CUE names student commons after 40+ year-of-service employee
EDMONTON, Alberta — Concordia University of Edmonton (CUE) announced the grand opening of the Judy Kruse Student Commons, named after one of our longest-tenured staff members at CUE, University Secretary Judy Kruse.
Kruse has spent 43 years working in a variety of positions at CUE after graduating herself from the institution. Her career at CUE has had her serving in roles in records management, as CUE’s registrar, and presently the university secretary, among other positions. Kruse has developed a deep passion for the institution over her decades of time here, and she was surprised with this announcement to honor her steadfast commitment to fostering a community of learning, growth, and student success.
The Judy Kruse Student Commons is the newest addition to CUE’s campus, alongside the recently opened Quad, and serves as a social and study space, a crossroads between CUE’s historical buildings, and a connection point to the under-construction New Academic Building. The Judy Kruse Student Commons features exposed brick walls with works of art from the Budding Art Collective, which provides local artists the opportunity to showcase and sell their art across the city.
Since its soft opening at the start of 2024, the student commons has become a hub of activities where students come to study, socialize, and grab a snack between classes. It has consistently seen students not only passing through the space en route to class, but taking time to make use of the varied seating and admire the surrounding art and decorations.
“Countless memories have already been made in this beautiful, inspiring space, and many more will be made in the months and years to come,” said Dr. Barbara van Ingen, Provost and Vice-President Academic at CUE.
“From the plush, soft seating using our blue and gold Thunder colors to the incredible graffiti art chosen to compliment the brick walls, every detail of this light-filled space was designed with students in mind,” said Dr. Tim Loreman, President and Vice-Chancellor of Concordia University of Edmonton.
“Throughout her entire career, Judy’s steadfast commitment to fostering a community of learning, growth and student success has been unwavering, and that is why today, we are thrilled to announce that her legacy will live on through the permanent renaming of our student commons,” said Dr. Tim Loreman, President and Vice-Chancellor of Concordia University of Edmonton.
“Anyone who knows my mom knows that she is a hard working, dedicated individual who has the mission of Concordia running through her veins. For as long as I can remember, my mother has been the embodiment of dedication, passion, and believes in bringing people together,” said Jennifer Kruse, daughter of Judy Kruse.
“This institution is more than a place of education, it is a place where you connect with classmates, meet new people, live the university life, and make life-long friends. So when we were told that Concordia was naming the new Student Commons in my mom’s honour, it was humbling and I couldn’t think of a more deserving person. Her passion to bring people together – in any capacity – is at the heart of who she is,” said Jennifer Kruse.
“To see my mom’s name reflected upon these walls is a testament not only to her contributions but also to the legacy of her commitment to Concordia, the students, and the lasting impact she has made on the Concordia community. Her unwavering belief in the power of community, education, and giving all you’ve got – has instilled in me a sense of purpose and drive that continues to guide me every day,” said Jennifer Kruse
“Her extraordinary excellence and dedication towards work is an inspiration for all of us. Her contributions to CUE have not only made it easy but also very comforting to everyone,” said Abha Sharma, President of the Concordia Students’ Association.
“Throughout her tenure, Judy has been a steadfast advocate for the enhancement of student life on campus. She has played a pivotal role in organizing events, facilitating communication between students and administration, and championing initiatives that promote inclusivity and community engagement,” said Khalid Iqbal, President of the Graduate Students’ Association at CUE.
“Her genuine care and concern for the well-being of others are evident in her every action, whether it’s offering a listening ear or providing guidance and support during challenging times,” said Khalid Iqbal, President of the Graduate Students’ Association at CUE.
Media Contacts:
About Concordia University of Edmonton
Concordia University of Edmonton is a students’ university, offering more than 50 undergraduate majors, concentrations and minors, 4 master’s degree programs, and 1 doctorate degree program, in addition to several after-degree programs, graduate and undergraduate certificates and diplomas, and continuing education programs. In and out of our classrooms and lecture halls, we translate what we learn into extraordinary hands-on experiences. Our ultimate goal has not changed since 1921: to be more than students and professors, to create a community of active citizens, of good and honourable people. For more information, visit www.concordia.ab.ca.