Category: News

Colette Richardson ’16

Colette, you went to New York after York House graduation in 2016. Why New York?

I went to New York for the first time for my thirteenth birthday and it was love at first sight. There is a constant heartbeat to the city that pulses this energy of creativity and opportunity that truly makes me feel like anything is possible. I’m also very much a “places to go, people to see” kind of person, so the culture of constantly being on the go was a really good fit for me. Mostly though, as a performer with an eye on a professional musical theatre career, there’s really nowhere else to be. New York is the heart of the musical theatre industry, with new works being developed and performed here every day. I really wanted to be a part of that, so this was really the ideal place to try and get started.

Describe some of your experiences over the past two years.

Coming to a post-secondary institution that was less academically focused was definitely a shift (as was re-introducing the male species into my social circles), but it really allowed me to meet people from very different backgrounds from me and learn about how they grew up and it’s really allowed me to look at how much my experiences shape how I see the world.

 The Integrated Conservatory Program at AMDA was an amazing sandbox to hone my performance skills and really work on mastering the specificity that separates the “hobby” performer from the professional. I have had the opportunity to work with so many amazing professionals, ranging from Casting Directors who worked on Enchanted and Dirty Dancing, to director/choreographers who performed in national companies of A Chorus Line. I even had one professor who dubs over sound for Tom Hanks when he isn’t available to fix sound issues in his movies.

In addition, being in the city has allowed me to gain access to so many amazing resources that have helped me truly stay in touch with my art and my craft. The Lincoln Centre Performing Arts Library is my favourite place in the city, and has an extensive research collection including original scripts, archival footage and handwritten letters and notes by some of the Theatre’s greats. It has been amazing being able to spend a day reading through original materials from some of the most famous shows ever written, as well as getting first hand access to scripts and scores from some of the most recent work on Broadway, all because I’m a student and young professional in the city. I’ll spend entire days in the library just reading and watching because there is so much to learn and so many wonderful resources to discover. Not to mention being able to see dozens of Broadway shows in their original productions and meet some of the performers at the stage door. Being in the heart of the industry is so incredibly inspiring, I feel so lucky to be able to take every day to learn and grow and soak in what the city has to offer.

My most exciting project though was probably the show I produced in Vancouver when I came home last summer. Thanks to some amazing support from YHS, myself, some other amazing alumnae and some incredibly talented young Vancouver artists mounted a full scale production of Jason Robert Brown’s “13” the musical, which received rave reviews and  played several sold out productions. It was the most challenging project I’ve ever taken on, as I produced and starred in the production, but also one I’m most proud of. It was challenging and stressful, but ultimately so rewarding as it really proved to myself and to the Vancouver theatre community that young artists really are capable of anything. It was a really empowering experience and it’s really propelled me into some of my next projects in New York.

Have you stayed connected to the YHS network in New York?

I was absolutely thrilled to discover that the welcoming family community of YHS extends far beyond the walls of the school and the girls that I went to school with. I went to a “New Yorkies” meet up last spring, and was honestly a little nervous. I didn’t know any of the other alumnae because they had all graduated years before I’d even started, but I was so comforted realizing that it really doesn’t matter when you graduated, if you’re a Yorkie, you’re family. The other women were so incredibly welcoming and interested in learning about what I was working on, and shared really amazing advice and stories about being so far from home and navigating as a Canadian in the US, as well as having incredibly inspiring stories about their own exciting adventures. They even made sure to send me home with all the leftovers, because they wanted to make sure that the college student had plenty to eat in the dorms. I am so grateful and thankful to be a part of such an amazing and wonderful community. I can’t wait for the next event so I can bring some of my friends from my years at YHS who graduated after me and recently joined me in New York along with me and show them just how powerful and loving the Yorkie network can be.

What are you currently working on?

Soon after graduating, a group of friends and I submitted the paperwork to incorporate a state not for profit theatre company in New York: Our Time Players. I’m currently the sitting Chair of the organization. We wanted to provide a platform to empower emerging artists finishing up their studies to take control of their artistic careers. What better way to gain experience and exposure than to collaborate with other talented young people to create engaging and meaningful art that matters to you. We’ve got a season of cabarets, full scale musicals and plays lined up that tell stories that are immediately relevant and important to young people. Especially in this global climate, the voices of young people are becoming more important and powerful than ever before, and we want to harness our power as the next generation of theatre makers to prove that it doesn’t matter how young you are, or how little there might be on your resume, you have a powerful and valuable artistic voice that is worth paying attention to.

In addition, I’ve been working on several smaller acting jobs. I’ve become the face for a campaign encouraging young people to vote, done some extra work on a couple of well known web series and have done several cabaret gigs, and am looking forward to more in the near future!

As you finish up your two years at AMDA, talk to us about your immediate goals?

I’m currently working towards applying for my O1 Visa, which would allow me to continue to develop my career in New York for another three years. I’m hoping I’ll be able to score some principal regional theatre jobs, and lead Our Time Players into a successful inaugural season, and hopefully several more. I’m very excited to see what possibilities exist for me in the near future. I’m at this stage in my career where there are so many possibilities and I can’t wait to see what in the next couple of years have in store!

If you’re interested in following my journey you can check out my website http://coletterichardsontheatre.com/ or my YouTube Channel

To follow the adventures of Our Time Players, check out our website https://www.ourtimeplayers.org/ or support us by donating to our crowdfunding campaign https://www.gofundme.com/ourtimeny

Derek Francis, husband of much loved York House teacher, Joanne Francis, has set up a fund, The Joanne and Derek Francis Scholarship, to assist a student who otherwise would not have the opportunity to attend the school and experience a York House education. Joanne taught at York House from 1979 until 2001 and is remembered as a most dedicated and energetic teacher and colleague and a great friend.

Derek, also an educator, shared with Joanne a deep commitment to education as well as membership in the YHS Legacy Society. He had appointments at UBC, University of Manitoba, Douglas College, and is Vice President Emeritus, Kwantlen Polytechnic University after working there for 35 years. Derek understands the significance of education for young women and wants to encourage them to take on leadership roles for the benefit of all. The gift of this scholarship truly reflects Joanne and Derek’s thoughtful philanthropy and will continue their legacy of commitment to education for students now and for future generations of Yorkies.

Alumnae Association President Joanne Lee-Young ’90, one of Joanne’s many students commented, “Our scholarship students exemplify the values Joanne nurtured in us. It’s very fitting she will be connected to them through this new scholarship. I know how much Joanne cared about YHS students who worked hard, were mindful of the school motto, Not for Ourselves Alone, and gave back to the community. She always championed them.”

It is well over a year ago that family, friends, alumnae, staff, both past and present, gathered and overflowed from the Columbus Residence Chapel in Vancouver, to celebrate the life of Franny as she was fondly known. Her husband Derek, who was married to Joanne for 48 years, shared the touching story of his first encounter with the young woman with the sparkling blue eyes. Alumnae shared heartfelt stories of the impact she had on their lives as a teacher and friend.

Throughout her career at York House, Franny enthusiastically took on a variety of roles and guided countless students through Physical Education, English, Journalism, and YHS Chronicle (yearbook) classes. She bridged the print and digital world with her students, who experienced the learning curve with her, and were inspired by her patience and generosity of spirit.

After retirement, Joanne kept in touch with many of her students throughout her life, attending class reunions, sharing her numerous travel experiences and her avid participation in the 55+ BC Games as well as her passion for two miniature Schnauzers, Tuki and Tyler. Joanne and Derek, you both continue to be a great inspiration to us all. Thank you!

If you would like to contribute to The Joanne and Derek Scholarship fund in memory of Joanne Francis, click on the link below. Under designation, select the Joanne and Derek Scholarship fund and include your tribute instructions under donation information.

York House School Foundation Scholarship Funds

For information about the YHS Legacy Society, click the link below:

York House School Legacy Society

Sherry’s connection to York House began with her mother, Audrey (Wilson) Robson’s alumnae tales from the early years of the school. In 1961, as the youngest York House student, she had an auspicious beginning with the chance to unveil the first building block of the Junior School with head girl Victoria (Frost) Vogrin ‘61 and Mr. H. R. MacMillan.

Twelve years later, after playing a vital role on the student council since her arrival in the Senior School, Sherry was elected Head Girl 1972-73 and gained the respect and affection of the YHS community. After graduation, Sherry’s leadership role continued as Alumnae Association President in 1974, a role she would take on two more times as her passion and commitment for York House evolved.

When her daughter Devon started kindergarten in 1989, she became a devoted class parent, spending countless hours volunteering at the school. Sherry contributed in every imaginable way including Alumnae Representative to the Board, Class Parent, Alumnae Class Rep, YHS Foundation trustee, phonathon volunteer, band trip chaperone and more. In 1996, Sherry’s exceptional dedication and Yorkie spirit were recognized when she received the Alumnae Special Achiever award for Community Service. As a special tribute, the alumnae introduced a new award named “The Sherry Robson Taylor Spirit Award,” which is presented each year to a student who emulates Sherry’s enthusiasm, energy, and love of York House.

Sherry’s Yorkie spirit and enthusiasm led her to be the initiator of many firsts. In 1993 she inspired and co-chaired the first ever York Rose Ball and in 1998, it was a highlight of the school’s “Celebrate Sixty” festivities. In 1995 she chaired the first New Parents’ dinner and co-convened the Fall Market (1997-9). After co-chairing the York Rose Ball again in 2002, she became an Honorary member of the Parents’ Association and agreed to chair the ball in 2007 for the school’s 75th birthday.

In 2002, Sherry started a long standing YHS tradition, by hosting a luncheon each year for the grads at the University Women’s Club of Vancouver at Hycroft. Her great-grandmother Dr. Evelyn Farris had founded the club in 1907 along with eight other university women and what a perfect location for the grads to be welcomed into the YHS Alumnae Association.

Always an outstanding example, Sherry constantly modelled the school motto, “Not for Ourselves Alone”, both in the greater community and at York House.  During her tenure as President, the Alumnae Association Scholarship, close to Sherry’s heart, was initiated and grew to become a full scholarship in 2006. Sherry also managed the Margaret Barbeau Alumnae Uniform Shop for many years to raise additional funds for the YHS Alumnae Scholarship. Sherry was a founding member of the YHS Legacy Society to ensure the future for Yorkies and generations to come. In 2012, Sherry was awarded Honorary Executive Member of the Alumnae Association for her years of service.

Asked during a 75th birthday interview what made her so passionate about the school, she responded, “The lifelong friendships, the camaraderie, the school’s values and traditions and the confidence it instills in its graduates. I’m really proud of the accomplishments and success of York House alumnae in academic, athletic, and artistic areas and the way Yorkies hold true to the school’s motto Not for Ourselves Alone. I have been so very fortunate to have a relationship with this unbelievable school. My memories are irreplaceable–how lucky am I. Thank you York House.”

After living her life to the absolute fullest, Sherry, a most beloved member of the York House community passed away on April 10, 2018. On Saturday May 5, family, friends, alumnae, YHS parents and staff past and present gathered at York House School to celebrate her amazing life. She will be remembered for her tremendous strength and courage, her welcoming smile, trademark sense humour and fun, golden hearted generosity, and unstoppable spirit. Sherry was never dampened by the challenges that came her way and never allowed her long struggle with Lupus to limit what she could accomplish.

Click here to read Sherry (Robson) Taylor’s obituary.

If you would like to make a donation in Sherry’s memory, click the links below:

The YHS Alumnae Scholarship

The BC Lupus Society 

Anna at the WNorth launch in London, England

Anna, when did you graduate from YHS and describe your career journey?

I graduated in 2003. My journey really started at PwC in the CRM and Customer Experience space for the Advisory line of business. I shifted into more in-depth growth programs such as Sales, Marketing, and Insight Methodologies across consulting and technology, more recently heading up the Professional Services Team for EMEA and co-leading the Global team at LinkedIn. My current work, post-Microsoft acquisition of LinkedIn, has been advising existing startup advisory work and a shift into supporting consultancy to enterprise businesses around operations and digital brand. It has been both refreshing and challenging to be my own boss for a few months. Parallel to paid work, I volunteered my time and expertise to WNORTH’s London launch which has been an invaluable personal and professional enhancing experience.

We were very pleased to have you at YHS last year when you gave a presentation on building your digital brand online.  Where are you currently working?

I am currently a freelance consultant, about to incorporate my services under the name Cocoon Advisory Limited. While I have not ruled out going ‘back’ to a large tech business, I have thoroughly enjoyed the day to day mixed engagements across startup world and enterprise world. Drawing energy from how I impact people and organizations, my more popular workshops have been presentation skills: verbal and written as well as my two-hour business priorities focus group.

Shirin Foroutan ’94, centre left, participating on the panel

You’re now based in the UK; do you get an opportunity to connect with other YHS Alumnae?

Being based in London has allowed me to have close Yorkie friends nearby, as well as forging new links such as getting to learn from the fabulous and incredibly insightful Shirin Foroutan from the Class of 1994.  Shirin recently kindly agreed to speak at the London Launch of WNORTH on June 14th at Canada House . Shirin was and is everything we talk about when it comes to true leadership – a true role model. I felt proud to call Shirin my friend, and someone who could be so impressive and yet so approachable. The power of the YHS Network.

You’re passionate about women in leadership and empowering other women. Tell us a little more about that professional journey.

I believe that the future of cities, of business and of living is through a healthy dose of diversity of thought. More recently the UK Government required that businesses report on their gender pay gap. I don’t think this is simply a matter of pay, this challenge goes deep into a multi-faceted problem. Drawing on societal norms and the early days of education, socialization of how boys and girls are supported through their schooling has played a huge role in what core skills are represented when we class students by gender. And from schooling all the way to talent pipeline and progression in the working world, lacking skill sets has led to gender dominated industries, a challenge that means diversity of thought is not available let alone championed. Gender is just one part of the conversation, and in fact, as a society, we need to be more open minded and welcoming to all makeups of people. Recognizing unconscious bias is the start to that conversation and if I can be someone that changes my language for the betterment of my community and someone that leads by example, diversity of thought should be a thread we weave throughout our systems for a better together future.

We paired you successfully with a young alumna, Mercedes Fogarassy from the Class of 2013 who was interested in the same career path. How has that mentorship relationship evolved?

Working with Mercedes has been rewarding. I am a mentor to her just as much as she is to me. Reverse mentorship is the key to someone who is experienced but needs a fresh outlook on how the marketplace is changing. We, Mercedes and I, learn equal amounts as we share in depth conversations about career pathing, skills development and goals (both personal and professional). We have a healthy balance of open/honest and constructive work alongside the more emotional side of how we grow as people. I have loved the YHS link to Mercedes as so many of my other mentee/mentor relationships have been derived from my workplace (a slightly different commercial focus) and/or family-friends (a much more personally-geared mentorship.

When are you back in Vancouver again?

I am hoping to be back again in September for a fellow Yorkie’s wedding and some potential client meetings. The beautiful part about supporting global and multinational businesses is that travel and mobile working go hand in hand, allowing for some good personal visits paired with knowledge and skills of how to adapt to how different regions do business. ‘Always be learning’ was said a lot at LinkedIn and traveling for work and pleasure allows that to be my reality.

 Rae-Maryse at the Celebration of Scholars event on April 19th, 2018

What can you recall about your first introduction to York House? 

It was evident that I would be challenged to push beyond my limitations while exploring and discovering my personal potential. The teachers at York House were always on hand to provide extra tutorials outside of regular class time and it is this type of dedication and care that provided me the opportunity to excel academically.

Describe how you felt when you were awarded the June Brown Cliff Scholarship?

I was ecstatic and completely overjoyed. This is not an opportunity I have taken for granted nor is it one that can be easily measured. I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank the Cliff family and the foundation sponsors for making a significant difference in my life.

What was your first day of school like?

I will always remember the first day I walked into the school through the cafeteria (if you know me I love food and I had to check out the menu). I vividly remember that day. I was nervous and frankly overwhelmed. As I walked through a student approached me and with a big friendly smile she said “Hi! Are you new to Grade 8?” I answered a small “yes” and was pleasantly surprised when she opened her arms and gave me a big hug. The sense of belonging I felt then still resonates today.

How did you immerse yourself in the YHS community?

I served as class president, student ambassador, sports head, and had the honour of being elected by my peers and teachers to serve the student body as Head Girl. York House offers many extracurricular activities that are so important for building team and communication skills.

You graduated in 2009. What did you do after YHS?

I hold a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Accounting from Thompson Rivers University, and I am currently completing a Masters of Professional Accounting at the University of Saskatchewan. I am scheduled to write the Common Final Examination (CFE) in September 2018 to designate as a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA).

Volunteering and giving back is important to you. Describe your work with Big Sisters.

Volunteering with Big Sisters has equally benefited me as it has my little sister. I have a great desire to empower young girls to reach their full potential by cultivating individual strengths, building resilience to social pressures that impact body image, and helping to nurture a positive social environment. It has been a rewarding two years.

You were recently back at York House for our Celebration of  Scholars event. What were your impressions?

It was a privilege to witness the words shared by the strong, kind, and courageous young women at YHS. It still stands true that every girl is encouraged to continue her pursuit of excellence in academics and character and reach beyond her limitations. I still feel a strong sense of community as I spoke with current and alumnae, staff, and administration.

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