Founder’s Day 2003

Being a Stephanian, no matter whether as a senior or junior member, makes a person a part of a more than century old culture, a legend. While accepting the pride of belonging to such an elite society, it is naturally important to understand and appreciate its heritage. In order to do this, St Stephen’s College maintains as one of the red-letter days of its calendar- Founders Day. 7th December, the death anniversary of Revd. Samuel Scott Allnutt, member of the Cambridge Mission and founding Principal, is kept apart as a day to remember Allnutt and all others who through their vision, effort and commitment have made St Stephen’s what it is today. In tune with College tradition, Founder’s Day was celebrated this year too with much ado and enthusiasm. Preparations began well in advance with the auditorium being spruced up with a fresh coat of polish and rows of potted plants adorning its sides. The DDay began with a worship service at the College Chapel led by Revd. Valson Thampu. He spoke about the early days of the College and the need to recognise the time and effort put in by many to nurture and build up our institution. Following the service, a sumptuous breakfast was served to the congregation on the Chapel lawns. The function in the auditorium began at 10.30 am with the traditional academic procession led by the Principal, Dr Anil Wilson, the Chief Guest for the day-Mr. Siddharth Shriram and Revd Father Ian Weatherall of the Cambridge Brotherhood, the missionaries who set up College. Despite the fact that it was a Sunday, the auditorium was packed with junior members, senior members (retired as well as those currently teaching), their families as well as alumni. Dr Anil Wilson took the dais and paid tribute to all those senior members who had toiled effortlessly for the College by mentioning their names and the duration of their service. Following this, prayers were offered and the strains of the popular hymn “O God our help in ages past Our hope for years to come” filled the auditorium as the gathering expressed their gratitude to the Almighty for making College reach great heights and blessing all those who have been and are still involved with it. Rachel Philip of Ist English then read a chapter from the book of Ecclesiastes in the Holy Bible. The Chief Guest for the day Mr. Siddharth Shriram, President, Honda SIEL, Chairman, Daikin Shriram Air Conditioners Ltd, Founder, Delhi Policy Group and MD, Usha International Ltd was a Stephanian who did English Honours in the years 1964-67. He was reminiscent about his days in College - late night bridge games, frequent trips to Miranda House and beer parties to boot. On a more serious note, he spoke about the importance of a strong civil society and the need to rebuild democracy so as to combat terrorism, crime and corruption. He stressed on the values that the youth should imbibe to take the nation to greater heights. The emotion in his voice as he wrapped up his speech, was clear proof of his love for his alma mater and his sensitivity towards issues plaguing the nation. Revd. Father Ian Weatherall concluded the ceremony by giving the benediction. The gathering moved to the mess lawns for refreshments and voices and laughter filled the air as senior members and alumni recollected the good old days.

Anjana Alex
I Economics