Stories
The Legacy of the Robert Tegler Student Centre
by Sarah Cancian
The events of August 30, 1991 marked the historic beginning of an influential and exciting new addition to Concordia College: the development of the new Robert Tegler Student Centre. Three hundred people including, “students, faculty, staff, members of the Board of Regents, and friends of the College,” gathered at the Student Centre site to celebrate this inspiring event. The Concordian newsletter reported, “The sod-turning party was comprised of Richard Kraemer, President of Concordia College; Mr. Ted Holtby, Mr. Robert Tegler, Mr. Harry Hole,” and others. Much like the gathering of individuals to celebrate this event, the establishment of the Student Centre at Concordia University of Edmonton provides a space where students, faculty, and friends can come together to collaborate, learn, grow, and inspire.
I remember my first day at Concordia University of Edmonton; the Student Centre was filled with students laughing, having fun, and supporting one another; there was an obvious atmosphere of acceptance, support, and motivation. The Student Centre has since played an important role in my experience at Concordia University of Edmonton. It provided many opportunities to celebrate events, cultures, and achievements. Each week, students would gather in the Student Centre to participate in events such as potlucks, music rehearsals, and career fairs, to name a few. The Student Centre would be buzzing with discussion, music, and excitement as the community joined together to support our fellow peers, faculty, and colleagues. From the moment “the silver shovel made its ceremonial dent in the soil, and the Concordia College Choir sang an anthem of praise,” the Robert Tegler Student Centre became and continues to be a space that fosters a sense of belonging and inspires individuals to make a difference. It has become the embodiment of the spirit and connection of Concordia University of Edmonton.
About Sarah
Sarah Cancian graduated as an honours student with distinction from Concordia University of Edmonton in 2020. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in French and a minor in education. Sarah has been a part of the Concordia community for the past five years and is currently there completing an after-degree in Education. After graduation, Sarah plans to pursue a career in elementary education.
CUE Students and Alum to Make Their Own History
Concordia’s CUE 100 committee is very excited to feature the written work of several students and alumni as part of its centenary celebrations. As these celebrations continue, you can look forward to reading short articles by these writers on interesting aspects of Concordia’s history over the past century. Writers were given access to archival documents on particular topics which they were asked to summarize and personally respond to. You’ll be able to discover much about Concordia’s history and how it still resonates among us today. We hope you find these articles both informative and entertaining. Happy 100, Concordians!