On September 28, Booth University College celebrated the grand opening and dedication of its two campuses, both located in downtown Winnipeg. There was joy and the sound of music in the air as the Heritage Park Temple band, led by Bandmaster Jim Moulton, accompanied the event.

The service opened with prayer and then a land acknowledgment by Captain Crystal Porter, territorial Indigenous ministries consultant, who reminded attendees that such an acknowledgment is more than just words and formalities. “Each one of us are called into the ministry of reconciliation and these words offer a space to hear the stories that are often forgotten,” said Captain Porter.

Rev. (Dr.) Rob Fringer, president of Booth UC, gave a warm welcome and special greetings to the many guests in attendance. Fringer spoke of the past, noting the faithfulness of God, of The Salvation Army, and of countless men and women who have supported Booth UC since its inception and who have made it what it is today.

He also spoke of the future, highlighting several strategic priorities underway and the anticipation of a flourishing future. He concluded with a focus on the audacity of hope, saying: “Indeed! Booth University College has reason for excitement. But it is not just based on our plans; it is based in our hope in God, in our commitment to our purpose and calling as a Christ-centred, educational community, and in our ability to work hard together to bring this future hope into the present.”

Afterward, representatives from all three levels of government brought formal greetings and remarks. This included Terry Duguid, member of Parliament for Winnipeg South, the Honourable Renée Cable, minister of advanced education and training, and Councillor Markus Chambers, acting deputy mayor of Winnipeg.

One of the highlights of the day was the rededication of the Hetherington Chapel in honour of Major Clifford Hetherington. On behalf of the family, Sherill Hetherington spoke glowingly of the arduous work of Major Hetherington and of other Hetherington family members who have played a significant role in the development of Booth UC and who continue to support the mission and vision of the institution. 

Commissioner Lee Graves, territorial commander and chancellor of Booth UC, rounded out the ceremony with the official rededication of the Waldron Building, in honour of Commissioners John and Helen Waldron.

“May we all, like Commissioners John and Helen Waldron, plant a bold vision of hope, mercy and social justice in service to our God. May we all ‘run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfector of faith,’ ” said Commissioner Graves, quoting from Hebrews 12. “May we all join the great cloud of witnesses who honoured their God by serving, educating and loving all those who God brought across their path.”

The service was followed by a ribbon cutting led by Commissioner Graves and assisted by David Michel, chair of the Booth UC Board of Trustees; Jeff Peitsch, vice-president administration, Booth UC; Colonel John Chamness, chief secretary and vice-chair of the Booth UC Board of Trustees; Rev. (Dr.) Rob Fringer; Renée Cable; Terry Duguid; and Councillor Markus Chambers. Guests then enjoyed a meal in the newly finished Booth Bistro and were invited to tour both the Waldron Building campus and the Union Station campus.