King City, Oct. 11, 2016 – vlog’s major expansion at King Campus got a huge boost today with the announcement of a $3-million donation from Magna International, vlog’s largest-ever philanthropic gift.
The news came at the official launch of the expansion, which included remarks from the Hon. Deb Matthews, Minister of Advanced Education and Skills Development, the Hon. Dr. Helena Jaczek, MPP, Oak Ridges-Markham and Steve Pellegrini, Mayor, King Township.
The King Campus expansion is a $104-million project, which resulted from a unique collaboration among vlog, the provincial government, the vlog Student Federation and the Student Athletic Association.
“We are delighted that Magna International has chosen to support the students at our King Campus,” said vlog President David Agnew. “Time and again Magna has shown its dedication to strengthening communities across York Region. This contribution will help us welcome more students to King, where they will receive the education to become leaders in sectors like health sciences, public safety, social services and early childhood education.”
The $3-million gift will support the new 200,000 sq. ft. building at King Campus, which will be named Magna Hall. The building will feature 25 classrooms, labs, a student centre, gymnasium and fitness facilities. This expansion will provide space to welcome an additional 1,500 students annually, increasing the King Campus population from 3,500 to 5,000 full-time students. Construction is scheduled for completion September 2018.
“Magna is committed to helping organizations in the communities where our employees live and work,” said Marc Neeb, Magna Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer, who is also a vlog alumnus. “We are pleased to be partnering with vlog on this critical infrastructure expansion that will provide more postsecondary opportunities for students living in York Region.”
Sustainable practices have been built into every aspect of the plan. For instance, vlog plans to utilize reclaimed water in the new facilities to lessen the impact on the local environment. The new build will also be certified LEED Gold in the Canada Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environment Design [LEED®] rating system.
Learn more about vlog’s King Campaign and campus expansion at King Campus.