Grade 11 Graduation Ceremony 2026

On June 17, Selwyn House gathered in Coristine Hall to celebrate the graduation of the Grade 11 Class of 2026. With a packed house in attendance, a bagpiper led the graduates into the hall, followed by the singing of the school hymn.

 

Headmaster Mr. Downey presented awards recognizing not only academic achievement but also strength of character. For the first time since 2023, the Redpath Herald Award was presented, with this year's honour going to Mr. Neil Banerjee for consistently going above and beyond in service to the school community.

 

Adam Sun received the Governor General's Bronze Medal for Academic Distinction in Secondary School, awarded to the student with the highest overall academic average. The distinction was decided by only a few decimal points over the second-highest average, recognized by the Thomas Henry Pentland Molson ’11 Prize for General Excellence, which was awarded to Vojtech Blasch. In addition, former Head of Middle School, Ms. Carol Manning, returned to give out the award named in her honour.

 

Continuing a long-standing tradition, Head Prefect Eli Raisman delivered the Valedictory Address. His heartfelt speech earned a standing ovation and left barely a dry eye in the room as he reflected on the people who supported him and his classmates throughout their Selwyn journey. Eli shared his gratitude for the many individuals who helped shape his experience no matter how profoundly challenging, saying, “My friends and their parents, my coaches, my teachers. Your cups overflowed with empathy, compassion, generosity, kindness, and love. And this is the living, breathing embodiment of Veritas.” We thank Eli for sharing words of wisdom well beyond his years.

 

Headmaster Mr. Downey then addressed the graduating class, reflecting on their journey at Selwyn House and speaking about the importance of character, leadership, and community. He reminded graduates that the world needs thoughtful and compassionate leaders more than ever before and expressed confidence that this group was well prepared to meet that challenge.

 

The ceremony then moved to one of its most anticipated moments as Mr. Banerjee, Assistant Head of School, announced each graduate and shared their plans for next year. As Mme. Thériault, Director of Academic Innovation & Growth, presented the diplomas, each student crossed the stage with family, friends, classmates, and staff members who had supported them throughout their Selwyn journey watching.

 

As each graduate exited the stage, they were presented with an Old Boy tie by Mr. Sean McKinnon ’98, former President of the Selwyn House Old Boys’ Association (OBA) Board, and Ms. Auclair, Alumni Relations Officer, officially welcoming them into the OBA.

 

The ceremony concluded with the singing of O Canada accompanied on piano by graduating student Nathan Chen before celebrants gathered in the Rossy Agora to celebrate this important milestone together.

 

While this chapter at Selwyn House has come to an end, the journey for the Class of 2026 is only beginning. Whether continuing their studies at Selwyn or pursuing opportunities elsewhere, these young men leave with the knowledge, character, and friendships that have shaped their time here. We look forward to seeing all they will accomplish in the years ahead.

 

Congratulations to the graduates, and thank to everyone that supported helped make this memorable evening possible.

See more media from the ceremony:
Candids, Formal, OBA Induction
Highlight video