When I first heard of the Fortis Walkway Legacy Initiative (FWLI), I was captivated by its brilliance. The concept struck a deep chord in me. As an Old Boy of Kingston College (KC), I understood immediately that this initiative was more than a fundraising endeavour; it was a bridge—a bridge connecting generations, preserving stories, and immortalizing the spirit that binds us all. Through the FWLI, we now have the opportunity to take the intangible emotions that we associate with our time at KC and transform them into something physical, lasting, and deeply meaningful.
The FWLI offers every member of the Fortis family—past and present—an opportunity to inscribe their names, alongside their years of association with KC, on brick pavers that will be installed in walkways on both school campuses. For me, this initiative was an irresistible chance to honour my own KC journey, as well as those of my brothers, George and Garth. Together, we share a bond that was strengthened and shaped by the values instilled in us during our years at KC. To see our names etched into the walkway, immortalized side by side, fills me with indescribable pride.
I will never forget the day I had the honour of placing our plaque into the Fortis Walkway. The act was both personal and historic. As I knelt to set the plaque in place, I was overcome with emotions. It felt as though time stood still, and I was momentarily transported—an out-of-body experience where I became acutely aware of the essential and symbolic enormity of the occasion. It was more than laying a brick; it was laying a cornerstone of our collective history, an enduring piece of a legacy that will outlast us all.
The beauty of the Fortis Walkway Legacy Initiative lies in its dual purpose. On one hand, it provides a deeply personal way for Old Boys, teachers, and their families to contribute to the school. On the other, it is a bold and visionary step toward ensuring KC’s continued growth and sustainability. The initiative not only reflects the pride and unity of the Fortis family but also serves as a testament to the transformative power of collective action.
As Kingston College approaches its centenary, the FWLI is a fitting tribute to a school that has stood as a beacon of excellence for nearly 100 years. It is remarkable to think that KC, with its humble beginnings, has grown into an institution of such stature—producing leaders, innovators, and changemakers across generations. This initiative is the perfect way to celebrate our centenary while looking toward the next century. It serves as the launchpad for an endowment fund that will secure KC’s future, ensuring that it continues to thrive as a place of learning, camaraderie, and personal growth.
What makes this initiative particularly unique is its inclusivity. The FWLI is designed to welcome participation from all corners of the Fortis family. Whether you’re an Old Boy, a current student, a teacher, or the family member of a deceased Old Boy or teacher, the initiative provides a space for you to contribute to the KC legacy. It is especially moving to think about families who can honour their loved ones in this way—ensuring that their stories and contributions to KC live on.
For many of us, the emotional connection to KC runs deep. From the first day we entered the gates, we became part of a brotherhood that transcends socioeconomic backgrounds, geographic locations, and even time itself. This bond is difficult to describe to those outside the Fortis family, but it is something every KC man feels profoundly. The FWLI gives us a way to commemorate this connection, to celebrate the pride we feel in being part of the KC story, and to contribute to the school’s enduring legacy.
The FWLI is also poised to become a significant point of interest for visitors to Kingston. With the ongoing renaissance of the city, the walkways will serve as more than just a symbol of KC pride; they can be a tourist attraction, drawing alumni, families, and history enthusiasts alike. Imagine future generations walking these pathways, reading the names and years of those who came before, and feeling inspired by the sense of continuity and purpose that Kingston College represents.
To the visionary coordinators and implementers of this initiative, particularly the group of Old Boys who entered KC in 1965, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and gratitude. You have given the Fortis family a priceless gift—a way to honour the past, celebrate the present, and invest in the future. Your work has been nothing short of transformational, and you have set a standard of excellence that embodies the very spirit of KC.
I urge every member of the Fortis family to support this initiative wholeheartedly. By purchasing a brick paver, you are not just leaving your mark; you are contributing to a legacy that will endure for centuries. The Fortis Walkway Legacy is more than a project; it is a movement—a movement that ensures Kingston College continues to stand tall as a bastion of excellence, unity, and resilience.
Together, let us pave the way for Kingston College’s future, brick by brick, story by story, and name by name. Let us ensure that the Fortis spirit—unyielding and indomitable—continues to shine brightly as KC embarks on its next 100 years.
Fortis Cadere Cedere Non Potest!