News

Since 1964, Conrad Grebel University College has implemented numerous upgrades and additions into campus. Although the washrooms are among the improved facilities, their accessibility was lacking. More specifically, power-operated doors and washrooms that are easy-to-access are welcome improvements to those with mobility issues. The 2020 “Welcoming Washrooms” project aimed to make this happen.

Rewarding experiences, everlasting friendships, skill-developing opportunities, and even a chance at love—“after everything the Grebel community has given me, giving back in the way of leadership just makes sense,” said Grebel resident, Josh Rampersad.

In September 2020, Grebel’s new kitchen and one section of the dining room expansion were completed just in time for fall term residents to enjoy the more spacious communal area. Since then, the new spaces have received much praise.

“At Grebel there is something for everyone!” Third-year Nanotechnology Engineering student, Sarah Odinotski, has tackled several formative co-op terms and actively participated in many clubs and activities offered by Grebel. She has learned much from her experiences and used her knowledge to strengthen the community, and improve herself and others for the better.

History, identity, faith, and culture. The Bechtel Lectures in Anabaptist-Mennonite Studies provide the opportunity to explore topics related to these four key themes in relation to Mennonites. Conrad Grebel University College is pleased to continue the annual tradition of hosting these presentations in a new virtual format.

Pandemic. Isolation. Stressful politics. Long winter. “Pancakes seem to be the obvious answer,” joked Master of Theological Studies student Christa Van Daele.

Conrad Grebel University College thrives on community, and with all the COVID restrictions in place, staff and students are always looking for creative ways to stay connected.

Conrad Grebel University College at the University of Waterloo provides countless opportunities for students to get involved in the community and gain valuable experiences. Hannah Bernstein, a third year Nanotechnology Engineering student, has taken advantage of the many activities Grebel has to offer.

Along with the new Mennonite Hymnal Voices Together, members of the Mennonite Church have been working on another exciting project. Together in Worship is website with free worship resources for church leaders. While this is a binational project, the Conrad Grebel University College community was highly involved in the creation of this website.

Music plays an important role in the Conrad Grebel University College community, allowing audiences and musicians to share and experience stories told through song and the hearts of passionate artists. After a successful Noon Hour Concert Series@Home in the fall, Grebel’s concerts will continue in the same format this winter 2021 term. Grebel is very thankful to Staebler Insurance for sponsoring this series.

On Wednesdays at Conrad Grebel University College, before the student body sits down together for Community Supper, a group of students, faculty, and staff choose to gather in the Chapel for a worship service. Because of the pandemic, these services have changed quite a lot. Like everything else, they had to move online.