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Each year, Conrad Grebel University College welcomes new students into its vibrant community and becomes a home away from home. Grebel’s residence is enthusiastic, welcoming, and dedicated to helping students grow and connect with others. “From a parent's perspective, the community is amazing at Grebel. Community makes a huge positive impact on mental health,” said Evelyn Fehr, parent of Cole and Sydney. “Also, you know that your kids will never go hungry. They do not have to shop for groceries or cook, leaving more time to focus on their studies.” 

Conrad Grebel University College’s weekly Community Supper on Wednesday, March 9 was filled with laughter and educational insights. Grebel welcomed three alumni who have pursued a career in law to share their thoughts and experiences about law school and practicing law. Grebel’s President Marcus Shantz, who is a lawyer himself, hosted the panel, asking questions to get the conversation started. "Going to law school expands both your mind and your vocational options. Many Grebel students have taken their undergraduate degrees into meaningful careers in law,” said President Shantz.

“It is incumbent on all settlers in Canada today to understand their relationship with Indigenous peoples as a means to right the injustices of past and present, and to act on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 2015 Calls to Action,” stressed Professor Marlene Epp, one of the organizers of the upcoming Indigenous-Mennonite Encounters Conference.

How do peace and technology interact? What are the social and environmental implications of new technologies? In what ways does military research and development undergird technological advancements? These are a few questions that students wrestle with in the PeaceTech Living-Learning Community at Conrad Grebel University College and the University of Waterloo. PeaceTech Living-Learning Community aims to reduce violent conflict around the world at the intersection of technology, media, and data. It is a collaborative environment where students and mentors work together to imagine, develop, and launch tools to implement social change through the fields of peace and technology. PeaceTech Peer Leaders Timothy Peters, Devin Blankespoor, and Hannah Bernstein share how their time in PeaceTech has shaped their understanding of peace and technology in today’s society.

“It feels great to be back teaching in person,” said Alicia Batten, Professor of Religious Studies and Theological Studies.  “It is much easier to communicate with people, even with masks on. It was a bit odd coming back to the classroom in the middle of the semester, however.

Coming this March, Conrad Grebel University College is hosting two distinct winter lectures, offered by Professors Sofia Samatar and Regina Shands-Stoltzfus. The presentations are focused on addressing global social concerns and raising awareness about oppression. 

Through the Arts First program, the University of Waterloo’s Faculty of Arts provides a wide spectrum of courses each term with an emphasis on developing inquiry and communication skills. First-year students have an opportunity to explore a variety of topics based on a professor’s expertise, with each course taught in a small seminar setting where students build social awareness and ethical engagement. These courses are often a gateway to learning about potential majors students might pursue, including Grebel’s programs such as Music, Peace and Conflict Studies, Mennonite Studies, and Religious and Theological Studies.

Music unites people all over the world. This winter, Conrad Grebel University College is bringing people together virtually through the Noon Hour Concert series, starting January 26 at 12:30 pm. Additional concerts will premiere on most Wednesdays during the Winter term. These concerts are recorded with a small live audience and are broadcasted on the Grebel YouTube channel.

As the pandemic lingers and students persevere in challenging times, students in the Master of Theological Studies (MTS) program at Conrad Grebel University College created pods. These small groups, made up of students with a mix of experiences, met virtually or in-person to offer mutual support, encouragement, and advice throughout the term.

“On behalf of the Grebel Board of Governors,” shared Board Chair Paul Fieguth, “I am very pleased to announce the reappointment of Marcus Shantz as President of Conrad Grebel University College, supported enthusiastically and unanimously by the Board. The reappointment committee solicited and received input from a great many people, and there was overwhelming appreciation for Marcus’ leadership.