What does hope look like at Renison?
That question brought staff and faculty together on April 8, 2026, for Renison’s first annual All-College event — a day of reflection, connection and shared purpose that reflects a renewed direction for the College under the leadership of President Marc Jerry.
To guide the conversation, Renison welcomed Jessica Riddell, nationally recognized educator, scholar and founder of the Hope Circuits Institute. Early in the day, she described Renison as “a mission-driven, nimble, interdisciplinary institution” and “a neighbourhood” — qualities she called “a true strength”.
Her message aligned closely with President Jerry’s vision of hope not as wishful thinking or illusory hope, but as something grounded in action, courage and positive change. By dedicating time and resources to community, dialogue and learning, Renison affirmed the importance of people and relationships in shaping its future.
Facing challenges openly
Like many institutions across Ontario, Renison is navigating a period of change. The event created space to acknowledge challenges honestly while focusing on how the community can move forward together.
Riddell described that kind of openness as essential in a time of “rupture” across the world and higher education.
“Repair can’t happen when we stay in our offices. It has to be relational, and it must come from a place of openness, thoughtfulness, and respect,” says Riddell.
For Keely Cook, Assistant Director at the School of Global Engagement and Education, the opportunity to connect with colleagues across the College was especially meaningful.
“Among those at my table, there was a mutual acknowledgement that Renison’s future is a shared endeavor… one that requires all members of our community to value each other’s contributions,” says Cook. “I left feeling more hopeful about Renison’s future.”
Hope in action
Riddell invited participants to rethink hope as something actively built through relationships, dialogue and action, not the absence of difficulty. She encouraged “a brand of hope large enough to hold difficult emotions,” while still making space for joy, empathy and forward movement.
Throughout the day, group conversations reflected this approach, emphasizing listening, collaboration and a shift toward possibility.
For Denise Marigold, Associate Professor in the School of Social Sciences and Humanities, the discussion connected closely to her work in positive psychology.
“I like to think of hope as an action and a practice, rather than a feeling,” she says. “It’s about facing reality and doing the work to make things better.”
Looking ahead
The day closed with a clear message: institutions like Renison have both the opportunity and responsibility to help shape what comes next.
Quoting philosopher John Dewey, Riddell reminded participants that “democracy has to be born anew every generation, and education is its midwife.”
The day was a bold reflection of President Jerry’s belief that the role of a leader is to be the keeper of hope — hope grounded in action, community and positive change. That spirit continues to guide Renison forward.