MBCI planning 80th anniversary homecoming

Elmwood

East Kildonan

Winnipeg

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This article was published 02/07/2025 (330 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Mennonite Brethren Collegiate Institute is marking a big milestone this fall, and the Elmwood-based school is hoping the community will come out to celebrate.

On Saturday, Sept. 27, MBCI will host an 80th anniversary homecoming. The event, which will take place at MBCI, located at 173 Talbot Ave., will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“Eighty years is a meaningful milestone,” said Cody Quiring, head of advancement for MBCI. “It’s an opportunity to reflect on our past, celebrate our present, and look forward to the future. We have some things to celebrate and some things to share with our attendees of what’s coming in the next 10, 20, 80 years here.”

Since the doors first opened in 1945, over 7,000 students have graduated from MBCI, while hundreds of staff members have also worked at the school over the years.

“The day will bring together alumni from every era, but it’s not just alumni,” Quiring said. “It’s anyone who has made an impact on the school community. We’re known for nurturing students, really in both faith and learning. I think this homecoming will be an opportunity to celebrate that.”

The celebrations will begin with an opening program at Jubilee Place at 10 a.m.

Three distinguished alumni will be honoured during the opening program, as well as at least one long-standing staff member.

“Brian Plett is retiring after 42 years of service to the school,” Quiring said. “It’s so meaningful to celebrate him next week.”

After the opening program, the MBCI campus will be a hive of activity.

“We really wanted to shape this for all generations and community friends,” said Quiring, whose wife is an MBCI alumna. “We have a full MBCI family carnival with bouncy castles, petting zoo, lawn games. We’ll have food trucks for lunch. Beyond that, there will be what we’re calling a roaming and robotics photobooth. There will be pop up Hawks clothing shop to purchase MBCI swag. There will be an alumni basketball skills competition, and a co-ed volleyball tournament.”

Participants will also have an opportunity to peruse old yearbooks, and take in video projects created by Grade 9 students to document the legacy of the school.

“It’s just an awesome opportunity for fellowship, to celebrate,” Quiring said. “We’re excited to connect with old friends and make new ones.”

Those who register for the homecoming in advance will be entered in a draw to win a number of big prizes, Quiring added.

For more information, visit mbci.mb.ca/homecoming-2025