Centennial College president donates $150,000 to kick off future fundraising campaign

TORONTO, March 1, 2013 /CNW/ - Centennial College President Ann Buller is donating a total of $150,000 to the college in a demonstration of her strong commitment to philanthropy at Ontario's first public college. Her personal donation also serves to kick off Centennial's upcoming fundraising campaign.

The donation will strengthen the college's scholarship and bursary program, creating opportunities for students who may not otherwise have financial resources to access higher education. It will also provide a boost to Centennial's campus expansion plans to accommodate more students and new programs.

"I'm delighted to be able to grant these funds to this life-changing institution. Many of the people who have witnessed transformations in the students who pursue an education with us are inspired to do the same," says Buller, who has served as president since 2004. "I am very proud to be counted among the many faculty and staff who donate generously to this institution. Centennial has a long tradition of helping individuals access education to overcome socio-economic barriers."

President Buller's gift exemplifies the philanthropic spirit that she is known for and has cultivated not only at Centennial, but also at other charities. In addition to her financial contributions to the college's annual golf tournament, she has established three scholarships to assist students in their pursuit of higher education: The David & Isabel Buller Scholarship, The Lesley Russell Scholarship and The Ann Buller Aboriginal Entrance Scholarship.

Details regarding Centennial's ambitious fundraising campaign will be released in the near future. Established in 1966, Centennial College is Ontario's first public college, primarily serving the eastern portion of the Greater Toronto Area through four campuses. It has a record of exemplary teaching, innovative programming and extensive partnership building, and is recognized as one of the most culturally diverse post-secondary institutions in Canada.

SOURCE: Centennial College

Media contact: Mark Toljagic, Communications Officer, Centennial College,
416-289-5000, ext. 7142/[email protected]