It took a multitude of events to properly say goodbye to Mary Brubaker-Zehr, Grebel’s Director of Student Services since 1996. At each event (end-of-term banquets, a Don reunion, a retirement party, and many other “lasts”) and in different ways, students and colleagues celebrated the contributions that Mary has made to the College over the last 26 years. Beginning in 1996, Mary’s primary responsibility has been oversight and administration of the residential program. She worked tirelessly with students to create a person-oriented community where high value is placed on respect, inclusion, honesty, interdependence, responsibility, and engagement.
“Mary persistently met students and colleagues with an empathetic heart,” explained former Chaplain Ed Janzen, who worked with Mary for 22 years. “What I have learned from Mary is that empathy is a decision to attend to the person regardless of circumstance or moment.”
“Mary’s clarity about the mission and vision for the residence program and how it fits into the larger work of the College meant that we could have good discussions and debates about programs and initiatives,” explained Grebel President Marcus Shantz. Mary’s determined position to maintain a 50/50 blend of first-year and upper-year students despite the University’s requests was a key decision in Grebel’s history. “Mary knew we needed upper year students to create the continuity, mentorship, community that Grebel is known for,” added Marcus. “That stance took bravery, courage, and a sense of what’s important.”
With cheerful footsteps, Mary led with grace and was always optimistic despite the many challenges of her job. In her interactions with students, she was warm and welcoming, kind and encouraging. Mary was open to new ideas and new ways of thinking, she created strong traditions, and she embodied the Grebel Spirit. It is fitting, then, that Mary’s parting gift to Grebel students was the establishment of an award called the Spirit of Grebel Award.
We hope that Mary will remember that “moderation is cool” even when it applies to retirement activities like gardening and tennis.
WORDS OF TRIBUTE FOR MARY
“You are someone who has the profound capability of seeing the strengths and gifts of each person.”- Sage Streight (BA 2019)
“You’ve made an impact on countless students’ lives, including my own. You leave behind a wonderful legacy.”- Nathan Henderson (BES 2016)
“Thank you for the space you held for us and the laughs you shared with us.”- Alissa Bender (WLU 2002)
“Thank you for always having an open door and providing a safe place to laugh, to cry, and to be vulnerable.”- Hannah Hill (BES 2020)
“You have a way of seeing and serving everyone with such genuine care and attention. I have learned so much from you directly, but even more by witnessing how you live your own life.”- Briar Hunter (BSC 2020)
“Thanks to Mary, I felt welcomed, safe, heard and stimulated. She is a caring leader who makes people want to be the best version of themselves each day.”- Mary Ann Collishaw (Student in the ‘90s)
“She was such a delight to talk to and work with. She was always positive, provided wise guidance, and cared very much about students.”- Kyle Gossen (BA 2009)
“You have been such a stable, caring presence in your leadership. My life was greatly impacted by living in residence at Grebel - and I benefitted from the culture that you gave leadership to.”- Chris Brnjas (BA 2012, MTS 2014)
“I was a student representative on the team that interviewed Mary, and soon after was on the Don team working with her. She was a wise, kind, and comfortable presence from the start!”- Janine (Wideman) Odreman (BSC 1998)
“You’ve played such an central role in Grebel for so long, that many of us can’t imagine it without you! You have such a kind and loving nature, caring for each of us in our home away from home.”- Kathryn Wu (Current Student)
