Standing before a sea of students, parents, employees and alums, Principal McCallum couldn't help but smile. “It is a very special day for me personally as this is my first Installation ceremony—an occasion I will surely remember for many years to come.” In her remarks, she elegantly expressed how although Branksome is a school deeply rooted in tradition, it is also incredibly innovative and forward-looking. “You, the next generation of leaders at Branksome Hall, who are also embarking on your year of leadership, carry a legacy that is both rich and revolutionary,” said Grace. “This legacy is not something that simply rests in dusty history books or framed portraits on our walls—or even a brooch on a lapel. It’s alive. It’s everything that is Branksome Hall. It breathes through every one of us, guiding us, inspiring us and pushing us to do even better.”

Her words painted a vivid picture of the school's past, and called forth the memory of one of Branksome Hall’s most influential figures: Edith Read, the school’s second Principal. The audience listened intently, captivated by Principal McCallum’s retelling of the story of a woman who refused to accept the limits placed on her and her community. “This is more than just a story of civic engagement—it’s a story of innovation, leadership and courage,” said Grace, encouraging all to lead as Read did.

Grace then turned her attention to the challenges facing today’s generation of students. From climate change to social justice issues, she acknowledged that today’s leaders will need to navigate an increasingly complex world. In her speech, Grace laid out three key qualities she believes future leaders must possess: human-centered leadership, the ability to navigate complexity and a commitment to innovation. Emphasizing the importance of empathy and relationship-building, she reflected, “Leadership today isn’t just about making decisions or about a bottom line; it’s about understanding people. It’s through listening that we build relationships, and through relationships, we build trust. And trust is the foundation upon which all great leadership is built.” 

Grace also touched on the need for students to embrace uncertainty. “The issues you will face won’t come with simple answers or quick solutions. You will need to dig deep, collaborate openly and think critically,” she said. In a nod to Branksome International Baccalaureate (IB) programme, she noted how this curriculum prepares students to understand that there can be multiple truths and perspectives on an issue. Grace pointed to this year’s guest speaker and Branksome alum, Heather WRIGHT Deluce’03, as an example of someone who covers those many perspectives in the work she does as a journalist.

Principal McCallum’s speech culminated in a call for innovation. Highlighting Branksome’s focus on building spaces for creativity and experimentation, she pointed to projects such as the Karen L. Jurjevich Innovation Centre and Studio Theatre (iCAST), Centre for Strategic Leadership and the Chandaria Research Centre. “At Branksome, our commitment to innovation is clear. We are not just learning for the future—we are building it,” she noted. 

As the ceremony drew to a close, Principal McCallum asked students to reflect on their roles as future leaders. “What kind of leaders will you be?” she asked. “How will you honour the past while innovating for the future? Because the world needs you—leaders who listen, who care deeply and who are unafraid to challenge the status quo.” 

As she concluded her remarks, Principal McCallum called on the newly installed student leaders to “continue to honour the legacy of the remarkable women who came before us by being the bold, empathetic and innovative leaders that the world so desperately needs.” For Branksome Hall, the future looks bright as its community continues to build on a legacy of leadership and innovation that has spanned more than 120 years.