CONVERSATIONS with Alumnae
In addition to welcoming alumnae back to campus for the birthday , reunions , student and school events , and special activities , such as the alumnae vs . student field hockey , we were pleased to connect with several alumnae ranging from the Class of 1945 to the Class of 2018 .
Our alumnae are confident women who accomplish extraordinary things and excel in professions far and wide , and each of our alumnae has a unique , inspiring story to celebrate .
JOAN ( HARSTONE ) WRIGHT ’ 45
This year , Pamela Wright ’ 73 was instrumental in organizing her classes ’ s milestone reunion and was able to attend the School ’ s 125th birthday in March . While in discussion with the Advancement team , she shared that her mother , Joan ( Harstone ) Wright , was also an alumna who had very fond memories of the School . In June , we were honoured to welcome Joan and Pamela back to campus . Sitting down for tea in the Old Residence , we were able to hear first-hand about Joan ’ s experience at Crofton House in the 1940s – and the friendships and values that stayed with her . We were thrilled to learn more about Joan ’ s time at CHS – and a little bit about Pamela ’ s as well !
How would you describe your experience at CHS ?
It was very wonderful . The School was welcoming . I was very shy when I started yet made lifelong friends .
I was happy at Crofton House , and the School was very good for me . As a result I sent my daughter , Pamela Harstone Wright , there as well . I know she and her classmates are still in touch , and she is as blessed as I was to have the schooling she had . The School was very patient with her dreaming and laughing and ability to never do any work . I don ’ t have a granddaughter , but I have a dream that my great-granddaughter , Lennon , will also go to Crofton House .
What do you remember most fondly from your time at CHS ?
I remember Sports Day , graduation and the socials , as well as the school dance and the Carol Service . I remember the girls and the friendships and having all of my class of 24 girls over to our house on Marguerite Street .
What were your favourite activities while you were at CHS ?
My shyness held me back from many things . I was not brave or confident enough to play on teams or perform in plays , but I did enjoy track , tennis and basketball .
What ’ s your favourite memory of CHS ?
Social events with my friends and entertaining boarding students , including Nancy Willis and Betty Hunt , at our house for the weekend .
What is something that you value from your time at CHS ?
Lifelong friends , being happy at school and Mrs Johnston .
Mrs Johnston helped me settle in and always kept her eye on me . She knew I was new to the School and so shy . She took me under her wing . She was so kind , it helped me fit in much better and lose a little of my shyness . I feel so much fondness and gratitude towards her .
When I moved from Tuxedo in Grade 8 , I missed all my friends so much . I was used to a small school with boys and girls . My father put me in York House , but I wanted to be in a public school . I switched to Prince of Wales for one year , but I did very poorly for that year ! My mother gave me the ultimatum of going back to York House or to Crofton House . I chose Crofton House and was very happy that that was my choice !
What advice would you give to current CHS students ?
Be polite to others , be kind , gracious , patient and open-minded . Be fair . Treat people how you wish to be treated .
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