Crofton House Remembers
Crofton House alumnae have always embodied the values of courage and service. During both World Wars, alumnae supported the war efforts in remarkable ways—serving as nurses, ambulance drivers, and members of the Army Corps and Naval Service. CHS students at that time organized fundraising events that eventually led to the creation of the much-loved Crofton House Winter Bazaar, and CHS alumnae became involved in the Bazaar in the 1960s. It is a tradition that still brings our community together today. Learn more about alumnae and students’ efforts during World Wars I and II.
Earlier this month, our community marked Remembrance Day with a special, student-led assembly that highlighted the contributions of Indigenous veterans, Canadian Forces in the Arctic North, and Canada’s overseas missions in Central America and beyond. Watch a recording of the assembly.
 Each year, the Senior School Library marks Remembrance Day with a thoughtful display, one of the many ways the occasion is recognized across campus. This year’s display featured Oh Johnny!, the memoir of Mary “Johnnie” Duffus, who attended CHS in the 1920s. In her book, Mary shares a vivid account of her World War II service with the Canadian Wrens (the Women’s Royal Canadian Naval Service) and reflects warmly on her days at Crofton House, recalling the lasting friendships she formed here. A dedicated
member of both her local community and the Crofton House School community, Mary “Johnnie” Duffus served as a former Alumnae Association president (1962 - 1964) and was the first of three generations to attend CHS—followed by her daughters Drue (Duffus) Akhurst ’66, Susan (Duffus) Lucas ’63, and her granddaughter Christie Akhurst ’96.
If you have stories about CHS alumnae and their contributions to either of the World Wars, please share them with us.
Warm regards,
CHS Alumnae Relations
Alumna Spotlight: Diana Filer ’50 Celebrates Quirks & Quarks Milestone
This year marks the 50th anniversary of Quirks & Quarks, the groundbreaking CBC Radio science program created by alumna Diana Filer in 1975. As the show’s original producer and the mind behind its now-iconic name, Filer reflects on launching that very first episode and setting the stage for a program that would inspire generations of curious listeners.
In a recent interview, she shared insights into the show’s early days and the excitement of building a space where science could come alive for the public. Quirks & Quarks remains a trusted voice continuing the legacy that Diana Filer began 50 years ago. Watch her interview with the CBC.
Join Our Network of Employers
CHS is seeking opportunities for Grade 11 and 12 students to gain work experience in December, March, and July. If you or someone you know would be interested in providing a placement for CHS students, there is an excellent cohort of students ready for placement this year. Complete the intake form.
Alumnae Gathering in London, UK
CHS alumnae in London gathered for a Sunday brunch on November 9, bringing together a wonderful mix of graduates from the Class of 1989 to 2021. Organized by CHS Alumnae Association representative Audrey Watt ’14, the event drew alumnae working across a range of fields, including engineering, healthcare, finance, marketing, and executive recruitment. With the holidays just around the corner, many are already looking forward to reconnecting again during the festive season.
Alumnae Country Kitchen: Many Hands Made Light Work of 450 Jam Jars
Alumnae from the classes of 1978 to 2020 gathered in the Rix Foods Lab in September and October to make fruit jams for the Alumnae Country Kitchen at the Crofton House Winter Bazaar. Smells of strawberry rhubarb, blueberry, apple cardamom and peach rosé pepper jelly filled the room. Neither measuring nor stirring slowed the chatter and laughter. All apples, blueberries, and peaches were donated by a current Crofton House family’s business, FutureLife Farm.
Alumnae Volunteers and Junior School Students: Learn, Knit, Connect
With the support of CHS staff and volunteer alumnae, Grade 4 and 5 students spend the winter knitting for Project Linus, an organization that provides blankets to children facing challenging times. This program is one example of the wonderful CHS community partnerships that exist.
This after-school knitting program has continued to grow since 2024 and is being planned again from January 15 to March 5, 2026, on Thursday afternoons. Alumnae are warmly invited to join—whether by visiting to share encouragement with students or by knitting a blanket at home to contribute alongside the Junior School. Please contact us if you would like more information, a copy of the knitting pattern, or to RSVP.
A Vibrant Partnership for Learning: Connecting Students and Alumnae
CHS alum mum and children's author Rachel Poliquin ’93 joined us on campus on November 4 and 6 as the Writer-in-Residence, leading students in becoming curious explorers of the animal world.
Stay tuned for a blog post capturing Rachel’s full residency when she returns to campus in January, and a heartfelt thank you to Rachel for inspiring our young writers with such enthusiasm and creativity during the November visit!
Resilient? Resourceful? Solutions-Oriented? There’s a Place for You at ACE 2026
Hosted by the Alumnae Association, the Alumnae Career Exchange (ACE) returns to Manrell Hall on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm, for an evening of product, business and industry knowledge sharing.
Mastering an entrepreneurial mindset involves taking risks, and learning from challenges and failures. We welcome CHS alumnae who want to showcase their work or learn from others who have switched careers, started businesses or are just managing a side hustle.
The world is filled with CHS alumnae who work in travel, real estate, fashion, hospitality, wellness, business, law, and more. Whether you’re a founder, professional, or just getting started in your career, we invite you to present or participate. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect, inspire, and showcase your work. For more information and registration, please email aaacecommittee@croftonhouse.ca.
CHS Annual Report & Highlight Video
The 2024-2025 CHS Annual Report has now been published. Alumnae are invited to view the report and an accompanying highlight video celebrating the 2024-2025 school year.
Whole Girl, Whole World: Supporting Girls to Thrive
On Thursday, November 20, Crofton House School parents, alumnae, and friends gathered to learn from seasoned clinical counsellor, speaker, and trainer Julie-Anne Richards as part of the Whole Girl, Whole World speaker series. Whole Girl, Whole World explores ways to support girls in thriving and positively influencing the world around them.
Julie-Anne provided attendees with research-based tools to help support the girls in their lives. We invite you to listen to a recording of Julie-Anne’s talk, available to watch online until Wednesday, December 31.
Upcoming Calendar of Events
- Saturday, November 29, 2025: Crofton House Winter Bazaar - Alumnae Country Kitchen Booth (Join us!)
- Monday, December 15, 2025: Class of 2005 Reunion
- Wednesday, December 17, 2025: Young Alumnae Holiday Social
- Friday, December 19, 2025: Carol Service & Seasonal Social
- January to March, 2026: Stringing a Yarn
- Wednesday, February 4, 2026: Alumnae Career Exchange
- Friday, February 20, 2026: Lunar New Year Celebration
- Friday, March 6, 2026: Crofton House School Birthday
- March 10-14, 2026: Regional Alumnae Mixers in Canada
- Tuesday, April 14, 2026: CHS Career Conference
Visit the Alumnae Events page for more details and registration info.
From the Archives
Alumnae who served during WWII, c. 1944
Do you recognize these alumnae? Help the archives by letting us know who they are.
Be in the know, and stay connected. Follow us on Instagram (@chsalumnae), LinkedIn and Facebook, and join the alumnae network at croftonconnect.ca.
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