City funding supports Algoma U's new arts centre

NEWS RELEASE

ALGOMA UNIVERSITY

***************************** City supports Algoma University campaign

Council approves funding for Fine Arts and Music Education Centre

SAULT STE. MARIE - The city's support for Algoma University's Fine Arts and Music Education Centre will help usher in new life for the downtown core, according to Mr. Brian Curran, chair of the Algoma University Foundation's Essential Elements Campaign.

"This support for our campaign is very important and demonstrates to everyone the value of the post-secondary sector to the city," says Curran.

The City of Sault Ste. Marie will be providing $1 million over four years to help create the Algoma University Fine Arts and Music Education Centre, to be developed in one of the community's oldest and most recognizable downtown buildings.

In 2005, the university was given the Windsor Park, a former hotel with a long and illustrious history.

It is closely linked with the life and times of Sir James and Lady Dunn, two of the most influential people in the history of the city.

Stories about the Windsor Park Hotel featuring staff, guests and ghosts abound.

Thanks to the generous donation of the building, with approximately $3.1 million in renovations, the former Windsor Park Hotel re-opened September 2010 as Algoma University's downtown student centre and residence.

Renovations to the balance of the building will be completed to provide a new home for the fine arts and music department and the Algoma Conservatory of Music, in space designed for teaching, practice, performance and exhibition.

The Essential Elements Campaign is raising $6 million to help support three projects critical to the growing university, says Curran.

"The campaign goal includes $1.5 million towards support for the Fine Arts and Music Education Centre. This support brings that project a big step closer to a successful conclusion."

In addition to contributing to the revitalization of the city's downtown core, this new centre will provide an exciting venue for students and faculty to share their passion and enthusiasm.

The Algoma University Foundation has launched a major philanthropic campaign, Essential Elements: The Campaign for Algoma U.

This campaign will build significant philanthropic support for campus development and growth, research projects, artistic programs and financial support for students.

Campaign Chair, Mr. Brian Curran, CEO, PUC Services Inc., leads a strong foundation staff team and a group of dedicated volunteers, all determined to support the expansions of the newly-independent Algoma University.

About Algoma University

Algoma University offers a wide variety of liberal arts and sciences degree options including programs in psychology, computer science, business administration, fine arts, community economic and social development, and biology in Sault Ste. Marie, Brampton and Timmins.

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

Algoma University has launched is Essential Elements Campaign to expand its campus and offer more scholarships and awards to students.

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

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