Previous | Next 

Abbotsford, B.C.
Columbia Bible College celebrates new athletic complex; graduates 158


The constituency of Columbia Bible College in Abbotsford, B.C. had reason to celebrate with the dedication of a state-of the-art athletic complex and a graduation ceremony April 27 and 28.

Columbia Place, a 22,000-square-foot sports facility, was dedicated April 27. Fred Strumpski, who together with his wife Ella covered all the costs for the building,

Walter Unger

handed over the keys to President Walter Unger at the climax of the 45-minute Grand Opening ceremony.

In his comments, Unger recalled how the Strumpskis had challenged the College to eliminate its long-standing capital debt and then commit itself to remain out of capital debt. As soon as these two conditions were met, his Foundation would construct a gymnasium.

Unger reviewed the steps in the debt-elimination drive and praised two Mennonite donor couples – John and Lorena Redekop and Arthur and Rita Block – who personally committed to cover over half of the $1.9 million still owing as of July 1998. Subsequently, this stimulated the “$800K Drive”, which brought the debt down to zero.

Board Chair Michael Dick gave special recognition to the Strumpskis. Vice-chair Dan Rempel led the congregation in a prayer of dedication. After a rousing rendition of “Joshua Fit Da Battle” by the Columbia Singers, an offering totalling $25,000 for the operating needs of the College was taken.

Merv Boschman, director of development, commented that these donations were another example of the generosity displayed by those who eliminated the debt and the Strumpskis who built the gym.

Following the dedication ceremony, a 160-voice student choir performed some of the world’s greatest choral music (Handel, Mendelssohn and Bach) for 1,600 people. A chamber orchestra and guest soloists Colin Balzer and Melanie Kruger accompanied the choir.

Columbia Place

Commencement ceremony

A record number of students graduated from various college programs on April 28. Academic Dean Ron Penner, Student Dean George Schmidt and Registrar Ian Gibson conferred degrees, diplomas and certificates on 158 students.

The commencement ceremony not only recognized the large graduating class, but also saw the conferral of the title of President Emeritus to outgoing president Walter Unger. Colleague Gerald Janzen and recently retired head librarian David Giesbrecht presented Unger with a copy of the just-released Direction journal (Spring 2001) containing essays honouring him for his 32 years at Columbia and his literary output of 220 published articles and contributions to books. His articles have appeared in 20 magazines and journals.

Following the conferral, Unger spoke to the graduates on the theme “Leaving a Lasting Legacy”. People who leave such a legacy have priorities, purpose and passion that resonate with the heart of God, he said.

Members of the 2001 graduating class

Carmen Neufeld in her valedictory address challenged students not to be satisfied with their present experience of God but to keep on thirsting for more of His wisdom, power and love.

 – adapted from a release

Previous | Next 

Last modified July 9, 2001.

© 2001 Mennonite Brethren Herald.
Published by the Canadian Conference of MB Churches.
Masthead and usage information.