The Portal, Volume 26, The Advancement Edition

T he Meliora Petens

T H E ADVANCE M E NT E D I T I ON VOLU M E 26

A PU BL I CAT I ON OF BAL M ORAL H AL L SCH OOL

PUBLISHER Tina Alto, Executive Director EDITORS Genevieve Cloutier ’03, Alumnae Relations Coordinator Jennifer Pawluk, Communications Specialist

THE ADVANCEMENT EDITION

CONTRIBUTORS Joy Loewen, Chair of Board of Governors Nancy Cipryk ’86, Alumnae Association President Joanne Kamins, Head of School Lyn Stephen ’57, School Archivist Amanda Kostyk, Advancement Assistant

VOLUME 26 SPRING 2016

BALMORAL HALL SCHOOL 630 Westminster Ave. Winnipeg MB R3C 3S1 (204) 784-1600 balmoralhall.com alumnae@balmoralhall.com

CONTENTS

04 Mary (Mathers) Shelton RIV Gr. 11 ’47 LIFELONG LEARNING

MY LEGACY

Erin (Palmer) Webber ’00

12

ROOTS AND WINGS

Claudia Müller Morán ’07

SUPPORTING GIRLS OF PROMISE

Marcia A. (Jackson) Boyd ’64

07

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The Portal is published yearly for Balmoral Hall School’s community by its Alumnae and Communications offices. Information herein may not be reproduced without permission. Views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect those of Balmoral Hall School.

Canada Post Publications Mail Agreement No. 40017087

03

Message from Board of Governors

04

A journey of lifelong learning

06

A significant investment

07

The gift of roots and wings

10

Tidings from Class of 1966

11

Class of 2016: Lifers

12

My Legacy

14

Supporting girls of promise

16

Crestlines

18

In Memoriam

21

Balmoral Hall remembers

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The Last Word

M E S S AG E F R O M O U R B OA R D

O

ur daughter, Lia, was two years old when my husband and I accepted a friend’s invitation to attend an open house at Balmoral Hall School.

Coming through the front doors we were warmly greeted in the atrium by friendly staff and smartly dressed students who reminded me of the articulate and confident girls I met years earlier as an employee at Women’s Television Network (WTN).

Based on my WTN experience, I believe that girls working together can create and do infinitely remarkable things.

Balmoral Hall is an incubator of talent, nurturing unique abilities and competencies in our girls, providing opportunities they would not otherwise have, and empowering them to realize and achieve their full potential.

The faculty, administrators, and staff do an admirable job each day to encourage, inspire, and help these young girls to become confident women. Their work and efforts motivate me to do the same. As a parent, my first volunteer role was co-chairing Yahoo BBQ — the annual back-to-school community event. Building community is a rewarding and satisfying experience that in my case has led to further involvement with Balmoral Hall Parent Association, Annual Fund campaigns, and now governance. As Chair of your Board of Governors, my motivation to seek better things remains unchanged.

I treasure and am grateful for the contributions of all who commit themselves to inspiring girls like Lia to excel, to reach, and to lead.

Together, we advance girls’ education.

Joy Loewen Chair, Board of Governors

BOARD OF GOVERNORS MRS. JOY LOEWEN, CHAIR MR. JIM PERCHALUK, PAST CHAIR DR. MICHAELA BURLEY, PARENT ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT MS NANCY CIPRYK ’86, ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT MR. ALLAN DUBYTS MRS. KELLY GASMEN MR. TYLER GOMPF MR. MATTHEW GUBERMAN MR. CHRIS ISFORD MR. BRUCE KING MRS. CHRISTINE PAVAGADHI MS JOAN (RANKIN) RICHARDSON ’69 MRS. LAURA (LEMON) WETTON ’03 MRS. JOANNE KAMINS, HEAD OF SCHOOL (EX OFFICIO) MRS. TRISH DEL GROSSO STEEDS, EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT TO HEAD AND BOARD

A journey of lifelong learning

By Mary (Mathers) Shelton RIV Gr. 11 ’47

I

Mary Mathers class of ‘47

t is said that everyone should have a passion; mine is words.

Words reflect cultural values, and they either bring people together or tear them apart.

I was a lifer at Riverbend, attending the school from 1934 to 1947, and during those years my teachers showed me the power of speech, reading, and writing in English, French, and Latin. Even in Kindergarten, we were introduced to our bilingual Canadian heritage through song. French was a constant, and it became a favoured subject.

Naturally, I chose a special language program at United College after receiving an Ashdown scholarship in 1947. I had to petition the senate to allow me to study English, French, and German, as well as Latin (my best subject). I later supplemented this course of study with a second Bachelor

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of Arts in classical Greek from University of Victoria in the early 1990s. These two tongues, in particular, showed me the origins of English and French words, inspiring curiosity, learning, and eventually travel.

I believe you cannot truly learn a language without living where it is spoken. I attended three French summer schools during my university studies: TroisPistoles and McGill in Québec as well as Middlebury in Vermont, the latter of which was recommended by my thesis advisor at Smith College.

The Principal of United College, Dr. W.C. Graham, had suggested that I apply to several prestigious American colleges; Smith, which I attended on scholarship from 1951-53, seemed best at the time.

I completed a Master of Arts in French while learning a lot about American culture.

I had spent most of my life learning French, but having never been to France I applied to Éducation nationale de France as an “assistante d’anglais”. I spent two years there (1953–55), first in Paris, then in Marseille, as a minor civil servant teaching French girls English.

“A learned woman always possesses riches inside herself.“ George and I wanted to adopt children, but we preferred to do so in Canada. We returned home in the mid-1960s, and, by great luck, George was hired as a history professor at Victoria College; about to become University of Victoria. Then, we adopted two babies successively, later giving birth to a son.

While lecturing in French at UVic for nearly 20 years, I also earned accreditation at University of British Columbia as a French-to-English translator.

By the end of 1953, my French was so fluent that I even hesitated in speaking English to my father when he came to accompany me home. Although I earned only $90 a month, I managed to travel to England, Germany, Greece, Italy, and Spain in addition to other parts of France, where I made lifelong friends.

While learning much from this experience, I discovered that I truly love teaching!

On my return to Winnipeg, I was hired by my alma mater, United College; soon to become the University of Winnipeg.

This was a fruitful period (1955–57) for honing my teaching skills. Then came marriage, and I returned to the United States as my husband, W. George Shelton, was working on his Ph.D. in Philadelphia. He later taught at a small college in Dubuque, Iowa. In the three years we lived there, I earned a teaching certificate, worked in retail, and served as an adoption social worker.

Like me, George loved travelling, so we eventually visited France, Russia, most Middle Eastern countries, Morocco, many South American countries, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and China.

We also enjoyed two sabbatical years in England. Indeed, little of the subsequent learning from our “global village” could have occurred without ... words!

My husband died in 2007, and I now live in a pleasant seniors’ residence in beloved Victoria. Recently, I have been participating in a four-year seminar with philosophical and theological themes.

Fascinating discussions really keep one’s mind alive!

I am grateful for this very rich life, acquired through curiosity, learning, and travel; I owe it all to my passion for words.

A Roman aphorism says: Femina docta in se semper divitas habet.

“A learned woman always possesses riches inside herself.”

May all BH girls achieve this.



Photo by TRISH NEAL THE PORTAL – SPRING 2016

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A significant investment

By Jennifer Pawluk

R

ecently, I contacted Mr. Brian Porter to inquire about an alumna I had met, Jean Chen ’95. During a visit to her alma mater last winter, I had the pleasure of interviewing her for this edition of The Portal. She spoke highly of her experience as an international boarding student, and I wished to learn more about her.

“Jean Chen ’95 was a committed, focused, and conscientious student; she tried her best, and most times she succeeded,” says Mr. Porter, Head of School from 1989 to 1995. “When she came to Canada she was young, somewhat shy, and quiet, but she soon became a more confident, enthusiastic, and genuine BH girl. We all know that BH girls grow up to enjoy happy, successful lives — just as Jean does now!”

After graduating from Balmoral Hall School, she obtained a Bachelor of Commerce in Management Information Systems from University of Manitoba, completing an exchange in Tokyo during her fourth year of study. This led to opportunities in Silicon Valley during the dot-com bubble, and then she moved to the company’s Asian-Pacific headquarters in Singapore.

Eventually, she was asked to join her CEO’s new business venture in China. While in Shanghai, she decided to re-enter the information technology industry by establishing a start-up in e-commerce.

Jean Chen class of ‘95

“Once you have a little bit of success, you start to think about significance,” Jean reflects.

“We want to make ourselves feel good by being successful, but the most success you can have is to invest in others. I experience such joy (when I invest in someone). That is the most valuable investment to have.”

A proud graduate of Balmoral Hall School, she continues to be driven by the values she inherited from Mr. Porter, Mrs. Bev Tytgat, former front office manager, and others who believed in her.

Jennifer Pawluk is a Communications Specialist at Balmoral Hall School. 

“My childhood dream was to be a businesswoman,” shares Jean.

However, her 18-hour daily schedule led to extreme burnout, including a bout of pneumonia, and so she divested all interest in her company. She credits the kindness, love, and support she received at Balmoral Hall with inspiring her to pursue her passion for consulting. She has since pursued Master’s studies in sustainability strategic planning, as well as leadership training and development.

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Jean Chen '95 recently visited Balmoral Hall School with Mrs. Bev Tytgat, a former front office manager, whom she stayed with in Winnipeg.

The gift of roots and wings

By Claudia Müller Morán ’07

For the past two years, Claudia Müller Morán ’07 has been living in Spain, teaching English, and completing a Master of Business Administration. As such, she has had opportunities to travel throughout Europe. On her list of destinations was Scotland (beyond Edinburgh, which she had visited as a teenager), and so in March 2016 she decided to travel from Leeds, England to Aberdeen, Scotland by train.

“I wanted to see the places where Balmoral Hall School and its Houses have roots,” Claudia shares. “As most know, the school is named after Balmoral castle in Aberdeenshire. Needless to say, it was incredible to see the names of my House and my friend’s Houses everywhere.”

What follows is a first-person account of her Aberdeenshire visit on March 23, 2016.

I know a local who was more than willing to spend a day driving through the Highlands, so we set out for Deeside. Ballater and Braemar were easiest to find, as these small towns are located near Balmoral castle along

Claudia Müller Morán class of ‘07

River Dee. A knowledgeable woman at the tourist information office next to the castle informed us that Craig Gowan, a knowe (knoll), is located on castle grounds, which would not open until the following weekend. Glen Gairn, she happily shared, is north of the castle. Slightly crushed, I took pictures of the only part of the castle I could reach: its main gates.

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Ballater was our fir st stop from east to west. River Dee actually runs throug h the south of town, and, as it floods at times, a lot of sh ops were closed be cause of flooding in early March. W he n Q ueen Victoria and Prince Albert purchased Balmor al castle in 1848, B al later was the local supplier and servic e centre; as such, m an y shops feature the royal coat of ar ms.

Continued at right

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azing on the n, and we saw animals gr air G r ve Ri ng alo e ov al dr Next, we by far the best at Balmor is se ou H n air G len G take a surrounding land. it was imperative that I so d an r, ate m a alm y an hour Hall School, m all! We drove for nearly at re he yw an — n sig a picture with Church and t we arrived at Glengairn las at d an e, on d . fin to trying them where I was exactly ed ask I rs. ke hi ree th et Gairn School. There, we m y, “Why, you’re in Glen dl ou pr d, sai , an sm ot Sc sh wife.

One of them, a barrassment of his Engli em e th to ” n! gle ul tif au … most be ese Brits was , laughed. Talking with th an hm els W a , on ni . pa m His co ister of Glengairn Church in m t las e th of n so e th a highpoint; I met THE PORTAL – SPRING 2016

Continued at right ...

...

Ballater railway station, which the green House is named after, was destroyed in a fire last year, but it has been rebuilt as a visitor centre.

Braemar, the blue House, is named after a parish with a castle (pictured here). The town itself is a bit hilly compared to Ballater. I noticed that many shops sell handmade things.

Continued at far left ...

Also, I learned that the gre at, great, great-grandson of one of the teachers of Glengairn School is Canadian. However, the be st part of visiting Glen Gairn was seeing Teapot Cottage near the river.

Though it has no electricity, running water, etc. the royal family sti ll stays there from time to time!

I cannot believe I finally visite d all these places connected to Balmoral Hall; it was so exciting that I continuously messaged my sis ters, Ericka (Class of 2012) and Lexy (Clas s of 2015), as I learned each fac t or took yet another picture! ď Ž

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TIDINGS FROM CLASS OF 1966 The Alumnae Office collected the following in advance of the upcoming 50-year reunion in September.

Onalee (Hawkins) Ames ’86 Jill Condra ’86

CLASS OF 1986 30-YEAR REUNION “Thirty years have gone by, and it felt like five minutes,” said Nancy Cipryk ’86, who is Balmoral Hall School’s Alumnae Association President. “We reminisced as we enjoyed an amazing weekend with lifelong friends!”

On April 15, 2016, Balmoral Hall School Class of 1986 began their reunion weekend celebrations with a wine and cheese on campus.

Many in attendance had not previously returned to the school since the day they graduated, and a lot has changed. Others had not connected since their teenage years, and the reunion between friends as well as teachers and staff was memorable.

We organized a school tour, showing them familiar places, such as the Junior School gymnasium, in addition to the unfamiliar atrium, Sifton Family Theatre, boarding facilities, science labs, and more.

We ended the evening in Aikins House, flipping through yearbooks while reminiscing about the times passed. It was incredible!

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Many thanks to Susan Bracken ’66, who has planned tours of Balmoral Hall School, as well as Canadian Museum for Human Rights, Journey to Churchill at Assiniboine Park Conservancy, FortWhyte Alive, and more. Of course, most important of all, there will be lots of visiting. A class book is planned also.

As now is the time to celebrate this heritage, we are excited to share these classmates’ stories.

Looking forward to seeing everyone in September 2016, and a big bouquet to Susan for once again getting us all together! ~ Teddi (Wheeler) Sweatman ’66 It will be wonderful to reconnect with classmates from 50 years ago! Of course, life has changed. I have lived in Vancouver since 1980, and love it here. Our two daughters are here, and since we are retired we have time to enjoy being the grandparents of two grandchildren. ~ Sally (Spohn) Zaplatynsky ’66 Looking forward to seeing everybody although I find it difficult to believe it has been 50 years since we graduated.

I am now a retired marketing researcher, spending my time exactly as I wish with my three children and three grandchildren (ages five, three, and two). I am on three non-

profit boards, take some classes at the university, and travel with my husband of 46 years who is still working. ~ Trish (Johnston) Simmie ’66 My husband and I live in West Kelowna, BC, and now we are unable to attend the reunion. Some of my cousins still live in the Winnipeg area.

I had looked forward to seeing my former classmates this fall with best wishes to all! One of my dearest friends, classmate Rosemary Condo, died in a tragic car accident many years ago. Her father was a professor of mathematics at University of Manitoba, and mine was an Anglican clergyman. I was failing in scriptures, and Rosemary was not doing well in math, so our fathers decided they should tutor the other’s daughter. I am not sure that ever happened, but we had lots of laughs about it; we both graduated after all. ~ Mary (Bethel) Verigin ’66

A Winnipeg-based writer, arts consultant, and professor of curatorial practice, I am now Winnipeg Art Gallery’s Director Emerita (and former director of Art Gallery of Greater Victoria).

These experiences, along with my role as Chair, Board of Governors, University of Manitoba, have heightened my concern for cross-societal understanding of the benefits of the arts. My research, as well as work at Buhler Gallery, continue to underline those tangible benefits. After all, it is the arts in all disciplines that express who we are as individuals, our souls, and the soul of our communities! ~ Patricia (Glover) Bovey ’66 SASKATOON ALUMNAE RECEPTION July 10 at 11 a.m.

The James Hotel (620 Spadina Cres. E.) We are pleased to be joined by special guest Mrs. Terry Fulton Baillie.

RSVP to alumnae@balmoralhall.com or (204) 784-1616.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CLASS OF 2016!

Meet a few of our graduates. These six girls have the opportunity to attend a new school this fall for the first time since Junior Kindergarten, Kindergarten, or Grade 1. As lifers, they have spent their formative years seeking better things. Now, they eagerly await post-secondary studies at universities of choice. On behalf of Balmoral Hall School, all our best!

Daniella Daumler  Alexandra Chubaty Boychuk  Sara Ali  Paris Musaphir  Chloe Balog  Kim Hurst 

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Erin Palmer class of ‘00

My Legacy

By Erin (Palmer) Webber ’00

A

fter graduating from university I had the opportunity to be part of the management team that brought lululemon to Winnipeg.

The athletic wear retailer believes strongly in the power of goalsetting. Therefore, I set out to define my own goals. My one-year goals were essentially an advanced “to-do” list, whereas setting 10-year goals created an opportunity to visualize a dream for the future.

Having grown up going to the lake, I knew that a cottage would be an important part of my future once I had a family of my own. Thus, I wrote my first 10-year goal: Own a cottage. Statistics indicate people are 92% more likely to accomplish a goal if it is written down, and in my experience this is true!

Within a year of defining my goals, I became a first-time property owner of a cottage through the offer of a family friend.

MyLegacy 12

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Without a husband or any children, I wrote a will at age 24 by considering what is important to leave behind when I die. I asked myself: Who can I help? What can be done with my assets? An only child, my extended family grew from my time at Balmoral Hall, and as a lifer the school was always my second home.

Deciding to give back to the educational institution that laid the foundation of who I was to become, I wrote Balmoral Hall School into my will. Now, 10 years later, I am married and a new mother. I have since rewritten my will, and Balmoral Hall continues to be a beneficiary.

I have chosen to support The Alumnae Future Generations Fund; it is my hope that children of alumnae will continue to benefit from the educational experience their mothers enjoyed as BH girls. 

Meliora Petens

Legacy Society

this world does not exist without you.

A charitable bequest to Balmoral Hall School is a pen with which you write a timeless story of who you are, what you believe in, and why.

How will you leave your mark?

Let’s inspire girls to excel, to reach, and to lead forevermore.

The Meliora Petens Legacy Society includes those who have named Balmoral Hall School as the beneficiary of an estate gift.

Estate of Sir James Aikins Estate of Ruby (Benidickson) Ashdown RIV ’39 Heather Joanne (Brodie) Melidones ’65 Estate of Sherry (Carruthers) Fleming RIV ’43 Estate of Lucille Cubbidge RLS Gr. 11 ’34 Carolyn (Dowler) Graham RIV ’48 Estate of Betty (Foster) Wilcox RLS Gr.11 ’33 Estate of Valerie Halland RLS ’48 Susan (Harris) Foster Gr. 11 ’63 Dr. Marcia (Jackson) Boyd ’64 Colleen McGuinness ’66 Betty-Lou (McPhail) Phillips Gr. 11 ’54 Estate of Jennifer R. McQueen RLS Gr. 11 ’47 Deborah Metcalfe ’76 Alan & Corrine Scott (Parents of Graduate) Ron Walpole & Linda Graham (Grandparents) Erin (Palmer) Webber ’00

BALMORAL HALL SCHOOL MELIORA PETENS LEGACY SOCIETY 630 Westminster Ave. Winnipeg MB R3C 3S1 (204) 784-1600 legacy@balmoralhall.com www.balmoralhall.com/legacy THE PORTAL – SPRING 2016

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Supporting girls of promise

By Executive Director Tina Alto

W

hen is the right time to make a bequest? Too often I encounter someone who has yet to make a will let alone consider a bequest. Whenever I present on Balmoral Hall School’s behalf to alumnae, parents, grandparents, staff, and friends, I share the importance of a will.

Then, opportunities to increase financial support for BH girls can be discussed.

Ensuring that Balmoral Hall School is well positioned to meet the future needs of girls of promise is why we continue to have a series of conversations about how, through your legacy, you have the potential to change a girl’s life for the better.

Dean and Professor Emerita, Faculty of Dentistry, University of British Columbia.

Departing from private practice in 2012, she continues to do contract work world-

To further this dialogue, we are asking members of the BH family: “Will you support girls of promise with a charitable bequest?”

I am encouraged that more and more are answering with “I already have.”

Such was the response of Marcia A. ( Jackson) Boyd ’64, whom I visited recently in Vancouver. She has been active in dental education internationally for more than 30 years, including as former

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MARCIA A. (JACKSON) BOYD ’64

wide as a consultant, examiner, and more.

Most recently, she was admitted to the Order of Canada.

“Balmoral Hall School provided a special opportunity for me at a time of family turmoil. Staff and students were warm, welcoming, and even embracing as I enrolled in January of Grade 11. It lifted me above everyday challenges, providing a platform for my hard work with a focus on passion for future success.

“I count myself fortunate for that opportunity, as it would never have been available to me otherwise given my family’s financial circumstances. Therefore, I have always been an annual donor in hope of assisting girls who may need ‘a little extra.’

I cannot deny that BH had a significant impact — my education, my leadership (as School Captain), and my continuing friendship with former classmates. How very special a treasure is that? My friend Donna (Nesbitt) Kirisits ’64 and I have been friends since 1962, and we visit regularly now that she resides in British Columbia. Giving back is something to which I have committed not only to my alma mater, but also to other organizations.

Marcia A. Jackson class of ‘64 “Not knowing what my estate will consist of, or how long my ‘visit’ will be on this Earth, rather than identifying an amount I have designated a percentage of my lasting estate to Balmoral Hall School for discretionary use. It certainly makes me feel good. It will feel good to you, too!

Please help girls become the individuals they deserve to be as they discover the difference they can make in this world.”

More than 15% of BH girls receive up to 50% tuition relief through financial aid, and our greatest challenge is that without substantial endowment Balmoral Hall School must find annual donors to support them. Endowment provides a sustainable source of funding for girls of promise. BH girls must be afforded the opportunity to reach their full potential – as Marcia has.

“Every time I am with my daughter, Megan Kozminski ’94, I am reminded how confident, articulate, and determined these young women (BH girls) are, and it is a blessing,” R.M. (Bob) Kozminski remarked to those gathered. “Balmoral Hall School has this tremendous history

thanks to the involvement of families who are instrumental in having an impact.

Let’s keep adding to it.” 

We are grateful to all those who have pledged their support.

Indeed, a proud tradition of support is woven into the very fabric of our school community, as demonstrated most recently at an on-campus luncheon with former governors in May 2016.

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Crestlines 1960s

SYDNEY KENNEDY ’68

SHAUNA LABMAN ’95

After 35 years, I returned to Winnipeg for the wedding of Hayley Alfonso ’04, daughter of Patty (Powell) Alfonso ’68, at their beautiful farm in St. Andrews. I spent two days touring my old haunts in Winnipeg, and I had so much fun talking to strangers who were of course friendly! I had a special tour of the school with Genevieve Cloutier ’03 that I highly recommend to alumnae! Those of you around in the 60s will know what I mean when I say that I had a shocking déjà vu moment as we walked into the corridor under Aikins House to prayers: Miss Murrell Wright leading the way, cape flying out, tiny little ankles, and pointy-toed heels, saying “I hear a voice.” It was delightful, and I thought of all of you!

I have been back in Winnipeg for six years now, and I am an assistant professor, Faculty of Law, at University of Manitoba. This year I was named one of CBC Manitoba’s Future 40 for my advocacy and research in refugee re-settlement. My daughter Yael was born in November 2014, and my son Hugo is almost 5 (starting Kindergarten in the fall).

1980s VALERIE (TERNAN) TIH ’89 My home life while I was at school was very challenging. The teachers really took me under their wing. I’m certain it’s because of their kindness that I became Head Girl & Valedictorian, and I went on to give my best effort to make a positive difference in the world. I was once told: “What we do not receive becomes our gift to give the world.” I have founded and participated in many charitable organizations. Now I help families find happiness and peace in their homes.

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1990s

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AINSLEY DONALD ’98 I had the honour of working alongside other alumnae Andi Sharma ’03 and Baillie (Klein) Chisick ’04 in the inaugural Fast Pitch Winnipeg program, an initiative of The Winnipeg Foundation, supporting Winnipeg’s charitable sector.

I am passionate about charity in our city because of great organizations that benefit from those who are able to donate time and finances to these important programs. This was a unique volunteer experience in that I had the opportunity to work exclusively with the executive director of a local charity to learn about their challenges as well as strategies to make Winnipeg a better city.

This, and my role as member of the board of trustees (as vice-chair of the finance and administration committee) of United Way Winnipeg, would not have happened without the support of my employer, Grant Thornton LLP, in volunteering for organizations that make Winnipeg a better place. I am a senior manager working with local businesses to tell their success stories from a financial perspective. I am lucky to have had the experience of being a chartered accountant working with local businesses for the past 12 years.

2010s

2000s ERIN (PALMER) WEBBER ’00 On February 16, we welcomed our first little bundle to the family!

James Douglas Webber, named after his grandfathers, is the first grandchild on both sides. I have included a photo of him representing Ballater pride; although he cannot attend the school, I know he will always be an extension of the BH family!

TAYISA PETRYSHYN ’00 I am happy to announce the birth of my daughter Bianca, our first child, on February 18 in Ottawa, weighing 6 lbs. 7 oz. My husband, Damian Snih, and I were married October 11, 2014 in Winnipeg where we were fortunate to have a few alumnae in attendance. I am currently enjoying maternity leave as manager of international procurement at (recently renamed) Global Affairs Canada, and I look forward to this first year of motherhood!

NIKITA (DUNCAN) COULOMBE ’04 I attended the school for grades 1 to 3, moved to Boulder, CO in 1995, and graduated from University of Colorado with a double major in fine arts and psychology in 2008. I then moved to San Francisco, working closely with world renowned social psychologist Dr. Philip Zimbardo for several years. Currently, I reside in Sonoma where I continue to build upon my career as a writer and artist. Most recently, Dr. Zimbardo and I co-authored Man Interrupted, which is published in 11 countries.

KYLA (CANERS) SCHOFIELD ’04 Since graduating, I completed my B.Sc. and my M.D. at University of Manitoba. I have spent the last five years at McMaster University completing my residency training in emergency medicine. With graduation at the end of June, I look forward to (finally) finishing my schooling! I will be staying in Hamilton to practise in both general emergency departments as well as the pediatric emergency department. During my residency, I was able to take the lead in developing a simulation training program for residents. The plan is to stay actively involved in resident teaching, further developing this curriculum. This year, I am also celebrating three years of marriage to my wonderful husband, James.

CAILEY HAY ’11 I am currently finishing my last year of undergrad and hockey at University of British Columbia.

I will graduate from Arts with a major in sociology and a minor in family studies. UBC Thunderbirds are the 2015/16 Canada West champions, and we competed for the national title at CIS Championships in Calgary.

JING LIN (ANNIE) LUO ’15 I have just finished my first year at University of Toronto. Some friends and I organized a classical concert on campus in January with a fusion of Western and Eastern music. We invited pianist Ricker Choi (an internationally renowned artist), Young Voice Toronto, Toronto Chinese Orchestra, as well as many Toronto-based indie composers and musicians to perform. It was a success!

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In Memoriam 1930s

BARBARA (KING) PHELOUNG RIV GR. 11 ’41

DOSSIE (MACLEAN) HARRISON RIV GR. 11 ’36

Barbara passed away March 3, 2015.

Her work in the field of learning disabilities has helped thousands, and it will continue to do so through those she has inspired.

Dossie passed away peacefully at Victoria General Hospital on November 19. Dossie attended Riverbend School, followed by University of Manitoba, where she completed her education degree.

She was a member of Westminster United Church. She completed an oral history of Winnipeg Beach for the provincial archives with her dear friend Dora (Marchant) Carpenter RIV Gr. 11 ’36.

1940s SHIRLEY LUSH RIV GR. 11 ’41 Shirley passed away suddenly on August 8 at St. Boniface Hospital.

Shirley is survived by her sister Marjorie (Lush) Eckert RIV Gr. 11 ’49. For many years, Shirley was an active volunteer in the community.

Any spare time was spent on the golf course. As a long-time member of St. Charles Country Club, she served its membership in many leadership roles.

MARGARET (STOVEL) SMITH RLS GR. 11 ’41 Margaret passed away in October.

The Alumnae Office was unable to locate an obituary.

Please contact (204) 784-1616 or alumnae@balmoralhall.com with any information.

SHIRLEY (MANNESS) COLE RIV GR. 11 ’44 Shirley passed away on February 10 at home in Domain. Along with farm and family work, she continued the legacy of her father with a lifelong dedication to the Domain community and Avonlea United Church, where she was the choir director for 25 years. She will be remembered for her gardening, love of fashion, and family gatherings.

JANE (GRIMBLE) PHILIPS RLS ’44

By Martha (Grimble) Innes RLS ’46

Jane passed away in Gimli on August 7. She was one of four Grimble sisters who attended RLS at the same 18

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time in the ’40s. Jane lived most of her married life on a farm near Gimli.

Her husband had horses, and she loved working in her gardens there as well as walking on the trails through the woods. She was a lifetime member of Gimli Hospital Auxiliary.

She had three daughters and three grandchildren.

BARBARA (HALLS) CANNELL RIV GR. 11 ’46 Barbara passed away on September 3. Born in Winnipeg, she attended University of Manitoba, department of interior design, in 1950. Barb loved entertaining. She was an active Junior League member and was a talented artist contributing to her success as fashion model and editor for Winnipeg Tribune. A wonderful friend and a mentor to many young women who still regard her as “Aunty Barb.”

DAPHNE (GRAHAM) WILLIAMS RLS ’46

By Martha (Grimble) Innes RLS ’46

Daphne passed away in January.

After graduating she worked for Hudson’s Bay then moved to Toronto, sharing an apartment with me, while working for Liberty Mutual. When I married, she moved back to Winnipeg to work for TCA (Air Canada). She married Norman Williams, and they lived in various places, mostly Hamilton, before retiring in Victoria.

BEVERLY-ANN (LAIDLAW) SCOTT RIV GR. 11 ’47 Beverly-Ann passed away April 11, 2015 after a challenging struggle with dementia. Bev attended University of Manitoba where she studied interior design. After university, she worked at T. Eaton Co. as assistant fashion coordinator.

She was involved with her church, many organizations, and politics.

VALERIE HALLAND RLS ’48 Meliora Petens Legacy Society Donor

Valerie passed away on February 4 at the age of 86 in UK. Valerie was a war guest at Rupert’s Land School. Both her father and maternal grandfather were very distinguished soldiers serving in India. Valerie’s father, Colonel Gordon Herbert Ramsay Halland, travelled from Montreal to Southampton on September 16, 1938. On the same boat were Marion McDonald RLS Gr. 11 ’34, aged 48, with her daughter Elizabeth, aged 17. Valerie herself travelled to Canada on July 17, 1940, aged 10, from Liverpool; she stayed with The MacDonald Family, returning to UK November 10, 1944, aged 14. A competent linguist, Valerie may have been contracted to London’s Foreign Office post-war. She was also known to be a very able horsewoman, a skill allegedly gained in Canada.

Valerie herself claimed to have been in many intriguing situations involving MI5, GCHQ, Bletchley Park, the lost Russian princesses, presentation to court as a debutante, and more. Valerie has no family, and she has kept connected to her alma mater in Winnipeg for decades. As a member of Meliora Petens Legacy Society, her memory will live on at Balmoral Hall School through a bequest.

graduate of the universities of Toronto and Manitoba. A talented pianist, she had a distinguished career of more than 30 years as a music and French teacher.

Throughout her life, Diane was a devout Anglican and an active member of St. John’s Anglican Church.

CAROLYN ANN (WARNER) KELL RLS GR. 11 ’48

From Joey Adamson ’52

On August 20, Carolyn Ann passed away in the comfort of her own home. Predeceased by her daughter, Mary Schweizer. Carolyn was diagnosed with polio, a debilitating condition, at 19 years of age, but the fighter that she was beat the odds to live a long life.

SHANNON (HALL) MCCORQUODALE RLS ’49 Shannon passed away at her home in Toronto on March 22, 2014 at the age of 82. She had a long and successful career in social work, retiring as the registrar of College of Certified Social Workers (Ontario).

1950s DIANE (GRINDLEY) HARDWICK ’56 Diane passed away on June 29 in Barrie, Ont. after a lengthy battle with heart disease. Diane was a

JOY MCDIARMID GR. 11 ’56 Being a wordsmith all her life, Joy wrote the following: “Quietly and filled with love I went into the morning light of September 11. I was blessed by my partner, Josephine, with whom I lived a rich life for nearly 20 years, 14 of them in the forest of Victoria Beach. I had a varied career: marketing executive, audio producer of support tapes for cancer patients (‘Voices in the Night’), and 10 years of highly satisfying work at University of Winnipeg. While most of my life was working with words, I often engaged in my two favorite sports, tennis and golf. I was also an avid photographer. The richness of my life at Victoria Beach was due to my summers spent with my grandmother Lou Little and my lifelong friend Kitson Vincent and his family. I am forever grateful. I also give thanks to Joey’s family Christopher and Andrew Ainley and her daughter Susan Tuttle for the affection and support over the years. Throughout the years ‘The Fearless Five’ have been my steadfast friends. Goodbye to you all with my love.”

CAROL-ANNE BATE ’57 Carol-Anne passed away on February 21. As a long-time genealogist and membership registrar for Ardoch Algonquin Band, she was happy when her hard work answered family mysteries; enabling her to document someone’s right to carry a band card. Carol-Anne had a fierce love for the land, all animals, and her many friends. She leaves a daughter, Kimberly, three brothers, a dear niece, and all those she called her “ducklings” – young people she guided with love.

a long and courageous battle against cancer, reaching her goal to attend her daughter Ainsley’s wedding. Anne was born in England and moved to Winnipeg with her family in 1956. A competitive swimmer; she earned a position on the Canadian Olympic team competing in Mexico in 1968.

Anne continued to swim while attending University of Guelph (Sports Hall of Fame), and she earned her BA in early childhood education. As she loved to work with young children, she became an instructor with the early childhood education program at Red River College.

1960s

STAFF

SHONAGH (SMITH) NEAFSEY ’62

JEAN DUDAR

Shonagh passed away on February 21, 2015. Beloved wife of Edward J. and mother of Daniel Edward (Cedar) and Jessica Mary Neafsey, a donation was made to the school in her memory. Retired neuropsychologist and case coordinator for medical research at VA Hines Hospital and UCLA, she volunteered at Wolf Road Prairie Nature Preserve for the last 10 years.

ANNE (WALTON) GRAPE ’69 Anne’s name has been added to a plaque in Kozminski Common Room at Balmoral Hall School honouring deceased members of Class of 1969. Anne passed away on November 23, 2014 after fighting

Jean passed away on July 8 at Holy Family Home, where she had been living since February 2015.

Jean was born in Broad Valley, in Manitoba’s Interlake region, as the eighth of 13 surviving children.

She helped raise her younger siblings before leaving at the age of 17 to work in Winnipeg. She started as a “housemother” for residents of Rupert’s Land College and later became a seamstress (sewing, knitting, and crocheting). Jean enjoyed tending her gardens. In retirement, she and her husband, Wally, enjoyed summers at their Jessica Lake cottage, plus travels throughout US and Canada, and Caribbean cruises.

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In Memoriam Marianne (Burwood) Hollamby RLS ’48

Marianne (Burwood) Hollamby RLS ’48 was close to her alma mater until her recent passing. She often wrote to the school with updates about her Rupert’s Land classmates. She always had kind words of encouragement for Balmoral Hall School’s Alumnae Office.

Informing us of her passing last summer, her children shared the following obituary, which was written by Marianne herself expressly for publication in The Portal — a fitting tribute.

Marianne passed away on August 22, 2015 in London, England. As a British war guest during World War II, Marianne attended Rupert’s Land from 1941–44 (grades 6 to 8). Much of her life is recorded in her book, I Remember it in Colour, published in 1999 and now in the school library. It is her account of: the outbreak of World War II; her voyage to Canada in 1940 with her mother and brother; their stay in Portage La Prairie and Winnipeg; her vivid recollections of her time as a boarder at RLS; and the eventful voyage home in 1944 to be reunited with her father. The book touches briefly on her life after the war, her successful career as a top fashion model in the 40s and 50s, and her family. Included are many fascinating photos of those stories plus the UK reunion she organized in conjunction with the 1987 reunion. Marianne always maintained that because of those growing-up years at RLS, she returned to England with a newfound confidence that undoubtedly contributed to her successful career. Marianne was a wonderful mother and homemaker and honest and loyal friend to all whose lives she touched.

Copies of I Remember it in Colour were given to Balmoral Hall School in 2000 for distribution to alumnae, parents, students, staff, and friends; in accordance with Marianne’s wishes, donations received were to be directed to The Miss Elsie M. Bartlett Fund.

READ THE E-BOOK 3 www.balmoralhall.com/online-archives Search for “I Remember it in Colour.”

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Balmoral Hall remembers

L

ast fall, Bryan Williams, who teaches Senior School humanities at Balmoral Hall School, asked his father if they had a relative who died in 1915 during World War I, and this was Professor David Williams’ reply.

Media, Memory, and the First World War is dedicated to my GreatUncle Morris, who died at Ypres during the first chlorine gas attack of April 22, 1915. Two days later, his brother, Norm, was captured in the nearby village of St-Julien when a German division overran their position and took 1,500 Canadians prisoner. Great-Uncle Norm spent the next three years as a POW. He and most of 1st battalion were forced to work down in the coal mines around Lens, in coal tunnels that had nearly as much water in them as the trenches, and where conditions were almost as hazardous. One day, he and one of his buddies just refused to go down the mine again. So the German commandant ordered them to dig their own graves while the rest of the battalion watched. Then the spectators were ordered inside, where they heard (but didn’t have to watch) the shots from the firing squad. Sure as shooting, the fresh graves were all filled in the next morning. What no one inside the barracks knew was that it had really been a mock execution, and Great-Uncle Norm was shipped off to Germany to work

as a farm hand, where they were desperate for Canadian talent to fix McCormack reapers. The breakdown of North American farm machinery was helping to create food shortages that a war-weary population could no longer tolerate, I suppose. Even as a boy, I knew Great-Uncle Norm couldn’t stand the smell of black bread, which was all the Germans had to feed him.

“This is a great story about my family’s history that I would not have known otherwise, as I had been introducing my students (and colleagues) to The World Remembers in anticipation of Veterans’ Week 2015,” says Bryan Williams.

A not-for-profit initiative, The World Remembers, based in Toronto, collects the names of the World War I dead from both sides in nations around the world, displaying them in each of the WWI centenary years to honour our shared histories. In the weeks leading up to Remembrance Day, names collected were displayed on a screen located in the school’s atrium. Only two schools in Manitoba participated in The World Remembers in 2015. We are proud to have shared this one-of-a-kind resource with members of the community.

It’s our time to remember after all, and we shall continue to do so. 

The World Remembers collects the names of the World War I dead from both sides in nations around the world, displaying them in each centenary year, to honour our shared histories; we are proud to have shared this one-of-a-kind resource with members of the community.

Mr. Williams with his daughter, Makinley, who will be enrolling this fall.

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THE LAST WORD

I

grew up in Winnipeg’s North End attending public school. Looking back now, it seems my destiny was set in 1972 as that summer my parents had inquired about sending me to Balmoral Hall School.

They knew the value of a good education.

Unfortunately, with my father as the sole breadwinner, affording tuition was out of the question for us.

After high school, I attended University of Manitoba; I was the first in my family to do so. I chose to pursue education because many of my teachers had been outstanding role models, and I hoped to follow in their footsteps. I went on to teach in Edmonton before returning to Winnipeg. It was while teaching in the inner city of Winnipeg that a former colleague suggested I apply here as a counsellor and university guidance advisor. I was reluctant at first; I was unsure

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of the all-girls learning environment. My friend persisted, thankfully, and in fall 2001 I joined the faculty. Professionally as well as personally, this opportunity has been worth every risk.

I am where I am today because this school community believes in me. I have been fortunate to see hundreds of BH girls grow up, graduate, and embark upon their own journeys. I am fortunate to be involved in their advancement.

You all embolden me to dream that anything is possible. Both of my parents passed away recently; however, they lived to see their daughter become Head of School. Though it took me a while to get here, I have cherished every minute since.

Joanne Kamins Head of School

LAKE OF THE WOODS Get Together

Monday, July 18, 2016 Royal Lake of the Woods Yacht Club Yacht Club Island, Kenora ON 6 p.m. Cocktails & Appetizers 7 p.m. Three-Course Dinner $75 each, payable to RLWYC at the event, cash bar All members of the BH family welcome.

STAY CONNECTED! UPDATE YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION Have you recently moved, married, or changed phone numbers and/ or email addresses? Perhaps you are wondering why you no longer hear from Balmoral Hall School? Help us ensure future editions of The Portal, The e-Portal, and other alumnae communications reach you. Please keep your contact information up-todate. If in doubt, confirm yours today!

GET INVOLVED Our students need your support.

Volunteers make a difference at panel interviews, tournaments, and community events. As mentors, you provide insight to students as they consider career options. There are opportunities for everyone!

ALUMNAE@BALMORALHALL.COM

RSVP to Balmoral Hall School at bhlakeofthewoods2016.eventbrite.ca or (204) 784-1616.

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RETURN UNDELIVERABLE COPIES TO

BALMORAL HALL SCHOOL 630 WESTMINSTER AVE WINNIPEG MB R3C 3S1 CANADA CANADA POST PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40017087