It is with great sadness that I share the news of the passing of longtime St. Stephen's community member, Michael

Stannus. Michael died on, May 31, of natural causes. We received the news from his wife, Mariella.

Michael joined St. Stephen's in 1972, landing a post as Boarding Head and teacher "on the day I was morosely finalizing the details of the trip back [home] to Australia." He served twenty years as teacher, Boarding Head, Director of Studies, Assistant Headmaster and Headmaster of the school, concluding his tenure in 1992. He oversaw the introduction of the IB program at St. Stephen's, a shift that fashioned the school we enjoy today. Of our school Michael once remarked,

"Over fifty years, St. Stephen's has shaped students' minds and helped inform decisions that affect the rest of their lives.

Yet most of us, both students and teachers, as we look back over our years at the School, are aware that one of the most valuable aspects of our experiences has been the lasting friendships it has helped us generate. In this I find I am no exception, and I am grateful."

In recent years, Michael extended his connection with the school by attending concerts and events, contributing richly to the 50th Anniversary celebration, linking us with the non-profit

Emergency (for which he volunteered), and, most endearingly to these eyes, regularly coming to the Cortile to learn Spanish from one of our teachers - a living testimony to lifelong learning.

His legacy was of such magnitude that the Board of Trustees established a permanent faculty prize, the "Michael Stannus Excellence in Teaching Award", an annual award "recognizing a member of the faculty who reflects the high standards and commitment to working with young people which exemplified Michael Stannus' contribution."

We are honoured to remember a truly gentle and noble soul, during a memorial service that will take place in September.