Russell De Valois Scholar 2017-18

Russell De Valois Scholar 2017-18

Sponsored by the Class of 1943

 

To my Benevolent Benefactors,

My journey at KIS has almost come to an end. I have 2 months left on this beautiful hill that I have called home for the past 4 years. I would like to begin by expressing my eternal gratitude towards you all for allowing me to continue my education at this institution. Without you, this would not have been a possibility.

Through my years here, I have grown in all aspects of my life. I promised you all that I will be making the most of my time here. With that given opportunity, I am glad to tell you that I had my own TED talk, right here at KIS. It was called “The Confessions of an Existential Nihilist.” You can find the tedtalk by googling my name and the title. This was such an accomplishment for me, as I talked about something close to my heart. Furthermore, my work with the Student Council continued, as we established a study leave for all seniors as they gear up for their IB exams. I am so excited to tell you that I got into Virginia Tech for Computer Engineering! I hope to continue work there and maybe, even work with KFI in Boston to contribute in any way that I can. As I have mentioned before, when I graduate from college and have a job, I hope to establish a scholarship of my own at KIS one day. This place has been such an experience that I am even dreaming of getting on the council! Through your generosity, thoughtfulness, and goodwill, I have had the humble opportunity of having such amazing adventures.

The friends I have made here have become loved ones. I am forever indebted.

Sincerely,

A Student who is forever thankful,

Siddharth Gupta (Class of 2018)

2017-18 Senior Field Trip

Received May 2018

To Kodai Friends International (KFI).

We are some senior students of Kodaikanal International School and through this letter we would like to express our sincere gratitude and thanks to the school management for considering us to receive financial aid for our senior field trip to Andaman.

It was a trip to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a place that we never thought we would be going for our senior field trip. When we first heard about this trip, we were really excited and were eagerly looking forward to the Field Trip week in September. But as days went by and as the dates were approaching, there were a lot of financial confusions and concerns. Thinking about the family situations and our parents, the cost of the trip did mean a lot to us. That is when financial help was requested from everyone possible. Many people started to help by funding our trip.

We truly appreciate everyone’s contributions towards this Field Trip, starting from Mr. Corey and his wife, KIS alumni- particularly the KFI, some KIS parents, other students and everyone else who helped fund our trip wholeheartedly.

On behalf of the class of 2018, we would like to individually thank everyone who has financially helped us. Without your kindness, support and help, many of us would not have had the opportunity to learn, experience and be a part of some of the greatest and most enjoyable moments of our life at KIS.

We feel honored and humbled to receive this financial aid and are extremely grateful for the learning opportunities it has provided us. Once again, thank you for your investment in us. Hopefully in the future too with your continued support and help, students like us will continue to be able to experience learning through such programs.

Warm Regards,

Class of 2018

*Thirteen Seniors received financial aid to allow them to join the Grade 12 Social and Environmental Experience Field Trip to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in October of 2017, supported through KFI’s Social and Environmental Experience Fund.

 

 

Boston Curry Club

Boston Curry Club

A group of alumni were hosted by Dave & Laurie Otten ’69 on Saturday, August 5, 2017 in Boston. The informal gathering enjoyed a potluck lunch with the KFI Board members and like the cultures represented, the cuisine was a blend of American and Indian food – always a good and welcome combination!

Present were: Elinor Potee Nichols ’44, Frank & Martha Manley ’58, David Piet ’63, Mary Coleman Lowry ’64, Stephen Cook ’65, Bob Fletcher ’65, Dave & Laurie Otten ’69, Daryl Miller ’71, Kathleen Nichols ’71, Donn & Julie Nichol Stengele ’80, Jeetu Nanda ’83, Vijay Naidu ’86, Corey Stixrud ’86, Mike Otten ’12, Tyler Stengele ’13, and Jerry & Rocky Nichol former staff.

For more pictures, visit the Gallery – Boston Curry Club 2017.

Our gratitude to Dave and Laurie for hosting so graciously!

DeJong Music Award: Jonathan

DeJong Music Award: Jonathan

May 2017

In the 7 years that I have spent at KIS I have learnt a lot in terms of music and have grown immensely as a musician. From having had the opportunity to learn from such talented teachers and students alike to being a part of so many ensembles to having the chance to start a few of my own. Over the years I have improved vastly in terms of skill and dexterity, but more importantly I have been able to find myself as a musician and as a person.

Thank you for recognizing me and presenting me this award and for acknowledging and appreciating what I was able to contribute as a musician to this school. It reassures me that striving towards a personal passion, despite hardships, will eventually always lead to success. This encouraging gesture will push me to continue, and for that I sincerely thank you.

I cannot thank the school enough for supporting me through this amazing musical journey. And I can say surely, this is just the beginning.

Sincerely Yours,

Jonathan Kulothungan ‘17
Kodaikanal International School