The University of Waterloo will spend $10 million to help fund renovations to existing classrooms, social space, student services and the Physical Activities Complex. The investment is part of the University's commitment to providing a vibrant student experience and outstanding academic programming.
“As the University continues to develop and mature, our spaces should reflect our progress. In fact, I think having the right teaching and learning space goes hand in hand with research excellence in determining our success,” said Feridun Hamdullahpur, president and vice-chancellor of Waterloo. “We need to excel in both areas if we want to attract the world’s best students and faculty.”
The allocation of funds includes:
- $400,000 to enhance study space on campus
- $2 million to expand student services
- $1.2 million for improvements to the Physical Activities Complex (PAC), which is home to varsity teams and activities such as convocation and exams
- The balance will go towards space for graduate students, as well as classroom upgrades, including renovating rooms to facilitate collaborative learning through their flexible and customisable design.
"We are excited to invest in these key areas that will ultimately provide better space, services and support for our students," said Chris Read, associate provost, students at Waterloo. "In addition to enhancing our learning spaces on campus, we are also committed to expanding our student experience outside the classroom."
Some planning is already underway, and work will begin within the next 12 months.
"It is our priority that the new building and major renovation projects be attentive to the needs of faculty and students,” said Mario Coniglio, associate vice-president, academic at Waterloo. "We expect these improvements will do much for promoting learning at all levels and enhancing the overall student experience."
The campus community learned about the plan at a mini town hall meeting on teaching, learning and community space last month.
