For Nancy and Xiaojun Zou, supporting iCAST by naming the “Hall of Fame” is both deeply personal and profoundly hopeful. “We are deeply honoured to support Branksome Hall's vision for the future through iCAST,” says Nancy. The entrance to the Studio Theatre, which tells the story of student accomplishment through archival playbills and photos, will now bear the Zou family name.

For Nancy and Xiaojun Zou, supporting iCAST is both deeply personal and profoundly hopeful. Their connection to Branksome began with their eldest daughter, Connie, who graduated in 2020. She received outstanding support from the school, enabling her to attend her dream destination, the Berklee College of Music, for music production and engineering.

The family says their gift is one way “to sincerely appreciate the school’s dedication and do our best to ensure Cathy [in Grade 11] and other girls continue to grow and succeed.”

What inspires them most is not just the innovation iCAST will unlock, but the kind of character it aims to build. “What truly excites us about iCAST is the emotional and intellectual foundation this space will build. It is a powerful affirmation that Branksome Hall is committed to nurturing not just bright minds, but also brave hearts. The school is setting the pace by focusing on the courage to innovate,” they add.

“True leadership demands resilience, creativity, and the ability to embrace uncertainty—qualities that the entrepreneurial environment of iCAST will cultivate.”

Cathy already experienced an “aha” moment during an interdisciplinary project, discovering that “innovative thinking isn't about avoiding mistakes; it's about persistence and bouncing back stronger after a setback. This resilience is the true breakthrough.”

Cathy is especially excited about “the ability to collaborate and share ideas with girls across different grades.” Her parents believe iCAST will offer “a low-stakes environment to test her wildest ideas,” and that “this freedom to take thoughtful risks will be essential to building her intellectual courage.”

“Ultimately, iCAST will prepare students to be difference-makers by nurturing their empathy and equipping them with the skills to translate their generous spirits into positive, real-world impact,” they say.

“We are committed to supporting this legacy of excellence for all Branksome Hall students.”

Learn more about our latest Naming Opportunities here or contact Claudia Metelsky, Director, Campaign and Development, Advancement and Community Engagement.