Rundle at 40: Dr. Conklin’s Mission

In 1985, Dr. R.C. Conklin and Dr. W.J. Collett took a leap of faith that would forever change education in Calgary. They mortgaged their homes to fund the early days of Rundle College, driven by the belief that every student under their care could reach their full potential, not only in the classroom but also in the community around them.

The story of Dr. Conklin is one of courage, purpose, and perseverance as he helped lead the extraordinary mission that defines Rundle Schools.

(Dr. Conklin presenting a student with an award)

Dr. Conklin believed Rundle’s true measure of success was how much a student developed as a learner and as a person. He believed that every student had the potential to achieve their own version of success, and that Rundle’s role was to guide, support, and challenge them to become the very best version of themselves.

Dr. Conklin and Dr. Collett founded Rundle on the idea that with the right support, care, love, and connection, all students can reach their full potential. That belief continues to guide every decision made within our schools today.

Leading the Charge

Dr. Conklin first served as Rundle’s Headmaster and Superintendent. When Dave Hauk assumed the role of Headmaster, Dr. Conklin continued on as Superintendent and member of the Rundle Board. Still, his impact could never be defined by a title alone. His attention was always on Rundle’s greater vision, ensuring that every expansion, new program, or initiative advanced the school’s growth without compromising its mission.

Dr. Conklin’s leadership was both visionary and principled. He envisioned and protected what he called Rundle’s “Extraordinary Mission,” which defined the key aspects of a Rundle education: a commitment to small class sizes, accessible education, and the intentional hiring of deeply dedicated teachers willing to go beyond the school day in service of individual growth.

As Rundle expanded from a single campus, to multiple schools, Dr. Conklin remained a guiding voice. He worked to ensure that each step forward remained grounded in the founding belief of helping each student reach their full potential, one by one.

(Dr. Conklin [right], and Head of School Dr Jason Rogers [left])

The Man Behind the Mission

Beyond his foundational influence, the man behind the mission is remembered just as fondly. Those who worked alongside Dr. Conklin recall his big smile, outgoing presence, and genuine enthusiasm for education. He was a lifelong learner, endlessly curious about history, science, travel, and countless other subjects. As Rundle sought to develop students into lifelong learners, Dr. Conklin embodied that same spirit in his daily life.

He believed deeply in every student, regardless of their starting point or circumstances. He understood that with enough care and encouragement, students could reach heights they may never have imagined for themselves.

(Students and Teacher wearing their Conklin House shirts)

Today, Dr. Conklin’s legacy is visible not only in Rundle’s programs, the 7–12 Conklin Building, or the house team that bears his name, Conklin House, but in the everyday moments of love and connection that define the school: when teachers stay late to support students, when coaches lead with character and care, and when students are known, valued, and encouraged to reach their own personal best.