Charlene Hoffman–Program Coordinator,
Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board

“Their concrete suggestions and information are based on research and a deep understanding of the issues of dignity, privacy, terminology and equity, and they have made a profound difference to the teachers of Wellington Catholic. The sensitivity, compassion, and understanding of the complexity of these issues shown by Yvonne and Alec is outstanding. Yvonne’s expertise in pedagogy, social justice, and gender and sexuality issues provides the framework; Alec’s reflective observations and insights about his own journey through the school system grounds the concepts in a person’s dignity. Discussion and reflection are encouraged and supported in a respectful manner that encourages growth. Together, Yvonne and Alec create a warm, welcoming and relaxed environment for all people to explore what are often difficult and challenging ideas and tensions, without ever losing sight of the fundamental dignity of all people, most especially the students within our care.”

Jeffrey Warner–Program Coordinator,
Wellington Catholic District School Board

Tamara Nugent, Retired Director of Education, Wellington Catholic District School Board

On June 14, 2022, both Yvonne and Alec brought clarity and a broader understanding to the issues faced by queer youth, as well as the challenges of working as teachers, principals, superintendents, and directors in an environment of suspicion and an atmosphere of fear. They brought home to all of us how important it is to hear and live the Church's teaching to accept and embrace everyone, including those who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+ or who are still on the journey of discovering who God is calling them to be. We learned about appropriate language and terminology, we were given the chance to articulate some of the struggles of working in the environment of suspicion, and we witnessed the power of clear, non-judgmental thought, good scholarship, and humble witnessing to the truth of our students' lives. We heard about the importance of acknowledging that we are all still learning, that we only have the "best we know right now". We were reminded of the critical importance of listening over telling or correcting. Probably most moving was the story Alec shared of his encounter with an older woman in a Catholic Church, just as he was preparing for his graduation Mass. In a very open and honest dialogue, they discovered what was most important to each of them, and she affirmed him with the words,

‘The world needs more people like you.’

A huge thank you to Yvonne Runstedler and Alec Dixon who so eloquently and thoughtfully led us through the "conversation" yesterday on this most important topic about how we accompany each other. Special thanks as well to Tamara Nugent, retired Director of Education with Wellington Catholic, who introduced us to Yvonne and Alec, and supported our learning event with her wise counsel and commitment to accompaniment. It is only together that we move forward.”

Michael Nasello, retired Director of PVNC Catholic District School Board