As the Strengthen Our Foundation - 3-Year Strategy (2022-2025) approaches its conclusion, we reflect on the achievements, challenges, and growth over the past years. Our capacity to adapt to shifting landscapes has been tested and proven, paving the way for the next phase, Strengthen. Evolve. Thrive. (2025–2030).
Highlights of Achievements and Progress
Centennial College achieved significant milestones aligned with its institutional goals:
Devoted to All Things Student:
Centennial kept students at the core by increasing access to financial aid, including record-setting scholarship programs and targeted supports for marginalized populations. Tools like the progress monitoring system provided tailored interventions, improving student retention and graduation outcomes. Mental health and housing initiatives further underscored the College’s commitment to holistic student well-being.
Academic Agility and Teaching Excellence:
New state-of-the-art labs, and programs such as the Global Perspectives Digital Badge, empowered students with industry-relevant skills. Achievements in experiential learning, including multiple awards at Skills Ontario, demonstrated the College’s dedication to graduate employability and real-world readiness.
Leaders in Institutional Effectiveness:
Centennial introduced advanced analytics, cybersecurity measures, and process improvements that bolstered efficiency and resilience. The operationalization of Centennial’s People Plan underscored a commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.
Embody Indigenization, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion:
Centennial strengthened its dedication to equity, diversity, and inclusion through initiatives like the Indigenous Education Gardens and the Anti-Black Racism Task Force (ABRTF) which advanced progress against the 46 action items identified within the ABRTF Institutional Commitments. These programs created pathways for meaningful change and a stronger sense of belonging within the College community.
Challenges Navigated
External pressures, such as federal policy changes limiting international study permits, created challenges for enrolment strategies and revenue diversification. The College responded with innovative solutions, including targeted domestic enrolment campaigns and the expansion of online learning modalities. Additionally, the rapid adoption of hybrid learning revealed gaps in infrastructure that were quickly addressed through technological investments and faculty development.
Lessons For The Future
From 2022-2025, we gained valuable insights that were used to shape Centennial’s approach moving forward in the following areas:
Collaborative engagement:
Stronger ties with industry, government, and community partners are essential for sustainable progress.
Flexibility in planning:
Adaptability remains critical in navigating policy shifts and industry changes.
Data-driven solutions:
Enhanced use of analytics continues to guide effective decision-making and resource allocation.
Commitment to inclusion:
Embedding equity and reconciliation principles has proven vital to fostering a supportive, diverse environment.