UOIT unveils Regional Municipality of Durham Promenade
October 27, 2008
OSHAWA, ON. - Officials from the Regional Municipality of Durham joined faculty and administration from the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) on campus in Oshawa today for the official unveiling of the Regional Municipality of Durham Promenade.
The Promenade is a covered walkway on the west side of Polonsky Commons, now marked by a commemorative plaque. It pays tribute to the Region of Durham for its continued support of UOIT, which includes a $10-million commitment that has played a significant role in helping the university provide students with a leading-edge learning environment.
"The regional council recognizes the important contribution that the university has made and will continue to make in our communities," said Roger Anderson, regional chair, Regional Municipality of Durham. "UOIT provides economic and educational benefits by offering a university education close to home, allowing for the local development of a highly skilled and innovative workforce. We look forward to an ongoing partnership with UOIT and working together to further strengthen our region."
This generous $10-million commitment is comprised of a gift-in-kind for basic infrastructure such as sewer systems, water mains and improvements to the Commencement Drive entrance off Simcoe Street and pledges to support capital projects and UOIT campus buildings. To date, the university has received $3.8 million in gift-in-kind and $1.4 million in cash installments.
"On behalf of current and future students, staff and faculty, I would like to thank everyone from the Regional Municipality of Durham for this generous gift," said Dr. Ronald Bordessa, president of UOIT. "Today's event marks the recognition of one of the university's longest held partnerships. This partnership, along with UOIT's unique programs, research opportunities, state-of-the-art facilities, and advanced technology-assisted teaching practices, ensures we can offer students everything they need to graduate and go on to greatly contribute to the advancement and prosperity of Durham Region."
This ongoing commitment also recognizes the importance of the shared success between the Region of Durham and UOIT to students, while they are fulfilling their post-secondary studies and preparing to make an impact in the community upon graduation.
UOIT's strong partnerships with community leaders such as the Regional Municipality of Durham open doors to challenging and rewarding careers for students. The Region's financial support is integral to the success of the university and allows for the continued development of UOIT's innovative programs to meet the needs of today's knowledge-based economy.
The Regional Municipality of Durham was one of the first and largest contributors to the university at its inception, ensuring the growth of UOIT while simultaneously building the region's economy. Its community vision is to develop the region into a united group of vibrant and diverse communities recognized for their leadership, spirit and exceptional quality of life.
About UOIT
As an innovative university, UOIT delivers a leading-edge learning environment that uniquely combines academic knowledge, research opportunities, hands-on skills and a vibrant student life. UOIT's more than 5,500 students are taught by professors who are experts in their fields from around the world. As Ontario's first laptop-based university, the university offers a diverse array of challenging undergraduate and graduate degree programs through its faculties of Business and Information Technology; Criminology, Justice and Policy Studies; Education; Energy Systems and Nuclear Science; Engineering and Applied Science; Health Sciences; and Science. UOIT's commitment to research excellence has resulted in millions of dollars in grants and awards, including five Canada Research Chairs. To find out more, visit www.uoit.ca or call 905.721.8668.
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
Michelle Roebuck
Communications and Marketing
Ontario Tech University
905.721.8668 ext. 2197
michelle.roebuck@uoit.ca
