In June 1982, Catherine Booth Bible College (now William and Catherine Booth College) was officially opened by General Jarl Wahlström during the Canada and Bermuda Territory’s Centennial Congress in Winnipeg. It brought to life a vision that had been nurtured for years in the imaginations of many Salvationists. For the first time, a Salvation Army college offered the opportunity for Salvationists to study in a context in which our theology and traditions were central to the educational enterprise. It took imagination and daring to dream Booth College into existence.

Who could have imagined what would be accomplished at Booth College in the next quarter century?
• Growing from 29 students in 1982 to serve almost 700 students in 2005-2006
• Establishing a highly regarded social-work program
• Becoming a primary provider of officer continuing education in this territory
• Working closely with the Canada and Bermuda Territory in the preparation of its cadets for officership
• Inviting students from around the world to study through distance education

To mark its 25th anniversary, Booth College has been reconnecting with its alumni. Reunions have been held in St. John’s, N.L., Abbotsford, B.C., Brampton, Ont., and Winnipeg. Celebrations with General Shaw Clifton and Commissioner Helen Clifton will take place during our annual graduation weekend. Now, during Celebration OneTwoFive, we invite our alumni to gather in Winnipeg once again to mark the 25th anniversary of the official opening of the college. This occasion will allow graduates to reconnect with the college, catch up with old friends, visit the new library and tour the campus.

- Dr. Donald Burke, President, WCBC