Spirit St. Margaret ’s School
Sustaining our future
winter 2019
ST. MARGARET’S ANNUAL FUND
SUPPORT THE LEADERS OF TOMORROW Join me in helping our girls reach their full potential. Your gift – of any amount – is needed. Together, we are building a community of support to nurture the leaders of tomorrow.
Photo courtesy of: Daniel Jones
“ Back in the 1980s, there were biases around what women could hope to achieve and I believed it would have changed by now – but there are still very few women in tech and I am often the only woman at the table. That is why it is so important that SMS continues to support girls and help them to succeed.” LYNDA BROWN-GANZERT (SMS ’85) Founder & CEO, Curatio.me Connector, entrepreneur, mhealth innovator – award winning digital media leader recognized as an international expert
For more information on the St. Margaret’s Annual Fund or to make a tax-deductible donation, please contact: Janine Cowie, Alumnae Relations and Annual Fund Manager 250-479-7171 ext. 2172 I jcowie@stmarg.ca
Give online at: www.stmarg.ca/excellencefund/ St. Margaret’s School is a registered non-profit society. Charitable registration number: #10802 8614 RR 0001
St. Margaret’s School Confident girls. Inspiring women.
INDEPENDENT GIRLS’ SCHOOL FOUNDED IN 1908 • JK TO GRADE 12 • DAY AND BOARDING • VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA SMS Spirit | 2
Welcome
Having been here for just a week, I am already thoroughly impressed by the St. Margaret’s community. The campus is warm and welcoming – just as its inhabitants are!
As an interlude between Cathy Thornicroft and Sharon Klein, my role is not to create huge change, but rather to provide a stable transition. And, drawing on long experience as a head of various Canadian independent schools, I hope to make some suggestions that will prove useful to the school going forward. Cathy set a high standard in everything she did, not least in the blogs she wrote from time to time for the community. I will endeavor to carry on in the same fashion, and to share thoughts about my experience here as I become more familiar with the school. I greatly look forward to my time here – brief as it is – and am very happy to have the opportunity to get to know St. Margaret’s School more closely. I have lived on Vancouver Island since 1990, and have been associated with various independent schools here in that time, but it is only in the last several months that I have begun to appreciate what a hidden gem SMS is. It is my hope that I can share that knowledge with many others in the next few months. I look forward also to meeting many of you in the weeks to come, and learning why St. Margaret’s has a special place in your hearts.
Simon Bruce-Lockhart
new Head of School Ms. Sharon Klein The Board of Governors of SMS is delighted to announce the appointment of Ms. Sharon Klein as new Head of School, effective August 2019. For the last five years, Ms. Klein has been the highly successful Head of School at St. George’s School in Montreal, Quebec. St. George's is a leading progressive, co-educational school for Kindergarten to Grade 11, with more than 450 students. Prior to becoming Head of School, Ms. Klein was Deputy Head of Queen Margaret’s School in Duncan, BC for nine years. She has worked in both public and independent schools and holds the degrees of Bachelor of Education from the University of Regina and Master of Arts- Educational Leadership from San Diego State University. SMS Spirit | 3
Girls’ STEM Leadership Conference 2019 April 25-26 According to Statistics Canada, in 2016 more women graduated with degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) than ever before. However, university-educated women are still less likely to choose a STEM major over other fields such as social science or business. Just 20% of women who attended a postsecondary program opted for a STEM degree, whereas over 40% of post-secondary men chose STEM. The explanation for the gender gap in STEM can perhaps be captured in a single word: identity. Boys are taught from a young age to value these pursuits, while girls are steered in other directions. At SMS, Canada’s first all-girls STEM school, girls are given every opportunity to thrive. The Girls’ STEM Leadership Conference is but one example. For the second time in our school’s history, SMS will host 400 female and female-identified students in Grades 7 to 10 from both public and independent schools from Greater Victoria and the Lower Mainland. The theme for 2019 is Sustaining Our Future, which will build on the successful 2017 Girls' STEM Leadership Conference. The two-day event will aim to inspire young leaders by sharing stories of integrity, environmental stewardship, and green innovation through speakers, presentations, workshops, and exhibitions. This year’s keynote speaker is Dr. Sarika Cullis-Suzuki. Sarika is interested in the ocean and fish, and the conservation of biodiversity. She has been a board member of the David Suzuki Foundation since 2011, and a board member of the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea since 2016. Her research in marine biology has taken her to many parts of the ocean, from the high seas to remote tropical islands, to the coastal intertidal zones of her home, British Columbia. Her PhD investigated the effects of boat noise on a singing fish in the Pacific Northwest, while her MSc focused on overfishing in the high seas, the results of which she presented to the United Nations. Sarika is the daughter of writer and activist Tara Cullis and famed Canadian environmentalist David Suzuki. She was named one of Canada’s Top 30 Under 30 by Explore magazine, and an “influential Canadian millennial” by Huffington Post Canada. “I’m really excited to have Sarika as our keynote this year. I think she is the perfect fit for this conference and our theme, and she is a
Dr. Sarika Cullis-Suzuki.
relatable public figure who I believe will resonate with the students,” said Lauren Hudson, the conference coordinator. “I want students to come to the conference to be inspired as well as encouraged and supported to take action on issues that matter to them. The conference theme is all about environmental sustainability and inspiring young leaders,” she said. One of the key components of the conference is student networking. It’s not often that 400 girls who share a similar drive and passion for STEM come together and are given the opportunity to collaborate, discuss, and forge relationships. “Children do not have a choice about the state of the natural world that they’ve inherited. But everyone has a choice about how they decide to live in this world and the impact they have on both the natural world and other humans. Through the conference experience, students will be educated about current issues and invited to seek solutions. We hope it inspires them to enjoy STEM and consider STEM professions, which are increasingly prevalent in the modern economy,” said Lauren. The conference will kick off at 6:00 p.m., Thursday, April 25, with a student led trashion show featuring designs created from upcycled and reclaimed material. The keynote presentation and all presenter led sessions will be held on Friday, April 26. For more information contact: Lauren Hudson, Conference Coordinator lhudson@stmarg.ca | 250-479-7171
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Presenters to watch for: Adam Olsen, Member of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia for the Green Party, Saanich North Anastasia Castro, Gr. 11 student and co-recipient of the Saanich Council Youth Environmental award
Sarah Shephard, Mechanical Jennifer Jackson, Physical Engineer focussing on energy Oceanography Research Scientist efficiency, sustainability and energy with the Hakai Institute modelling with Focal Engineering Laura Grondahl, Softward Shirley Ho, Senior Designer at Developer with LlamaZOO Microsoft interactive Monika Pelz, Learning and Lauren Eckert, Conservation Engagement Coordinator with Ocean Scientist in Graduate studies at Networks Canada the University of Victoria logo designed by Grade 8 student, Sherry Fang
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Trashion
This student-led charitable event aims to raise awareness about the importance of unsustainable fashion and material waste, kicking off the STEM conference theme, Sustaining Our Future, with a bang.
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The SMS trashion team has spent over a year planning what is set to be a highlight of the 2019 STEM Leadership Conference— talented students showcasing their artistic prowess through a gallery-style fashion show featuring designs made from upcycled and unwanted materials. This student-led charitable event aims to raise awareness about the importance of unsustainable fashion and material waste, kicking off the conference theme, Sustaining Our Future, with a bang. Trashion (a portmanteau of “trash” and “fashion”) is a term used to describe fashion made from thrown-out, found, and repurposed elements. It puts a name to a philosophy and an ethic encompassing environmentalism and innovation that is realized by using recycled materials and upcycling trash to generate items with renewed value. The team is led by Grade 12 student Corey Sham, who was inspired by the concept after participating in a trashion show at her former school in Hong Kong. With the focus of the STEM Leadership Conference being environmental sustainability, a trashion event was a perfect fit. “The goal is, as a team, to make a positive impact on the community. It’s a charitable event with proceeds from admission donations going toward the WE Organization to help support programs that create a sustainable impact,” said Corey.
As students start working on their projects, the team is encouraging designers to focus on body positivity and creating fashion and designs for people of all different shapes and sizes. “I felt the trashion project was a perfect fit for my art program in many ways. Since the introduction of a disposal society that started with plastics in the late 60s, we have become wasteful and unimaginative in how we manage our resources. On this virtually shrinking planet, our youth are aware that we need new ways of thinking about waste and that this is addressed in how we design,” said Louise Huneck, SY Art teacher. “I am thrilled about how engaged the students are in the process. Lydia Li, in Grade 11, has already constructed four beautiful evening dresses from plastic or paper, and Grade 10 students Ally Roberts, Bella Anderson, and Ana Bird are well on their way to repurposing old clothing. It’s exciting for me to see Corey’s initiative and vision take shape,” she continued. The event isn’t stirring up interest just within the walls of SMS. The Bay Centre in downtown Victoria has also decided to get involved, offering to showcase a selection of the best designs to the public once the event wraps up.
The team has also been working closely with the Outreach Club who are coordinating the fundraising portion of the Trashion Show. Entry to the event, which kicks off at 6:00 p.m. on April 25, 2019, will be open to all STEM Leadership Conference attendees as well as the “A personal goal of mine is to provide a platform for students to have public, with admission by donation. the freedom to express their ideas in a unique and challenging way, and to ensure that everyone is happy with the work they are doing,” Special thanks to Jim Phillips, the owner and president of local business Matthews Store Fixtures and Shelving, who kindly loaned she said. the students over 40 mannequins to display their trashion creations.
Trashion team: L-R back:
Corey Sham, Maya Tabata, Katrina Ngan, Cloria Yang Middle:
Lydia Li L-R front:
Yuki Yang, Ariana Deweaver, Inez Khouider, Olivia Bao
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leaders
110th anniversary tea
emerge
On November 4, St. Margaret’s School partnered with the Fairmont Empress Hotel to host the shared 110th anniversary of the two historic institutions with a tea in the elegant Crystal Ballroom. Aside from the stunning venue, what stood out most was a feeling that the next generation of empowered female change makers was among us. That’s a feeling that St. Margaret’s tries to instill in its students from the moment they step onto campus with the school’s vision: Confident girls. Inspiring women. Keynote speaker Sally Armstrong, award-winning journalist, author, and human rights activist, addressed the current political climate in the women’s movement and delivered a speech so inspirational it garnered a standing ovation. “There has never been a time in history where girls were this powerful or this influential. We are at a turning point,” she said. Sally, who is known as “the war correspondent for the world’s women,” spoke to a room full of SMS alumnae, students, emerging leaders, and community members about the importance of personal will, and what that looks like.
the process, and I think those people are the girls of St. Margaret’s School. You’ve got this, and those of us that went before, we’ve got your back, so you go get it.” Following Sally’s presentation, SMS introduced its inaugural Emerging Leaders Award, presenting it to four alumnae who are the epitome of change makers: actress Katherine Evans, scientist and engineer Jean Hsu, mechanical engineer Kate Strachan, and government relations worker Karina Sihota.
“Today’s change makers are exercising personal will—a new type of leadership, speaking truth to power and standing up to inequality and injustice,” said Sally. “It’s been said that moral courage is a rarer commodity than bravery in battle or even great intelligence. But I can tell you that it is the one essential quality for those who seek to change the world. Change doesn’t happen because we want it to happen, or because it’s fair for a just society; change happens because people get involved in
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meet the emerging leaders Katherine Evans, SMS Class of 2015
Kate Strachan, SMS Class of 1995
Katherine was born in Victoria and fell in love with performing at a young age, singing and acting out songs at voice recitals, and taking dance classes. At the age of 10, she discovered musical theatre and obtained her first role with a professional musical theatre company. At 13, she began to audition for and book student and independent film roles in Vancouver. At 14, she began to win roles in professional film and television productions.
Kate has worked at Lafarge Canada, the country’s largest cement plant, for 18 years. This past September, she was appointed Exshaw plant manager, in Alberta, making her the first female plant manager at Lafarge.
Katherine received awards recognition for both of her first two television appearances: in AMC/Netflix’s The Killing, and in BBC America’s Intruders in 2014. Her most recent project is the 2018 feature film Richard Says Good-bye, starring Johnny Depp.
Leading up to her promotion, she was production manager at Exshaw, helping to oversee the plant’s $600 million expansion, and before that she was production manager at LaFarge’s Sugar Creek plant in Missouri. She began her career in the mechanical engineering department at Lafarge’s Richmond plant in Canada. After her time at SMS, Kate studied mechanical engineering at the University of Victoria, earning her degree in 2000.
“Being a student at SMS meant that I had teachers who supported me and trusted me enough to enable me to start my career in Vancouver while still in high school in Victoria.” Karina Sihota, SMS Class of 2004 After completing an honour’s degree in International Development and Political Science at McGill in 2009, Karina worked abroad in India and Brazil for two years on projects supported by CIDA and UN-Habitat. In 2011, Karina joined the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC), the organization representing 3.3 million unionized workers in Canada. She held the position of National Young Workers' Representative for one year before joining the Political Action Department. There, she led a program aimed at building relationships between local unions and municipal government, and worked to support the CLC’s federal legislative efforts. More recently, Karina has worked in the Women and Human Rights Department, focusing on issues of gender equality, discrimination, and injustice in the workplace. Karina has now left her job to start the master’s program in International Affairs at Carleton University on a full scholarship. When asked what advice she would give to SMS students, Karina said: “Have values, always look for strengths in people who are different than you, always take time to learn more than just academics, and take every opportunity to evaluate yourself, learn, and grow.”
“An all-girls environment is an experience few can relate to, and it’s something I cherish. The friends I made and the experiences we shared together through resident and day student life were unique. As a class we were challenged, empowered, focused, confident in our endeavours, and creative. We pushed each other to succeed. I take great pride in being just one of a graduating class of 24 confident and accomplished women.” Jean Hsu, SMS Class of 2001 Since Jean graduated from SMS, she has earned three degrees at the University of Toronto: a Bachelor of Applied Science in Materials Science and Engineering, a Master of Applied Science in Materials Science and Engineering, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Materials Science and Engineering. In case you are wondering what materials engineers do, they focus on improving what things are made of and how they are made. New materials enable better performance and sustainable technologies. During her time at the University of Toronto, Jean received several honours and awards, including the US Steel Scholarship and the University of Toronto Open Fellowship Award. She is now employed as a scientist/engineer at Kinectrics, a global leader in life cycle management solutions for the electricity industry. “SMS provided me with a genuine curiosity for science and math. Having the opportunities provided in the school as well as the support of all the teachers gave me the confidence to pursue a career in engineering. “
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Ralph Waldo Emerson’s oft-quoted adage, “Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail” is particularly appropriate when facing challenges in the great outdoors. Emerson’s quote captures perfectly what Outweek at SMS represents: for 25 years, we have been taking girls into the wilderness at Strathcona Park to carve new paths and not just follow in the footsteps of others. At St. Margaret’s School our intention is to stoke the fire of curiosity, wonder, love of learning, and instill confidence in girls to set their own course and shape their own dreams. We believe that the path to education is fostered best by a community of people who encourage exploration, not just explanation; who take interest in students, not just content; and who know from experience that learning is a dynamic mix of discovery, engagement, challenge, difficulty, reflection, and action. Outweek provides all of that, and more.
outweek 2018
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Sustaining our future
When Early Childhood Educator Erin McCulloch started the Little Chefs Cooking Program back in 2014, she also potted vegetables in the ECE playground in hopes of using fresh food in her lessons. When the plants failed to thrive, she was ready to throw in the ‘trowel’, but then something changed. The garden suddenly flourished! It was almost as if a garden fairy had sprinkled magic dust on the plants.
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When Early Childhood Educator Erin McCulloch started the Little Chefs Cooking Program back in 2014, she also potted vegetables in the ECE playground in hopes of using fresh food in her lessons. When the plants failed to thrive, she was ready to throw in the ‘trowel’, but then something changed. The garden suddenly flourished! It was almost as if a garden fairy had sprinkled magic dust on the plants. It turns out that the garden fairy was none other than SMS groundskeeper Frances Dowling who had come to work at the school from Butchart Gardens. It was that moment when a relationship was forged, and Frances soon became an amazing resource for the ECE program and the school at large. Today, Frances is a fixture on campus, heading up the Green Club with fellow groundskeeper Cory Steadman. The club looks at sustainability on campus and takes care of composting, the greenhouse, and watering and harvesting salad greens for meals in Alexis Hall. Most recently the club has decided to learn about local bees, supported by a grant received from the Lieutenant Governor’s Stewards of the Future initiative. Stewards of the Future encourages young people to connect with the land and understand the precious resources right under their feet, thus inspiring the next generation of youth who will be our future leaders. “Our students have the unique opportunity to learn from Frances, our master gardener, about sustainability, our natural environment, and how to care for our earth. Frances has worked with students across all ages in the school. She has built boxes for the greenhouse with students, and then worked with them to plant vegetables that have made it into our meals in Alexis Hall,” said Mary Lue Emmerson, Foundation Years Principal.
project will include an experienced STEM educator mentoring a new STEM educator, with the addition of integrating a content specialist, in this case Frances. Together they will combine forces to teach gardening, sustainability, and STEM. “What’s unique here is that we are creating the curriculum ourselves that is hands-on, creative, age-appropriate, and fun. There is no book on this, no instructions, or lesson plans. We’ve had to create it, and we are truly pioneering this field,” said Susan Middlemiss, Early Childhood Educator. “I think this program defines who we are as a school: we should have an outdoor garden, and we should be teaching sustainability and incorporating STEM concepts into our teaching. It’s been really exciting having Frances a part of this,” said Susan.
The STEM in the Garden project, which is being led by Early Childhood Educator Mariko Kado, will serve as a case study for research being done by Todd Milford, Associate Professor with the University of Victoria in the Faculty of Education, and Christine Tippett, Associate Professor at the University of Ottawa. Their “She is currently helping the JK students on a special project called study, entitled “What Does a STEM Curriculum Look Like at the STEM in the Garden. She worked with them to plant an edible flower Pre-K level?” will not only help educators across North America, and herb garden and then introduced the students to various herbs but solidify SMS as a true leader in this field. and plants while exploring their five senses. She also works closely “SMS is one of the first places to state that they are fully behind with the JK educators to develop age-appropriate STEM curriculum the integration of STEM into this level. There are a few places using our garden as the provocation for inquiry and learning. around the world that are playing with some of Her gentle manner, work ethic, and expertise are a gift we are so these ideas, but in Canada SMS is leading the way,” fortunate to have at SMS,” continued Mary Lue. said Professor Milford. STEM in the Garden is once again building on the cutting-edge For Frances, it’s just another day doing what curriculum within the ECE program that has pioneered STEM she loves. education at the pre-Kindergarten level. The next phase of this “I started gardening as a very young child. I’ve always loved being outside and had an avid interest in growing plants, especially having a vegetable garden,” said Frances. “I love being able to share my knowledge about gardening and plants with the students. They always seem so excited to go outside, get their hands dirty, and help grow something. I love being able to connect their classroom learning with the outdoors and challenge them to try something different and learn new skills,” she said.
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Lindsay Jennerich
Patricia Obee
Empowering the next generation to reach their full potential with confidence, while providing tangible support and purpose to Canadian Olympians through their transition to life after sport— that’s the mission of the Head to Head program, a mission that aligns so closely with St. Margaret’s School that it seems like a match made in heaven.
The program offers a unique opportunity to provide the girls with elite access to knowledge. The students are exposed to lessons about perseverance and determination that they normally would only read about in a book. Instead, they get to interact, ask questions, and learn from two real-life Olympic athletes and medalists.
The Head to Head program was founded by two-time Olympian and 2016 Canadian Olympic swim team captain, Martha McCabe. The program pairs one or two Olympians with schools or sports clubs across Canada for a year-long mentorship, which includes up to 15 in-person visits from the mentors, personalized educational videos, and email access to the Olympians for the students.
“I think it is important for our girls to connect with athletes who have demonstrated many of the values we espouse at SMS. Excellence is more about the journey and less about the outcome. Having our girls hear these athletes’ stories of persistence, goal setting, and the importance of practice in building one’s confidence and competence is invaluable,” said Cathy Thornicroft, recently retired Head of School.
“After becoming an Olympian in 2012, I quickly realized the power my voice had on youth around me. Seeing the impact I could have on another person's life was incredibly inspiring. I became determined to reach as many young Canadians as I could and soon learned that many Olympians were just as motivated as I was to connect and inspire the next generation,” said Martha. SMS has been paired with mentors Lindsay Jennerich and Patricia Obee, who together won the silver medal in the women’s lightweight rowing doubles at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. The two Olympians have been working with groups of Middle and Senior Year students since September covering various topics, including: • Goal setting • Managing nerves • Healthy habits: nutrition, sleep • Mindfulness • Time management (balancing academic, athletic, and social commitments) • Resilience • Accountability • Team culture • Active recovery: stretching, massage, foam rolling, etc. • Performance: strategy, pressure, performing in the moment, ideal performance state
“My experience with Head to Head has been really positive so far. It's a very open environment and has really helped me to think more deeply. Listening to Lindsay’s advice has definitely helped me to make decisions that have benefit my personal wellbeing and made me a happier person,” said Grade 12 student, Sophie Beauchesne. Olympian Profiles Lindsay Jennerich Rio 2016 Olympic Silver Medallist Women’s Lightweight Rowing Doubles Three-time Olympian (2008, 2012, 2016) 2010 World Champion Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, UVic Coordinator, Athlete Coach Services -Canadian Sport Institute
Patricia Obee Rio 2016 Olympic Silver Medallist Women’s Lightweight Rowing Doubles Two-time Olympian (2012, 2016) Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology, University of Washington Master of Child and Youth Care Counselling, University of Victoria
Did you know? SMS Alumna 2007 Gillian Carleton, road and track cyclist, won the bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics in the women's team pursuit. She also finished second in the team pursuit at the Track Cycling World Cup in London in February 2012.
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Strong Partnerships = Strong Girls Victoria is a centre of excellence for elite athletes in various sports and is home to the Pacific Institute for Sport Excellence (PISE), a non-profit organization that supports health and wellness through programs, education, and services. Recently, St. Margaret’s and the institute formed a unique partnership to satisfy the appetite for access to elite training at the school; the result is the SMS Performance Program. Open to girls ages 12 to 17, the program was created by PISE for St. Margaret’s student-athletes to improve sport performance through implementing training protocols designed to improve strength and power, increase mobility, and decrease the risk of acute and chronic injury. “With the successful run of the first program in the fall, our athletes have experienced the benefit of working closely with PISE strength and conditioning coach, Mary Claire (‘MC’) Geneau. A former varsity hockey player at the University of Toronto, MC is pursuing a PhD at the University of Victoria in exercise science while also coaching the Camosun Chargers Men’s Volleyball team. Her knowledge of elite athletics, sport physiology, and the challenges that females face in sport has been a great fit for our athletes,” said Emma Glasgow, Athletics Coordinator. A group of dedicated aspiring student-athletes attended eight weekly sessions to learn about what it takes to train at the highest level. Not only were they given the physical tools to become more dynamic athletes, but they also were provided with the mental and emotional tools as well. “It’s been a pleasure working with the students at St. Margaret’s. Not only are they talented and hardworking athletes, but they are also very passionate and bright young women,” said MC, head coach of the program.
“Despite the age gap in some of the sessions, these students work very well together and provide encouragement to one another, which is what I normally expect from college and adult athletes. The girls demonstrate a maturity and engagement beyond their years. It is encouraging to see a group of young athletes respond so well to instruction, coaching, and constructive feedback. I saw their weekly improvement and their general athletic ability flourish,” she continued.
Grade 10 student Lily Mannall-Fretwell, whose primary sport is soccer, attended weekly sessions hoping to improve her strength and be able to compete at the next level. “I was excited about this opportunity; my goal is to become a more well-rounded athlete. Soccer is my main sport, and we focus mainly on technical skills, rather than strength training. I wanted to do strength training to become a better overall athlete.” Lily, who hopes to compete for Team BC, said that she has already noticed a difference when training with her peers. “We focus on a lot of different things like plyometrics, mobility, power, recovery, and proper technique. I think it’s an advantage for me, and I notice that I’m just more comfortable and confident with the movements than some of my teammates are.” St. Margaret’s believes in providing opportunities for students to thrive and is always looking for ways to develop new programs, create exclusive partnerships, and provide elite access that gives value to the community while strengthening the core values of the students. The SMS Performance Program will run again from January to March 2019 with space for even more girls to get involved.
Lily Mannall-Fretwell
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Club profile
model un
Four years ago, the Model United Nations (MUN) program at SMS had just six members. Today, it’s the second-largest club on campus with 43 students committed to pursuing academic excellence and wearing the red blazer with pride at major conferences province-wide. MUN strives to strengthen students’ research, debate, and consensus-building skills. It also fosters international understanding and a greater comprehension of the complex forces that drive decision making on global issues. Kathy Da Silva, Academic Advisor and club sponsor, described the program: “MUN is an academic simulation of the United Nations. Students are assigned to represent a nation in engaging debates regarding the pressing moral issues that the global community faces. The different divisions in MUN cover a diverse range of topics including global health, environment, security, finance, economics, human rights, and development.
In October 2018, the team took part in ShawMUN at Shawnigan Lake School, a conference of 450 students. The team had a fantastic first showing of the year with two students taking home recognition. Ines Khouider, Grade 10 student and MUN veteran, represented the delegation of China and took home the award for Best Delegate in the Affordable and Clean Energy Committee. MUN newcomer, Grade 9 student Sakura Hu, representing the delegation of the United Kingdom, received the Honourable Mention award in the Decent Work and Economic Growth Committee. Next: the team will head to the Vancouver Model UN in January, a three-day conference with 1,450 students from across the globe, North America’s largest MUN conference.
“Over the past few years, our St. Margaret’s Model UN team has really flourished. They have fearlessly committed themselves to putting in the work preparing for action-packed, fast-paced weekendlong conferences— sometimes up to 18 hours a day in sessions, “Students become familiar with the UN procedures as well as the researching world events, writing papers, refining their debating variety of global events. In addition, MUN teaches delegates the and public speaking skills, thinking quickly on their feet and reacting importance of negotiations and listening to others as they work with to dynamic arguments presented by fellow Model UN participants other nations in hopes of producing a comprehensive resolution to from around the world,” said Ms. Da Silva. address the topic of debate.” “The girls who participate become more able to think critically, These experiences require diligent research and preparation, an collaborate with others, propose constructive resolutions, and appreciation of different perspectives, strong public speaking develop diplomatic skills that are more important than ever in skills, and strong competence in negotiation. Both challenging and today’s world.” exciting, this program supports our vision to create confident girls. “MUN has really allowed me to gain confidence in my public speaking abilities through fast-paced debate and intense negotiation between delegates. One of my most memorable experiences was when I had the privilege of being a part of ShawMUN's House of Commons committee, where I had the opportunity to debate on the floor of the BC Legislature. It was such a surreal experience because it didn’t feel like a simulation; it felt like I was actually part of a political party, negotiating with the opposition on a substantial bill,” said Grade 12 student, Katrina Ngan.
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Parent Lecture Series After 110 years, providing service remains one of the core values of St. Margaret’s School, and is just one of the many reasons why the Parent Lecture Series has become a signature offering in our quest to enrich partnerships within the community. The Parent Lecture Series provides opportunities for parents and educators to learn from experts in a variety of fields, to share ideas with others, and to enhance our local communities. The series features dynamic speakers who are nationally recognized for their expertise in specific areas of parenting, education, and/or health. Each year, we strive to present a balanced series that addresses a wide array of issues confronting parents and educators. This year, the series explores the 7-Point Parental Compass offered by Dr. Jillian Roberts. The Parental Compass has two key goals: 1. Strengthen the parent-child bond. 2. Support families in becoming effective problem solvers. Each of the seven points stands on its own as a best parenting practice. However, each also works collectively with the others to provide a framework that will help your child make it through any challenge she may face in life. Guided by these principles, you’ll be able to tackle any issues as a family and help your child come out the other side stronger, wiser, and more resilient than ever. While it can’t answer every parenting question you’ll ever face (no such tool exists, as there is often no single clear answer), it gives you a framework for dealing with the challenges that come at you and your family.
2019 dat es
Parent Lecture Series The series is primarily for SMS parents, but as an act of service, it is also offered to the Greater Victoria region as a free resource to anyone who is interested in attending.
Thursday, February 28 Thursday, March 7 Thursday, April (TBD) Thursday, May 23
Dr. Jillian Roberts is a child psychologist, author, professor and mother. She earned her PhD at age 26, became an associate professor at the University of Victoria at 32, and shortly after became “I hope that the compass will provide the tools necessary to help the Associate Dean of the Faculty of Education. During this time, Dr. set parents up for success. I also hope that the knowledge from the Roberts also built a successful child psychology practice. series will strengthen the parent-child bond and foster resiliency and greater problem-solving skills that will prepare families for when/if Considered a go-to child psychology expert for journalists, Dr. Roberts is a regular contributor to the Huffington Post, Global News challenges do arise,” said Dr. Roberts. and the CBC. She is the author of two best-selling and awardwinning series of children’s books. “We aim to give families and parents resources for supporting and raising daughters. To bring parents together to realize they aren’t alone, to share ideas, and guidance around questions that parents have around raising children and normalize issues that everyone is dealing with,” said Darlene DeMerchant, Director of Curriculum and Instruction. “Jillian has been connected to our school for many years as a counsellor, service provider, and parent. She can speak from many different angles and as a mother of girls, we are just so grateful to have her,” said Darlene.
“As a parent of two lifers, I believe that SMS is being very innovative and forward thinking by devoting so much time and so many resources to this particular concept. As a mother to girls I think this topic is of particular interest and something all parents of young women should remain conscious of.”
Jillian has been connected to our school for many years as a counsellor, service provider, and parent.
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Life in Boarding The experience of living in residence is like no other, providing a strong sense of community filled with co-curricular programs and international exposure. In residence, our girls create powerful friendships with peers and experience learning that lasts a lifetime. They learn to live with others, manage their time, take on various responsibilities, and lead a balanced life. Boarding at SMS is an ideal environment to help girls grow into wellrounded leaders—a characteristic that will put them on the road to success for the rest of their lives. Our residence model is designed to create a warm and welcoming home-away-from-home; the live-in house parents also work in other areas of the school, which gives them a 360-degree perspective to understand and support each girl’s learning goals. “I enjoy living with people from different countries and learning about other cultures, which is really cool. The house parents and staff work really hard to create an environment that feels like home for us,” said Aitana Goycoolea, Grade 8. “I like being able to have sleepovers with my friends, and every Saturday morning the dining hall serves brunch and it’s delicious. We also get to do tons of really interesting activities like trips, movie nights, and roasting marshmallows in the courtyard,” said Yilia Xu, Grade 8.
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Meet
Meg Foote
Director of Admissions
Meet Meg Foote, Director of Admissions at St. Margaret’s School. Meg joins us from a career in higher education, having spent the past decade working in recruitment and admissions, most recently at Carleton University in Ottawa. She began her career at Memorial University in her home province of Newfoundland before moving on to Carleton, a school of 28,000 students. With a Master of Arts in International Studies from the University of Limerick in Ireland, Meg has melded her career with her twin passions of travel and culture. She spent the past five years travelling around the globe to recruit and admit students from dozens of countries, and she is a strong advocate for diversity in the classroom. “When I moved to BC, I started looking into independent schools. What caught my eye about SMS was the idea of education through a lens of female empowerment, as well as the small school setting. Coming from a school of 28,000, I was excited about the opportunity to become involved on campus and getting to know the students, staff, and families,” said Meg. At SMS, we are fortunate to deliver a quality education while enjoying a beautiful campus, superior facilities, and specialty teachers who know how girls learn best. With an international reputation as a centre for inquiry-based learning, academic excellence, and girls’ leadership development, there is something special to offer from an admissions perspective. As the market becomes more competitive, we hope to diversify our international student population and to grow our market share locally. In BC, we are looking at Vancouver as a major market and hope to capitalize on attracting more students locally to St. Margaret’s.
“The government of Canada has education trade commissioners in embassies all over the world, and their job is to promote Canada as a study destination. SMS is looking, therefore, at international markets where students are interested in coming to Canada because of the quality of education, as well as for the safe and welcoming living conditions,” said Meg. “I have personally done international recruitment in about 25 countries in the world. Some of these are new markets for SMS, but we know there is interest as many Canadian schools are already attracting students from the countries we will be visiting.” Some of those countries are in Africa, the Middle East, and the Indian Subcontinent. As well, recruitment efforts will continue in countries where we have traditionally received international students. “I’m excited to have the SMS community embrace these diversification efforts. I think diversification on campus adds so much to our students’ experience and prepares them for life beyond SMS. However, despite our outreach efforts, our strongest form of recruitment continues to be local families and word of mouth. We always rely on our current families and alumnae to share their experiences and the benefits of the SMS community. “Working at a school that teaches girls’ empowerment is something I am very passionate about and extremely proud to be a part of. At this moment in history, women are reclaiming their own narratives and breaking down barriers in industry, politics, and media. It’s important to make a conscious effort to shape and empower our next generation of young women as more and more doors open for them,” said Meg. Meg will be working side by side with Associate Director of Admissions, Caley Hartney. Caley’s primary focus is on recruitment within North America and Europe, with a special emphasis on Victoria and the day student population.
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Q&A
getting to know Meg
Q
What is your favourite country of those you’ve visited? It’s a tie between Turkey and Rwanda. I’ve spent extensive time in both. Turkey is literally where Europe and Asia/the Middle East meet. Istanbul is technically split down the middle, part in Europe, part in Asia! It’s a vibrant cosmopolitan city filled with beauty, history, culture, and delicious food! I’ve visited many, many times for student recruitment, and just last year, I took my family there on vacation because I wanted them to experience the place that I’ve fallen so much in love with.
Q
Rwanda is a place I wish everyone I knew could experience. Every time I visit Rwanda, it reminds me of what community really is, and I think we all need that reminder sometimes. Most people, when I bring up Rwanda in conversation, only know it for the atrocities its people faced in the genocide of 1990s. Today, it’s a country that seems to have looked the worst atrocities known to humankind in the eye and has vowed never to let it happen again. The spirit of reconciliation and respect is in everything they do as a nation. From an education perspective, it’s impressive: there are actually a few all-girls STEM schools in the small country! I see our values at SMS mirrored in Rwanda. What is your favourite international cuisine? Turkish durum kebab! It needs to be followed with baklava for dessert, of course! I just heard about a place in downtown Victoria, called Efes, that does them, and I can’t wait to check it out!
Q
What is your favourite thing about Victoria?
Q
What’s your favourite book?
Q
I’m originally from an island (Newfoundland), but have been away for some time. When I arrived on Vancouver Island, I recognized so much that I missed about island life. I can see the warmth and the strong sense of community that I’ve missed since being away from Newfoundland. Although I don’t have children of my own, I love children’s books! And because I am from a small community that doesn’t have the same diversity you can experience in Canada’s larger cities, I often shop for children’s books when I travel. I like to send them back to my teacher friends and family with children at home. I recently picked up My Name Is Not Refugee, by Kate Milner, from the shop in the Nobel Peace Center in Norway. I highly recommend it to anyone who might be looking for a way to talk to kids about welcoming new families into our communities who may have experienced hardships on their way here. If you could interview anyone, who would it be? My nerdy side is showing! I have two degrees in politics, and one person I’d love to meet is Joseph Nye. A Harvard professor and advisor to Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, he’s written a lot of international relations theory on the complexities and power dynamics of the relationships that countries have between each other and with other outside influencers.
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Student Art Audrey Darrah
Maryam Mtiraoui
Aitana Goycoolea
Peyton Harker
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Katerina Xing
Corey Sham
Ruthie Sulz
Victoria Green
Hannah Jeong
Marina Lei
Ana Bird SMS Spirit SMS Spirit | 25 | 25
in touch by Janine Cowie, Alumni Relations
1993-94 REUNION Being far away from home, in residence at SMS, creates bonds that last a lifetime. On a recent trip to Vancouver, Elena Aguilar, resident student in 1993–94 made time to pop by to visit us here at SMS. It felt like her fellow Mexican students were still here with her as Elena took photos of her old, but newly remodelled, French House and school grounds on a tour of the campus, sending her former classmates updates along the way. These 1993–94 former students stay in touch regularly and still get together every year for reunions, travelling all over Mexico to visit each other.
KATE STRACHAN – SMS 1995, has been appointed the first female plant manager at Lafarge Exshaw, Canada’s largest cement plant. Kate began working for Lafarge 18 years ago after graduating in mechanical engineering from the University of Victoria in 2000. CHELSEA GREEN – Alumna (1997–98), hit the big time signing with WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) in September 2018. The 27-yearold has been wrestling professionally for four years in Europe, Asia, and America, and is now based in Florida where she trains five days a week at the WWE Performance Center.
FAREWELL KRISTA CARLE – SMS 1983, passed away at age 53 on July 6, 2018. An SMS Archives volunteer, Krista studied at UVic before joining the RCMP in a career that lasted 19 years. She was public about her struggles with PTSD and was awarded the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal for speaking out on behalf of other RCMP officers who experienced harassment within the national police force. Krista leaves behind a large family, including two teenaged children. KATHERINE MORETTIN (Lawrence) – Alumna (1946– 1951), passed away peacefully on January 28, 2018, at the age of 80. Born in Victoria, Katherine leaves behind a daughter, a son, and many friends and family. Katherine will be remembered for her kind, gentle, and thoughtful nature, her amazing memory, and her love of sports. AILEEN “MARGARET” GORDON COOKE (Smith) – Alumna (1928–1935) passed away peacefully on December 3, 2018, in Duncan, BC. She leaves behind a large loving family with children and grandchildren. Margaret was born in 1918 in Toronto and lived most of her childhood in Victoria.
UPDATES
BIRTHS
GILANA MCRAE (James) – SMS 2004. Smitten parents Gilana and her husband, Jason, welcomed daughter Jordyn Avery on June 4, 2018, in Victoria, BC.
MELISSA ARMSTRONG (Smyth) – SMS 2004, and her husband of five years, Chris, lit up their world with the birth of daughter Ocean Pearl in July 2018. The family live a quiet, simple life in the small North Island community of Port McNeill, BC. LYNDSAY ARSENAULT (Bowers)– SMS 1998 is enjoying country life in Alberta, after she and her husband Leigh built their dream home. She and her husband Leigh have a son Evan (born in 2017). Lyndsay works for global pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca in the Cardiovascular and Metabolic Therapeutic Division.
PAM ALEXIS – SMS 1976, has been elected Mayor of Mission, BC. Pam has lived in Mission for more than 22 years working and volunteering in community services, teaching ESL, and serving as vice president for both the 2014 BC Winter Games and the Chamber of Commerce. She also served as school trustee and councillor before running for mayor.
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bubbles & Chocolate Alumnae Event
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You Are Invited! SPRING REUNION Saturday, May 4, 2019
Join us for the annual Old Girls / Alumnae Luncheon in Alexis Hall, followed by a special presentation of the Service with Love Alumnae Awards. Reception: 11:30 am to noon • Luncheon: Noon to 1:30 pm Awards: 1:30 pm to 2:00 pm CAMPUS TOURS • SILENT AUCTION • DOOR PRIZES
Do you know an SMS graduate who is an outstanding volunteer? We invite you to nominate an individual or to self-nominate for a Service with Love Alumnae Award. Nominate via our website www.stmarg.ca or contact Janine Cowie below.
Kindly RSVP by Friday, April 12, 2019 to Janine Cowie: alumnae@stmarg.ca or 250-479-7171 ext. 2172
Contributors and Spirit Team Kelley O’Grady–Editor–in–Chief Contributors–Barbara Sutton, Director of External Relations, Janine Cowie, Annual Fund & Alumnae Relations Manager
Photography–Kelley O’Grady, Jeanine Stannard, John Yanyshyn, Grady Lawlor, Art Director/ Designer–Laurie Darrah, Refinemark Copy Editor–Ruth Wilson, West Coast Editorial Associates
St. Margaret’s School 1080 Lucas Avenue Victoria, British Columbia, Canada V8X 3P7
www.stmarg.ca @saintmargarets
@stmargaretsschool @st_margarets