A challenge gift of one million dollars from the Lyle S. Hallman Foundation will allow Conestoga College to move forward with the first phase of a major project in Waterloo, to enhance and increase technical skills education.
Under the terms of the challenge gift, Conestoga receives $500,000 now, with the promise of an additional $500,000 if Conestoga is successful in raising another $1,000,000 by October of 2007.
The project is the acquisition of a new site in Waterloo: 12 acres and a 123,000 sq. ft. structure formerly occupied by University Heights Secondary School and located on University Ave. E. just east of Weber St. N.
The Lyle S. Hallman Foundation donation will allow Conestoga to move forward with confidence, seeking other supporters and partners to join in the process which will immediately result in a gain of 58 per cent more educational space for Conestoga activities in Waterloo, plus provide long-term prospects for eventual growth to a facility comprising 250,000 sq. ft.
The new Waterloo campus will initially house enlarged facilities for Conestoga's hospitality programs, plus apprenticeship activities in residential-related trades such as plumbing and carpentry. Likewise, related continuing education activities will grow, and a portion of the facility will be devoted to trades-related educational activities for students of the Waterloo Region District School Board.
President John Tibbits states, "There is no question of the importance of the skills agenda to our region, Ontario and Canada. The ability to expand quality skills education within existing apprenticeship areas, to add new apprenticeship areas, and to establish new and better pathways to a seamless education that goes all the way from preparatory studies through to advanced degrees is an opportunity that has tremendous value and potential. We at Conestoga are deeply grateful to the Hallman Foundation for taking such a strong leadership position."
Hulene Montgomery, Executive Director of the Hallman Foundation, comments, "Conestoga is boldly leading the way in encouraging more young people to pursue careers in the skilled trades. Our community's health and prosperity depend on skilled labour, and we applaud Conestoga's vision. The strategic development of a new 12-acre Waterloo campus ensures that Conestoga College has room to grow and meet projected growth in our region. Supporting youth and skilled trades is an investment that benefits our whole community. The Lyle S. Hallman Foundation is excited to partner with Conestoga College."
Lyle Shantz Hallman was committed to the growth, development and prosperity of his community. Hallman was a land developer, a home and apartment builder, and a philanthropist. The Lyle S. Hallman Foundation, a charitable endowment fund established by the Hallman family, has a strong interest in community betterment through education.
CONTACT: Ingrid Town, 519-748-5220, ext. 3490, itown@conestogac.on.ca