University of Regina Launches the Community Phase of the College Avenue Campus Renewal Project

News Release Release Date: October 18, 2013 12:00 p.m.

Today the University of Regina launched the community phase of Building Knowledge – The College Avenue Campus Renewal Project – a capital fundraising project to support the revitalization of the University’s historic campus.

Through the initiative, the College Avenue campus will be transformed into a vibrant, accessible centre of learning, strengthening the University’s connection to the community and further contributing to the education of the next century of learners and leaders.

The revitalized campus – which will continue to be home to the Centre for Continuing Education, the Conservatory of Performing Arts, Darke Hall, the Johnson-Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy, and the Lifelong Learning Centre – will be known as the University of Regina Leadership and Outreach Centre (LOC). The LOC will house increased classroom space with smart technology and state-of-the-art meeting rooms. As part of the revitalization, Darke Hall will be fully restored to its former place as one of western Canada’s premier performance venues.

“We have already seen tremendous support for this project from members of the University community and donors to the University,” said President and Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Vianne Timmons. “Our fundraising goal is $10 million, and we are well on our way, having already raised nearly $4 million.

Timmons attributes this early success to the longstanding history of the campus.

“Over the past century, thousands of people of all ages have studied and worked in this historic facility which was built by the community and for the community.  As a result, the College Avenue campus is a space that holds special meaning for so many people, and is a Regina landmark that is treasured and valued by citizens in Regina and throughout the province,” she added.

The University aims to carefully integrate the new construction with the historic College Avenue facilities, ensuring that wherever possible the integrity of the existing buildings is maintained.

Further information about the initiative can be found at www.uregina.ca/building-knowledge or by calling (306) 585-4024.