As Renison’s first woman chaplain, the Venerable Megan Collings-Moore helped create a community where students could bring their questions, share their struggles, and feel at home. From her arrival in 2006 until her retirement in 2021, she supported students through the challenges and discoveries of university life.
At the heart of that work were the relationships formed in the Ministry Centre. Megan fondly remembers informal conversations and lively Tea & Questions gatherings, when the room became so full that extra chairs were needed and discussions travelled in every possible direction. These everyday moments of connection remain among her most treasured memories.
Another highlight was Founders’ Day in 2008, when Bishop Barbara Harris received an Honorary Senior Fellowship at Renison. Harris was the first woman, and the first Black woman, consecrated as a bishop in the worldwide Anglican Communion. Joining the chapel community for morning worship, she captivated students before delivering an afternoon sermon that drew on Bob Marley, Malcolm X, and economic theory. Megan remembers her as “tiny but a complete powerhouse.”
Megan also took on the position of interim Manager of Housing and Student Life while continuing as chaplain. She saw the appointment as a vote of confidence in both her leadership and the chaplaincy program. It also created an opportunity to welcome the Rev. Ros Elm as assistant chaplain, bringing their perspective as an Indigenous woman and priest to the community.
Above all, Megan’s reflections return to the students who shaped her time at Renison.
“I still think of so many of the students I had the privilege to work with, and they certainly impacted my life.”
This Women’s History Month, we celebrate Megan’s leadership, compassion, and lasting contribution to a Renison where students felt heard, supported, and connected.