OLD BEDEANS ASSOCIATION

The beginnings of the Old Bedeans Association are lost in the hoary past. It is gathered that the OBA was started in 1924 and its first President was Rev. Fr. Williamson. Not much is known about the history of the OBA till 1956, when St Bede’s came under the control of the Salesians of Don Bosco. [Don Bosco Fathers].

In 1975 the OBA celebrated its Golden Jubilee, with a whole day programme, in which a large number of past pupils (some of them really old) took part.

Starting with Mr. David Quinn, the OBA has had many Presidents, in the person of Dr F. D. Wilson, Mr. Irwin L. Passagne, Mr. A. Augustine, Mr. Davis Thomas, Mr. Titus Jesudoss, Mr. Philip Rajan, Mr. Stafford Mantel and the present Mr. V. Kumaresan.

With the formation of Salesian Provinces and creation of the INM Chennai Provincial Federation, the OBA has the unique privilege of seeing 5 of its Presidents Viz Mr. Irwin L Passagne, Mr. A. Augustine, Mr. Titus Jesudoss, Mr. Davis Thomas and Mr. Stafford Mantel, serving as Provincial Presidents. In fact, the founding President of the Provincial Federation (1969) was Mr. Irwin L. Passagne and the present President of the Provincial Federation is Mr. Stafford Mantel (2023-2027).

The past pupils Federation, being aware of the involvement and contribution of the OBA members, elected Mr. A. Augustine and Mr. Davis Thomas as President of the National Federation of Don Bosco Past Pupils. Mr. Stafford Mantel was the former National Secretary (2019-2023) The past pupils movement in India has flourished under the stewardship of these Old Bedeans.

The OBA was further covered with glory by the election of Mr. A. Augustine at the World Confederation as Vice President for Adults. (headquarters in Rome, Italy) for 2 terms. By being elected from past pupils from across the globe, this Old Bedean, brought recognition not only to the OBA but to India also.

In the earlier days when the Anglo-Indian population was considerable and pace of life was more sedate, the OBA has conducted Social Nights, Ball Room Dancing, Family Get Together, Blood donation camps etc  The BARTLEYS’ SHOW and a MUSICAL STAR NIGHT was organized by the OBA to raise funds for the school. During the World Covid-19 pandemic Old Bedeans collaborated to help over 230 family in the state with Rs. 1000/- worth provisions every 2 weeks, they also cooked and fed migrant workers in designated areas. Old Bedeans have always been a helping hand during the Chennai Floods. Many batches who celebrate their 20th, 25th or 50th Anniversaries contribute towards projects and Scholarship funds of the OBA.

The activities of the OBA are in perfect sync with the requirements of the school. The members of the OBA take part in all school functions such as Community Day / Rector’s Day, Parents/Annual day, Teachers Day, Sports day, Festa di Talenti etc, both as volunteers (when required) and as participants.

From time immemorial, the Annual Get Together of the Old Bedeans has been on 26^th of January. This event brings in Over 500 past pupils, to meet their teachers and classmates.

The OBA had instituted a Rolling Trophy for the Anglo-Indian board of Schools in the State, obtaining the best results in Standards X and XII. This was a much-coveted Trophy.

The OBA as on date in 2024 continues to do / participate in the following annual activities

• Pongal Celebrations
• AGM & Reunion
• Feast of St. John Bosco
• Induction of outgoing batch into OBA
• Life Membership Drive
• Volleyball match
• Medical, Eye, Dental, Ortho Camps
• Scholarship for deserving students
• Uniform, Socks and Shoes for deserving students
• Investiture Ceremony
• Annual Sports Day
• Festa di Talenti
• Seminar for Teachers
• Seminars for students
• Teachers Day Celebrations
• Annual Parents Day
• Rector’s Day
• Children’s Day Celebrations
• Christmas Treat for Boarders
• Provisions worth Rs. 1500 for over 150 less fortunate children.

Thanks to the love the Bedeans have for St. Bede’s, the Centenary celebrations of the school was patronised in large numbers. Past pupils from all over India and far off countries like USA, France and Australia, graced the occasion. 26th January 2008 saw a mammoth gathering of grateful Bedeans, brought in by the OBA to celebrate this momentous event in the history of the school.

The OBA has a Chapter in Australia which is quite active (both the earlier one with seniors and also OBIA) For several years this Chapter has been sending 1000 Australian Dollars annually to the OBA for carrying out worthwhile projects.

The OBA, thanks to its vibrant and active, Fathers and Executive Committee members who are always encouraged by the enthusiasm and support of all Old Bedeans.

This 26th Jan 2025 onwards we start the yearlong celebrations and projects of OBA 100 (100 Years of the Old Bedeans Association) and look forward to your participation in large numbers.