This big family – the administrative, academic, and maintenance staff, the alumni, and the students – has been taking care of our daughter for four years now. It is truly hard to believe how fast these four years have passed, and yet, here we are at graduation.

 

The first day for new students back in 2022 was certainly one of the most difficult days of our lives. After leaving Ash behind at Strathcona House, I remember my wife and I didn’t say a single word during the entire drive back to Victoria.

 

It was totally Ash’s decision to attend boarding school in Canada, and her mother was the one who convinced me of the benefits. She spoke of the independence and success that come from an early-age boarding experience. There is no doubt now that Shawnigan Lake School was the right place. We were struck by the campus at first sight, yet to be honest, I was deeply concerned about being apart from our child at such a young age.

 

But as time passed, it was incredible to witness Ash’s development in every sense: her self-confidence, her maturity, and her self-sufficiency. I believe many other parents here have gone through similar journeys. In this regard, we are deeply grateful for the way Shawnigan recognizes and rewards a student's dedication. In my opinion, this is the most distinctive feature of this school. Despite the ten-hour time difference, we were always in front of the TV for the Chapel live streams, where we could feel this community’s inclusive and supportive atmosphere.

 

Of course, there were plenty of longings and worries along the way – and the occasional crisis, of course. I think we will never forget when Ash realized her passport and study permit were missing on the very last night of her Grade 11 year. We are so grateful to Mrs. Platt for her support and Mr. Brown, who ended up heroically sorting through the recycling bins at a very inconvenient hour.

 

To us, that story is a perfect example of how the staff here are always willing to sacrifice their time to support our kids, whether that's the teachers or the House parents or the maintenance team. We want to thank all the distinguished people of the Shawnigan community who have touched our daughter’s life at some point, just as they have for every student here.

 

To the parents: we have all shared similar long-distance calls and the same quiet houses, but tonight, we share a very justified sense of pride. To the graduates of 2026: you have grown wings in these classrooms. You will always have the advantage of being a part of this incredible community. Congratulations on everything you have achieved.

 

Have a great night, and I wish you all the best for the future. Thank you.