News Detail
Alumni Notebook - Nov 2023
Founder's Day 2023
The School was honoured to welcome alumni back for a weekend filled with celebration and reconnection with past classmates and staff.
Alumni are the heartbeat of the Shawnigan community, and we couldn't be more grateful to spend this time with all of you. As shared by Niko Zorkin ’73 (Lonsdale’s) during his Chapel address:
“As I look around, I am reminded of the countless lessons my classmates and I learned within the School walls, the friendships that withstood the test of time, and the dreams that were ignited right here.”
We are delighted that the Class of 1973 has chosen to mark its fiftieth reunion by establishing the Class of '73 Zenith Scholarship Fund to support access to the School for a deserving student, following in the footsteps of the Class of 1972, which established a similar scholarship last year.
To read the full Founder's Day story, click here.
Sign into Shawnigan Connect to see photos from the day and reconnect with fellow alumni.
Alumni are the heartbeat of the Shawnigan community, and we couldn't be more grateful to spend this time with all of you. As shared by Niko Zorkin ’73 (Lonsdale’s) during his Chapel address:
“As I look around, I am reminded of the countless lessons my classmates and I learned within the School walls, the friendships that withstood the test of time, and the dreams that were ignited right here.”
We are delighted that the Class of 1973 has chosen to mark its fiftieth reunion by establishing the Class of '73 Zenith Scholarship Fund to support access to the School for a deserving student, following in the footsteps of the Class of 1972, which established a similar scholarship last year.
To read the full Founder's Day story, click here.
Sign into Shawnigan Connect to see photos from the day and reconnect with fellow alumni.
Your feedback matters! As we look ahead to our next alumni events, and plan for the next Founder's Day, we would appreciate your feedback on this Founder's Day Survey (regardless of whether or not you attended) to help us further enhance our alumni engagement. Complete the short survey by Thursday, November 30 and be entered to win a $100 Shawnigan Commissary Gift card.
Fall Community Gatherings
Thank you to everyone who joined the Shawnigan community gatherings this fall. It was wonderful to reconnect and spend time together!
For an up-to-date list of community events, keep an eye on our website, alumni Instagram page, and alumni Facebook group.
For an up-to-date list of community events, keep an eye on our website, alumni Instagram page, and alumni Facebook group.
Jason Yosung Park ’05 Scholars Trip
The Jason Yosung Park ’05 Scholarship, one of Shawnigan’s highest honours, was established in 2011 by Captain Sam and Mrs. Jackie Park in memory of their son. This scholarship includes a financial award and a trip to South Korea generously hosted by the Park family.
Jason was beloved by faculty and peers alike. During his time at the School, Jason excelled in fine arts and sports. His leadership on and off the rugby field was universally recognized, and his warmth and charisma were admired by all. “It was the time of his life where he really blossomed as an individual,” said Captain Park about Jason’s experience at Shawnigan. On his graduation day, Jason received a Stag Award, a special recognition given to those whose contributions have made Shawnigan a better place.
In 2012, the first recipient of the Park Scholarship was warmly welcomed to the Park family home. Park Scholars have been traveling to Korea annually ever since to experience the culture, food, and beautiful landscapes of the country, while deepening their understanding of Jason's legacy.
After several years of travel restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the past four recipients (Adam Hyde-Lay ’23 [Lonsdale’s], Matt Strilets ’21 [Copeman’s], Ben Bishop ’23 [Copeman’s], and Benedikt Howard ’22 [Copeman’s]) had the opportunity to travel as a group of Park Scholars in July 2023. Highlights of their trip included pottery decoration, karaoke, golf, and Korean BBQ and other culinary delights. The Park Scholars visited Busan, Incheon and Seoul, among other destinations. During the trip, they made a special visit to the Memorial Park to pay their respects to Jason and honour his impact on their lives and futures.
“The trip was amazing. It was very nice to spend time with the Parks and experience Korean culture. I felt very honoured getting to know Jason more. I’m very grateful for their kindness and hospitality, and will forever cherish this experience in Korea.” – Matt Strilets ’21 (Copeman’s)
“It was the trip of a lifetime for me, and one of the most memorable things I've ever done. Every experience we had in Korea, of which there were so many, is an everlasting memory I will cherish forever.” – Adam Hyde-Lay ’23 (Lonsdale’s)
The current recipient, Josef J. ’24, will be traveling to South Korea in the coming year. Thank you to Captain Sam and Mrs. Jackie Park, and Jason’s brother Joseph Park ’02 (Lake’s), for their kindness, generosity, hospitality, and continued support!
Jason was beloved by faculty and peers alike. During his time at the School, Jason excelled in fine arts and sports. His leadership on and off the rugby field was universally recognized, and his warmth and charisma were admired by all. “It was the time of his life where he really blossomed as an individual,” said Captain Park about Jason’s experience at Shawnigan. On his graduation day, Jason received a Stag Award, a special recognition given to those whose contributions have made Shawnigan a better place.
In 2012, the first recipient of the Park Scholarship was warmly welcomed to the Park family home. Park Scholars have been traveling to Korea annually ever since to experience the culture, food, and beautiful landscapes of the country, while deepening their understanding of Jason's legacy.
After several years of travel restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the past four recipients (Adam Hyde-Lay ’23 [Lonsdale’s], Matt Strilets ’21 [Copeman’s], Ben Bishop ’23 [Copeman’s], and Benedikt Howard ’22 [Copeman’s]) had the opportunity to travel as a group of Park Scholars in July 2023. Highlights of their trip included pottery decoration, karaoke, golf, and Korean BBQ and other culinary delights. The Park Scholars visited Busan, Incheon and Seoul, among other destinations. During the trip, they made a special visit to the Memorial Park to pay their respects to Jason and honour his impact on their lives and futures.
“The trip was amazing. It was very nice to spend time with the Parks and experience Korean culture. I felt very honoured getting to know Jason more. I’m very grateful for their kindness and hospitality, and will forever cherish this experience in Korea.” – Matt Strilets ’21 (Copeman’s)
“It was the trip of a lifetime for me, and one of the most memorable things I've ever done. Every experience we had in Korea, of which there were so many, is an everlasting memory I will cherish forever.” – Adam Hyde-Lay ’23 (Lonsdale’s)
The current recipient, Josef J. ’24, will be traveling to South Korea in the coming year. Thank you to Captain Sam and Mrs. Jackie Park, and Jason’s brother Joseph Park ’02 (Lake’s), for their kindness, generosity, hospitality, and continued support!
Ryan Gan ’14 (Duxbury) and Rhys Davies ’10 (Copeman’s) – HMCS Vancouver Naval Officers
Shawnigan in the Navy! Alumni Ryan Gan ’14 (Duxbury) and Rhys Davies ’10 (Copeman’s) reconnected with the Alumni Relations team this summer.
Ryan and Rhys are both serving as Naval Warfare Officers aboard the HMCS Vancouver, deployed to the Indo-Pacific region for Operation Horizon.
Rhys is the operations officer, responsible for coordinating with teams on and off the ship including an air team, a logistics team, a combat systems team, a deck team, and an operations team of over 60 members.
Ryan is a Watchkeeper, responsible for driving and operating the ship on the Captain’s behalf, navigation, weapons, and the routine of all sailors aboard. Ryan is also a navy diver and the Diving Officer aboard HMCS Vancouver.
Ryan and Rhys agree that “every day is a new challenge” and love the teamwork aspect of working on the warship.
“Not many people can say, ‘my job has let me serve on every continent, including Antarctica,’” they said.
When asked what their favourite memories were from their time at Shawnigan, Rhys reminisced about heading to the boathouse in early summer to swim with friends, including Heidi de Jager ‘10 (Groves’), who is now his wife. Ryan fondly remembered Snowfest and Stag Café days.
Rhys also recognized the impact Mr. Hyde-Lay had as a House Director, and his core message of respect, honesty, and humour in the face of adversity has stuck with him to this day. Ryan said the same of the values of discipline, kindness, and courage that his House Director Mr. Dukelow instilled in him.
As part of the Canadian Government’s outreach program, service members help lead intramural sporting events with various host nations. Ryan and Rhys will be representing the School with their new Shawnigan Rugby shirts and ball as they continue their travels!
Ryan and Rhys are both serving as Naval Warfare Officers aboard the HMCS Vancouver, deployed to the Indo-Pacific region for Operation Horizon.
Rhys is the operations officer, responsible for coordinating with teams on and off the ship including an air team, a logistics team, a combat systems team, a deck team, and an operations team of over 60 members.
Ryan is a Watchkeeper, responsible for driving and operating the ship on the Captain’s behalf, navigation, weapons, and the routine of all sailors aboard. Ryan is also a navy diver and the Diving Officer aboard HMCS Vancouver.
Ryan and Rhys agree that “every day is a new challenge” and love the teamwork aspect of working on the warship.
“Not many people can say, ‘my job has let me serve on every continent, including Antarctica,’” they said.
When asked what their favourite memories were from their time at Shawnigan, Rhys reminisced about heading to the boathouse in early summer to swim with friends, including Heidi de Jager ‘10 (Groves’), who is now his wife. Ryan fondly remembered Snowfest and Stag Café days.
Rhys also recognized the impact Mr. Hyde-Lay had as a House Director, and his core message of respect, honesty, and humour in the face of adversity has stuck with him to this day. Ryan said the same of the values of discipline, kindness, and courage that his House Director Mr. Dukelow instilled in him.
As part of the Canadian Government’s outreach program, service members help lead intramural sporting events with various host nations. Ryan and Rhys will be representing the School with their new Shawnigan Rugby shirts and ball as they continue their travels!
Avi Horwitz ’12 (Lake’s)
Avi Horwitz ’12 (Lake’s) has been recognized as a BCBusiness 30 under 30 winner!
Following his time at Shawnigan, he studied at Western for a year then decided the academic route was not for him. He took time out for reflection in early 2016, and then spent six months working in the flooring division of a Vancouver furnishing company.
In October 2016, Avi broke out on his own and established his own company, Sterling Floor & Tile. He saw success quickly, with over $1.5 million in sales in the first year. Avi projects sales will hit $50 million for the company in a couple of years.
Congratulations on this honour and we wish Avi continued success!
Three generations of Shawnigan alumni in one family! Jon Ardagh ’60 and his wife, Ghislaine, visited the campus in early August. Jon’s father, Vernon, graduated in 1933 and his son, Robert ’06 (Duxbury), and daughter, Giselle ’08 (Groves’), are also alumni of the School.
Giselle is now a chemistry teacher in South Surrey and Jon credits Mr. Nigel Mayes for Giselle’s passion for the subject.
Djustice Sears-Duru ’12 (Duxbury), Jack Shaw ’18 (Duxbury), Ciaran Breen ’19 (Lonsdale’s), and Jamin Hodgkins '20 (Lonsdale's) were named to the Canada Senior Men's team to play in the La Vila International Rugby Cup in Spain this month.
Eloise Blackwell ’08 (Groves’), ex-Captain of the New Zealand Black Ferns, played for the Barbarians vs South Africa in Cape Town in September.
Nico Falcon ’20 (Ripley’s) played for Mexico’s Rugby 7s team at the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Langford in August and in the Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile this fall.
Maggie Banks ’19 (Renfrew) played for Canada’s U23 Women’s Rugby team in Boston in July, winning a two-game series versus the USA.
Gerry Atkins ’21 (Groves’) represented Canada U20 Women against USA and Wales in Ottawa in July.
Jeffrey Young ’22 (Duxbury) played for Rugby Canada U20 Men against USA in a two game series in June.
Ava Ference ’23 (Renfrew) represented Team Canada Rugby 7s and received a silver medal at the Youth Commonwealth Games in Trinidad and Tobago this summer.
Thorson Noble ’23 (Lonsdale’s) played with Rugby Canada’s U18 team in July on the European tour.
Dane Siebens ’22 (Copeman’s) and Dylan Thygesen ’23 (Copeman’s) played for Alberta and Connor Arthur ’22 (Duxbury) played for BC in the Canadian U19 National Championship Tournament in Vancouver in July.
Josh Ketch ’23 (Copeman’s) and Kale Jones ’23 (Duxbury) won gold with the BC Rugby U18 boys’s team in the Western Canadian Championships in Calgary in July.
Ben Berard ’17 (Copeman’s) signed with the Texas Stars of the AHL.
Ashley McCabe ’17 (Renfrew) began her professional career with the Falu Ice Hockey Association in the Swedish city of Falu this year.
JoJo Tanaka-Campbell ’19 (Ripley’s) and Seiya Tanaka-Campbell ’21 (Ripley’s) toured Europe with Yale's Men’s Hockey team.
Abby Dyers ’21 (Strathcona) is currently rowing for the Ottawa Rowing Club and came second in the U23 Women's coxed eight, second in the Senior Women’s coxed eight, and third in the Senior Women’s coxless four in the Ontario Rowing Championships.
Sophie Miranda ’20 (Groves’) was Ontario University Athletics first team all-star, captain of Queen’s University’s women’s soccer team, and team MVP of the Victoria Highlanders in League 1 BC.
Casey Crowley ’15 (Strathcona) played field hockey for the NZ Blacksticks in the Olympic qualifying tournament.
On July 8, 2023. Alumni in attendance included: Amanda Reid ’09 (Renfrew), Dayle Murray ’09 (Renfrew), Marlie Coward ’09 (Strathcona), Morgan Lee ’10 (Renfrew), Jacqlyn Kernohan ’10 (Renfrew), Alex Conconi ’05 (Copeman’s), Katie Flanagan ’06 (Renfrew), Maddy Hall ’08 (Renfrew), Kelly Rentz ’11 (Renfrew), Chloe Wurm ’11 (Renfrew), Tessa Halleran ’11 (Kaye’s), Lizzie Adams ’12 (Kaye’s), Shannon Kelly ’11 (Groves’), Jenna Hickman ’11 (Groves’), and Dave Hansford ’02 (Duxbury).
On September 9, 2023 in Cumberland, BC. Alumni in attendance included: Sarah Kingstone ’07 (Kaye’s), Chris Linn ’08 (Ripley’s), Alex Housser ’08 (Duxbury), Daf Samuel ’08 (Ripley’s), Brendan Cook ’08 (Ripley’s), and Brian Sirkia ’08 (Lonsdale’s).
Following his time at Shawnigan, he studied at Western for a year then decided the academic route was not for him. He took time out for reflection in early 2016, and then spent six months working in the flooring division of a Vancouver furnishing company.
In October 2016, Avi broke out on his own and established his own company, Sterling Floor & Tile. He saw success quickly, with over $1.5 million in sales in the first year. Avi projects sales will hit $50 million for the company in a couple of years.
Congratulations on this honour and we wish Avi continued success!
Briana James ’06 (Renfrew)
As everyone at Shawnigan celebrated the incredible fundraising efforts of our friends at Cops for Cancer, alumna Briana James ‘06 (Renfrew) had an exciting story of her own to share.
This summer, Briana embarked on the Tour de Cure bike ride for BC Cancer in honour of her late mother, Ali. “It was a tribute to her memory, a celebration of her spirit, and a way to honour her enduring love,” said Briana.
Thanks to an outpouring of generosity and Briana’s hard work, she was able to raise an outstanding $262,957. In total, the ride collectively raised $7.1 million for essential cancer research.
Congratulations on this meaningful tribute and remarkable impact, Briana!
This summer, Briana embarked on the Tour de Cure bike ride for BC Cancer in honour of her late mother, Ali. “It was a tribute to her memory, a celebration of her spirit, and a way to honour her enduring love,” said Briana.
Thanks to an outpouring of generosity and Briana’s hard work, she was able to raise an outstanding $262,957. In total, the ride collectively raised $7.1 million for essential cancer research.
Congratulations on this meaningful tribute and remarkable impact, Briana!
Mia Lang ’19 (Renfrew)
Alumna Mia Lang ’19 (Renfrew) reconnected with the Advancement and Community Engagement team this September to share some of her latest accomplishments.
Mia recently graduated from Wesleyan University with degrees in film, astronomy, and math!
Starting out at Wesleyan, Mia pursued her first love of film. As she explored everything the university had to offer, she quickly became enamored with their course offerings in math and astrophysics. Last summer, she even had the opportunity to teach astrophysics to a select group of Grade 12 students from across the US at the University of Colorado, Boulder.
Amidst her studies, Mia completed a short film called “OMENS”, shot on 16 mm as her senior thesis. Since graduating, she hasn’t stopped, jumping right into another short film project “MERMAID” (currently in post-production).
Mia credits her love of film to The Lord of the Rings film series, saying “I just knew I had to be doing that, whatever that was,” upon seeing the film for the first time.
Mia shared fond memories of her time at Shawnigan, and the profound impact of every teacher who supported her.
“I am so grateful to my Shawnigan family for allowing me to grow into the person I am today.”
Mia recently graduated from Wesleyan University with degrees in film, astronomy, and math!
Starting out at Wesleyan, Mia pursued her first love of film. As she explored everything the university had to offer, she quickly became enamored with their course offerings in math and astrophysics. Last summer, she even had the opportunity to teach astrophysics to a select group of Grade 12 students from across the US at the University of Colorado, Boulder.
Amidst her studies, Mia completed a short film called “OMENS”, shot on 16 mm as her senior thesis. Since graduating, she hasn’t stopped, jumping right into another short film project “MERMAID” (currently in post-production).
Mia credits her love of film to The Lord of the Rings film series, saying “I just knew I had to be doing that, whatever that was,” upon seeing the film for the first time.
Mia shared fond memories of her time at Shawnigan, and the profound impact of every teacher who supported her.
“I am so grateful to my Shawnigan family for allowing me to grow into the person I am today.”
Sarah Lane ’97 (Groves’)
Sarah Lane ’97 (Groves’) has been cast in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella at the Gateway Theatre in Richmond, BC! With over 200 people auditioning, and a final cast of 20, the competition was fierce.
“I’m hugely honoured… Lots of work ahead for sure but I’m elated,” said Sarah about her role in the show.
You can see Sarah in the Ensemble and acting as understudy for the Stepmother and Stepsister in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella from December 14-31,2023 at Gateway Theatre in Richmond.
“I’m hugely honoured… Lots of work ahead for sure but I’m elated,” said Sarah about her role in the show.
You can see Sarah in the Ensemble and acting as understudy for the Stepmother and Stepsister in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella from December 14-31,2023 at Gateway Theatre in Richmond.
Cassie Chang ’16 (Renfrew)
Cassie Chang ’16 (Renfrew) was warmly welcomed back to the School recently to perform at the Truth and Reconciliation Chapel service. Cassie marked this important occasion with an original song titled “Vancouver,” which is part of a song cycle called “Internalized Globalization.” The piece was inspired by reconciliation, dialogue, and her friendship with Indigenous alumna Chelsea Gladstone ’15 (Renfrew). It serves as a celebration of the land and her gratitude for growing up in such a wonderful community.
When asked about her time at Shawnigan, Cassie was particularly grateful for the support of Ms.Tyrrell who drove her to festivals, gave her theory lessons, and nurtured her musical talent. “Faculty at Shawnigan really give so much! It’s actually very hard to choose just one person to mention,” said Cassie.
During the summers, Cassie would attend a camp at UBC and it was there that she was convinced to specifically pursue Opera. Upon graduation from Shawnigan, she began her Bachelor of Music in Opera Performance at UBC. The program included intensive study of music theory, music history, languages, and performance. She also completed an exchange in Germany, where she was immersed in the vibrant opera community and history of the country.
In 2020, she moved to New York City and began pursuing her Master of Music in Classical Voice where she premiered “Internalized Globalization,” sang lead roles and worked with renowned faculty. Following the completion of her master’s degree, she made her Lincoln Center debut this summer and was invited to the Canadian Opera Company as a Young Artist for its Summer Intensive.
These days, Cassie says she is “doing what [she has] always wanted to do!”
If you would like to see Cassie perform, you can catch a show on January 7, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. when she returns to her alma mater, UBC, for a special performance at the Old Auditorium.
Check out Cassie’s YouTube page for updated videos: Cassie Chang Soprano
When asked about her time at Shawnigan, Cassie was particularly grateful for the support of Ms.Tyrrell who drove her to festivals, gave her theory lessons, and nurtured her musical talent. “Faculty at Shawnigan really give so much! It’s actually very hard to choose just one person to mention,” said Cassie.
During the summers, Cassie would attend a camp at UBC and it was there that she was convinced to specifically pursue Opera. Upon graduation from Shawnigan, she began her Bachelor of Music in Opera Performance at UBC. The program included intensive study of music theory, music history, languages, and performance. She also completed an exchange in Germany, where she was immersed in the vibrant opera community and history of the country.
In 2020, she moved to New York City and began pursuing her Master of Music in Classical Voice where she premiered “Internalized Globalization,” sang lead roles and worked with renowned faculty. Following the completion of her master’s degree, she made her Lincoln Center debut this summer and was invited to the Canadian Opera Company as a Young Artist for its Summer Intensive.
These days, Cassie says she is “doing what [she has] always wanted to do!”
If you would like to see Cassie perform, you can catch a show on January 7, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. when she returns to her alma mater, UBC, for a special performance at the Old Auditorium.
Check out Cassie’s YouTube page for updated videos: Cassie Chang Soprano
Mike Hess ’73 (Lake’s)
In September, current Shawnigan parent Sierra Acton had the opportunity to connect with Mike Hess ’73 (Lake’s) while touring the University of Washington with her son.
Mike was a rower with the US National Team, a 1976 Olympian, and a 1977 Grand Challenge Cup Champion. During his time at Shawnigan, he won the Royal Henley Rowing Regatta’s Grand Challenge cup and met Prince Philip.
Mike was a rower with the US National Team, a 1976 Olympian, and a 1977 Grand Challenge Cup Champion. During his time at Shawnigan, he won the Royal Henley Rowing Regatta’s Grand Challenge cup and met Prince Philip.
Campus Visits
Jon Ardagh ’60 (Groves’)
Three generations of Shawnigan alumni in one family! Jon Ardagh ’60 and his wife, Ghislaine, visited the campus in early August. Jon’s father, Vernon, graduated in 1933 and his son, Robert ’06 (Duxbury), and daughter, Giselle ’08 (Groves’), are also alumni of the School.
Giselle is now a chemistry teacher in South Surrey and Jon credits Mr. Nigel Mayes for Giselle’s passion for the subject.
Morgan Stade ’15 (Lonsdale’s)
Morgan Stade ’15 (Lonsdale’s), partner Shino, and daughter Adabelle stopped by the School this summer. Morgan was on his way to Comox to compete in BC Strongman’s British Columbia’s Strongest competition. Congratulations on qualifying for nationals, Morgan!
Bart Lawrence ’05 (Ripley’s)
Bart Lawrence ’05 (Ripley’s), wife Leanne, and daughter Georgia visited the School on August 1st. It was Bart’s first visit back since his graduation!
Bart is now living in Maple Ridge and doing daring and impressive work with high voltage cables in the US. Bart’s wife is a businesswoman and entrepreneur who runs four small companies.
During Bart’s visit, he met up with David Hyde-Lay, who was roommates with Bart’s father during their time at Shawnigan.
Bart is now living in Maple Ridge and doing daring and impressive work with high voltage cables in the US. Bart’s wife is a businesswoman and entrepreneur who runs four small companies.
During Bart’s visit, he met up with David Hyde-Lay, who was roommates with Bart’s father during their time at Shawnigan.
Eric ’93 (Copeman’s) and Larry Sui ’96 (Copeman’s)
Eric Sui ’93 (Copeman’s) and Larry Sui ’96 (Copeman’s) visited the School with their families from Hong Kong this summer. They had a tour of the entire campus, including Samuel House, the School’s nearly-completed Grade 8 House, and spent time with Gaynor Samuel and Julia Pollock in Shawnigan’s Admissions office.
Molly Middleton ’98 (Groves’) and Fiona Anderson ’98 (Groves’)
Molly Middleton ’98 (Groves’) and Fiona Anderson ’98 (Groves’) toured campus on August 6th. After the visit, they finished the afternoon with a swim in the lake!
Whitney Donielson ’07 (Kaye’s)
Whitney Donielson ’07 (Kaye’s) and husband, Elon, visited the School during their vacation in BC this summer. While they call Eugene, Oregon home, Whitney had not been back to campus since her brother, Logan Donielson ’11 (Duxbury), graduated.
“Scott Noble proved to be an excellent tour guide,” said Whitney after her visit.
“Scott Noble proved to be an excellent tour guide,” said Whitney after her visit.
Chris Breadner ’93 (Lonsdale’s)
Chris Breadner ’93 (Lonsdale’s) and wife, Tanja Breadner, visited the School this summer. This visit was Chris’ first time returning in many years. Chris owns a heating business and Tanja is working as an interior designer. They have a 9-year-old son and live in Vancouver.
Phillip Schwarz ’01 (Lonsdale’s)
Phillip Schwarz ’01 (Lonsdale’s) and wife, Stephanie, stopped by the School this summer for a visit. He reconnected with his Assistant House Director, Galen Loiselle, and rowing teammate, Jenny Dunbar (nee Rolston) ’01 (Kaye’s).
Alumni Sports Achievements and Accolades
Rugby
Djustice Sears-Duru ’12 (Duxbury), Jack Shaw ’18 (Duxbury), Ciaran Breen ’19 (Lonsdale’s), and Jamin Hodgkins '20 (Lonsdale's) were named to the Canada Senior Men's team to play in the La Vila International Rugby Cup in Spain this month.
Eloise Blackwell ’08 (Groves’), ex-Captain of the New Zealand Black Ferns, played for the Barbarians vs South Africa in Cape Town in September.
Nico Falcon ’20 (Ripley’s) played for Mexico’s Rugby 7s team at the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Langford in August and in the Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile this fall.
Maggie Banks ’19 (Renfrew) played for Canada’s U23 Women’s Rugby team in Boston in July, winning a two-game series versus the USA.
Gerry Atkins ’21 (Groves’) represented Canada U20 Women against USA and Wales in Ottawa in July.
Jeffrey Young ’22 (Duxbury) played for Rugby Canada U20 Men against USA in a two game series in June.
Ava Ference ’23 (Renfrew) represented Team Canada Rugby 7s and received a silver medal at the Youth Commonwealth Games in Trinidad and Tobago this summer.
Thorson Noble ’23 (Lonsdale’s) played with Rugby Canada’s U18 team in July on the European tour.
Dane Siebens ’22 (Copeman’s) and Dylan Thygesen ’23 (Copeman’s) played for Alberta and Connor Arthur ’22 (Duxbury) played for BC in the Canadian U19 National Championship Tournament in Vancouver in July.
Josh Ketch ’23 (Copeman’s) and Kale Jones ’23 (Duxbury) won gold with the BC Rugby U18 boys’s team in the Western Canadian Championships in Calgary in July.
Ciaran Breen ’19 (Lonsdale’s), Guiseppe du Toit ’13 (Duxbury), Nik Hildebrand ’13 (Duxbury), James O’Neill ’15 (Lake’s), Seth Purdey ’17 (Copeman’s), Djustice Sears-Duru ’12 (Duxbury), and Jack Shaw ’18 (Duxbury) all played professional rugby in the MLR this past summer.
Hockey
Ben Berard ’17 (Copeman’s) signed with the Texas Stars of the AHL.
Ashley McCabe ’17 (Renfrew) began her professional career with the Falu Ice Hockey Association in the Swedish city of Falu this year.
JoJo Tanaka-Campbell ’19 (Ripley’s) and Seiya Tanaka-Campbell ’21 (Ripley’s) toured Europe with Yale's Men’s Hockey team.
Rowing
Abby Dyers ’21 (Strathcona) is currently rowing for the Ottawa Rowing Club and came second in the U23 Women's coxed eight, second in the Senior Women’s coxed eight, and third in the Senior Women’s coxless four in the Ontario Rowing Championships.
Soccer
Sophie Miranda ’20 (Groves’) was Ontario University Athletics first team all-star, captain of Queen’s University’s women’s soccer team, and team MVP of the Victoria Highlanders in League 1 BC.
Field Hockey
Casey Crowley ’15 (Strathcona) played field hockey for the NZ Blacksticks in the Olympic qualifying tournament.
Weddings
Rachel Conconi ’11 (Renfrew) married Brian Cross
On July 8, 2023. Alumni in attendance included: Amanda Reid ’09 (Renfrew), Dayle Murray ’09 (Renfrew), Marlie Coward ’09 (Strathcona), Morgan Lee ’10 (Renfrew), Jacqlyn Kernohan ’10 (Renfrew), Alex Conconi ’05 (Copeman’s), Katie Flanagan ’06 (Renfrew), Maddy Hall ’08 (Renfrew), Kelly Rentz ’11 (Renfrew), Chloe Wurm ’11 (Renfrew), Tessa Halleran ’11 (Kaye’s), Lizzie Adams ’12 (Kaye’s), Shannon Kelly ’11 (Groves’), Jenna Hickman ’11 (Groves’), and Dave Hansford ’02 (Duxbury).
Ben Kingstone ’08 (Ripley’s) married Leah Hughes
On September 9, 2023 in Cumberland, BC. Alumni in attendance included: Sarah Kingstone ’07 (Kaye’s), Chris Linn ’08 (Ripley’s), Alex Housser ’08 (Duxbury), Daf Samuel ’08 (Ripley’s), Brendan Cook ’08 (Ripley’s), and Brian Sirkia ’08 (Lonsdale’s).
Births
Simon and Joanne Bruce-Lockhart have become grandparents. Their daughter Kate and her husband Jordan welcomed Nathan Simon deVries Frost on August 10, and everyone is doing well!
Nicholas Vecchio ’06 (Ripley’s) and wife Maja welcomed Jade Olivia Vecchio on August 26.
Graeme Housser ’01 (Duxbury) and wife Ana Dempsey Housser welcomed their second child on April 24. Theo Brian Housser is the baby brother to sister Ivy, and grandson to Steve Housser ’67 (Groves’).
Eric Murdoch ’00 (Lake's) and Kyle Meagher welcomed Griffen Grey Murdoch on October 7. Griffen is grandson to Robert Murdoch ’67 (Lake's) and Nadya Murdoch.
Passages
In this section we recognize those members of our alumni and greater community who have passed away. Please reach out to Rhodri Samuel at rsamuel@shawnigan.ca if you have information or updates you would like to share with our wider community.
Douglas Lunam ’64 (Copeman’s)
Read obituary: https://www.mccallgardens.com/obituaries/douglas-lunam
Jonathan Barrington Beare (former staff)
We acknowledge with respect the Coast Salish Peoples on whose traditional lands and waterways we live, learn and play. We are grateful for the opportunity to share in this beautiful region, and we aspire to healthy and respectful relationships with those who have lived on and cared for these lands for millennia.
Shawnigan Lake School is an independent co-educational boarding school for ages 13 –18 on Canada’s beautiful Pacific Coast. Our diverse, interdisciplinary and innovative programming helps shape the next generation of global leaders.
