Veteran MPP to head up 135th anniversary efforts for 2011/2012
(Toronto — September 3, 2010) The Ontario government will officiate the launch of its newest university at a special ceremony next Thursday.
John Milloy, Minister of Training Colleges and Universities, will announce the long awaited plan of university status for OCAD University on September 9 at 4 p.m. at the Welcome Back Corn Roast on the campus at 100 McCaul St.
OCAD University President, Dr. Sara Diamond and Board of Governors Chair Robert Montgomery will be joined by the minister and OCAD alumnus Monte Kwinter, MPP (York Centre) in a celebration at the start of the school year. The celebration will formally confirm OCAD University’s new status. The original institution was founded in 1876 and received its first provincial funding in 1912.
OCADU will be making a highly anticipated announcement about the design firm that will work with the university to develop a new graphic identity reflecting the new name and status. The new identity will reflect OCADU’s continued role as a leader in art and design education, research, sustainability and digital culture.
“This is a momentous occasion for us,” said Dr. Diamond. “September represents the beginning of a new era for our community. We look forward to honouring the contributions of OCADU’s supporters, the beginning of a new year for our students and the evolution of our institution.”
Mr. Kwinter will be named head of OCAD University's 135th Anniversary Committee. The year-long celebration will take place in 2011/2012 starting in the autumn. Mr. Kwinter graduated from the institution in Industrial Design in 1954. He is seen as a strong spokesperson as he has long advocated for university status for OCADU.
"I am delighted to be here with Mr. Kwinter, who has done so much to see OCADU finally get the recognition they deserve," said Minister Milloy.
Minister Milloy, Dr. Diamond, Mr. Montgomery, Mr. Kwinter and representatives of the design firm (to be announced) will be available for interviews.
DATE: Thursday, September 9, 2010
TIME: Welcome Back Corn Roast with Remarks: 4 p.m.
PLACE: OCAD University’s Butterfield Park, 100 McCaul Street, Toronto
About OCAD University (OCADU)
OCAD University (www.ocad.ca) is Canada’s “University of the Imagination.” The University, founded in 1876, is dedicated to art and design education, practice and research and to knowledge and invention across a wide range of disciplines. OCAD University is building on its traditional, studio-based strengths, adding new approaches to learning that champion cross-disciplinary practice, collaboration and the integration of emerging technologies. In the Age of Imagination, OCAD University community members will be uniquely qualified to act as catalysts for the next advances in culture, technology and quality of life for all Canadians.
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For more information, contact:
Brown & Cohen Communications & Public Affairs
416-484-1132, Matt McNama, Ext. 4 and Kaitlynn Dodge, Ext. 5
OCAD University:
Steve Virtue, Director, Marketing & Communications, OCAD University
416-977-6000 Ext. 222
Sarah Mulholland, Media & Communications Officer
416.977.6000 Ext. 327 (mobile Ext. 1327)