Thankful Dinos

17 October 2021Miranda NP, Alex ‘23

As we leave Thanksgiving Break behind, students immerse themselves back into the busy Brentwood schedule, and, as Term One continues, a sense of gratitude lingers from our turkey dinner celebrations. With Houseparents spearheading the many responsibilities that come with our campus’ boarding life, it is only appropriate to be thankful for all that they do for us students.

In Alexandra House, Mrs Warner and Ms Hall are the heart of the Dino Fam; these two incredibly experienced ladies are phenomenal role models for the girls in the house, and exemplary at their job. Mrs Warner, the seventh Houseparent in Alex, has been a part of Brentwood for over 15 years. Alex House has always been her home; she was a duty staff for three years, Assistant Houseparent for nine, and now, in her third year as Alex Houseparent. Mrs Warner breathes, eats and sleeps Alex. Her favourite thing about the house is “the great group of girls and how much it feels like a home, it is truly [my] second family”.

Her partner in crime, Ms Hall, started her journey in Alex House as a BFA (Boarding Faculty Assistant) in 2014, then moved to Hope House for four years, after which she returned to Alex House in 2019 as an Assistant Houseparent. What makes Alex House so special for Ms Hall? Well, a recurring theme seems to emerge when talking about Alex: “The wonderful students and staff I get to live and work with, and the history and culture of Alex House are my favourite parts. When I go into the boarding house I feel like I’m in an extension or my own home. Alex House has character and is unique, which I really love. It feels homey and the students in Alex House embrace it the same way I do – with appreciation.”

Alex House, opened in 1927, is the oldest building on campus. “Every corner and nook and cranny of the house is unique and holds so much history” expresses Mrs Warner. “It is one of a kind.” Ms Hall claims, “There is no boarding house on campus that has the history, the coziness, or the uniqueness that Alex House has – it really is the best house. The people that come into this house quickly realize that while it may be small, it is filled with love.”

The love that Ms Hall refers to can be traced back to Alex House’s very own, Mrs Eileen Mais. As a former Alex Houseparent, Mrs Mais was “an amazing mentor” to Mrs Warner. “Her impact on the culture of Alex House is immeasurable.” Mrs. Mais is a perfect example of the pride and tradition that come with being a Dino.

The girls in Alex House could not be more thankful for the amazing staff that fills our walls. “They truly care for our mental health” values Sylvia E, Alex ‘23, and “They are willing to drop anything if you need something, even if they’re off duty.” House Captain, Justine C, Alex ‘22, truly appreciates how “No matter what time it is or what is going on, Mrs Warner and Ms Hall are always so supportive and ready to help.”

I speak on behalf of the Alex girls when I say that we are so thankful for the support Mrs Warner and Ms Hall provide us. Thank you for all that you do for us, the hugs, the laughs, the memories: you make Alex House feel like a home away from home!

Miranda NP, Alex ‘23

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