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The graduates, back row L-R: Tzila Lowe-Cohen, Hannah Rounds-Zavitz, Carlisle Beresford Anderson-Frank, Tooba Ishaq Memon, Chisato Kobayashi. Front row L-R: Deanna Scazzariello, Erich Otten, Hairong Liu, Sajida Fazal Chagpar. Missing: Nathalie Thibodeau.

Yesterday afternoon, May 29th, 2024, Rudolf Steiner College Canada graduated ten new Waldorf teachers. The ceremony was held in the music room of the Toronto Waldorf School. There were so many people in the audience that all available chairs were taken and a few people were even standing at the back.

Erich Otten who joined the graduating class this year after having begun his early childhood Waldorf studies with Little Lions in Thunder Bay opened the event with a land acknowledgement. The students performed some eurythmy under the direction of Vadim Guitman.

RSCC founder and current board member, Diana Hughes, gave an effusive acknowledgement and tribute to the recently-retired executive director of RSCC, James Brian. James left in January due to medical reasons. Diana had talked to James recently and reported that he is now recovering in his home in Ottawa but has been advised not to travel, for the time being.

The class entertained with multi-part singing and recorder playing, in between the expressions of thanks and the presentation of the graduating students individually by teachers and mentors Karen Weyler, Les Black and Elisabeth Chomko. One of the more musical students, Carlisle Anderson-Frank, performed his own original composition on the piano.

After all the presentations, thanks and acknowledgements, all the guests were invited to join the graduates and faculty in the seminar room of the college for refreshments and conversation. Here are some photos from the event:

Diana Hughes gave an eloquent tribute to James Brian and his work with the College over the last several years.
RSCT alumna and TWS teacher Katherine Humphrey speaking with Shirley van Houten and Renate Krause before the graduation. Shirley was a founder of both TWS and RSCT. Renate taught eurythmy at TWS and RSCT. Both are now retired.
One of two recorder pieces which the students performed for the graduation.
Carlisle performing his original composition.
Recorder ensemble
Carlisle talking with Renate Krause at the reception after the graduation ceremony
Children – what it’s all about – Tooba with her daughter at the reception
Saji, Tzila, Hannah and Deanna goofing around for the camera after the class picture.