THE PÂORTAL A SHARED PURPOSE VOLUME 29 | FALL 2019
cover A BALMORAL HALL SCHOOL PUBLICATION
THE PORTAL
A SHARED PURPOSE A BALMORAL HALL SCHOOL PUBLICATION VOLUME 29 | FALL 2019
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PLAYING WITH PURPOSE
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STUDENT-LED SERVICE LEARNING
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GRADUATE PROFILES
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THANK YOU, DONORS
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INSIDE THE CENTRE FOR ARTS & DESIGN
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SARAH ZACHARIAS ’08 & REGAN BOULTON ’09
PUBLISHER
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
EDITORS
CONTRIBUTORS
PHOTOGRAPHY
E-EDITION
Joanne Kamins
Tina M. Alto
Lauren Burns ’20
Brian Gould
balmoralhall.com/theportal
Head of School
Executive Director
Genevieve Cloutier ’03 Alumnae Relations Coordinator
Katherine Campbell ’19
Olivia Wilde ’19
Jennifer J. Pawluk Communications Specialist
Sophie Delaquis ’20
DESIGN UpHouse
MESSAGE FROM OUR HEAD OF SCHOOL
mel·io·rism n /'mēlyә'rizәm/
Belief that the world can be made better by human effort. Balmoral Hall School is committed to meliorism and we have been since the merger of Rupert’s Land and Riverbend in 1950. The endurance of “Meliora Petens — Seeking Better Things” is undeniable, as it now resonates with three generations of alumnae and their families.
Because all of us at Balmoral Hall – faculty, staff, alumnae, parents, grandparents, and friends – recognize women’s intelligence, encourage their voices, and further their ambitions, our girls learn to believe that the world is made better by their efforts. Meliora Petens,
Why is that? I credit faculty and staff for sharing our belief that the world can be made better by human effort. Year after year, they come to Balmoral Hall with a passion for education. Some start their careers here, and some finish. Some build their entire careers at Balmoral Hall. Some come and go and come again. Those who stay do so because of a shared purpose — that is, to educate girls.
Joanne Kamins Head of School
In a 2015 keynote speech, then First Lady Michelle Obama said: “We cannot address our girls’ education crisis until we address the cultural norms and practices that devalue women’s intelligence, silence their voices, and limit their ambitions.”
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The Portal is published once a year by Balmoral Hall School. We are always looking for ways to improve. Please email comments to communications@balmoralhall.ca. REGISTERED CHARITY NO. 129943932RR0001
PLAYING WITH PURPOSE Written by Lauren Burns ’20 The education of a child begins as soon as they are born and grows with every new discovery and interaction they have with their parents if they are given the right opportunities. The lack of Kindergarten readiness in pre-Kindergarten students in Manitoba is a major issue right now because many children do not have these opportunities. Preparation for Kindergarten is essential for early child development, and all children deserve the same access to resources. To address this issue, I created Play Packs. Each pack contains activities and games specifically focused on literacy and numeracy development. Additional components address fine motor, socialemotional, and communication skills that are expected of a child in their age group. Typical items include books, counting games, pattern-making, scissors, and many other activities. Parent involvement is key to the success of these Play Packs, which is why I include a booklet with parenting resources on how to use the activities. Thanks to a successful GoFundMe campaign that started in January 2019, as well as grants from United Way of Winnipeg and TakingITGlobal, by springtime all 89 Nursery and Kindergarten students attending Mulvey School collected monthly a series of three Play Packs to keep at home. Their teachers shared with me that they had noticed an increase in engagement at school and an excitement to learn because of added support at home and familiarity with the new skills being introduced.
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This year, I plan to continue creating seasonal Play Packs for Mulvey School’s Nursery classes, as well as for Kindergarten and Nursery students at Fort Rouge School, with the first of three packs delivered in early October. Playing With Purpose has allowed me to expand my interests and skills in entrepreneurship, social impact, and project management. Through Balmoral Hall School’s newly developed Internship Program for Grade 11 students, which you may have read about in the last volume of The Portal, I connected with educators, entrepreneurs, and community leaders who care about this initiative as much as I do. I would like to express sincere gratitude for the support I have received to make an impact on my community, which has inspired me to expand my reach.
The Internship Program is dependent on mentors who volunteer in one of two ways: 1. Host a student(s) at their workplace (once, or, ideally, multiple times) and provide them with training, tasks, and opportunities to observe real-life careers in action. 2. Connect with students via email or phone to answer questions about their careers and/or education. To learn more, please contact Genevieve Cloutier ’03, Alumnae Relations Coordinator: alumnae@balmoralhall.ca (204) 784-1616
The first set of Play Packs that Lauren (below) assembled for delivery to Mulvey School students in March 2019.
ON MAY 23, 2019, BALMORAL HALL SCHOOL HELD AN INAUGURAL PRIDE PARADE, WITH STUDENTS AND STAFF IN MIDDLE & SENIOR SCHOOL PARTICIPATING. Organized by Senior School students involved in Rainbow Club, 2019 Pride was a celebration of the diversity of LGBTQ* identities. “We honoured the accomplishments and progress the LGBTQ* community has made, as well as recognized what still needs to be done to achieve true equality,” says Emma Joyal ’19, who co-lead Rainbow Club with Marina Levit ’19 during their senior year. Just as Middle & Senior School students and staff were dressed in fun rainbow colours, the atrium was also decorated for the occasion. The celebration began with a powerful performance by three students, Mia Battad ’19, Alix Yallowega ’19, and Emma Machado ’19, followed by the parade itself as each advisory and homeroom walked through the atrium with posters symbolizing the meaning of the colours of the rainbow flag. After the parade, the posters were hung in the atrium to display the wonderful work and spirit of each advisory and homeroom.
Marina (left) & Emma J. co-lead Rainbow Club, organizing an inaugural in-school Pride Parade in May 2019.
help bring a sense of belonging and acceptance to campus, and the impact exceeded our expectations.” Emma J. and Marina acknowledged the encouragement of Rainbow Club Advisors Angela O’Brien-Klewchuk and Krista Greenwood, support from Middle & Senior School Principal Jodi Hafenbrak, and a Rising Youth Community Service Grant from TakingITGlobal in making the first-ever Pride celebration, along with International Day of Pink (April 10, 2019), so successful. “We hope this will continue and that Pride becomes something students look forward to every year at Balmoral Hall like other school events and traditions,” shares Emma J.
“It was exciting to witness the enthusiasm from students and staff throughout the day and the high energy of everyone who participated in the parade,” Marina recalls. “We had hoped that this day would
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STUDENT-LED SERVICE LEARNING: A GIRLS FOR THE WORLD RETROSPECTIVE From a few Senior School students who wanted to make a difference to all this …
2006–2010
2012
From a trip to El Salvador with Habitat for Humanity in 2006, to The Dominican Republic with Orphanage Outreach in 2008, and returning to El Salvador with Students Without Borders in 2009, service learning at Balmoral Hall School evolves beyond volunteering abroad. Students establish school initiatives with Amnesty International, Free The Children, and other charitable organizations worldwide. 2010 marks a turning point. Fourteen students travel to Guatemala with Lois McGill and Bryan Williams to volunteer with Open Windows Foundation, and conversations about global impact occur year-round.
Noelle Verry ’12 becomes the first Global Issues Prefect. Girls for the World members participate in WE Are Silent and 23 Hour Famine, also partnering with NEEDS and Programme Jeunesse Ici Corp to establish the Missing Link program to help refugees develop literacy and technology skills right here in Winnipeg.
2011 Seventeen students travel to The Dominican Republic, accompanied by Ms McGill and Mr. Williams, to volunteer with Orphanage Outreach once again. Girls for the World first appears in the yearbook as a club, with students participating in WE Are Silent, 23 Hour Famine, and speaking with Chantal Kreviazuk ’91, regarding her work with War Child, and hosting a keynote from Marc Kielburger on behalf of Free The Children.
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2013 Thirty students travel to Kenya with Ms McGill, Krista Greenwood, and Mandy Green to volunteer with ME to WE. Girls for the World members organize a toonie drive in support of the lunch program at Kamwokya Primary School in Kampala, Uganda, while continuing to participate in WE Are Silent and 23 Hour Famine, in addition to their involvement in the inaugural Safe Night Off Winnipeg Streets (SNOW) event for women involved in the sex trade.
2014 Seventeen students travel to Poland and Germany with Carissa (Nikkel) Balcaen ’02, Caitlin Briggs, and Tim Krymusa to volunteer with Coalition for Kids, also visiting Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau. Girls for the World members organize a second toonie drive for Kamwokya Primary School, continue their support of WE Are Silent, SNOW, and 23 Hour Famine, and the school community donates 74.5 lbs. of food to Winnipeg Harvest through WE Scare Hunger.
2015
2017
2019
Fourteen students travel to Ecuador and The Galapagos Islands with Ms Briggs and Jennifer Kirk. Girls for the World members connect with Apne Aap Women’s Collective, continue to build ongoing partnerships with NEEDS, and remain supportive of WE Scare Hunger, WE Are Silent, SNOW, and 23 Hour Famine.
Seventeen students travel to Peru with Ms McGill and John Kerr to build a study space in the slums of Lima for impoverished elementary school students. Girls for the World members further develop partnerships with NEEDS, host the second annual International Women’s Day Assembly, and still support WE Scare Hunger, WE Are Silent, SNOW, and 23 Hour Famine.
Fourteen students travel to Costa Rica with Ms McGill and Ketri Wilkes for project-based learning with Restoring Our Watershed. In addition to expanding their knowledge of biodiversity in the Nandamojo watershed, they assist a local volunteer fire brigade in constructing a storage facility. WE Scare Hunger, WE Are Silent, Write for Rights, SNOW, International Women’s Day, and 23 Hour Famine are ongoing student-led efforts.
Alumnae are invited to contact Genevieve Cloutier ’03, Alumnae Relations Coordinator, to learn more about how to get involved with student-led service learning abroad.
2016 Ms McGill and Mr. Williams return to Guatemala with Open Windows Foundation and 13 students. Lead by Girls for the World members, the Balmoral Hall School community raises more funds than any other school in Canada for Plan International Canada’s Spread the Net campaign, which provides lifesaving bed nets as part of malaria prevention efforts in Africa. Support for WE Scare Hunger, WE Are Silent, SNOW, and 23 Hour Famine continues. Girls for the World partners with Youth in Philanthropy as students organize the inaugural International Women’s Day Assembly.
alumnae@balmoralhall.ca (204) 784-1616
2018 Thirteen students travel to Guatemala with Ms McGill and Mr. Kerr, aiding Open Windows Foundation once again — this time, building a home for a family in need of adequate housing. Girls for the World members continue to give their steadfast support to WE Scare Hunger, WE Are Silent, SNOW, International Women’s Day, and 23 Hour Famine, and they involve their peers in Write for Rights, as well.
PROFILE OF A GRADUATE
MIA BATTAD ’19 “MIA EMPOWERS THE YOUNGER GIRLS TO DEFY EXPECTATIONS AND TO FEEL AS CONFIDENT AS SHE DOES IN PURSUING HER PASSIONS AND INTERESTS.” “These students will make great contributions to society, both on a national and global scale.” “Mia demonstrates the boundless capabilities of women leading in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM),” University Guidance Advisor Jennifer McDonald says. “She volunteered in Junior School classrooms to assist students as they explored physics and simple machines with confidence. With the Middle & Senior School robotics clubs, she applied her knowledge and mentored teams as they developed their skills.”
For her outstanding academic and co-curricular achievements throughout Senior School, Class of 2019 Alumnae Prefect and Balmoral Hall School Lifer Mia Battad received a Schulich Leader Scholarship to pursue studies in computer science at University of Manitoba. “Schulich Leader Scholarships are the largest STEM scholarships in Canada,” states Seymour Schulich. “With 50 outstanding students selected in Canada each year it is all but guaranteed that this group represents the best and brightest Canada has to offer.
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“It was a busy time of year, and so I thought, ‘Oh well, it isn’t a big deal, since I probably won’t get it anyways, maybe, I’ll just focus on other things,’ but there are some things you have to commit to. “I learned an important lesson,” she says, of overcoming her doubts. “I haven’t always been confident in myself. It has been a journey getting here, and I am proud of myself. I owe it to myself to be confident by believing in the skills that I have. “It isn’t just my hard work that got me to here. It’s the help of my parents. It’s the support of my friends. It’s the teachers who taught me what I learned. This new chapter is me showing them that they made a difference.”
“Mia empowers the younger girls to defy expectations and to feel as confident as she does in pursuing her passions and interests,” adds Dr. Patricia Mitchler, who teaches physics at Balmoral Hall School. The decision to apply for the prestigious scholarship was a difficult one, Mia recalls, noting that she had to find confidence to believe in herself. “It takes a lot of courage to put yourself out there like that, to commit to an application process, and there is always a considerable chance of failure,” shares Mia, a National AP Scholar (Canada). “Prior to submitting the application, I wondered if I should have called Mrs. McDonald to tell her that I had decided not to apply after all.
Mia (right) and her sister, Katelyn Battad ’18, after Closing Exercises.
PROFILE OF A GRADUATE
VICTORIA STEFANSON ’19 “When they came to present me with the Hellmuth, it just felt right,” Victoria recalls. “I had visited Huron in Fall 2018, and, honestly, I felt that sense of community as though I belonged there.” With interests in political science and commerce, Victoria has the opportunity to pursue a combined degree with advanced entry to Ivey Business School at Western University.
“BALMORAL HALL SCHOOL HAS PREPARED ME BEST FOR MY NEXT STEPS, FINDING MY PATH.”
When Huron University College visited Balmoral Hall School on April 29, 2019 to offer Victoria Stefanson ’19 their prestigious scholarship, which is named for Huron’s first Principal, Bishop Isaac Hellmuth, no one was more surprised than she. Staff and students had gathered, quietly, in the atrium at the appointed time, when representatives from Huron were scheduled to meet with Victoria. Greeted with balloons in Huron’s colours, red and white, and with her parents, Jason and Heather (McDonald) Stefanson ’88, at her side, she happily accepted her leather-bound certificate.
“Victoria fully supports our mandate to ensure a Balmoral Hall education is within reach for all girls of promise,” shares Genevieve Cloutier ’03, Alumnae Relations Coordinator. “Future BH girls are the beneficiaries of her leadership of The Class of 2019 Fund. Our gratitude is never-ending.” “Balmoral Hall School has prepared me best for my next steps, finding my path,” Victoria reflects. “As a lifer, I had such a good experience, and I hope a lot more girls will have the same opportunities.”
Victoria is well prepared for such a demanding course of study. With a secondary school transcript that includes Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus and a resume that highlights involvement in Junior Achievement, her time management skills are evident, as is her persistence to overcome obstacles. What is most remarkable about Victoria, however, is her steadfast commitment to helping others. As Class of 2019 Fund Leadership Chair, she presented a cheque for $50,000.08 to The Balmoral Hall School Foundation on May 31, 2019 during the time-honoured Doll Assembly. The Class of 2019 Fund signifies a lasting legacy for graduates thanks to endowment. Endowed in perpetuity, The Class of 2019 Fund will generate interest annually to provide student bursaries.
Victoria (right) and classmate Avery Fletcher ’19 on the steps of Aikins House.
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PROFILE OF A GRADUATE
JESSICA SUI ’19
“I HAVE THE MINDSET THAT I SHOULD CHASE MY DREAMS. I SHOULD GO AFTER THE THINGS I WANT, EVEN IF THEY SEEM IMPOSSIBLE, BECAUSE THEY WILL BE WORTH IT NO MATTER WHAT HAPPENS IN THE END.”
Jessica has chased her dreams all the way to Philadelphia, Pa. as an Ivy League student at University of Pennsylvania, where she will pursue interdisciplinary studies in Science, Technology & Society. The College of Arts & Sciences describes the undergraduate major as follows: “Courses focus on the social and humanistic aspects of science and the professions: the growth of scientific institutions, the role of science in technology and clinical medicine, the influence of economic and political factors on research and the application of knowledge, and problems of science and technology management and public policy.”
When it comes to influences, those that shape who you are, Balmoral Hall School is one-of-a-kind. “Growing up at this school, every day, you are told about empowerment and ambition, going after what you want and having these big, big dreams. The message, always, is that you can do anything,” imparts Jessica Sui ’19, a lifer and the daughter of Bin Dong Jiang, Dean of Boarding. “I have the mindset that I should chase my dreams. I should go after the things I want, even if they seem impossible, because they will be worth it no matter what happens in the end.” 10
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“Don’t put pressure on yourself to be the student you think they want you to be,” she muses. “Balmoral Hall School is a unique place,” adds Jessica, Class of 2019 Community Service Prefect. “A lot of schools can make you ambitious, but I think Balmoral Hall really makes you kind, compassionate, and caring. You care about issues around the world, but, not only that, you care about the people around you in your community. “Everyone who works here is so nice, welcoming, and warm, and, as a student here, you respect those qualities, embracing them as your own.”
As a National AP Scholar (Canada), Jessica is well prepared for post-secondary inquiry, receiving an average score of at least 4, on a 5-point scale, on all Advanced Placement exams taken, as well as scores of 4 or higher on five or more of those exams. Still, she received a few letters of rejection in the process of submitting her university applications last year, much to her disappointment, which motivated her to figure out how to handle rejection. “It’s not a testament of how smart you are, nor how good a student you are. It’s all whether that school is the right fit,” Jessica insists. “For me, it was Penn, my dream school.” Her best advice? Be yourself.
Jessica (right) and her mother, Bin Dong Jiang, Dean of Boarding.
In Memoriam
EMMA MACHADO ’19 Emma died tragically in a bus accident on Vancouver Island on September 13, 2019. She had just started her university life and was full of determination and excitement at the world that was opening before her. She leaves to grieve in her absence her loving parents, Jose Machado and Ethel MacIntosh, and her cherished older sister, Samantha ’17. Emma spent most of her life as a student at Balmoral Hall School after her early years at Children at the Centre, the daycare at Health Sciences Centre. She was actively involved in numerous school activities including theatre, curling, Reach For The Top, and Rainbow Club. Emma greatly enjoyed interacting with the younger students and worked in the afterschool programs with care and understanding, a valued helper to the teachers and loved by the youngsters. Her greatest joy was volunteering in Mrs. Thomson’s Kindergarten class. She also volunteered at Manitoba Museum for several years and worked day camps there this past summer. Emma was an enthusiastic student and a joyful friend to her many, many friends both in Winnipeg and her short time at University of Victoria. She loved curling (both at school and at St. Vital Curling Club), travelling, movies, and music, playing drums and guitar as a Music Cellar student and with friends for impromptu jam sessions. The Winnipeg Folk Festival was a highlight of her summer schedule. Memorable family holidays involved travelling to places such as New York, Orlando, Portland, The Bahamas, Hawaii, Kenya, Iceland, and cycling last summer in Czech Republic and Austria. In addition, Emma enjoyed school service trips to South America as a dedicated, hard worker.
She had grown into a confident, brilliant young woman who aspired to many goals, including philanthropy and earth conservation. With our hearfelt sympathies to The MacIntosh– Machado Family. Submitted by Jiaxuan “Hannah” Deng ’19 “You were sitting in one of the classrooms – we were all surprised and extremely happy to see you – you stood up and hugged everyone. Then, the alarm clock went off.” Camryn Gauthier ’19 “I will always remember Emma as my first friend in Grade 5 when I moved to Balmoral Hall. I remember walking off the bus, standing alone, and hearing Emma’s voice behind me yelling, ‘Camryn Gauthier, is that you?’ and we’re friends ever since.” Mu Qu “Jennifer” Liu ’19 “Emma had been a dear friend to me. I first met her in Grade 10, but we grew close in grades 11 and 12 as we had most of our classes together. Emma and I stressed about the same subjects, and so we always had lab and test discussions. Emma was bright and friendly, one of my closest friends. I am beyond lucky to call Emma a friend; I don’t think I would have made it through high school without her.” Gabriella Nowicki ’19 “I feel so lucky to have grown up with such an amazing, smart, and loving person. Love you forever, Emma.” Siwen “Nancy” Shen ’19 “You are the first Canadian girl who invited me out for dinner. It was a point that changed my life. Thank you for the past four years’ friendship.”
Emma Machado ’19, receiving her diploma from Principal Jodi Hafenbrak in June 2019 at Westminster United Church.
Mia Saurette ’19 “Emma was one of the most fascinating people I’ve ever met. Her passion for learning and bettering the world was so inspiring to me. Emma was always the first one to say hello and would always greet you with a warm smile and a hug. I will miss our deep talks that we’d have about life and reminiscing funny memories that we had shared together. I am beyond lucky to have called her my friend. We love you, Emma, and you will be missed tremendously.” Yiwen “Wendy” Xia ’19 “You are the best curler!” Jessica Sui ’19 “Emma, there will never be another person with your smile, your voice, your spirit, your radiance, or your personality. And I am so grateful to have known the only you that will ever be.” Olivia Wilde ’19 “Emma was one of the nicest people I have ever met. I started at Balmoral Hall in 2010, and I remember her welcoming me so warmly to the BH family. Emma was truly sweet to everyone in our grade. I will miss her calm energy, her bright personality and mind, and her overwhelming amount of kindness.”
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2019 DONOR IMPACT REPORT
THANK YOU, DONORS Written by Katherine Campbell ’19 I am humbled and thankful to say that I am part of the family at Balmoral Hall because of assistance from incredibly generous people. I was Head Girl for 2018–2019. My sister, Anne Campbell ’17, also attended Balmoral Hall, and she was Head Girl two years ago. Anne is now studying political science at Western University. She has worked for Senator Marilou McPhedran and recently spent time discussing women’s rights at the United Nations headquarters in New York City. I now attend Western University, as well, studying political science and business. At first my family came to Balmoral Hall because of the hockey program, but what kept us here is what happens in everyday moments. When I decided not to play hockey anymore, I started to question who I was and who I wanted to be. Balmoral Hall has helped me become the person I was meant to be. Enrolling one daughter at Balmoral Hall is one thing, but having two daughters attend the school is another. I am grateful to our parents for all that they
do for us. They love us, they work hard to provide for us, and they have made many sacrifices for us. Still, the reality is that I was able to attend Balmoral Hall only because of the generosity of those who give to Balmoral Hall School and its Foundation. I had an excellent public school background in French immersion. This allowed me to recognize and appreciate the daily opportunities, in moments big and small, at Balmoral Hall. I know what it means to work with incredible staff who together create an innovative, rigorous learning culture. I know what it means to work with girls who want to make a real difference in the world. I joined many clubs, took part in musicals, and played for several sports teams. I tried to make the most of every day that I had at Balmoral Hall School, and, as Head Girl, I tried to help others in celebrations and in difficult times, serving as an ally for all students.
THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING GIRLS’ LEARNING AT BALMORAL HALL SCHOOL. Every year, the endowment generates income to provide tuition support, ensuring that a Balmoral Hall education is within reach for all girls of promise. Please consider making a contribution to the endowment. balmoralhall.com/give
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2018-2019 DONOR RECOGNITION Randy Allan Richard Alp & Yasmin Nadeem Tina Alto Tim Anderson & Doug Brown Joanne Nisbet & Kelly Andreas Neil Antman & Andrea Mann The Joshua Foundation Edward Ayoub & Dilara Ozanalp Carissa (Nikkel) Balcaen ’02 Aynsley Baldwin ’99 Kathryn Ball ’98 Christina (Coughlin) Bangen ’79 Monica Barabonoff ’83 The Barnes Family Dr. Anthony & Gisele Battad Katelyn Battad ’18 Mia Battad ’19 Murray & Anne Batte, grandparents of Ariana Meyers ’09 Kirsten Benidickson ’18 Judith Bennett, grandmother of Lucy ’22 & Zara ’26 MacDougall Allison Boulton ’93 John & Joan Boulton, grandparents of Regan Boulton ’09 Marilyn Bowles Caitlin Briggs Diane & Bob Brown The LeBlanc-Buckle Family Adam Burgener & Megan Kelly Philip & Kanning Burns Vicki (Guy) Burns ’79 Tracy Burston Albert & Diane Cain, grandparents of Hope Johnson ’22 Mark Carlson & Leanne Williams Chemo Savvy Inc. Aaron Chiu & Leslie Simard-Chiu Ted & Sheila Chop, grandparents of Gabrielle Andreas ’28 Brandon Christopher & Vanessa Warne The Cipryk Family
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Janet Circolo, grandmother of Una ’20 and Inez ’23 Mayberry Clear Concepts Genvevieve Cloutier ’03 Kelly Collins Teresa Cooper & Jordan Janisse Tania Costantini Sergio & Ernestine Da Silva Paul Daeninck & Monica Furer Dana Hospitality LP Anand Dandekar & Bianca Salnave-Dandekar Mary (McGiverin) Daniher ’75 Ken & Pam Davis Roger & Geneviève Delaquis Craig & Cathy Doerksen Himalaya & Doris Dong Charly & Petra Dornetshuber Anna (Cholakis) Dovolis ’79 Judith Dowler ’66 Melanie McIntyre & Chris Downey Cynthia (Kilpatrick) Eaton ’79 Colleen Einarson FGL Sports Ltd. Jamie & Cindy Field David Filmon Gary Finkleman & Pamela Katz The Fletcher Family Harris Forsythe
Terry Fulton-Baillie Gerd & Heidi Gamradt Stacey Grocholski & Andrew Gandier Pallab Ganguly & Riya Ganguly ’03 in memory of Rina Ganguly Jim & Betty Anne Gaynor, grandparents of Shea Gaynor ’12, Gabriella ’19 & Caelan ’21 Nowicki Zoya & Arya Gillagar Ashley (Zajac) Glen ’02 Rita Globa Tara & Jason Goertzen Tyler Gompf & Rebecca Mollard Mandy Green Krista Greenwood Daphne & Ianthe Groumoutis Saumik & Tejaswini Geoff & Jennifer Gyles, grandparents of Charlotte Gyles ’31 Stephen & Jodi Hafenbrak Sheila Hafenbrak, grandmother of Emma ’20 & Ryann ’23 Hafenbrak Millard-Hales Family Ken & Tamara Hamin Roma Hanson Ron & Cheryl Haverick Margaret Haworth-Brockman ’79 The Heimbecker Family Ramzi & Lauren Helewa Mark Hofer W. & S. Hokanson Roxanne Ilagan ’08 Mr. & Ms Jain Mirjana Janzen Nathan Janzen & Candy Wong Bin Dong Jiang Michael Johnson & Marisa Curatolo Glenn Joyal & Joanne Préjet Joanne & Rod Kamins
The Class of 2018 awarded their inaugural bursary at Closing Exercises in June 2019, with Kirsten Benidickson ’18 announcing Ashley Stanley ’21 as the first of many beneficiaries to come.
Kateryna & Crystal Kateryniuk Daniel & Jaimie Kehler Jennifer (Alexander) King ’63 Kolach Family Amanda Kostyk Trevor & Elaine Kotowich Sylvia Krenn Kari & Ayush Kumar Kelsey Lacombe ’11 Chloë McComb & Sam Lazareck Marilyn (Hawkins) Leggett ’60 Stevan Leipsic Duane & Sarah (Ullyot) Lesperance ’91 Markus & Evi Levander Daniel Levin & Lilian Bonin Keith & Linda Levit Cloris Li Shirley Liba, grandmother of Kelsey ’11 & Madison ’18 Lacombe, Sophie Liba ’20 and Siena Liba ’28 Jennifer Liba Lifetouch Canada Ltd. Cheryl Little Lia Loewen ’18 and Family Jonathon Lyon & Bonnie Staples-Lyon Martin Lyons in memory of Helen Lyons Laura MacDougall Ethel MacIntosh & Jose Machado Margot (Anderson) Malchuk ’67 Jillian Taylor-Mancusi & Sel Mancusi George & Kristi Mathew Shaun & Dana Mayberry Dan & Kristen McConnell Lois McGill Deborah Metcalfe ’76 Barbara Meyers, grandmother of Ariana Meyers ’09 Dr. Kelsey Mills ’01 Arun & Anjali Misra Ash Modha & Chalnessa Eames Andrea & Jay Myers Jennifer Maw & Shawn Nason Edward Neafsey in memory of Shonagh (Smith) Neafsey ’62 Rachel Niessen Judy Olmstead-Coss, grandmother of Zara Kasdorf ’28 John & Gabriela Ormiston Terry & Susan Palmer Jennifer Pawluk Anna Pegoretti-Saurette Jim & Heather Perchaluk Estate of Betty-Lou (McPhail) Phillips Gr. 11 ’55
The Ossama AbouZeid Scholarship for Excellence in Math & Science was presented to Yi Lin “Bonnie” Luo ’20 by Dr. AbouZeid himself at Closing Exercises in June 2019.
Jason Podaima John Prendergast, grandfather of Lauren King ’22 The Prolific Group Heather Provis ’79 Shelagh & David Quinton Dejana Radulovic Art & Marilyn Redekopp, grandparents of Claire ’24 & Lucy ’28 Mayberry Linda Rigby Nancy M. Riley ’71 Marlene Roy, grandmother of Isabelle ’25 & Gabrielle ’28 Danielson Roy Daniel Sirski & Andrea Rush-Sirski ’98 The Safiniuk Family Ruth Schellenberg Stuart & Laila Schwartz Sheena Sharp ’79 Mark, Sabrina & Siena Smith Rhonda Smith Terry & Kathryn Speiss Judith & Amory ’00 Steek Jason Stefanson & Heather (McDonald) Stefanson ’88 Tom Stefanson in memory of Diane Stefanson Pachal-Stewart Family Erna & Doug Stiles, grandparents of Autumn DeHart ’29 Kris Swedlo & Abby Mann Geert ’t Jong & Inge Zeldenrust TakingITGlobal The ten Krooden Family Catherine (Coughlin) Thiessen ’78 Douglas, Arda & Ella ’13 Thomson Signy Thordarson Rita Trautmann Cho Venevongsa & Tracy Chen
Amy (Best) Wadley RLS ’45 Josh Weinstein & Brenlee Schacter Pamela (Stevens) West ’79 Steve & Laura (Lemon) Wetton ’03 Sheila Wolfe, grandmother of Olivia Wilde ’19 Valerie Wowryk Lois Yallowega & Marion Alexander Sarah Zacharias ’08 Robyn Zajac ’08 Diana (Page) Zambonelli RLS ’46 Tim & Amber Zaretzky Ruixuan Zhou Dr. Kenneth & Mrs. Lori Zimmer 20 Anonymous
A special thank you to all Class of 2019 Fund supporters, those listed in bold type.
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FUTURE CHANGEMAKERS INSIDE THE CENTRE FOR ARTS & DESIGN Photography by Olivia Wilde ’19
With less than $500,000 required to fully fund this priority project, your help is still needed! Make your contribution before December 31, 2019. Naming opportunities and on-site recognition available until then. balmoralhall.com/fullSTEAMahead
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FULL STEAM AHEAD CAMPAIGN Thank you to the following donors, listed on pages 18-21, who made commitments to the Centre for Arts & Design before June 30, 2019. $1,000,000+ Richardson Foundation Inc.
$750,000 – $1,000,000 Kristjan & Shirley Benidickson
$500,000 – $749,999 The Riley Family J. Derek Riley (1922-2018) Jean (Riley) Senft ’67 & Family H. Sanford & Deborah Riley
$250,000 – $499,999 Balmoral Hall School Parent Association The Cipryk Family 1 Anonymous
$100,000 – $249,999 Kevin Dick & Rebecca Friesen The Heimbecker Family Gerry & Barb Price
$50,000 – $99,999 Dr. Jennifer Anderson Anna-Lisa Cohen ’85 & James Cohen The Cuevas Family Peter Tielmann & Tara DeFehr-Tielmann ’91 The Everett Family Vicky Jordan Peter Lemon & Family Jim & Heather Perchaluk Hartley & Heather Richardson
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$25,000 – $49,999 Clear Concepts The Fletcher Family Joanne & Rod Kamins The Kozminski Family The Liang-Guo Family Lia Loewen ’18 and Family Lorraine Beck & Craig McIntosh Ash Modha & Chalnessa Eames Fanlin Qu Joan (Rankin) Richardson ’69 Shirley (Rooper) Richardson RIV Gr. 11 ’41 Tannis (Thorlakson) Richardson RLS ’44 Sandilands-Kennedy Family 1 Anonymous
The Eng Family Stacey Grocholski & Andrew Gandier Sean, Kimberly, Stefanie ’26 and Sara ’28 Gatin Jason Goldberg & Adelina (Lazareck) Goldberg ’87 Jotaro & Keiko Hagiwara Chris & Kim Isford Aaron & Jen Martyniw Dean Meier & Bea Rasmidatta Donald Mrochuk & Patti Mykytiuk Shu Keung Leo Ng & King Shan Lam Jason & Lindsay Polet Xinran (Nancy) Pu ’26 Allen & Marilyn Robinson, grandparents of Katherine Robinson ’23 Gordon & Kay Shawcross ’65, grandparents of Samantha ’13 & Danielle ’17 Moreau Wade & Jennifer Sigfusson Sparrow Family Lyn Stephen ’57 Kris Swedlo & Abby Mann Geert ‘t Jong & Inge Zeldenrust Takeshi, Yasuyo & Yuri ’21 Toyoda Hanjun Tu & Yunna Qian The Xia-Li Family Bing Quan Yan & Xian Fan Li 1 Anonymous
$10,000 – $24,999 Dr. Anthony & Gisele Battad Paul Beauregard & Jennifer Pfuetzner Cardinal Foundation The Chen & Xiong Family Davies Strategic Directions Inc. Tyler Gompf & Rebecca Mollard Kateryna & Crystal Kateryniuk Bruce King & Louise Prendergast Peter & Joan Kyle, grandparents of Lily Stewner ’20 The Li-Zheng Family Mayberry Fine Art Vinh Nguyen & Daryn West Chongyang Weng & Minyun Wang Xiao Feng Xie & Li Ya Mao Jiayi Zhang Family The Zhao-Kang Family 1 Anonymous
$5,000 – $9,999 Trish Anderson Anderson Family Alan Borger & Natalija Zmavc Patricia (Glover) Bovey ’66 Charly & Petra Dornetshuber
SPOTLIGHT ON DONORS
VICKY JORDAN Alumnae, parents, and staff who have worked with Vicky Jordan throughout the past three decades know that she gives her heart and soul to her students. As a valued and versatile Educational Assistant, working with students of all ages, she has been devoted to girls’ education at Balmoral Hall School for 30 years.
“Leaving a legacy at Balmoral Hall School is extremely important to me,” shares Mrs. Jordan, who has just begun her 31st school year at Balmoral Hall School. “I made a financial contribution to the Centre for Arts & Design to show my unconditional support for and commitment to BH girls — past, present, and future.” Thank you to Mrs. Vicky Jordan, one of the earliest supporters of the campaign, for her extraordinary generosity. Balmoral Hall School is pleased to offer a naming opportunity of a space in the Centre for Arts & Design in recognition of her leadership gift.
$2,500 – $4,999 Dick & Elaine Archer, grandparents of Emily Thompson ’17 Daunica (Martin) Brock ’83 & Caitlin Brock ’08 Jennifer Buechel ’88 Philip & Kanning Burns Gustavo Castaneda & Nancy Porhownik The Davey Family Allan & Christine Dubyts Jamie & Cindy Field Gary Finkleman & Pamela Katz Zoya & Arya Gillagar Carla Goncalo ’01 Daphne & Ianthe Groumoutis Gu-Tian Family Collin, Lindsey & Charlotte Gyles Mary (Wiswell) Hanson ’71 Cloris Li David Pancoe & Kristin Heinrichs Jason Podaima The Weinstein Family in honour of Courtney ’08 Siqi (Anna) Xi Xia-Jia Family The Xu-Liu Family
$1,000 – $2,499 Anna AbouZeid ’01 Elham Agili & Abdul Elkhemri Chris Allinotte & Aimee Rice ’92 Wayne & Lee Anderson, grandparents of Tansi Anderson ’28 Dawna (Duncan) Armstrong ’55 & Diana (Duncan) Young ’55 Mary Grace Ashdown Durst ’78 in memory of Ruby (Benidickson) Ashdown RIV Gr. 11 ’39 Edward Ayoub & Dilara Ozanalp Scott & Sandy Bailey Donna Baron ’66 Kuldip & Sharn Bhullar Alun Bowness & Sheila Nash Rick & Judy Brown, grandparents of Colleen McConnell ’22 Gordon & Vanessa Buduhan Craig & Carolyn Capell Delilah Chornenki Brandon Christopher & Vanessa Warne Geoff & Marianne Crewson Ms So’Lanna Dallaire Ron & Mithra Davey, grandparents of Mira ’24 & Emily ’26 Davey Zhiyong Duan & Jie Wang Dyregrov Robinson Inc. Dr. Basem Elbarouni & Seham Krmos Fabio Esposito & Sheila Picklyk Susan (Harris) Foster Gr. 11 ’63
Jim & Betty Anne Gaynor, grandparents of Shea Gaynor ’12, Gabriella ’19 & Caelan ’21 Nowicki Clayton & Lorraine Gording, grandparents of Annika Gording ’30 Heather Grove Dr. Hamam & Ms. Alchikh Ali The Harada Family Miyu Hironaka Tina Huang Nathan Janzen & Candy Wong Jinhui Ji & Yanhua Gang Paul Komenda & Mandy Whitlock Larry & Chris Kristalovich, grandparents of Lauren Houston ’33 Ellie & Jolie Lai Mara Koven-Lapointe & Ryan Lapointe Fred & Michelle Levesque Scott & Dawn Lins Dr. Murray & Mrs. Jeanne Lushaw Valerie & Cristina ’13 Mace Ethel MacIntosh & Jose Machado Jillian Taylor-Mancusi & Sel Mancusi Maple Leaf Construction Steve & Cathie Maric, grandparents of Lucija Rolfe-Maric ’28 & Sasha Maric ’31 George & Kristi Mathew Dr. Patricia Mitchler Andrea & Jay Myers Zhen Ning & Baolin Sun Play it Again Sports Sharon Polet, grandmother of Lily Polet ’25 Evans & Mardene Premachuk Dejana Radulovic Patrick & Carla Rae Penny (McDonald) Richards ’65 Nancy M. Riley ’71 in memory of Frances “Dime” (Aikins) Riley RIV Gr. 11 ’33 Dr. Brent & Mrs. Rea Roussin Marc Seewald & Stacey Beldom Sean Shapiro & Kera Borodkin Leif Sigurdson & Leanne van Amstel Mark, Sabrina & Siena Smith Kevin Solinsky Song-Zong Family Terry & Kathryn Speiss Frank & Kimberley Stockl David Sun & Helen Hu Dr. and Mrs. Werner and Kyla Van Dyk Amy (Best) Wadley RLS ’45 George & Sharon Wagner, grandparents of Emma ’20 & Ryann ’23 Hafenbrak John Webster & Marie Harnois
Glenn Westlund & Fen Fen Tan Donghao, Xia Xu & Dora Xu Alene Xiaoling Yin Yu Yan Lisa Yin Kevin & Jan Zaharia Ruixuan Zhou 4 Anonymous
$500 – $999 Manny & Sharan Atwal The Barnes Family Michelle Bishop & Jared Bater Robbie Bedford Beesley Somkid Boonthajit & Joscelynn Tan Janice (Cain) Bosley ’64 John & Joan Boulton, grandparents of Regan Boulton ’09 Regan Boulton ’09 Joe & Eveline Bova, grandparents of Lily Bova ’29 Mary (Harris) Campbell RIV Gr. 11 ’39 Shirley Delapenha-Dobbin, grandmother of Alicia Kliewer ’31 Rupert & Edna Forde, grandparents of Lia Loewen ’18 Joelle Foster ’86 Janet & Craig Fredette Denise Gariepy Gdih Gdih & Fatma Gdih Jenny Gill Grade 4/5 Entrepreneur Club (2018/19) Don & Irene Huggins, grandparents of Kaci Huggins ’26 Don Huggins & Keri Ranson Duane Jordan & Christine Michel Daisuke & Miki Kimura Jennifer Kirk Kari & Ayush Kumar Deanna LaJambe in memory of David Andre Boisvert Elizabeth LaPage Chloë McComb & Sam Lazareck Nigel & Marilyn Lilley, grandparents of Kameron ’23 & Kailey ’25 Chan Keith McConnell & Sarah Brown Rick & Lori Miller Arun & Anjali Misra Emily (Quinton) Mitchell ’11 Meagan Mutchmor John & Gabriela Ormiston Kirstan Osborne & Kouki Murakami Jane (Wallace) Osterland RLS Gr. 11 ’49 Helen Pachal, in memory of Stanley Pachal Jennifer Pawluk Stan & Lorraine Plett, grandparents of Gina Plett ’21 Carolyn Porhownik in memory of Lupe Castaneda’s great-grandmother, Viola THE PORTAL | FALL 2019
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Brian W. Porter George & Beverley Ranson, grandparents of Kaci Huggins ’26 Yvonne Tavares & Colin Robinson Kim Spencer-Nairn ’93 Joanne Sutherland ’63 Darlene Sveinson Akira & Sonia Tsutsumi, grandparents of Ruby Berry ’27 Hymie & Shaaron Weinstein, grandparents of Samantha Weinstein ’27 Rob & Leanne West Steve & Laura (Lemon) Wetton ’03 Bryan & Kendra Williams Norman & Elsie Williams, grandparents of Grace Lynn Williams ’29 Audrey Wu Lois Yallowega & Marion Alexander Aiping Qiao & Qiaohui “Grace” Yang 8 Anonymous
$250 – $499 Richard Alp & Yasmin Nadeem Hilary (Carter) Alto ’74 Lori Anderson Joanne Nisbet & Kelly Andreas Neil Antman & Andrea Mann Carissa (Nikkel) Balcaen ’02 Jody Baty & Angelene Fast Judith Bennett, grandmother of Lucy ’22 & Zara ’26 MacDougall Dr. Marcia (Jackson) Boyd ’64 The Bridgelall Family Tannis Brown Dee Buchwald, grandmother of Serena ’18 & Rachael ’18 Buchwald Mark Carlson & Leanne Williams Castillo Family Tania Costantini Sergio & Ernestine Da Silva Darek Dawda & Jessica Gonzalez fam de Jongh Cyndee De Lande Shirley Mayadewi & Dustin Deck Susan Delaney Craig & Cathy Doerksen Dale & Lee Downey, grandparents of Isla Downey ’29 Andrew & Rhéanne Edge Lorraine (Ingram) Gibbs RIV Gr. 11 ’43 Allyson (Treleaven) Hannaford ’71 Erika Hoskins Olivia Duan & Hang Jiang Tim & Sukhi Johal 20
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Kira McCann Jennifer McDonald & Family Colleen McGuinness ’66 James McPherson Dr. Ahmed Mohammed & Fairouz Mothana Heather Baxter-Naughten Darren & Tamra Ogilvie Sophia Mapara & Joseph Ojah Terry & Susan Palmer Margaret Paterson Simone Penner Ethel I. Perchaluk, grandmother of Claire ’14 & Grace ’16 Perchaluk Susan & Bob Piper Karen (Jones) Pipes ’60 Linda (Leach) Radcliffe ’63 Don & Janina Smith, grandparents of Zoe ’20 and Kendra ’29 Zaretzky Ruth (Simonds) Smith RLS ’48 Beth (Secter) Steinberg ’89 Signy Stewart ’74 The ten Krooden Family Douglas, Arda & Ella ’13 Thomson Valerie (Ternan) Tih ’89 Rita Trautmann Wang-Li Family Yu Wang & Yong Jia Josh Weinstein & Brenlee Schacter Guy & Catherine Wilde The Yackel Family Jack Zhang & Yingjie Lu Tong Wang & Bing Zhao 15 Anonymous
GIFTS UP TO $249 The Ahmadi Family Tim Anderson & Doug Brown Arthur & Shirley Au, grandparents of Carrington Dong ’21 Aynsley Baldwin ’99 Roland Bazinet, grandfather of Gabrielle Williams ’26 Janet (Bleeks) Beeman ’51 Richard & Seta Bernhardt Peter & Julie Bocek, grandparents of Amaya De Lande ’29 The Borrett Family Colleen Braun Walter & Edith Braun, grandparents of Sarah ’18 & Charlotte ’20 Kowall
Doug & Betty Broadhurst, grandparents of Reegan Boychuk ’24 Jenna Brown ’08 Ashley Buckle ’12 The LeBlanc-Buckle Family Adam Burgener & Megan Kelly Albert & Diane Cain, grandparents of Hope Johnson ’22 Alexandra Campbell ’08 Gary & Susan Campbell Cerar-Owczarek Family Anthony Chau & Betty Kwan Sharla Chochinov Ted & Sheila Chop, grandparents of Gabrielle Andreas ’28 Joan Christie Judy & Kent Christie Marilyn Clarke Genevieve Cloutier ’03 Sarah Coates ’00
SPOTLIGHT ON DONORS
THE BENIDICKSON FAMILY At the cornerstone of every campaign are those special donors who are more than generous. They are believers. They jump right in to provide their loyal support to an initiative in its earliest stages. Five years ago, Kristjan & Shirley Benidickson were among the first to share our belief in igniting a girl’s creativity by offering her a space to inspire imagination. The Benidicksons speak with pride about their daughter, Kirsten ’18, Kristjan’s mother, Agnes M. (Richardson) Benidickson RIV Gr. 11 ’37, and their family’s support throughout school history.
“We commend Balmoral Hall School for your relentless determination and incredible persistence in moving forward with the Centre for Arts & Design,” conveys Mr. Benidickson. “There were dozens upon dozens of individuals involved. We were pleased to have been a part of that process, and now we are even more pleased by a successful outcome.” Balmoral Hall School extends most sincere gratitude to Kristjan & Shirley Benidickson for their unwavering support of the campaign and significant impact on girls’ education. Balmoral Hall is pleased to offer a naming opportunity of a space in the Centre for Arts & Design in recognition of their leadership gift.
Scott & Christine Cockerill Jared & Kathleen Cook Paola Cordova ’97 Rachel Cosman ’08 Emily Crewson, grandmother of Charlotte Crewson ’23 Reza Dalirpour & Zakieh Ghaemi Autumn DeHart Trish Del Grosso Steeds Roger & Geneviève Delaquis Jan Delmonico-Gibson Devon Dunning Angela (Nichol) Dyborn ’85 Lindsey Fennell Jennifer Fenwick Blake Fitzpatrick & Shelley Betton, grandparents of Payton ’27 & Charlotte ’30 Procter Kathleen (Murray) Ford RIV Grade 11 ’38 Harris Forsythe Matthew Gelley Susan Tessler & David Gillies, grandparents of Olivia Gilles ’28 Rita Globa Carolyn (Dowler) Graham RIV ’48 Vicki Griffiths ’67 Rosemary Hanna ’63 Jolene Harvey ’93 Glenda Heinrichs Tara-Lea Herkert ’95 Lisa Reid Audiology Dr. Amanda Huminicki ’03 Sheila Hunter Jeff Hyman & Elana Sasley IBM Canada Limited Roxanne Ilagan ’08 Joseph & Enid Jones, grandparents of Pixel ’20 & Mika ’30 Heller Marija Kalic Arlen & Tammy Kasdorf Adrienne Katz, grandmother of Bailee Finkleman ’28 Daniel & Jaimie Kehler Imeke Kerr, grandmother of Mila Kerr ’25 Evelyn (Crowhurst) Kitteringham RLS ’47 Mark and Dana (Delapenha-Dobbin) Kliewer ’03 Amanda Kostyk Sylvia Krenn Kriening Family Joan C.M. Laird ’53 (1935-2017) Brian, Michelle & Anna ’19 Layte The Jacoby-Lecce Family George & Laura Ledochowski, grandparents of Michelle Pawluk ’10
Marilyn (Hawkins) Leggett ’60 Jason Leibert & A.D. Zallack Nancy Leigh Stevan Leipsic Keith & Linda Levit Jun Liu & Qi Zheng George Loewen & Jessica Wat Robert & Shirley Lynch, grandparents of Grace Lynch ’20 Laura MacDougall Kathryn Marcynuk ’07 & Matthew Kulasza Stephen & Minal Marr John Martyniw, grandfather of Abigail ’29 & Elizabeth ’31 Martyniw Maria Mathwig Ryan & Elise Mayberry Brenda McConaghy Dan & Kirsten McConnell The Thrall Family Kaitlyn McIntosh ’14 Andrea Legary & Fraser McLean Erhard & Theresa Meier, grandparents of Olivia ’17 & Claire ’18 Meier Donna (Lowery) Miller Gr. 11 ’56, grandmother of Claire Cockerill ’23 Mireille Millette Bill & Sheila Milner, grandparents of Elizabeth ’11 & Julia ’14 White Kenny Miswaggon Anita Moeller Julian & Teri Moffatt The Mulvey Family Audrey (Van Slyck) Murray RLS Gr. 11 ’47 Richard Ndlovu Elspeth (Young) Nickerson RLS Gr. 11 ’45 Rachel Niessen Dennis & Brenda Nikkel Nowicki/Gaynor Family Judy Olmstead-Coss, grandmother of Zara Kasdorf ’28 Rhonda Owen James & Irene Palmer The Peterson Family Lisa (Evans) Plocktis ’78 John Prendergast, grandfather of Lauren King ’22 Tina Pritchard, aunt of Avery Nash Bowness Martti Raito & Anne-Marie Bishop, grandparents of Sienna Bater ’25 André & Denise Rémillard, grandparents of Daulat ’28, Sameera ’29 and Inaara ’30 Kabani Dr. D. Rush & Dr. N. Rush, grandparents of Emilia ’30 & Isabella ’32 Sirski The Safiniuk Family
Alan & Rebecca Schacter, grandparents of Samantha Weinstein ’27 Arthur & Margaret Schamp, grandparents of Alexandra ’20 & Makeda ’23 Davis Stuart & Laila Schwartz Baljit & Malkit Sidhu, grandparents of Riyana Sidhu ’30 Bill & Michelle Silverberg, grandparents of Lily Rich ’23 Bob Sly & Lynn Romeo Richard & Alice Small, grandparents of Alyssa Kalaitzakis ’23 Christine Snodgrass ’92 The Sonoiki Family Dr. Christy (Kolt) Staniforth ’03 Harrison Steek & Margaret DeGagne Pachal-Stewart Family Erna & Doug Stiles, grandparents of Autumn DeHart ’29 Qiang Su & Li Wang Sundararajan Family Cassandra Taylor ’12 Catherine (Coughlin) Thiessen ’78 Kim Thomas Sophia Torcia Alison (Wadge) Thomson ’72 Riley & Bo West M. & W. West, grandparents of Ayla Nguyen ’26 White Rose Foundation Inc. Olivia Wilde ’19 Nathan & Elizabeth Willis Sheila Wolfe, grandmother of Olivia Wilde ’19 Royce & Sharon Yackel, grandparents of Kara Yackel ’22 Loy & Irene Yeo Robyn Zajac ’08 Diana (Page) Zambonelli RLS ’46 Tim & Amber Zaretzky Jessie Zhang Luke Zhu & Sylvia Wu Dr. Kenneth & Mrs. Lori Zimmer Dave & Laura Zimmerman Stephanie (Webster) Zinko ’10 21 Anonymous
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CRESTLINES 2010s Alycia Leafloor ’16 My daughter, Keeva-Rose Walter Leafloor, was born August 2, 2019 at Women’s Hospital in Winnipeg. She was 8 lbs. 4 oz. at birth and 21 in. Samantha Moreau ’13 I recently graduated from University of Manitoba’s Faculty of Pharmacy, and I am excited to start my career. Emily (Quinton) Mitchell ’11 Junior School Faculty On August 12, 2019, at 6:22 p.m., Rhys and I welcomed a precious little boy, Jamie Quinton Mitchell, into the world! He is 8 lbs. 4 oz. and 19.5 in. We are totally in love with him and look forward to introducing him to the BH family. Palmer Nowak ’11 I moved back to Winnipeg in February after spending nearly eight years in Ontario. I studied finance and economics at University of Toronto, worked in the finance industry for about three years, and then made a major life change to pursue my true passions — food, cooking, and entrepreneurship. I worked my way up to head chef at a catering company in Kingston, then an amazing opportunity came up in my life! I moved back to Winnipeg to work with my mother to run our new store, Supper Central, located in Winnipeg’s South End (Kenaston Commons). I am so thrilled to be back in Winnipeg and part of the Winnipeg business community. I was married on September 2, 2019 and just bought my first house. I would love to connect with fellow alumnae and students. Come by and visit me at the store anytime!
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2000s Kaitlin Briggs ’05 I welcomed Andi Claire on June 12, 2019. Genevieve Cloutier ’03 I married my sweetheart of 10 years, Jason Goldstine, on August 4, 2019 at The Met in Winnipeg. It was the best day!
Laura (Lemon) Wetton ’03 BH Beginnings Parent Board of Governors My husband Steve and I are happy to announce the arrival of our second daughter, Alina Mary Jocelyn Wetton, on April 6, 2019. Everyone is doing very well, and Kiera is especially proud and excited to be a big sister now! Sarah Briggs ’02 I welcomed Miles Gerry Briggs on February 11, 2019. Marcie Hawranik ’02 I recently launched a small business with a social conscience called Madame Premier. We sell feminist political apparel for the entire political family, including luxury high-quality unisex t-shirts and sweaters, toddler t-shirts, and baby onesies. The business aims to shed a light on the lack of women in politics, spark dialogue on the issue, and empower more women to become engaged in politics or run for office. A portion of every sale is donated to a local charity to advance women and girls and gender equality. Check out our products and philosophy at madamepremier.ca.
Aliza Sharfe ’02 My husband and I welcomed our first baby into the world on June 20, 2019, Maya Georgina Henry. Ashleigh Sprange ’01 My husband, Andrew Burns, and I are excited to share the news of the arrival of our firstborn, Parker David Jackson Burns. He arrived a little earlier than expected on July 27, 2019, and the whole family is doing well settling into a new routine. This is also the first grandchild for Leslie (Stovel) Sprange ’67. She has loved taking on the role of Parker’s Nana and is already spoiling him rotten! Sarah Coates ’00 This is our boy, Oliver, doing what he loves to do best — smile, be in the water, and explore! He was born August 20, 2018, and we celebrated his first birthday “bikepacking” in Montana and Alberta. It has been an incredible year of growth, joy, and discovery for us as a family. Thanks to everyone in the BH branch of our family for all the extra love sent our way in North Vancouver, B.C.
1990s Johanna (Forster) Greco ’99 We added to our family on June 25, 2019. I gave birth to a baby boy, Greyson Greco. (This is him at one month old.) We are settling in to our new roles as parents.
Claire Booth ’91 My book, The Achiever Fever Cure: How I Learned to Stop Striving Myself Crazy, came out a few months ago and was featured on CTV’s The Social, The Marilyn Denis Show, Global News, and CBC Radio One. I am a speaker, writer, entrepreneur, and, as CEO of Lux Insights, a market research agency with offices in Vancouver and Seattle, I was named Best Employer of 2019 by Small Business BC.
1980s Takako Suzuki ’89 I was invited to take the Imperial Russia Trans-Siberian train to travel for two weeks promoting tourism in April. It was my second trip to Russia and another unique and unforgettable experience. In May, I was appointed subleader of the Japanese Youth Goodwill Mission program. We visited Lithuania and Austria in September. I am happy to work for students and young adults who are interested in going abroad to learn. I am also working as a member of Shizuoka-shi Administrative and Financial Reform Provisional Council. Ashleigh Banfield ’85 Last spring, I launched a new show called Live Rescue, airing on A&E. It follows first responders, live, as they tackle emergencies in the field. I have just started my 32nd year in live television spanning NBC, ABC, and CNN as well as various local news outlets. Alison Sims-VanZyl ’83 My daughter, Erin, received a Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship for her Ph.D. work on slicing inhibition and the unfolded protein response. Without a doubt, Ms Schomberg elevated my interest in science, and I certainly share that with Erin. The brains I cannot take credit for, but some of the chatter around how interesting it all is I can. Jane (Kellock) Hladky ’80 We just celebrated our 30th anniversary! I am enjoying semi-retirement, working part-time as a clinical physician liaison in diagnostic imaging.
1970s Elizabeth (McDonald) Gage ’78 Floating on noodles at my cottage on Lake of the Woods, while reminiscing about inventing swing tag, a group of alumnae and friends (1976–79) suddenly burst into a rendition of Blake’s “Jerusalem.” With feet stretched towards the heavens, “… those feet in ancient time,” not one verse of the school hymn was missed! Included in the impromptu gathering and a delicious lunch were: Lorraine Ashdown-Stone, Cindy Shore, Sara (Richardson) Thomson, Leslie (Konantz) Landell, Jennifer (Reid) Fast, Alex (Banfield) Sawchyn, and me. Missed were: Drew (Salter) Sidebottom and Mary Grace Ashdown-Durst, who were also avid swing taggers; unfortunately, they had forgotten their noodles at home. Lisa Shore ’75 This has been an extra special year as our family has grown once again in July with the birth of my seventh grandchild, Winnie Xara Boylen, born to my daughter, Kristin. I spent a month in Pemberton, B.C. with Kristin and my other daughter, Erin, and her two boys, who had come up from Portland. I have recently published my second book, Mother Nature’s Kiss. It is a dreamy bedtime story about looking out over a lake and letting your mind take you into outer space and back. It is the perfect bedtime story for anyone who loves the magic of a starry night. Also, for the little ones in your life, don’t forget about my first book, Gifts of the Crysnix, a great read for ages nine and up about the power of believing in yourself. Both books are available on Amazon and at McNally Robinson.
site where the Shackleton expedition was marooned! The icebergs, whales, sea leopards, and penguins were awesome. April — a trip to New York for a few days of sightseeing and theatre, where we saw Come From Away, the outstanding Tony-winning musical! In November, I will be off to Myanmar for three weeks after enjoying a wonderful summer at home. Susan Riley Gr. 11 ’63 I won a bronze medal at Independent Publisher Book Awards presented in New York City in May for my second book, Larry’s Last Resort. My partner and I attended the awards night at Copacabana Times Square.
1950s Gail (Burrows) Cipryk Gr. 11 ’56 Submitted by Nancy Cipryk ’86 This was my Mom’s 80th with Daphne (Smith) Ethans and Donna (Lowery) Miller, both from her year, me, and Jill Munro ’85. What a great day! This was a couple of days before Daphne’s husband, Teno, passed away. He was one of my Dad’s oldest friends and she my Mom’s.
1940s Martha (Grimble) Innes RLS ’46 Recently, I had lunch with Billie (Baker) McNichol RLS Gr. 11 ’46 and Amy (Best) Wadley RLS ’45 at Dundas Valley Golf and Curling Club. We had a good visit for about three hours! All are in good shape!
1960s Heather “Joanne” (Brodie) Melidones ’65 The year began with a trip to Buenos Aries in January, then on to Antarctica for 10 days. The weather was perfect, with sunshine except for our day at Elephant Island, the THE PORTAL | FALL 2019
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1930s Joan Elizabeth “Betty” Johannsson RLS ’39 Betty passed away on September 2, 2018. She enjoyed people, life, and family. She was a painter, golfer, and bridge player. She will be dearly missed by nieces Susan Foster ’63 and Judy Shantz ’60.
IN MEMORIAM
1940s Margaret (Winstanley) Devlin RIV Gr. 11 ’41 Margaret passed away in Vancouver on June 14, 2018. She graduated from University of Manitoba before moving to Vancouver and marrying Des in 1952. A voracious reader with a sardonic wit, she loved her garden, travel, walks with her dogs, family dinners, and holiday celebrations with her renowned trivia quizzes. Above all, she treasured her family. Jean (McNern) McWilliams RIV Gr. 11 ’42 Jean passed away on August 21, 2018. Born in Edmonton, she grew up in Wainwright, Alta., coming to Winnipeg to attend Riverbend where she made lifelong friends. While attending school, she met her husband, Bill, who was serving in the air force. Family and friends were very important to Jean, and she spent many happy summers at Whytewold. She loved to travel, and she enjoyed sewing, crewel embroidery, knitting, genealogy, gardening, badminton, and bridge. Anne Duffin RLS ’43 Anne passed away peacefully at Princess of Wales Hospital in Bridgend, England on January 2, 2019. Lorraine (Ingram) Gibbs RIV Gr. 11 ’43 Lorraine passed away after a brief illness on October 16, 2018. She was born at her family home on Niagara Street and attended Queenston School, Robert H. Smith, and Riverbend. Following marriage to Mel, they settled in Silver Heights to raise their family. Lorraine was a member of The Junior League of Winnipeg, Winnipeg Winter Club as a past president of the ladies curling section, and St. Charles Country Club. She loved gardening and composing poetry.
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Kathleen Richardson RIV ’44 Kathleen passed away peacefully with family and friends by her side on September 14, 2019. She was sister to Agnes M. (Richardson) Benidickson RIV Gr. 11 ’37, Hon. James A. Richardson, and George T. Richardson, all of whom predeceased her. She will be remembered by sisters-in-law, Shirley (Rooper) Richardson RIV Gr. 11 ’41 (James) and Tannis (Thorlakson) Richardson RLS ’44 (George). Kathleen was adored by many nieces and nephews. Known simply as “Aunt,” Kathleen was a confidante, counsellor, travel companion, storyteller, and picnic partner to all. Educated at Riverbend School, Bishop Strachan School, and University of Manitoba, Kathleen graduated with a B.A. (1949) and received her Hon. Doctor of Laws (1989). She was appointed to The Order of Canada (O.C. in 1973 and C.C. in 1994), as well as The Order of Manitoba (2005). Kathleen also received the following: University of Manitoba Jubilee Award; Edmund C. Bovey Award, and many arts awards. Kathleen served as a Director of James Richardson & Sons, Ltd. from 1954–98. She held numerous other corporate board appointments including Sun Life Assurance Company, Barclays Bank of Canada, and Gulf Canada Ltd. While in the vanguard of women serving on major corporate boards, it is for Kathleen’s unwavering commitment to the arts in Winnipeg and across Canada that she is most fondly remembered, including her commitment to elevating Royal Winnipeg Ballet to its world-class status. Among the numerous successes achieved on behalf of RWB, Kathleen chaired the fundraising campaign for its permanent home, which opened in 1988. Her other community involvements were extensive and included Pan-Am
Games Society, Manitoba Arts Council, The Winnipeg Foundation, and Winnipeg Art Gallery, to name just a few. Throughout her life, Kathleen remained a quiet philanthropist. She contributed to numerous worthwhile causes and was a great supporter of Balmoral Hall School. Always preferring to remain anonymous, Kathleen’s extraordinary generosity improved outcomes for individuals, organizations, and communities across Canada. She believed strongly in the words often quoted by her mother, Muriel: “Unto whom much is given, much is also required.” To all her encounters and endeavours, she brought an abundance of common sense, infinite patience, and a remarkable sense of humour. Businesswoman, community volunteer, champion of the arts, proud Canadian, and much-loved friend, Kathleen will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Roberta (Bringhurst) Patrick RIV Gr. 11 ’45 Roberta died on May 8, 2018. She came to Winnipeg as a child and graduated from university, subsequently becoming a secretary in higher administration. There, in the air force, she met her husband, and they were stationed overseas for five years before returning to Ottawa. She was a loving mother who cared deeply about her family. She greatly enjoyed sailing in the summers. Donna (Kelley) Ford RLS Gr. 11 ’47 Donna passed away suddenly in Almonte, Ont. on March 6, 2018. She loved the lake. Her family hosted air force staff during the war. She graduated with a science degree from University of Manitoba. She married and moved to England for four years, then settled in the Ottawa area. During retirement, they travelled North America, loved their time at the cottage on Clayton Lake, and often visited Winnipeg. She loved reading, gardening, knitting prayer shawls, and church life. Betty Jo (Ball) Johnston RLS Gr. 11 ’47 Betty Jo died on August 30, 2019 at her home, with her husband, Ross, by her side. A sweet and gentle soul, Betty Jo was never still. She deeply loved her family and traditions. She was rarely ill and never
complained. As a child, she attended St. Stephen’s Broadway Church every Sunday. She graduated RLS as House Head. Betty Jo graduated with a B.Sc. in home economics from University of Manitoba and with a dietetic internship at University of Minnesota. She worked in hospitals and later as a consulting dietician in several communities and was President of Manitoba Association of Registered Dietitians. She was an excellent cook, mother of four, and avid volunteer. Betty Jo enjoyed reading, sewing, knitting, bridge, badminton, dance aerobics, cross-country skiing, theatre, ballet, travel, and playing the piano. Esme (Nanton) Lyons RLS Gr. 11 ’47 Esme passed away July 4, 2018, with her family holding her hands. She attended University of Manitoba. Summers were spent at the family cottage on Lake of the Woods. She lived in London after the war with her aunt. She lived in Montreal and worked at The Neuro (Montreal Neurological Institute– Hospital), as well as TWA and Air Canada. Moving to Mississauga with her husband and family, she worked for Mississauga News and Ontario Lottery Corporation, delivering lottery tickets. Esme painted, crafted pottery, sewed, and had an eye for style. Mary (Mathers) Shelton RIV Gr. 11 ’47 Mary died peacefully on June 6, 2019 at Victoria Hospice. Her life was rich with words. At a young age, she became fluent in English, Latin, and French, choosing the latter as the focus for her Master’s degree from Smith College. Mary also studied German and Italian, and later in life earned another B.A. in Classical Greek, a translator accreditation, plus three years of theological seminar. When Mary wasn’t learning, she was teaching in France and at University of Victoria. An ardent traveller, she favored unusual destinations for her time. Whether it was European backpacking, visiting communist Russia, trekking the Andes, or later world voyages on a comfortable cruise ship, Mary was always game to hit the road. Mary and George adopted a daughter and a son and soon after gave birth to a newborn with Down syndrome. Mary became a hands-on
advocate for people with mental impairments. She was a talented seamstress and an active member of St. Luke Anglican Church.
Los Angeles, and Vancouver. A kind and caring soul, she was always interested in other people rather than focusing on herself.
Elizabeth Ann (Brooking) Boulton RIV Gr. 11 ’48 On April 27, 2019, Betty Ann passed away with her son by her side. Left to mourn her are her sister Gail (Brooking) Matthews Gr. 11 ’54, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. After graduation she attended secretarial college and worked at Red Cross until she married Ted. Together they raised four children and spent the summers at West Hawk Lake and then Lake of the Woods to sail. Winter weekends were spent skiing at Agassiz. She volunteered at The Junior League and liked flying, skiing, water skiing, tap dancing, tai chi, Pilates, and gourmet cooking. She created a travelling puppet show, Rupert’s Puppets, and managed the UNICEF office in Winnipeg until she retired.
Elizabeth (Hamilton) Bowman ’53 Liz passed away on April 15, 2019. In school she developed a love of dance and musical theatre. She was a stay-at-home mom, then worked as a secretary in Assiniboine South School Division. In her younger days, Liz volunteered at Roblin Park Community Club, RWB, and then more recently at Winnipeg Harvest. She played tennis and badminton and loved swimming, too. She was an active member of a senior synchronized swimming group. She enjoyed the ballet, the opera, reading, spending time at Victoria Beach, and travelling to warmer places.
Rosalind (Johnson) (Forbes) Robertson RLS Gr. 11 ’48 Ros died on March 26, 2018 in Woodstock, New York. She was one of three girls. She attended University of Manitoba where she graduated in Architecture with a Master’s in town planning. Ros was a hard worker and single parent. She worked to provide for her young son and rose to the pinnacle of her profession as Winnipeg’s Chief City Planner and Winnipeg’s most senior female civil servant at the time. In later years, she completed two degrees in fine arts at University of British Columbia and Alfred University and then a Master of Fine Arts at SUNY New Paltz. Her favourite place to make art was Sammy’s Beach on Long Island where her ashes were spread.
1950s Ruth (Gonick) Moscovitch ’52 Ruth passed peacefully on December 24, 2018. Growing up she spent many summers at Winnipeg Beach. She completed secretarial school and was a caregiver. She always kept up with current events, politics, and the Jets. She enjoyed summers with her family in Clear Lake, trips to Palm Springs, Florida,
Yvonne (Bircher) Clark ’53 Yvonne passed away on May 11, 2019 in Bedford, England. She attended Rupert’s Land School during WWII. Her mother brought Yvonne and siblings to live in her native Winnipeg for much of the war. During this time, they spent summers on the family island at Lake of the Woods. Yvonne’s memories of Rupert’s Land were happy ones, as she attended reunions in London. Anne (Jenkins) Doherty ’53 Anne passed away on May 31, 2019. She attended University of Manitoba and started her career writing at Winnipeg Free Press. Anne became Executive Director of Manitoba Chamber of Commerce and worked in marketing at both Royal Winnipeg Ballet and Western Canada Lottery Corporation. Her love of flowers and entrepreneurial spirit soon found her owning a Grower Direct store. She was a talented figure skater and a Canadian and International Skating Union judge, a Past Chairperson of Skate Canada – Manitoba, and inducted into Skate Canada – Manitoba Honour Society. Anne loved Matlock, was concerned about the health of Lake Winnipeg, and served as a founding board member of Lake Winnipeg Foundation.
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lend an ear when needed. Gail (MacDonald) Konantz ’53 Submitted by Leslie (Konantz) Landell ’78 Mum died at home on May 14, 2018. She was one of your youngest boarders at age 6 and kept a long connection with the school, returning to teach art for several years. Summers were spent at camps until age 10 and then with generous relatives at Lake of the Woods every year until she was married. After receiving an undergraduate degree and later a Master of Fine Arts from University of Manitoba, she worked at Winnipeg Art Gallery and taught art for six years at Balmoral Hall. The awkwardness of putting my hand up in class when I attended the school and asking, “Mum, I mean, Mrs. Konantz, I have a question …” has been a source of mirth over the years. At her celebration of life, there were many BHers in our midst. She was a determined marathon runner, competitive sailor, fierce cyclist and hiker, prolific artist, genealogist, and dragon boater. Joan (Malaher) Williams ’53 Meliora Petens Legacy Society – Nellie Lucas Fund Joan passed on March 13, 2019. She was born in Edmonton and resided in Winnipeg, Montreal, and, for the last 28 years, in Saanichton, B.C. Joan’s early career teaching nursing at Winnipeg General Hospital and as a nurse at The Neuro (Montreal Neurological Institute–Hospital) was in keeping with her true passion and gift for helping others. Volunteering at schools and later in life with Sendial (Thrifty Foods) and other community organizations, supporting numerous charities, and bringing a smile and offering a helping hand wherever she could, were her life’s devotion. Betty-Lou (McPhail) Phillips Gr. 11 ’54 Meliora Petens Legacy Society Suddenly, on November 27, 2018, Betty-Lou passed away at Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital. She enjoyed listening to classical music, reading, painting, keeping up with The Royal Family, and philanthropy. She also enjoyed knitting beautiful sweaters, jackets, and blankets for her cherished family and friends. Boo was a generous, loving lady at heart who always took the time to support and 26
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Bernice (Prodor) Kosiur ’59 Bernice passed away on June 8, 2018.
1960s Dilys (White) Machej Gr. 11 ’61 Dilys passed on October 28, 2017 following a longterm battle with breast cancer. She is survived by sisters, Dianne Kennedy ’54 and Deidre Buechler Gr. 11 ’60, and she was predeceased by sister, Daphne Lindsay RIV Gr. 11 ’49. Dilys lived across Canada, creating a home and friendships wherever she went. Her family recently named a bench in her memory at Credit Valley Hospital in Mississauga, where she received treatment throughout her illness. Diana Mathewson ’61 Diana passed away on May 3, 2019. She loved horses, riding for many years, and she was a skilled bowler. She was a passionate supporter of Winnipeg and enjoyed cheering on our home teams, especially the Blue Bombers. She was outgoing and loved to share smiles, jokes, and laughter. She was always cheerful and energetic, and delighted in meeting new people. Zivia Linder ’66 Zivia passed away on September 5, 2018. She attended University of Las Vegas. As a young woman she was involved with school plays, horseback riding, and travel with her parents. Naturally an extrovert, she loved to laugh and enjoyed everyone she met. Her friends would refer to her as “a real character,” optimized by her multicoloured nail polish, crazy hair, cowboy hat, and a ready smile for everyone.
1970s Laura Maguire ’78 Laura passed away late 2017.
1980s Susan Graham ’81 Susan passed away suddenly on July 7, 2019 at Lake of the Woods. In all that she did – whether as Head Girl, completing her Bachelor of Recreation from University of Manitoba, and raising funds to build Canadian Museum for Human Rights and to support Health Sciences Centre Foundation – Sue acted with
integrity, respect, and kindness. She had vision and commitment, working at Medallion Milk and serving on the board of CancerCare Manitoba Foundation at the time of her passing. Known for her open-hearted hospitality, Sue was easy to talk with and offered fair and wise counsel without judgment. Profoundly grateful for all that she had in her life, Sue’s laugh was contagious, and she inspired those around her to become the best they could be. Terri Lee (Clarke) Dowhy ’85 Terri Lee suddenly passed on September 5, 2019. Terri spent her youth in Lynn Lake, Man. and enjoyed all the activities it had to offer. She participated in many activities through school and church; there was nothing Terri would not try. After graduating from Balmoral Hall, she enjoyed her careers managing women’s clothing stores, flight attending, and, more recently, working in private school administration. In 2000, Terri’s husband’s career as a pilot moved them and their two children to Bahrain. Terri and children came home every summer to visit with family and friends and spend time at the lake.
STAFF Patricia Conchâtre Pat passed away on August 8, 2019. She was born in Montreal. From an early age, she was dedicated to children and teaching. She achieved a Bachelor of Education, with a focus in Special Education. She believed every child could be taught, achieve their potential, and beyond. She taught in Quebec, and, after moving to Winnipeg, joined Lions Learning Centre and then Balmoral Hall, where she combined all of her passions — the empowerment of girls and women, innovation, and creating programming unique to the needs of each individual student. Teaching was her calling. Volunteerism was one of her core beliefs, be it in the classroom or for a particular organization. She loved her family and dogs.
Eileen Rieger Eileen passed away on April 3, 2019. She is survived by her daughter, Nicolette Rieger ’91. Eileen was born in Kimberley, South Africa and lived there until she came to Canada in 1972, living in Melville, Sask. In 1985, she moved to Winnipeg and became Dean of Residence for Royal Winnipeg Ballet and later for Balmoral Hall, and then she worked at Top Hat Florist. Eileen was a longtime parishioner of St. Mary’s Cathedral and a member of The Catholic Women’s League of Canada. Adriana (Albertini) Sabbadini Adriana passed away last January. She was a muchloved physics and math teacher. Remembering Elsie Bartlett & Sylvia Turner Submitted by Martha (Grimble) Innes RLS ’46 My daughter and I recently visited the graves of Elsie Bartlett and Sylvia Turner; they are buried in a lovely graveyard that surrounds St. Andrew’s Anglican Church in Grimsby. My husband and I used to stop by from time to time to scrape off the encroaching grass, but, I had not been there for some time, and as you can see we did not get them entirely clean.
A Special Tribute from The Class of 2000 Simona Sara (Ioffe) Ackerman ’00 After a 15-month battle with cancer, our beloved Wonder Woman passed on at Bruyère Hospice in September 2018. Simona’s bravery and optimism in the face of her medical challenges were an inspiration to us all. She had an impact on anyone who knew her, regardless of the length of their relationship. Simona had a joyous laugh and infectious exuberance that instantly drew people to her. She selflessly gave of herself and was always ready with a thoughtful gift, sage advice, or simply to share her passions. She leaves behind her loving husband, Jonah, children Elijah, Phin, and Naomi, father, Semyon (Liz), siblings, Dimitry and Daniel, mother-in-law, Leah, and dear friends who shared the following words in italics, compiled by Sarah Coates ’00. The quotation belongs to Simona herself.
How do you trace the edges of her imprint on you, on who you were back then when you were cloudy-faced teenagers in plaid kilts, green socks, and shirts that never stayed tucked in? What is the form she takes, now that her human form is gone? And how do we know where she is, spread across countries, seas, and on the divergent paths our lives have taken in the nearly two decades since we gathered in white dresses, tossed white hats, and sang Irish blessings? Cheers to you, my childhood friend and amazing soul. I know you are the wind in the trees on these beautiful, long summer days. The clouds are all behind you now, beautiful Simona Sara Like a shooting star... How do you say goodbye to someone that was such a light to her family and friends? Reach for the stars ... I know you will be shining down on your family for the rest of their life. A beautiful ray, a light wherever she went and with whomever she met. And you believe in the light, as the eternal force that holds us together…
“ There is more beauty and kindness in the world than you could ever imagine.” May Simona’s family and friends continue to be warmed by the light of our beloved Wonder Woman.
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SARAH ZACHARIAS ’08 & REGAN BOULTON ’09 Interview by Jennifer J. Pawluk
On March 10, 2019, the BH Blazers won their first international championship since joining the highly regarded Junior Women’s Hockey League (JWHL) in the program’s third season, 2008/09. Winning the championship game in overtime versus North American Hockey Academy (NAHA), the Blazers ended the 2018/19 season with a historic victory. Behind the bench were Coach Sarah Zacharias, Class of 2008, and Assistant Coach Regan Boulton ’09. Jennifer J. Pawluk—What lessons will you carry with you after last season’s JWHL championship? Sarah Zacharias ’08—A tremendous feat, what I took away from that euphoric moment were all the challenges we had to overcome along the way. “Life is a journey, not a destination,” and reaching the summit for the first time in program history felt so much more special to me after reflecting on how much the team pushed each other and worked together all season long. We always looked at failures as an opportunity to learn and grow, and we were able to keep a positive mindset through each one we faced. When you can walk away from a game knowing that you worked hard and had fun, well, nothing else matters after that, and a championship just becomes the icing on top of the cake. JP—How have your own experiences as elite studentathletes impacted your coaching styles?
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“DISCIPLINE, SELFLESSNESS, RESPECT, PERSEVERANCE, ACCEPTANCE, AND FRIENDSHIP ARE ALL VALUES THAT ARE GAINED THROUGH THE EXPERIENCE OF SPORT.” Regan Boulton ’09—We have lived the strenuous, and sometimes stressful, lifestyle of an elite studentathlete, and so we understand firsthand just how difficult it can be to balance your schedule and stay both mentally and physically fit while maintaining grades and having some kind of a social life. We take extra care when planning our season. We always aim for balance with everything we do, and we listen to our players when they are feeling stressed or overwhelmed. JP—Why is it so crucial to you that the girls you coach become more than good all-around athletes, but, more importantly, good people?
SZ—Hockey is a means to an end. What you learn from the game matters most. Discipline, selflessness, respect, perseverance, acceptance, and friendship are all values that are gained through the experience of sport. Everyone’s hockey careers will eventually come to an end, and, when they do, looking back what you remember is not how many game-winning goals you scored, or how many big saves you made, but, rather, how you treated your teammates, and what they meant to you as friends.
ALUMNAE & DAUGHTERS Laura (Lemon) Wetton ’03 with her daughters, Kiera Wetton ’34 & Alina Wetton.
Natalia (Ksiazkiewicz) Longley ’01 and her daughter, Mila Longley ’31.
Andrea Rush-Sirski ’98 with her daughters, Emilia Sirski ’30 & Isabella Sirski ’32.
Dana (Delapenha-Dobbin) Kliewer ’03 with her daughter, Alicia Kliewer ’31.
Isha Khan ’91 with her daughters, Safiya Ratana ’22 & Zehra Ratana ’24.
Gail (Burrows) Cipryk Gr. 11 ’56 with her daughter, Nancy Cipryk ’86, and her granddaughters, Lura Klassen ’24 & Natalie Klassen ’26, along with Donna (Lowery) Miller Gr. 11 ’56 and her granddaughter, Claire Cockerill ’23.
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REUNIONS
CLASS OF 2004 CELEBRATING THEIR 15-YEAR REUNION, MAY 31, 2019 Balmoral Hall warmly welcomed the Class of 2004 for an afternoon of interactive activities with current and former faculty, staff, and students. We enjoyed attending the Doll Assembly and proudly sang “Best Friends” while joyfully swaying with our dear classmates and friends. We finished the day in Aikins House to catch up on everyone’s happenings from the past 15 years since graduation. We continued our reunion weekend with a delightful Saturday brunch and tour of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. Thank you for making our time back at BH so memorable!
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CLASS OF 1989 CELEBRATING THEIR 30-YEAR REUNION, JUNE 22, 2019
CLASS OF 1979 CELEBRATING THEIR 40-YEAR REUNION, JUNE 21, 2019
The Class of 1989 descended on Winnipeg from Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, and Denver for our 30th reunion, held June 21-23, 2019. Almost half the class attended the Friday night gathering at Earl’s Polo Park for drinks and dinner while reminiscing about locker room antics and canteen shenanigans! Some had not seen each other in 30 years, so there was a lot of catching up to do! Saturday morning brought warm welcome by Genevieve at Balmoral Hall and several teachers who made it out to see us before our school tour, including Mrs. Nicol, Mrs. Friesen, Mrs. Greenhill, Mr. Selby, and Mrs. Goldberg, and Mrs. Baillie joined us in the evening at our paint party! A smaller group met at one of our hangouts from the BH days, Mona Lisa Restaurant, where we had dinner followed by a private painting lesson. We all left that evening with beautiful lilac masterpieces (in honour of the lilacs that adorn the steps of Aikins House) and cherished memories of a warmhearted weekend together! Looking forward to our 40th in 2029!
After 40 years the Class of 1979 got together for a fabulous weekend in June! Old friends reacquainted, friendships renewed, and promises to stay in touch! Cheers to bathroom disco and friendships that stand the test of time!
UPCOMING REUNIONS The Class of 2009 will celebrate our 10th reunion on December 18, 2019, starting at Home for the Holidays. RSVP to Regan Boulton ’09 at rboulton@balmoralhall.ca for details. The Class of 1980, 40 years later, will meet up at Aikins House on June 12, 2020, 1–3 p.m., with dinner to follow. Additional festivities are being planned for June 13-14. The weekend will find us celebrating new connections, while exploring the present Balmoral Hall — oh, it’s changed! Please email Diane (Sidebottom) Roulston ’80 at dsidebottom4@gmail.com with your current contact information and help us get in touch with whoever else you are still connected to from our class. We hope to reach out to as many of us as possible. Looking forward to reconnecting! If you would like to coordinate a reunion celebration, please contact Genevieve Cloutier ’03, Alumnae Relations Coordinator. alumnae@balmoralhall.ca (204) 784-1616
MESSAGE FROM OUR ALUMNAE PREFECT We had these opportunities through a Passion Project in Grade 10 as well as a new Internship Program in Grade 11. Our University Guidance Program is there through it all to get us thinking about ourselves and our strengths. This could all be even better with your help. My goal this year as Alumnae Prefect is to connect as many students and alumnae as possible. A quick phone call, an in-person meeting, or even an email conversation can be a wonderful resource for students looking for guidance and wisdom.
Do you remember when you were in Grade 12? Did you know what you wanted to do with your life? Most of my friends are feeling a little uncertain about their futures as we approach graduation. We are told this is normal, but, in the blink of an eye, we are all going to follow different paths. Throughout Senior School, we have been encouraged to connect with people who work in the fields we are passionate about. Networking can be very powerful.
CONNECT WITH US
Last year, my basketball coaches were alumnae. As an intern, I connected with a Class of 2001 graduate about a career I am interested in pursuing. Many students benefit from alumnae volunteers. Thank you to those listed on this page and to the many more who I hope will get involved in the future. Between now and June 2020, if you are near campus, please stop by and I would be more than happy to give you a tour and show you what we’re up to next.
THANK YOU, ALUMNAE With our appreciation for your service to the Balmoral Hall School community. Editors’ note: We sincerely apologize if alumnae who volunteered at the school in 2018/19 were overlooked in compiling this list. Kirsten Benidickson ’18 Rachel Bernhardt ’18 Rachael Buchwald ’18 Mackenzie Guimond ’18 Erica Sandilands ’18 Danelle Creighton ’17 Morgan Dubyts ’17 Umema Rafay ’17 Maya Schwartz ’17 Alex Trann ’15 Eva Downey ’14 Brielle Kim ’14 Maddie Lischka ’13 Kailey Oxenforth ’11 Cella Rousseau ’11 Tatiana Rafter ’10 Victoria Taylor ’10 Katiana Krawchenko ’09 Ariana Meyers ’09
Alexandra Campbell ’08 Jenelle Kohanchuk ’08 Dr. Tayler van den Akker ’08 Kathryn Marcynuk ’07 Lisa Koss ’04 Laura (Lemon) Wetton ’03 Carla Goncalo ’01 Carla Pienaar ’01 Ainsley Donald ’98 Samantha Rayburn Trubyk ’96 Shauna Labman ’95 Isha Khan ’91 Hon. Heather (McDonald) Stefanson ’88 Michelle Ball ’87 Nancy Cipryk ’86 Deborah Metcalfe ’76 Joan (Rankin) Richardson ’69 Dr. Nancy McQuade ’67
A special thank you to alumnae who served on the Board of Governors and/or Foundation Board of Directors over the past year, those listed in bold type.
Sophie Delaquis ’20 Alumnae Prefect
ONLINE ARCHIVES Featuring all yearbooks dating back to 1910 and almost 2,000 photos. Fully searchable format, mobile friendly. Check it out, and search your name!
UPDATE YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION Have you recently moved, married, or changed your phone number and/or email address? Maybe you wonder why you no longer hear from us? Help us ensure future editions of The Portal, The e-Portal, and other alumnae communications reach you. Please keep your contact information up-to-date. Confirm yours today!
balmoralhall.com/archives
(204) 784-1616
GET INVOLVED BH girls need your support. Volunteers make a difference at panel interviews, debate and public speaking tournaments, and community events. As a mentor, student interns benefit from alumnae insights as they consider future careers. There are opportunities for everyone! alumnae@balmoralhall.ca THE PORTAL | FALL 2019
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Innovation Alley, Centre for Arts & Design
