Signed, sealed and delivered: Algoma University

NEWS RELEASE

DAVID ORAZIETTI, MPP

************************* Orazietti announces Algoma University officially independent institution

McGuinty government delivers on new charter expanding opportunity for students in Sault Ste. Marie and beyond

QUEEN'S PARK - At 4 p.m. today the McGuinty government’s legislation to create an independent Algoma University received Royal Assent officially establishing a stand-alone, degree-granting school in Sault Ste. Marie David Orazietti, MPP announced today.

“This is great news for students as the new independent school will offer expanded learning opportunities and a chance for students to complete their education in the community with the support of their family and friends,” said Orazietti, a former member of the Charter Steering Committee for Independence and former board member at AUC. "The establishment of an independent Algoma University is a historic event with the potential to create countless opportunities for growth and prosperity in our community and region.”

Algoma University was officially granted independence by David Onley, the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, at 4 p.m.

The bill was signed by the Queen’s representative after the dissolution of the provincial parliament today.

The practice of signing bills into law at the end of a legislative session is a long-standing parliamentary tradition.

“The McGuinty government is proud to establish Algoma as an independent university to further enhance Sault Ste. Marie as a centre of education, innovation and economic development,” said John Milloy, Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities.

“This is a historic day for Algoma U and the people of Sault Ste. Marie” said Dr. Celia Ross, president of Algoma U. “Today after 41 years, we are becoming Ontario’s newest university. We could not be prouder. Algoma University will support the growth of post-secondary opportunities in Sault Ste. Marie by offering a wider array of degree programs, expanding partnerships, increasing student recruitment, and improving teaching and research capacity. Alongside our Anishinaabe partner, Shingwauk Education Trust, we will develop an educational environment of international distinction in an atmosphere of mutual respect. Our future is exciting and bright!”

The legislation would make the school independent from Laurentian University in Sudbury for the first time in the school’s more than 40 year history.

In 1992, the school announced it would seek a degree granting charter and a formal application was later made to the Minister of Education and Training Dave Cooke that was subsequently unsuccessful.

“Ultimately, Sault Ste. Marie is receiving a stand-alone, degree granting institution because Premier McGuinty and our government dedicated the time and resources necessary to ensure this complicated process was successful,” said Orazietti.

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