By: Samantha Brazeau-Wilson
The formal opening of the Robert C. Gillett Student Commons building welcomed several students, Student’s Association, college staff and community members as the official green ribbon was cut on Oct. 18.
The event offered many thanks and appreciation to the contributors and people that made the project possible. Since 2003, the building has only been a vision of what could be, and as seen support from members of the SA, board of governors and past college presidents and staff that has made the vision come to life.
“This dream has become such a strong reality in such a short time,” said SA President David Corson. “I find I lose my breath looking around.”
Corson was one of the main speakers along with college President Kent MacDonald and some final thanks and parting words from former president Robert Gillett.
“I think that each of you will walk away today feeling very, very proud,” said Gillett. “Because not only have you impacted today’s students, but you’ll impact generations of students with what you have done.”
Special guests included former SA President Jacob Sancartier, general manager of SA Jack Doyle, former Registrar Deborah Rowen-Legg and college ward Councillor Rick Chiarelli.
Free Starbucks coffee, popcorn and other foods were offered to attendees and passing students. Later a cake and platter of cupcakes was presented by the culinary arts students to close the ceremony.
“This is our heart of the campus,” said Corson. “It beats calm, it beats strong and as we experienced earlier it can beat loud and vibrate within us all.”
Before the ribbon was cut, there was a surprise acoustic performance by Collin MacDonald, from Canadian musical group The Trews, who performed Highway of Heroes. The band later performed at the official opening of the commons theatre as the grand opening festivities continued into the evening.