Support Grebel

2020 will no doubt be remembered as a year that tested our optimism. From wildfires and hurricanes, to global unrest triggered by social, economic, and racial inequalities, to the continuing coronavirus pandemic, we’re confronted by an almost overwhelming set of problems.

In a year that has felt hopeless at times, Grebel students have been a great source of hope for me—and maybe for you too. They are creative, collaborative, and committed to applying themselves to the great challenges we all face together. We’ve featured a number of our students in this mailing to give you a sense of their dreams for the future, their work and studies, and how they hope to make a positive difference in the world.

I’m proud of the fact that we have been able to distribute over $500,000 annually in student bursaries and scholarships over the past few years. The cost of higher education continues to climb, and scholarships and bursaries help our students manage student debt. Most of this student aid is provided through the annual Grebel Fund, which also supports other programs that do not receive government support.

This year, the pandemic has cut sharply into our normal revenues, and we need a little more help than usual to provide that support.

We hope you will consider a donation to the Grebel Fund during this difficult year. Your gift is an investment in talented students whose hearts and minds are fixed on the future, with hope.

Gratefully,

Marcus Shantz
President

Our goal for the 2020-21 Grebel Fund is $360,000. Our fiscal year-end is April 30. 
Help us go all the way! DONATE NOW

Making the Best of our Situation

The September start-up at Grebel this year has been like no other! With 102 students living in the residence and apartments, plus more than 70 virtual residents and associates, students have found countless creative ways to build a vibrant community.

Residents are excited when they gather to eat in the dining room, although they are separated by vinyl barriers for public health reasons. Student Council and other leaders are setting an exceptional example and creating a fun, safe, and welcoming space during the pandemic.

Grebel and UWaterloo faculty are providing students with the best remote courses possible and making sure that everyone has the resources needed for a successful term. The Music Department in particular is pushing traditional boundaries, as they offer seven ensembles online, emphasizing collaboration, team-work, and instrumental and vocal technique. Enrolment has increased from last year, in both undergraduate and graduate classes, and the Master of Theological Studies program has its largest enrolment with 39 students, almost half of which are new this fall.

COVID-19 has created many extra expenses and reduced our income. Because our residence was closed this summer we lost revenue from students as well as conference rentals. The pandemic has reduced our residence to 50% capacity which also has impacted our revenue this fall.

Your support for the Grebel Fund will make it possible to:

• offer quality academic programs,
• nurture leadership development, and
• reach our goal of $360,000

To learn more about how your gift will impact Grebel students, contact: Fred W. Martin, Director of Advancement. 
519-885-0220 x24381

Make your donation

• Online donations can be designated to Grebel through the University of Waterloo (please select "Conrad Grebel University College" in the drop-down menu).
• Donations should be made payable to:
  Conrad Grebel University College,
  140 Westmount Road North,
  Waterloo, Ontario, Canada N2L 3G6