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Welcome to Spring! We hope that you enjoy this edition of 1898 where we proudly highlight the 2018 Alumnae Achievement Award recipients. Take time to read the inspirational messages they shared with the school and to browse through the many photos of the CHS 120th Birthday Celebrations!
This year the Alumnae Association was delighted to be able to present Achievement Awards in both of the award categories: Junior Achievement and Lifetime Achievement. The Alumnae Association Lifetime Achievement Award is presented to an alumna in recognition of her outstanding dedication and accomplishment toward her life’s work. The Alumnae Association Junior Achievement Award is presented to a young alumna, under 40 years of age, in recognition of her accomplishments in making a difference in the lives of others. 
“I threw myself to the wind, and said, ‘OK, I’m going to trust there’s a purpose for me being here, and I’m going to put one foot in front of the other, and I’m going to show up every single day to see what life brings me.’ Sometimes it brought me things I didn’t like, other times it brought me things that were just fantastic.” Ann cites a story from early in her career, an opportunity to star in a Broadway play — a big potential break that required signing a three-year contract. She quickly realized that meant performing eight shows a week for 36 months ... and that she was completely uninspired by the music and lyrics (all these years later, she can still recite those words). Where some would have signed, Ann opted to listen to her gut and returned to Vancouver. Within three days, she received a call from the Royal Winnipeg Ballet to write the music for The Ecstasy of Rita Joe, which became a global hit and launched a career in the performing arts that has earned her worldwide acclaim and spanned more than four decades. 
Closer to home, as co-founder of the Reading Bear Society, a Vancouver-wide early literacy initiative that brings literacy into the homes of elementary school-age children, Isabel advocates for reading and community. Isabel says it took some time for her to figure out what her path was in life, a journey still very much in the works. “Receiving this award has given me great pause, and great opportunity to pause, to take stock of what I’ve done, where I’ve been. Often, as a student and then in your career, you’re looking forward — anticipating. There’s an incredible honour and humility that comes with any recognition. It makes me extremely reflective about all the mentors in my life, and the many wonderful people I work with across many different realms.” |
On the winding road of life, there are twists and turns, ups and downs, uncertainties and new chapters. With every door that closes, a new opportunity arises — every step leads us that much closer to where we are today, says Ann Mortifee ’65, when asked what advice she would offer CHS girls and alumnae. 
If there's a common theme across the the many threads of the life and accomplishments of Isabel Chen '06, it's that, “I use my skills and energy for those who need an advocate. Really, it’s using my voice to help people advocate for themselves.”
Today, as a family doctor practicing in Los Angeles, Isabel advocates for her patients — particularly those who don’t have access to health care. Among other community-minded endeavours, it has included working with Iraqi refugees.
21st Annual CHS Golf Classic – This year’s golf tournament will be held on Friday, May 25 at the University Golf Club. All funds raised will support the school’s new bursary program. For more information, please contact Kathryn Drew, Events Coordinator, Advancement. Jam Making Sessions are Back! – Mark Thursday, June 14 in your calendars! The strawberries will be in season, which means the alumnae will be back making jam for the next Winter Bazaar. No experience is needed – just the desire to reconnect with old and new friends! Full details will be posted on the alumnae events page. Whole Girl, Whole World Speakser Series– Crofton House School welcomes Jessica Lahey, teacher, New York Times columnist and best-selling author of The Gift of Failure to campus September 27, 2018. Jessica will speak to alumnae, parents, educators about how letting children fail can be the key to their success. A reduced-rate presale of $10/ticket runs from now until May 31. Get your tickets » Spring Alumnae Events - Mark Your Calendars!
For more details about upcoming events, visit the alumnae events page » |
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Kailea Rendle ’18 – Citizenship in Action Kailea Rendle ’18 is using her interest in design and textiles to help girls in countries around the world continue their education. Two years ago, Kailea learned about Days for Girls, an organization that aims to create a world with dignity, health, and opportunity for all, through sustainable menstrual care solutions and health education. As millions of girls around the world miss school every month due to their periods, one of the organization’s major initiatives is creating “Days for Girls Kits”. These kits are distributed to girls in over 110 countries around the world and contain supplies to help girls continue to go to school throughout the month, giving them confidence and removing the still present stigma attached to menstruation. When Kailea saw how effectively she could help with just some simple supplies and sewing, she started making the kits. Now, having made about 200 of them, she is reaching out to the CHS community to expand the effort and ensure it can continue after she graduates this June. |
Inspiring girls to discover and pursue their personal excellence.
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Inspiration through Life Stories The Lunch and Learn Program welcomes alumnae back to campus to speak with girls in Grades 11 & 12 about their careers and education path.
If you are interested in being a ‘Lunch and Learn’ speaker, please contact Lydia (McNeill) Vandenberg ’85, Assistant Director Advancement at lvandenberg@croftonhouse.ca. |
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Dear Alumnae, The Alumnae Association Annual General Meeting was held on March 4th and marked the end of Gillian Reynolds ’90 term as President. Jennifer (Connell) Fotheringham ’84, incoming President, payed tribute to Gillian’s dedication and commitment to the Association and thanked her for her energy and service. Gillian in turn presented Jennifer with the coveted Gordon tartan blazer as she starts her term. Traditions are indeed alive and well with the Alumnae Association!
The Alumnae Association Executive for 2018/2019: Jennifer (Connell) Fotheringham ’84, President |
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