The Scott Bieler Center for Academic Excellence, the largest construction project in Villa Maria’s 64-year history, is now complete. The College will mark this significant occasion with a ribbon cutting ceremony on April 2, 2025, at 11:15 AM.
The Scott Bieler Center for Academic Excellence is dedicated to fostering student success and academic achievement. The state-of-the-art facility was designed to enhance the educational experience for Villa Maria students by providing cutting-edge resources, collaborative learning spaces, and personalized academic support services – all under one roof. This new facility reflects the College’s commitment to academic excellence and student-centered learning.
The project which broke ground in March 2024 was spearheaded by a generous gift from Scott & Kathy Bieler and the Scott Bieler Family Foundation. Bieler, president & CEO of the West Herr Automotive Group, is known throughout Western New York as a local philanthropist.
“We began conceptualizing the Scott Bieler Center for Academic Excellence many years ago,” said Dr. Matthew Giordano, Villa Maria’s president. “Our intention was always to create a space that centralized the innovation, collaboration, and academic successes that define campus. The completed facility squarely checks that box, and it has paved the way for the future. The construction of the Bieler Center is completed, but its impact on our community is only just beginning. This facility is a monumental addition to our small campus, and we are thrilled to finally open its doors to our Villa community.”
“I am proud to support such an outstanding organization,” said Bieler. “Villa Maria is a unique pillar in our community and deserves our community’s gratitude.”
The Scott Bieler Center for Academic Excellence brings the College’s many student support services together in one easily accessible location. This includes:
- The library
- Student Success Center
- Counseling Center
- Career & Internship Services
- Achieve Center for Students with Learning Differences
- Information Technology Services
“The Bieler Center is a game-changer for Villa Maria College,” said Executive Vice President Brian Emerson, who led the project for the College. “It will provide students with state-of-the-art resources, collaborative spaces, and innovative technology that will elevate their educational experience. It’s more than just a building—it’s a place where creativity and community will thrive for years to come.”
The ribbon-cutting ceremony will feature remarks from College leadership, Scott Bieler, President & CEO of the West Herr Automotive Group, donors, and special guests, as well as a tour of the new facility. Members of the media, community leaders, students, faculty, and staff are invited to attend this momentous occasion.
Villa Maria College is located at 240 Pine Ridge Road, Buffalo, NY 14225. On-campus directions, parking, and other pertinent information can be found at www.villa.edu/about-us/sbcae-grand-opening.
To learn more about the project, visit www.villa.edu/bielercenter.
