Fanshawe Celebrates Norfolk County Contribution to Simcoe Campus Renovation

The Fanshawe College Foundation hosted a special event on June 29, 2010, at the College's James N. Allan Campus in Simcoe to formally thank the Corporation of Norfolk County for its contribution of $150,000 to the James N. Allan Campus Capital Campaign.

Fanshawe's James N. Allan Campus in Simcoe

Through an enhancement plan, the College plans to invest $2 million in facility updates at the James N. Allan Campus. Last year, the College asked Norfolk County Council to consider a grant of $150,000 to help meet high student demand in the region. In February of this year, the County agreed to make that commitment, supporting an ambitious project that will create flexible classroom and lab spaces, two new shops, computer labs, a resource centre, a student centre, better office space for faculty, and an attractive new entrance.

"We've had record enrolments over the past few years, resulting in a doubling of our student population since 2006," said Donna Gates, Chair of the James N. Allan Campus. "Every seat is being filled and the demand continues to grow."

In particular, the College has added training capacity for the Personal Support Worker and Developmental Services Worker programs. Graduates from these programs support the health care industry, which is growing as the retirement population expands.

"The Simcoe campus is very important to the economic development of Norfolk County," said Les Anderson, a member of the Fanshawe College Board of Governors and Business Administrator for the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit. "If people in town need something done, they usually come to Fanshawe because they know there are good people here."

Norfolk County Mayor Dennis Travale said the grant will support Norfolk's economic foundation.

"Norfolk County is enthused by the plans for development of the Norfolk County campus of Fanshawe College," Mayor Travale said. "Our contribution is viewed by Council and myself as a necessary and vital investment in the infrastructure of our community, more than as a sole contribution to Fanshawe."

Located at 634 Ireland Road in Simcoe, Fanshawe's James N. Allan Campus is noted for its hospitality and client service. Serving the area since 1967, the Campus offers a range of college services and programs including certificate and diploma programs, pre-apprenticeships, continuing education, customized corporate training for business and industry, career and employment preparation, and counselling services.

For further information on the James N. Allan Campus, visit: www.fanshawec.ca/simcoe/.