Hilarian Sisters,
It is with the greatest pleasure that I greet you and present this report of the activities of the Association during the past year. It has been one of both joy and sorrow both for the Association and for the wider Hilarian community. Last year’s AGM at which there was a disappointing turnout of 25 persons also brought slight sorrow, because Shirley Turpin, president for the last four years said that she could no longer serve on the Executive Committee. It was indeed sad to see her depart from active duty; but she has remained with us every step of the way. We indeed thank her for her continued years of yeoman service to the Association. It was but a few weeks after this that her husband passed away; “Jackie” as he was known was a true Hilarian himself and gave of his time and energies to the Association as recently as Fete 2000.
The Valedictory Service was held at the School Hall on May 11th, the service was conducted by Bishop Rawle Douglin, and was one of the last that he would conduct before his retirement.
The annual luncheon “Back to the Seventies” was an enormous success. Sister Hilarians really seemed to go all out on that day, maybe that era really brought back fond memories for many of them. Many, many thanks to the hard-working committee, especially the decorations committee headed by Linda Serrette. Gillian Bishop and the Signature Collection also played a part in making this day a special one with her aromatherapy display. We extend to her our heartfelt gratitude.
Our Hilarian family was hard hit during this period when several of our sisters experienced both injury and grief in a car accident. Our hearts and sympathies were extended to the Thompson and Dolly families. The Shurland family also reported the death of an aunt; several Hilarians attended the funeral on behalf of the Association. Sympathies were also extended to the Sampson, Ammon, Burke, Cozier and most recently the Hinkson families during this year.
The Independence Day Brunch was once more on the calendar. Camille Forde and her team worked very hard to produce this event. The executive wonders if this is still a worthwhile venture as the rewards are very few for the effort.
In September we experienced a proud moment when the first Hilarian to be ordained as a minister in the Anglican church of Trinidad took place. Marva Kellman stood proudly in her chasuble and stole donated by the association as our first reverend. Several of her former classmates, including the president were part of this momentous occasion. The Hilarian tradition certainly lives on even through the church.
The President was also invited to represent the Association at the Induction Ceremony of the Hall of Excellence of St. Joseph’s Convent and also to a similar ceremony at St. Mary’s College.
The President assisted in the 3-day concert “For the Joy of Music” held by the music department of BAHS in October. The Association also donated towards refreshments for the Sunday performance. Old Hilarian, Hyacinth Nicholls was the featured performer at this event along with the BAHS choir and the Lydian Singers.
In December some of the members of the Executive assisted Gillian Bishop at her first annual Signature collection Bazaar, part proceeds of which also went to the school.
Hilarians continue to make their mark in Trinidad and Tobago. Congratulations were in order for Rhoda Reddock who received two awards from UWI and also to Camille Robinson-Regis who is now the Minister of Legal Affairs. Dana Seetahal has also been elected an Independent Senator.
The new year brought with it the Annual Carnival Fete, which once more proved to be one of the premier events on the Carnival calendar. Kudos certainly go out to Diane Shurland and her extremely hard working team who work tirelessly to ensure that this event continues to excel. This event continues to be the major fund raiser for the Hilarian community.
The St. Hilary’s Day service took place at the Jubilee Hall on January 16, 2002. The feature address was given by the new Minister of Education who promised that monies and plans had been approved for the New Anstey building. Mrs Chang, chairman of the Board of Management gave a brief presentation about the New Anstey building. The service was completed by a sod turning ceremony. Take note Hilarians, we have to pursue a lot of fund raising in order to make this dream a reality.
The now annual QRC/BAHS after Carnival Brunch (Apres Carnaval-la), took place on the Sunday after Carnival. It was indeed a lovely day with superb entertainment and food. Ticket sales from the Hilarian side continue to be a problem. If this event is ever to become a fund-raiser, more participation is needed from the Hilarian community.
Hilarians, I must say that indeed heavy is the head that wears the crown. This my first year as President could not have been accomplished without the support of the members of the Executive and the continued support of the past-president, Shirley Turpin. We still have a lot of work to complete. The database programme and membership projects still have not been completed. We must thank Nicole Grant who has been manning the website tirelessly on her own. I would like to use this opportunity to appeal to you to come forward and give of your time, resources and energies to our alma mater.
Thank you for your continued support.
Non sine pulvere palmam
Respectfully submitted,
Marguerite-Anne Moore
President
April 24, 2002
www.hilarians.com
The Hilarians Web Site is maintained courtesy of Sputnick Services
Page last updated 19th June 2002