Reflections of Havergal: 1994-2019

OVERVIEW

TABLE OF CONTENTS

GUIDING L IGHTS

Principal Portraits Commentary by Sue Ditchburn, former Principal

What do the portraits reveal? If we look at the portraits first of Ellen Knox and Catherine Steele, we are struck by their presence—imposing, reflective, somewhat imperial. The portraits suggest strength of character but tell us little of the personal. Think, then, of the portrait of Mary Dennys—situated in a comfortable chair, her open and welcoming expression, her constant companion on her knee. Then, our most recent principal, Priscilla Winn Barlow, portrayed in home surroundings, albeit the school residence, but suggestive of entertainment—welcoming people in the more personal surroundings of her home whilst at Havergal. The change in the nature of the portraits reflects a change in our expectations of leaders—that in the 1990s we expect leaders to be more approachable, and we understand that there are other dimensions to their lives. However, while some aspects of our expectations have changed over time, the history of Havergal demonstrates some strong and persisting character similarities. These women displayed grit, vision, commitment, strong personalities, fierce determination and an abiding loyalty to Havergal. Havergal: Celebrating a Century 11 tells the stories of the women who cultivated the Havergal tree during its first 100 years. Those stories show them to have been faithful stewards and bold visionaries. The same is true of Havergal’s guiding lights in its second century.

Priscilla Winn Barlow, Havergal’s eighth principal.

Priscilla Winn Barlow, 1992–97

Early in 1992, Havergal’s Board of Governors received the report of the search committee that was charged with the task of finding the school’s eighth principal. The committee’s conclusion was a robust endorsement of the candidate: Your Committee believes that Priscilla Winn Barlow has the qualities of character and the capacity—as evidenced in her references and as perceived by the Committee— to lead Havergal with imagination and vigour into its second century. [Dr.] Winn Barlow’s intellectual depth and breadth and her proven ability to lead a large, multi- faceted organization make her admirably suited and eminently qualified for the demanding and complex job ahead of her.

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