WATERLOO, ON -- As a University of Waterloo Engineering graduate and a Conrad Grebel University College alumnus, Edward Penner (’86) and his wife Judy wanted to develop an award that recognized both areas. “Waterloo is a university with a great Engineering program and this will provide support for someone pursuing such a future. Grebel is also a great place, with a unique and positive culture,” reflected Penner. “This award recognizes a student who contributes to Grebel, continuing to foster the great culture we all value. Grebel is clearly a fantastic place to be while gaining an exceptional university education and this award supports both those endeavours. I think it’s important to contribute to the people and places that helped develop us, and prepare us for life ahead.”
Named “The Marpeck Leadership Award,” this generous gift to Grebel will support students who are pursuing an Engineering degree at the University of Waterloo and who have an aptitude and experience in leadership at the College. The award will be used to retain upper year students in the residence or apartments. Director of Student Services, Mary Brubaker Zehr is pleased to have this additional support for student leaders. “Engineers comprise about 20% of our residential study body in any given term. They are gifted students who are full of leadership potential and brilliant ideas. This award money allows us to acknowledge and nurture their potential.”
Arnold Snyder, Professor Emeritus of History at Conrad Grebel, explained why the Marpeck Leadership Award is a perfect name for a scholarship for Grebel engineering students. “Pilgram Marpeck was an exceptional engineer for his time, working with transportation solutions and water applications. As a man of high moral principle, he worked at his posts as long as his conscience was not compromised - he never sacrificed principle for wealth, position, job or comfort. Marpeck was a profoundly committed Anabaptist leader, providing leadership to Anabaptist believers all his adult life. Well versed in Scripture and theology, he wrote a significant number of theological treatises and letters, and collaborated with others on even more works. In these works he demonstrated his commitment to the Anabaptist way and contributed some significant ideas that challenge us still today.”
Marlene Epp, who is writing a commemorative 50th anniversary book for Conrad Grebel, noted that in the planning stages, Pilgram Markpeck was very seriously considered as a name for this Mennonite college on the campus of a university that was established with an Engineering program.
Conrad Grebel has made a conscious effort to offer substantial monetary support to students as they pursue post-secondary education. This year the College has already awarded over $230,000 to over 270 students in a variety of residential and academic programs.
“It’s wonderful to have alumni who remember Grebel fondly and make it possible for students to have the same formational experience that they had,” said Director of Development, Fred W. Martin. The Marpeck Leadership award will generate an annual award of approximately $1,000 beginning in 2014.