Ann Buller – Centennial’s sixth and longest-serving president – returned to Progress Campus on May 10 to receive a special honour after retiring from the college in 2019. More than 100 former colleagues and friends gathered in the Event Centre to welcome Ann back and witness a rare distinction bestowed upon Centennial’s first President Emeritus by renaming the Progress Campus Library the Ann Buller Learning Centre.
Among her many accomplishments during her 15-year tenure as president, Ann Buller oversaw the development of a new library and academic facility at Progress Campus, a commanding building that opened in 2011. Designed by Diamond Schmitt Architects, it features a multi-level library, along with 22 classrooms, a lecture theatre, public gallery and a 16-metre-tall living bio-wall.
“It was Ann’s desire to see the cramped and stuffy library in the C-Block building replaced by a purpose-built facility that is conducive to quiet study and – just as importantly – group study, which is so vital to our international learners who wish to sit together at large tables and study collaboratively to help each other,” former Board of Governors Chair Scott Allison told guests. “Ann’s dedication to Centennial and her passion and commitment towards students will be forever remembered, and we are so proud to unveil the Ann Buller Learning Centre.”
Centennial College President Craig Stephenson remarked to the audience that Ann is an inclusive and exceptional community builder whose insights and creative thinking were best shared early in the morning over a cup of tea – since both leaders make a habit of starting the work day before sunrise. Craig was appreciative of the extensive mentoring that took place between them, allowing him to seamlessly take the reins of the college in 2019.
“Ann profoundly changed this gem of an institution – and also profoundly changed those that she engaged with,” he said enthusiastically. “She led with passion, purpose and endeavoured to surround herself with great people. Ann really moved the needle!” Indeed, it was Ann’s tireless advocacy for Centennial and for public colleges across Canada that saw her receive the Order of Canada last year, recognizing her lifelong dedication to postsecondary education and to improving the lives of others through learning.
In her own remarks, Ann Buller was characteristically gracious in accepting her latest honour. She recalled that in a recent workshop she had attended, few participants indicated they had friendships longer than seven years. Ann was happy to recount that she had gained many friendships at Centennial, some stretching back more than 30 years – a strong indication of her indelible bond with the college community.
“I made four promises at my installation in 2004: to work hard; to listen and learn; to ignite the passion in the college; and, to advocate for Centennial,” she explained. “And I can tell you, I still champion Centennial every chance I get!”
Learn more about Ann Buller’s accomplishments during her 30 years at Centennial.