Canadian Mennonite University (CMU) is rapidly learning many lessons in leadership and adaptation.

After weeks of uncertainty, CMU President Dr. Cheryl Pauls reports that CMU's Outtatown students are back in Canada and self-isolating. The students were travelling in Guatemala when the COVID-19 pandemic caused cancelled flights and closed borders. Pauls and the staff at CMU learned quickly how to work with government authorities.

"When Guatemala announced that it was closed for two weeks, we were immediately in touch with Global Affairs in Canada, minster Jim Carr's office and the Canadian embassy in Guatemala. Working with the government was a really good experience, there a sense that they were watching out for this group and for anyone else who was vulnerable."

When first told that their trip was ending prematurely, students were disappointed. The students were learning and building relationships with local people, as well as learning local customs. However, Pauls says the students' experience built the muscle memory of trust and resilience.

"They've learned how to live through times of not knowing, patience, resources of creativity and new ways of connecting."

For staff, Pauls says the last few weeks were an exercise in rapid learning. Within the span of two days, faculty has transferred their classes online. Students are also learning quickly. "For many, this is the heaviest time of the year, but also the best time," she says. "Many are cooped up at their parents and working from their homes. They are learning lessons about how they can be alone and do the hardest work of the term and still have a sense of creativity."

Fundraiser moved online

Like many institutions, CMU is grappling with a decline in revenue.

"CMU faces declining giving, reduced summer programming and uncertainty regarding students' capacity to pay since many have lost their summer jobs. Many people who would otherwise be able to give generously are now unable to do so. Many people are faced with the realities of lost jobs and the caregiving of others."

In response, CMU is moving the annual spring fundraising event online. It will be aired at 7 pm, Friday, April 3. Pauls says that it will be 45 minutes long, and feature music, video and student reflections.

Pauls acknowledged the challenges facing the university but remained optimistic about the institution's ability to impact the community.

"CMU isn't the research centre for coming up with a vaccine, but we are an incubator for ways of living in God's gracious abundance of creativity and the flourishing of all. How do we take that into our imaginations for business, society, church, development studies and social entrepreneurship? We want to participate in restored communities, restored lives and health for all going forward."