THE QUADRANGLE From the President
The 2016–17 year has been an exciting one for College and for the Association. There has been a resetting of our relationship with College, as well as some changes to the operations and activities of the Association. As we look forward, we will focus on three priorities: a new approach to signing up members, more active branches and greater contact with our younger Old Boys.
Third, the manner in which the Association supports College. In early 2016, the Committee adopted a new policy that set out conditions for the Association to donate to College. The focus is very much on support that is enduring and contributes to the fabric of the school and where there are no other obvious forms of support. As a result, there has been a commitment by the Committee to a 10-year programme of art purchases. Each year a new piece by a contemporary New Zealand artist, selected by Old Boy James Blackie, will be gifted to College. It is hoped this initiative will, over time, create a cultural resource for the school. The first piece, by Martin Basher, has already been purchased. In addition, the Association has now formalised its support of College through the Scholarship Fund. The Committee has created a formal Old Boys’ Association Scholarship. Previously, the Old Boys’ scholarships were discretionary and awarded annually. There will now be one award a year, for up to five years, for 33% of tuition fees. The Old Boys’ Association Scholarship will go to a boy who, due to his educational achievements and character, would benefit from attending College – but who, without the scholarship, would otherwise be unable to attend. As the Scholarship Fund grows – through careful investment and donations – it is hoped the number and size of the
Old Boys’ Association Scholarships will increase. Finally, there has been a change to the way in which the Association interacts with the Board. The Association continues to appoint two Fellows of the College. However, a memorandum of understanding has now been developed with College that will see us work closely with the Chair of the Board in making appointments, in order to ensure the Association appointees bring the right skills and talents to the table. The Association is lucky in its two current appointees, Peter Davie and Tom Elworthy. Although both were reappointed for four-year terms in 2016, unfortunately Tom will finish early in 2017. We are sorry to see him go. Our thanks to both Tom and Peter for their hard work and dedication. Reunions As always, the 2017 Reunion Weekend was a great success. The same is true of the 40 Years On Reunion. The Association is grateful to those who volunteer to help organise such events. During the year, Justine Nicholl and I had the opportunity to visit some kindred schools, including Melbourne Grammar School, Newington College and Auckland Grammar School. At those visits, it became clear to us that our interaction with our Old Boys starts too late, usually some 15 years after they have left College.
Relationship with College In early 2016, we welcomed College’s first Executive Principal, Garth Wynne. The change in title also heralded a change in approach, with a much closer and more co-operative working relationship between College and the Association. This has manifested in a number of ways: First, the relocation of the Association office into the Hare Memorial Library – the heart of College. Through this, our Secretary, Justine, is able to more easily communicate and work with College staff. Second, the introduction of Community Events. These events were held around Australasia – often at Old Boys’ homes or offices – and brought together Old Boys, current, past and prospective parents, and friends of College. These will be a permanent fixture on the calendar and will sit alongside our branch events.
Christ’s College Canterbury
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