Together, the BCS Community Did a Lot

This year, BCS launched its very first Day of Giving: Doolittle’s Day. Inspired by the campaign motto, “Give a Little, Doo a Lot,” the initiative brought together students, parents, alumni, staff, faculty, and friends of the school for 36 hours of community giving in support of the BCS experience.

What began as a new fundraising initiative quickly became something much bigger — a celebration of community spirit, school pride, and the collective impact that can happen when people come together for a shared purpose.

Who is Lucius Doolittle?

Long before Lennoxville became known as a center of learning, one determined man helped lay its foundation. Lucius Doolittle (1800–1862) was more than an Anglican priest; he was a visionary educator whose ambition and energy helped shape the future of education in Quebec’s Eastern Townships.

Born in 1800 in Lyndon, Vermont, Doolittle moved to Canada as a young man with his family, settling in the Township of Hatley. At a time when educational opportunities in the region were limited, he saw enormous potential in the growing communities around Lennoxville and believed deeply that learning could transform lives.

As a minister of the Church of England, Doolittle travelled widely throughout the Eastern Townships, serving local parishes while also championing the cause of education. In 1836, driven by determination and a bold vision for the future, he opened a small school known as the Lennoxville Classical School. Though modest in its beginnings, that school would eventually grow into Bishop's College School.

Doolittle dreamed of creating not only a school, but a lasting centre of higher learning for the region. In 1843, he helped unite his school with the newly established Bishop's College an institution that would later evolve into Bishop's University. His leadership helped transform Lennoxville into an important educational community whose influence would extend far beyond the Eastern Townships.

Remembered as both a respected rector and a tireless community builder, Lucius Doolittle left behind far more than buildings or institutions. He left a legacy of curiosity, opportunity, and learning that continues to inspire students generations later.

Results

Motivated by the vision of Lucius Doolittle, whose belief in education helped found what would become Bishop's College School, the inaugural Doolittle’s Day campaign exceeded all expectations.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of students, parents, alumni, staff, faculty, and friends of BCS, 358 participants came together in an extraordinary show of support, surpassing both our participation and fundraising goals.

Following the overwhelming success of this first campaign, Doolittle’s Day will officially become an annual tradition at BCS, taking place each year on the first Wednesday of May.

To everyone who gave, shared, participated, volunteered, and supported the campaign: thank you. Together, we truly did a lot.

See You Next Year!