Welcome to Grebel

Dorothea Funk served as Conrad Grebel University College’s first female Student Council President and graduated from the University of Waterloo in 1976 with a BA in Political Science. During Dorothea's time at Grebel, the importance of giving back to one’s community was embedded into her values and shaped her career trajectory across Canada. She earned a diploma in Journalism and a Master of Library and Information Science, as well as worked as a radio host, librarian, and non-profit arts society director. Dorothea now lives in Wells, BC, where she serves on her town council.

Before attending Ontario Mennonite Music Camp (OMMC) at Conrad Grebel University College in Waterloo, campers Julia and Jaren thought the idea of making close friends there seemed too good to be true. Little did they know, they were entering an environment where friendship and music come together to create a sense of belonging for everyone, no matter their age or musical experience. In this article, they reveal why they encourage those interested in music to experience OMMC for themselves. "OMMC is where I found some of my greatest friends; my people. The people that let me be me,” Jaren said. “No matter who I was with at OMMC, I always felt I belonged," said Julia.

On March 12, 2025, three University of Waterloo students based at Conrad Grebel University College competed in the Annual C. Henry Smith Oratorical Speech Contest established by the late C. Henry Smith in 1974. Each student presented their speech to a panel of judges along with an audience of staff, faculty, and students. Teena Faust, a second-year Peace and Conflict Studies (PACS) and Philosophy student, Ella Funk, a fourth-year English Creative and Professional Writing student, and Lucas Shumaker, a third-year international student studying Environmental Engineering, competed in the contest. Prizes awarded included: 1st place - $1000, 2nd place - $500, and 3rd place - $300!