Best and brightest at college
CONTINUAL learning, being service oriented, radiating positive energy and believing in other people were four of the points touched on by Downlands College principal Stephen McIllhatton in his address during its awards ceremony.
“We hope that through your education, you will see your future career as a mission and not solely as a job,” he said.
“We hope you constantly reflect on ways in which you can contribute and see each day as an opportunity to help others.”
He also encouraged graduates to see life as an adventure, to be comfortable in their own skin and be part of the solution.
The importance of family was also reflected in the principal’s address.
“Look through their eyes for just a moment and see clearly what they have done for you – be grateful, plan to show that gratitude,” he said.
College leader and dux Wilson Millar received many awards at the ceremony, including the John Tyson Doneley Memorial Prize for Outstanding Merit across all areas of College Life, the Glen Slater Oratory Award, the Aileen Doyle Prize for Presentation, Speech and Courtesy and the Peter Birmingham Memorial Award for Excellence in Debating. Wilson is looking forward to a career in medicine.
College captain Chloe Crombie received the Humanitas Award, representing the highest accolade in the college for humility and compassion.
Qualities that reflect the Downlands ethos and represent the “perfect” Downlander.
Chloe is planning to study nursing.
On behalf of the college, Mr McIllhatton challenged all graduates.
“Exceed our expectations now – you are ready for the next chapter in your book,” he said.
“Use your one precious life to make our world a better place. Make a difference in all that you do”.