Ribbon Cutting Celebrates Capital Project's Success

After two years of construction, a global pandemic, and a decade of dreaming and planning, Grebel's new kitchen and renovated dining room are complete! More than 1000 generous donors contributed to making this project a success, generously giving more than $4.2m to the Fill the Table capital campaign.

On June 29, the Grebel community gathered together virtually to celebrate the completion of the new spaces. Donors, alumni, students, faculty, staff, and Board members were treated to a virtual tour and words of introduction and thanks from Marcus Shantz, President, and Fred W. Martin, Director of Advancement. Savio Wong shared about his experience as an alumnus and reasons why he joined the Fundraising Advisory, while Student Council President Mary McPhee shared how happy students are with the new spaces. Food Services Manager Cheri Otterbein noted the many people involved in the project and how pleased kitchen staff are to work in such a bright, beautiful kitchen. Director of Operations Paul Penner and Bob Zehr from Nith Valley Construction spoke more about the many people involved and the satisfaction of completing such an intricate project, while alumnus Brian Rudy of Moriyama and Teshima Architects shared about why he was so excited to work on this challenging renovation and building design. Paul Fieguth spoke on behalf of the Board of Governors who supported this ambitious and vital endeavour from the beginning.

Each participant cut a piece of ribbon in front of their home computer or in a different area of Grebel, showing how the project stretched out from Grebel into an incredibly supportive community of donors. Ed Janzen ended the service with a prayer of blessing.

"Fundraising for the Fill the Table capital campaign over the last five years has demonstrated the commitment our donors have to help build not only buildings, but community at Grebel," reflected Fred after the event. "This renovation and expansion would not have been possible without their support. Thank you to all who contributed so generously to this project.”