The transition will commence this fall around the time of the College’s annual general meeting on October 1. “As academic dean of Conrad Grebel University College, Jim Pankratz provided strong leadership of the academic program and mentored faculty,” said board chair Geraldine Balzer. “His commitment to the college, his knowledge of Grebel, the University of Waterloo, Mennonite higher education and the Mennonite Church landscape, will provide strong leadership while the board engages in a presidential search. We are grateful to Jim and Goldine for serving the college in this leadership role during their retirement.”
Pankratz served as the College’s dean from 2006 until his retirement in 2014. Prior to that time he was in Fresno, California at the Mennonite Brethren Seminary and served as president of Concord College during the time of the creation of Canadian Mennonite University.
While at Grebel, Pankratz directed the Theological Studies program and taught graduate courses on the relationship of Christianity to other faiths. His present research focuses on the interaction of Mennonite missionaries with the religions and cultures of India during the twentieth century.
“Goldine and I have a deep commitment to Grebel and rich friendships here,” said Pankratz. “I hope that I can serve and lead in a way that inspires and empowers Grebel during this time of transition.”
“Jim was very highly regarded for his vision and leadership when he served as academic dean, and we look forward to working with him again,” said Lowell Ewert, faculty representative to the board.
A search committee will be struck for a new president at the June board meeting.