Founder's Day 2017

This past weekend marked a particularly poignant Founder’s Day celebration as alumni, students and staff convened to honour C.W. Lonsdale’s legacy and celebrate David Robertson’s 18 years as headmaster, a tenure that is second only to Lonsdale’s.

During the Founder’s Day Chapel service, alumnus and English teacher Jay Connolly ’80 guided the audience through C.W. Lonsdale’s early years as an aimless young man making his way through the pioneer lands of British Columbia. Mr. Connolly identified Lonsdale’s turning point as his work as a tutor in Duncan. Becoming an educator, Mr. Connolly explained, helped anchor Lonsdale and provided him with a mighty sense of purpose—purpose which became Shawnigan Lake School.

Mr. Connolly cited several of Mr. Robertson’s considerable achievements as headmaster, but noted that, “Far more important, he has remained true to Lonsdale’s vision, preserving the non-negotiables that define the nature of the School.”

Two Scottish-themed musical performances rounded out what was an emotional service. Mr. Robertson took to the lectern to remind the alumni and students present to “Reflect your Shawnigan education and your Shawnigan values forever.” He went on to say, “I’m not going to be saying goodbye to anyone anytime soon, I’m just saying thank you,” noting that there was plenty of work still to be done before the end of the year.

In other Founder’s Day action, alumni were involved on the lake, on the fields and on the ice as participants or spectators in several alumni sporting events. Relaxation was provided in the form of the Gold Club Luncheon—which celebrated the induction of members of the Class of 1967—the Performing Arts Cabaret and champagne reception and the Marion Hall dinner. The Museum was open all weekend and students were on hand throughout the duration of the festivities to tour alumni and visitors around campus.

Despite a steady deluge of rain continuing throughout the weekend, spirits remained high as old friends gathered together once again to celebrate the institution that is the site of many of their most treasured memories.