Lifer's for Life

On May 26th, after several weeks of indecisive weather and stressful AP exams, Brentwood began to prepare for the 40th annual Lifers Dinner in celebration of the graduating students who have attended Brentwood since Grade 9. On behalf of the Lifers, I would like to extend a massive thank you to the food services team, staff members, particularly Ms Ramsay, and students who made this a night to remember. 

64 lifers convened in McNeill’s with houseparents, house staff, and members of the administration to discuss, enjoy, and reminisce on the past four years at Brentwood. The evening began with opening remarks from Head of School, Mr Chalmers who introduced the MC of the night, Mr Cowie, a seasoned Brentwood staff member known for his fun facts and witty anecdotes. 

After each house had correctly guessed the punchline of Mr Cowie’s various puns, they proceeded to the buffet and enjoyed a feast fit for royalty. The dinner moved into a series of humorous, gratuitous, and moving speeches delivered on behalf of each house's chosen representative. Elena F, Hope ‘25 described the speeches as “insightful reflections on where we started our Brentwood journeys and how they are concluding.”

Heartfelt speeches invoked tears from staff and students alike, and the emotions didn’t let up when the 2025 Lifers Slideshow played. Thank you to Zoe G, Alex ‘24 for putting it together for everyone to enjoy! 

Mr Collis-Hanford comically stated, “Lifers is a funny word really because it’s just four years,” however, those four years have allowed over 60 young adults to form friendships that will last a lifetime. On that note, the overwhelming feeling of the night was gratitude. Shunsuke N, Ellis ‘25 expresses his thanks “for the memories, opportunities, and people, that four years at Brentwood enabled us to enjoy.”

Brynn W, Mack ‘25