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Rosseau ReviewSpring 2018

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Spring 2018The Advancement Office is thrilled to breathe new life into the Rosseau Review. The Rosseau Review will be published for alumni, students, parents, friends and staff twice a year in digital and print.

Special Thanks To all staff, students, parents and alumni for their contributions.

Design Collective Noun Inc.

Editors Susie Morphet Kim Bissonette Morton ‘88

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I expected the lake...I also expected the towering pines, the fall colours, and the serene snowfalls. And when the spring thaw hits and the wetlands come to life, I expect the black flies.

I expected the cultural diversity, the school spirit, the rich history in this special corner of traditional Anishinabek territory. I expected the successes and challenges, the musical talent, the award-winning athletes and artists, the bright young minds and the occasional sparks of teenager attitude (critical thinking, shall we say).

I knew all these things would be here, as sure as the 4 billion year-old bedrock under this place—the Shield, they call it—presumably protecting Mother Earth in battle, thrusting just enough stony outcrops up through the ground to remind us humans that we are not in charge here.

I could see that the Board of Directors was visionary, the programming was strong, the property was beautiful, the buildings needed work, the brand was clear, and the opportunity was right for my family and me. I also expected that we would be right for Rosseau Lake College.

All these things I expected. But nothing prepared me for the warm welcome.

I arrived prepared to meet and get to know people, to build new relationships, and gradually become an adopted member of the Rosseau Lake College family. Instead, I was embraced with heartfelt sincerity, whisked around on a tour, treated to a history of the place, invited to Crossroads, and generally made to feel like I belonged here. Welcome to Rosseau, everyone seemed to say. Welcome home.

Eight months in, it is my turn to welcome you. Whether you attended this school or not, you are reading this because you are part of the extended RLC family. Welcome to the reincarnated Review. Welcome to the latest stories and photos from this magical lakeside setting in traditional Anishinabek territory. Welcome back to Rosseau Lake College. Welcome home.

Robert Carreau, M.Ed., M.Sc., Ph.D. Head of School

Message from the Head of School

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Board of Directors Greg Swift ‘88Mr. Swift, Class of 1988, has served on the Board of Directors of Rosseau Lake College since 2010, and as Chair since August 2015. He is a graduate of RLC, 1982-1988, the first day student to attend what was then Rosseau Lake School. He is a parent of an RLC alumnus and former President of the Alumni Association. Mr. Swift is an Executive Software Consultant working in various capacities with technology and application based companies to launch solutions and grow market share. He is passionate about the outdoors and lives in Muskoka with his wife and son. Mr. Swift’s daughter is currently in her 3rd year at Wilfrid Laurier University.

Joe AbiDaoudMr. AbiDaoud is currently the Vice President Information Technology at Yamana Gold Inc. A senior executive with an extensive background in technology, he has served with companies in energy, consulting, telecommunications, and banking sectors. Joe holds diplomas in Engineering, Applied Information Technology and a Master of Science from Wilfred Laurier University. Mr. AbiDaoud is an advocate for ensuring children have the best education opportunities to develop into world class leaders. He is a native of Halifax, Nova Scotia, father to three young children and joined the Board as an expert on technology related matters.

Message from the BoardThe Rosseau Lake College Board of Directors is a dedicated and diverse group of individuals that volunteer their time to support the continued success of the College. The Board is comprised of parents, alumni and ‘independents’ from a variety of backgrounds and professions. We are very fortunate to have such a broad span of professions represented, including Legal, Financial, IT, HR, Academia and Social Work.

On June 17, 2017 we celebrated the 50th Anniversary of Rosseau Lake College. We are one of the few small, independent boarding schools that remain in operation in Canada. The school continues to thrive with a combination of day students from local communities and a diverse boarding population from over 10 countries. RLC has a proud tradition of partnership with the local indigenous communities and we continue to develop our Seven Generations Program to better understand and include indigenous traditions in our school community and curriculum. We are proud of the diversity in our student community, especially considering our size, and we believe this diversity is extremely valuable. Our students not only receive a top-notch education but they also receive enriching multicultural experiences.

The Board has been very engaged and active this past year. A few of our key initiatives in 2017 include; the selection of a new Head of School, assistance with the 50th Gala Celebrations, a revision of the Board Bylaws, the commencement of a Capital Program and the recruitment of new Board members. The Board formally holds meetings six times a year throughout the school calendar to review progress of programs and provide thought leadership and guidance to the Head of School. We have three committees including Governance and Heads Review, the Capital Committee and the Finance Committee. These committees provide direct engagement in the key areas of governance, development and innovation.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank our Directors who are, like all of us, extremely busy individuals yet generously give their time and support to serve the College. We are always looking for additional Directors to ensure the vibrancy and continuity of the Board. If you are interested please do not hesitate to contact me.

I would also like to thank our parents, alumni and staff. Without you RLC, no matter how well governed, would not be successful. Thanks for your generous support of time and financial assistance, especially as we embark on an ambitious capital plan to revitalize our campus. As the adage goes “many hands makes light work”. With the engagement of the entire RLC community we will continue to ensure Rosseau is well poised for another great 50 years!

Greg Swift ‘88 Chair of the Board

GREG SWIFT AND JOE SEGAGRAM AT CAIS HEADS AND CHAIRS CONFERENCE, WINNIPEG OCTOBER 2017

“We are proud of the diversity in our student community, especially considering our size, and we believe this diversity is extremely valuable.”

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Kayla Campagna ‘10 Ms. Campagna, Class of 2010, graduated from the University of Guelph in 2014 with a B.Sc. in Zoology then headed to the University of Guelph – Ridgetown Campus for an additional 2 years, pursuing her dream of working with animals. She graduated with honors in 2016 with an Associate’s Diploma in Veterinary Technology. She currently works as a Registered Veterinary Technician at a veterinary hospital in Toronto. Ms. Campagna’s journey at RLC began as a day student in Grade 7. She was raised on the shores of Lake Rosseau and knows what it means to live and learn in Muskoka. Despite her new life in the big city, Ms. Campagna’s unwavering affinity for nature has kept her a regular visitor of both Muskoka and RLC. She looks back at her time at RLC with deep fondness, and is grateful for the opportunity to give back to the RLC community.

Michael Hatton Mr. Hatton was employed by Humber College in Toronto for three decades, including eight years as the Dean of Business and eight years as Vice President, Academic. Mr. Hatton is a consultant for the Canadian government and other governments and funding organizations in the design, management and evaluation of international development projects focusing on job creation and economic growth. This includes extensive work in Southeast Asia and Africa. He holds an M.B.A. from York University and a Ph.D. from the University of Toronto. Michael and his wife live in Muskoka and have two daughters and four grandchildren. Mr. Hatton has served on the Board since 2016.

Mark Holbrook Mr. Holbrook is the Chief Financial Officer of Kruger Products and KP Tissue Inc., a public company on the Toronto Stock Exchange. He is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CA) and holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Wilfrid Laurier University. Mark joined the RLC Board in April 2016 and is the Vice-Chair of the Finance Committee and Secretary of the Board. Mark is married and resides in Toronto, ON. His daughter graduated in 2015 from the Queen’s University School of Business and is also obtaining her CPA designation.

Christine Holmes Ms. Holmes is a lawyer and founder of CLH Professional Corporation which provides business focused, cost effective legal services to general counsels and senior executives of mid-size to global companies. Ms. Holmes is also the Vice-Chair of the Algonquin Family Health Team Board of Directors. Her husband is a graduate of RLC and her daughter is an RLC alumnus. During her time as an RLC parent, Ms. Holmes was an active member of the Parent Guild. Ms. Holmes serves on the Board of Directors as Chair of the Governance Committee. She resides in Muskoka with her husband and children, Asha and Isaiah.

Nancy MacDonald Exel Ms. MacDonald Exel is a Chartered Professional Accountant and the CFO of Kinectrics Inc. She has served as Treasurer since joining the Board in 2015. Ms. MacDonald Exel has provided leadership in implementing a structured financial planning and reporting systems at the College. She worked closely with the Board over the past several years to improve the school’s financial stability. Ms. MacDonald has three grown children and one adorable five month old grandson.

John Neretlis Mr. Neretlis holds an MBA from Queen’s University, is a Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) and a Family Enterprise Advisor (FEA). John serves on the Board of the Queen’s University Alma Mater Society and is also an advisor in the development of Queen’s University’s Generational Wealth program. Mr. Neretlis is a current parent and uncle to five RLC alumni. He joined the Board in January 2016, and currently serves as Vice-Chair, and Chair of the Capital Committee. John is a Family Enterprise Advisor specializing in executing succession strategies including professional development of the Next Generation, communication and facilitation and governance structures. Mr. Neretlis resides in Toronto with his wife Susan, son Matthew ‘19 and daughter Kate.

Lena Patten Mrs. Patten has served on the Board of Directors of Rosseau Lake College since 2012. She holds a Bachelor of Applied Science, Art and Child Studies from the University of Guelph and is currently the Owner and Designer of HillTop Interiors in the Village of Rosseau. She also servers on the Foundation Board for the Parry Sound Hospital. Mrs. Patten is deeply invested in the success and wellbeing of the local community. She participates in various local committees and runs children’s programs at the Rosseau Community Centre. Mrs. Patten is the parent of two RLC graduates and is a past member of the RLC Parent Guild. She believes in a community and leadership based approach to shaping young men and women as an important foundation for learning.

Shane Tabobondung Mr. Tabobondung is an Anishinaabe (Ojibway) who lives with his family on Wasauksing First Nation Indian Reservation, an island located on Georgian Bay. He is former Chief of his community and a long-time advocate for Education and Social Justice. He is currently manager of Mental Health and Addictions services for the regions on-reserve and urban population in Muskoka and Parry Sound. He also teaches cultural competency at Canadore College. Mr. Tabobondung is a current parent as well as the parent of two RLC alumni. He is honoured to be part of the Board and brings his unique perspective and experiences to contribute, reconcile and strengthen the relationship that the College has with its Indigenous population of the traditional territory.

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Replacing Staff Housing

The two existing staff cottages behind the rugby field, Bayview and Lakeview, have been demolished to make room for three new staff housing units. Two will be connected two-bedroom cottages, with shared services. The third will be a three-bedroom family unit. One of the Board’s first priorities in campus renewal has been to offer high-quality housing options for staff and faculty. It is exciting for Rosseau Lake College to be in a position to take steps towards that vision.

17'-3"15'-5"

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NOTES: 1300 Sq. Ft. FAMILY HOME STEEL PILE STRUCTURAL FOUNDATION PINNED

TO BEDROCK OR TORQUED TO REFUSAL CAPE COD SIDING 8.5 FT CEILINGS CEILING: R60 INSULATION WALLS AND FLOOR: R40 INSULATION 30 YR ARCHITECTURAL SHINGLE ROOF TRIPLE GLAZED WINDOWS AND DOORS HRV MIN. 92% EFFICIENCY HIGH EFFICIENCY ELECTRIC BASEBOARD HEAT

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SCALE: 14" = 1'-0"

ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGEBRIGHT STREET, ROSSEAU

DATE: 03-14-18 A - 1

REVIEW ONLY

RLC is Getting a Face Lift

Rosseau Lake College is about to embark on the most ambitious capital campaign in our school’s history. We have partnered with CS&P Architects Inc., one of Canada’s leading architectural practices, to design innovative spaces that inspire learning in one of Canada’s most pristine outdoor environments.

The plan will be developed in extensive collaboration with our community. CS&P is in the process of compiling feedback from online surveys and interactive meetings with current students, staff, and alumni. Thank you to everyone who participated in these discussions and completed the surveys.

Some initial items identified in Rosseau Lake College’s expansion and renovation plan are:

• New student accommodations will be added to increase boarder capacity.

• New science labs and learning spaces will be created that support RLC’s unique value proposition: Nature is Our Learning Lab; Discovery is Our Culture.

• The main entrance will be enhanced to provide guests with a clear idea of where to go when they arrive on campus.

• Every effort will be made to meet green building standards.

Campus Renewal Projects

Please visit www.rosseaulakecollege.com/give today to make a contribution to these important and much needed capital projects.

The Board of Directors and Head of School are looking forward to sharing the details of the Capital Campaign and fundraising targets in the near future. Many alumni have already generously offered financial support as well as volunteering time and resources. Major capital projects at independent schools, such as the construction of new buildings or the renovation of existing facilities, depend entirely on fundraising. These necessary upgrades will be a big financial investment towards the future of RLC.

We thank you in advance for your donations towards this exciting endeavour.

The Parent Guild is a small but enthusiastic group of current parents who contribute in many ways to make special events and life at RLC a success. We participate on Opening Day by meeting and greeting new families and volunteer at campus events like Fall Colours, Winter Carnival and the Spring Arts Festival. The Parent Guild also hosts one fundraiser a year.

In recent years, the Parent Guild has raised money for these key campus items: residential improvements, electricity generator, science equipment, hub renovation, and the outdoor climbing wall.

This year the Parent Guild hosted a Silent Auction during RLC’s 4th Annual Spring Arts Festival at Muskoka Woods on April 14. Just over $15,000 was raised and will be used towards repairing the Bridle Path and Trails along RLC’s beautiful waterfront, donations towards these efforts will still be accepted at www.rosseaulakecollege.com/give or by contacting Susie for more information at susiemorphet@rosseaulakecollege.com.

Thank you to our members Fiona Blair, Lavinia Carreau, Judy Gagnon, Judy Umphrey, Harmony Redsky ‘97, Rose Sowa, Judy Spears and Jessica Tickle.

I would also like to personally thank Fiona Blair for the time and energy she donated to the Parent Guild for the past six years. Fiona has acted as both Secretary and President since 2012 when her sons Chris and Taylor started at RLC. This will be her last year serving on the committee as her son Taylor is graduating in June.

Sincerely,

Christine Corbett President, Parent Guild 2018

Ice House Outdoor Education Building

As part of the campus renewal plan, funds raised at the 50th Anniversary gala are being used to renovate the yellow staff residence

near the maintenance sheds at the entrance to campus. Built around 1917 as an “ice house” for dairy and other cold storage during the Eaton years, it was later renovated as a staff home. This building will now be restored to its original purpose, with new roof, siding, windows and doors to become the Ice House Outdoor Education building.

Perry Building Upgrade

The other major capital project approved by the Board is the re-designing and replacement of the Perry Building roof to allow for better heat retention and ventilation, ultimately prolonging its life and keeping students more comfortable in there during the winter months.

ROSE SOWA, JUDY SPEARS, FIONA BLAIR, JESSICA TICKLE, AND CHRISTINE CORBETT.

Parent Guild

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Closing Ceremonies 2017 It is hard to believe our 50th Closing Day was almost a year ago. What a truly remarkable celebration. As an RLC alumnus and Chairman of the Board, it was nice to see the students commemorate their accomplishments and reflect on their time at RLC and the many memories that will stay with them for a lifetime. Congratulations to the Class ‘17 and welcome to the Rosseau Lake College Alumni Association.

Our 50th Closing Day was also important to me because I was fortunate to honour Lance Postma for the significant contributions he made to school life while serving in a number of capacities at Rosseau Lake College. Lance started as a faculty member at RLC in 1997, serving the last 7 years as Head of School. Lance and his wife Kim were dedicated and passionate about the success of Rosseau Lake College. I would like to once again thank Lance for his commitment to Rosseau Lake College; it was a pleasure working together.

Greg Swift ‘88 Chair of the Board

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50th Anniversary CelebrationOn behalf of the 50th Steering Committee, I would like to thank each and every one of you who participated in the 50th

Anniversary Gala celebrations. With over 350 attendees, this event qualifies as the largest event ever held on campus, and is our new benchmark for bringing the RLC community together.

The festivities began on Friday at the JW Marriott as alumni from all over the world gathered for an impromptu warm up pre-party. It continued through the 50th Closing Ceremonies on Saturday afternoon, the Gala Celebration Saturday evening and ended in the wee hours of Sunday morning back at the Marriott.

It was amazing to reconnect with so many alumni, former faculty and staff. A special thank you to Tania Crowley from TLC Events, who orchestrated the on-campus celebration and Crossroads Restaurant in Rosseau for providing the best meal at a large banquet that I have ever experienced. Thank you Bill Morris ‘73 for taking on the daunting job of MC in front of a rowdy crowd and Phil Allan ‘71 for stepping in at the last minute as the best auctioneer ever!

Some highlights for me include: the “a little rain never hurt anyone” attitude during the torrential rain storm, the live auction—in particular David Hodgetts portaging a canoe into the Gala tent, the incredible entertainment provided by Two for the Show and alumnus James D’Adamo ‘84 rocking out to Let’s Shake by Teenage Head with the band.

I would like to thank the Steering Committee: Bill Morris ‘73, Jeff Mitchell ‘72, David Allan ‘84, Jonathan Alderson ‘87, Kim Bissonette Morton ‘88, Fiona Blair, current parent, Eleanor Cole, former faculty and Lance Postma, Head of School, for their hard work and dedication to ensure the event was an overwhelming success.

I also want to thank our extremely generous Table Sponsors: White Owl (anonymous sponsor), Phil Allan ‘71, Lionel deMercado ‘76, John ‘92 and Tracy Di Cesare, David Allan ‘84, Bernice Bissonette & Family, Eleanor Cole, Richard Foyston, Early 80’s Alumni (James Gallagher ‘82, Mark Dingman ‘82, Bill Bremner ‘83, Tom Benson ‘83, Andy White ‘83, David Straiton ‘83, James D’Adamo ‘84), Nancy MacDonald Exel, Jeff Mitchell ‘72, Bill Morris ‘73, Brad O’Neil ‘88. Wenonah Boat Sponsors, and Event Sponsors: Eric Carlson ‘92, Jon Green ‘87, JJ. Long ‘92, Derek Goodchild ‘90, Lena Patten, Kim Ward & Chris Grossman, Christopher Blair ‘16, Taylor Blair ‘18, Fiona Blair, Hammond Transportation, Muskoka Brewery, Mosquito Buzz, Flow Water, Steve Lowe, Brock Tudhope, Selby Harris ‘97.

It has been a pleasure and a true honor to lead this group of individuals. Like many of you, RLC has had a profound impact on my life, and I will be forever grateful.

Sincerely yours, John DiCesare ‘92 Chair, 50th Steering Committee

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Celebrating 50 Years

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“What a great party celebrating 50 years! It was terrific to see so many of you. Lots of hugs, photo ops etc. Congratulations to MC Bill Morric, Fiona Blair for the book, Kim Bissonette, Greg Swift, Chair of the Board and the Headmaster Lance Postma. I plan to be at the next on in 25 years!”

– Greg Devenish ’71, Former Headmaster

“Dear Organizing Committee, guests of honour, invitees, attendees, and all the other more rambunctious rabble that represented my era, THANK YOU! The laughter and memories generated by that evening are priceless!”

– David Watt, Former Faculty 1977-82

“ ”“What a great party! RLC thanks for all the memories in the log cabin! It was wonderful to see friends from so long ago. The restored 67 Auston Healy of Henry Watsons that Chris Shainthill brought was amazing to see again. What a super school to have been associated with. Thanks to everyone for doing such a fantastic 50th reunion.”

– Greg Roy ’73

“Hats off to you and everyone who made this past weekend as special as the 25th!! Another trip down memory lane and a moment in time that will be forever cherished by everyone who attended!! Thank you!!”

– Noah Waisberg ’92

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Alumni Growing StrongDear RLC alumni, students, staff and parents,

2018 is an auspicious and exciting year when we will grow stronger! Looking back, last summer over 300 alumni returned to the RLC campus to celebrate the school’s 50th anniversary. A HUGE thank you from the Alumni Association to all of the alumni who attended. It was GREAT to see you again!

One important result is that the Alumni Association has now reconnected with more than 1000 former students, staff, and headmasters! Old friendships have been rekindled and new connections made. We’re growing strong!

We have a rich history that your school’s Alumni Association is working hard to preserve: In his book Kawandag…A Story of Changing Muskoka, Derek Stott chronicles the fascinating history of the Rosseau Lake College campus. RLC’s roots can be traced back to the Free Grants and Homestead Act of 1868 when four Ditchburn brothers left the bustle and grime of London, England for the free land available for immigrants to Canada. The Ditchburns loved the granite and pine of Ontario’s near north and claimed what is now RLC’s campus. They called it “The Pines.” I encourage you to continue reading this fascinating history on the RLC website at www.rosseaulakecollege.com/history to learn which building, still on campus, Lady Eaton of the iconic Canadian Eaton family once used as a sewing room and how the RLC campus was previously a Muskoka resort and hotel. What legacy will you leave in the next chapter of this rich history?

Presently, in 2018 the Alumni Association (RLCAA) is looking forward to a strong future. The alumni voice was represented well in the school’s future planning when a group met with the school’s campus redevelopment consultants on February 21. Here are other steps we’ve taken in the past six months:

• We formed a new all-star Executive Committee and would like to welcome Daniel Holmes VanHelsing ’89 (Vice President), Taylor Hennig ‘12 (Secretary), and Susie Morphet (RLC Staff, Treasurer) leading our amazing executive committee members: Kim Morton ’88 (RLC staff), Martin Birthelmer ‘87, Brian Betsworth ‘90, Brett Evans ‘81, Darren LeClair ‘84, Barb Barclay ’98, Pat Hagarty ‘06, JP Alloza ’17 and Thomas Shaw ’17 (Class Reps). Class reps from other years are also being recruited. Please join me in thanking these alumni volunteers who are working hard for you.

• With the aim to have more voices represented in the Alumni Association, we also added several ex-officio positions including the Headmaster, Chair of the Board of Directors, Kayla Campagna ’10 (BOD Rep), Christine Corbett (parent, Parent Guild Rep), Cheryl Bissonette (Faculty Rep), and Fiona Blair (Grad. Parent, Parent Rep). I would also like to acknowledge many other alumni from across Canada (shout out to Halifax and Vancouver!) who have put up their hands to volunteer time. Thank you all!

• The Executive is already hard at work on several projects that we believe will add value to graduates post-RLC. The following working committees have been formed:

• Peer2Peer “Campus Connect” Program Committee: Designing and launching this exciting program that pairs recent RLC grads in first year at a college or university with a fellow RLC alumni attending the same school in their 2nd, 3rd, or 4th year who acts as a mentor to guide and support them through their first year and beyond for maximum post-highschool success.

• Professional Network & Mentoring Committee: Designing and launching an online networking tool for alumni to meet fellow RLC grads in their industry and career field for mentoring and professional collaboration.

• Work Weekend Committee: Organizing the annual traditional Work with Friends weekend to revitalize and preserve the historical RLC campus.

• Annual Golf Classic Committee: The centrepiece of RLC’s alumni events, this committee is planning the biggest golf event in RLC’s history—this year in Toronto. Sign up early. You won’t want to miss this spectacular day!

A first in RLC history, in January, with leadership from Susie Morphet of the Advancement Office, hundreds of alumni received a comprehensive survey via email to get a clearer understanding of what school issues matter to alumni. If you haven’t already received and returned a completed survey, please contact Susie as soon as possible to be included in this seminal research.

In the near future your RLCAA plans to form an International Alumni Students Committee, among other special initiatives. If you are an alumni, current student, parent, or staff member who feels excited by any of these projects, please contact Kim Bissonette Morton or myself Jonathan Alderson to join one of the working committees. The more the merrier!

Rosseau Lake College stands strong! And you, our alumni, including parents and family, are a vital part of this strength. Please join hands with us by volunteering some time, completing the survey we recently emailed you, participating in an upcoming event like Work Weekend and the Annual Golf Classic. Your participation matters.

Thank you for standing strong with RLC!

Best wishes for a successful 2018.

Jonathan Alderson ‘87 President, RLC Alumni Association

Fall ColoursJONATHAN ALDERSON ‘87 & MARTIN BIRTHELMER ‘87

Fall ColoursHARMONY ‘97 AND BAY RICE MONASTYRSKI, CURRENT STUDENT

Fall Colours Alumni Field Hockey GameSEAN WALLMUELLER ‘17, DOUG LEDGER ‘16, CHRIS BLAIR ‘16, CHERYL BISSONETTE, CHRISTINA BISSONETTE, PATRICK HAGARTY ‘06, ASHLEY CATHRALL ‘05, KATEBE KIDD ‘90, KAYLA CAMPAGNA ‘10, TESSA HARROWER FITTER ‘10, CAROLYN PATTERSON ‘88, MUSONDA KIDD ‘89

Katie Tsuyuki’s Quest for Korea Gala WILLIAM PUGLIESE, KATIE TSUYUKI, DAN FRENETTE, PAT NEWTON AND SHERRY CAMPBELL.

A Very Successful Mentoring DayBACK ROW: ROBERT CARREAU, HEAD OF SCHOOL, BOB MATHESON, HEAD CHEF, ROB REGAN ‘76, PATRICK HAGARTY ‘06, KIM BISSONETTE MORTON ‘88, CRAIG NAKAMOTO ‘88, DARREN LECLAIR ‘84, JOHN SHELLY ‘69 FRONT ROW: STEPH WILSON ‘09, HAZEL WHELDON ‘85, KAYLA CAMPAGNA ‘10, TAYLOR HENNIG ‘12, JONATHAN ALDERSON ‘87

Fall Colours in the RACTESSA HARROWER FITTER ‘10, PATRICK HAGARTY ‘06, KAYLA CAMPAGNA ‘10, CHRISTINA BISSONETTE LINES, MUSONDA KIDD ‘89, CAROLYN PATTERSON ‘88, KATEBE KIDD ‘90, ASHLEY CATHRALL ‘05, MOHAMED TAVALLOEV ‘17,SEAN WALLMUELLER ‘17, STU FARGHER ‘05, JONATHAN ALDERSON ‘87, KIM BISSONETTE MORTON ‘88, MARTIN BIRTHELMER ‘87, OLIVER

Christmas at the Miller TavernDAVID FROMSTEIN ‘76, JONATHAN ALDERSON ‘87, JEFF MITCHELL ‘71, BRYAN GOODERHAM ’75 , JAMES CUMMINGS ‘73, CHRISTOPHER SAINTHILL ‘72, KEVIN BOOTH ‘76, DARREN LECLAIR ‘84, SUSIE MORPHET, RLC ADVANCEMENT LEAD, AL-NOOR WISSANJI ‘79, ELINOR COLE, FORMER FACULTY & DIRECTOR, CHRIS MACLEAN ‘75, ROBERT CARREAU, HEAD OF SCHOOL, DAVID ALLAN ‘84, LIONEL DE MERCADO ‘76, ROB REGAN ‘76, KIM BISSONETTE MORTON ‘88

Alumni Gathering at UWOATTENDEES: STEPHEN TAKACS ‘16, TAYLOR THOMSON ‘17, JASMINE KWOK ‘14, TORI MADDEN ‘16 AND GABRIELLE MOQUIN ‘16

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Discovery Days

INQUIRY-BASED & EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING AT ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

by Eric Daigle, Academic Lead

Introduction

In its 50th anniversary year, Rosseau Lake College has launched a whole-school personalized learning initiative related to our strategic goals and mission: To graduate students with a strong personal brand, through a culture that is rich in discovery. After 18 months of development, faculty and stakeholder brainstorming, surveys and pedagogical research, the team iterated and designed an innovative approach to timetabling and program delivery:

DISCOVERY DAYS are non-traditional days of learning (12 Fridays per semester) that support RLC’s unique value proposition—Nature is Our Learning Lab; Discovery is Our Culture.

History

When Rosseau Lake College was founded in 1967, it was symbolically modelled after two internationally esteemed independent schools: Geelong Grammar School, Timbertop Campus in Australia and Gordonstoun in Scotland. Both of these co-educational boarding schools paved the way for experiential and place-based education while maintaining traditional values and academic rigour. Being located outside of urban areas and steeped in outdoor natural environments, both schools challenge conventional learning methods by allowing students an opportunity to experience small community life and learn real-world skills through local service and activity. RLC continues this rich tradition of values-based education in a unique small-community environment with our DISCOVERY DAYS.

The three learning components of this timetable change are: Design Time, Flex Time, and Active Time.

What is Design Time?

Instead of spending two weeks at the end of a semester quickly pulling together aspects of a rushed project, students at RLC spend the entire semester following their big idea questions through iterative discovery and prototyping stages. At any point along this process, the student may reach an impasse or gain interest in a similar topic based on their original idea. Just as in real life, they learn to adapt these ideas into new discoveries which then lead to further research and the eventual creation of unique end products.

A key aspect of DISCOVERY DAY’S academic component, Design Time, is to reinforce the intent and purposeful use of each space for the needs of individual student projects, called Discovery Projects.

What is Flex Time?

Just as the name suggests, Flex Time will be an adjustable component of our Winter Term and will have a variety of purposes. This year, the Flex Time program will be organised using mentor groups working on Passion Projects.

What makes RLC different amongst established independent schools is our small size. Vertical integration happens often and students find friendship groups from all grade levels.

As a group, the mentors will facilitate a design process over 10 weeks. Instead of achieving marks, students will be assessed in their development of Future Skills (Teamwork, Information Management, Self-Management, Critical Thinking, Networking, Global Citizenship, etc.). In the spring, RLC aims to host a Discovery Fair in which the most successful personal passion projects will be shared with the whole school and badges of Mastery in these essential skills will be awarded.

What is Active Time?

In the Fall and Spring, Rosseau Lake College benefits from its pristine location on the shore of Lake Rosseau in Muskoka. From the outset of its founding, RLC has aligned educational programming towards outdoor experiences. Active Time gives us the occasion for whole school immersion into our rich natural environment.

· an interest· a passion· a problem to solve· a social issue to explore· empathy with a group· an audience to reach out to· a product idea

What is a Discovery Project?

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OuttripsBy Graeme Smith, Outdoor EducationThe 2017 fall outtrips were a great success. The two weeks of trips were blessed with beautiful warm weather, bluebird skies and absolutely no rain at all. It was the perfect storm for an excellent beginning to RLC’s school year.

The grade 7/8 class ventured to the Canadian Ecology Centre where they experienced a variety of experiential programs and activities geared towards building community and getting in touch with our historical past. The students learned about the fur traders as they paddled along the Mattawa River, reconnected with the First Nations people as they heard stories about the great bear in the night sky and even used their best howls to try and communicate with the wolf population in the surrounding area. What an amazing introduction to RLC’s Outdoor Education program.

The grade 9s had the opportunity to spend four days in the beautiful Killbear Provincial Park. The students experienced first hand how the glaciers retreated and carved out the beautiful geological wonders that embrace Georgian Bay. The students also had the extremely rare privilege of finding a baby Massasauga Rattlesnake, during a species at risk hike, that was likely born only weeks earlier.

Our grade 10s spent four days caving and climbing along the Niagara escarpment, an experience not for the faint of heart. Here the students learned crucial life skills such as teamwork, trust and the development of camaraderie. Along with these important life skills the students developed their hard skills by learning to tie a number of different knots, how to belay their peers as they rappel into caves and climb the cliffs of the escarpment. Most importantly the students learned about themselves and how they can improve their character development by stepping out of their comfort zones, resulting in increased confidence and self-esteem.

The grade 11s spent four days sea kayaking on the unforgiving Georgian Bay, but were blessed with ideal weather conditions resulting in an extremely enjoyable time. The students gained strength by paddling long distances and learned to work as a team as they established camp-site routines. As the group circumnavigated Franklin Island, they learned about the great lakes and had opportunities to paddle alongside their peers and connect in a meaningful manner. The warm weather even allowed for a day spent at a nearby beach swimming and enjoying each other’s company.

The grade 12s had the privilege of paddling down the currents of the French River this year over the span of four days. For some this was quite an exhilarating experience as paddling white-water was completely new for them. The warm temperatures made the seemingly harsh rapids a little more inviting as they plunged through them. Their strength was also tested with a number of challenging portages and yet they were rested as they sat riverside in the evening cooking meals over a hot fire under the autumn sun.

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Fall Colours Weekend Fall Colour Weekend at Rosseau Lake College was a huge success. The weekend festivities began with the annual Terry Fox Run. Despite the cold, wind and rain, the entire school participated in this great charity event that started at the village docks and ended on campus seven kilometres later. The trails were in top shape thanks to the hard work of our maintenance crew, Jim Moring, Jimmy Tobin and Mr. Len Beaulne.

On Saturday, the skies cleared and we had a full roster of activities including hikes, canoe and kayak tours, face painting and pumpkin carving. Bob Matheson and his kitchen staff put together a great harvest lunch that parents, alumni, students and staff thoroughly enjoyed. The afternoon was filled with excitement starting with the RLC sr. soccer team taking on the visiting Albert College team. This was followed by a celebration of 31 years of field hockey at RLC in an alumni vs. student game. Thank you to Martin Birthelmer ’87 and Alumni Association President, Jonathan Alderson ’87 for helping plan the day.

On Sunday over 50 golfers participated in the RLC Annual Golf Classic at ClubLink’s Rocky Crest Golf Resort on Lake Joseph. The weather and course were outstanding as were the golfers that joined us for this excellent RLC tradition. Congratulations to this year’s top team: alumnus Bretten Roissl ’11, Al Roissl, Steve Ryan and Steve Ryan Jr. Keep an eye on the alumni Facebook page for details on the 2018 Golf Classic.

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Recognition of Skill Lorenzo Diaz & Maggie Myer

Recognition of Leadership Robi Pardo & Catherine Spears

Recognition of Personal Growth Zac Conn & Ronan Artuso

Artistic Leader Cassidy Wise & Lily Hu

Recognition of Skill Lanlan Wang & Rita Zhu

Recognition of Leadership Jordyn Fountain & Xela Lloyd

Recognition of Personal Growth Zac Conn & Cathy Gao

Artistic Leader Melissa Lloyd & Kexin Song

Recognition of Skill Connor Gan & Bay Redsky

Recognition of Leadership Emma Clendenan

Recognition of Personal Growth Caron Wroe & Rodrigo Sanchez

Artistic Leader Emma Clendenan

Recognition of Leadership Charlotte Richardson & Ayah Jaghoub

Artistic Leader Reid Istvan

Recognition of Skill LanLan Wang & Zheyuan Liu

Recognition of Personal Growth Ryan Li & David Harris

ROSCARs and Winter Sports Awards

Music with Miss Magee

Music with Miss Magee

Media Communications with Mr. Daigle, Mr. Smart, Miss Sheppard and Mr. Farooq

Visual Arts ROSCARs with Miss Smith

Varsity Junior Basketball, Coach Mr. Smart

MVP—Matthew Criswick; MIP—Ryan Umphrey; Coach’s—Chris Gan; Letter—Connor Gan & Chris Gan

Varsity Nordic Skiing, Coaches Ms. Magee & Mr. Kirkpatrick

MVP—Audrey-Anna Colson; MIP—Andy Niu; Coach’s—Andrew Rossing

Varsity Volleyball, Coaches Mr. Smith & Ms. Pakozdi

MVP—Emma Seddon; MIP—Kexin Song; Coach’s—Esther Wason; Letter—Melissa Lloyd Ibarra

Varsity Snowboarding, Coaches Ms. Smith, Mr. McGilvray & Ms. Rand

Jr. MVP—Carter Corbett; MVP—Aurora Corbett; Jr. MIP—Lorenzo Diaz; MIP—Nini Hind; Jr. Coach’s—Jesse Fountain; Coach’s—Matheus Aquino Rabello; Letter—Taylor Blair

Varsity Senior Basketball, Coaches Mr. Gilbert & Ms. Windrem

MVP—Nani Chen; MIP—Kevin Li; Coach’s—Awwal Oyetunde; Letter—Nani Chen & Awwal Oyetunde

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Winter FormalFEBRUARY 23, 2018

“With so many people helping out and going above and beyond what was expected, formal this year was spectacular. It was a collective effort between Student Council and Arts Council.

The theme this year was Valentine’s day with many minute-to-win-it games, there was never a dull moment. Everyone looked amazing, and it was definitely a night to remember.”

— Esther Wason Grade 12

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Winter at RLCRosseau Lake College is the perfect backdrop for epic outdoor adventures! “Winter at RLC is beautiful. The snow adds to the

‘outdoor’ charisma of the campus. We do a number of activities that emphasize the time of year. Definitely my favourite winter season in a while!”

— Jack Whiteside Grade 11

Winter CarnivalFEBRUARY 24, 2018

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Winter Carnival took place Saturday February 24th, and while the weather wasn’t so wintery, it was a fun filled day. The sun was shining bright late in the afternoon when 13 brave students, 3 staff and 1 alumna jumped in icy Lake Rosseau to continue the polar bear dip tradition. Other traditions that were highlights of the day included log sawing, nail driving, road hockey and a campfire. The day also featured an open mic coffee house showcasing the talent of our RLC community, which was a great way to warm up in the afternoon.

“I’m so glad I took the time to come back to campus for Winter Carnival this year! It’s easy to forget where we’ve come from. Visiting with old friends, meeting new ones, and of course participating in road hockey & a sunny polar bear dip definitely reminded me that RLC is a community I’m blessed to be a part of.”

— Gabrielle Moquin ‘16

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Remembering Maurice East FOUNDER OF ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

On September 10, Maury East passed away at the age of 93. He leaves behind his wife Annabelle, his two daughters and three sons, including RLC alumnus John East ‘71.

While Mr. East is best known for the influential role he played in Killarney, Mr. East is important to Rosseau Lake College because he was a co-founder. In 1963, Roger Morris and Maury East purchased Kawandag Lodge from the Margesssons. It continued as a resort hotel for a couple of summers before Mr. East conceived a plan to transform the Kawandag into a frontier post of the time period around 1812.

Fort Kawandag was very successful in its first season with more than 28,000 visitors but the second season was not as successful. It was in the spring of 1966 that a plan was proposed whereby Kawandag would become a small independent school. “Certainly the facilities were present—accommodation, dining room space, and plenty of room for a school to grow and offer an outdoor emphasis to its curriculum.” Kawandag...A Story of Changing Muskoka, D.V. Stott

Maury and Annabelle were very excited to attend the 50th Anniversary Celebration of Rosseau Lake College but had to cancel at the last minute because of Maury’s declining health. Maury was represented at the 50th by his son John ‘71. On September 30, 2017, the family hosted a wake at Killarney Mountain Lodge to celebrate Maury’s life. Thank you Bill Morris ‘73 for attending the service on behalf of your family and Rosseau Lake College.

50th Anniversary Year Book

This 152-page hard cover book has been created by Fiona Blair and published at McLaren Press in Gravenhurst. The price of this limited edition book is $50. Shipping is available.

Rosseau’s 50th Anniversary Book is a Lighthouse Yearbook that covers the history of the school from the Ditchburn’s “The Pines” homestead, to Fort Kawandag, to the “boys in green blazers” of Rosseau Lake School, to the co-educational and internationally acclaimed RLC of today! Traditions of Outtrips, Fall Colours, Winter Carnivals and the Hekkla are featured, along with stories from the archives on Intramurals, Varsity Sports, Boarding Houses, March Break Trips, Graduations and Staff, plus many more memories.

Purchase a copy of the 50th Anniversary Year Book at www.rosseaulakecollege.com/store or contact Susie Morphet at susie.morphet@rosseaulakecollege.com

“For years, I have been preoccupied by the fact that it’s impossible for Canadian children to see Canadian history recreated in a way that is appealing and interesting...and so I decided to take a crack at it myself.”

— Maurice East

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www.rosseaulakecollege.com