Algoma University in Sault Ste Marie becomes Ontario's newest university
Algoma University News Release
ALGOMA UNIVERSITY IS ONTARIO’S NEWEST UNIVERSITY
SAULT STE. MARIE – Legislation creating Algoma University, Ontario’s newest university, passed third and final reading today in the Ontario legislature.
Algoma University, in Sault Ste. Marie, is Northern Ontario’s fourth university,proudly joining the ranks of Laurentian, Lakehead and Nipissing.
“Algoma University is the place for students who want an innovative, community-based and hands-on education in science, liberal arts, technology and business”, said Dr. Ross, President of Algoma U.
Algoma University offers an individualized undergraduate learning experience in a safe and attractive community, with a specialized Anishinaabe (Indigenous) focus and an international profile.
“This is a historic day for Algoma U and the people of Sault Ste. Marie,” said Dr. Celia Ross. “Today, after 41 years as an affiliate university college, we are becoming Ontario’s newest university. We could not be prouder. As a provincially chartered institution, Algoma University will support the growth of post-secondary opportunities for the students of the Algoma District and beyond. Along side our Anishinaabe partner, the Shingwauk Education Trust, we offer an educational environment of international distinction in an atmosphere of mutual respect. Our future is exciting and bright!”
An independent study commissioned by Algoma U in 2007 pegged the total current annual economic impact of the institution to the community at just over $25 million. This will more than triple as the university grows to 3,500 students over the next years.
As Canada’s national Science andTechnology innovation agenda unfolds, the majority of government and private research and development funding will flow first through universities, and the presence of vibrant university research in Sault Ste. Marie will stimulate the economy of the entire region.
Representativesof the Algoma University Student Union and Shingwauk Anishinaabe Students Association today joined faculty, staff and volunteers in celebrating this special occasion.
Patrick Fontaine, President of SASA, extended his acknowledgement of the passing of legislation creating Algoma University and said, “SASA hopes to continue to build a better working relationship with Algoma University on behalf of Anishinaabe students.”
Matt Shoemaker from AUSU said, “As today marks the first day in the new life of Algoma University, we hope the excitement and vibrancy that exists today is maintained for years to come.”
“TheMcGuinty government is proud to see Algoma join the ranks of our world-class universities that have helped establish Ontario’s reputation as a great place to learn and a smart place to invest,” said Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities John Milloy.
“This is a major step forward for the development of Sault Ste. Marie and for postsecondary education in the North. Our government is committed to ensuring students in all parts of Ontario have the resources they need to reach their full potential,” said David Orazietti, MPP for Sault Ste. Marie.
Since it was first established in 1964, Algoma University College has been an affiliate campus of Laurentian University in Sudbury. Algoma University is the only Canadian university to offer two distinctive programs, a BA in Anishinaabemowin (Ojibwe language) and an honours BA in Community Economic & Social Development. It is also the North American home of the renowned University of Abertay Dundee Masters of Science in Computer Games Technology (MSc CGT) degree.
“In the more than 40 years we have been Algoma University College, we have built partnerships with the private sector, government laboratories, Anishinaabe organizations and other post-secondary institutions”, Dr. Ross said. Now, as Algoma University, these partnerships will drive research and business opportunities that will have an impact on all of Northern Ontario.
With its partner Shingwauk Education Trust, Algoma University has signed a sacred Covenant and has agreed to a statement of common understanding in fulfilling the vision of Chief Shingwauk in the creation of a post-secondary institution called Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig.
Algoma University and Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig are developing specialized programs and services for Anishinaabe and non-Anishinaabe students. Central to this mutual understanding are the approved courses that will be delivered in the fall of 2008 by renowned and respected Anishinaabe Educator, Eddie Benton-Banai, Grand Chief of the Mide Lodge of the Three Fires Confederacy.
Visit: www.algomau.ca
Media Contact:
Donna Woldanski
Divisional Director of External Relations
Algoma University College
Sault Ste.Marie, Ontario
705.949.2301 ext. 4120
Email: donna.woldanski@algomau.ca
Cell: 705.971 5018