From the moment she arrived in Waterloo, appropriately on Canada Day, Dr. Susan Schultz Huxman, the new president of Conrad Grebel University College, has been meeting as many key Grebel stakeholders and community leaders in southern Ontario as she can. These one-on-one visits have revealed how Grebel has touched lives with defining moments for alumni, purpose-driven careers for staff and faculty, and hope for future generations for donors.
Huxman stated:
Because Communication is my discipline, I wanted to meet 100 key stakeholders in 100 days. I know that one can learn so much more about an institution and its special character by engaging in individual conversations. The connections I’ve made and the stories I’ve learned have been tremendous. What a huge reservoir of goodwill exists toward Grebel.
From board members, faculty and staff, donors, alumni, and student council, to leaders in Mennonite Church Canada, Mennonite Church Eastern Canada, the Kitchener-Waterloo business, education and non-profit community, the new president has been hopping from offices, schools, churches, restaurants, farms, boardrooms, game rooms and homes to learn more about the institution she now leads.
Fred Martin, Director of Development at Conrad Grebel, has accompanied Susan on some of her visits with key supporters.
Since Susan is from Kansas, she recognizes that she doesn’t come with many instant connections to the church and Ontario communities. This is a great way for her to turn a challenge into an opportunity. Like me, she recognizes that her best work for Grebel will be done outside her own office.
Carol Lichti, the president’s administrative assistant, has been in overdrive scheduling all the appointments. She notes:
By September 12, Susan has already hit 119 and we anticipate being over 130 by October 9th, the hundredth day.
The Presidential Inauguration service will be held on Sunday October 16 at 3:00pm at Floradale Mennonite Church. Everyone is welcome join the celebration.
To request an appointment with Susan or check her availability for a speaking engagement in your organization, email at cgcpres@uwaterloo.ca.