And the winners are - Gayle and Alice!

NEWS RELEASE

ECONOMIC DEVELOPERS COUNCIL OF ONTARIO

************************* Algoma U takes top honours

Algoma University College captured top honours at the Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) 2006 Ontario Economic Development Awards, held Thursday, February 8, 2007, at the Toronto Marriott Centre Hotel.

Algoma U received the Workforce Development Award for its Community Economic and Social Development (CESD) Program. Dr. Gayle Broad, director of Algoma U's CESD program, and CESD Research Centre Project Manager Alice Corbiere were on hand to receive the award.

The Ontario Economic Development Awards recognize the efforts of communities in promoting their location and tourism opportunities with awards for winners and honourable mentions.

"This year, over 190 entries were judged," stated 2006 EDCO President George Borovilos, Ec.D (F). "The competition allows local communities to see just how they stack up against other municipalities when it comes to promoting location, investment and tourism opportunities."

Bruce Strapp, CEO for the Sault Ste. Marie Economic Development Corporation states: "Algoma U has created an innovative degree program that will graduate new professionals in community economic and social development that will support communities in their quest. Congratulations Algoma U on winning this prestigious award."

Expert judges reviewed all of the entries that covered everything from promotional brochures to infrastructure development projects.

There are judges from specialized areas of expertise assigned to judge specific categories.

"It is always an honour to accept this award as the competition is very stiff," stated Dr. Broad in accepting the award on behalf of Algoma U. "This competition result demonstrates our effectiveness in our economic development efforts."

EDCO is the country's largest provincial economic development association, offering this program as well as professional development opportunities throughout the year.

Membership is close to 600, coming from both the private and public sector.

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