Let me begin by extending best wishes for a prosperous 2007 to the KCOBA fraternity and extended Kingston College family. I was listening to an advertisement on a radio program early in the New Year where it was mentioned that the word “new” is synonymous with “fresh”. It is my hope that the year 2007 indeed represents a fresh start for the relationship between our various Chapters, KC Old Boys, Kingston College and all stake holders.
I am particularly encouraged by the engagement of the student body represented by the Head Boy, Luceian Creary who has been actively participating in e-mail exchanges with KC Old Boys and contributing articles to the Newsletter. It is important to hear directly from the students and get a first hand account of their perspective. This relationship and dialogue must be encouraged and hopefully continue beyond the tenure of the current Head Boy.
The 2006 Summit in Toronto attempted to rally the forces behind a unified vision of the future for Kingston College, as outlined in the Strategic Plan developed by those on the ground. Although some progress has been made regarding projects identified at the Summit, it is clear that we do not yet have the cohesiveness and sense of purpose to be truly effective as an entity. Let us resolve to address this issue in 2007. There is no doubt that despite disagreement on the way forward we all have the best interest of Kingston College in mind. On this front, we are united. The next Summit scheduled for this summer in Kingston, Jamaica will hopefully be more conducive to addressing this issue as the expectation is that all stakeholders will be present and actively participate in the event.
I also encourage all Old Boys to consider personal contributions to the Trust Fund as well as endeavour to support your respective Chapters. On the Toronto front, our next major fund raising effort will be our annual Spring Dance, scheduled for Saturday, June 2, 2007. Proceeds from this event will be targeted at projects involving the Library, Science Lab and Douglas Forrest Building Fund. Music will be provided by KC Old Boy Winston Blake of Merritone and Turn Table fame. If there was ever a great reason to visit Toronto this would be an excellent opportunity and an appropriate time. Let us commit ourselves to a fresh start in 2007 and redouble our efforts to help the deserving young men in attendance at our beloved alma mater.
