Aurora Teacher Joe Younder Recognized by St. Michael’s College School

An esteemed educator from Aurora, Ontario, Joe Younder, will be inducted into the Order of St. Michael by St. Michael’s College School this month. The ceremony is set to take place on September 17, 2023, at the Liberty Grand Entertainment Complex. Younder, who has made significant contributions to the school and his community, joins a prestigious group that includes notable figures such as Gerald Emmett Cardinal Carter, Red Kelly, and Frank Mahavolich.

Established in 1996, the Order of St. Michael recognizes individuals who embody the Basilian Fathers’ motto: “Teach Me Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge.” According to the school, Younder has exemplified these values throughout his 24-year tenure at St. Michael’s, serving as an English teacher and debating coach.

In a statement, the school praised Younder for his dedication and impact: “He was a beloved English teacher, department head, and debating coach. After retiring, he remained active through various roles in the Alumni Association, including serving as an ambassador and longtime editor of the school’s alumni magazine.”

Younder expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating that he feels “extremely honoured” to be inducted. He highlighted the importance of the relationships he has built over the years, noting that many of his former students have become lifelong friends. “Teaching is about the connections you make,” he explained.

Reflecting on his journey, Younder shared how he initially entered the teaching profession. After graduating from university, he took a year off to earn money through teaching elementary school. A call from a friend, a teacher at St. Michael’s, led him to apply for a position that had opened unexpectedly. “I didn’t know anything about high school at the time,” Younder recalled, humorously noting his lack of preparation. Nonetheless, he secured the role and spent the next 25 years shaping young minds.

“I enjoy working with young people,” he said. “Their enthusiasm and desire to learn inspire me. For those who struggled, it was a challenge I welcomed.” Younder admitted that he was not always a strong student himself, which fueled his passion for helping students succeed. He wanted to provide them with the support he had once received from his own teachers.

The impact of his teaching extended beyond the classroom. Younder recalled a particularly rewarding moment from his time as a debate coach. He worked closely with a student, Michael Brown, who went on to become an Associate Judge at the Ontario Superior Court of Justice. “To be a teacher is not just an 8 to 4 job,” Younder emphasized. “It’s a 24/7 commitment.”

Younder’s dedication involved attending events, preparing lessons, and balancing family life. He noted that he learned as much from his students during trips to competitions as he did in class. “When you’re working with kids daily, you discover their backgrounds and challenges. Just a few words of encouragement can make a significant difference,” he explained.

As he prepares to receive this honour, Younder’s reflections on his career demonstrate a profound commitment to education and mentorship. His induction into the Order of St. Michael stands as a testament to his enduring legacy and the countless lives he has touched throughout his remarkable journey as an educator.