LAURENTIAN UNIVERSITY NEWS RELEASE: Senate approves new School of Mines and School of Architecture

Sudbury – June 24, 2011 -Tuesday’s Senate meeting at Laurentian University proved to be an eventful one, with both the creation of its new School of Mines, as well as the School of Architecture program being approved.

“Both of these decisions by faculty represent Laurentian’s continued focus on being responsive to the communities we serve,” said Dominic Giroux, president and vice-chancellor for Laurentian University. “The establishment of the School of Mines represents a very significant step, creating a space for faculty from various disciplines to exchange ideas, better align programs and focus on mining related research, and in doing so, continuing to establish Laurentian as the go-to university for mining”.

Michael Lesher, director of mining initiatives at Laurentian University said, “We are striving to become the world’s leading mining-education centre covering the complete spectrum of the mining cycle from exploration to environmental rehabilitation, including cultural and economic sustainability, management, Native studies, and occupational health and safety.  When students worldwide think about mining, we want Laurentian to be top of mind.” 

In addition to the school of mines being created, the school of architecture continues to gain momentum, crossing another item off of the once lengthy list. 

“Receiving architecture program approval means that the academic foundation for the Laurentian School of Architecture is now complete,” said Dr. Robert Kerr, vice-president, academic and provost Laurentian University.  “This achievement represents another major step forward for the school. We are extremely pleased by the recent progress toward realizing the School of Architecture,” added Kerr.  

Laurentian University made two funding announcements recently bringing the total funds raised to date to $36 million.  Planning for the School of Architecture began in 2007 when members of the Greater Sudbury community and Laurentian University representatives recognized the economic development benefits and the opportunity to leverage regional expertise in creating a unique educational opportunity.