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Dedication of the Memorial for the Janet Comtois Stirn Collection

"Reading makes me feel happy, sad, silly and curious. I am glad that these books are in the Library at Staten Island Academy." Alice '14

"I love books because books are sometimes so interesting. I read them at night, in the day and in the morning. The books I like the most are chapter books. I like my books nice and long." Nick '15

"I like books because they are fun to read. You can imagine you're in a different place like King Arthur's round table, scary places like haunted houses and different habitats." Emma '15

"Books are not only pleasurable but they enhance your knowledge enormously." Leyla ‘14

May 23, 2004 - Leyla, Emma, Nick and Alice's love of books was echoed by other students who spoke during a ceremony to dedicate the Memorial for the Janet Comtois Stirn Collection on May 23, 2004. It was fitting that children share their feelings about books and reading because Mrs. Stirn was so deeply committed to children and the written word.

The Memorial for Janet Comtois Stirn is located at the main entrance to the Stanley Library. The distinctive glass cases flank the gateway to the intellectual and academic heart of the school with displays of Mrs. Stirn's favorite books, family photographs, memorabilia, and books purchased by the Stirn Memorial Fund. The Stirn family established the fund in 2003.

The dedication program began after welcoming remarks by Head of School Diane J. Hulse. John J. Fafian '83, President of the Board of Trustees, spoke eloquently of his remembrances of Mrs. Stirn and her dedication to the Academy. Other speakers included Mrs. Stirn's daughters Suzanne Ainsley '72 and Caroline Crane '83, who spoke on behalf of the Stirn Family. Alice B. Diamond, chair of the memorial fund, F. Graham Brown, Jr., head of school 1989-1996, and faculty members Linda Coleman and Roger Ahern also spoke fondly of Mrs. Stirn and her legacy of service and generosity.

Grade Four students under the director of conductor Yvette Wheatley provided a musical interlude by singing a lovely rendition of "Child of the World." After the ceremony, a reception was held.

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To learn more about supporting Mrs. Stirns legacy, please contact the Development Office at 718-303-7813.