Helping Algoma University Grow

September 25, 2009

McGuinty Government Supports Sault Ste. Marie’s New Independent University

Ontario’s newest university is improving the range and quality of programs it offers Sault Ste. Marie-area students.With increased financial support from the Ontario government, Algoma University will continue to grow into its mandate as a degree-granting institution.

Northern Ontario students now have improved access to postsecondary education through four universities offering high-quality programs. Additional funding for Algoma recognizes the higher costs these universities face in serving remote and Aboriginal communities.

“I’m pleased to support Algoma’s growth into independence, and its drive to help Northern students succeed by offering an increased range of high-quality programs.”

– John Milloy
Minister of Training Colleges and Universities

“This investment will help Algoma University hire new instructors and attract more students through an expansion of its course offerings. Our government will continue to provide the resources necessary to help ensure that Algoma is successful as an independent, degree-granting school.”

– David Orazietti
MPP, Sault Ste. Marie

“Algoma University is delighted and very grateful for the support of the Ontario government. Together with our Anishinaabe partner Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig, we are building a university of international distinction that provides accessible university education to students from the Algoma region and beyond. With this commitment from the provincial government, and continued support from the community and our partners, we will enhance our core disciplines, encourage engagement with the communities we serve, and build capacity in the sciences.”

– Celia Ross
President, Algoma University

QUICK FACTS

. To help Algoma grow into its independent status, Ontario is providing over $4 million to the university this year in addition to its regular operating grants.
. Legislation passed in May 2008 granted independence to the former Laurentian University affiliate.
. Algoma received $16 million through the government’s Knowledge Infrastructure program in May 2009 to support a new Biosciences and Technology Convergence Centre.
. Over 20 per cent of Algoma’s students are Aboriginal people.

LEARN MORE

> http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/tcu/
> Algoma University

CONTACTS

Annette Phillips (For media)
Minister’s Office
416-326-5748
Annette.Phillips@nullontario.ca

Tanya Blazina (For media)
Communications Branch
416-325-2746
tanya.blazina@nullontario.ca

For public inquiries call
416-325-2929 or 1-800-387-5514
TTY 1-800-263-2892