News

Lowell Ewert, Associate Professor of Peace and Conflict Studies (PACS) at Conrad Grebel University College and the University of Waterloo, has been honoured with one of the four UWaterloo 2020 Distinguished Teacher Awards. This award celebrates exemplary instructors with a record of teaching excellence over an extended period. In addition to intellectual rigour, criteria for the award include impact beyond the classroom, concern for students, and a favourable and lasting influence on students and colleagues.

In the Peace and Conflict Studies (PACS) Department, we continue to follow the new wave of protests and movements for racial justice occurring across the United States. As a Department we recognize that events of racism, and systemic and structural violence are not something that simply happen ‘over there’.

By Michelle Jackett

Michelle Jackett is a graduate of the Peace and Conflict Studies program (BA ’11) and holds an MA in Conflict Transformation, specializing in Restorative Justice (‘13). She currently works as Coordinator of the Kindred Credit Union Centre for Peace Advancement and teaches Restorative Justice for PACS.

Did you know caterpillars turn to goop inside their cocoons before becoming butterflies? I learned this fun fact from Rebecca Solnit in her recent article “’The impossible has already happened': what coronavirus can teach us about hope.” More than a fun fact, the caterpillar’s transformation is an analogy.

By Rachel Reist, PACS Undergraduate Academic and Administrative Officer & Internship Coordinator

Academic advisors at UWaterloo are often the first point of contact for students who are concerned about their mental health but not sure where to go or what to do. What I have found to be the best technique in my advising practice over the last six years is “shut up and listen.”

Make-A-Difference Market is Christmas shopping fundraiser being hosted on December 7^th 2019 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It will consist of local and fair-trade vendors, a food and bake sale, a silent auction and live music performances. 

Grebel is hosting a talent showcase and food bank filler on November 9 from 6:30-8:30pm! If you are student, staff or residence of Grebel now is your chance to sign up to perform and share your talent!

In the fall of 2020, Conrad Grebel University College students will start the school year equipped to be more welcoming and inclusive than ever before!  On April 1, the Board of Governors approved the budget and final plans for a brand-new kitchen and an expansion of the dining room. 

The PACS department is looking for a Student Communications Assistant for the 2019-2020 school year! This paid position includes managing social media for the PACS department, assisting in promoting, planning, and implementing PACS Sponsored Events, updating the PACS websites, sending out our biweekly newsletter, and more!