The Head's Letter - RNS: Taking the Lead by Rothesay Netherwood School

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s never a dull moment at RNS ...

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T H E M A G A Z I N E O F R O T H E S AY N E T H E R W O O D S C H O O L | W I N T E R / S P R I N G 2 0 1 6

Headâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Comments

The Legacy of Paul Kitchen

Happy Retirement to Elizabeth Kitchen

Introducing the Next Head of School

Life on the Hill

Hill Highlights

Live Where You Learn

Front & Centre

Amazing Alumni

Giving Back to RNS

Class Gifts - A Tradition of Giving

Gatherings

Class Notes

Passings

Upcoming Events

ON THE COVER: Head of School, Paul Kitchen, shown in his office, will retire this June after 29 years at the helm of Rothesay Netherwood School.

The Headâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Letter is published twice a year by Rothesay Netherwood School for alumni, parents, grandparents, and friends of the school. Rothesay Netherwood School 40 College Hill Road, Rothesay, NB, E2E 5H1 Tel: 506.847.8224 Fax: 506.848.0851 www.rns.cc Head of School Paul G. Kitchen Paul.Kitchen@rns.cc Editor Jennifer Roos alumni@rns.cc Photography: Martin Flewwelling and members of the RNS Community.

This publication, or any of the information contained herein, may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written permission of the editor. All rights reserved. Printed in Atlantic Canada by Advocate Printing on recycled paper using environmentally-friendly inks. To help save paper, email alumni@rns.cc to join our e-magazine subscription list.

THE EDITOR’S NOTE JENNIFER ROOS | COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR When I first set out to put together this issue of The Head’s Letter, I was a bit daunted to say the least. After all, it’s Paul Kitchen’s retirement issue and I wanted it to be special. My first mistake, though, was thinking of this as a 'farewell edition.' Mr. Kitchen set me straight when I sat down to interview him for the feature piece The Legacy of Paul Kitchen (page 8). When I asked for any farewell words of wisdom, he rightly said that this is, in fact, not farewell. After all, when you’ve devoted more than 29 years along with your heart and soul to a community, you never really leave. Mr. Kitchen’s legacy will remain visible in our beautiful campus, our outstanding faculty and staff, and our quality programs. And even in retirement, I’m sure he’ll always be willing to lend a hand for RNS. When Mr. Kitchen “graduates” with the Class of 2016 this June, he’ll be joined by his wife, Elizabeth Kitchen, who is also retiring after 20 years of dedication to RNS. Take a look at page 16 to read about Mrs. Kitchen’s many contributions to the school. This issue also highlights the lead actors in our Senior School Musical, Curtains, who share with us why they were inspired to take on a leading role (see Front & Centre, page 32). And you’ll also get to meet Matt Forbes ’05 (page 36), who is no stranger to the stage. This RNS alumni got his start performing in the Théâtre Susan B. Ganong and now sings his blend of ‘vintage pop’ internationally promoting his debut full-length album, Coulda Woulda Shoulda. Other Amazing Alumni featured in this issue include Betty (Goodday) Mitham ’46 whose activ e lifestyle and dedication to helping others is an inspiration. There’s also Debbie Hackett ’87, a judge with the Court of Queen’s Bench of New Brunswick, and Matt Trivett ’07, who has turned a passion for gaming into a successful career as an eSports commentator. Hear from our next Head of School, Paul McLellan (page 18) and meet Patrick Nobbs (page 20), the new Director of Enrolment, who brings years of independent school experience to the RNS community. Flip through the pages, spot photos of your child, catch up with old friends, and enjoy a glimpse of the many exciting happenings here on the Hill.

HEAD’S COMMENTS PA U L G . K I T C H E N , H E A D O F S C H O O L

Thank you for 29 years!

I remember clearly in the summer of 1987 sitting down in South House and writing the first Head’s Letter to the RCS Netherwood Community. It was an opportunity to introduce myself, say hello, and begin the process of communication between me and the school and all its constituents. I have never been a great writer, although I have improved a little over the last 29 years. The proofing of that first Head’s Letter was embarrassingly poor. It was, though, the beginning of a wonderful relationship that I have had with hundreds and hundreds of alumni and school families. Together we set a renewed course for our school at the end of the 20th century and, early in the 21st century, we have built on that solid foundation. We have moved our school further ahead than I would ever have dreamed possible. My three small children that I brought to Rothesay that summer are all grown and happily married. Life has changed, moved forward, and a lot of water has passed under the bridge. But a few things have never changed. The youngest students in the school are still delightfully small and always 11 years old; the prefects continue to work hard offering leadership to the school, while at the same time being typical 16-, 17-, and 18-year-old kids doing what teenagers do. It is gratifying to know our students at RNS today are happy, work hard, grow, and find wonderful opportunities. One of the things that has changed dramatically, from my point of view, is the parents. When I first arrived, they all seemed a little bit older than me and I got the occasional, “My, you are awfully young to be the Head of a school.” Over those years the parents gradually

THE HEAD’S LETTER

started to look younger and younger and are now much younger than they ever used to be. These days, I often get the comment, “That’s a long time you have been here.” The dedicated teachers of 2016 have continued the RNS pattern of improvement. Today, teachers are busy coaching, doing duty, but they are also asked to seek excellence – to try to be leaders in their field so they can help make this school one of the country’s best. It has been a huge privilege to be part of the team that has changed RNS, to see Memorial Chapel bulging at the seams each morning (and the school still singing well most days), to have a school that offers financial aid to about a third of our students, and to have 275 students all going in the same direction is quite different from the RNS we inherited in 1987. I want to thank every student, every Board member, every faculty and staff member for their support, loyalty, and dedicated service to RNS. I would also like to thank every parent who trusted the school with their children. I haven’t always been able to agree with everyone and make everyone happy along the way, but I hope that even at the toughest moments, you were all treated with dignity and respect and that the school was good for every child in our care. Thank you. I will miss my RNS life very much.

WINTER/SPRING ’16

The Legacy of

Paul Kitchen

B Y J E N N I F E R R O O S , C O M M U N I C AT I O N S C O O R D I N AT O R

...I’m not really leaving RNS. I’m no longer going to be the Head, but RNS will be in my heart and part of my thinking for the rest of my life. I’ve given the best part of 30 years, every single day, to this school and I love this place and I’m going to continue to love it ...

THE HEAD’S LETTER

WINTER/SPRING ’16

leaving a legacy

art of being a great leader is knowing when

commitment to RNS that has prompted him to retire.

to step aside. And Paul Kitchen is, indeed, a

“I didn’t resign from this job because I don’t have the

great leader. For the past 29 years, he’s been

energy, or I don’t love kids, or don’t love the school,”

at the helm of Rothesay Netherwood School and

he says. “I’m retiring because I don’t think being

anyone who knows him would agree that there’s

Head of a boarding school is an older person’s job. I

nothing he’d love better than to remain Head of

think it’s a younger person’s job.

School for 29 more. “I think you need experience and moxy to do it, but Mr. Kitchen has been to every school play and

you need an extraordinary level of energy and you

musical, and not just on opening night. He attends

need consistent connection with the kids, parents,

every single performance. You’ll find him at every

faculty and staff, and I just don’t have that to the

Middle School Arts night listening to the sounds of

extent I used to.”

the bands and admiring the students’ artwork. This isn’t farewell, though. Every day at Chapel, he’s there ... Every lunch, he wouldn’t miss it ...

“I’m not really leaving RNS,” he adds.“I’m no longer

New River Beach ... yes, he’s there pulling his weight

going to be the Head, but RNS will be in my heart

in the student versus faculty/staff tug of war.

and part of my thinking for the rest of my life. I’ve

given the best part of 30 years, every single day, to Mr. Kitchen lives and breathes RNS. He loves

this school and I love this place and I’m going to

the school and it’s this unconditional love and

continue to love it. I don’t feel like I’m leaving it. I

I met Paul Kitchen in the early 1990’s when he showed up at my back door one day with Jack Hickman and suggested that I become involved at RCS Netherwood. I can truthfully say that the journey since that first visit has been a good one. While working with Paul on numerous projects, I came to respect his wide-ranging abilities. When he was appointed as Head, it was perhaps one of the best things to have happened at the school. Paul is a good resource problem solver and he has a true understanding and empathy for young people. He has also made great strides in developing the faculty and staff and, it is quite evident now that he is retiring, how all of his abilities came into play. I’ve really enjoyed working with Paul over the years and I wish both he and Mrs. Kitchen all the best in retirement. ~ JIM IRVING ’46

leaving a legacy feel like I’m leaving the job as Head.” When Mr. Kitchen “graduates” alongside the Class of 2016 this June, he might reflect on the many contributions he’s made to the school, which is quite a different place today than it was when he first arrived back in 1987. Mr. Kitchen remembers coming to the campus for the first time and what he found was a school in survival mode. “I remember coming for the cadet inspection on the 24th of May weekend in ’87 and the grass was really, really long ... I did some kicking around and asked, ‘Why is the grass so long?’ At that time, the ride-on mower had broken down sometime before that spring and they had one push mower for the whole campus ... I felt so badly for the school because it couldn’t afford the things it needed. “What I also remember is how much the school was loved and how much work had gone into keeping it open.” He points out that around that time other Atlantic Canadian independent schools much like RNS were closing their

Almost 15 years ago, Paul Kitchen hired me, and brought me and my family from our roots in southern Ontario to New Brunswick. And, while it is not possible to capture those many days with a poignant memory or a witty anecdote, I think people should know that since we first arrived Paul has made it his personal mission to ensure our family is happy. Almost every day for these past 15 years, Paul has committed a great part of himself to ensuring that he cared for my kids like they were part of his family. He has watched over me and my wife, as though we were his very own. It is a rare thing to know that there is someone in your life who is this committed to you – it is particularly special to have this person as your boss. While there are many things I love about living and working at this school, I think those things exist primarily because of the unconditional commitment Paul has made to me. I didn’t know, when I signed that first contract that I was not just getting a new boss, but I was getting one of those great friends that seem to come along so rarely. ~ DEAN VAN DOLEWEERD Assistant Head of School, Director of Middle School

doors. “Somehow RNS had stayed open. There was a spirit and intensity of love for this place that is different.” Mr. Kitchen acknowledges that he did bring a fresh set of eyes to the school and his experience teaching at Ridley College and St. Andrew’s College gave him “a good vision on what it took to run a boarding school right.” But he won’t take much of the credit for the school’s turn around. “There are so many people, so many companies, and individuals who have invested in the school,” he says, and he’s quick to point out Jack Hickman ’42 as being fundamental in the school’s growth. “At the very beginning, probably the biggest difference between when I first came and started perhaps ‘turning

I have had the great pleasure of working with Paul Kitchen for the past 18 years. During this time, RNS has enjoyed unprecedented growth in school size, student retention, quality personnel, breadth of programming, and the expansion and beautification of our campus. For most leaders this would be an impressive list of accomplishments, perhaps even something that is legacy worth. In my opinion, however, Paul’s true legacy is that he has taken a “little country school” as he likes to call it, and built an organization and community that is relevant in the Canadian landscape of independent schools and, in many ways, represents the gold standard for education in our province and country. I think he would tell you that this legacy was built with hard work, courage, and a little good fortune. ~ PAUL MCLELLAN Assistant Head of School, Director of Senior School

leaving a legacy things in the right direction,’ was that Jack Hickman had

changes kids lives more than having a great teacher

started the campaign, A Call to Excellence.

putting them in the right circumstances.”

“He started that campaign in 1984, and we ran that

Mr. Kitchen believes that RNS is a better place today

campaign through to ’91, for seven years. He raised

“because the teachers work so hard.” He adds that “it’s

approximately 1.4 million dollars in those seven years ...

better because our administrative staff work relentlessly

Jack and I spent every penny in the most precious way.

with our school community who, in turn, are so generous

That money was transformational. It edged the place

in their contributions to help make this campus better.

forward.”

It’s better because our financial future is better and our endowment is growing and the students are stronger

Because of that campaign, the school was able to buy a

than ever. They’re having more success in life.

“flailer” that attached to the back of the tractor which meant the fields could now be mowed. This helped

“I think the RNS community is working and the

transition the school from survival mode to “an every

alumni and the parents are making huge sacrifices and

blade of grass has to be cut mode.” The squash courts were also built from money raised through the campaign and while Mr. Kitchen admits that it’s 12

not the most attractive building on campus, “it was a statement that this school is going ahead.” During Mr. Kitchen’s 29 years as Head of School, the campus has been transformed. Unsightly telephone and electrical wires were buried, and the “Ring Road” was built moving

Great teaching is a very special thing and nothing changes kids lives more than having a great teacher putting them in the right circumstances.

traffic around the campus. Several

commitments. The students are working diligently and that’s sort of what school communities are all about. I think RNS is in a lot better position than when I first came.” When asked about his proudest accomplishment throughout his career, Mr. Kitchen is quick to pass on any credit. “I’ve been a partner or been part of things, but I don’t think

buildings underwent renovations and there were many

anything has been me. My proudest accomplishment,

new constructions such as the Irving Gymnasium, Kirk

maybe is not getting fired,” he laughs, but does add that

and Netherwood Houses, Collegiate Hall, Heritage Hall,

what he is most proud of in the last 29 years are the

10 faculty homes on Netherwood Lane, and the beautiful

students.

Théâtre Susan B. Ganong was added to School House. “I am so proud that they’re happy, they get a great Mr. Kitchen is very proud of the campus of today, but

education, and they love RNS. And I have no worry about

he feels the faculty is the true strength of Rothesay

the school in 40 years. The students who have graduated

Netherwood School.

in the last 10, 15, 20 years, they bleed RNS. Sure they’ve got to go to university, and raise their families, and do

“Great teaching is a very special thing and nothing THE HEAD’S LETTER

all of those things, but someday they’ll come back as the

leaving a legacy board leadership of the school and that tattoo on their

And, as for his own future plans ...

heart will make sure the school is in great stead for a long time.”

“I don’t have any retirement plans right now other than to travel,” he says. “For the last 60 years on Labour Day,

Speaking of the school of the future, Mr. Kitchen points

I’ve gone back to school, so on Labour Day 2016, I think

out that he’d like to see the Endowment Fund continue

it would be best to be far away or I might end up back

to grow and he hopes the school continues to invest in

at RNS!”

great teaching, and to “create the circumstances that teachers can continue to be great teachers.” At the end

And his advice to the graduating Class of 2016 ...

of the day, though, it’s all about the students. “I hope they all have the opportunity to find a place they “I hope that RNS continues to evolve, being right for the

can contribute and find the type of success they want to

students,” he says. “I hope our values don’t change, but I

find,” he says. “I hope they remain connected with the

hope that the programs we offer do in order to suit the

school. And I hope they don’t forget that Paul Kitchen

students of the era that they’re being taught in. I guess

is part of the Class of 2016.”

I’m hoping that we continue to grow and evolve as a caring school for great kids.”

Happy Graduation, PGK.

In 1987, Paul Kitchen applied for and was appointed Headmaster of Rothesay Collegiate School – Netherwood (taking a salary cut!). Paul had a vision, and with many helpers, he completely rebuilt the school in terms of academics and teaching staff, buildings and grounds ($15 million plus), alumni relations, endowment ($15,000 to $7 million plus), finances, and the lifeline of enrolment from 100 students to 275. Meanwhile, Paul served as apprentice in the role of Head of School, ruffling many feathers as he learned and moved his project forward. An assiduous fundraiser, Paul secured substantial gifts for school projects from alumni and friends of the school, across Canada and overseas. Managing a co-ed boarding and day school is a brutally demanding job. The average “tenure” for a “Head” in the Canadian system is 5 years. Paul Kitchen spent 29 years in the trenches! He is a rare bird, a “doer”! With much help, he and his team clawed RNS back from the brink, and made it the extraordinary school it is today. Thank you, Paul. ~ JACK HICKMAN ’42

leaving a legacy

PAUL KITCHEN’S ...

A leader in every sense, Paul had a vision of what RNS could become and he set the school on that path 29 years ago. It must have been overwhelming for an inexperienced young Head to know where to start. However, with his determination, passion, patience, hard work, and humility he set about to improve RNS academics, athletics, arts, student life, physical plant, governance, faculty housing (look around the campus, he has done it) all to provide the best education possible for each student. Paul’s passion for RNS made him available day or night to talk to a parent, or help a student, or flood the ice in the days before the ice plant was installed. His patience is inexhaustible as is his understanding of children, especially adolescents. Many a parent, after speaking to Paul, has been relieved to hear that their son’s or daughter’s latest antics were only a result of teenagers being teenagers. While programs changed, facilities improved and enrolment grew, one thing remained constant and that was his insistence that everybody be treated with dignity. Paul’s approach is one of gentleness and subtlety so that a student, a faculty member, or a parent could see another point of view or change their own without losing face. He wasn’t always successful; that was when his humility came into play and he turned the other cheek so the other person could keep their dignity. Paul is a man of honour and it has been a privilege to work for someone who has done so much for so many students. ~ STEPHANIE BUCHANAN Executive Assistant to Paul Kitchen (since 1997)

Top 29 RNS MOMENTS

1. Watching my first RNS Graduation with Hope Hunter ’36 in June 1987. Fortunately, this relationship remains strong today. Hope and her sister, Hazen Inches ’37, are both school Founders. 2. To ensure I stayed connected to yesteryear as I planned for the school of tomorrow, Mrs. Bonnycastle would visit me after every graduation. This relationship was vital to my connection with our alumni. 3. In the early 1990s, we stumbled onto a solution that ended the crumbling of bricks from Memorial Chapel. As a result, our Chapel was revitalized and has remained an integral part of our daily school life. 4. In 1990, we were successful in getting a new 8” town water line up the Hill. This meant we could eliminate a school water tower for water pressure and have modern buildings with safe sprinkler systems. 5. In 1991 and 1992, we decided to bury all of the school’s electrical and telephone lines. The beauty of our school was no longer marred by hydro and telephone lines. And this ensured that bad weather would not impact communication or power to our facility. In 1993, with the help of Mel Young ‘63, we created a ring road around the school. This allowed us to close interior roads, making the campus safer and more beautiful. 6. For ages, the school had been stuck at a population of just over 100 students. In the Fall of 1994, we enrolled 140. This was a huge breakthrough. To celebrate, Jack Hickman ’42, volunteer Director of Finance at the time, bought ice cream for every student. 7. On May 14, 1994, we planted 200 trees. Elm trees once covered our campus, and with the help of the entire community, and a school master plan created by Bill Hicks ’71,

leaving a legacy the campus is green again, with the trees we see today. 8. Getting Jack Hickman ’42 and Jim Irving ’46 to co-chair the “Building for the Next Century” campaign in 1995. 9. Getting a call on February 24, 1995, from Jim Irving ’46 informing me that he and his brothers, Arthur ’48 and Jack ’50, would build a new gym for the school. 10. Helping to coach the inaugural women’s rugby (1996) and hockey (2000) teams. 11. In 1996, Jim Irving ’46, Jack Hickman ’42 and I visited Peggy (Robinson) (Meighen) Molson '32 in Montreal. After our visit, she made the gift to convert the old gym into the beautiful new Théâtre Susan B. Ganong. 12. We had an arena for 47 years, but in 1997 we were finally able to install artificial ice which allowed us to expand our athletic program and make valuable contributions to our local community. 13. In 1998, the school became officially debt free. 14. In 1998, we began to build faculty homes on Netherwood Lane. This helped to attract important faculty which, in turn, helped support and stabilize our school.

Turnbull ’82 was offered to the school which enabled us to open Kirk House in 2002. 17. In 2005, Collegiate Hall was opened by brothers, Jim Irving ’46, Arthur Irving ’48, and Jack Irving ’50. 18. In 2006, Netherwood House opened. A huge gathering of Netherwood Alumni were present for the opening of this first building built specifically for women on our campus. A major portion of the funding came from The Netherwood Foundation and a past parent. 19. In 2006, we trekked the Inca Trail before heading to the top of Machu Picchu in Peru. This was incredible as I was able to be there with our grad class, and it was an example of the close relationship I have been able to maintain with the many students at RNS. 20. In 2009, we received our first IB results. These were a celebration of a great change in the direction of academics at our school, and set us on a path to become one of our nation’s best. 21. On March 17, 2009, after many years of planning, Heritage Hall, our new dining hall, was opened by Jim Irving ’46 and Jim Schryer ’46, lifelong friends from RCS. This state-of-the-art facility became the center of our community, hosting our most important events and celebrations.

15. In 1999, Robert MacNeil ’49 of the MacNeil/Lehrer Report, visited the school. He told stories of being a student at RCS during WWII and of how he was in the news bus in Dallas that travelled directly behind JFK’S motorcade on November 22, 1963.

22. In 2010, the Mackay Family came together to completely refurbish Mackay House. The building was rebuilt with modern fittings offering our senior boys a current and generous place to live and study.

16. Again on a February 24 (this is a lucky date for RNS), a gift from Mary

23. In 2011, CAIS completed an accreditation of RNS and acknowl-

edged it as one of the leading schools in Canada. This moment recognized the hard work of many teachers and staff at becoming leaders in their fields, enabling RNS to be a source of creation. This was the seed of our Learn2Learn Conference and our developing relationships with UNB’s Department of Education. 24. In 2012, our Board took part in our first Board Retreat allowing everyone to focus on improved and current governance. As a result, we are a school with a board that is committed to being generative. 25. After more than a decade of small improvements, in 2011, we were able to say that we remunerate our faculty better than any school in the province. 26. By 2014, we doubled the endowment that existed in 2009. In those five years, we demonstrated that we had the ability to achieve impressive goals that would help to ensure more students could have the opportunity to attend RNS. 27. Over the many years I have been here, sadly students and young alumni have passed away. As an example, and something I am proud we have been able to embrace, is the completion of the Jordan Boyd Memorial Pond. 28. In 2014, I was diagnosed with Lymphoma. While I have often felt tremendous support in my role, I was overwhelmed with the interest and empathy shown by our community. I am still buoyed from your concern for my well-being. 29. In 2014, we finally hit our longtime enrolment goal of 280 students. This was vital as it demonstrated we could thrive and be sustainable at this number.

Happy Retirement to ...

Elizabeth Kitchen 20 YEARS OF DEDICATION TO ROTHESAY NETHERWOOD SCHOOL

hen Elizabeth Kitchen moved back to New Brunswick and enrolled her two boys (Luke Vallee ’92 and Mark Vallee ’95) in RCS Netherwood, she had no idea that the school would one day become not only her place of work, but her home. Working as a nurse in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit at the Saint John Regional Hospital and teaching nursing students at the Saint John School of Nursing, it was a natural fit when Elizabeth was hired as the school nurse. Mrs. Kitchen brought her skills, dedication, and caring nature to the job. And like so many others, she became a passionate promoter of the special place that is RNS. Her love of the school and her belief in the program, teachers, students and staff led to ‘helping out’ in the Admissions Department. Eventually, she transitioned to Admissions full time and has been a member of this team ever since.

all of the students and their families, it is being the spouse of the Head of School, that has truly made RNS her home. “Being the spouse of the Head of School has been really interesting,” she says, adding “it has been a privilege in this role to get to know so many alumni and several have become my very good friends. “Working with the faculty has been a pleasure. I have enjoyed having alumni and faculty at our house, especially during these last three years in our beautiful new home. It has also been a pleasure to work with the Board; I have such great respect for all that they give to the school.”

“I have loved knowing all of the students at the school in my role in the Admissions Office over the last 20 years,” she says.

Having worked at RNS for more than 20 years, Mrs. Kitchen has helped in the transformation from a school of 120 students to the bustling, at-capacity campus of today where 275 children learn and thrive.

While her role in admissions allows Mrs. Kitchen to meet

“Conducting tours is very different now with the addition

THE HEAD’S LETTER

I have loved knowing all of the students at the school in my role in the Admissions Office over the last 20 years. of all the new buildings and the improvements to the overall campus,” she says. “Faculty housing has changed dramatically and the grounds are beautiful.”

RNS, she hopes “that the school continues to improve and that it always offers the best education for the students of the day.

Wearing her ‘admissions’ hat, Mrs. Kitchen leads with quiet excellence. She takes great pride in her work, is always exacting in everything she does, and exudes warmth to prospective students, giving them a first glimpse of what it’s like to be a member of the RNS family.

“I have enjoyed watching the faculty improve their craft of teaching and I am confident that they continue to be leaders in their profession. I hope that RNS remains a happy school.”

She isn’t one to take centre stage, but rather is always there to offer support, encouragement, and a genuine smile.

In terms of her own future plans, Mrs. Kitchen says that “in retirement we would like to travel a little and have lots of time for our grandchildren. We will both need to find a purpose and find areas that need our help.”

“I feel I have been an effective member of the admission team and also have helped Paul with all that he has done.

When the Kitchens move off campus, Mrs. Kitchen says the RNS community is what she will miss most.

“His job is all consuming and would have been more difficult to do without support,” she says, and adds with a smile that she is “looking forward to his being a little less consumed once he retires and we will be able to share in at least some of the tasks of daily living.”

“Almost the only people we know are members of this community. I will miss the students, my colleagues and the alumni – and being involved.

This June, along with her husband, Mrs. Kitchen will retire from her position at Rothesay Netherwood School. She is confident that the school will continue to be a leading-edge independent school.

“My friends are my colleagues and the alumni and I hope to maintain these friendships.” And in terms of future involvement with RNS, in typical Mrs. Kitchen fashion, she is always ready to lend a hand. “We will certainly be available to help wherever needed.”

“The future in Admissions bodes very well with Patrick (Nobbs) assuming the lead of a strong team,” Mrs. Kitchen says. And when asked what her wish is for the future of

Happy retirement and a heartfelt thank you from your RNS family. u WINTER/SPRING ’16

Introducing the next Head of School ...

Paul McLellan

On July 1, 2016, Paul McLellan will assume the role of Head of School. He is a life-long educator with a track record of commitment to student success and a passion for the values that lie at the centre of RNS. Mr. McLellan has a Master’s degree in Education, Leadership, and Administration from the University of New Brunswick and has been instrumental throughout his 17 years at RNS in developing a number of key initiatives that have enhanced our school and the community.

of the RNS faculty over the years, serving as a Math teacher from 1998 to 2014 and as Head of Math from 1999 to 2005. He previously taught Math at Bishop’s College School in Lennoxville, QC, and at Commission Scolaire du Littoral, Sept Îles, QC.

Mr. McLellan is a respected leader in the independent school community. In July 2015, he was selected by the Canadian Association of Independent Schools (CAIS) to be a contributing member of Project In 2007, Mr. McLellan acted as lead on the implementation of 2051 which brought together 44 academic and business leaders from the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program at RNS, a across Canada to identify and find solutions to sustainability issues transformational change in academic programming at the school. He facing our schools. He has also presented regularly at CAIS and TABS has been responsible for a range of innovative academic initiatives conferences and completed the CAIS Leadership Institute Diploma in including partnerships with UNB’s Department of Education, leading 2005. to the creation of an annual Learn2Learn conference, and with EdTech to bring the first ever Atlantic Canada Global Summit featuring Google Mr. McLellan is currently Assistant Head of School and Director of Apps for Education to RNS. Mr. McLellan has been an active member Senior School, a role he has held since 2005. THE HEAD’S LETTER

t will be my privilege and honour to become the next Head of Rothesay Netherwood School on July 1, 2016. RNS has been home to Kathleen and I for the past 18 years. We have worked here, espoused the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s core values, been embraced by the community, and have created and shared great memories. Our two children, Brett, Grade 11, and Ally, Grade 8, were both born here and certainly call it home. RNS is and always will be a special place for our family. As I prepare to transition into this significant leadership role, I feel humbled and blessed to have a great team of governors, teachers, staff, and parents who are committed to the growth, development, and sustainability of our programs, faculty, and students. My goals for RNS, which are really quite simple, are to provide a smooth leadership transition for our community, to uphold the high standards by which we operate, to continue to invest in our personnel and students, and to work closely with the Board and our staff to successfully implement our new strategic plan.

school pride and spirit, and through our leadership and influence on education in our region. It is clearly understood by everyone in the RNS community that we have a responsibility to strive for individual and collective excellence, make necessary changes and demonstrate regular improvement. This is part of who were are and part of our daily conversations here. We are providing better experiences and opportunities for our students, and it is more important than ever that we are connected, prepared, and strategic when considering future changes for our school. The final, and perhaps most important attribute of RNS, is the quality of our leadership, specifically the leadership of our current Head of School, Paul Kitchen. The school that we love today is very much part of his intentional and ambitious vision. Paul has offered his steady hand, courage, and wisdom to our school for the past 29 years. During this time, the school has been transformed from one that was hours away from closing its doors back in 1984 to one that has become a leading independent boarding and day school in Canada.

It will be my privilege and honour to become the next Head of Rothesay Netherwood School.

When I think about RNS, there are many special attributes or qualities that come to mind, but our community, our commitment to continual improvement, and the quality of our leadership are things that certainly stand out. The tight-knit and supportive community that exists at RNS is true and strong. We hear about it often in stories from alumni, parents, and students. What makes a community so special? It no doubt has to do with our rich history and heritage, stories from our alumni, our many accomplishments, and the real sorrow that we have experienced over the years. Whatever it is, visitors and guests notice it instantly. There is a sense of pride in this place that is genuine and compelling. It can be experienced in Grade 12 chapel speeches, expressed through tears at Closing, evidenced over a refreshment during alumni events, or it can simply be felt during a conversation at lunch in Heritage Hall. The RNS community is impressive and vital to our growth and success. Another aspect of RNS that is striking and engrained in our culture, is a commitment to and evidence of continual improvement. This evidence is clearly seen in the pure beauty of our campus, improvements to our facility,

The RNS of today offers its students and families a world-class education and experience that is safe, challenging, and rewarding. Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard work, passion, and endless list of accomplishments have set a very high standard for me personally and for our community. His leadership has been a great example of the commitment, dogged determination, and character necessary to make transformational changes in education. Fortunately, Paul has been a mentor, advocate, and friend to me. He has provided me with opportunity, expertise, and the support necessary to grow as a leader in this community and transition into my new role as Head of School. His advice and influence have been instrumental to my growth and development and I will continue to keep him apprised of next steps for our school and the many great stories that are yet to be written by our students. I am extremely grateful for my experience at RNS and filled with excitement about what lies ahead for our school. I look forward to meeting as many of you as possible in the very near future.

WINTER/SPRING â&#x20AC;&#x2122;16

Introducing the Director of Enrolment ...

Patrick Nobbs I

In January, Mr. Patrick Nobbs joined Rothesay Netherwood School as the new Director of Enrolment Management overseeing the admission and retention of students. Patrick joins RNS after 14 years at The Rosedale Day School in Toronto where he was the Director of Admissions and Marketing and previous to this, the Assistant Head of School. He brings a wealth of experience in the field of education and, specifically, independent schools, to RNS. Patrick attended high school at two CAIS schools in Toronto before attending Wilfred Laurier University, Ryerson University, and Niagara University in the USA. He, his wife, Lee, and they're two children, Grace (6) and Percy (3), are looking forward to life on the Hill and having the opportunity to meet as many parents, alumni and friends in the years to come.

THE HEAD’S LETTER

am so pleased and excited to have the opportunity to now be a part of the Rothesay Netherwood School community. I have known about RNS for some time and the outstanding reputation it has in the Canadian independent school landscape. I appreciate the school’s commitment to developing character, courage, and creativity along with a passion for excellence and ethical leadership in the education of young men and women.

It is an exciting time here at RNS and I am looking forward to helping make the school the best it can possibly be and to ensure that the school continues to be a proud Atlantic Canadian institution filled with outstanding students. When I arrived on the Hill in January, after driving from Ontario, my first stop was the rink to pick up keys and, of course, one of the RNS teams was in action. Instead of leaving to settle into our new home, I stayed to watch the home team finish off the game. They were down by two starting the third and I was intrigued by the opportunity of instantly becoming involved in this new community. The parents at the game were friendly and welcoming while still being absorbed in the action on the ice. There were staff present and

supporting the team. There were students taking advantage of the opportunity to see a game, hang out, and cheer on their friends. What I saw on that first day I have seen every day since. The students, staff, and parents work together to ensure RNS is a truly amazing community. It is a community built on respect and dignity and is really just one big family – a family that my family is now proud to be a part of. It is this foundation of respect and dignity in the RNS community that allows for a rich and challenging academic environment. Academics are the cornerstone of RNS, but it is apparent that character development and involvement in sports and the arts are key to the experience as well. When you think about it, there is so much happening here every day that it is hard to keep up with it all! These factors join together to make RNS one of the top schools in the country and one I am proud to be part of. You have all made an excellent decision to be a member of this community and know that each day your children increase their knowledge and skills. Oh, and the Riverhawks came back to win 4-3. Go RNS Go!

SNAPSHOT - Grade 6 student Camryn Baker took part in the snowshoe races during the RNS Winter Carnival.

WINTER/SPRING â&#x20AC;&#x2122;16

LIFE ON THE HILL

KYLEIGH GUNN & CECIL VANB USKIRK , HEAD PREFEC TS

s the Class of 2016, we are surrounded everyday by six other grades that teach us what it means to be a member of the RNS community. This is humbling to us Grade 12s. It is said that a school year is only as good as its Grad Class. But our theory is that a Graduating Class is only as good as the rest of the grades behind it. When we take a moment to look around our school, we see that each of the grades below us have taught us something inspirational. The Class of 2022 has taught us the importance of being small and mighty. From the actions of this grade, the Grade 12s can learn the importance of being confident and unafraid. The Grade 6s proudly showed the school their science projects, bravely do announcements in front of the school at lunchtime, and are confident when talking to those older than them. THE HEAD’S LETTER

The Class of 2021 has shown us their adaptability. When tough or surprising opportunities are thrown toward the Grade 7s, they do not panic. The Grade 7s are seen consistently accepting their situations with positivity. This optimistic view is a trait that every other grade at the school can learn from. The Class of 2020 leads with their heart. The Grade 8s are seen in the RNS community as a group of students who show their dedication to volunteering and athletic commitments. They lead with their hearts by putting others before themselves, whether it’s on the basketball court, on the stage, or in various volunteer opportunities. Although the Grade 12s have heart, it’s nothing in comparison to the Class of 2020. The Class of 2019 has exemplified the act of trailblazing. Grade 9 students have the opportunity

to be the youngest players on many of the RNS varsity teams. Many of this year’s Grade 9s have taken advantage of this, becoming important members of the RNS athletic community. In addition to athletics, the Grade 9s have taken on difficult roles in theatrical productions, DJ’d school dances, and displayed their musical talents. These daily acts of courage continuously inspire growth at RNS. The Class of 2018 is the definition of resilient. The Grade 10s are the toughest grade in the school. This grade demonstrates how supporting one another is always key in a growing community. The Grade 12s find inspiration in the way that each student in Grade 10, no matter the circumstance, stays strong. This kind of resilience is outstanding. The Class of 2017 proved to us the power of collaboration. Each year the Grade 11 class is in charge of the school’s winter carnival. This includes planning dress-up days, lunch activities, and events to help keep the winter blues away. This year’s class decided to work together and think outside the box by planning a carnival day featuring bouncy castles and cotton candy. This addition to the annual winter carnival brought a needed element of surprise and joy to the school.

Looking at everything the younger grades have taught our class, it is interesting to think what we may have taught them ... The Class of 2016 is known for being filled with students who stand up for what they believe in and aren’t afraid to work hard for changes that we believe are needed. Our grade is often perceived as stubborn, and at times we are, but this doesn’t mean that we don’t observe and learn from those around us. The Class of 2016 hopes to leave behind a legacy of valuing the importance of learning from the leadership of others. We hope that the graduating classes that come after us are able to draw inspiration from younger grades as we did throughout the 20152016 school year. u WINTER/SPRING ’16

HILL HIGHLIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS FROM STUDENT EXPERIENCES AND ADVENTURES

International Round Square Conference 2015, Singapore BY: KATHERINE BYCZKO ’17 This year, I had the opportunity to attend the International Round Square Conference at the United World College Southeast Asia, in Singapore. This was a fantastic, unforgettable adventure. Learning and exploring the different culture was educational. The theme of this conference was Act Today, Change Tomorrow, in which the ultimate goal was to spread awareness of serious environmental issues and encourage students to take action to better the earth’s current health situation by making small changes. 24

In late September, Brooke Streeter ’18, Corrine Luo ’17, Sara Luck ’17, Shayna Earle ’18, Mme. Jacqueline Albinati, and I packed our bags and set out for the 35-hour journey to the other side of the world. After arriving Singapore, we set out to discover the city. We took the metro into the heart of the city where we quickly discovered how multicultural the city-state is with four official languages – English, Malay, Tamil, and Mandarin. We explored the different cultures, people, and took in the atmosphere in Singapore at outdoor food courts with vendors from various ethnic groups, small markets, as well as high-fashion strip malls. We discovered many different customs, traditions, and cultural aspects. The International Round Square Conference consisted of about 300 attendees from Round Square schools and was divided between the two campuses of UWCSEA, the school hosting this year’s conference. Here, we met students from South Africa, India, Australia, Germany, Jordan, China, and other destinations. The girls THE HEAD’S LETTER

from RNS were split up to stay with different house parents. A day of the conference was dedicated entirely to be spent with one’s house parent. My group explored Marina by the Bay, a beautiful tourist destination with spectacular light shows at night. During the conference, we were again split into small groups of different students called Baraza Groups. We all grew closer to the people in our groups as we discussed environmental issues, the United Nations’ Millennium Goals, accomplished a service day, toured Singapore, and proceeded onto the Singapore Flyer, a large Ferris wheel from which we were able to observe all of Singapore. We ate all meals on campus, having the opportunity to sample some Singaporean multicultural cuisine. We met hundreds of people, listened to speakers, and learned from their experiences and discoveries on topics such as animal cruelty, social issues, as well as environmental concerns. Before the Round Square Conference began, we had a pre-conference tour in Malaysia. Our journey from Singapore into Malaysia took us on a rickety road through the jungle. After crossing the border, we took a boat to Tioman Island, an island we called home for the rest of the week and a place I will always hold in my heart.

The beautiful island had white sand, green tropical vegetation, crystal clear blue water, and a coral reef. We shared this island with a few other schools, including schools from Germany, Australia, and Canada. We had a blast kayaking, swimming, hiking, and scuba diving to see the gorgeous Malaysian coral reef. We visited the Juara Turtle Project where we discovered the sea turtle conservation efforts and the risk of the species going extinct. Our time on the island was also spent debating on local issues such as the pros and cons of building a resort on the island and how that would affect the environment as well as the locals. We had raft-building contests and then had to test them in the water, and we got to know some of the locals. The island community practices Islam and we went to visit a local residence and learned about their ways of life and food. The conference was an eye-opening, educational, and unforgettable adventure. We learned the extent of environmental damage our earth is facing, as well as animal cruelty issues, endangered species problems, and other social concerns. Our perspective has been broadened by meeting people from other countries, as well as from exploring multicultural Singapore. u

Australian Exchange Student shares his experience at RNS

what I was learning in Australia. Mythology, for instance, was a subject that I had never heard of.

BY: LACHY PIECK (WESTMINSTER SCHOOL | ADELAIDE) In October 2015, I was lucky enough to leave Westminster School (in Adelaide, South Australia) to be involved in a six-week exchange at Rothesay Netherwood School. It was a fantastic opportunity allowing me to make many new friends, experience boarding school life, and see some amazing sights in a different country. The first thing that struck me is just how far away this school is from Westminster – a distance of about 17,000 kilometres. The travel involved four flights, several long waits in various airports, and three different airlines. I recovered from my jetlag quickly and started school. The week I arrived I was given my timetable and told that I would go on a school trip to Toronto over the Thanksgiving long weekend, which was something I really looked forward to. My subjects at RNS were a little different from

There are many differences between the two schools. Attending school in cold weather was something that I was not used to, but I soon got into the habit of moving around quickly in the cold, wind, rain, and sleet. Walking to breakfast in the dark was also quite a new experience for me. I have also never played tennis in such wintry weather and it made the game more challenging. At RNS playing sports most afternoons is compulsory and I enjoyed being able to learn to play ice hockey. I don’t know of any schools in South Australia which have ice rinks! In fact, I think there only two or three places where ice hockey can be played in Adelaide (a city of more than a million people). The trip to Toronto was a highlight of my exchange. We visited a number of different malls, saw attractions including the CN Tower, and watched a baseball playoff match where the Toronto Blue Jays were narrowly defeated

by the Texas Rangers. We also went to Niagara Falls, which was spectacular and my favourite part of the trip. I was lucky enough to have my 16th Birthday on the last day of the trip. This day was spent at Canada’s Wonderland where my fellow student travellers sang Happy Birthday to me in English and Mexican. Other highlights of my exchange were celebrating Halloween and learning pumpkin carving. Thank you to Round Square, Westminster School, and Rothesay Netherwood School for presenting me with this amazing opportunity.u

My exchange at Gordonstoun School in Scotland BY: ZACHARY YUZDA ’19

Scotland has been amazing so far. I’ve met so many people from different countries and have seen many interesting things. It’s hard to believe I’ve been here for three weeks already as it feels like less, but as they say, time flies when you’re having fun. Gordonstoun is both similar and different to RNS; one difference being school on Saturdays. As bad as this may sound, it is relatively easy to adjust to and I’m actually finding myself enjoying it. Gordonstoun is also much bigger than RNS with around 600 students. However, the school itself was founded in the 1930s so RNS is older. The campus is quite large with one boarding house being a 20-minute walk from the school’s centre. Every Saturday night, the school has a social for each grade. So far, there’s been a dance, a quiz dinner, and the cinema. As well as these socials, the exchange students have been going out on trips. The most recent one to Loch Ness was fantastic. We went on a boat tour of the lake and then to Castle Urquhart. We were allowed to run around and explore the castle grounds. On the way back, we visited Inverness and then went to the military base, Fort George, where we were given a tour by Gordonstoun alumni. So far, the exchange has been a great experience which I would highly recommend. If anyone is thinking about doing it, but is nervous about stepping out of their comfort zone, they shouldn’t be because it is worth it. I only have four more weeks left on exchange so I’m going to make the most of it! u WINTER/SPRING ’16

My Outward Bound Adventures BY: MORGAN WIRTANEN ’16

In my opinion, Outward Bound is definitely one of the best programs RNS has to offer. The grade trips are a great way to get to know the people in your class. Even people who don’t consider themselves “outdoorsy” always enjoy themselves on those trips. I always knew I liked camping, but I didn’t realize how much I did until the Grade 9 hiking trip on the Fundy Footpath. Despite my tent flooding on the second night, I have only good memories of that trip. Outward Bound teaches you how to deal with situations like that, while learning a lot of new skills, from starting campfires to staying warm in a sleeping bag in December.

The variety of trips is one of the things that continues to amaze me. There really is something for everyone. I’ve been on many different trips, and it’s allowed me to have so many incredible experiences. Being out in the wilderness with a group of your peers is an awesome way to meet new

The Importance of Being Earnest 26

how friendly and accepting everyone is. Of course, a production is never all sunshine. As the saying goes, “the show must go wrong.” But it also must go on. From illnesses to injuries to blanking on lines three days before opening night, a lot of things could and did go wrong during production. But those things were some of the most memorable as well. Speaking of injuries, for example, my inability to walk in my costume shoes without twisting an ankle was what inspired Aunt Augusta’s wheelchair.

BY: VICTORIA CASTONGUAY ’17

For the past three years now, I’ve been a part of the Senior School Play, and it’s one of the most fun and rewarding things I’ve done in my time at RNS. This year’s play, The Importance of Being Earnest, was no different. Not only did it teach us “the vital importance of being earnest,” it taught us teamwork, organization, dedication, and it was just a lot of fun. My role this year, playing Augusta Bracknell, more commonly known as Aunt Augusta, was the largest role I’d taken on in a play so far, but I never once regretted the extra time and dedication it took. It taught me how to better organize myself and manage my time, and I made a lot of friends I might not have otherwise had the opportunity to make. Another challenge was just how different Aunt Augusta’s personality is from my own. In fact, we have almost nothing in common. Her obsession with manners and propriety, as well as her strongly held opinions (and willingness to voice them, loudly) was a challenge to portray well, but also THE HEAD’S LETTER

friends and bond with old ones. I’ll never forget the canoe trip over the May long weekend of Grade 11. There were only seven of us and we had an amazing time getting to know each other better and sharing lots of new experiences. That’s something that happens on every Outward Bound trip and I can’t wait until the next trip! u

one of the most fun things I have done in a while. Some of the highlights of putting on the show included the antics surrounding Aunt Augusta’s wheelchair (the amount of squished toes was directly proportional to everyone’s steering skills – or lack thereof), playing warm-up games before rehearsals, all the lame jokes and pun wars, and, of course, the friendships and fun we all had together. That has always been my favourite thing about being a part of the Senior School Play, and really about RNS in general –

There were other mistakes and accidents that occurred as well, but the fact that we overcame them and created a show that I think turned out wonderfully, is a testament to the dedication and determination of our director, Ms. Bell and the cast and crew. It was an incredible experience that I will remember for years to come. Overall, I just want to say thank you to everyone – Ms. Bell, the cast, the crew, and the audience. Thank you for joining us on the journey toward bringing Oscar Wilde’s classic play to life. I hope you all enjoyed the ride, and, of course, learned the Importance of Being Earnest. u

CAN WE COUNT ON YOUR SUPPORT THIS YEAR?

Last year 730 donors made a donation to RNS. Support from alumni, parents, grandparents, faculty and staff, board members, governors, and friends of the school is crucial to the mission of Rothesay Netherwood School. While tuition is directed to basic operational expenses (teacher salaries, utilities, meals, etc.), our school relies on the generosity of our donors to provide enhanced programs and opportunities for our students. Our hope is that each family that has been helped by Rothesay Netherwood School will in turn assist us to touch the lives of current and future students.

WAYS TO GIVE Cash, cheque or credit card; stocks or securities; matching gifts from employers; or Aeroplan Miles HOW TO GIVE Donate Securely Online: Visit www.rns.cc, click on Giving, then choose Donate Online. DONATE BY PHONE: Call Nic Carhart in the Development & Alumni Affairs Office at 506.848.0861.

DONATE BY MAIL: Mail your cheque (payable to Rothesay Netherwood School) in the reply envelope included in your Headâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Letter. All donors will receive a receipt for income tax purposes in Canada or the USA. To be included in the 2015-2016 Donor Listing, donations must be received before June 30, 2016. WINTER/SPRING â&#x20AC;&#x2122;16

Thank you for your generosity and support! | Visit us at www.rns.cc

When living away from home, students broaden their horizons. They learn to become independent, responsible, thoughtful, and considerate members of a large, extended family. Have a look at what life on campus is like with American boarder, Daniel Abay ’16, and Mexican boarder, Maria Inés Miravete Martinez ’16. THE HEAD’S LETTER

This is

Daniel. He is in Grade 12 & lives in Kirk House.

Q: How long have you been a boarder at RNS? Where are you from? A: I started boarding at RNS halfway through my Grade 9 year in Kirk House and I have not left Kirk since. I call both Norwich, CT, and Grand Manan, NB, my home, although I was born in Manhattan, NY. Q: Who is your roommate? Where is he from? Have you become close since living with him? A: My roommate this year is Spierings Verhoeven â&#x20AC;&#x2122;18 and he is from Sussex, NB. There is a small age gap between us since he is a couple of years younger than me, but because of his mature and responsible demeanor, we get along very well. I have been very happy with every roommate I have had at RNS. Q: What is your favourite part of being a boarder and living in residence on the Hill? A: My favourite part of living in residence is continuously being surrounded with great friends and peers. There are always friends around to have fun with and when study time comes around it is great to know that help with an assignment is just a knock away. Q: What is it like for a boarder to study and do homework? A: As a boarder, we have scheduled study periods each night, which I find very helpful. The residences are quiet during the study periods which helps me get my work done, and if we need to work on a group project or study with my peers, we can head over to the library. Every night there is also a teacher on duty in each residence which can be very helpful with assignments. Q: Houseparents are there for the good times and the bad times. What does it mean to you to have someone like this in your life while living away from home? A: Having Houseparents has been great for me since I have been a boarder. My Houseparents have made me feel welcome since my first day here, even when I began halfway through the year. It is great to have such supportive people

to go to with any problems when you are away from home. Q: How often do you chat with your family? How do you usually do this (i.e. text, email, talk on phone, Skype, etc)? A: I am in contact with family very often. I text them regularly and I do my best to call them at least once a week. Q: What sort of activities do you do together as a House that bring you closer together? A: Living in Kirk House we have many house outings through the year, which help us become close and more comfortable with each other. We have played paintball, pool, gone to basketball games, and many other outings. Hanging out in the common rooms is also a great way to make great relationships in the house. Q: What makes RNS so special to you? A: I love RNS because of the great, welcoming, and diverse community I am surrounded with every day. I will cherish the amazing relationships I have made here for the rest of my life. Q: What is your best experience so far living on the Hill? A: I have made so many great memories since I have lived on the Hill that it is very hard to pick one. I have loved playing on the sports teams and just hanging around campus with my friends, but my favourite experiences have probably been the great trips that RNS offers. On long weekends, we are able to sign up for incredible trips from going to see the Phillies, Flyers, and 76ers play in Philadelphia, to skiing at Mont Sainte-Ann and Le Massif in Quebec. I have made some of my best memories on these trips. u

I love RNS because of the

great, welcoming, and diverse community I am surrounded with every day. I will cherish the amazing relationships I have made here for the rest of my life.

WINTER/SPRING â&#x20AC;&#x2122;16

This is

Maria Inés. She is in Grade 12 & lives in Quinn House.

Q: How long have you been a boarder at RNS? Where are you from? A: This is my second year at RNS and I am from Mexico. Q: Who is your roommate? Where is she from? Have you become close since living with her? A: This year I live with Nakisa. She is from Dominica and

last year we became friends, so it’s nice that we have the opportunity to be roommates. Last year, I had a Canadian roommate. She was a hockey player and thanks to that, I now know everything about hockey. We were totally different but at the end of the year we were really close. I am an only child, so it was something new for me to share space with someone. I feel that now I have sisters.

Q: What is your favourite part of being a boarder and living in residence on the Hill? A: I like that you are able to know and live with so many other cultures. In Quinn, there are 51 girls from all around the world and this gives you the opportunity to talk to them and learn about them. Quinn girls become your friends and your family. One other thing I love is living on the Hill, and being able to walk around the campus and enjoy the beautiful views that we have here. Q: What is it like for a boarder to study and do homework? A: It’s really interactive. Each day we have time for study from 8 to 10 pm and there is a duty teacher that is always there to help you in case you have questions about your homework. You can also work with someone in the house and ask for help. This is one thing I love about Quinn. We help each other when we don’t understand something and you can ask for help. It can be difficult for someone who gets distracted really easy. I like that we have access to so many different things like the library, the duty teacher, or even your roommate. Q: Houseparents are there for the good times and the bad times. What does it mean to you to have someone like this in your life while living away from home? THE HEAD’S LETTER

A: For me it has been really important because they are always there when you need them, no matter what. Every time I am home sick, I just talk with them and they make me feel as if I were at home with my Mom. I have had the opportunity to have two different Houseparents. Last year I had Mrs. McCarville and this year I have Ms. Young, and both of them have been really kind and have made me feel like I was home. Q: How often do you chat with your family? How do you usually do this (i.e. text, email, talk on phone, Skype, etc)? A: I try to talk with my Mom every day after dinner just to tell her about my day, but some days I have so many activities or homework that I just text her. We use everything from Face Time to emails and text. We actually try to send each other a letter but it takes a really long time to arrive in Mexico. It’s difficult that she is not here with me, but each day when we talk, I feel that she is here. Q: What sort of activities do you do together as a House that bring you closer together?

A: One weekend we went out for dinner as a house and then we went to the movies. These are moments when the house has the opportunity to be together. Also, one activity in which we work as a house is when we have Heads Rounds. The weeks before that we work together to make sure that our house is clean and nice. There are 51 girls and each day I am so happy I have the opportunity to be here and know each of them.

Q: What makes RNS so special to you? A: RNS is special for me because it has been my home for two years. I have so many things that make RNS the place that I have always wished for. I have friends from all around the world and lots of memories from the Hill. The experience of being a border is amazing. I am part of a big community and I am so happy that I can call this community family. So what makes RNS so special for me? Everything! Every day and memory that I have here is really special for me. RNS is just an amazing place and I love to be part of it. Q: What is your best experience so far living on the Hill? A: One of my best experiences was last year when I had the opportunity to travel to Europe and visit cities such as Paris and Amsterdam. I was able to visit museums and monuments that are related to WWII. I visited places such as Anne Frank House and the Canadian National Vimy Memorial. Sharing this experience with Canadians from across the country, made this trip something I will never forget. When you live on the Hill, each day you have different experiences that you will never forget. u

Maria Inés (left) with her roommate, Nakisa Severin ’16, loves living in Quinn House. "I am an only child, so it was something new for me to share space with someone. WINTER/SPRING ’16 I feel that now I have sisters."

Front

Centre& Performing in an RNS Musical takes character, courage, and lots of creativity. Find out why the leads of this year's high school production, Curtains, took the opportunity to be Front & Centre.

THE HEADâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LETTER

Curious about what it takes to star in an RNS production, we asked the leads of Curtains ...

WHAT PROMPTED YOU TO TRY OUT FOR A LEAD ROLE? Here’s what they had to say ... I wanted to push myself outside my comfort zone, and the stage is thoroughly outside of it.

~ Molly Browning ’16 as Roberta Wooster

I had always been a dancer, so becoming the choreographer was a perfect fit for me after I had to give up dance. As the choreographer I had to teach a lot of people that have had a lot of different dance backgrounds. ~ Ana Bullock ’16 student choreographer

My passion is music, and I absolutely love musicals. I thought it would be a fun time to put on a show with all my friends and have a good time.

~ Peter Fillman ’16 as Aaron Fox

I’ve known I can sing for a long time. I would try out for the musical, but I would always be down on my luck and I would get a role in the chorus. Last spring, I said, “Enough is enough. I can’t wait for my ship to come in, I have to sail out to it.” So I performed “Pulled” from the Addams Family Musical in the Broadway Review and surprised quite a few people. When Fall rolled around, I was hesitant to audition because I have been a member of the Varsity Field Hockey Team since Grade 9, but I also had my heart set on being on the stage. I decided to try out and see what role I would be offered. When I was offered a lead, I knew it was too good to be turned down. ~ Kathleen Chisholm ’16 as Carmen Bernstein

A lot of my friends were trying out. As well, I had been a lead the two years prior, so it was natural that I would do a final high school performance. I’m glad I did. We were all part of a select group and we ended up sitting together quite often and spent more time with each other. Even now, I still talk to people who, prior to the musical, I wouldn’t have spoken to or have been able to get to know.

~ Ryan Froude ’16 as Harv Fremont

WINTER/SPRING ’16

I decided to try out for a lead role because many of my friends were doing the same, and I would get to spend lots of time with them in the process. Seeing the reactions of the audience was my favourite part. After practicing the same thing for so long, it’s easy to forget how cool or funny it is. Once people see the show for the first time, and react accordingly, all the hard work you’ve put in finally pays off.

~ Zachary Lutchmedial ’16 as Christopher Belling

It’s my last year here and my friends were trying out. I thought, “Why not?” Plus I got to know people I would normally never have spoken to before. From day one, I was introduced to a group of students who accepted me for me and had each other’s backs. We were a team.

~ Bailey O’Regan ’16 as Randy Dexter

I’ve loved performing ever since I was little, especially singing. That, along with all the other amazing people involved, makes the musical something I always look forward to.

~ Brooke Streeter ’18 as Niki Harris

THE HEAD’S LETTER

Well, for the most part, I love to act! This was only my second musical with RNS, and I had no idea what to expect. Singing isn’t really my thing, so it was definitely something I wanted to learn more about. I absolutely love Broadway musicals, and performance has always been a passion of mine. So why not, right? It sounded like fun! In the end, it was just a big blur of singing and silly dancing and laughs and hairspray. Thank you, Mrs. Ellis. Thank you, crazy musical family!

~ Martha Pitre ’18 as Georgia Hendricks

One of my dreams was to be a main character in a musical, the problem was that I had soccer practice, so I could only be secondary character ... or so I thought, until they asked me if I wanted to be a lead in the musical. I took the chance immediately.

~ Maximiliano Romero ’19 as Daryl Grady

I love acting and singing … and sometimes even dancing (sometimes). I think being involved in a musical is a really great team experience and I always enjoyed spending time with my fellow cast members, having fun and working on the production.

~ Cameron Slipp ’16 as Lieutenant Frank Cioffi

I have always had a passion for musical theater so when I heard about the auditions I really wanted to try to get a lead role. I’ve had a lot of experience in drama, but being in Grade 9 I doubted that I would get the part. I was really happy and surprised to find out that I got a lead.

~ Sarah Slipp ’19 as Mona Page

I have always loved the musical, but at first I auditioned for a dancing role. For the first two months of rehearsals, I was only in two dancing scenes. However, a situation came up and Mrs. Ellis had to find a new lead. I was honoured because I was the first person she thought of and came to. I agreed to replace one of the leads and that was one of the best decisions I have made in my career at RNS and my best experience in this production would be my new found passion for dancing.

~ Clement Su ’16 as Bobby Pepper

I have always loved to act and perform so when the opportunity presented itself I said, “Yes, please!”

~ Cecil VanBuskirk ’16 as Sidney Bernstein

WINTER/SPRING ’16

AMAZI

THE HEAD ’S LETTER

Alumnus Matt Forbes ’05 now calls LA home and has recently released his debut full-length album Coulda Woulda Shoulda. Follow Forbes on Facebook: www. facebook.com/MattForbesLive. His albums are available on amazon.com and iTunes.

ING ALUMNI ...

MATT FORBES ’05 T

his past year, Matt Forbes ’05 found himself singing into the very same microphone that Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Bobby Darin, and Paul McCartney had all once used. Last February, Matt stepped inside Hollywood’s iconic Capitol Studios to record his debut full-length album, Coulda Woulda Shoulda. Joined by a legendary line-up of session musicians – many of whom actually played with these greats – this was Forbes’ second time recording at Capitol, having recorded his first EP, The Twelve Minutes of Christmas there in late 2014. But before he called Los Angeles home, Forbes had long felt most at home on stage at the Théâtre Susan B. Ganong. In fact, it was on the RNS stage that the 27-year-old pop crooner realized early on that he was destined for a career in the performing arts. Having appeared in every play and musical since his arrival in Grade 8, Forbes says his role as ‘The Chairman’ in the musical The Mystery of Edwin Drood during his senior year was a particular turning point for him. “That role, above all the others, really epitomized everything I love about live performance and made me realize that this was what I had to do,” he says, adding that his early experiences of putting on a show at RNS set up a strong artistic foundation and work ethic. “That stage was such a safe, nurturing space for me to figure out who I was as a young performer. The creative freedom I was given was really empowering and served me especially well when I went off to study at NYU.” During his five years at RNS, Forbes took part in every artistic opportunity available to him – from theatre to band and jazz choirs. This variety of experiences, along with the encouragement of the Head of School and the faculty, gave Forbes the confidence to ‘create’ without limitations. Forbes says Head of School, Paul Kitchen, who was also his first advisor at RNS, was one of his earliest champions. “In an environment that was sometimes dominated by

sports, ‘PGK’ really gave me free reign and let me run with any crazy idea I had. He really saw the value in the performing arts and what it was doing for me and so many other students who didn’t quite fit into that athletic mold.” In Grade 11, Forbes went to Mr. Kitchen with a proposal to direct and produce an original Broadway revue that would serve as a fundraiser for the Grade 12 class trip to New York. Mr. Kitchen signed off on Broadway 4 Broadway and a new annual tradition was born. Forbes also credits “The Daynas” (Dayna Van Doleweerd and Dayna Ellis), Richard Kidd, and the RNS faculty as a whole for nurturing an environment where theatrical productions could be “as hip as RugbyFest.” The skills Forbes picked up at RNS were put to good use during his four years attending NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, where he was a drama major at The Stella Adler Studio of Acting; he later studied at The Second City in Chicago. Now living in Los Angeles, Forbes’ career is indeed building momentum. With the release of his debut album of ‘vintage pop’, Coulda Woulda Shoulda, Forbes has been savouring the greater exposure it’s providing him. “My first national TV interview was definitely one of those ‘pinch-me’ moments. Sitting on that red couch across from Ben Mulroney (host of Canada’s #1 entertainment news show, eTalk) was pretty surreal. Especially when Ben held up his phone after the segment and told me he was texting his buddy, ‘Mike’ (namely, Michael Bublé) about me … that was pretty wild!” In addition to being profiled on The Marilyn Denis Show, E! News and The Huffington Post, Forbes’ album was a ‘Critic’s Pick’ in HELLO! Canada. He has opened for Emmy Award winner Seth MacFarlane (Family Guy) and just recently headlined at Toronto’s world-class Koerner Hall for the Royal Conservatory of Music’s Sinatra @ 100 celebration. “To stand on the stage and play to a sold-out house of 1100 people with a band of that calibre was truly special,” he says. WINTER/SPRING ’16

Looking ahead, Forbes is eager to begin touring throughout the US, Canada, and Europe in support of the new album. And while he doesn’t consider himself famous yet, Forbes acknowledges that there’s definitely an awareness building. “Forward movement is all you can hope for in this business,” he says, “so the amazing reception we’ve experienced so far with this album has been really exciting.” Matt is quick to point out that he isn’t the only Forbes RNS alumni enjoying success. Both of his younger brothers, Ben ’07 and Scott ’07 Forbes, have been keeping equally busy since they graduated from Sheridan College. Ben is currently developing his own animated pilot called Jo Minkus with Nickelodeon Animation. The original animated short, from which Jo Minkus was green-lit, was released this January and can be viewed on Nick. com under ‘Short Toons’ and Vimeo.com. Ben also recently completed his role as a character designer for Nickelodeon’s hit animated series, Fairly Odd Parents. For the past four seasons, Scott has been working as the art director for Mattel’s hugely successful animated series, Ever After High (seen on Netflix). Scott continues to be 38

THE HEAD ’S LETTER

in high demand as a comic book cover artist, providing acclaimed covers for DC Comics, Marvel, and Image Comics. While the proud Forbes parents now live in Winnipeg, MB, Matt says he still has extended family in the Maritimes, and admits that he’s due for a visit. While Forbes hopes to return with a show at the Imperial Theatre, he says, “it would be fun to hop back on stage at the Théâtre Susan B. Ganong again!” Here’s hoping! u

Matt Forbes as The Chairman in a scene from the 2005 RNS Musical The Mystery of Edwin Drood.

AMAZING ALUMNI: BETTY (GOODDAY) MITHAM ’46 Q: Tell me about your passions? A: I am enthusiastic about all aspects of nature, bird watching, the outdoors, physical activity, and participating in the annual Hampton 5 Miler. Q: Describe a typical day in your life. A: Arise and prepare for the day, which is often an exercise class with a group at the local gym or at the Hampton Seniors’ Resource Centre. Every Thursday I work at the weekly Seniors’ Dinner that is held at noon. Afternoons may entail errands, appointments, meetings, time with family or friends, or simply doing home chores and enjoying my coffee while watching the news from Vancouver, where my youngest son lives. Evenings are enjoyed with two nights of square dancing, meetings, doing jigsaw puzzles, or reading. I am not one to spend much time watching TV. Q: I understand that you are an advocate for seniors. What accomplishments are you most proud of in this regard? A: Being named a Wellness Champion for Hampton sponsored by Wellness NB. Also, I was active in supporting the launch of a weekly exercise program at the Seniors’ Resource Centre (where I am also a Director). I participate in other events that bring seniors together, especially many activities throughout the year that our local Wellness Committee supports (again a member of that) and I try to set an example by staying physically active myself. Q: You worked as a Registered Nurse. What were the highlights of your career? A: I worked as an operating room nurse, but the most rewarding and enduring experience was working with patients, and endeavouring to see situations from their perspective. I found it very important to be sensitive to their feelings and to be understanding. Q: What impact did your years at Netherwood School for Girls have on your career? Personal life? A: I always wanted to be a nurse from an early age and that never changed as a career choice. I feel that my years at Netherwood, plus my parents, gave me an excellent preparation to go out in the world with a good code of ethics for my life.

Alumni Betty Mitham ’46, left, with classmate, Anne (Harrington) Disher ’46, at an Alumni event.

Q: What are your favourite Netherwood memories? A: The friendships that were built with the other students. As day students when I attended Netherwood School we were not as involved with school activities as they are today. Q: Is there any one teacher at Netherwood School for Girls who helped to shape who you have become? A: Miss Stoddard, a very special teacher. She was a strict disciplinarian but extremely kind and encouraging when you had any difficulties. She taught us to respect others in life and also that you could always accomplish your goals and not fail if you wished to be successful. Q: In June, another group of RNS students will graduate. What advice can you give them? A: ‘Follow your dreams’ is a cliché, but it’s helpful. You might not know what you want to do right away, but it’s funny what starts happening when you start doing something you like. I stopped nursing professionally after I married, but I never stopped finding ways to help people and that’s made for a very rewarding life. Q: What is your mantra? Words to live by? A: “I can do it.” Always be willing to try.

AMAZING ALUMNI: DEBBIE HACKETT ’84 Q: Tell me about your profession? A: I am a Justice of the Court of Queen’s Bench of New Brunswick, assigned to the Family Division in the Judicial District of Saint John. I hear applications for divorce and applications under our provincial Family Services Act. I deal with child protections matters, and I make decisions in private matters related to custody of and access to children, child support and spousal support, division of marital property and property acquired during common-law relationships. I also deal with applications to have individuals declared

mentally incompetent and to have committees appointed for them, and I grant adoptions. Q: What do you love most about what you do? A: I love the challenge and the variety of work that I do. I also appreciate having the opportunity to help families who need the Court’s assistance. Q: What are the greatest challenges of your job? A: The subject matter of divorce and separation

and its impact on children is very challenging. So are the applications brought by the Minister of Social Development to have children removed from the care of their parents. Q: What are the highlights of your career to date? A: My appointment to the Bench in December 2014, was a highlight. It came after I served for over four years as Case Management Master in our court’s Family Division. That too was a highlight. Prior to that, I worked as director of Policy WINTER/SPRING ’16

and Planning for the province’s Department of Justice and was very involved in the planning around implementing a case management model in Saint John. It was wonderful to see the model come to fruition and work well for families. Q: What impact did your years at RCS Netherwood have on your career? Your life? A: I was lucky enough to spend many years at the school. My father (the late Win Hackett) was the first housemaster of Quinn House the year I was born, 1967. We lived on the Hill until I was seven, then moved back again when my father was Headmaster in the late 1970s. My sister, Margaret Totten ’84, and I went to the school from Grades 7 through to 12. I learned a lot about service to the school community and hard work. The small classes meant that we received a lot of individual attention. My experience was very positive. Q: What are your favourite RCS Netherwood memories? A: I have great memories of growing up on the Hill, and playing in the woods with Margaret, and lots of other children of staff members. I also have good memories of craziness on road trips for field hockey and softball. I especially treasure the memories of school traditions, like the Carol Service in the chapel at Christmas time.

Q: Is there any one teacher at RCS Netherwood who helped to shape who you have become? Tell me about her/him. A: My Grade 12 English teacher, Ed Dickens, really helped me learn how to think critically about literature. I ended up majoring in English at university, and that gave me a good basis for studying law. Mr. Dickens taught us in a “college” like way. He built us these wooden box chairs, and we sat in a circle and discussed Shakespeare or whatever we were reading at the time.

Alumna Debbie Hackett ’84 is a Justice of the Court of Queens’ Bench, of New Brunswick.

Q: In June, another group of RNS students will graduate. What advice can you give them? A: I would say, “don’t give up,” even when things get difficult. Keep moving forward and working for a goal and you’ll get there. Q: What is your mantra? Words to live by? A: I don’t really have a mantra, although some days I tell myself, “You’re ok, you’re ok” when I feel overwhelmed! It seems to work. Q: Anything else you would like to tell me? A: RNS has gone through many incarnations. It has survived tough times and now it’s enjoying stability and success. I think all of us who have been lucky enough to be part of the school are very thankful for that.

AMAZING ALUMNI: MATTHEW TRIVETT ’07 Q: You’ve turned a passion for video games into a successful career. Tell me how this came to be? A: Truthfully, my career is a combination of coincidence, good fortune, and timing. I became really involved in gaming in 2007, and being a competitive person, I took winning and losing quite seriously. Fortunately with such a large population of people playing video games in the world, leagues were developing for those of us who wished to compete, and while my playing career was uneventful, it eventually lead to where I am now. When I stopped playing competitively in 2012, a friend of mine asked if I would “shout cast” (play-by-play commentary) a charity event at Dalhousie University. That event lead to me being asked to do a second event in Montreal in 2013, and from there I was hired by one of the largest organizations in North America to provide commentary on all of their professional division matches. In 2015, eSports reached a level where it was included in the Winter X-games in Aspen, CO, and I was the only North American to be included on the commentary and analytical team. From there, my career exploded and I was contracted by Twitch.tv and was part of 17 events in seven different THE HEAD ’S LETTER

countries all over the world last year. Q: You’ve travelled around the globe, what are the highlights of your career so far? A: The travel has been amazing. Meeting new people and learning about cultures has been a great experience. I’ve tried to use my free time to explore whenever possible. Being included in some of the largest events worldwide, in sold-out arenas, really puts in perspective how massive the scale of eSports really is, and how involved and engaged the fans are. At a recent event in Minsk, Belarus, there were hundreds of fans waiting outside of both the hotel and the VIP entrance to the venue hoping to meet some of the players and personalities after the matches. It’s amazing to see how big eSports has grown. Q: What impact have your years at Rothesay Netherwood School had on your career? A: The best lessons that RNS teaches, to me, are not the ones you learn in the classroom, but the ones you learn from being part of such an inclusive and close community. The cultures, ethnicities, diversity, and wide range of per-

Alumnus Matt Trivett ’07 (left) has turned a passion for gaming into a successful career as an eSports commentator.

sonalities teach you values that books and lectures can’t provide. The small population means that everyone is part of a community, and the athletic and arts programs prompt people to try new things. This involvement and community makes RNS students far more well-rounded and has played a part in myself being more relatable and charismatic on camera. ... Personal life? A: I’ve always been pretty active, so I try to maintain that as much as possible. When I am home I like to spend time swimming, water skiing, and mountain biking with my brother Will Trivett ’04 and my sister Sarah Trivett ’11. I also previously spent two years at NSCAD studying photography, so I still try to shoot as much as possible. I have an amazing five-year-old Husky/Boarder-Collie mix named Jayden who is my side-kick in pretty much everything I do. She keeps me in-line and in shape, and it’s extremely tough having to leave her for long periods at a time.

Mr. Blair, who was my advisor and soccer coach, as well as my physics and chemistry teacher, was the most energetic and enthusiastic teacher that I have ever met. He had a way of keeping the entire classroom not only engaged, but also thoroughly entertained. Every lesson he taught was something to look forward to due to his contagious attitude, which also made him someone that everyone enjoyed being around. It was proof that if you enjoyed what you did, and had fun doing it, it would positively affect those around you. In Grade 11, I was having a terrible year personally and academically. Without notice, Mr. McLellan showed up at my house one evening and took me out for a coffee. He set me on course so that I could succeed in school and get back on track, and made an effort to help me along the way. It was an incredibly courteous gesture, and epitomizes why I couldn’t be more pleased that Paul has been selected as the next Head of School.

Q: What are your favourite RNS memories? A: There are a lot of good memories – from RugbyFest and countless hours spent in the arena (I’ll never forget how cold it was for early morning practices), to school outings and class trips. Even shaving my head in front of the whole school.

Q: Do you keep in touch with your RNS friends? Who? A: I am still closest with and talk often with the same two I was closest with as classmates: Chon In Lee ’07 and Jon Hollway ’07. In is getting married this year in Hong Kong, and I’m very much looking forward to seeing and experiencing that with him!

If I had to pick one memory above all others, though, as hard as that would be, I think the Grade 10 winter camping/dog sledding trip stands out the most. It was extremely cold, and it made the whole class work together and support each other.

Q: In June, another group of RNS students will graduate. What advice can you give them? A: Find a way to use your personality to your advantage! I work an industry that has grown vastly on the prediction of its personality, rather than its professionalism. Competitive gaming never tried to be something that it wasn’t, and because it embraced it’s audience and what it was, it grew and developed into a massive community.

I also absolutely love huskies (hence Jayden), so I really enjoyed watching how a proper team of sled dogs behaved and interacted with each other. To top it off, the trip ended with a stint in Ottawa, where we got to sit in on parliament and skate on the Canal. Q: Is there any one teacher at RNS who helped to shape who you have become? Tell me about her/him. A: There were lots of great and engaging teachers who helped me become the person I am today, so it’s hard to narrow it down. However, there are two in particular to whom I owe many thanks.

The same principle can be applied on an individual level. No matter what you choose to do, whether it be a doctor, lawyer, business admin, or anything else ... the more of yourself you put into it, the more rewarding it will be. Q: What is your mantra? Words to live by? A: Always try to be the person that your dog thinks you are! WINTER/SPRING ’16

Giving back to

RNS

Our school community gives back to RNS to ensure that we continue to set the standard for excellence and provide an extraordinary educational experience for students for generations to come.

Thank you for making a difference. THE HEADâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LETTER

We like to think our support will assist other students to have a similar experience. JANE NORTHRUP â&#x20AC;&#x2122;82 ROTHESAY, NB

When I look back, it is hard to believe that I have been giving back to RNS for almost 25 years. Initially, I started because I was participating in some alumni events and thought it made sense to give a bit back to a place I enjoyed so much. There have been three generations of my family that have attended the school, so there is a sense of belonging that I appreciate. I hold RNS fondly in my heart as I have many good memories of life at Netherwood. Walking up the Hill every day to Rothesay Collegiate School with my friends for studies and activities is something I recall easily whenever I am there. The beautiful chapel

and campus provided inspiration on a daily basis during my formative years. Many of my teachers did the same. After our son Cole ’13 graduated from RNS, my husband Chris and I felt called to contribute. We were very pleased with the education Cole gained during his seven years at RNS. He experienced challenging studies, made deep and enduring friendships, achieved national accomplishments in sports, and conducted service work in Africa. We would like to think that in some small way our support of Annual Giving will assist other students to have a similar experience. Chris, Cole, and I are happy to be involved and to participate in the future of the school. We are thankful that it worked out well for our family. u

I donate to do my small part to help keep RNS possible for the next generation.

GEOFF HAMILTON ’97 MONTREAL, QC

I donate to RNS each year because I recognize that the school was exactly what I needed at that time in my life. Today, RNS is in better shape than it has ever been, thanks in part to the mindful stewardship of Mr. Kitchen, faculty and staff, but more importantly by the donations of time and money that have been kindly given over the years by the school’s many friends. I have benefitted greatly from my RNS education, but I sometimes worry that students like I was, unchallenged in their school work and from families of modest means, might be missing out on the opportunity to experience RNS. Now that I’m in a position to help out, I donate a little bit each month to do my small part to help keep RNS possible for the next generation of students. u

Interested in making a gift to RNS or telling us why you give? Email Nic Carhart in the Alumni Affairs & Development Office at giving@rns.cc or call (506) 848-0861. WINTER/SPRING ’16

Reunion Weekend 2016 Schedule - June 17, 18, & 19

Friday, June 17th 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Alumni Registration & Drop-in Centre | ALUMNI ROOM IN COLLEGIATE HALL

1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

139th Closing Ceremonies | SCHOOL HOUSE LAWN

6:00 pm - 8:00 pm 8:00 pm

Tours available and archival materials on display. All alumni welcome to attend graduation!

Welcome Back BBQ & Dance | RIVERSIDE GOLF CLUB

All alumni welcome! Meal includes hamburgers and sausages with assorted salads and apple pie. Cash bar. Alumni Dance & Party | RIVERSIDE GOLF CLUB

All alumni welcome. Cash bar and dancing with DJ Neil.

Saturday, June 18th 8:00 am - 11:00 am

The Reunion Weekend 2016 Schedule of Events is posted on the school website at www.rns.cc/reunion. The schedule will be updated regularly. For all other details, please contact the Alumni Office at 506.848.0869 or email at rsvp@rns.cc.

Semi-Annual General Meeting for the RNS Board of Directors and School Governors.

9:00 am - 11:00 am & 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Alumni Registration & Drop-in Centre | ALUMNI ROOM IN COLLEGIATE HALL

10:00 am - 12:15 pm

Alumni Brunch | HERITAGE HALL | Please join us!

12:30 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm 6:00 pm 8:00 pm - 11:00 pm

Tours available and archival materials on display.

Alumni Chapel Service | RNS MEMORIAL CHAPEL

A special presentation will be made to members of the Class of 1966 in honour of their 50th Reunion. Retiring Head of School, Paul Kitchen, will deliver his chapel speech. Everyone is invited! Alumni Race | SOUTH HOUSE LAWN | We invite alumni from all classes to join in on the fun! Casual Afternoon - Campus Store Open!

Enjoy the afternoon - tour the campus, visit your old room, hike to the dam, drop by the Alumni Room, spend time catching up with classmates, and visit the campus store (located in School House). Head’s Reception | 15 COLLEGE HILL ROAD

Alumni of all class years ending in a ’1 or a ’ 6 and friends are invited to attend. Please note: Official Class Reunion Photos will be taken. Photos begin at 4:15 pm, starting with the most senior classes. 7th Annual Founders’ Dinner | HERITAGE HALL

Welcome Reception at 6 pm; Dinner at 6:30 pm. There is assigned seating for this event. Space is limited. Alumni Dance | HERITAGE HALL

All Alumni welcome! Cash bar and late-night snacks. Dance the night away to the Big Band sounds of The Thomists.

Sunday, June 19th 10:00 am - 12:00 pm 11:00 am 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Alumni Drop-in Centre | ALUMNI ROOM IN COLLEGIATE HALL

The coffee pot will be on and archival materials on display.

Alumni Chapel Service | NETHERWOOD CHAPEL | All alumni welcome! Farewell Lobster Brunch & Reunion Awards Presentation | HERITAGE HALL

Meal includes seafood, individual omelettes, Belgian waffles, eggs, bacon, pasta, canapes, desserts, coffee, tea, and juice.

CLASS GIFTS ...

A Tradition

Giving

W 46

ith Spring now upon us, the RNS Alumni and Development Office is in the midst of preparations for the busiest weekend of the year on the Hill. The weekend of June 17-19, 2016, Rothesay Netherwood School hosts both the Closing Ceremonies and graduation as well as Alumni Reunion Weekend. These occasions mark a special time to celebrate.

On this weekend, both the Class of 2016 and many of the classes celebrating their Reunion, make a gift back to RNS. For our Grade 12 grad class, they work throughout the year to raise money for a special class project through their Lobster Dinner, Mother’s Day Brunch, or other fundraising activities.

For the Grade 12 graduates, they are leaving RNS for the next challenge in their young lives. During their time here they have developed a solid educational foundation, experienced tremendous personal growth, and developed lifelong friendships. Whatever they choose to do in life their RNS experience will have had a positive impact on them.

The most important thing is that the entire graduating class participates. For our reunion years many classes choose to give back to a special project or fund. Last year, the Netherwood Class of 1965 had 86%. Again, the most important thing is participation. These gifts to RNS have a tremendous impact on the school and the students who will benefit from this generosity for years to come and also help create a sense of community and giving.

Hundreds of alumni will return on Reunion Weekend to renew old friendships and acquaintances. Many of these alumni are in regular communication while others may not have seen one another for decades. One of the amazing occurrences of this special weekend is how old friendships are renewed in a matter of minutes.

On behalf of RNS, I would like to thank all donors past and present for their generosity and participation in their class gifts and wish all on the Hill a weekend filled with friendships and memories in June.

There is a common tie between the new graduates and the Alumni – RNS has helped shape the person they are. The leadership skills gained through the RNS experience has enabled alumni to positively contribute to their families, professions, and communities, and will enable the new graduates to follow in these footsteps. THE HEAD ’S LETTER

Rob Beatty Director of Development and Alumni Affairs.

WINTER/SPRING ’16

48 | THE HEAD’S LETTER

GATHERINGS RNS ASSOCIATION GATHERINGS SUMMERSIDE, PE | CHESTER, NS | HALIFAX, NS 1. The Hambly Family, Wilma, Matthew ’97, and Wayne at the PEI Gathering. 2. Paul and Barbara Schurman with Head of School, Paul Kitchen, and PEI Gathering host, Alfred Groom ’55. 3. Ashlyn Somers ’09 in Summerside. 4. A great group of alumni and RNS friends gathered at the home of Alfred Groom ’55 in Summerside, PE, this past August. 5. Derek Brown ’63, with Gail and Graham Scott ’60, at the Chester Gathering. 6. Judy (Logan) Bain ’60, Tory (Stanfield) Dymond ’61, and Cherry Ferguson ’65 at the Chester Gathering. 7. Wonderful weather and a water view greeted this group of RNS Alumni and friends at the home of Margie and Derek Brown ’63 in beautiful Chester, NS. 8. Paul and Elizabeth Kitchen with Chester Gathering hosts Derek Brown ’63 and his wife, Margie. 9. Isadora Cigarroa ’12, Paul Kitchen, and David Zhou ’14 at the Halifax Gathering. 10. It’s the Elizabeths! Past parent and past Chair of the Board, Elizabeth Meier, past parent, Elizabeth Cameron, Elizabeth Kitchen, and parent, Elizabeth DeLuisa, attend the Halifax Gathering. 11. A group of RNS alumni and friends enjoyed an evening at The Dalhousie Club in Halifax. 12. Parents, David and Mechelle Mosher at the Halifax Gathering.

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50 | THE HEAD’S LETTER

GATHERINGS RNS ASSOCIATION GATHERINGS SHEDIAC, NB | FREDERICTON, NB 1. Marion and Charles Baxter ’54 and Vicky and Brian Baxter ’62 at the Shediac Gathering. 2. Ayu, Martha ’18, and Brian Pitre in Shediac. 3. Parents Paul Gunn and Helen Macnab-Gunn in Shediac. 4. The Shediac Gathering, hosted by Karen and Brian Ritchie ’62 at The Tait House, drew a crowd of RNS alumni and friends. 5. The Ritchie Family, Brooke, Cole ’18, David ’89, and Joyce at the Shediac Gathering. 6. Brian Ritchie ’62 with Paul Kitchen, and Jim Irving ’46 in Shediac. 7. Gerry Dayton, wife of Frank Dayton ’50, and Geri Hickman, wife of Joe Hickman ’50, in Shediac. 8. Avery ’55 and Vivian McCordick at the Fredericton Gathering. 9. A group of RNS alumni and friends enjoyed an evening at UNB’s WU Conference Centre in Fredericton, NB. 10. Parents Darla and John Slipp and Carol and Darin Tracey at the Fredericton Gathering. 11. Past parents, Janet and Geoff Thompson, in Fredericton. 12. Hilary Drain ’74, Judy Clendening, and Boyd Ritchie ’51 at the Fredericton Gathering.

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GATHERINGS RNS ASSOCIATION GATHERINGS TORONTO, ON | SAINT JOHN, NB | KINGSTON, ON 1. Joan and John Champ ’60, with Sondy Mackay ’63 and her son, Tony Carter, in Toronto. 2. Joseph Park ’04, Mark Bessoudo ’00, Sandra Bessoudo, Shera Nezon, D'Arcy Cooney ’00 and Chris Kodama ’01 at the Toronto Gathering. 3. A large group turned out for the Toronto Gathering held at the Rosedale Golf Club in October. 4. It’s the Kitchens! Kathy, David, Paul, John, Jim and Karen, and Susan. 5. Doreen (Allison) Tuomola ’51 in Toronto. 6. Paul Kitchen with Toronto Gathering hosts, Lindsay (Stollery) Jephcott ’00 and Roslyn Stollery. 7. Jeff Kitchen ’03, Brittany (Halpin) Kitchen ’04, and Brittany Flood ’05 at the Saint John Young Alumni Christmas Social. 8. Larry Osmond and Katherine Castonguay ’07 at the Saint John Young Alumni Christmas Social. 9. Brother and sister team, Will ’04 and Sarah ’11 Trivett in Saint John. 10. An intimate group of Young Alumni enjoyed a January evening at REDS Midtown Tavern in Toronto. Back row: Sarah Flawn ’05, Diana MacVey ’06, and Roger Marino ’82. Front row: Liz Aldous ’07, Tara George (past faculty and staff), Blake Williams ’03, and Colin Chan ’09. 11. Recent graduates Darcy Wells ’15, Blaire Magee ’15, and Mae-Lin Delange ’15, all students at Queen’s University, met up for the Kingston Young Alumni Reception at The Brass Pub.

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GATHERINGS A MARITIME SATURDAY NIGHT ~ DINNER, AUCTION, DANCE 1. Well over 400 people filled Heritage Hall for A Maritime Saturday Night ~ Dinner, Auction and Dance held on November 7, 2015. This annual fundraiser featured the talented and hilarious James Mullinger as host and auctioneer, as well as live entertainment by local band, Radio Factory. More than $60,000 was raised. As you can see, it was an evening of laughs and lots of fun. 2. Parents Sophie McAloon (mother of Jonah ’20 and Jack-Angus ’21), Jennifer Roos (mother of Katherine ’18 and Heather ’20 Chisholm), Jeff McAloon (father of Jonah ’20 and Jack-Angus ’21), and Patrick Oland (father of Alec ’20 and James ’22). 3. Bob and Teresa Teskey (parents of Bradley ’14, Adam ’15, and Olivia ’17). 4. Guests danced the night away to the sounds of local band Radio Factory. 5. Past parents Patrick Ervin and Nancy Creamer-Ervin (Stephanie ’07 and Adrienne ’10 Ervin). 6. Cory and Ian ’91 Brett (parents of Caleb ’18 and Sedona ’20). 7. Guests Andrew and Victoria Clarke with RNS parents Matt and Tammy Earle (Ryan ’16 and Shayna ’18). 8. Lindsay Downey (mother of Colin ’22) and friend, Krista Currie. 9. Host and auctioneer, James Mullinger takes bids on one of the many live auction items. 10. Cynthia VanBuskirk (mother of Cecil ’16), Daphne Waye (mother of Camryn Baker ’22), with friend, Pauline Lordon. 11. John and Anne Oxley (parents of Angus ’19 and Isaac ’21). 12. Jill Oland (mother of Alec ’20 and James ’22) with friends, Karen Keating-Small and Cathy Connolly-White.

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Attention all book lovers and book club members! Join us for a dinner and talk with prize-winning author

LAWRENCE HILL

TUESDAY • JUNE 28TH • 2016 Reception 5:00pm | Dinner 6:00pm | Keynote 7:00pm

In Heritage Hall on the RNS Campus Lawrence Hill is the author of 10 books, including The Illegal and The Book of Negroes, winner of numerous awards including The Commonwealth Writers’ Prize, the Rogers Writers’ Trust Fiction Prize, and CBC Radio’s Canada Reads. Hill co-wrote the adaptation for the six-part television miniseries The Book of Negroes, which attracted millions of viewers in the United States and Canada. He is currently writing a new novel and a children’s book, and co-writing a television miniseries adaptation of The Illegal for Conquering Lion Pictures.

Bring your book club to a three-course meal and keynote address at the evening reception and dinner of the 2016 Learn2Learn Conference!

Tickets $30 each Table of 8 for $200

Tickets are available at the RNS Office or by calling 506.847.8224.

PRESENTED BY:

June 28-30, 2016

www.learn2learn.ca

FOURTH ANNUAL

CONFERENCE 2016

40 College Hill Road | Rothesay, NB education@rns.cc | www.rns.cc