In memory of Dr. Bruce Cumming and Mrs. Marion Cumming

 “Recognize that every interaction you have is an opportunity to make a positive impact on others.”  (Shep Hyken)

Bronte College fondly remembers former art teacher, and Canadian environmentalist, activist and artist Marion Cumming who passed away at the age of 86, in August of this year. Known for her hard work in Canadian heritage conservation and the reconciliation of the First Nations, Marion had a positive impact on all who knew her, including staff and students at Bronte College. We were fortunate to have Marion as an art teacher and her legacy is still very much seen and felt today. Marion redesigned the original Bronte College crest, skillfully penning the emblem to maintain the vision that our school still embraces today, one of global unity, knowledge, and peace.

Her late husband Dr. Bruce Cumming, who passed in 2008, was also an active supporter of First Nation cultures and rights. In addition, Dr. Cumming was a biology professor who supervised Bronte College’s Dean, Dr. Chia-Looi during her PHD, and later joined Bronte College in the 1990s as the school Vice-Principal. He served for many years, guiding, and supporting our teachers and students. Dr. Cumming was known to have had a green thumb and shared gardening tips and tricks with staff and students and contributed to the design of the Bronte College courtyard.

We are grateful for the positive impact Dr. and Mrs. Cumming had on Bronte College, and in memory of their many contributions, we would like to share the meaning behind the various elements of our school crest:

The Maple Leaf
Symbolising Canada

The Wheat Sheaf
Symbolising the harvest of a new beginning and prosperity

The Book
Symbolising the thirst of knowledge and education

The Lamp
Symbolising the light of wisdom, intellect, and philosophy

The waves and compass symbolise that Bronte College is an international institute, welcoming students from all over the world and finally, the Laurel leaves, symbolising solidarity and peace.

Bronte College enjoyed a close relationship with the Cumming family over the years and they will always be cherished by Bronte College. They may have left this world, but they will forever be living in our Memories!

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