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Riley Koop, a third-year Chemical Engineering student, says attending the University of Waterloo and living at Conrad Grebel University College is the best of both worlds. "I don’t have to make a choice between quality education or a thriving spiritual and community life here," he said. As a member of Vineland United Mennonite Church, Riley feels comfortable in his home away from home because of Grebel's "strong commitment to being a Mennonite institution," which allows him to deepen his faith "in a space that encourages questions while still being rooted in the same Anabaptist-Mennonite values that are important."

Chloe Shantz, a fourth-year Music and English Literature student at the University of Waterloo shares her experience as a musician in Conrad Grebel University College's music program. She is a soprano vocalist and violinist who has been a highly involved member of the Music Department's Chamber Choir, Instrumental Chamber Ensemble, Orchestra Ensemble, and Chapel. Chloe is also the vocal director of Grebel’s upcoming production of The Clockmaker’s Daughter: The Musical, which will be premiering in March.

Beginning in summer 2025, Grebel is looking for one or two people who are energized by living in a community! People who enjoy being surrounded by lots of students and who are content to stay home and play board games, binge on movies, attend coffee houses, or visit over tea will thrive in this role. The Campus Host(s) represents the College during non-business hours and functions as a building superintendent. In return for these services, the College provides rent-free accommodation in a one-bedroom apartment and covers utilities. The Campus Host role is contracted for a term of two years. 

Maya’s three years at Grebel have been everything she wished for in an exciting university experience because of the benefits of living among an active and supportive network of individuals. “I always have good things to share about Grebel: meaningful interactions, talented people, and memorable moments with not just my friends, but anyone in this residence,” she said, reflecting on her sense of belonging within the community. 

Larry Cornies is a master of his craft. Over the span of 45 years, he has sustained a distinguished career in journalism, teaching, and community service. His vocational path wasn’t direct, but his choices contributed to the depth and perspective that he brings to his work. Cornies is the recipient of Conrad Grebel University College's 2024 Distinguished Alumni Service Award, recognizing his significant contributions to the field. 

In early November, seven students from Conrad Grebel University College attended the New Horizons of Impact conference by the Mennonite Economic Development Associates (MEDA) in Atlanta, Georgia. "I had good conversations with the representatives at the conference. They actively tried to connect with the younger generation and inspire us,” reflected first-year student Jonathan Issak. 

“I constantly encounter learning that happens outside of classrooms at Grebel,” shared Paul Heidebrecht, Director of the Kindred Credit Union Centre for Peace Advancement at Grebel, who accompanied students to the conference. “I am always eager to help students find contexts such as the MEDA convention where theory and practice are brought together.” 

"It's hard to describe, but it hit me right in the heart. I just thought, sometimes things can look one way, but then with a little more context or information, it can completely change your perspective," reflected Nancy Williams on a statue she saw at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City during a multi-day student seminar hosted by Mennonite Central Committee. The statue, pictured on the left, was recovered from the 1945 Nagasaki bombing. "How can something look so perfect from one side but then on the other side, you know there's just absolute tragedy?" 

Nancy Williams, a Master of Peace and Conflict Studies student at the University of Waterloo and Conrad Grebel University College, and Natalie Nichol, an undergraduate UWaterloo student minoring in Peace and Conflict Studies (PACS), attended the seminar along with several other students from Grebel. The theme was “Peacebuilding: Does the United Nations Matter?” This unique educational opportunity featured several UN speakers, a tour of the building, and daily group discussions. 

Dr. Carol Penner has been seconded to the role of Chaplain at Conrad Grebel University College for the next three years, beginning May 2, 2025. Penner has taught at Grebel since 2016 as Assistant Professor of Theological Studies and as Director of the Theological Studies (MTS) program since 2022. She will continue in those academic roles on a reduced workload while serving as Chaplain. 

“I am excited to work with Carol as Grebel's next Chaplain,” said Jessica Reesor Rempel, Director of Student Services. “Carol brings expertise in both worship planning and teaching, which will allow her to be an engaged mentor to students on the Chapel Committee and beyond. Her many years of pastoral care experience will be a valuable resource to the students who will seek out her support as Chaplain.” 

“Having lived in Canada for a few months now, I am thrilled by the diverse cultures and the friendly vibe,” remarked Abuk Angok, who is living at Conrad Grebel University College and studying at the University of Waterloo. “My life’s journey has been a difficult struggle, filled with hopelessness, suffering, and disillusionment. Despite all this, my passion for education has never dimmed.” 

“I began my schooling in 2009 in South Sudan, before fleeing due to civil war,” remembered Abuk. “Unfortunately, in August of 2013, our domicile was burnt down by the brutal pastoralist men who mercilessly attacked our village and raided various herds of cattle. Many children, youths, and women were killed, maimed, and displaced.” 

E. Paul Penner, a pillar of Grebel, retired in March 2024, leaving a legacy of commitment, care, and hospitality, as well as memories of pranks, laughter, and classic movie nights. Before his 36-year career in operations, Paul was a University of Waterloo student (BA 1983) who lived at Conrad Grebel University College while studying Economics and Sociology. His service to the College began while a student, serving as Student Council President in 1982-83. After graduating, Paul worked in maintenance in the St. Clair-O’Connor Community as Environmental and Maintenance Services Supervisor and Apartment Rental Coordinator. He completed his Certificate in Business at the University of Toronto in 1987. He returned to Grebel in 1988 as Business Manager, then transitioned to Operations Manager in 1995, and finally to Director of Operations. His primary responsibilities were managing the staff, operations, and buildings of the College, but to Paul, the job was a mission of hospitality, service, and community-building.