Good afternoon, ODs
I would like to invite you and your partners to the launch of the
Russell Adams Scholarship at the Mitre on Thursday, 19 April 2018 at 18h00. This extraordinary initiative, led by the Class of 1987 in association with Bishops Trust, is one of which all ODs should be proud.
As many of you know, Russell Adams, (1987G) is no stranger to the global cricket fraternity, having years of international cricketing and sports management experience. He has recently been appointed as the Tournament Director for the T20 Global League. He has had leadership roles with the Royal Challengers Bangalore and the Kolkata Knight Riders. Locally, he worked with the Western Province Cricket Association and the Cape Cobras. In short, he is the embodiment of "
principled excellence" to which Bishops boys should aspire.
Despite growing up during apartheid, Russell was always destined for greatness, the gateway to which, we like to believe, was his access to a Bishops education and its empowering environment.
At his 30 year reunion last year, Russell shared his story. His journey began at Heathfield Primary School, a difficult environment within which to pursue his passion for cricket, then white dominated sport. With support of several Bishops families, Russell and his brother were afforded a Bishops education.
After having left College, he was able to build a stellar career cricket administration and leadership.
Although Bishops would like to take all the credit for Russell's success, we cannot and should not. The late 1980s were certainly not halcyon days.
But what Bishops can take credit for, is that it created as best as it could at the time, an environment within which Russell was able to manifest his talent and follow his dreams. That is the purpose of a school like Bishops. As ODs, we know the tremendous benefits that a Bishops education represents.
The role of a values-based life-style in the development of fully rounded and fulfilled men is vital. We know that boys, through their experience of the best that Bishops has to offer, will grow into fulfilled and responsible men. Moreover, a Bishops education affords one access to a global network of ODs in all spheres of life and endeavour. Russell is mindful of the immediate and enduring benefits of a Bishops education.
That said, Russell has never forgotten his roots and continues to support Heathfield Primary School. This is important. His motivational story started an important conversation amongst his peer group. The conversation spurred action. The Russell Adams Scholarship was born.
The purpose of the Scholarship is to enable talented boys from Heathfield Primary School a life changing education. The Class of 1987 aim to raise R7 million. This fund will enable a child from Heathfield Primary School to attend the College on a full Scholarship, which will be managed as part of the Hamilton Mvelase Bursary Fund.
I hope to see you at the
launch of the Russell Adams Scholarship to support the Class of 1987's bold initiative. If you are unable to attend the launch, but would like to support the Russell Adams Scholarship, please find further details
here.
Have a great weekend.
Pro fide et patria