Torch - Spring/Summer 2019

Principal’s Message

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We focus on empowering girls and helping them to be their best selves now and in the future.

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Celebrating 125 Years of Empowerment Helen-Kay Davy

I n the main hallway, opposite the Ellen Knox Library, hang the pictures of the 103 members of our Hall of Distinction. I often see students look at these images of Old Girls and read about these remarkable women as they wait to go into Prayers. At Havergal, we focus on empowering girls and helping them to be their best selves now and in the future. Having role models like our Old Girls furthers that. Sometimes, the girls marvel at the fashion of the times, but they also connect with the faces and each story. They ask the question, “How did she do it?” They take the abstract idea of future success and make it concrete and doable. Havergal is celebrating its 125th year and we were among the first schools in Canada to take the education of young women seriously, preparing them for success outside the home. Indeed, Havergal has graduated a long list of women who have made a difference in politics, business, science and beyond. Of course, education and society have changed dramatically in a century and a quarter. The way we need to empower girls

today is quite different. We encourage our students to study and explore all subjects and question the previously held assumptions related to certain disciplines. What we foster now is the confidence that propels people to achieve personal success as they discover fulfilment on their own terms. Our values of integrity and courage are more important than ever. Outside these ivy walls, our students will face unconscious bias and challenges as they try to fulfill their goals. We need to nurture girls, so they can feel courageous in the face of unfairness or pressure and stay connected to their integrity as they push forward as leaders and become worthy role models themselves. As a final note, this is my last “Principal’s Message” as I conclude my time at Havergal this summer. It’s been a wonderful five years, during which time I’ve felt surrounded by inspiring people and excitement about ideas and education. I shall miss the faculty and staff, as well as these amazing young students who keep surprising me, year after year, with their energy, compassion and love of learning.

TABLE OF CONTENTS | SPRING/SUMMER 2019 • TORCH 3