A group of Western Education community members enjoy exploring the London Children's Museum.
Alumni and supporters see through the eyes of a child
While the London Children’s Museum is a top destination for local school field trips, Western Education’s latest alumni event aimed to turn the tables for educators and friends of the faculty encouraging them to see the museum through the eyes of a child.
On May 20, over 100 Western Education alumni and community members gathered for the annual teacher appreciation event to connect with old and new friends and explore the new home of the museum at 100 Kellogg Lane.
Dean Donna Kotsopoulous opened the evening with remarks that expressed gratitude to supporters for the impact of donations and focused on the connection between the faculty and the museum.
“I know we have some of our donors here today and I want to give you my sincere thanks for your ongoing support,” said Kotsopoulos. “Your gifts and investments will go a long way in helping us to transform education and transform lives.”
Kotsopoulos explained how many of the faculty’s projects, including the Mary J. Wright Child and Youth Development Clinic, the Centre for Research and Education on Violence Against Women and Children, and the Centre for School Mental Health, contribute to optimizing health and well-being for children and communities.
“I hope these examples give you an idea of just how much donations matter and the immediate and profound impact they have on our students, our research and our community initiatives,” said Kotsopoulos who then shared opportunities for attendees to support Western Education and the university’s All in campaign.
Reflecting on the connections between Western Education and the London Children’s Museum, Kotsopoulous highlighted the Carol Johnston Scholarship in Early Childhood Education, established by the Ralph M. Barford Foundation in honour of the museum’s founder, Carol Johnston.
“The Carol Johnston Scholarship is awarded to a student in the Primary/Junior program of our Bachelor of Education,” said Kotsopoulos.
“Preference is given to students who have demonstrated leadership through community service, and who have overcome life challenges. I am proud to share that this scholarship has been awarded to Keon Edwards, who exemplifies the passion, perseverance, and leadership required to be a great teacher.”
Keon Edwards, from the Bachelor of Education Class of 2026, then took to the podium to share touching remarks about the impact of the scholarship and his experience at Western Education. Reflecting on early life adversity, Edwards shared his gratitude for receiving a scholarship that alleviated the financial burden on his journey to becoming an educator. He also expressed thanks for the outpouring of support he has received from peers and faculty members – including Kostopoulos who attended many of his Western Mustang football games.
Following the remarks, guests roamed the museum to complete scavenger hunt that required them to find the location of various images within the galleries.
For Niel Dyal, BEd’96 who travelled from Toronto to attend the event with his spouse, the evening was a welcome opportunity to reconnect to Western after a fulfilling career.
“My time at Western Education changed my life and helped to set me up for success in my career as a teacher and principal,” said Dyal.
“It was such a positive experience that I encouraged my daughter to attend; she completed her undergraduate degree at Western as well. Now that I am retired, I am looking forward to having more time to attend alumni events and connect with former classmates.”
