Centennial Award Ceremony & Reception

R. WESLEY AFFLECK began as a student at Providence (then, the Winnipeg Bible Institute) in 1931, and over the next 30 years served the institution in various capacities – including as a professor, assistant principal, dean, acting president (1941-1947), and president (1949-1961). Wesley is remembered as someone with “deep spiritual discernment and strong convictions,” and was responsible for the school’s incorporation – allowing WBI to officially grant degrees in the province of Manitoba in 1948. During his presidency, Wesley was also involved in radio ministry with The Radio Bible Class that was broadcast on CJRC between 1943 and 1949 and began an annual Missionary Conference in 1951. After his time at WBI, Wesley moved to British Columbia to work at the Burrard Inlet Bible Institute and Okanagan Bible College, and in 1975, Providence (known then as the Winnipeg Bible College and Seminary) conferred upon him a Doctor of Divinity degree for his significant contribution as an administrator and educator. One of the chapels in the Hanna Centre on the Otterburne campus is named in his honour.

WENDY BEAUCHEMIN PETERSON was a cherished Providence alumna, respected scholar, and passionate advocate for Indigenous education and community development. A Red River Métis woman, Wendy served on the Providence faculty for 19 years, deeply shaping the institution’s academic and spiritual life. She was instrumental in developing a joint degree in Asset-Based Community Development in partnership with NAIITS: An Indigenous Learning Community (formerly the North American Institute for Indigenous Theological Studies), where she also served as a founding board member and journal editor. Wendy held a BA in Biblical Studies and an MA in Theology from Providence and later completed her PhD at Asbury Theological Seminary. Known for her wisdom, joy, and fierce dedication to justice, she was a mentor, colleague, and friend to many. Her legacy continues through the lives she touched and the work she championed. Wendy’s husband recently passed away, but she is fondly remembered and survived by her children Melanie, Chad, Cory, and her many grandchildren.

MARTIN BERGEN was a high-rise developer and philanthropist who was responsible for building multiple apartment complexes in Winnipeg between 1962 to 1988 (including the iconic three-tower development with rotating restaurant, Fort Garry Place). Martin arrived in Winnipeg in October of 1953, where he started working as a contractor – installing drywall and painting houses. By 1962, Martin was in a position to launch his own development corporation with partner Jake Letkemann called Marlborough, which is responsible for constructing dozens of multi-unit residential buildings in Winnipeg and managing thousands of rental properties via Edison Rental Agency. Providence’s former Bergen Hall was named after Martin, which he built and donated to the school in 1984. This building functioned as a men’s residence and retreat centre for many years, until it was unfortunately lost to a fire in June 2017. In 1989, Martin was also awarded the Manitoba Order of the Buffalo Hunt, given to those in the province who have demonstrated outstanding skills in leadership, service, and community commitment.

JONATHAN BONK began working as an assistant professor of bible and missions, and the acquisitions librarian in 1972 – two years after the Winnipeg Bible College acquired its Otterburne campus. Born in Saskatchewan and raised in Ethiopia by missionary parents, Jonathan earned his first degree at Briercrest College, a Bachelor of Religious Education from WBC in 1969, a MA from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Chicago, and a PhD in Missionary Anthropology from the University of Aberdeen. Jonathan was also a missionary to Ethiopia himself, and while he taught missions, anthropology and world religions at Providence, he is best remembered as a “stimulating teacher who combined a keen mind, quick wit and lively humour with a deep love for God.” After moving on from Providence in 1997, Jonathan worked as Director of the Overseas Ministries Study Center, Director of the Dictionary of African Christian Biography, editor of the International Bulletin of Missionary Research, and author and editor of various books, such as Missions and Money: Affluence as a Western Missionary Problem (1991).

HERB BULLER is a distinguished entrepreneurial leader and philanthropist whose influence spans into areas of business and community leadership. Hailing from Winnipeg, with a BSc and Certificate in Education from the University of Manitoba, he initially taught before launching Midland Concrete Products, a successful concrete manufacturer later sold in the late 1980s. Herb also co-founded Kitchen Craft of Canada, which grew to $100 million in sales by 1999 when it was sold to investors. In 2004, together with his four sons, he acquired Norcraft Companies, growing it into a North American industry leader before exiting in 2015. His accumulative business experience earned him an induction into the Manitoba CME Hall of Fame for visionary leadership and innovation. Herb and Erna actively support various initiatives related to education, healthcare, and faith-based leadership/recreational programs. Their legacy at Providence includes establishing the Buller School of Business in 2007, where Herb played a hands‑on role in its design, vision, and financing. Currently serving as president of the Buller Foundation, Herb continues to foster Christ‑centred leadership and learning. His resilience – overcoming personal adversity including cancer – has shaped a legacy of integrity, service, and transformative impact in Manitoba and beyond.

AGNES DEFEHR served as a member of Providence’s Board of Governors between 1995 and 2012 – starting while Larry McKinney was president. She and her husband Frank have been significant financial donors to the school over the years and were responsible for contributing a large amount of furniture in the 1970s when Providence (then Winnipeg Bible College) first acquired the 100-acre campus in Otterburne. The Study Wing was dedicated in honour of the DeFehr family as part of the construction of the Learning Resource Centre during Providence’s “Pursuit of Excellence” fundraising campaign (1997-2000). Agnes was on the hiring committee when Gus Konkel was hired as Providence’s 12th president in 2001. The DeFehrs were also good friends with the subsequent president, David Johnson, as well as the ones who established first contact with Herb Buller (founder of the Buller School of Business) who they initially invited to a Providence banquet. “What has really impacted me about the school is that it is so mission-minded,” Agnes once shared about Providence. “You can be academic and still have a vibrant faith.”

BILL DERKSEN served for 34 years at Providence, starting at Winnipeg Bible College in 1974. Bill’s commitment to the craft of music, composition and arrangement blessed many students throughout the years as he led the Music and Fine Arts Departments. Self-taught from a young age, Bill went on to study and teach music (and science) in numerous places throughout the world and received a Doctor of Philosophy in 1986. Driven by a vision for creativity and expansion, Bill led his choirs on tours throughout North America, Europe and beyond, bringing Providence music to international audiences. In addition to his contributions at Providence, he also contributed to the local Southern Manitoba region by creating the Steinbach Community Orchestra and the Steinbach Community Choir, which still exist today. Bill holds the title of Professor Emeritus, and his legacy at Providence is defined by visionary leadership, a deep commitment to students, and the enduring influence of his work.

WILLIAM EICHHORST devoted his life to Christian education, leadership, and faithful service. After graduating from Dallas Theological Seminary in the early 1960s, he began a decades-long relationship with Providence – then Winnipeg Bible Institute – taking on formative roles as dean of students, professor of theology, academic dean, seminary dean, and ultimately president from 1979 to 1993. Bill’s leadership spanned pivotal moments in Providence’s history, including the transition to the Otterburne campus, institutional renamings, and key developments in infrastructure. He was instrumental in launching Providence Theological Seminary, introducing its Counselling major, and securing accreditation with the Association of Theological Schools (ATS). A builder of both people and programs, Bill also served as Chancellor and left a lasting mark with Eichhorst Hall named in his honour. Remembered for his warmth, integrity, and teamwork – on campus and on the WBC fastball team – his life testified to steady faith and servant-hearted leadership.

KEN HANNA began his journey with Providence – then known as Winnipeg Bible College – as a faculty member. In the pivotal year of 1966, when the institution faced significant uncertainty, he stepped into the role of president, a position he held for 13 years. During his tenure, Ken provided steady, visionary leadership that shaped the future of the institution. Some of his key accomplishments included securing accreditation through the AABC, relocating the school to its current Otterburne campus, growing enrollment from 70 to 400 students, founding the Theological Seminary, and overseeing the construction of the women’s residences, gymnasium, and student centre. In addition to his presidential duties, Ken continued to serve the broader Church by teaching Pastoral Ministry and working as a pastor. His impact also extended beyond Providence, as he later served as president and chancellor of Bryan College, and as vice president and dean of education at Moody Bible Institute.

ALBERT HIEBERT worked at Providence for 26 years – from 1969 to 1995 – as a professor who taught philosophy, logic, theology, world religions, and apologetics. Before he was hired full-time at Winnipeg Bible College in 1971, Al had earned a diploma from Prairie Bible Institute, a BA in Philosophy and Psychology from the University of Manitoba (1967), and a MA in Philosophy of Religion from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Illinois (1969). Al was also a beloved director of Red Rock Bible Camp for eight years (1963-1971) and completed his PhD in Education via New York University in 1978. He was there during the historic transition from the temporary home of WBC at the Fort Osborne Barracks to its new campus in Otterburne, and serving as academic dean for undergraduate studies for 20 years – as well as vice president of administration – Al played a key role in the accreditation process of the institution, ensuring that courses would be transferrable to universities like U of M, and initiating the partnership with Harv’s Air to launch Providence’s aviation program.

SAMSON HKALAM is a prominent Kachin Christian leader, educator and advocate for peace and justice in Myanmar. A 1999 graduate of Providence Theological Seminary (MA in Theology), he also holds a Doctor of Ministry and has served as Chair of the Kachin Baptist Union and General Secretary of the Kachin Baptist Convention – representing more than 400,000 Christians in northern Myanmar. Deeply committed to training leaders, he founded a Bible college, mentored missionaries, championed the rights of displaced persons in conflict zones, and advocated for drug eradication in Kachin State. His leadership has included high-level meetings with global diplomats and government officials to advance humanitarian aid and educational access for refugee children. Widely respected for his integrity, vision, and courage, Samson was awarded an honorary doctorate from Providence in 2017 in recognition of his extraordinary service and enduring impact. In 2022, he was unjustly detained by Myanmar’s military junta. He was sentenced to six years in prison but was released under a general amnesty in July 2024. His courageous witness and servant leadership continue to inspire not only the Kachin Christian community and global partners, but also our Providence community who’ve had the privilege to be a part of his journey.

ALAN HOWISON emigrated to Manitoba from the United Kingdom in 1953. He was a member of the Providence Board of Governors between 1977 to 1984 and 1992 to 2000 – serving as its chair for eight years. Alan’s leadership during a time of national economic recession provided stability and increased enrolments for the College and Seminary. While he was on the board, the new Eichhorst Hall women’s residence was constructed, and the $2.5 million “Pursuit of Excellence” capital campaign was launched, which included the construction of the Learning Resource Centre as well as a number of other campus improvements. Alan was also the executive director of the Winnipeg Foundation from 1976 to 1989, served as a board member at Westwood Community Church and Young Life, a trustee for the City of Winnipeg and the Winnipeg School Division, and in 2005, he was posthumously recognized by Providence with a Distinguished Christian Leadership award. The main meeting room in the Student Life Centre on the Otterburne campus is named in his honour.

DAVID JOHNSON served Providence with distinction for 31 years, culminating in his role as the institution’s 14th President. His journey with Providence began in 1990 when he joined the Seminary faculty to teach New Testament and Greek. He was appointed professor of New Testament in 2000, became dean of the Seminary in 2002, and was named provost and executive vice president in 2007. From 2012 to 2013, he served as interim president before being officially installed as president on September 15, 2013. During his presidency, Providence experienced significant growth and transformation – including the launch of the Buller School of Business, the Bachelor of Science degree program, the construction of Muriel Taylor Hall, and the successful completion of the $14.5 million “Impact 2020” Campaign. David’s leadership was marked by humility, wisdom, and deep faith. His legacy lives on through the students he shaped, the initiatives he led, and the community he faithfully served.

GUS KONKEL, the 12th president at Providence from 2001 to 2012, was not only an enthusiastic teacher of preaching ministry, but also a key driving force in several historical initiatives including: degree recognition with the University of Manitoba, the construction of the Reimer Student Life Centre, the advancement of interactive online education through the support of the Federal Government’s Knowledge Infrastructure Program, as well as the establishment of the Otterburne campus as a model for green energy technologies. Gus’s influence extended beyond Providence to the wider Church. He played a key role as a translator for the Book of Job in the New Living Translation and authored numerous publications on Job and the Old Testament, shaping both scholarship and ministry. During his inauguration speech, Gus said that his goal was “to lead Providence to further advancement in the training of men and women in all that is good, lasting, and enduring” – and he has surely accomplished that goal.

STEVE MASTERSON is a pioneering Christian educator whose leadership helped establish one of Providence Seminary’s most impactful programs: the Counselling department. A 1971 graduate of Providence, he served as dean of students before co-founding the department in 1983 with colleague Don Sawatzky. Drawing on his training at Grace Theological Seminary under Dr. Larry Crabb, Masterson helped shape a curriculum that integrated scriptural depth with clinical excellence. The program grew quickly, becoming the Seminary’s largest and producing generations of faith-informed counsellors across Manitoba and beyond. In 1997, Masterson transitioned into service with Promise Keepers Canada, where he was the Director of Spiritual Formation for many years, continuing his passion for mentoring men in spiritual maturity and relational integrity. Born in Sexsmith, Alberta, his life has been a testimony of grace, resilience, and servant leadership. His enduring legacy is one of Christ-centered care, vocational humility, and transformative influence in both academic and ministry settings.

CAMERON MCKENZIE served Providence with distinction for 40 years as a member of the University College faculty, academic dean, provost, and earned the title of Professor Emeritus. A committed follower of Christ, Cameron’s faith shaped every aspect of his leadership, scholarship, and relationships. His deep love for Providence and its mission was evident in his dedication to academic excellence, faculty development, and the spiritual life of the institution. Known for his wisdom, gracious spirit, and sharp wit, Cameron enriched the Providence community in countless ways – whether in the classroom, at campus events, or through thoughtful conversation. A gifted scholar and communicator, he inspired others to think deeply, listen well, and pursue truth with humility. Beyond Providence, his long-standing involvement in pastoral ministry reflects his enduring commitment to the Church. Cameron’s legacy is one of integrity, kindness, and quiet strength. When he concluded his formal role at Providence, he left behind a stronger, wiser, and more vibrant community – one deeply grateful for his four decades of faithful service.

LARRY MCKINNEY served as the 11th president at what was then Providence College and Theological Seminary between 1993 and 2001. Before arriving in Otterburne, Larry earned a MA in Educational Ministries from Wheaton College in Illinois (1974), a Doctor of Education from Temple University in Philadelphia (1986) and worked as vice president of student development at the interdenominational Philadelphia College of the Bible. During his eight years at Providence, a number of major campus improvements were implemented – including the construction of Eichhorst Hall (i.e. a new women’s residence) and the launch of the “Pursuit of Excellence” campaign to build the Learning Resource Centre as part of Providence’s 75th anniversary. Following his time at Providence, Larry was the executive director at the Association for Biblical Higher Education (2001-2006), the president at Simpson University in California (2006-2013), and currently works as a higher education consultant who specializes in institutional effectiveness, strategy and change for Christian colleges and universities.

MARGARET MOODY was a trailblazing educator and missionary whose deep faith and passion for teaching shaped generations of Christian leaders. Raised in Winnipeg, she earned her first-class professional teaching certificate at age 18, later completing Bible studies at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago. She then served 12 years in Kenya with Africa Inland Mission, leading the Boys’ School at Kijabe, eventually learning their local language and preparing them to take on leadership roles. When she returned from the mission field, she joined Providence – then Winnipeg Bible Institute – becoming one of its first full-time female faculty members. For over two decades (1941-1961), she taught Bible, English, public speaking, and missions, and also served as registrar and dean of women. Her wit, wisdom, and unwavering perseverance made her beloved and indispensable. After her time at Providence, she went on to become the founding superintendent of the Good News Centre, which later became the Christian Youth Centre operated by the Union Gospel Mission. Remembered for her missionary heart and spiritual depth, she inspired countless students toward lives of faith and service. She died in 1990 and a section of Bergen Hall at Providence was named in her honour to perpetuate her memory.

SARA PASICIEL was the catalyst in the creation of Providence’s highly renowned drama program. She started at Providence in 1978, after working as a missionary in Cameroon with her husband and having attained MAs in both Communications and Religious Education. Upon her and her husband Ernie’s arrival at Providence, she quickly jumped in to teach both communications and missions. In 1986, she returned rejuvenated from a sabbatical and set about creating a drama department with her first series of annual productions including The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis. Sara continued to teach communications alongside of writing, producing, and directing an annual play. She also created a Drama Resource Centre to equip others in using drama as a tool for mission and outreach. Sara’s work has made a profound impact at Providence and on the lives of many theatre arts students.

GERALD REIMER was on the Board of Governors for more than 20 years – from Winnipeg Bible College’s acquisition of its temporary home at “The Barracks” in 1967, to its relocation to Otterburne from Winnipeg, to WBC being renamed Providence College and Theological Seminary in 1991. During 1973 to 1980, Gerald also served as chair of the board, during which time the College experienced a significant amount of growth and included the founding of the Seminary in 1972. Professionally, Gerald worked for many years alongside his brothers at Reimer Express Lines, was part of both the Manitoba Trucking Association and the Canadian Trucking Association, served as president of the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce in 1980 to 1981, and was a board member of the Winnipeg Foundation for 20 years. The Student Life Centre on the Otterburne campus is named in his honour and was dedicated by the board of directors from Reimer World Corporation in January 2009 in remembrance of his longstanding support of a Christian vision of excellence in education.

DON STREUBER joined the Providence Board in 1993 as a member of the Finance Committee. Vocationally, Don worked at Sill & Company Chartered Accountants for 18 years and served in the role of vice president of finance at Bison Transport – focusing on strategic planning and special projects. He served on Providence’s board for 20 years, moving from finance committee member to vice chair, and ultimately, to chair of the board in 1999. Don’s business and accounting savvy, his heart and dedication for service, and his good sense of “off the cuff” humour was an asset to the board of directors time and time again. Don’s commitment to Christian Education comes from, as he put it, “a high place in my heart for the ministry of the school. I’m willing to do what I can to make sure it continues.” Don’s generosity and keen adaptation of business principles to a non-profit educational context continues to be extremely effective and valued.

MURIEL TAYLOR was from Halifax and served as one of the founding faculty members of Providence – then Winnipeg Bible Training School – when it opened in 1925. As one of the first three instructors, she helped lay the foundation for biblical teaching at the institution and remains one of the longest-serving female biblical studies professors in Providence history. Her heart for ministry and youth extended beyond the classroom through her work with One Hope Canada (formerly Canadian Sunday School Mission), where she held the position of general secretary and helped build a lasting relationship between the organization and Providence. Beloved by her students for her quick wit, warm smile, and unwavering encouragement, Muriel dedicated over 25 years to shaping lives through teaching. She passed away in 1972, but her influence endures to this day. In 2020, the women’s residence on the Otterburne campus was named in her honour – recognizing her faithful service to God, her students, and the mission of equipping young people for lives of Christian witness and service.

GAIL TIESSEN is the visionary founder of Providence’s TESOL program, where her leadership and innovation laid the foundation for one of Canada’s most respected English language teaching programs. Arriving at Providence in 1989, Gail brought extensive experience in English instruction, curriculum development, and global missions. Her proposal to launch a TESOL course soon blossomed into a thriving certificate and master’s program, preparing Christian educators to serve around the world. Gail’s influence shaped national standards for TESOL education in Canada, and she integrated English language learning with biblical literacy in groundbreaking ways. A mentor to many – including long-time faculty member Dr. Elfrieda Lepp-Kaethler – Gail inspired excellence, cultural sensitivity, and a deep sense of calling. Her contributions have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Lieutenant Governor’s Medal for Literacy. Though now retired, she continues to impact the field through curriculum work and her enduring legacy of faith-driven education and Providence has awarded her Professor Emerita status.

ELMER TOWNS came to Manitoba from the United States to serve as president between 1961 and 1966. Under his leadership, Winnipeg Bible Institute and College of Theology was officially renamed Winnipeg Bible College (1964) and is remembered to have “launched the institute upon a new course of greater academic excellence while still maintaining a high level of spirituality.” Adoption of the song “Great is Thy Faithfulness” as the school hymn can be traced back to Elmer’s presidency, as it was often sung during chapel services in the early to mid 1960s while WBC was facing low enrolment and financial trouble. During his time in Winnipeg, Elmer was also directly involved in the process of WBC becoming a member of the Accrediting Association of Bible College (AABC), which later became the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE). Elmer left Providence a couple of years before the sale of the property at Evergreen Place to pursue a PhD at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Illinois, and he went on to promote and popularize the church growth movement. Elmer was awarded an honorary doctorate by Providence in 2002.

H. L. TURNER was the visionary founder and first president of Providence. Struck by post World War I inflation, social unrest, and waning religious commitment, this clergyman – then pastor at Glad Tidings Church in Winnipeg – felt a profound spiritual burden. Convinced God was calling him to action, on January 4, 1925, Harry launched the Winnipeg Bible Training School in a modest downtown chapel with 26 students and two faculty colleagues, Percival Cundy and Muriel Taylor. Guided by a firm evangelical conviction, he envisioned a school to equip young men and women for church leadership, missions, and faithful witness. Though Harry resigned after one year, his legacy endured: the school evolved – renaming itself Winnipeg Bible Institute in 1929, later expanding into a full degree granting school and eventually becoming Providence University College and Theological Seminary. His courage in answering God’s call set the spiritual and educational foundations that have now seen tens of thousands graduate and serve across the globe.

RAY WARD served on Providence’s Board of Governors for 32 years from 1979 to 2011. Being a successful businessman and farmer, Ray was a key contributor to many of the building projects and initiatives on the Otterburne campus. Always keen to provide assistance no matter how small the project, Ray was instrumental in the water filtration system upgrade and the post-boxes for our students. He spearheaded the campaign for creating the Student Learning Centre, even being the first person to donate to its construction and dedicating a wing to his beloved pastor, Jim Scobbie. In addition to his business acumen, he is also known for being an enthusiastic encourager of others, sharpening and edifying in everything that he did.