Algoma University assembles time capsule

MEDIA RELEASE

ALGOMA UNIVERSITY

************************ SAULT STE. MARIE, ON (October 15, 2008) - 2008 has been a momentous year for Algoma University.

To commemorate Algoma University attaining independence from Laurentian University, Algoma U has assembled a time capsule that will be left in the care of the Sault Ste. Marie Museum for the next 25 years.

The capsule will be opened in the year 2033.

Included amongst its contents are many materials that date back to the founding of Algoma University, including the original letters patent that established the former Algoma College in 1964 and a copy of the minutes from the first-ever board meeting.

More recent artifacts include a copy of the Shingwauk Covenant signed between Algoma University and the Shingwauk Education Trust in 2006, a banner from the 2008 independence celebrations that has been signed by students, alumni, faculty, staff and community members, and publicity materials and press clippings relating to Algoma University's becoming independent.

"When we considered items for the capsule, we wanted to document where we started in 1964-67 to remember our original founders and pay homage to the 41 years of excellent teaching and scholarship at Algoma University College," says Ken Hernden, library director at Algoma University. "We also wanted the capsule to include items that demonstrated how hard the university as a community worked for independence in 2007-08. We feel we have struck a good balance in the items we chose to put into the capsule."

Hernden will be delivering the time capsule to the Sault Ste. Marie Museum curator Kim Forbes on Thursday, October 16 at 10:30 a.m.

Hernden believes that the contents will prove instructive and educational to future viewers.

"Time capsules are exciting projects for institutions - everyone that came into contact with this project loved going back through the historical record to see how much we've accomplished. It's easy to forget how much we have done over the years, until you have a project like this to make you reflect and take notice. Twenty-five years from now, when the university is much different, we'll be reminded again of the many people from throughout the community who have contributed to the success of Sault Ste. Marie's university."

About Algoma University

Algoma University is home to approximately 1,200 students.

Offering a wide variety of liberal arts and sciences degree options including programs in computer science, business administration, fine arts, community economic & social development, and biology; Algoma U is committed to offering a personal education experience unlike any university in Ontario.

Algoma University also offers accelerated second degree programs in business administration and computer science on its Brampton Campus through a partnership with the Education Invention Centre of Canada.

To learn more about Algoma University at Brampton, visit this website. To learn more about Algoma University, click here. ************************