When we talk about Havergal, we aren’t just talking about limestone and ivy. We’re talking about bonds that refuse to fade. They are the sturdy threads that follow an Old Girl/Alum long after she has walked through the oak doors for the last time.
The most compelling part of this community is that it doesn’t matter where Old Girls/Alums are in the world. Whether they are leading in London, innovating in San Francisco or building careers in Hong Kong, the connection remains constant. To support this, the global alumni engagement plan is designed with a simple, grounded principle: connection matters.
Staying connected across continents doesn’t happen by accident. Over the past year, as Executive Director of Advancement, I have taken the show on the road to hubs such as Hong Kong, Shanghai, London, Vancouver, San Francisco and New York City. These gatherings are the cornerstone of the strategy. Whether it’s a small, intimate coffee chat or a large cocktail reception, these moments allow Old Girls/Alums to bridge years and geographic distances to celebrate the distinct Havergal spirit.
This outreach also focuses specifically on the next generation of the community. Melissa Meevis, Alumni Engagement Officer, recently travelled to visit our youngest Old Girls/Alums in their university towns, ensuring they feel supported as they transition into the next chapter of their lives. These visits reinforce the idea that the Havergal network is a foundation they can rely on from the moment they graduate.
It is remarkable to watch these connections unfold at every level. Former classmates greet one another as if only a weekend has passed, instantly launching into shared stories that span decades. Mentors meet mentees, sparking connections that continue to influence personal and professional growth. Running through every conversation is an unmistakable sense of belonging, identity and pride in the community that shaped them. It is moving, authentic and worth protecting.
The strategy extends beyond physical events to intentional, year-round outreach. Through digital platforms (Havergal Connections) and publications (Chronicle), the school shares the stories and milestones of the community to keep Old Girls/Alums informed and inspired regardless of their postal code. This focus on storytelling ensures that the network remains a space for collaboration and lifelong friendship.
The journey of every Old Girl/Alum is unique. The current approach reflects the many paths our Old Girls/Alums take, striving to create connections that feel meaningful whether they are across the street or across the Pacific. One of the most inspiring highlights is the sheer energy and generosity Old Girls/Alums bring to this process. They don’t just attend; they lead. Many volunteer to organize regional events, mentor current students or share their expertise from afar, creating a powerful ripple effect that strengthens the community for generations.
Strategically, the team is mapping engagement to ensure outreach reflects the vast reach and multi-faceted nature of the entire Havergal experience. This isn’t a transactional process; it’s about honouring the friendship, camaraderie and shared history that keep this community together. Our Old Girls/Alums are living proof that no matter how far they go, these bonds endure. And it is an honour to be part of that story.
Our Old Girls/Alums are living proof that no matter how far they go, these bonds endure. And it is an honour to be part of that story.
Published April 2026
2025–26 Issue
This narration was produced using an AI-generated voice.
Some variations in pronunciation may occur.
