"The Elmira Case" Documentary Screening | Celebrating Mark Yantzi
At the University of Waterloo's 2024 Fall Convocation, Mark Yantzi (BA 1969, MASC 1978) will receive an honorary Doctor of Laws for his outstanding accomplishments in the field of Restorative Justice. In celebration, Grebel is hosting a Brown Bag Lunch to screen "The Elmira Case" film, which documents the actions of probation officer Mark Yantzi, a forward thinking judge, two wayward youth willing to take responsibility for their actions, and a community willing to forgive. Yantzi's bold and unconventional approach to a typical case of criminal vandalism sparked a worldwide movement in Restorative Justice.
About Mark Yantzi
Mark Yantzi is a pioneer in restorative justice and a leader in addressing conflict. He earned a BA in Sociology in 1969 and a MASC in Human Relations and Counseling in 1977, both from the University of Waterloo. As a parole officer in the 1970’s, Yantzi implemented Canada’s first formal use of restorative justice in criminal sentencing. He founded and led Community Justice Initiatives, developing programs to support victims and offenders. He served Waterloo as City and Regional Councillor and was a mediator for Correctional Service of Canada. He is author of Sexual Offending and Reconciliation and recipient of Conrad Grebel University College’s Distinguished Alumni Service Award.
