May 2026

Principal’s Message

Dr. Katrina Samson

Over the past year, I’ve had the opportunity to travel and reconnect with Havergal Old Girls/Alums across the globe. No matter where our alumnae are living or the industries they work in, I’ve been struck by a common thread: a desire to make a difference.

I’ve met women in fashion who are challenging taboos around periods and designing clothing that reflects the true diversity of women’s bodies. Others are leading in technology, creating tools to combat disinformation and build trust in an increasingly complex digital world. Some are reshaping financial services, developing companies and apps that empower people to take control of their investments and futures. I’ve also connected with alumnae advancing environmental sustainability, championing animal welfare and breaking barriers in fields once considered off-limits to women, including sports broadcasting and management.

What stands out is not only their success, but also the way they connect their work to a larger sense of purpose. Again and again, I hear how the confidence and values nurtured at Havergal — integrity, inquiry, compassion and courage — have helped shape their paths and inspired them to lead with impact.

As we celebrate the Class of 2026 and all of our students, I’m reminded that difference-making at Havergal does not begin after graduation. Our students are already learning to lead, contribute and create change in meaningful ways every day. By encouraging them to think critically, act compassionately and engage courageously with the world around them, we are preparing future-ready graduates who are already making a difference. 

This is our final Inside Havergal for the 2025-26 school year. On behalf of the team here at HC, I wish you and yours the very best this summer. To our graduates and their graduating families, we share our heartfelt congratulations and appreciation.

Dr. Samson

Message from the Havergal College Board of Governors

Jill Fraser 1987, Chair of the Board

As we approach the conclusion of another remarkable year, I find myself reflecting on the vibrant energy that defines the Havergal experience. On behalf of the Board of Governors, I wish to express my deepest gratitude to Dr. Katrina Samson, the Senior Leadership Team, our dedicated faculty and staff and our entire community for your unwavering commitment to Havergal’s mission.

One of the highlights of the Board’s spring season was the April Board Meeting, where we were joined by student leaders Naomi McDonald (School Captain), Jana Kalbasi (Wellbeing Prefect), Isabella Tubbe (Sports Prefect) and Sola Akinbola (MS Prefect). Hearing them speak about mentorship, risk-taking and their efforts to bridge connections with younger students was truly inspiring. They have cultivated a culture of belonging and school spirit that will leave a lasting impact. Thank you to the entire student leadership team for your vision and heart.

This season of transition is a personal one for me as well. This is my final message to you as Board Chair, as I prepare to transition to the role of Past Chair in September. It has been an incredible honour to serve this community as Chair over the last three years and as a Board Governor since 2018. The warmth and dedication of our students, families, faculty and staff have made this journey profoundly rewarding.

I am thrilled that Kate Horton (Class of 1994) will be assuming the role of Board Chair. Her leadership will focus on our long-term strategic oversight and our continued commitment to Inclusive Excellence. You can learn more about Kate Horton in a message from Michael Copeland below. Please join me in welcoming her with the same ivy spirit you have shown me.

To the Class of 2025: as you prepare to walk past the ivy and into your next chapter, remember that you carry the strength of the community behind you. Be bold, stay inquisitive and continue to lead with the integrity and passion you’ve shown here. We are so proud of the difference you are already making in the world.

For those looking to give back to the Havergal legacy, please contact Kate Crokam, Executive Director of Advancement, to learn how your participation fuels the success of our students.

With deep gratitude and Havergal pride,

Jill Fraser

Introducing the New Chair of the Board of Governors, Kate Horton

Michael Copeland, Chair of Governance, Havergal College Board of Governors

We are very pleased to announce that Kate Horton (Class of 1994) will be appointed as the new Chair of the Board of Governors this September, following the Annual General Meeting. Kate is an alumna and current parent, and is the President and CEO of Ronald McDonald House Canada where she oversees the funding and enablement of 37 program locations nationwide. She is known for her ability to navigate diverse business landscapes — from the corporate world to community-based nonprofits — to achieve a shared vision and measurable results. Her extensive experience and deep connection to the school will be invaluable as she guides Havergal’s long-term vision and success.

We also share our deepest gratitude to our outgoing Chair, Jill Fraser (Class of 1987). During her tenure, Jill was instrumental in launching the Empowering Excellence strategic plan, laying the groundwork for a substantial expansion of our outdoor athletic and play facilities, including the new Junior School playscape, refurbished tennis courts, lower pitch revitalization and preparations for our new turf field and seasonal dome. Jill has left a lasting impact on our community through her dedication to advancing girls’ education and athletics. To ensure a seamless leadership transition and maintain governance continuity, Jill will serve as Past Chair for the coming year, providing strategic support to Kate in her new role.

Please join me in expressing our appreciation to Jill and welcoming Kate in her new capacity.

Celebrating the Incredible Successes of Our Grads

Heather Johnstone, Director of Guidance, Academic and University Counselling

As we wrap up another exceptional year in the Havergal College Guidance Department, I want to take a moment to celebrate the remarkable successes of this year’s graduating class as we highlight the emerging and continuing admission trends we are observing.

Canadian University Admissions: On the Canadian front, our graduates have secured offers to some of the most selective programs across the country, spanning a multitude of disciplines from engineering, health sciences, nursing, business and kinesiology. Acceptance rates for several of these programs hovered below 3%, making securing a spot more competitive than gaining admission to top-tier U.S. institutions.

International Admissions: Havergal graduates also continue to thrive on the international stage. Our students maintained a strong U.S. presence, earning offers from nearly every Ivy League institution and numerous Top 20 universities, including several recognized on Forbes’ “New Ivies” list. Furthermore, direct-entry programs in the U.K. and Ireland remain highly attractive for students pursuing professional pathways; this year, we are proud to have graduates matriculating directly into medicine and veterinary medicine.

University Relations & Outreach: To support these ambitions, the Guidance Department continues to cultivate deep relationships with admissions offices globally. This year, we again hosted our annual Canadian and International University Fairs, alongside more than 55 lunchtime and after-school information sessions, providing our students with invaluable direct access to university information and admissions officers.

Innovative Tools for Evolving Trends: As highly selective programs increasingly incorporate video interviews into their evaluation processes, we were thrilled to pilot a new AI-driven practice platform for our Grade 12 students this year. Developed by a private partner, this tool allows students to conduct virtual practice interviews and receive tailored feedback based on actual university rubrics. Our graduates embraced this resource wholeheartedly, utilizing the platform more than any other pilot school. Looking ahead to next year, we are excited to report the expansion of this tool to include practice modules for medical school Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs) and U.S. optional video submissions.

Our Guidance Team is consistently inspired by the outstanding accomplishments of our graduating class and remains deeply committed to guiding them through the ever-evolving admissions landscape. Our group of skilled, knowledgeable professionals is dedicated to continuous growth and adaptation. Ultimately, it is a true privilege to share this journey with our graduates.

Thanking Our HCPA Difference Makers

On behalf of Havergal College’s leadership team, faculty and staff, we extend our deepest gratitude to the Havergal College Parents Association (HCPA) for their dedication to the school. This month, as we celebrate our graduates, we recognize that our parent volunteers are important role models as difference makers for our students. Through your service, you embody the compassion, courage and adaptability that we hope our graduates carry on throughout their lives.

Your impact is felt across every hallway of the school. We especially want to highlight the vibrant energy brought to the Junior School this year — from the JS A-mazing Race, where parent volunteers fostered sportsmanship, to the Grade Breakfasts that sparked creative connections. Equally vital is the support felt in the Upper School, where your dedication fuels the spirit of our community! Whether sorting pre-loved uniforms to champion sustainability, organizing the Gator Gala or running concession stands at Friday Night Lights, you prove that being a “Difference Maker” is about tenacity and heart. 

From the HCPA’s Executive Team to our event volunteers, you are the heartbeat of this community. Thank you for showing our students that true leadership is found in the joy of giving back.

Green & Gold Shop Summer Closures

The Green & Gold Shop will be closed for the summer starting on Friday, June 12 at 4
pm until Tuesday, August 4 at 8 am, with special summer hours.

The shop will also be closed on Friday, August 28 for the long weekend.

Please ensure you order any necessary uniform items before the shop closes to ensure
you have it for the first day of school.

Learn more at https://greenandgold.havergal.on.ca/.

A Memorable JS A-mazing Race

Thank You to All Who Joined Us!

The spirit of community was on full display Sunday, May 3, as the HCPA hosted the annual JS A-mazing Race. This beloved Havergal tradition brings families together for a fast-paced afternoon of challenges, fostering connections between new families and long-standing members of our community. Under bright, sunny skies, the energy was truly electric as teams navigated various stations, supported by over 60 dedicated volunteers from the Junior & Upper Schools and the wider HC community. From the logistical precision of the set-up crew to our enthusiastic activity leads, this event thrived thanks to the collective effort of our wonderful helpers.

We owe a massive debt of gratitude to our incredible Co-Chairs, Hana Ma and Rachel Zhang, whose meticulous planning ensured a seamless and fun-filled experience for everyone involved. Whether you were sprinting through House challenges or cheering from the sidelines, the day was a testament to the HC spirit!

We are thrilled to announce that Margaret Taylor House took home the coveted overall trophy this year! Please join us in celebrating all our House title winners who demonstrated exceptional character:

You can browse the full A-mazing Race photo gallery to relive the highlights and see our students in action. Thank you to everyone who participated and made the day so memorable!

Looking Forward to Moms’ Night Out at Taylor’s Landing!

Thursday, May 28

The countdown is officially on! This Thursday, May 28, the Havergal community will gather at Taylor’s Landing for one of our most cherished HCPA traditions: Moms’ Night Out (MNO). For families new to Havergal, MNO is a signature annual social event designed to bring mothers from all grades together in a relaxed, festive setting. It offers a rare moment in the busy spring term to step away from the daily “to-do” list, enjoy gourmet appetizers and cultivate the lifelong friendships that make the Havergal parent network so uniquely supportive.

While registration is now closed, the excitement is just beginning. Our 2026 MNO Chair, Faria Umar, and Vice-Chair, Grace Zhao, have worked tirelessly to infuse this year’s program with fresh surprises and a vibrant atmosphere. Their vision and dedication ensure that this evening will be more than just a party — it is a true celebration of the women who anchor our HC community. We extend a sincere thank you to Faria and Grace for their leadership.

Pre-loved Uniforms — A Growing Tradition!

Havergal’s commitment to sustainability thrives through the Pre-Loved Uniform program, an initiative that gives outgrown uniforms a second life. For new families, this program offers a wonderful way to support eco-friendly efforts while accessing affordable school wear. To prepare for a refreshed inventory this fall, we are holding our final summer collection on Wednesday, June 10, from 8 to 11:30 am. Please drop off gently-used items at the Junior or Upper School bins before they close for the summer break. We extend a huge thank you to Chair Meaghan Kinlin, Vice-Chair Stefanie Holland, and their volunteers for their tireless work this year!

Updated Donation Guidelines

We gratefully accept high-quality items (free of rips or stains), including:

Note: We cannot accept socks, green leggings or white graduation blazers.

The Last HCPA General Meeting for 2025–26

Shop at the HCPA Marketplace

Show your HC pride while supporting the students of Havergal! The HCPA Marketplace serves as your year-round hub for seasonal swag and exclusive HC items. Every purchase directly funds vital programs and initiatives that enrich our school community. Whether you need fan-favourite staples or the latest seasonal arrivals, you can browse the full HCPA Marketplace collection here.

Graduation Special: Class of 2026 Frames

To honour our newest graduates, the Marketplace offers custom-crafted frames designed to preserve your daughter’s lifetime milestones. These elegant frames showcase Grade 12 diplomas, class composite photos and individual portraits.

Important Deadline: As frames are made to order, please allow three weeks for delivery. To ensure your keepsakes arrive in time for your graduation festivities, place your graduation frame orders here by the final deadline of Friday, June 5.

If you have questions regarding the Marketplace or graduation frames, please contact the HCPA team at [email protected].

HCPA Faculty & Staff Appreciation Ivy Pub

Today, the Havergal campus transforms into a vibrant Olympic Village for our annual HCPA Faculty & Staff Appreciation Ivy Pub! For families new to the HC, this event is a cherished tradition where parents host a themed social to give back to the dedicated teachers and staff who support our students all year long. This year, we are celebrating the “gold medal” efforts of the entire Havergal team with a spirited, Olympic-inspired afternoon.

From 3:30 to 5:30 pm, faculty and staff will step away from their desks to enjoy an afternoon of relaxation and friendly competition in the Temerty Commons (or outdoors, weather permitting). The celebration features “Olympic Village” favourites like Spikeball, giant Connect Four and races, alongside a celebratory photo booth and upbeat music. A true highlight of the menu is the wonderful tradition of handmade dumplings prepared and provided by our parent community. These are served alongside a delicious spread catered by Chartwells and exciting raffle prizes — all made possible by the generous contributions parents made to the HCPA earlier this school year.

We want to extend a massive thank you to our Staff Appreciation Co-Chairs, Rebecca Fu and Ashmina Damani, and HCPA Treasurer, Colleen Sun. Their creative vision and careful planning have ensured this event is a success!

HCPA Volunteer Reception

Monday, June 1

At the heart of Havergal’s vibrant culture is a dedicated network of parents who give their time, talent and energy to enrich the student experience. To express the school’s deep gratitude for this commitment, HC is proud to host the annual HCPA Volunteer Reception on Monday, June 1, from 6:30 to 8 pm. This special evening is organized and hosted by the school leadership as a formal “thank you” to all 2025–26 volunteers and HCPA members who have made this year’s programs and traditions possible.

This reception is a tradition where faculty and staff pause to celebrate the vital partnership between the school and its parent volunteers. Whether you helped organize a major event, supported the Pre-Loved Uniform program or served as a class representative, your contributions have made a lasting impact.

While the RSVP window has now closed, we want to ensure all our volunteers feel recognized. If you were a volunteer this year but did not receive event details, please contact Lauren Farquharson, Parent Relations Manager, at [email protected]. We look forward to an evening dedicated entirely to celebrating our HCPA parents and the incredible work you have done for our students and community!

Anne Marie Miki

Guidance Counsellor

As a member of the Upper School Guidance Team, Ms. Miki supports students in Grades 10 through 12 in their journey to become future-ready. She is dedicated to helping Gators confidently explore post-secondary opportunities, ensuring they transition from Havergal with the resilience and authenticity needed to navigate a global landscape.

In her additional capacity as Grade 12 Programming Lead, Ms. Miki develops morning programming curriculum intentionally to support graduates as they transition to life beyond these incredible ivy walls. She enjoys the opportunity to collaborate with talented departments at Havergal, including Human Resources, Advancement, Senior Leadership and the Health Centre, to ensure programming is holistic and impactful, with student wellbeing and readiness at the heart of the transition process. 

Her approach is informed by 12 years of experience with the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board, where she served as a classroom teacher, guidance counsellor and IB Diploma Programme Coordinator. Her background in managing global curriculum has given her a unique perspective on helping students find their own paths to higher education at institutions around the world.

Ms. Miki has an appreciation for the outdoors. On a lovely school day, you will often see her taking a mental health walk through the Lisa Hardie trail. In her personal time, she embraces all seasons through hiking, camping, rock climbing and snowboarding, modelling the balanced and active lifestyle she encourages in her students.