New OA President
07 March 2024
At yesterday’s OA AGM, as per my long term intention, I stepped down as OA President and I am delighted to announce that Clare Elizabeth Yeabsley (née McCarty) was unanimously elected as my successor.My seven year tenure of commitment, continuity, change, connection and contemplation has been thoroughly enjoyable, a tremendous personal honour and privilege during which time I made many significant changes to the OA Society, albeit in my opinion for the better, including developing a more diverse and inclusive OA Committee. Now is the right time to allow another OA with fresh energy and vision to continue my legacy as the OA Society evolves and thrives one hundred and twenty two years since being founded in 1922. Clare, a former pupil of Kennedy's House 1988-90, is married to Michael Yeabsley, Housemaster of McGill's and a mother to seven children all educated through the Aldenham system. Clare was elected to the OA Committee in 2015 and is a successful business woman, confidant public speaker, networker and communicator; her brother is Paul McCarty (M1987-92). Clare Yeabsley now becomes the first woman in the history of the OA Society's one hundred and twenty two years to hold the office as the 28th President of the Old Aldenhamian Society and indeed forty four years since girls were first admitted at Aldenham School. This is history in the making.I am confidant you will give Clare your full support in her new and important role. Long live Aldenham. Long live the OA Society.With my sincere thanks and best wishes.James James-Crook (M1968-72)Vice President, OA Society & Governor, The Aldenham Foundation