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The Centre for Mennonite Studies At the University of the Fraser Valley, we strive to reflect the community we serve. Establishing a Centre for Mennonite Studies is the next step to enhancing UFV’s inclusive environment, and acknowledging the heritage and history of the Valley’s Mennonite community. Historically, the university has made a strong commitment to reflect our neighbouring constituencies which have influenced the Fraser Valley: establishing the Centre for Indo-Canadian Studies and the Centre for Aboriginal Studies. was created. On June 24, 2009 an historic event took place on the UFV campus and a new chapter began in the dynamic development of the university. The Mennonite community, represented by the Mennonite Faith & Learning Society (MFLS), and UFV came together and pledged to create a program to enhance the intellectual presence and provide greater awareness of the wide-ranging contributions of Mennonites in the Fraser Valley, the Lower Mainland, and beyond. This initiative established the vision for the Centre for Mennonite Studies. The Centre for Mennonite Studies comprises three initiatives: the academic leadership embodied within the role of a Chair; the physical space for the Centre’s home; and the curriculum development for the certificate and the minor. Together they provide a permanent platform for this visionary partnership. The Centre will be the first of its kind in Western Canada. The Centre will play an important role in helping students and the greater community to: - Research, study and preserve the rich heritage of the Mennonites and their historical and continuing contributions to society
- Contextualize our understanding of the history, religious studies, ethno-religious culture, philosophy, ethics, literature, fine arts, political studies, international development, peace and reconciliation, agriculture, music, and other disciplines as they relate to the Mennonites, past and present
- Recognize and appreciate the Mennonite culture as a source of knowledge and new ideas for people in the Fraser Valley and beyond
Our Goal: $3,275,000 Certificate/Minor in Mennonite Studies: — $100,000 Funds designated to Mennonite Studies will enable UFV to establish a core group of courses that will form the foundation of our programming in this area. The Certificate has been developed, thanks to the generosity of friends like you. Further funds are needed to realize the course development of the Minor in Mennonite Studies. Centre for Mennonite Studies: — $175,000 Funds designated to the Centre for Mennonite Studies will enable UFV to renovate a physical space on our Abbotsford campus that will serve as the home of activities related to Mennonite studies, research, archives, conferences, and other functions. Chair in Mennonite Studies: — $3,000,000 Funds designated to the Chair in Mennonite Studies will establish an endowment that will permanently support the ongoing costs associated with this appointment. An endowment highlights the university’s commitment to our Mennonite community and ensures the work of the Chair will continue in perpetuity. Your Invitation to Partner Please consider making a gift to establish the legacy of Mennonite education at UFV for generations to come. Together, our dedication to support this partnership will provide on-going recognition of the valued heritage of our Mennonite communities.
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