The Worsleys: A legacy of generations

Reg Worsley has been giving to Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School (STS) in one way or another for well over 30 years. At first, it was an annual donation as a parent of two students. Most recently, he decided to include STS in his estate planning. And there’s been a lot of thoughtful giving in between. 

The Worsley family has become an important part of the fabric of our School’s community since Reg’s son, Todd ’88, and daughter, Christy ’86, were students here in the 80s. Reg recalls the decision to send his children to STS when they moved to Calgary from Edmonton:

“I went to private school in the U.K. It was a highlight in my life. We were so impressed with the people at STS. We liked the small classes, especially for Christy. She was a social butterfly, and her previous school wasn’t bringing out the best in her. At an open house in her old classroom, I saw something she had written and it had some spelling mistakes. In fact, all of the students’ writing had spelling mistakes. She was capable of more, if they had only asked for it. Christy needed a more demanding approach and more supervision, and it worked! She ended up with honours. I do not regret enrolling both my kids at STS, they had a wonderful experience." 

Tragically, Christy passed away at 26 years of age from an unexpected illness. Reg honoured her by dedicating funds to an award named The Christy Worsley Excellence in Creative Writing Award, which is offered annually to Middle School students. 

Todd echoes his father’s feelings about STS, and donates generously to scholarships and bursaries, along with Reg, through their newly-developed family fund. Todd’s son and Reg’s grandson, Willem ’21, is now in Grade 11, adding another generation to the Worsley legacy.

Reg reflects on the nearly four decades he’s been involved with the School. “STS is great because of the impressive faculty. The rapport between teachers and students is wonderful. The kids go canoeing, run and participate in outdoor education with their teachers. It’s very special. The entire atmosphere is results-oriented, with encouragement to do your best. It was truly wonderful for my children. They were ready to go into the big wide world upon graduation, and made excellent choices about where to attend university. I also love the campus, the emphasis on academics and outreach in community. I think I got as much out of being a part of the STS community as my kids did!”

And now, Reg has included STS in his estate planning. His inspiration is his daughter. “This is something that she would be pleased with if she were here. It's in memory of her. Obviously, my estate will give to other charities, but STS is up there with the best of them."

Caroline Banadar, he Director of Advancement, expresses what planned giving means to STS. “We are truly grateful to Reg and to families who have left a gift in their wills. Planned Giving is one of the ways that families can make a significant and impactful gift to STS that aligns with their beliefs and values, and how they wish to be remembered. It is an investment in our future and a way for donors to show their commitment to a well-rounded STS education for our students.”