Every year, Conrad Grebel’s Convocation service is a culmination of the College’s central values of faith, scholarship, service and community, and a celebration of the students, professors, and community who live out these values each day. Degrees are granted in the Master of Theological Studies program, and achievements of University of Waterloo undergraduates who have participated in Grebel life are recognized.
According to Maya Angelou, “the purpose of an education is to compose a better world.” As the 2011 keynote speaker, President Henry Paetkau set the tone of the festive event with this quote, challenging students to take their education and use it to work towards a world that lives in hope.
Referring to Grebel’s 2009 Commencement ceremony, Henry reminded the graduating students how they had been challenged to live out the College’s mission statement. “Together, words and notes find meaning that they would not have on their own. We need to become living words and sing together in harmony.”
Giving examples of amazing and inspiring Grebel student-led projects that make the world a better place, Henry continued, “Your education has equipped you with powerful tools and resources. I challenge you to employ your gifts and passions to compose a better world.”
Susan Taves, Board of Governors Chair-elect, told students, “your guidance and leadership will impact the College for many years to come.” She also spoke on times, locations, and connections (TLC) that have formed students and will continue to build them in the future.
Peace and Conflict Studies graduate and valedictorian, Jessica Reesor Rempel, described some memorable moments for Grebel students - illustrating that there is no single Grebel story. There are Grebel stories - beautiful, challenging, variable, and diverse. “So many stories lie ahead of us,” she continued, “so much lies waiting for us. We must take action and find new communities to continue our stories.”
Nearly 60 undergrads took the stage to be congratulated by Director of Student Services, Mary Brubaker-Zehr and President Paetkau. The students had participated in Grebel’s residence program or were receiving a degree in Music or Peace and Conflict Studies. Each graduate spoke briefly about their next step in life. Their plans included further education, new jobs, voluntary service, marriage, and travel.
This year, Grebel’s thriving graduate Theological Studies program awarded MTS degrees to five students. Christina Edmiston addressed her classmates on the topic of faith, specifically the fact that understanding never replaces faith. Likening her education experience with a once secluded garden that is now tended by an entire community, Christina thanked her professors for their “keen aptitude for cultivation” and reminded her classmates to remember that their education “is a labour of love. If we forget it, always go back to the root.”
Congratulations to all our graduates and welcome to the Grebel alumni community!