SASKATOON — On Nov. 2, 2025, St. John’s College, Winnipeg community members came together to recognize the accomplishments of their 2025 graduating members, along with students, fellows, and alumni who have made meaningful contributions to the college.
This year, St. John’s College has been proud to support students across the University of Manitoba by awarding over $200,000 in scholarships and bursaries.
The day’s celebration began with the Founder’s Day Service at the St. John’s Chapel, a time to reflect on the history of the college and remember those who legacies continue to inspire. Afterward, alumni gathered in the Robert Schultz Galleria for a luncheon recognizing Johnians who graduated 25, 40, 50 and 60 years ago.
The afternoon convocation ceremony was the highlight the of the day: recognizing this year’s scholarship and bursary recipients, and conferring honours on outstanding members of their community:
Dr. Karla Jessen Williamson, B.Ed., P.B.Dip.Ed., M.Ed., Ph.D — Doctor of Canon Law (honoris causa)
The Right Reverend Chad McCharles, O.S.B.Cn — Doctor of Divinity (jure dignatatis)
The Right Reverend Geoffrey Woodcroft, Construction Technician, B.A., M.Div., D.D. — Honourary Fellowship, and
Mrs. Jocelyn (Burgess) Barnard, B.Sc., B.S.W. — Honourary Fellowship
Following the conferring of his doctorate, Bishop Chad wrote: “I am deeply honoured to have been awarded the degree of doctor of divinity (jure dignitatis) by St. John’s College (my alma mater) at the University of Manitoba today. I am profoundly grateful to the chancellor, warden and fellows of St. John’s College for this honour, and for the college’s ongoing witness as a place where faith and learning meet in service of God’s world.
“This distinction, as it was explained today, is rooted in the long tradition of the Church and the academy, in recognition of the ministry and leadership of those who serve within the life of the Church and community. This recognition is not mine alone, but shared with all those, lay and ordained, who faithfully serve the Church and its mission, and most of all my family, without whom none of what I do would be possible. To God be the glory.”
