John Derksen

Dr. John Derksen served as an Associate Professor of Conflict Resolution Studies at Menno Simons College (part of Canadian Mennonite University) from 2000 until his retirement in 2021. He also taught Ethics, History, and Biblical Studies during his 22-year tenure. His work emphasized building relationships through diverse classroom environments, fostering interfaith understanding among students from varied backgrounds.

Dr. Derksen dedicated over a decade to writing a comprehensive textbook on the global history of peacemaking from 3000 B.C. to the present. His research and teaching focused on practical applications of conflict resolution in urban settings, particularly in Winnipeg's dynamic inner-city environment.

Outside academia, he and his wife Nel engaged in community development projects in the Democratic Republic of Congo, including water infrastructure, education support for orphans, and funding university tuition for formerly disadvantaged youth. His motto, 'Be truthful, be gentle, be fearless' (Gandhi), guided both his pedagogy and humanitarian efforts.

He is remembered for mentoring over 2,000 students who became leaders in social justice and peacebuilding. A memorial service was held following his sudden passing in February 2024.