Alex House – A Lifer’s Tale

12 August 2021Brenna Lam Kennedy, Alexandra ‘21

When I first arrived on campus in 2017 I was handed an envelope with orientation information and was finally told the long-awaited news of my house placement. “Congratulations. You’re in Alex House!”

I’d like to thank a few monumental people here today that have also helped shape Alex to be the house it is today:

Of course, notably, there’s our ever radiant, classy, and fierce Jamaican leader. Maisy, thank you for going to bat for us, protecting us and always keeping us in line. As one of the last grades to experience your houseparenting abilities, we are ever grateful to have had you as a house mom for our first two developmental years.

After Maisy’s house retirement our wonderful assistant took over in the fall of 2019.

Mrs Warner, thank you for always being kind. If I had to compare Mrs Warner to something, it would be Superwoman. Not only does she have three kids, Finley, Sullivan, baby Brooks … wait sorry I meant four – we can’t forget Jordan – but she also takes care of 60 growing teenagers which I think is pretty outstanding. From listening to our many opinions and problems, navigating our, what I would consider legendary, Prefect meetings and giving us treats on Saturday night, Mrs. Warner is incredible. Thank you for everything you do.

At her side there’s the ever-bubbly Ms Hall.

Ms Hall has a gift for brightening spirits. Her constant enthusiasm is truly remarkable. We will never get tired of your Swazi spider story: it makes us laugh every time and I think could almost be considered an Alex House traditional tale. Thank you for being a friend. It’s not often we students have teachers that can be connected with professionally and personally – but you do this with ease. Also, you keep soon-to-be Mr. Hall in line, which is a feat in itself.

Although Hall, Warner and Maisy are our poster faces for Head of House they get a lot of help from our wonderful duty staff: Ms Pearse, Ms Luna, Mr Warner and Ms Richardson.

Ms Pearse always makes us laugh with her many stories. Her tales about the Brentwood she knew certainly keeps us entertained every weekend.

Ms Luna always makes sure to check up on us to see if we’re having a good day. She always does her best to help us with our problems no matter the circumstances, which we greatly appreciate.

Mr Warner can usually be found talking our ear off about anything under the sun, but specifically: boats, teaching, sports, and Manitoba. I’ve also found that he listens to timed rants if you have enough to complain about.
 
And finally, Ms Richardson: she has always been a warrior who looks out for us. As our advisor for the past four years she has followed us through the many changes and challenges we have faced here at Brentwood. As my personal mentor she’s been there for me through every up and down I’ve faced and I cannot express how thankful I am to have had her at my side.

Although they are not often in the house, Mme Hall, Ms Beausoleil, and Ms Calhoun are not to be looked over. As advisors they also have taken on a pivotal role in influencing the culture of the house.

Finally, thanks to the Alex lifers. Though we have lost and gained, with 10 of us here today, we are many. A lot has changed since Grade 9. We’ve had our ups and downs but together we’ve made it through everything.

Thank you to:
Charlotte for always listening to us.
Mia for your kindness
Paton for being one of the best hype women and always being filled with positivity.
Jocelyn for doing the impossible, and of course for being our wonderful Grad Prez.
Oli for always keeping us entertained with your witty comments.
Abi for giving the best life advice, no matter the situation.
Annika for always lending a helping hand to anyone in need, and being an amazing Assistant HC.
Jackie for being truly one of the greatest confidants I’ve ever known.
Fanstone for always keeping us laughing and smiling with your many shenanigans, like that one time you threw your phone out of the bus on the highway.

Words can not truly express the gratitude I have for being able to meet these amazing people. I can’t wait to see what the future holds and what you all accomplish.

Brentwood is an experience that I could never have predicted. At times it’s been really tough. There were times where I questioned if I was cut out for the long run. Looking out at all of you today I can’t imagine any other reality. Alex House has become my home, and the girls have become my sisters. I love you all and am going to miss you all to bits. Thank you for helping me become the person I am today and guiding each other through thick and thin. Though this is one of the last times this year we will all be together, our bond will never be broken. As family we will always be connected, no matter the distance between us.

It has been the greatest honor and privilege to be an Alex girl. Thank you to everyone who has made the house what it is today.

Here’s to us.

Brenna Lam Kennedy, Alexandra ‘21