Construction begins on Algoma U's newest addition

NEWS RELEASE

ALGOMA UNIVERSITY

***************************
New residence at Algoma University

SAULT STE. MARIE - Workers begin pouring concrete on Friday for the foundations of a new 96-bed residence at Algoma University.

The new residence is scheduled to open in September 2012, and will bring the total number of beds in the University's residence buildings to 283.

The University is constructing in order to keep pace with the growing number of students who come to Algoma University from outside the region and even outside of the country.

Both the existing on-campus residences and the renovated Windsor Park facility downtown are almost at capacity.

"We know that we have to be able to guarantee students housing if we want to attract them here from out of town, so this new residence is essential to our continued growth," says Algoma University President Dr. Richard Myers.

In keeping with University practice, the new residence will consist entirely of single rooms, with one shared bathroom between every two rooms.

"At a lot of universities, students have to share their residence room, especially if they're in first year. One of the things that makes Algoma an attractive choice is that we can provide our students with a private room," says Director of Student Recruitment Brent Krmpotich.

The new residence will be located north of, and parallel to, the George Leach Centre, creating a new courtyard between the two buildings.

The courtyard will overlook a pond that separates the campus from Snowdon Park.

"One of the collateral benefits of this project is that it's going to create a very inviting pedestrian entrance to the campus from the east. I think people are going to be quite struck at how beautiful that part of the campus will become," says Dr. Myers.

The general contractor for the construction of the residence is Michael Moore.

Expected completion date for the $8 million-project is August 15.

About Algoma University

Algoma University is committed to offering an undergraduate education experience unlike any university in Ontario, offering a wide variety of program options.

Algoma University also offers accelerated diploma-to-degree programs in Business Administration in Brampton, and two degrees, including a Bachelor of Social Work, in Timmins.

As a partner with Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig, Algoma U is committed to respecting Anishinaabe knowledge and culture.

To learn more about Algoma University, visit www.algomau.ca.  

***************************