(BRAMPTON, ON: November 19, 2020): Tonight, as part of a special progress report presented by Craig Fowler, Vice-President of Growth, Innovation and External Relations, the Algoma University Board of Governors were informed of the transformative work underway at its growing campus in the heart of downtown Brampton. The presentation builds off a similar update provided to Brampton City Council earlier this week.
With 680 registered students this fall, enrolment at Algoma’s Brampton campus has grown by 750 percent since 2018. The University has set a goal of expanding to 1000 full-time students by 2023-24. New degree options in Computer Science and Psychology introduced this past September builds upon the success of programming offered by Algoma’s School of Business and Economics.
Although the global pandemic has resulted in shifting all current course offerings to high-quality remote delivery, the University continues to expand facilities and staffing to address current and future growth needs. The University has completed Phase One of a multiphase renovation and expansion of the campus, including developments to support program growth in the School of Business and Economics and the School of Computer Science and Technology. Design work has been completed by Luc Boulaine of the award-winning architectural firm Lebel & Bouliane.
Due to the impact of COVID-19, the University decided to divide Phase Two of campus renovations into two construction cycles. The first cycle, which includes renovating new state-of-the-art classrooms, computer labs, student spaces and a new Welcome Centre, are slated for completion in early January. The next phase of development will begin in April 2021 to complete a new Student Centre and the Centre for Social, Cultural, and Economic Innovation.
Current efforts are intended to support the continued development of the School of Business and Economics, the School of Computer Science and Technology, and Psychology degree options. The University will be expanding elective program offerings next fall to include Sociology, Law and Justice and Community Economic and Social Development (CESD).
“These are exciting times for both Algoma University and the City of Brampton as we transform and expand our campus footprint, academic offerings and world-class university facilities in downtown Brampton,” notes Fowler. “The significant progress we have made and associated economic and social benefits would not be possible without the ongoing leadership and investment provided through our partnership with the City.”
In addition to the Brampton update, Board members were provided with an update on the research efforts being undertaken by Dr. Pedro Antunes, Tier 2 Canada Research Chair (CRC) in the area of invasive species biology. Dr. Antunes recently had his CRC Chairship renewed for five years.
“Even while facing the challenges brought on by the global pandemic, Algoma University continues to move forward in a positive, strategic way,” shared Board Chair, Shelley Schell. “The updates provided this evening regarding the tremendous progress at our Brampton campus and the amazing research being conducted by one of our three Canada Research Chairs exemplifies the excellent work underway.”
The next meeting of the Algoma University Board of Governors is scheduled for January 28, 2021.
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