Matriculation marks your formal welcome into the St John’s community, a celebration that connects you to centuries of members, Fellows, and staff who have been part of the College before you. Whether you are a new student joining us for the first time or a continuing member showing your support, this ceremony is a special moment to gather as Johnians and celebrate our shared community. 

This event will include a short ceremony, words of welcome from our College leadership, and the signing of the Matricula; an enduring record of all who have been part of St John’s College. Following the ceremony, you are welcome to enjoy light refreshments and connect with your fellow Johnians.

Date: Monday, September 15th
Time: 1:00 – 2:00 pm
Location: St John’s Chapel

This award will be formally presented to her at the 2025 Fall Convocation. As part of the honour, she will also deliver a presentation at UM’s New Faculty Orientation and/or through the Teaching and Learning Certificate program. 

Thorpe, a professor in the Faculty of Arts and Fellow of St. John’s College, was attending a teaching workshop when she received the news. “I had a feeling I’d find out that day,” she recalls. During a break, she checked her email, and there it was! Her friend, Dr. Christine Stewart was nearby to celebrate with a congratulatory hug. 

Nominated by Dr. Adele Perry, Thorpe’s application included a teaching dossier, a statement of educational leadership, and letters from colleagues, students and former students. “People didn’t have to share with me what they wrote, but many sent me their letters, and it really was lovely to hear from students how my teaching has affected their lives,” she says.  

Since joining UM in 2012, Thorpe has developed a dynamic, student-centered approach to teaching. She prefers not to rely on traditional lectures. Instead, she brings in real-world examples such as current events, films, or plays that make course concepts tangible and relevant. 

“You can understand the world through these ideas, but you can also understand the ideas by connecting them to the world,” she says. 

Whether she’s encouraging students to do creative projects or attend a film screening, Thorpe emphasizes course work that gets students interested.

“When something matters to students, they’re more likely to remember it. They take pride in their work, they share it with others, and it becomes meaningful to them.” 

She also draws a comparison between teaching and coaching basketball.

“You wouldn’t just show someone how you shoot the ball and expect them to know how to shoot. They have to practice. Teaching isn’t about showing off your skills; it’s about helping students build their own.” 

Over time, she has grown more comfortable with making mistakes in the classroom. “I used to worry that if a student said something problematic, everything would fall apart. Now, I know I can go back the next class and say, ‘Here’s how I wish I’d responded.’ It’s another kind of teaching moment, showing that if the goal is to learn, then making mistakes is part of learning.” 

That mindset of learning as a shared, evolving process is what drives her teaching today. She focuses on helping students build lasting skills, rather than cramming in as much content as possible. “It’s about learning how to learn, how to approach text, and how to ask better questions. That’s what stays with people.” 

And stay with them it does. Former students frequently return, sometimes years later, to tell her just how much her classes meant. One former student, now a high school teacher, recounted the impact of her Introductory to Women and Gender Studies course. Another, now in graduate school, recalled every reading and concept from Thorpe’s class. Both times affirmed her passion for teaching.  

Thorpe is also proud to be the co-founder of Decolonizing Lens, a film and discussion series she created in collaboration with Kaila Johnston of the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation and Julia Lafreniere of the Winnipeg Art Gallery. The series showcases Indigenous filmmakers and fosters dialogue on decolonization and storytelling. This June, she will attend ImagineNATIVE, the world’s largest Indigenous film and media arts festival, to discover new works and draw inspiration for upcoming Decolonizing Lens events. 

Currently on research leave, Thorpe is preparing to deliver a workshop to help educators develop their teaching philosophies and build teaching dossiers. She also looks forward to incorporating new storytelling techniques she picked up at a recent workshop into her classes. 

Dr. Thorpe’s dedication to making education relevant, reflective, and inclusive has left a lasting impact on her students and colleagues alike. St John’s College congratulates her on this well-deserved recognition and looks forward to seeing the impact of her work in the years to come. 

She arrived in Winnipeg in August 2018 and began her post-secondary studies at the International College of Manitoba (ICM) before transferring to the University of Manitoba. Adjusting to life in a new country brought some surprises. “Growing up in a conservative country, it was surprising to see things like marijuana being legal or alcohol being allowed on campus,” Rihanah recalls.  

Even the everyday routines felt unfamiliar. Cooking meals from home often meant making trips to several stores for ingredients. Cultural norms around food, religion, and even parenting felt drastically different. “Back home, eating with utensils was considered fancy. Most people just ate with their hands,” she says. She also noted that being Muslim felt different here too. They way Islam is practiced and perceived in Canada doesn’t always match what she grew up with. 

Raihanah has lived in the St John’s College Residence for seven years and describes it as a key part of adjusting well in Canada. “Even though I’m living away from my parents, I don’t feel like a stranger here. The community is small, so you’re likely to walk past the same people often and make new friends.” 

Shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic began, Raihanah had to confront another reality of being Asian in Canada; discrimination. The rise in anti-Asian hate was unsettling. “I’d get long stares when people would walk past me, assuming I was Chinese,” she says. Strangers would ask offensive or ignorant questions like, “Do Chinese people really eat cats?” or “You’re Muslim, so where’s your hijab?” While initially uncomfortable, Raihanah now tries to ease the tension by responding with humor. 

When she’s missing home, attending events hosted by the now-combined Singaporean and Malaysian Student Association helps her feel at home and reconnected with her culture. 

To Raihanah, Asian Heritage Month is an opportunity to celebrate the diversity within Asian communities. “Not all Asian cultures are the same,” she emphasizes. It was important to Raihanah that the different traditions and values were recognized as separate.  

Her advice for newcomers? Don’t isolate yourself. “Go out and make new friends. Even if you’re shy, show up to events, hang out in the dining hall, and eventually someone will come to talk to you. Staying home just makes you more homesick.” 

Like many newcomers to Canada, Rihanah’s adjustment wasn’t always easy. Many deal with the discomfort of culture shock, discrimination and hardship; however, many also find community. Sometimes it’s through communities that share your culture, and other times through those that simply offer support and care. At St John’s College, we strive to offer both. With our diverse community of residents, faculty and staff, we hope you’ll find your home away from home.

A proud Métis woman and Manitoba Métis Federation citizen, Chloe came to law school after completing her Bachelor of Arts in Criminology. She is currently working with a sole practitioner to provide free wills and estate services in Nunavut and will be spending her summer with the Legal Help Centre, continuing her focus on accessible justice. 

“While I am currently in my sixth year of University and did not become a member until my fifth year, I wish I would have been aware of these services earlier because I see how beneficial they are not only in academic success, but also in getting the most out of the entirety of your university experience.”

Although she didn’t attend any events herself, Chloe expressed appreciation for the College’s efforts in hosting social gatherings, like the Welcome Back BBQ and SJC Holiday Party, as well as various workshops. 

“Becoming a member of St John’s College has been extremely beneficial. It is extremely comforting knowing there are so many opportunities and support available, especially for students just starting their university journeys.” 

Chloe was also the recipient of the William E. Harrison Bursary, a source of support that she says made a significant difference in her law school experience. 

“The financial support helped eliminate some of the stress that comes with having to pay tuition and other academic expenses which enabled me to focus more on my studies and extracurriculars. I ended up having one of my best terms yet in law school.” 

The bursary also gave Chloe more time and space to focus on her mental health—something that’s often overlooked in rigorous programs. “I was able to spend more time with friends and family, which is an important aspect of maintaining an overall sense of well-being”. 

It’s never too late to become a St John’s College member 

Whether you’re in your first year of undergrad or well into graduate school, St John’s College welcomes students at any stage of their academic journey. Like Chloe, you can still experience the benefits of community, connection, and support—no matter when you join. 

• Register to become a member
• Explore scholarships and bursaries

Growing up in an unsafe environment shaped by historical and generational trauma, Angela faced adversity that could have easily derailed her dreams. She later experienced a health care crisis and a violent assault—both stemming from institutional systems that have long dehumanized Indigenous Peoples. Rather than let these experiences hold her back, Angela found purpose in them. 

Angela shared with the Canadian Nurses Foundation, “I set my sights on nursing school and challenged myself to learn what it takes to make fundamental changes that will elevate the lives of Indigenous people out of the toxic stress, and destructive physical impacts of Colonial trauma and violence, thus relieving many from chronic diseases.” 

At St John’s College, Angela found her safe space while pursuing her dreams of becoming a Nurse. 

“SJC provided a place of community and acceptance for me. Regardless of background, I often found gentle spirits with welcoming smiles. It was a safe place to join other students who were also degree-driven and striving to better ourselves and our communities.” 

The support from St John’s College became even more critical during challenging moments. When experiencing lateral violence during one school year, Angela found refuge in an SJC study carrel. “It became my safe haven and helped ensure my grades didn’t slip from the added stress.” 

Through it all, Angela remained a serious, committed student. But it was the approachability and accessibility of SJC’s support staff that helped her push through the most difficult times. Daily Bread Café, she recalls, became a comforting place to recharge during summer research at the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation or between classes. “SJC took care of its students by providing a discount at Daily Bread,” she adds with appreciation. 

Angela was also a recipient of the Alfred H. Shephard Bursary, which played a pivotal role in helping her balance school, life, and motherhood. 

“I did my senior practicum in isolated communities up north. I couldn’t come home for three months. The bursary allowed me to afford expensive groceries, access streaming services since outdoor activities were unsafe, and take care of my financial responsibilities back home where my young adult son lived. It relieved financial stress, so I could focus on meeting my degree requirements.” 

But perhaps the most lasting impact was the way SJC helped Angela see her own value. 

“Being a SJC member and scholarship recipient helped me to see my worth and value as a student and human being,” she says. “Growing up, I did not have a support network. I lacked confidence growing up—I had to be strong which can be isolating. But at SJC, I was around people who were also doing good work and supporting one another. It felt really good to fit in.” 

Today, Angela stands as a powerful testament to the life-changing impact of community. 

“SJC helped me to believe I was good enough to deserve good things like my Nursing degree. My goals, hopes, and dreams are coming to fruition”  

Want to follow in Angela’s footsteps? 

• St John’s College Scholarships are now open! Applications are due June 1st. Learn more and apply here. 

• Become a St John’s College member 

Gerd Prehna: Faculty of Science, Department of Microbiology 

Dr. Gerd Prehna is an associate professor in the Department of Microbiology at the University of Manitoba. The Prehna Lab investigates how bacteria interact with their hosts, each other, and other microorganisms through structural biology, biochemistry, and molecular biology. Their primary focus is the biophysical and biochemical characterization of bacterial proteins to explore their functional roles in secretion, disease, and competition between bacterial species. 

I am excited to be a Fellow and join a new community at the University. Expanding my relationships with new colleagues and understanding new perspectives is a welcomed opportunity.

Shirley Thompson: Clayton H. Riddell Faculty of Environment, Earth, and Resources 

Dr. Shirley Thompson is an associate professor at the Natural Resources Institute at the University of Manitoba. Thompson’s research focuses on community-led education on homebuilding, ecosystem restoration, and food with York Factory First Nation and other communities. 

So joyful to be welcomed into a vibrant, caring community at University of Manitoba through this fellowship. The dialogue with community-minded people across many disciplines provides opportunities for collaboration and learning.

Punam Mehta: Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Community Health Sciences 

Dr. Punam Mehta is an instructor in the Department of Community Health Sciences at the University of Mantioba. Mehta’s research is deeply rooted in her hometown of Winnipeg, Manitoba, where she has led significant projects, including a yoga and body mapping initiative for mothers with addictions and a recent study of HIV stigma. 

I’m honoured to join the Fellows at St. John’s College and be part of this diverse community. I look forward to building meaningful relationships, collaborating with fellow scholars, students, and the community, and co-creating spaces for collective growth and transformative learning.

Patty Thille: Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, College of Rehabilitation Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy 

Dr. Patty Thille is an associate professor in the Department of Physiotherapy at the University of Manitoba. She is a hybrid scholar: a physiotherapist by first degree, and medical sociologist by PhD. Her core scholarship bridges critical sociological theories to highlight how discrimination manifests in physiotherapy and primary care, and more importantly, how to disrupt it. She does this work in solidarity with those fighting to end injustice. Outside of the University of Manitoba, she supports the integration of humanities and critical social sciences into physiotherapy through her work on the Executive Committee of the international Critical Physiotherapy Network. 

As someone whose career is built on bridging across disciplinary boundaries, the St. John’s College Fellowship is a great opportunity creating new relationships across disciplines, and campus locations, here at the University of Manitoba.

Welcome to the College, Gerd, Shirley, Punam and Patty! We’re so excited to have you as part of our community!

Born and raised in Ghana, Edmund’s connection to its history runs deep. His maternal hometown, Elmina, is home to Elmina Castle (Fort St George’s)—one of the most significant landmarks of the transatlantic slave trade. Built by the Portuguese in 1482, the castle evolved from a gold trading post into a major center for the enslavement of Africans. 

“In the late seventies, a few hundred years after the castle was built, an extension of it was turned into a community secondary school,” Edmund recalls. “There was enough space for classrooms, a library, a canteen, administrative offices, staff common room, and even an assembly area. I was among the fourth batch of students to attend that school in the eighties.” 

Walking through the very corridors where enslaved Africans were once held left an indelible mark on Edmund’s understanding of history. To Edmund, the relived Castle experience represents the height of man’s inhumanity.  

You see the dungeons where captured slaves were kept, the governor’s balcony overlooking the courtyard where female slaves were held and occasionally selected and sent to the governor’s quarters. A chapel, paradoxically, also served as a slave market where people were traded and branded for shipment. Then there was the dreaded ‘door of no return,’ where slaves were lowered into canoes and sent out to ships bound for the Americas.

In 2013, Edmund moved to Canada, bringing with him a unique perspective on Black history and identity. While he acknowledges the need for Western countries to address historical injustices, he also sees the opportunities Black people receive in Canada. 

Canada is a multicultural country that offers opportunities for people from different backgrounds to succeed. So, despite my issues with the history of the slave trade, I think Black people here could have the opportunity to better their circumstances. 

He reflects on his daughter’s journey in Canada as an example of this possibility. From being a reserved student in Ghana to becoming the President of the Faculty of Arts Student Body Council at the University of Manitoba, she found an opportunity to lead and be an advocate for others. “I asked her if she could have done the same in Ghana, and she said, ‘I don’t think so. Because I found the space here, and I moved to occupy it.’” 

For Edmund, Black History Month is more than just a time to reflect on the past—it’s an opportunity to highlight Black achievements and contributions worldwide.

The late Jamaican reggae musician Peter Tosh said, ‘No matter where you come from, as long as you are a black man, you are from Africa.’ Black History Month naturally emphasizes the struggles, but it also showcases our ability to break glass ceilings across the world as Black people.

While Canada has made strides in embracing Black culture and history, Edmund believes it is ultimately up to Black communities to claim their space. “It’s not necessarily Canada’s responsibility to define our presence. The country has shown openness; now it’s on us to share our stories and push forward.”

Stories like Edmund’s remind us of the importance of honouring the past while forging a path toward a brighter, more inclusive future. 

Othman’s journey to the summit began with an invitation from the Head of the Sociology and Criminology Department. His passion for peacebuilding and social justice guided him to apply. In his application, Othman was asked to define peace and share how he could contribute to peacebuilding efforts. 

Peace is not merely the absence of war or violence, but the presence of cooperation, justice, well-being and respect for all. Peace can only be sustained in a community of justice. If you don’t have justice, you don’t have peace.

For Othman, peace has a deeply personal significance. Having lived through the devastation of war as a child in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, his perspective on peace is shaped by his early experiences of hardship and displacement. He emphasizes that an individual’s measurement and standards of peace are influenced by their lived experiences.

When I started working in Canada at one of the local agencies supporting people who have mental health and addiction issues, many people would tell me it was a dangerous job to do here. It didn’t feel that dangerous because I’ve encountered more precarious situations back home.

At the summit, Othman was surrounded by like-minded individuals, all eager to share their experiences and contribute to global peacebuilding efforts. Delegates from around the world shared personal stories of survival in the face of unimaginable atrocities, highlighting the resilience and hope that can emerge from even the darkest circumstances.  

The stories were emotional, but they showed how resilient we are as human beings — how healing and recovery can take place, and how justice can be achieved.

One of the highlights of the summit for Othman was a study from an Australian scholar on the concept of a “peace index,” which aims to measure global peace and understand its complexities. He was also inspired by a Palestinian-American humanitarian activist who has been helping those displaced by conflict in Iraq, underscoring the importance of addressing gendered discrimination in peacebuilding.

Fleeing to a new country is never an easy journey, and for many participants at the summit, the challenges of adapting to a new life were only part of the struggle. Several shared how, even after escaping conflict and violence, they still grappled with feeling invisible in their new environments. Despite seeking safety, many found themselves marginalized and overlooked. Moreover, speaking out about issues like racism, discrimination, and hate often came at a personal cost.

Reflecting on the impact of the summit, Othman believes the lessons learned will influence both his research and his future work. “I’ve already started discussions with fellow delegates on how to implement the lessons from the summit into local peace initiatives,” he shared. Othman also integrates what he learned into his Sociology and Criminology classes. 

Othman’s experience at the summit reinforced his belief that peacebuilding is both a personal and collective responsibility. Whether addressing systemic injustices or healing from trauma, the journey toward peace is ongoing and requires the efforts of all individuals and communities. 

With a background in Kinesiology and Chemistry from Western University, and experience as a competitive athlete, Dr. Teetzel initially aspired to work in Canada’s sport drug-testing lab. However, a pivotal conversation with her PhD supervisor changed her trajectory. Her supervisor highlighted that the core questions surrounding drug testing were ethical, not chemical. For instance, while a drug test can detect substances, it cannot determine what should be banned in sport or justify restrictions placed on what athletes can consume.  

This insight opened a new world of possibilities for Dr. Teetzel, leading her to study applied ethics in-depth. 

Confronting racism in sport 

Dr. Teetzel’s commitment to fostering positive change extends beyond academics into the realm of sports. Partnering with St John’s College fellow, Dr. Lori Wilkinson, in what she calls a St John’s collaboration, with colleagues in the Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management, Dr. Teetzel contributed to the research informing Winnipeg’s Anti-Racism in Sport Campaign (ARISC). This research was done in partnership with Immigration Partnership Winnipeg (IPW) and 37 community organizations focused on sport, recreation, education, and youth. 

Through focus groups, Dr. Teetzel and the research team uncovered deeply concerning experiences of microaggressions and racist actions in sport, and heard from participants changes they would like to see happen in how racism in sport is addressed.  

Now, Dr. Teetzel is working with the same research team to gain insight into the role of microaggressions, racist actions and racism on the dropout rates of youth athletes, particularly among girls aged 14-17. They hope to make further strides in creating a more inclusive and supportive environment in sports. 

Adapting to a new role

As the former Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies in the Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management, Dr. Teetzel sought out new ways to better support students and create a meaningful experience for them at the University. After returning to her role as a professor, she missed the ability to influence student life in a more direct way.  

When the opportunity at St. John’s College presented itself, Dr. Teetzel saw it as a chance to contribute more actively to students’ overall experiences, ensuring their time at the University of Manitoba was more than just earning a degree. 

What really stands out to me about St John’s College is that it’s a place where everybody has chosen to be. Nobody is required to join. Nobody is required to participate because it’s a course or degree requirement. Everyone, from students to staff and fellows, is here because they have elected to be in order to experience the community, fellowship, and camaraderie of the College.

Dr. Teetzel’s experience offers invaluable lessons: embrace the discomfort of change, trust in your ability to adapt, and focus on the connections you can create along the way. Just as her work continues to impact the lives of students and the broader community, your own journey may lead to opportunities to contribute to something greater than yourself, all while growing and evolving as a professional.

For the 2024 convocation on November 3, SJC is proud to recognize Rt Rev. Helen Kennedy, Dr. Evelyn Forget, and Mr. Jim Ripley. Each of these individuals has had a significant impact on our community, whether as students, on the Council, or in our chapel.

Dr. Evelyn Forget – Honorary Doctor of Canon Law (honoris causa) 

The Professor of Economics and Community Health Sciences is grateful for the recognition of the research she has conducted throughout her UM career. As a researcher examining the health and social implications of poverty and inequality, and as a fellow of the Royal Society of Canada and an Officer of the Order of Canada, Dr. Forget is being recognized for her efforts and petitions to the Federal Government in favor of Guaranteed Basic Income for all Canadians.

In talking with her about what this recognition means, she notes how significant SJC has been in her career. 

“It’s always nice for people to recognize the work that you are doing. I’m also very conscious that the work we do as researchers is very collaborative and being recognized for my work and for having worked with many St John’s fellows is special.”

Evelyn would like to thank SJC Chancellor, Bishop Geoffrey Woodcroft for his support throughout the years on many projects. More generally, she is grateful for the colleagues and students she’s had the pleasure of working with.

Rt. Rev. Helen Kennedy – Honorary Doctor of Divinity (jure Dignitatis)

From UM student to former Council member, Helen Kennedy, Bishop of Qu’Appelle, has made her impact on the College in many ways.

As a Council member who participated in St John’s residence renewal and is committed to the well-being, support, and theological education of young people in managing ministries at the diocesan level, Helen is honoured to receive this recognition. 

“I’m very flattered and grateful for the College. This honour is more than just an award to me; a College is a place of learning, and it’s helped me become the Bishop I am today.”

In her work to become a Bishop, Helen expresses her thanks to former Bishop of Rupert’s Land Don Phillips, former SJC Warden Chris Trott, and her husband for their constant support throughout the years, which helped get her where she is today. 

Mr. Jim Ripley – Honorary Fellowship 

The highly respected lawyer with TDS is being honoured for his more than 25 years of service to the College on Council, and his many contributions to the College.

The College graduate from 1976 was an exceptional Council member, offering critical guidance on many issues. His contributions allowed Mr. Ripley to make a difference in the College community to what it is today.

In catching up with Jim to hear his excitement for November 3, he thanks a few people for helping him get involved.

“I want to thank Bernie Beare for asking me to be involved. He’s a wonderful person.“

“Thank you to St John’s for this award and recognition, and the people currently involved in the College for designating me as an honorary fellow.”

 

In addition to these honorary guests who will be recognized on Sunday, November 3, we also recognize St John’s College student members who will receive various scholarships and bursaries supported by our SJC alumni and community.

These scholarships and bursary recipients include UM students from faculties across campus, including science, art, and engineering. As part of the College membership, these scholarships are one of many opportunities available to students on campus.

On behalf of St John’s College, congratulations to all the 2024 recipients!