HUM A N TI TAS T
h u m a n i ta s
A publication of gratitude for the donors and supporters of St Joseph’s Institution International School 2014
“Show much kindness and love for the young people you teach.” – De La Salle’s Meditations
“Enabling youth to learn how to learn, and to learn how to live, empowering them to become people of integrity and people for others.” – Mission Statement, SJI International
welcome We welcome you – our donors, supporters, friends and colleagues – to our 2014 Annual Report on the work of the Advancement and Communications Office. But, it’s not just about our work, and the gifts we have received – though we give full and grateful thanks for those – it is also about what your gifts have inspired; the stories told by students and parents of the richness of the education they have received that has been enabled by our Scholarship Fund through your gifts. It also salutes the practical gifts given by parents and supporters through projects such as the sensory and edible garden, the Christmas fair and unique ventures such as our collaboration with Meerkatplace. We hope that you enjoy the stories contained in this edition. We are particularly proud that five of the seven students who achieved a perfect score of 45 in the 2014 IB exams were Scholars. So we have shared all their stories (you can read them on p 18-22) – and they are just the tip of a large iceberg of exceptional Scholars that confirms and affirms that our Scholarship Programme is in very sound condition and is offering an exceptional education to outstanding students. It also allows us to showcase the diversity and maturity of these students, their experiences, their motivations and their aspirations. We know you will enjoy reading about them. We thank you and hope you take justifiable pride in the students’ testimonials and that they inspire you to continue to support the work of the school. Dr Koh Thiam Seng CEO SJI International
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“My own daughter and five wards are at SJI International. I witness their transformation. Just one word: amazing! I am delighted to have this chance to give. Honestly, compared to what my girl and wards have received, what we give is nothing.� – Jessica Chen, Parent
contents Messages 8 Sources of Kindness 12 Purpose of Kindness 14
The Impact of Support 16 Community and Giving 26 The Gift Beyond 34
Our Circles of Gratitude 36 About Us 43
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messages
Brother Lawrence Humphrey, FSC Brother President St Joseph’s Institution International
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Making Miracles Happen It can be said that the remarkable progress of St Joseph’s Institution International in just eight years is miraculous. From the first class of 104 students the school has grown into a thriving institution of 1640 students who are indeed some of the finest young people in the world. The SJI International miracle is possible through the grace of God and because of the outstanding support of our parents, benefactors, friends, and alumni. Although you might not have explained a mathematical theorem, led a group of students on an expedition, conducted the orchestra or directed a theatrical performance, or coached a team to victory, all of these experiences, and so many more, are available to many of our students only because of your support. Indeed, some of our best students would not have access to an SJI International education without the generosity of our benefactors and friends. And the charitable giving of our donors is itself a valuable lesson demonstrated to all students who witness your belief in the mission of our school. (Lasallian ethos)
We often speak of the SJI International experience as transformational, for truly, the lives of our students are changed in dramatic ways during their time with us. During this 50th anniversary year for Singapore, we are reminded of the impact that our school makes not only on the education of its own citizens but also on young people from some 40 other countries as well. So it is no exaggeration to say that a school like ours makes a world of difference, both in the lives of current students, and also through the impact our young alumni are already making in their diverse communities across the globe. St John Baptist de La Salle, Founder of the De La Salle Brothers, advised his first teachers that “To touch the hearts of your students is the greatest miracle you can perform . . . and one that God expects of you”. Your generosity to SJI International this year will have lasting results in the hearts and lives of the students we have been able to reach because of your support. Thank you for making miracles happen every day at SJI International.
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United in a Common Purpose Mr Kevin Hannah
Principal of the Elementary School St Joseph’s Institution International
The Elementary School (ES) continues to support the efforts of the Advancement and Communications Office (ACO) in two key areas – the fostering of a One School Identity and the raising of funds for the school. The Elementary Parent Support Group (EPSG) has played an instrumental role in garnering support from the ES community for both of these. Among the wide range of activities that the EPSG has organised is the Christmas Fair. This is the most anticipated event in our school calendar, one which the children love attending and taking part in. It is organised and managed by the EPSG, with the purpose of raising funds for our Global Initiatives. During the Fair, the ACO also took up a booth to sell merchandise, with proceeds from sales benefiting the Scholarship Fund. I am delighted that the ES and High School have grown closer over the past year, with more collaborations and activities that bring the children, staff and parents
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of both schools together. For example, ES parents have contributed to the success of the Industry Dialogues organised by the ACO, both as speakers and members of the audience, and both communities have participated in the wonderful Meerkatplace initiative. As a school, we are continually grateful for the ongoing support of the ES community, and we look forward to this continuing and expanding. In 2015, a new initiative has been launched for the Scholarship Fund, the Plant a Tree Campaign. This campaign will, for the first time, offer ES school parents the opportunity to contribute directly to the Scholarship Fund through the adoption, sponsorship or purchase of a tree to be planted in a special area of the Elementary School. We look forward to the gradual planting of a grove of trees as a tangible sign of the Elementary School’s support of the Scholarship Fund.
Growing Our Network of Support Mr Bradley Roberts
Principal of the High School St Joseph’s Institution International
From its earliest days, SJI International has been very fortunate to have the support of a large group of benefactors. Now in our ninth year, our school continues to grow, reaching a new record number of almost 980 students, with just over 350 students in the IB Diploma Programme. Our Advancement and Communications Office (ACO) seeks to further enhance the support and communication we provide to our network of alumni, parents and friends. The ACO Team works to expand the network of SJI International supporters who can help us push forward with our mission as a top-tier Catholic, Lasallian International school. The 2014 contributions towards the various development activities totalled $2,100,000; clearly showing the outstanding level of support SJI International receives. The funds raised will provide scholarships to students who would not otherwise be able to take advantage of the high quality holistic education we offer here. From the outset, the SJI International community has benefited from the influence of talented young men and women from all parts of the region who have laid the foundations of our distinctive ethos. Many of these early Scholars have already graduated from prestigious institutions such as Oxford, Harvard and UBC, or, closer to home, from NUS and SMU. In 2014, five of our scholarship students scored a perfect 45 points in the IB Diploma (a feat only achieved by 280 students around the world). Our 2014 scholarship graduates have been offered places at Oxford, Cambridge,
Stanford, Yale and many other outstanding universities. One of our scholarship graduates, Brian Theng (Class of 2012), has recently been awarded the Jardine Foundation Scholarship to study at Oxford. Another scholarship recipient has been offered a Public Service Commission (PSC) Scholarship, and Ruru Hoong has accepted a GIC Scholarship. Our scholarship students are truly ambassadors of SJI International; proud representatives of SJI International around the world. In 2014, for the first time, we offered scholarships to two deserving students from the Philippines. In 2016 we will further develop our Scholarship Programme to focus on bringing in students (both local and foreign) from homes where the SJI International educational experience is completely unaffordable. From 2016, all contributions from donors will be used only for meritand means-based scholarships. We are extremely grateful to the parents of the graduating Class of 2014 who donated almost $100,000 towards the Scholarship Programme through the gifting of their Security deposits. The focus on students from less affluent backgrounds will have a life-changing impact on the students selected. Our ambitious Scholarship Programme is only possible with your support. We look forward to continuing to make a real difference to the lives of our scholarship students – only possible with your continued support. 11
sources of kindness
Donations in
2013
$35,344
Alumni & Alumni Parents
$24,000
Board
$3,524,150
Friends & Misc
$378,100
Parents
$17,425
Staff
$1,668
Students
Total Amount Raised in 2013: $3,980,687 12
Alumni & Alumni Parents
$21,519
Board
$11,800
Friends & Misc Parents Staff Students
$1,098,009 $950,603 $15,375
Donations in
2014
$1,158
Total Amount Raised in 2014: $2,098,464 13
purpose of kindness
Gifts to the Scholarship and Bursary Fund
Donations in
2013
Alumni & Alumni Parents
$34,844
Board
$23,000
Friends & Misc Parents Staff
2014
$17,425 $1,688
Alumni & Alumni Parents
$8,519 $11,800
Friends & Misc
$813,412
Parents
$901,973
Staff Students 14
$205,000
Students
Board
Donations in
$3,277,935
$15,375 $1,158
Gifts to the Building and Development Fund
$500
Alumni & Alumni Parents
$1,000
Board
$246,215
Friends & Misc
$173,100
Parents
$13,000
Alumni & Alumni Parents
$284,597
Friends & Misc
$48,630
Parents
Donations in
2013
Donations in
2014
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the impact of support
Transformative Experiences Joshua Fung
SJI International Alumnus: Class of 2014 Recipient of a Megabuilders and Development Pte Ltd Scholarship International Baccalaureate score: 45 points First impressions count. They count because they are often what we remember when we leave. They count because they last. And besides, as a history student, I like to go back to the beginning and begin right from the start. The first thing that struck me about SJI International was the vibrancy and energy of its student community. I was amazed by the fact that every day after school, the majority of my classmates would not just pack their bags and leave, but instead would stay. Coming from an education system in East Malaysia where extra-curricular activities were relegated to a single day of the week, I was pleasantly surprised to be in a school which not only accommodated all manner of sports, artistic endeavours and zany student interests, but actually encouraged them – every day! To me, a significant aspect of learning is experience. And I am very fortunate to have been given the invaluable opportunity of an education at SJI International which extended far beyond the classroom. In my short time at SJI International I did things I never imagined I would, or even could, do. I kayaked in the ocean for what felt like miles (each second longing for the shore); I abseiled down a waterfall (each second longing for solid ground); I shaved my head to support childhood cancer patients – fortunately it grew back in time for my rendition of Maroon 5’s jazz hit Sunday Morning at SJI International’s Got Talent; I got upset at debate competitions; I kept my cool as President of the Senior Council (most of the time); I learned to speak softly while helping at an old folk’s home; I learned to communicate volubly on the football pitch. In the classroom, things proved equally exciting. While previously science had just been a matter of memorising the theories of Newton or Mendel, this was replaced by a mode of learning based on questioning rather than accepting those theories, and, more importantly, actually testing some of them 18
and seeing the results for myself. In English, gone were the days of grammar exercises and simple comprehension that I had become accustomed to back in Malaysia. Introduced to the war poetry of Wilfred Owen, the drama of Shakespeare’s plays, as well as the stark realism of Emile Zola, the subject sparked to life for me, leading down a rabbit hole of ever more wondrous literary works waiting to be read, discussed, analysed, annotated, and of course, loved. The international community at SJI International was another significant change for me. Coming from a Chinese school in my hometown of Kota Kinabalu, it was an eye-opening experience to meet, interact, and sometimes befriend fascinating students (and teachers) from all over the world. Bringing perspectives spanning the globe from Australia to Canada and many places in between, they made the content of classroom discussions, and indeed much of school culture, that much richer in diversity and interest. Reflecting upon my time at SJI International, it is difficult to describe those five years as anything other than transformative. Acquiring the art of learning, being taught how to serve, pushing the borders of my comfort zone everyday – these are just some of the many ways in which my experiences have changed me. And I have little doubt that they will put me in very good stead as I prepare to study law at the University of Cambridge, and look to a career as a practising barrister, wherever in the world that may be. For all this I am grateful. Not only to my family for their love and my teachers for their dedication, devotion, and care, but also to Megabuilders and Development Pte Ltd whose scholarship gave me the means, motivation, and opportunity for a great education at SJI International. Adieu and thank you!
Learning About Life Tuan Doan Nguyen
SJI International Alumnus: Class of 2014 Recipient of a Khoo Teck Puat Foundation Scholarship International Baccalaureate score: 45 points I have never regretted my decision to come to SJI International. The journey that I have taken in the last three years was by no means a stroll in a park, much less an unguided trudge on a jungle trail. What I found unique about SJI International is its constant support for its students and its commitment to empower every individual. An elite educational system, a close-knit, supportive community and a genuine mission to serve “the last, the lost, the least�, SJI International is the true embodiment of its SMILES values: S- spirituality, M- mutual respect, I- internationalism, L- leadership, E- Experience and S- service. Yet, after all, SJI International is a school and at SJI International, I learnt important lessons. I learnt about life. I learnt to showcase my own culture by performing Vietnamese traditional dances at the Cultural Carnival, and at the same time, learnt to appreciate other cultures by playing the Indonesian Gamelan and singing their folk songs. I learnt to be strong, to take educated risks, to look at my own weaknesses and shortcomings with reflective eyes and to rise above hardship. It was at SJI International that I stood up and gave an eight-minute debate speech, despite my fear of public speaking and my shirt soaked in the sweat of nervousness; and that my five-foot-five body could leap against all the others for a powerful header in football. I learnt to serve, bringing shiny smiles and laughter to disabled children after school or, by busking in the school foyer, raising funds for a tetanus vaccination project in Africa. I learnt to lead; as a member of the Senior School Council, I embraced the leadership role and represented the senior school students by organising lots of events such as Hair for Hope, Prom, Graduation Day and Night of Worship. Most importantly, I learnt to believe in myself and walk my own trail in life. The three years at SJI International have opened my eyes to a new world of opportunities. I achieved a score of 45 for my IB Diploma and have secured a full scholarship to pursue higher education and my interest in Political Science at Yale University. These are the wonderful achievements I would not have dreamt of, had it not been for the teachers, the education and the support that I have had at SJI International, all made possible because of the scholarship I received. So, most of all, I would like to express my most sincere thanks to the Khoo Teck Puat Foundation for its kindness and support. I am thankful for your gift and promise to strive to reach the highest possible standard, epitomising the SMILES values of SJI International.
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Staying the Course Vu Duc Nam
SJI International Alumnus: Class of 2014 Recipient of a Peter Lim Foundation Scholarship International Baccalaureate score: 45 points Before coming to Singapore, I thought it would be quite easy to study here, having heard from my friends and relatives that the Vietnamese curriculum is the toughest one. But when I arrived I was quite afraid when my seniors talked about how difficult the IB is, and I started to feel the heat in my Foundation IB year. English was one of the pains. Getting into the different co-curricular activities (CCAs) was the other, since my schools in Vietnam offered none. I remember walking into my first English lesson, and Mrs Bull called me up and privately told me that, based on my Grade 10 English teacher’s comment, she thought I would not be able to complete the English A Language and Literature course, which is intended for native speakers. I was quite frustrated, convincing myself that I would be able to ace the course since I knew that the English B content was quite easy for me. I like a challenge so I strove for it hard. I read. I wrote. I listened. I took my time to invest in English and I gradually saw my results improve, although not that fast. I was still a mediocre student at the end of Grade 11 (though I’d finally convinced my teacher that I could do the English A course). But I started to improve in Grade 12, constantly scoring a 7 until the very last IB exam in English. So the first lesson for me was that results might not come quickly, but you should still shoot for the goal because eventually you’ll succeed; I did not give up through the whole of Grade 11, and finally I was rewarded. The CCAs were not quite so much of a challenge since I enjoy extra activities myself, even more than studying. So I took up a lot of CCAs – up to 11 of those, and I can say that they have been a real gain for me. I grew as a person by developing my different facets, from running to playing basketball to helping others. And it felt quite different to be able to do all of those while still maintaining good academic performance – I became confident in myself. I would like to thank Mr Peter Lim for his generosity in providing me with a scholarship. The scholarship has offered me a lot. Part of the reason I did not give up was that I would never allow myself to waste the money that my donor had invested in me. The Scholar community around me was also a great one, especially my roommate Tue, who helped me a lot in my early days in Singapore and my friend Linh, who was always by my side. The other important aspect of the SJI International community was my teachers. Apart from Mrs Bull whom I’ve already mentioned, there’s my Maths teacher Mr Denousse, who re-ignited my Maths-loving flame through the challenging problems he sometimes showed me when I was bored – it was quite funny really, doing Maths for recreation! But that is how SJI International has been to me: it has never failed to be unconventional, and has never failed to push me forward.
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A Place to Pursue My Passions Le Nguyen Nhat Thu
SJI International Alumna: Class of 2014 Recipient of a Jean-Marie Beurel Scholarship International Baccalaureate score: 45 points My time at SJI International has been an amazing journey of growth and exploration. Not only could I delve into my academic interests and stretch my limits through the rigorous IB curriculum, but I also became a better person for others through various community service activities. Receiving the Jean-Marie Beurel Scholarship to attend SJI International was a turning point in my life since it opened up vast academic opportunities that were impossible when I was in Vietnam. Although the Vietnamese curriculum was rigorous, the knowledge content did not keep up with recent advances in the world and the learning methods did not promote critical thinking and creativity. Therefore, despite getting satisfactory results, I always wanted a different academic environment where I could face challenges, test my limits and develop my creativity. SJI International gave me all of those. There I could prepare for my future career as a researcher in medicine development by studying the principles of drug design and conducting original research for my Extended Essay. Moreover, the Theory of Knowledge course allowed me to look beyond what is written in textbooks and delve into the very process of knowledge acquisition, offering new and valuable perspectives. In addition, the combination of theory and practice at SJI International is hard to find in Vietnam. Even though I attended a Chemistryspecialised class in Grade 10, we only had two laboratory sessions throughout the entire year. That made the numerous scientific experiments I was able to perform at SJI International even more exciting. Therefore, I will always feel privileged to have been able to attend this great
school, especially since it was made possible through the generosity of our donors. The Creativity, Action and Service activities also formed a large part of my amazing experiences. Although I truly enjoy helping others, there were very few volunteer opportunities for high school students in Vietnam. Therefore, upon entering SJI International and being introduced to the full range of service activities, I was overwhelmed at first and did not feel confident because I was so inexperienced in service compared to my peers. However, some time after joining the Interact Club, I learned that there was nothing to fear. Regardless of how long we had been doing community service, as Lasallians, we all shared a passion for lessening the burden of people around us. I also decided to use my experience in organising service projects to create more opportunities for youth in my own home city to volunteer. In sum, I would like to express my gratitude to the SJI International teachers, staff and my fellow students for their tireless support and endless inspiration, without which I could not have achieved what I did in the IB Diploma Programme. I would also like to thank my hostel guardian, Matron Josephine Subramaniam, for providing me with a second home. Finally, to our generous donors who made my dream for a more holistic education a reality, I am indebted to you for believing in my potential and in the value of such a wonderful opportunity for students from developing countries like me. I am sure your support will continue to attract top students from around the world to SJI International.
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Being in My Element Hoong Juan Ru (Ruru)
SJI International Alumna: Class of 2014 Recipient of a Megabuilders and Development Pte Ltd Scholarship International Baccalaureate score: 45 points “Being in your element is not only about aptitude, it’s about passion: it is about loving what you do.” – Sir Ken Robinson Walking down the bustling corridors of SJI International, it soon becomes very evident that passion is what defines our school. I belonged to a cohort of amazing individuals that started their own companies, coded their own apps, and designed their own fashion lines – and that was just the tip of the iceberg; the sheer diversity, whether in background or in outlook, never ceased to astound me.
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environment at school certainly allowed for the pursuit of my own academic interests, but also gave me the opportunity to do so much more: organise activities and charity events with the Senior Council and Lasallian Youth Council, start my own extracurricular activity, edit the newspaper for our school’s OneVoice publication, join the tennis and badminton clubs, speak at several Advancement and Communications Office events, emcee assemblies and so on. The opportunities were endless, and in involving myself in the school community I became a much more well-rounded, well-spoken, and confident individual.
It is the dedication of our teachers that makes SJI International an environment that is conducive to innovation and passion. Teachers were always supportive of our interests, and always emphasised learning for the sake of learning rather than for the attainment of a certain grade. When I decided I wanted to pursue Literature at a Higher Level midway through Grade 11, I wasn’t discouraged from taking 4 Higher Levels. It didn’t matter to my teachers that taking an extra Higher Level might result in a fall in my grades, what mattered was what I would potentially gain from the course. What I loved most about SJI International was the supportive, open learning environment that wasn’t purely predicated upon grades or some other quantitative measure of achievement – teachers emphasised the learning process of how to get there. That made a huge difference. Allowing students to make mistakes let us learn from those mistakes, and enabled us to achieve so much more. At SJI International there are no limits to what you can achieve – you define your own limits, whether academic or social.
And that is the value of an education at SJI International, an education that was made possible to all of us Scholars by the generosity of the scholarship donors. We were able to see, as Ken Robinson puts it, our creative capacities for the richness that they are. And this open-mindedness, this freedom to explore different perspectives, has brought so much more to the table.
As a child I was a quiet, reserved, and academic student – I was quite happy to immerse myself in my books and never emerge from my world of Fermat’s theorems and Shakespeare. After joining SJI International, I found that the
And that is what SJI International has enabled me to do – to fulfil the mission so prominently displayed on the wall above the school concourse: enter to learn – leave to serve.
The diversity of opinion was astounding. As Aristotle said, the mark of an educated man (and woman) is to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it. That’s what we were taught to do, for it is only through being able to entertain a whole host of opinions and perspectives that we can seek to employ ourselves in the best way possible to serve our communities in the future. This heart for service is at the core of the SJI International ethos, and will stick with me even as I continue my studies at Stanford University, California, as a recipient of a GIC Scholarship. I aim to pursue a liberal arts degree, after which I want to return to Singapore to work.
My Experience as an SJI International Parent Chung Wei Han
I was asked to write about my experience as an SJI International parent, partly because of my daughter Ruru’s achievement in the IB exams. But how much of Ruru’s success is attributable to SJI International? Would she have had such success if she had been schooled elsewhere? The answer is probably yes. But would she have had the same enriching growing-up experience that has made her the confident and open-minded person that she is today? The answer is definitely no. Sending her to SJI International was one of the best decisions we have ever made, so, what is so special about SJI International, and what sets it apart from other schools? “A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.” – Henry Adams When a child starts going to school, the time spent with his teachers on a daily basis exceeds the time spent with his parents. Because many parents are holding down busy jobs and daily interaction is limited, in most cases the scales are tipped heavily in favour of the teachers. I do not know what criteria SJI International uses to recruit its teachers, but they should stick with it because the teachers who taught Ruru were not only well qualified and competent but were passionate (some were zealous) about teaching. Of course, the fact that class sizes were relatively small allowed for ample teacher-student interaction time. But they were also prepared to invest time and effort in building good relationships with their students. The rapport they built and their enthusiastic affirmation of their students’ efforts and progress (even when it was small) motivated the kids to strive to do well.
just chemistry, literature, maths or economics – she learnt that the world is a diverse and interesting place and that studying and doing well is not all there is to life but just a first step to getting ready for the many interesting opportunities out there. “ Your habits become your values. Your values become your destiny.” – Gandhi As parents, we all want our kids to grow up to be people of integrity, compassion, who are socially conscious and hardworking. Just like us! Imparting values is undeniably the most important responsibility of parents and is done from a young age, by consciously telling them what’s right and wrong, and unconsciously through the way we behave and treat others. In reality, of course, as the poet Philip Larkin says, we also fill our kids with the faults we have and maybe even add some extras, just for them! SJI International is a Catholic school that emphasises respect for, and celebrates, all faiths, and really strives to stay true to its mission of offering a values-driven education. Students in Grade 7 are all inducted into the SMILES award programme which is designed to recognise achievements, not just in the academic arena but in service, co-curricular and outdoor education. The aim is to develop the core values of Spirituality, Mutual Respect, Internationalism, Leadership, Experience and Service. These are all laudable values that we would wish our children to have and are a keystone of the truly holistic education provided by SJI International. In summary, my experience with SJI International has been very positive and I look forward to a further six years of being an SJI International parent!
Ruru got to know many of her teachers as individuals. I know that she learnt much more than 23
Scholarship Awards Ceremony 2014 St Joseph’s Institution International held its 2014 Scholarship Awards Ceremony in the Glass Hall on 7th February. It was a celebratory occasion as 40 Scholars from 2013 and 2014 received their scholarships – 21 local students and 19 international students. Our Brother President, Brother George opened the evening with a prayer, and was followed by our High School Principal, Mr Bradley Roberts who gave a short speech. The event was graced by Guest-of-Honour, Mr Christopher de Souza, Member of Parliament for Holland-Bukit Timah GRC who is also an old boy of SJI. Parents of the Scholars who attended the event applauded loudly when their children were proudly in the limelight receiving their scholarships from Mr de Souza. The ceremony was followed by a three-course dinner, which was accompanied by music performed by Grade 12 IB
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Music students. Students from the Student Advancement Board assisted at the event, along with two Scholars, Ruru Hoong and Joshua Fung who were excellent MCs. “I am deeply grateful to the Khoo Teck Puat Foundation for awarding me an SJI International Scholarship. This gives me the opportunity to experience the vigorous and exciting IB programme at SJI International. I hope that in my next two years here, I will learn more and grow, and that one day I will be able to help others and give back to society,” says local Scholar, Alexus Gian. Thank you to all staff and students who helped with this joyous event and congratulations to all our Scholars and their families. We know that they will live up to the proud traditions begun by the many Scholars that have preceded them.
facing page: scholars of 2014 from top: tessa aneet kaur receiving her scholarship from mr de souza masters of ceremony ruru hoong and joshua fung mr de souza and the vips
community and giving
Collaborating with Creative Talents for a Cause Meerkatplace
SJI International is blessed to have an exceptionally supportive community of parents without whom it would not be able to sustain its Scholarship and Building Funds. It is due to one of our Elementary School (ES) parents that we are now enjoying a collaboration with Meerkatplace, a charity crowd-sourced project instigated by Nelle (aged 6) and Viv (aged 9, and an SJI International ES student) that lets artists of all ages support their favourite charity through their art. Partnering with Meerkatplace allows our students to share their artwork with a wide community and for the benefit of the SJI International Scholarship Fund. So far, more than 50 art works and photos have been contributed by our students and staff, and are available for purchase as greeting cards (both printed and in e-card form), archival exhibition canvases, fine art prints or luggage tags. There is a wide range of these beautiful works which can be viewed at www.meerkatplace.org/collections/sjii. Although the venture was launched only in the last quarter of 2014, already more than $500 has been raised for the SJI International Scholarship Fund – a fantastic start to an innovative and enterprising project that not only raises money but also provides a wonderfully creative outlet for aspiring artists of all ages. The partnership with Meerkatplace is an excellent example of an initiative that brings together the entire SJI International community of students, parents and staff from both the Elementary School and High School. We hope that all our donors will in turn consider supporting Meerkatplace so that the Scholarship Fund can benefit even further through your purchase of the high-quality cards and other items that are for sale. The Advancement and Communications Office is proud to lead the way by purchasing its thank you cards exclusively from Meerkatplace.
“Meerkatplace is like a marketplace for art, but better. I chose meerkats because meerkats are very generous and they work together.” – Nelle
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The Gift of a Garden Allowing our children to do what they do best, to play – the Elementary School’s Sensory Garden was set up with that broad aim. In a project initiated by the Elementary Parent Support Group (EPSG), the garden was created with the aim of having the Early Years children learn creatively as they play while using the outdoors as a classroom. Facilities that are part of the project, such as a large sandbox, a pirate ship, various wigwams, and music zone comprising a large wooden xylophone, drum in the shape of a turtle and pagoda bells, all engage the children’s senses and connect them with the natural world. The Sensory Garden was officially opened on 1st September 2014. The occasion honoured the two founding Garden Committee parents, Ms Nienke Muller and Ms Susie Blackburn, who had worked on the project with the Early Years Head Mrs Louise Agar, for their inspirational vision and concept design, as Mr Kevin Hannah, Principal of the Elementary School and Br Larry, our Brother President, along with the Preparatory Grade children, joined in a ribbon-cutting ceremony. A small rambutan tree was also planted by Mr Hannah to honour the contributions of the founding principal, Mrs Louise Grant. Now the garden is not just an outdoor classroom, but also a place for growth and new life and, as things will grow organically, so has the Sensory Garden. Once this first part of the project was nearly complete (and by a very happy coincidence) a parent mentioned a growing trend for edible gardens in Singapore and that they would be able to help bring the planting, maintenance and harvesting side of the garden to life. Another bid for funding was made to the EPSG and the edible garden was set up over the holidays. It is now a teacher-led extra-curricular activity and produce is harvested for events such as the Christmas Fair, and also for sale during drop-off in the mornings. This project, which started off as an Early Years initiative, now includes elements for the older children such as the herbal and aromatherapy garden and sound wall. The garden has truly become a full nature classroom experience for all the children, and a place for interaction and community building throughout the grades. For all this we give thanks for the vision, creativity, and much hard physical work by the Parent Support Group.
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from top: picking, packing, selling!
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winner for g11 and grand prize - snow white at 13,000 feet mihir savadi “We were up high in the Eastern Himalayas, when it suddenly started snowing. Within the span of a few minutes everything turned from lush green and brown, to absolute white. Challenging yourself above and beyond your limits always has its rewards, and so does having the Lasallian Spirit.”
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people’s choice winner - the spirit christian ching
winner for g7 - bee and flora tan khiat en joseph gabriel
“As the sun sets over Venice, Italy, it casts the city into a silhouette with a crimson sky behind. The sun symbolises the Lasallian Spirit, as even when it does set to rest, it casts a glow on everything around it. To me the Lasallian Spirit is something that also never truly goes away, and it always rises up again within us.”
“Hard at work, just another small bee is doing his duty to serve a much greater cause; and everyone else.”
Capturing the Lasallian Spirit: Photograph of the Year 2014 Exhibition and Auction On Thursday, 25th September, the Advancement and Communications Office held its third annual Photograph of the Year Exhibition and Auction in the Glass Hall. The aim of the competition and exhibition was to celebrate the creative talents of our students and to then display their photos for others to enjoy and purchase. Ms Jessica Tan, Chair of the SJI International Scholarship Committee, kindly agreed to grace the event as our Guest-of-Honour. The theme of the competition – Capturing the Lasallian Spirit – was one that is close to the hearts of many in the school community and there was a flurry of entries from enthusiastic students and staff. On the day a total of 49 photos were exhibited and were available for silent bids. Seven finalists were also chosen and their photographs were auctioned live by our amazing pair of in-house auctioneers: Mr Greg Thorpe and Mr Alistair Wood. After some brisk bidding, a grand total of $10,651 was raised through the event, as well as through sponsorships from parents. All proceeds boosted the Scholarship Fund. Snow White at 13,000 Feet by Mihir Savadi (11NGh) was selected from among the seven finalists as the Grand Prize Winner. Mihir was very grateful that he was fortunate to have had all the various experiences that led up to the taking of the winning photo; opportunities which a lot of people just don’t get. He added, “to be responsible for the Photograph of the Year is a very big deal, and to have won it despite the competition of some truly stunning photographs is an absolute privilege”. This year, we introduced a novel way of choosing the runner-up. All those who were present at the event had the chance to vote for their favourite photo. The Spirit by Christian Ching (11NGh) was voted as the People’s Choice Winner. Both Mihir and Christian walked away with a brand new iPad Air. We would like to congratulate all the winners and thank the judges, sponsors and parents who made the evening such a success. The event was supported by the Student Advancement Board, who were also actively involved in the pre-event publicity and we thank them for their hard work. A very special thank-you to Ms Simone Yeo who kindly set up the entire exhibition – the photos could not have been displayed to better advantage and the ambience on the night was superb.
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Building Blocks for Learning One of the main building projects completed in 2014 was the major extension of the office spaces and library in the Elementary School. The then Acting Principal, Mrs Deidre Hazlewood, worked alongside a small team of dedicated teachers and librarian Ms Siti Nurhidayah to create a space where children could “hide, snuggle and escape into reading”. They were fortunate also to be able to draw on the expertise of School Board member Ms Elaine Ng, CEO of the National Library. It was altogether an inspiring time – and the results show that their vision has been realised. The library is now a most welcoming space that can only be conducive to fostering a love of reading and learning. The library can now host up to three classes consecutively and still boasts its i-Mac suite and impressive book collection. Improvements have included more natural lighting, greater open floor space and a private story-well area for elevated reading, performances and presentations. Why wouldn’t you want to stop off and read awhile? At the same time the ground floor reception area and adjacent offices were renovated and it is now a light-filled area providing office space for Admissions and senior leadership. In the High School, four additional classrooms have recently been added and plans for 2015 include another four classrooms, additional student washrooms, converting two classrooms into science laboratories, an extension to the canteen and additional parking space for cars. We thank all our donors to the Building Fund for enabling the school to provide additional facilities and to upgrade existing ones so that we can maintain an environment that facilitates teaching and learning.
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The gift beyond
a limitless future
Praxis – Much More than Mere Preaching Brian Theng
SJI International Alumnus: Class of 2012 Recipient of a Peter Lim Foundation Scholarship Praxis implies doing – real participation and not mere preaching. It demands meaningful reflection on experience, not blind activity. Praxis is a significant element that lies at the heart of the SJI International ethos. I was, by the generous philanthropy flourishing in the school’s community, fortunate to have had a chance to practise it. Back in 2012, as a Peter Lim Scholar, I had the opportunity to participate in an adventurous journey to Thailand. The task was to climb the country’s second highest mountain, Doi Pha Hom Pok, with a summit 2285m above sea level. The four-day expedition was definitely a highlight of my education, as it combined and took physical endurance and mental stamina to new levels. Past springs, waterfalls, and eventually to the summit spectacle; navigating through unknown land and dense vegetation; crossing streams and negotiating down steep faces, it was a challenge like none I had ever undertaken before. In fact, it was one I could never have done, were it not for my team mates who encouraged me to persevere. Nothing can replace experiences like these: immersion transforms discomfort into determination; tendencies to give up into tenacity. It was doing and not mere talking; it caused reflection, not blind activity. This expedition came about because the scholarship allowance provided a means for my participation; it is a tangible and significant way in which the generosity of donors harmonises with the Lasallian enterprise, giving myriad opportunities to students. Eventually, the adventurous journey formed part of my submission for the National Youth
Achievement Award (Gold), which I received from our President Dr Tony Tan, in late 2014. In turn, that is also a recognition of both the opportunities not otherwise available (were it not for the scholarship), and the fantastic school encouragement and support for such activities. The element of praxis evident in my adventurous journey is just one example of the praxis that existed throughout my time at SJI International. I believe that it has in no small way developed me intellectually, spiritually, and physically. It pushed me to persevere and pray for bigger things – and it bore unexpected fruits. After essays, tests and six interviews split between two simultaneous application processes, I was given the chance to study Classics at Queen’s College, Oxford University through a Jardine Foundation Scholarship, beginning in October 2015. It is a huge grace, one impossible without the Peter Lim Scholarship, which opened the doors to a world of praxis. It is also one which would have been impossible without the tremendous academic and co-curricular environment of SJI International, fostered by all students, staff, and teachers. To the donors and school, I owe many thanks. I look forward to the continued growth in philanthropy in the SJI International community. I believe that it is a cornerstone in developing the Lasallian heritage and in promoting the values of St John Baptist de La Salle in modern Singapore. And to that end, I express the hope that future Scholars endeavour to have the element of praxis in their experiences – through it, many an unexpected dream may come true.
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Our circles o f g r at i t u d e
We honour all our donors, including those who have chosen to give anonymously, who believe in the mission of SJI International and whose philanthropy has enabled the School to continue providing an exceptional education to our students. We would particularly like to recognise our donors in the following circles (cumulative donations received since the School opened).
visionary circle $25,000 and above Khoo Teck Puat Foundation Culindo Livestock Pte Ltd Lippo China Resources Limited Lim Eng Hock The Shaw Foundation Pte Lawrence Henry da Silva Keppel Corporation Limited AX 21 Singapore Pte Ltd KMP Private Ltd Megabuilders & Development Pte Ltd Somsak Leeswadtrakul Lawrence Tham David Loh Kim Kang Dr & Mrs Cheng Li Choon Danny Yong Ming Chong Ezra Holdings Limited UOB Limited Elestial International Ltd Low Check Kian Paramount Asia Tortola / PT Saratoga Investama Sedaya Bangkok Mass Transit System Public Company Limited Goh Yew Lin Kevin and Julia Wong Aelington Pte Ltd Anthony Loh Wing Kiong Far East Management (Private) Limited Mia Hiasinta Hardjasatya Edmund Tie Nyuk Siong Lim Seng Bee Philip Yeo Liat Kok Joseph Teo Pei Sing Lee Foundation Tan Tee How Koh Choon Lan Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) Lim Chee Onn PT Renaissance Capital Asia Tote Board Bubblingwell Intl Ltd / Java Energy Resources Wong Boon Huat Esmond Choo Liong Gee George Yeo Yong Boon Jenny Lee Sin Neo Kwan Yong Construction Pte Ltd Lim Wei Wen Peter Seah Lim Huat Tan Chong Lee Chim Yoon Fah
Jimmy Yim Wing Kuen Derek Loh Eu Tse Simon Cheong Sae Peng Tan Chin Tiong Tan Kwang Hwee Glenndle Sim Soon Ngee James Toh Ban Leng Arief Widyawan Sidarto Chiang Siew Kay Kevin Hangchi Jackie Cheng Ee Lieng Wang Yu Huei Roger Chia Kim Piow Manu Bhaskaran Lim Tai Tian Sim Giok Lak Yong Oi Ling Dennis Tang Chee Heng SymAsia Singapore Fund - Chan Family Foundation Ian Tan Chu En Lionel Yee Woon Chin Asia Grand Restaurant Asia Genesis Asset Management Pte Ltd John Choy Chee Tuck Charles Fan Yue Soon Philip Seah Cheng Chua Tan Cheng Han Andre Yeap Poh Leong Geeson Putra Lawadinata Tsquared Cardiology and Internal Medicine Clinic Pte Ltd Hester Arthur Chew Hai Chiene Tan Guong Ching Leon Yee Kee Shian Chan Wing Cheng Chua Soon Hock Davinder Singh s/o Amar Singh International Testing Co Pte Ltd Lien Vincent Jown Jing Michael Sng Beng Hock Ng Pock Too Paul Tseng Seng Loke Peter Low Kok Chye Soh Kim Hwee Tan Puay Chiang Wong Yoke Meng And 9 Anonymous Donors
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Patron circle $10,000 - $24,999 Trevose International Pte Ltd Ernest Wong Yuen Weng Kwek Leng Peck Ngo Get Ping Adrian Koh Hock Chuan Ross Forde Hamou-Jennings Debotosh Lodh Ewong Pte Ltd Lim Soo Ping Sembcorp Industries Ltd-Sut Tan Chin Seng Yangbum Engineering Pte Ltd Mark Wong Mun Hoong Khattar Wong Hoong Yik Luen Eu Oy Chun Ong Seng Gee Tan Bien Kiat Wee Ee Chao Aramco Aloysius Seow Fook Sen Jude Borromeo Menon KMP Food Industries Pte Ltd Lim Beng Hai Sundaresh Menon The Cardiac Centre Pte Ltd Roy Quek Hong Sheng Christopher Geoffrey Minjoot Kenneth Tan Wee Kheng Annie Hon Sylvia Goh Tshin En Yang Chun Wen Tan Tee Jim Benson Loi Boon Tiong Chung Wei Han Adrian Lee Kah Yee Bryan Lim Jit Ming Edward Ang Boon Cheow Martin Cheah Kok Choon
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Teo Cheng Hiang Alan Cheok Beng Hui Arian Corporation Pte Ltd Bhagwan s/o Ramchand Brendan Leong Hoe Yin Cecil Cheong Christopher B Bogaars Damian Png Jin Chye Daniel Cuthbert Ee Hock Huat Euan Murugasu Francis Lee Francis Nyan Ming Ren Francis Oen Tuck Soon Gerald Tan Tse Yang Goh Boon Leng Johnson Tan Chin Kwang Kalea Smile Spa Pte Ltd Koh Chin Koon Kuo Yew Ting Lau Kok Keng Leo Yip Seng Cheong Loh Kian Ping Mak Keen Tuck Mark Choong Liong On Michael Ang Boo Chye Mock Pak Lum Morris John Noel Hon Chia Chun Peter Chiang Ngee Onn SC Global Developments Ltd Sentosa Golf Club Teresa Lee Woon Oi Tiong Seng Contractors Pte Ltd Wee Ee Cheong Wong Ah Long And 7 Anonymous Donors
president circle $5,000 - $9,999 Wong Kwok Leong N Link (S) Pte Ltd Maria Hilaria Salim Andrew Yeo Khirn Hin Angeline Wee Geok Lian Lim Thiam Seng Mah Kah Loon Narayanan Sreenivasan @ N Sreenivasan Fun Siew Leng Grace Maria Tang Hui Pei Marian Elizabeth Tang Hui Yun Alamsah Suhardi Mariam Anna John Peter Kurt Maier Winston Lim Eng Hoe MCL Land Ltd Ooi Lai Hock Anita Chan Lai Fong David Liew Thye Vui Eric Ou Chuan Whatt Faizal Muhamad Fazluddin Gaffoor Flavia Cheong Mei Yi Gilbert Leong Cheng Loong Hendra Othman Husodo Kong Yew Foo Lee Gek Lang Lien Virginia Yee Wun Steve Cheng Kwee Steven Andrew Neubronner Sunil Kanayalal Bahatia
Suresh Nair Susan Mary De Silva Tan Yoke Yuan Paul Antony Rathband Khoo Bee Keng Centre for Hand and Reconstructive Micro Surgery (Charms) Pte Ltd Christopher Woo Woh Kuan CPG Consultants Pte Ltd Derek Goh Bak Heng Elaine Neo Poh Choo Heng Francis Hang Song James Huang Tet On Jonathan Law Ju Li Koh Teck Chuan Kusumaningtyas Angkawidjaja Leslie Lam Lim Huey Ching Michael Arthur Roche Mohan Reviendran Pillay Patricia Lim Swee Lin Pauline Tan Siew Tiang Puvanambigai Ponnampalam Mandalanayagam Richard Seow Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd Tjoa Hui Ling Wong Toon Jin Yap Chee Meng Yeong Pui Cheng And 4 Anonymous Donors
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Principal circle $2,008 - $4,999 Arie Darma Enterprises (S) Pte Ltd Design Studio Furniture Manufacturer Ltd Felix Oen Beng Seng Gilbert Ee Guan Hui Khoo Ken Hee Mark Wee Keng Hong / Gracie Sim Poh Gek Mitsubishi Electric Asia Pte Ltd Carrie Tan Su Shan Chee Cynthia Chuen Mei William Peter Jaensch Bernard Oh Charles Yong Chern Chyi Ching Gan Cha Ying Herry Andriejanssen Joseph Victor Lye Thiam Fatt Koh Soo How Olivia Beatrice Cashin Seow Poon Garn Wan Heng Chiang Eugene APD Singapore Pte Ltd Pratheepan Karunagaran David Fung Yin Kee Foo Fatt Kah Bradley Andrew Roberts Angela Tan Guat Hoon C Jackson Yap Carolyn Tan Ghim Lee Chew Leng Hock Christopher Murugasu Craig Robert Martin
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Fong Cheng Han George Neo Eng Huat Goh Chi Lan Jessie Tan Kuah Boon Theng Lawrence Low Fay Huen Lily Teo Ah Kim Loh Kee Kong Raymond Chan Teck Yam Shunmugavel Jayaveerapandian Strontium Technology Pte Ltd Tan Yong Nang Teo Zee Vee Woon Chin Thung Chee Mei Lin Susi Teo Tan Jee Lim Hwang Wen Shang Vincent Anandraj Koh Hui Hwa Michael Lau Wai Shing Nicholas John Brinton Yeo Buan Lee Yun Ta Chun Nicholas Lee Teck Chye Loo Leong Hoon Thomas Michael Gerard McNerney Edwin Tan Eng Hoe Michael Paul Phelps And 5 Anonymous Donors
2007 Founding society $1,000 - $2,007 ACAL Holdings Pte Ltd Accenture Pte Ltd Asian Marine Syndicate 1965 Pte Ltd ATA Architects Pte Ltd Benny Chan Yui Fan Bryan Yap Jin Meng Chew Chin Chok See Liang Chong Yee Leong Cooper Gay (Asia) Pte Ltd David Michael Wong Wai Choy Erika Soo Yook Yin Financial Services Managers Association (FSMA) Jarsonn Seng Chua Chuan Jayesh Manohar Kamath Liberty Insurance Pte Ltd Lum Hong Yuan Lydia Lum Soon Neo McLarens Singapore Pte Ltd Ong Teck Hui Phillip Tseng Seng Sou PNG Urology Raymond Clotaire Delangle Safe2Travel Pte Ltd See Tho Clinic PL Shabana Abedeen Tyebally Siew Hean Meng Sky Alantic Private Limited Tan Zing Yuen Teh Ban Seng Wan Chee Meng Wong Ee Eu Melinda Tong Mui Leng Pauline Mary Bull Chang Chien Shoong Yency Tan Tan Ju Kuang Eric Andrew Finkelstein Ivan Chin Dipak Gobindram Vaswani Jessie Tan Soh Hoon @ Nur Yasmin Lim Kim Hai Lum Yin Tuck Sara and David Singh Price Edward Canizares Yap Raymond Goh Wee Hock Richard Stuart Warburton Shinmi Takayuki
Simon Perkins Surandren Nair S Tan Gee Boon Tan Ju Li Vivian Singh Mr and Mrs U Kean Seng Roger Emanuel Karlsson Albert Ee Oon Sun Ignatius Liow Yang Ming Lawrence Chan Ming Yu Tony Fong Vincent Lee Tuan Aun Philip Tan Bee Lee Benjamin John Strickland Jerome Wong Tannaz Manek Daver Andre Roy Anthony Michael Rodrigues Anton Lee Wei Min Asad Jumabhoy Awyong Poh Puay Benjamin Tan Thong Kwan Catherine Wong Phoy Choo Chang Yew Kong Chia Kin Hon Danny Oh Beng Teck David Chua Thai Chong DBS Bank Ltd Derrick Chee Jin Hoe Donny Yusgiantoro Doreen Hwang Siok Lean Eddy Chong Kwong Mei Felix Kwan Hsu Choi Gerard Chee Hsien Giacomo Galtarossa Graham Yates Hatim Capital Pte Ltd Ho Chee Lick James Tan Siah Heng Joanne Lim Pick Lui John Stephen Fahy Joshua Tay Teck Seng Kenneth Leopold Fong Kenny Rebeira Kevin Quek Chin Chin Kevin Sim Kwang Yang Kum Nai Pew Kwan Seik Cheong Laurent Marie Olivier Mirepoix
Lawrence Chee Fon Leung Lee Wai Ling Lena Soh Leong Yoke Kuen Lim Beng Chian Lim Chee Meng Lim Wee Chiong Lim Yuin Pin LL Cheong Skin & Laser Clinic Pte Ltd Lok Ying Fang Lubna Alsagoff Mahesh Pranlal Rupawalla Margie Lim May Xia Matthew Sim Kwang Tai Michael Shing Yue Wa Michelle Hui Yin Teng Ng Thiam Poh Ng Tiong Beng Ong Guan Hin Paul Ong Jau Lueng Pearl Lee Tuan Kee Pheabe Chau Mei Sze Pinny Lukito Ramesh Pritamdas Chandiramani Richard Fam Shou Kwong Robert Edward Bier Rosalind Cheng Seow Peng Rowena Yeo Hui Hoon SD Network Pte Ltd Seetha Sharma Shah Gopul Navnitlal Steve Cvetko Steven Tiong Choon Hieng Suhadi Zaini Sulian Claire Tan-Wijaya Tan Teck Yong Tay Teck Shong Terence Teo Keng Yu Tham Sai Choy The Good Earth Nail Bar Tjioe Ka Lie Vinod Miktinath Singh Viyuda Chokechalermwat William Toh Thiam Siew Winnie Goh Woei Jiing Wong Kien Mun Wong Leng And 16 Anonymous Donors 41
friends circle $500 - $999 Angus Archibald Kidd Hari Sundar s/o Hundomal Irene Oen Geok Leng Lena Lee Su Hui Norhana Meacham Richard Moratto Renato Rainone Pao Ning Yu Siew Weng Hin Dona Tella Liu See Fung Benjamina Charano Bernard Tan Kok Kiang Chen May-Lin Chng Lay Chew Chua Chin Teng Colin Michael Pereira Dennis Ng Kok Kee Eddie Chau Shing Chi Eu Oy Chu George Joseph Palathinkal Harmohan Singh Huang Shoou Chyuan James Lee Chong Hwa Judy Ang Pei Xian Kevin Leong Yu Vee Koon Guat Ngor Lee Howe Yong Lee Kong Eng 42
Lee Lam See Leung Kam Lun Lynette Seah Li-Chen Marcus Chew Siong Huat Marie Alina Yeo Maureen Ding Chooi Eng Mohamad Kamal Bin Abdullah Nutan Balwantram Singapuri Ong Seow Hwee Raymond Lee Poh Kong Rita Bay Robert Teguh Subrata Lie Seng Choon Hock Sim Boon Yang Sim-Chang Kim Yin Tagami Takashi Tan Choon Lim Tan Siew Hoon Uantchern Loh Vincent Gabriel Jeffrey Winnie Lee Wiradharma Pranadi Wong Chiew Leong Yong Wei Leong Yu Joo Aik And 6 Anonymous Donors
About us
The Advancement and Communications Office Reporting directly to the Office of the CEO, the Advancement and Communications Office (ACO) oversees the school’s communications, alumni relations and fundraising needs through the nurturing and development of human and financial resources. The Office opened in 2011 as the Development and Communications Office, and in July 2014 was renamed the Advancement and Communications Office to better reflect the whole school’s efforts in advancing the Institution’s mission. The Advancement function spans across donor and alumni relations, major gifts, volunteer management, strategic fundraising, and the planning for our building and capital campaigns. From its founding in 2007, SJI International has benefited from the guidance and generosity of SJI Old Boys, parents (both of current students and alumni), alumni and other supporters. That critical support continues today and is important to our outstanding success and mission. SJI International is a not-for-profit, private institution with registered charity status. As the school does not receive any government funding it must sustain itself through a whole school effort. The ACO is the main office responsible for coordinating funding appeals and fundraising events for the school’s Scholarship & Bursary Fund. It also seeks gift donations for the Building & Development Fund, which benefits students of both the Elementary and High School. The Office organises an annual Photography Competition and Auction, Industry Dialogues, Alumni Summer Reunion and other events such as the Scholarship Awards Ceremony. In addition, the ACO organised a very successful Charity Golf match in 2013 and is looking forward to holding its inaugural Gala Dinner, SINGALA, in support of the Scholarship Fund in June 2015. The ACO is also supported by the Student Advancement Board (SAB), which aims to make the whole school – Elementary School and High School – a more conducive and ebullient environment for the entire student community. The SAB has been actively involved in the organisation of promotional and advancement activities in and around school since 2011 – from fundraising events to alumni reunions. For enquiries on how to give to the Scholarship Fund please contact us at: Advancement and Communications Office Advancement.office@sji-international.com.sg
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Thank You “I give as it gives me great pleasure. I give to show my children that I am dedicated to them and to their schooling life. I give to set a good example for my children that giving of time and energy to help others is so rewarding in so many ways. I give because I can, and I appreciate the fact that I have the time and capability to do so.” - Jill Murphy, Parent
© May 2015 St Joseph’s Institution International Advancement and Communications Office
Advancement and Communications Office St Joseph’s Institution International 490 Thomson Road | Singapore 298191 Tel (65) 6353 9383 | Fax (65) 6354 3103 www.sji-international.com.sg Enter to Learn, Leave to Serve Elementary School | Prep 1 – Grade 6 International Primary Curriculum | CPE Reg No. 201009321K High School | Grade 7 – 10 IGCSE | Grade 11 - 12 International Baccalaureate | Co Reg & GST No. 200607833C
A School of the De La Salle Brothers