One of the longest-serving members of the Shawnigan family was honoured on Tuesday, as Shawnigan paid tribute to Mr. Stewart Candelaria.

In opening the morning's Headmaster's Gathering, Mr. Robertson referred to the 'timeless' Stewart Candelaria as a "Hugely valued colleague and friend" and the "Ultimate optimist." 

In his 32 years on the Shawnigan faculty, Stewart Candelaria served as a Head of Modern Languages, as the Head of Lake's House (twice), as the Director of Academics, the Dean of faculty and as the Head of Professional Development.  Yet despite his pivotal roles, Candelaria was still known for his affable personality and charm.  "This gentleman shares his heart with you every day of his life,' Mr. Robertson re-iterated.  "He has brought his heart and soul to this School."

A long-time friend and colleague, Mr. Jay Connolly spoke of Candelaria as "One of the most dependable people I have ever met."  Connolly also stressed two characteristics that distinguish Candelaria from others – his tenacity and commitment.

One of Mr. Candelaria's students, Lauren C., also spoke fondly of her advisor, calling him "Truly an inspirational man who has always encouraged a sense of passion in others."  Lauren joked about Candelaria's trademark moustache, and said "Whether he was being supportive or telling me to toughen up, there was never a moment in which Mr. Candelaria didn't know what to say."

For his part, Mr. Candelaria acknowledged some of the people who have been most instrumental during his tenure at the School, including his wife Sharon, many of the individual members of staff, the students, and Headmaster David Robertson.  "The moments of joy I've experienced over these last 32 years are innumerous," he said.  "I couldn't be more lucky … more privileged, to have lived and worked here."