“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.
The University of Waterloo Music Department at Grebel spent the last month recording end-of-term ensemble concerts. Showcasing talent from two vocal groups, a string orchestra, a Balinese gamelan, a jazz band, and small instrumental chamber ensembles, these recordings are a musical treat for all. Participants include students from all faculties at UWaterloo, demonstrating the connection between science, technology, engineering, math, and arts!
The famous skybunk can no longer be found in its original form in Grebel residence rooms.
Pursuing a career in music education was a dream for Ann L. Schultz (BA 1990) who was always passionate about making music. After finishing a degree in music at Conrad Grebel College, Ann completed a Bachelor of Education and began her teaching career at Rockway Mennonite Collegiate in 1991, becoming head of the music program there in 1997.
When it comes to Grebel’s responsibility for a sustainable environment, there is a long (and expensive) to-do list. An engineering firm just completed an environmental audit of our campus. They have suggested dozens of ways we can reduce our carbon footprint and other environmental impacts—ideas that range from replacing residence windows, to upgraded heating and cooling systems, to smart thermostats, to solar panels. The list is long, but we know that future generations demand that we work at it. Present generations of alumni and students certainly expect us to act, and they have the expertise to help us.