Building a More Peaceful Future by Empowering Young People to Share Their Voices

The Arthur V. Mauro Institute for Peace and Justice at St. Paul's College, University of Manitoba, was honoured to welcome Her Excellency the Right Honourable Louise Arbour, Governor General of Canada, for a special fire-side-chat with graduate students enrolled in the University of Manitoba's Peace and Conflict Studies (PACS) programs. 

Hosted in Hanley Hall at St. Paul's College, the event brought together more than 40 master's and doctoral students from across Canada and around the world and faculty for a thoughtful and engaging conversation on peacebuilding, conflict transformation, justice, and international affairs. 

Her Excellency was welcomed by Dr. Christopher J. Adams, Rector of St. Paul's College; Dr. Todd Duhamel, Associate Vice President (Indigenous), University of Manitoba; Dr. Jessica Senehi, Head of Peace and Conflict Studies; and Dr. Stanley Amaladas, Director of the Arthur V. Mauro Institute for Peace and Justice. 

Students had the unique opportunity to engage directly with one of Canada’s most distinguished public leaders, sharing their research, perspectives, and aspirations while gaining valuable insights into leadership, diplomacy, human rights, and peacebuilding in an increasingly complex world. 

Established through the vision and leadership of the Mauro Institute, the University of Manitoba's graduate Peace and Conflict Studies programs have, for nearly two decades, attracted students from around the globe. Graduates of the program make significant contributions to peacebuilding, conflict resolution, justice, public policy, education, and community development in communities and organizations worldwide.

"This visit underscores the importance of creating spaces where students can engage directly with leaders who have dedicated their lives to advancing peace, justice, and human dignity," said Dr. Stanley Amaladas, Director of the Arthur V. Mauro Institute for Peace and Justice.

 "At the Mauro Institute, we believe that lasting peace is shaped by informed and engaged young people who are willing to ask difficult questions, listen deeply, and contribute their voices for the sake of peace and justice.” 

Dr. Christopher J. Adams, Rector of St. Paul's College, noted that the event reflects the College's longstanding commitment to fostering leadership and engaged citizenship. 

"We were deeply honoured to host Her Excellency and welcome her to St. Paul's College. This visit highlights the significant contributions of the Arthur V. Mauro Institute and the Peace and Conflict Studies program in preparing the next generation of leaders committed to peace, justice, reconciliation, and positive social change."

The visit reflects the University of Manitoba's commitment to advancing research, learning, and public engagement on issues of local, national, and global importance. By connecting students directly with accomplished leaders and practitioners, the University continues to prepare graduates to address some of the world's most pressing challenges. 

Through dialogue, learning, outreach, service and partnerships, the Arthur V. Mauro Institute for Peace and Justice at St. Paul's College, University of Manitoba, remains steadfast in promoting peace and justice.