News Detail
Tribute to the Rolstons
A Shawnigan couple retires
An "archetypal Shawnigan couple" was celebrated on Saturday, as the School gathered for a tribute to Don and Lynn Rolston.
Saturday's service featured Peter Legun ’00 (Lake's), a guest speaker who was taught by Mr. Rolston, and is now himself an art teacher on Salt Spring Island. Legun told stories of Don Rolston and his 'ninja powers,' saying "Your contribution, both inside and outside the classroom, is beyond measure."
Grade 12 student Chandler G. also spoke effusively of Mr. Rolston's mentorship, calling him one of the best father figures she has ever had. "You taught me what love is," she stated. "Love is when you know it's not about you."
Another Grade 12, Gemma B., paid tribute to Mrs. Rolston, particularly her stewardship of the sewing Fine Art. Gemma recognized Mrs. Rolston's level of commitment, from the emergency trips to the sewing store to the late nights spent solving issues with various projects. "She even has a tendency to dream about our projects," Gemma laughed, "affirming that her dedication to her students transcends even consciousness."
As well as letters from Abbie Vandivere ’97 (Groves'), and Mark Hobson ’70 (Groves') who is also a former Shawnigan colleague, the congregation heard a musical presentation from Victoria S., who sang Lee Ann Womack's I hope that you dance.
For his part, Headmaster David Robertson said that Don Rolston has been a great comfort to him during his tenure, knowing how Rolston could be counted on to fight, calmly and passionately, for the Fine Arts, and to "calmly and expertly guide this vital component of the School." He also pointed to the key role Lynn Rolston played in the Shawnigan Centennial, as the School's passionate archivist. "The Rolstons are woven into the very fabric of Shawnigan." Mr. Robertson added.
In an emotional farewell, Don and Lynn Rolston spoke about their trepidation when first coming to Shawnigan Lake, and the rough start they experienced. They thanked the students and colleagues who supported them throughout their career, and Don concluded that "The greatest richness has been found not in teaching the art, but in the Shawnigan community as a whole."
The Rolstons spent 36 years at Shawnigan, and raised their three daughters on campus. "Our memories are rich, our hearts are full," Lynn Rolston said tearfully. "Thank you."
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.
