Havergal College & The Havergal College Foundation Impact Report 2019-20

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ENDOWMENT

Endowment Donor Story: Marianne Oundjian 1969 When Marianne Oundjian reflects back on her time as a student at Havergal, not only do fond thoughts of her teachers and classmates come to mind, but also the memories of the many extracurricular opportunities a Havergal education afforded, something which she values the most. “I recall the after-school music lessons way up in the tower; the Drama Club plays (I was in several and was even the lead!); the one winter our French class had a ‘Carnaval’ exchange with a school in Quebec City. There are so many memories which remain vivid, including those hot lunches in the dining room, the amazing Havergal Bazaar (presently known as Celebration Saturday) and all the remarkable teachers, each with their own unique character. It’s the blend of all these memories that remains embedded in my mind. What a rewarding experience!” This enriching experience was not one that ended after graduation for Marianne, but rather became a lifelong attachment to the school community and her classmates, which has now spanned over 50 years. Staying involved in the community has allowed her to see first-hand the impact that the modern campus expansions—made possible via the Limitless Campaign —have afforded students, faculty and staff. She has enjoyed visiting the campus to admire the way things have changed since her time as a student. “As I return from time to time, I marvel at the developments in infrastructure and in the inspirational teaching,” she says. “I’ve often mused about being a student again, having a back-to-school alumni learning week, living in the dorms...what fun!” Financial support has always been a way for Marianne to show her gratitude to the Havergal community. In 2010, she formed the Marianne Oundjian 1969 International Enrichment Fund , to provide students who demonstrate financial need with the opportunity to participate in international excursions.

“I wanted to give back to the school in a meaningful way, and the global experience inspired me to set up a fund to offer financial support to qualified students who wished to experience the adventure and excitement offered through foreign travel,” she explains. “The opportunity to learn from other cultures is invaluable.” Marianne knows the importance that bursaries and enrichment funds have not only on the College campus, but also on the future of our young people. She recognizes the Havergal tradition of philanthropy and emphasis that has been placed on students in recent years to pay it forward. “The Havergal community is well aware of the benefits of giving back and of offering opportunity to those talented young women who may be financially challenged,” Marianne says. “There’s nothing more rewarding than bringing a new-found joy to a young person’s face. If we can bring joy to even one, in a small way, we’ve accomplished our mission.” For more information on how you can support a student through a bursary or endowment fund, please contact Tony di Cosmo, Executive Director, Advancement & Community Relations, at 416.482.4704 or tdicosmo@havergal.on.ca.