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Ontario government press release - September 4, 2008

McGuinty Government Invests In Algoma University, More Opportunity For North

Sault Ste. Marie has a new university.

Algoma University, formerly known as Algoma College, celebrates a new academic year as an independent, degree-granting institution. The government is investing $2.5 million to help the university make the switch.

The government established Algoma as an independent university in May. This will help attract more students, bring in more research dollars and create more high-paying jobs for Aboriginal and northern students. Algoma is the only university in Ontario to offer a BA program in the Ojibwe language.

Investing in Algoma is part of Ontario’s plan to make high-quality post-secondary education available to students in all parts of the province.

QUOTES

“I want to congratulate Algoma and all those who worked so hard to make this day happen. This funding will help new generations of northern and Aboriginal students achieve their dreams,” said Premier Dalton McGuinty.

“Today's official opening of an independent Algoma University is a historic event that will create growth and prosperity in our community and region. It means our students will have more learning opportunities and a chance to complete their education closer to home,” said David Orazietti, a former member of the Charter Steering Committee for Independence and former board member at AUC.

QUICK FACTS

• The university currently has about 1,200 students — 20 per cent are Aboriginal.
   
• Algoma is now the North’s fourth university, along with Laurentian, Lakehead and Nipissing.
   
• Algoma University has exchange programs with universities in Japan, Finland and Australia.

LEARN MORE

Learn more about Algoma’s partner in Aboriginal education at Shingwauk Education Trust web site at http://www.shingwauk.ca/page.php?p=shingwauk_education_trust_mandate.

Find out how Ontario is helping students afford university.