St. Mary’s University, in South Calgary, has experienced remarkable growth in student enrolments of almost 50% in the past four years alone. With this exceptional growth comes a need for additional instructional, performance, study, and research space. The university is thrilled to announce that, through the support of three long-time donors to the university, it will be opening its new, state-of-the art Heritage Center in September of 2016 — just in time to celebrate the university’s 30th anniversary.

The Heritage Center project officially broke ground in April 2016, and has since made astonishing progress, with plans to officially open for student use as of September 7, 2016. The Heritage Center is connected to the university’s historic buildings along what is known as Heritage Row, and has a direct link to the nearly 100-year-old water tower, which is the only one of its kind in Canada. The new Heritage Center has been designed to complement and accentuate the historic look of the historic buildings, but also to deliver the most modern of resources and conveniences for a 21st century university.

The new building’s central hall will accommodate approximately 150 students, but will also offer open spaces that will foster engaged learning, innovative teaching techniques, and opportunities for faculty and students to interact. The Center has also been designed to convert into a fully-functioning theatre, with retractable seating, high quality AV and projection, and industry standard theatre lighting.

The Heritage Center will provide space specifically for our dynamic Bachelor of Education Program, for drama and choir performances, and for interactive lessons and simulation teaching. It will also provide important space for exhibitions, community events and First Nations, Métis and Inuit gatherings.

St. Mary’s University, Calgary, acknowledges the generosity of Stan & Marge Owerko, Frank and Jeanne Vetsch, and Ed and Agnes Rewucki. Without their tireless support St. Mary’s would not have the opportunity to meet the growing demand for our innovative degree programs.

An official launch of the Heritage Center will take place on November 3, 2016. The community, staff, faculty, and students are all welcome to attend as we give thanks to the donors who made this historic contribution to our university.