Important Message from David Hadden to Jock Fleming, Chair of the LCS Board of Directors
June 29, 2007
Mr. Jock Fleming
Chair of the Board of Directors
Lakefield College School
Dear Jock,
Little did I know when Susan and I moved to Lakefield with our young daughters, Heather and Katie, I would be writing 22 years later to thank you for what has proven to be the professional and personal opportunity of our lives. Our greatest reward has been getting to know our students. Supporting them in their growth and development has been a constant joy. It is with mixed emotions that I write to inform you that the 2007/08 academic year will be my last as Head of Lakefield College School. Susan and I have reached our decision after a great deal of thought and deliberation. It is the right time.
The ambitious goals set out in Lakefield’s current strategic plan, Securing Our Future, have been met. The School’s endowment has increased significantly; construction of the Student Recreation Centre has begun. As the Board of Directors begins the lengthy process of developing its next strategic vision for Lakefield, it is an ideal time to seek new leadership for this special school.
Serving Lakefield College School has been such a privilege. It has been an honour to have led Lakefield towards a collectively inspired vision that has created a period of dynamic change. We have fulfilled many dreams. I look forward to continuing to serve as CEO of the Foundation for a one-year period, from off the campus, for the 2008-09 year.
Over the past two decades, the Board of Directors and Trustees have provided visionary leadership and direction. Your thoroughly dedicated commitment and warm support have been greatly appreciated. I have been equally privileged to have served a remarkably talented, caring, and committed group of staff.
I have no doubt that Lakefield’s future will be a bright one and that the school will continue to build vigorously upon its strengths. I look forward to supporting a smooth transition of leadership.
As always, I remain grateful for your support, guidance, and friendship.
Yours sincerely,
David Hadden
Head of School
Jock Fleming's Message to the LCS Community
July 12, 2007
Dear Trustees, Parents, Students, Alumni, Faculty, Staff and Friends
It is with deep appreciation and regret that I inform you of David’s decision to retire as Head of Lakefield after the academic year 07/08. When David approached me with his intention to retire as Head of our school, I knew there was little I or we could do to change his mind. I am happy to report that David has agreed to stay on as CEO of the Lakefield College School Foundation for an additional year (08/09). He will fulfill this responsibility while living off-campus.
It is hard to imagine the Grove without the Haddens. For 22 years, David has been a visionary leader. His energy, driving passion, commitment, sense of humour, and compassion are all legendary. How can we begin to thank someone who has transformed our school in so many ways?
After boldly moving to co-education in the late 80’s, Lakefield took a leadership role with its investment in technology. Our physical plant has never been better and it continues to be enhanced and expanded. After all, David was the person who coined the phrase “LCS actually stands for Let’s Change Something”. Lakefield’s endowment has increased almost ten-fold during his tenure. Thousands of students have benefited from his wisdom and caring nature. On behalf of the entire Grove family, thank you so very much.
We will begin our search for a new Head immediately. I know that this will not be an easy task. John Ryder, Vice-Chair of the Board will head the search committee when it is assembled.
Lakefield is like no other. We have always remained true to our mission to challenge and enable students to reach their individual potential in mind, body and spirit. The Grove has a strong foundation upon which to build. I am confident that the School Board and Foundation Board will appoint a strong leader who will continue to take Lakefield to new heights.
David and Susan, again, thank you for your unprecedented commitment, dedication, and love for our school.
4391 County Road 29, Lakefield Ontario K0L 2H0 705.652.3324 admissions@lcs.on.ca
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Lakefield College School is a private, coeducational boarding and day school for students in grades 9 through 12, located in Lakefield, Ontario, Canada.
We respectfully acknowledge that Lakefield College School is located on the Treaty 20 Michi Saagiig territory and in the traditional territory of the Michi Saagiig and Chippewa Nations, collectively known as the Williams Treaties First Nations, which include: Curve Lake, Hiawatha, Alderville, Scugog Island, Rama, Beausoleil, and Georgina Island First Nations. Lakefield College School respectfully acknowledges that the Williams Treaties First Nations are the stewards and caretakers of these lands and waters in perpetuity and that they continue to maintain this responsibility to ensure their health and integrity for generations to come.