Torch - Fall/Winter 2018-19

Donor Profile

“

In 2011, she formed the Ann Kerwin Bursary to provide students who demonstrate financial need the opportunity to go to Havergal.

“

Decades of Giving Why Former Teacher Ann Kerwin Continues to Support Havergal Over the Years

By Andrew McKay

T here are anxieties associated with anyone starting a new position, but when Ann Kerwin first joined Havergal in 1971 as a teacher of Social Science, her biggest concern was her age. “Having just turned 23 when I started, I was only a few years older than the school’s senior students. I thought I’d be mistaken for a student, or that the girls would not accept me as their teacher, since I looked like I could be one of their peers.” Although there were a few second looks from students on the first day of classes, she was quickly accepted into the community and felt at ease. “I was always grateful for the support I received from Principal Dr. Catherine Steele. She encouraged us to think outside the box and gave us the confidence to be bold in the way we encouraged the girls to learn.” It wasn’t long before she was made Head of Social Sciences, a position she held until the early 1980s.

gratefully accepted the position on the Campaign Cabinet and became one of its earliest financial supporters. “There is so much to be excited about with the Limitless Campaign . The new build features spaces that help to support the learning of our students. Each area is geared toward the specific learning style of that age group. It encompasses the latest advancements in technology and allows the girls to learn in a collaborative environment. The knowledge of how girls learn best is reflected in the architecture of each new space and provides the girls all the tools they need to flourish in today’s world.” Ann Kerwin is also enthusiastic about the possibilities this will afford the school’s faculty. “The results of the campaign will allow the teachers to broaden the way they teach, offer more creative support and provide a much better space to perform their miracles.”

After leaving Havergal to work in Western Canada and then the U.K., she remained in contact with the school’s community. She eventually returned to the Toronto area, where she worked at nearby private schools. She returned to Havergal as a supply teacher, once again becoming very involved on numerous committees, before rising to Chair community. I always stayed in touch with the staff and faculty I worked with, as well as some of my former students.” Financial support has always been a way for her to show her gratitude. In 2011, she formed the Ann Kerwin Bursary to provide students who demonstrate financial need the opportunity to go to Havergal. Staying involved in the Havergal community through the years has allowed her to see first-hand the impact that previous capital campaigns have had on the campus. Once learning of the Limitless Campaign , she of the Board of Governors in 2012. “Havergal is a warm and welcoming

TABLE OF CONTENTS • ANNUAL REPORT 2017–18 49