‘That’s when MCI came to mind’
Being a graduate of Mennonite Collegiate Institute (MCI) remains a precious part of my life’s memory bank. Moving into the dorm my Grade 11 year gave me a sense of independence and pride to be stepping into more freedom. At the time, I didn’t fully understand my parents’ thoughtful consideration in making this significant decision…
Building connection
Menno Simons Christian School was blessed to appoint George Graffunder as its vice-principal this school year. He completed his bachelor of physical education degree in 1987 and his bachelor of education degree in 1989, both from the University of Calgary. He completed his bachelor of religious education degree in 1990 at Alberta Bible College, and…
Supporting transformation for years to come
For his Grade 12 year, Jacob Harder (1946) was determined to go to Rosthern Junior College (RJC). But he had two big problems. One was that he didn’t have any money to pay for tuition. And the second was that his father believed any education past Grade 9 was a waste of time. His mother, on…
Graduate students find meaningful connections in small pods
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. Peter Haresnape…
Rockway mounts virtual Christmas concert
Musicians come from all walks of life, with varying degrees of passion for what they do, but most are quite resilient to begin with. Add a global pandemic for two years, with assorted lockdowns and restrictions, and the desire to make music together with others increases exponentially. Rockway Mennonite Collegiate musicians are no different. As…
Beyond the expected
When I reflect on my years at Winnipeg Mennonite Elementary and Middle Schools (WMEMS), the thing that stands out to me the most is the community. I still connect with some of the friends I made back when I was a student. The students in Mrs. Dyck’s class welcomed me into their classroom family. The…
CMU alumni collaborate on book featuring women in music
Anneli Loepp Thiessen A vibrant children’s book featuring 26 women in music will soon hit bookstore shelves, and it was created by two Canadian Mennonite University (CMU) alumni. Anneli Loepp Thiessen first wrote The ABCs of Women in Music in the fall of 2020 as a creative project for a feminist theories class at the…
Westgate volleyballers win first provincial title since ’78
I first heard of Westgate Mennonite Collegiate in the fall of my final bachelor of education program year. It was 1978, and this very small school surprised the local sports scene by capturing the Manitoba Provincial “A” Volleyball Championship by defeating teams with several-fold larger school populations. I joined the Westgate teaching staff in 1982,…
Students relieved and excited to be back at school
Faculty, staff and students are excited to be back in person at Mennonite schools in Ontario. To allow for a safe return to campus, they are committed to following local and provincial health guidelines while they prioritize finding ways to create a sense of community and connection. Conrad Grebel University College, Waterloo, Ont. There was…
RJC students return to overnight class retreats
There is much to be grateful for as a new year begins at RJC High School. With faithful constituent support, two consecutive years of increased enrolment, and the return of inter-collegiate athletics and choral programs, the energy among students and staff is high. Class retreats are a tradition at the start of the school year…
