“It’s difficult to see where Ryerson University ends and the city begins,” said Premier Dalton McGuinty “and I think that is what university is about.”
In a surprise announcement to Ryerson students and faculty, McGuinty announced the government would commit $45 million to the school’s expansion plans.
“When you come, great things happen,” said Ryerson University President Sheldon Levy referring to McGuinty. On a previous visit to Ryerson, McGuinty had announced the government’s ‘Reaching Higher Plan,’ from which Ryerson benefited.
 |
|
Emily Barker/ RyersOnline Staff |
| Premier Dalton McGuinty, left, and MPP George Smitherman, right, announce the funding in Ryerson's Architecture Building. |
McGuinty was accompanied to the announcement by provincial Minister of Health and Long-term Care and MPP for Toronto Centre, George Smitherman.The announcement comes days after Ryerson University President Sheldon Levy announced the school’s $40 million purchase of properties along Yonge Street and the surrounding area, as part of the university’s Master Plan.
Questions were initially raised over where Ryerson had found the money for the purchase and development of the buildings.
The money committed by the premier will be used to develope the new Student Learning Centre on the former Sam the Record Man and Future Shop properties.
McGuinty said he was glad to commit the money to the university’s development because of Ryerson’s distinctive mission not only to serve its students, but the greater community. “Thank you for taking on the responsibility,” the premier said to Sheldon Levy and the Ryerson students that were providing his backdrop.
McGuinty said that the development on Yonge Street will be remembered as one of the most important pieces of city building.
According to McGuinty, universities provide three functions in the community: they enrich the enjoyment of life, they help to build a strong workforce and help to create engaged citizens. But, Ryerson University goes one step further; they engage and try to improve the community around them in the process, “and it’s right to work to build this dream together,” said McGuinty.
