As September ushers in the familiar rhythms of a new school year, the changing seasons mirror the cycles of renewal and growth at SMUS. Yet, amidst the shifting leaves and fresh faces, some things remain steadfast—like the enduring legacy of the Gillespie family. In the storied halls of SMUS, the Gillespie name has become synonymous with tradition, excellence, and an unwavering connection to the school. This past year, the school celebrated a historic milestone as Ava Gillespie '24 became the first-ever fifth-generation graduate, marking a century-long family bond that began in 1906.
The Gillespie family’s legacy at SMUS began with Erroll Gillespie, a standout athlete in the school’s first class in 1906, whose name still adorns a plaque in School House. His son, Alastair, continued the tradition in the 1930s, later becoming a prominent politician and Rhodes Scholar. Erroll’s nephews, David and Malcolm Anderson, and grandsons, Ian and Bruce Gillespie, also attended, with cousin Marianne Anderson making history as the first Head Girl in 1979. Ryan Gillespie, Ava’s father, carried on the legacy in the 1980s and 1990s, and today, the family’s diverse careers in politics, medicine, and public service remain connected by their shared SMUS roots.
“It’s an incredible feeling to be part of a family legacy that spans over a century at SMUS," said Ava, reflecting on her unique place in SMUS history. "Seeing my family members’ names on the walls of the Chapel and in the hallways of the School House Building connects me to a rich history and tradition. I feel a deep sense of pride knowing that my name is now up there alongside the generations of Gillespies who have come before me. Being the second female Gillespie to graduate from SMUS makes this legacy even more meaningful, and I’m grateful to have gotten the chance to carry forward our family’s tradition of attending SMUS.”
The Gillespie family’s connection to SMUS is a tapestry woven with experiences in both academics and athletics.
“While there aren’t any specific traditions that have been formally passed down,” Ava explained, “one consistent thread through the Gillespie generations at SMUS has been our strong involvement in sports. From what I know, the earliest Gillespies were active on the cricket team, and my dad continued the tradition by playing on the First XV rugby team during his time at the school. When it was my turn, I had the privilege of playing on both the Senior Girls Volleyball and Rugby teams.”
Despite the varied career paths or her family, Ava has carved out her own vision for the future.
“My family’s diverse career paths in fields like politics, medicine, and firefighting haven’t directly influenced my career decisions. I’ve been able to develop my own vision for my future career. However, I do appreciate my family’s career choices—it’s inspiring to see the different ways they’ve made an impact in the world,” she noted.
Ava never knew her great-great-grandfather Erroll but relished in the thought of comparing SMUS experiences.
"If I could ask him a question, I’d want to know what led him to choose SMUS and what his experience was like there. I’d also love to ask him about what he thinks about his great-great-granddaughter graduating from the same school over a century later, and ask how he would feel knowing that his decision to attend SMUS would become the start of such a long-standing family tradition.”
As Ava looks to the future, she carries with her the lessons learned from her family’s rich history at SMUS. If she were to offer advice to future generations of Gillespies attending the school, Ava would encourage them to “stay focused on their own journey and avoid comparing themselves to others."
"SMUS brings together people from all walks of life, and it’s easy to get caught up in what others are doing. But the most important thing is to stay true to your own goals and passions. I’d also remind them to truly enjoy their time at SMUS and make the most of every opportunity that comes their way.”
Ava Gillespie’s graduation is more than just a personal achievement; it’s a celebration of a legacy that has come full circle. As she steps into the next chapter of her life, she does so with the pride and responsibility of continuing the Gillespie legacy at SMUS.
