News Archive

 

April 27, 1916 was the day that C.W. Lonsdale signed the charter that created Shawnigan, and we marked it with events both serious and – in the words of an alumnus and former Chair of the Board of Governors – “absurd and ridiculous.” Interested in learning more about Lonsdale’s journey in creating a boarding school, read this blog post by Shawnigan’s archivist, Sarah Teunis-Russ.  

 

Throughout 2026, we are celebrating the School’s 110th anniversary with special gatherings around the world, from London, Tokyo, Shanghai, and Seoul to Hong Kong and back home on campus.

Shawnigan was proud to host a special 110th anniversary event at Canada House in Trafalgar Square, London, on March 27, 2026. We were delighted to welcome over 120 guests from our global community, including alumni, current and past parents, and friends of the School. Most incredibly, we were joined by David Trafford-Roberts ’43 (Lake’s), who originally attended Shawnigan as part of Operation Pied Piper during WWII! Other special guests included Canadian Olympic gold medallist (Tokyo 2020) Maggie Mac Neil, nuclear physicist Gerry Lander (son of John Lander '24, Shawnigan’s first Olympic gold medallist), and Gary Savage, Headmaster of Westminster School (C.W. Lonsdale’s alma mater).

Reid Irwin has continued to build an impressive path both academically and athletically since graduating from Shawnigan Lake School. After completing his time in junior A hockey, Reid earned a scholarship to the University of Denver before transferring to Colgate University, where he spent his final three NCAA seasons. At Colgate, he served as assistant captain in his junior year and was named captain in his senior year, reflecting his strong leadership and character.

Following graduation, Reid pursued professional hockey. While he had multiple playing options, education remained a priority. He ultimately signed with the Belfast Giants of the Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL) in the United Kingdom. So far, in his first professional season, Reid has recorded 19 points in 44 games on a very strong Belfast team.

Beyond hockey, the Belfast Giants support their players’ academic growth. Reid is currently completing his MBA in Project Management through Lasell University in Massachusetts, balancing graduate studies alongside his professional career.

Reid’s journey highlights the lasting impact of a Shawnigan education and the balance of leadership, academics, and athletics beyond school. 

Shawnigan Lake School is a proud supporter of the HSBC Vancouver Sevens. Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, the Lecky Foundation, and all of our sponsors for keeping the tradition of Shawnigan rugby stronger than ever.

The Lecky family’s connection to Shawnigan Lake School is foundational. John M.S. Lecky ’57 (Groves’) was a visionary whose commitment to the School is absolute.