to see Kate driving around town
graduated with her M.Ed. in Counselling
peacefully after a long illness in the Avalon
throwing dog biscuits to the potcakes at
from McGill University. Barbara enjoyed a
Care Center in Orangeville, ON. She was
the side of the road or in the Super Value
career as a Professional Counsellor working
born in Quebec City on December 31, 1928,
parking lot. She loved to support local artists
for various school boards in the Montreal
the second child of Gordon and Kathleen
and musicians and helped revive the Jazz
area, recognized for her testing of youth
Ross. She moved to Montreal after high
scene in 2005 supporting bands like Jazz
to identify learning challenges, as well as
school and met Peter John Aird, BCS’44, the
etc. In 2015, Kate moved back to Montreal
being in private practice. In addition to her
love of her life. They married in 1951 and had
and this was an opportunity for the family’s
career, Barbara was involved with many
three children: Janet, Robert and Brian. She
fourth generation to spend time with the
boards and charitable organizations as
loved her family and was loved in return. She
“Kate” they had heard so much about. She
well as having a great love and talent for
worked hard to support Peter’s career. She
was independent, principled and above all
her many creative interests. Barbara was
found joy in tennis, bridge, travel, business
stubborn!! She was quick to help others but
predeceased by her beloved husband of
and politics, and she was an active volunteer
never accepted help herself. At an age when
52 years William J. Maclaren, her parents,
in the community. She had an abiding faith
most people would say “I’ve done my bit, let
her sister Phyllis Townley (Bruce), brother
in God. Alice is survived by her husband
someone else volunteer”, she was still going
Bud Hyman (Anne) and brother-in-law Jock
of 68 years; her three children, seven
down to Chez Doris women’s shelter, twice
Maclaren. She is survived and will be forever
grandchildren and eight greatgrandchildren;
a week, to serve lunches to between 60 - 80
cherished by her daughters, Heather (Ajay),
and her brother Robert Ross. She will be
women. Kate loved the outdoors, enjoying
Catherine, and Judith. She will be dearly
missed but the memories are strong and will
skeet shooting and fly fishing with her
missed by her brother Major David Hyman
continue living in the hearts of those whose
father. She returned regularly to the Godbout
(Helgard), sister-in-law Margaret Maclaren,
lives she touched. We thank Judy McCracken,
River to salmon fish with FS, Lucy, cousins
nine nieces and nephews, and seven great-
Candace Skinner, the Avalon, the Alzheimer
Stephen and the Rat. In skeet shooting she
nieces and nephews. Barbara will always
Society of Dufferin County, and the many
represented the Bahamas at the Canadian
be remembered for her beautiful spirit,
others who supported Alice through her long
Open in St. Janvier and in Puerto Rico. In the
devotion to family and friends, kindness,
and trying illness. In lieu of flowers, please
clay pigeon shooting sequence of the James
generosity, zest for life—including her
send donations to the Alzheimer Society.
Bond movie Thunderball in 1965, she was
Zsa Zsa ‘sparkle,’ sense of humour, that
the shooter making Sean Connery look like
wonderful twinkle in her eye, and her smile
Kate (Molson) Seiler, KHC’53
a pro.Kate made an impression wherever
which lit up everyone who encountered
– April 15, 2020
she went. She will be missed by so many
it. If so desired, memorial tributes may be
On April 15, 2020 Kate passed away at
friends and family for her joie de vivre, good
made to the Montreal General Hospital
home after a short battle with cancer. She
sense of humour and generous spirit. In lieu
Foundation. Condolences may be offered to
was the daughter of Clair (nee Jeffery) and
of flowers, donations can be made to Chez
mountroyalcem.com/index.php/en/online-
Stuart Molson and predeceased by her sister
Doris, www.chezdoris.org.
memorials.html.
Seiler. She will be missed by her nieces and
Barbara (Hyman) Maclaren, KHC’54
Leslie “Lali” (Kennedy) Jones, KHC’57
nephews Cindy (Ian) Derek, Peter (Micki) and
1936– May 8, 2020
March 7, 1940– January 2, 2019
Jill, great-nieces and nephews Jeffery (Dalida),
It is with great sadness that our beloved
Died suddenly at the age of 78 at the Jewish
Katie, Alex, Tory,
mother, Barbara C. Maclaren has passed
General Hospital. Mother, grandmother,
Lucy and husbands Stirling Moss and Don
away at the age of 83 on May 8, 2020 in
wife, sister, aunt, friend, artist, and educator,
Christian and Lance Seiler. Kate was a free
David and Nicolas as well as stepchildren
Montreal. Barbara was born and raised in
Lali wore many different hats. Her joyous
spirit and settled in Nassau spending the next
Gaspe, Quebec to Percival G. Hyman and
laugh and large smile lit up every room
60 years there fully embracing the culture
Mabel I. (Reynolds). She attended school at
she entered whether in Westmount, Saint-
and the people. Kate never sought praise or
King’s Hall, Compton and Bishop’s College
Adolphe, Morin Heights, Ste Agathe, or the
the spotlight for the acts of kindness she
before entering nursing school at the
many places she travelled. Lali is survived by
performed; some of the charities that she
Montreal General Hospital. After she married
her three daughters Jennifer (Tim Frantz),
supported were The Tara Xavier Hepburn
and had three daughters, she returned to
Meredith, Tamara (Tristan Barr), and her five
Fare Thee Well 22 Fall 2020 KHC Newsletter
grandchildren Samantha, Allison, Kirsten,
Hope at www.rossfuneralchapel.com. A
Phoenix, and Cora. She was predeceased by
celebration of life will be organized later in
her husband Dick and her beloved sisters
the summer.
Nan and Shirley. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Westben Arts Theatre
Jennifer Lois Byers, KHC’66
westben.ca/donate with “In Memory of Lali
December 18, 1950 – April 28, 2019
Jones” in the program line.
Jennifer Lois Byers, age 68, of Bowen Island, British Columbia passed away on Sunday
Caroline (Massey) McLimont, KHC’60
April 28, 2019. Jennifer was born December
April 4, 1946 – May 17, 2020
18, 1950. Fond memories and expressions of
Caroline Lillias Massey, aged 74, died
sympathy may be shared at www.MeM.com
peacefully in her sleep at Northumberland
for the Byers family.
Hills Hospital in Cobourg on May 17, 2020. Born in Birmingham, Alabama on April 4,
Patricia Ann “Pam” (Morgan) Candlish,
1946 to Melodie Frances Willis-O’Connor
KHC’66
and Roland Fields Crisson; she was adopted
June 18, 1949 – January 8, 2019
by her stepfather Hart Massey, architect and
She died peacefully in her home surrounded
son of Govenor General Vincent Massey after
by her loving family on January 8, 2019 after
Melodie and Hart were married in 1947. A
a long battle with Huntington’s Disease.
bon vivant with a gypsy spirit, she lived in
She was a strong, independent woman,
London, England and Trieste, Italy during
born in Montreal, Quebec June 18, 1949 to
the sixties, before opening her high-end
Ivy Senkler and Dr. George Morgan. Pam
fashion store, Justine, in Ottawa. After a
is survived by her husband of 46 Years,
decade of dressing many of Ottawa’s finest,
Ross, her four children Tiffany, Barbara
including Margaret Trudeau, Caroline moved
(Keith), William (Melissa), and Reid (Bonnie).
to Toronto where she became a commercial
She will always be remembered by her
wardrobe stylist working on advertising
three grandchildren: Jonathan, Erica, and
campaigns, music videos and television
Roberta. Pam was predeceased by her
shows. Much in demand, she was known as
sisters Mary-Jean (Hugh), Joan, and her
Princess Carolina within the industry. She
brother Bob Morgan. A graduate of McGill
knew how to make clothes look right for
University, Pam earned a Master’s Degree
her clients who delighted in being dressed
in Library Sciences. Pam was an author,
by her. But most of all Caroline loved the
teacher, webmaster, artist, environmentalist,
company of others. She was a fabulous
gardener, photographer, cancer survivor,
cook, threw many glamorous and often
and an accomplished musician. She loved
wild parties, loved fun and laughter and
dogs, chocolate, coffee, and had a legendary
cared deeply about her friends. She was
passion for road trips. In lieu of flowers,
never happier than after having cooked a
please send donations to the Huntington
superb meal, accompanied by lots of wine,
Society at huntingtonsociety.ca.
when she was able to kick back with a Flaming Sambuca and really enjoy those dearest to her. As her energy diminished and working as a stylist in Toronto became too demanding, she retired to Port Hope. Although her life in a small Ontario town was far less boisterous, she remained, with her big hair, brightly polished nails and her storied past, La Princesse. She is survived by her brother, the artist, John Massey, her beloved cat Kung Foo and the enduring love of her many friends. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Northumberland Humane Society in Port
How to contact us: alumni@bishopscollegeschool.com
819.566.0227 x253
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Honouring your stories to build a stronger future You can help us preserve the KHC legacy for future generations King’s Hall, Compton was more than a
But we can’t do it alone! We would love
school. It was a community of caring
to hear your stories about your time at
teachers, dedicated staff, and inquisitive
KHC and learn about the memories you
students who built its rich history. Today,
hold dear. Whether it’s a story about order
the legacy of that history lives on at
marks, French class with Mlle Cailteux,
Bishop’s College School.
or the infamous ‘croc walks,’ we want
As part of an initiative in our Alumni
to hear it all. To find out how you can
Office, we want to celebrate the stories of
share your story with us, please email
our alumni, starting with our KHC girls, in an
alumni@bishopscollegeschool.com or call
ongoing effort to build the body of archival
819.566.0227 x253.
materials about life at KHC and BCS.
Photos and stories from King’s Hall, Compton will serve as an important reminder of our school’s history.
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