Thanksgiving Speeches

I’m Sam, and I’m Sophie, and we are, or were, the College Captains for 2023. It’s our privilege to be here tonight, as we reflect on the year .

I remember how, back in 2018, as an eager Year 7 kid with a shiny new camera drone, I was approached to help film highlights of the Primary Athletics. 

Although at the time I was excited for a day off, reflecting on this five years later, I believe it’s these small moments that I am most grateful for in my time at school. Moments where students are given the opportunity to use their talents to serve the community. 

In reflecting on my six years at this school, the most significant experiences have always been catalysed and encouraged by the staff here. Teachers who go out of their way to support us, challenge us, and acknowledge us. Christ-like leadership is found here, in service. 

For the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.

This lived-out service, in teaching us, praying over us, answering our chemistry questions at 11pm at night has been the example modelled to us, and to the student body, of leadership and of love.

Going to a Christian school is a strange experience, where faith is taught, and sometimes presumed. But it has been a real blessing to grow in an environment that encourages trust in God, surrounded by people who so genuinely care about your relationship and standing with Jesus.

The environment Donvale provided me is such that I feel I have owned my faith. By the influence of those around me, it's not felt forced or stigmatised. Instead, the steady path guided by those whom I trust and respect has encouraged curiosity and led me naturally to a personal relationship with Christ.

And so our own experience of leadership this year, and throughout our time at school, has been shaped by this. To use our gifts to serve others, in a way to influence culture. 

I remember my first time ever speaking at an assembly in Year 11, I was convinced I was going to either pass out or throw up. I was giving a devotion, and I knew it was important. And so, even though I do not have a gift in public speaking, or at least confidence in it, I had trust in a God who sustains, so I got up the front and spoke. 

Somehow, I got through the devotion, aware of my own incompetence and still very nauseous, but amazed at God’s provision in my weakness. This is the God that we serve, one who is good, and perfect in our own imperfection. 

From starting Year 7, through the gruelling years of online school, to entering VCE and now graduating, Donvale has been a place where we have grown in our knowledge of Maths, English, friendships, and hardships.

But most importantly it has been a place that has grown us in understanding and knowledge of a God who serves, and loves, and leads us towards righteousness.

That is what makes Donvale special. And it is a service and love shown by the community - the staff, parents, and students - that only makes sense when you know what inspires it. And that is, a God who serves, and a God who loves, even when that doesn’t make sense.

A love that is undeserved, a grace that is insurmountable, and a hope that anchors and defines us.