William Dick PACS Field Study Award
William (Bill) Dick grew up in Leamington, Ontario. He was one of the first students at Canadian Mennonite Bible College, where he met his wife, Mary Penner. At CMBC, he was very active on the Peace team, promoting non-resistance and peace initiatives in Manitoba Churches.
Bill completed his graduate studies in theology at the University of Toronto where he took courses at all the church colleges, reinforcing his ecumenical approach to religion and peace. He was involved in the creation of a number of Mennonite churches and institutions in Ontario. He served as pastor at both Toronto United Mennonite Church and Ottawa Mennonite Church, and was instrumental in the founding of Silver Lake Mennonite Camp.
Bill was a strong supporter of the creation of Conrad Grebel University College as a clearly Mennonite institution within the larger University of Waterloo (UW) context and served on the Board for a number of years. His children, Paul Berg-Dick and Marly Penner, and his granddaughters, Meredith Bigham and Emily Berg, are all Conrad Grebel alumni.
Wishing to expand his skills and interact with a broader community, he made a mid-career transition and earned his doctorate in counselling psychology. Bill was the Director of Counselling Services at the UW for many years and was active in the creation of Shalom Counselling Services.
Bill recognized the importance of peace and justice issues. He worked actively for the World Federalist organization. He founded the Waterloo chapter of the World Conference of Religion and Peace, working toward multi-faith dialogue and conflict resolution. Throughout his life, he promoted the ideals of peace and justice in the world.
About the Award
The William Dick PACS Field Study Award was created for students pursuing a Peace and Conflict Studies (PACS) concentration, with particular attention to students whose field study placement with a Non Governmental Organization cannot provide adequate funding.
This award is given to:
- Students pursuing a PACS concentration
- Students accepted for PACS Field Study program and placement with an NGO that does not provide adequate funding
- Students holding at least an upcoming one term residence contract at the College, with consideration given to students who have had at least 2 previous terms in residence, may be given priority
- Students with financial need may be given priority
Amount:Awards vary between $500 to $3,000 depending on the type and location of the internship.