Queen’s University Considers School of Religion Integration

Published on: 2010/08/30 - in News

Theological Hall at Queen's UniversityIn a recent announcement, Queen’s University and Queen’s School of Religion have formally entered discussions to explore the possibility of integrating the school back into the University.

According to the principals of both schools, the proposed move will take place in 2012, which is the centenary of the current affiliation agreement between the School and the University.

Queen’s Principal Daniel Woolf commented “I welcome the prospect of having these discussions and giving leadership to what could be a historic event where the University’s parent is brought back into the fold.”

The institution was founded in 1841 by the Presbyterian Church under the name of Queen’s. However, in order to gain eligibility for provincial funding as a nondenominational institution, Queen’s became independent in 1912.

Principal Jean Stairs of Queen’s School of Religion further added “We recently changed our name, after 169 years, from Queen’s Theological College to the Queen’s School of Religion in order to assume a broader academic mandate within the University and in response to our religiously diverse Canadian context.” He also believed that the School’s adopted strategic plan will only be strengthened by these developments.

Nora Sanders, General Secretary of the Church, said “It is my initial sense that this integration may well be of long-term benefit, ensuring continuing excellence in theological and religious studies programs.”

Additionally, the School’s Board unanimously endorsed the move at a meeting back in July. The integration is expected to be cost-neutral to both parties but would require the approval of the Board of both institutions.

Chair of the Board of the Queen’s School of Religion, Bruce Hutchinson further commented “I look forward to working on a process that will see the School of Religion’s undergraduate and graduate programs in religious studies and theology as integral contributions to the academic life of Queen’s
University.”

Mr. Hutchinson also plans to hold regular Town Hall meetings to receive input and keep students and staff aware of ongoing developments. Queen’s University Faculty Association will be invited to these meetings.

The first Town Hall meeting will be held in room 209 of the Theological Hall at 1300 hours on Tuesday, 31st August.