College Avenue campus renewal project gains momentum

Posted: December 14, 2012 3:30 p.m.

University of Regina President Vianne Timmons with Dr.Roberta McKay and Elmer Brenner. Photo: U of R Photography

Long-time Regina residents and passionate community supporters, Dr. Roberta McKay and Elmer Brenner, have come forward with a gift of $250,000 in support of Building Knowledge – The College Avenue Campus Renewal Project.

“This generous gift is another example of our community coming together in support of this important project,” said University of Regina President and Vice-Chancellor, Vianne Timmons.

The couple says that it was the University’s plans to revitalize Darke Hall and the Conservatory of Performing Arts that inspired them to give and it is their hope that Darke Hall will return to being a dynamic, artistic venue for generations to come.

McKay recalled taking piano lessons in the basement of Darke Hall at College Avenue campus. Every June, she would perform in the annual piano recital on the main stage. Throughout the years, she took theory, harmony and university classes in the College Building and now, feels “really connected to these buildings.”

When speaking about the importance of supporting the project, Brenner shared a short story about a church that was raising money for a restoration project. One day, the church received a small envelope with a donation of 12 cents. On the envelope was a handwritten note that read “This is all I have. I wish there were more. Thank you.” The man had signed his name but instead of his address, he wrote the word “homeless.”

Brenner went on to explain that “the envelope drove other people to get out there, to do more; to do everything they could to make the project happen.”

Deciding that maybe that was what the College Avenue campus project needed too – a little reminder for people to show their support, no matter the denomination – Brenner presented Timmons with a small envelope containing a symbolic 12 cents.

The revitalization of College Avenue campus will transform it into a vibrant, accessible centre of learning, strengthening the University of Regina’s connection to the community and further contributing to the education of the next century of learners and leaders.

Further information about Building Knowledge – The College Avenue Campus Renewal Project can be found at www.uregina.ca/campaign or by calling (306) 585-5703.