The Honorary Korovian 2025 Reunion and the Dedication of the Joan Chamberlin Library
As part of Korowa's 135th anniversary celebrations, the korovian Club hosted a special Honorary Korovian Reunion. The title of Honorary Korovian is now bestowed on Korowa staff who have dedicated 10 years of service to the School. Since its inception in the 1930s, 143 staff members have received this recognition.
Honouring Joan Chamberlin
Among the many remarkable teachers we celebrated was Joan Chamberlin, a teacher who dedicated 4more than 40 years to Korowa. Denise Tunstall (Smith, Class of 1967), one of Joan’s first students, attended. She was in Joan’s first class. In 1960. When Denise became Korowa’s Chaplain, Joan was still teaching, highlighting the lasting bond between student, teacher, and school. Denise took to the podium to read a passage from The Village Blacksmith by Longfellow, a poem that was introduced to Denise by Joan in Grade 5 in 1960.“Thanks, thanks to thee, my worthy friend,For the lesson thou hast taught!
Thus at the flaming forge of lifeOur fortunes must be wrought;Thus on its sounding anvil shapedEach burning deed and thought.”
The Dedication of the Joan Chamberlin Library
The unveiling of a plaque dedicated the Junior School Library in Joan’s name. The idea was first discussed at her retirement, in 2004 but it didn’t come to fruition. Now, 20 years later, thanks to Alumni Manager Ian Robertson’s efforts, the Joan Chamberlin Library is a reality. This dedication honours Joan’s exceptional contributions, ensuring her legacy is forever entwined with Korowa’s history. With Korowa celebrating its 135th anniversary, it was the perfect moment for this tribute. The plaque unveiling not only commemorated her contributions but also reflected the enduring bonds she built with students and staff and is a lasting tribute to Joan’s legacy as an educator. Joan has a passion for literature, a love of which she imparted to generations of Korovians. Featured on the plaque is a quote from one of Joan’s favourite writers that is more than fitting:What we want is to see the child in pursuit of knowledge, and not knowledge in pursuit of the child. – George Bernard Shaw
Honorary Korovian: Joan Chamberlin’s Legacy
From 1960 until her retirement in 2004, Joan left an indelible mark on the school community, particularly as a Year 6 teacher. Her name is often spoken with affection at reunions, with former students recalling her wit, passion, and commitment to ‘her girls.’ During her years at Korowa, Joan taught hundreds of “capable young ladies,” many of whom later had daughters taught by her. Joan’s intelligence, vivacity, and natural curiosity kept her at the forefront of teaching methods. She embraced new pedagogies and technologies with enthusiasm, shaping Korowa’s culture of innovation. Upon her retirement in 2004, her colleagues and students celebrated her exceptional contribution. The school’s Palm Leaf described her as “an icon of the teaching profession,” and her legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of those who worked with her.
Honorary Korovians 2025 Reunion
The evening was a time for reflection, gratitude, and celebration. The sense of community was palpable, with current staff, alumni, and families reconnecting at this reunion. It was a celebration of the impact our Honorary Korovians have had on Korowa, and a tribute to those who have shaped Korowa into what it is today. To all our Honorary Korovians, thank you for your tireless dedication and for leaving an indelible mark on our School.
