UOIT/DC campus, Dr. Gary Polonsky receive outstanding architecture awards

OSHAWA, Ont. - Durham College and University of Ontario Institute of Technology president Dr. Gary Polonsky recently received a 2005 Advocate for Architecture Award at this year's Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) Awards of Excellence.

The award recognizes Dr. Polonsky's major contribution to the elevation of architecture and his long-term commitment and support for this profession in Canada.

"I am delighted to have received such a prestigious honour for my part in the creation of the province's newest university," said Dr. Polonsky. "Through innovative design and ingenuity, Diamond + Schmitt Architects Inc. transformed a vision into a spectacular campus that will inspire those who study here. In doing so, they built on a brilliant 'village campus' master plan created by planners Phil Weinstein and Brad Johnston."

"As a crowning achievement in this vision for architectural excellence, he led a process to design and build one of the most environmentally sustainable, collegial and ambitious campuses in Canada at the University of Ontario Institute of Technology," noted the judges from this year's awards.

Diamond + Schmitt Architects Inc. was also honoured with an Innovation in Architecture Award for its work in designing the campus, which includes state-of-the-art academic buildings and an impressive four-storey library, featuring a rotunda on the southwest corner and a two-storey fireplace reading room.

"We were thrilled to receive this award for our work in designing an innovative learning environment that is beautiful, functional, safe, technologically advanced and environmentally friendly," said Donald Schmitt, principal and architect, Diamond + Schmitt Architects Inc. "This is truly a new model for universities in the 21st century."

Representing more than 3,200 architects, the RAIC is a voluntary national association established in 1907 as the voice for architecture and its practice in Canada.

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About the University of Ontario Institute of Technology
As the province's newest university, the University of Ontario Institute of Technology provides a unique combination of academic knowledge, vibrant student life, leading-edge research, and hands-on skills. As Ontario's first laptop-based university, UOIT offers career-focused undergraduate and graduate degree programs in the fields of business and information technology, sciences, engineering, nursing, social science, and education. The university is committed to research excellence and has attracted significant research grants and awards including a Tier 1 Research Chair in Aquatic Toxicology. Sharing facilities and selected services with Durham College, UOIT has attracted over 1,800 students since its inception in 2003. To find out more, visit www.uoit.ca or call 905.721.8668.

Media contacts:

Tania Henvey
Communications and Marketing
905.721.3111 ext. 2513
tania.henvey@dc-uoit.ca

About Ontario Tech University
A modern, forwarding-thinking university, Ontario Tech advances the discovery and application of knowledge to accelerate economic growth, regional development and social innovation. We inspire and equip our students and our graduates to make a positive impact in a tech-focused world. For us, it’s not only about developing the next tech breakthrough. Understanding and integrating the social and ethical implications of technology differentiates us as university. Learn more at ontariotechu.ca.

Media contact
Tania Henvey
Communications and Marketing
Ontario Tech University
905.721.3111 ext. 2513
tania.henvey@dc-uoit.ca