You’re invited to help with our Campus Master Plan

As Brandon University (BU) begins planning for our next few decades of growth and development, we are inviting all members of the community to share their visions of the future of the university, including how they currently use and engage with the campus.

BU is working with consultants who specialize in this type of assessment and long-range planning to develop a Campus Master Plan for the University. The Plan will guide future decisions around space planning and the placement and character of new buildings, renovations and expansions, the development of open spaces, and the streets and pathways that make up the campus.

“This is a critical moment in Brandon University’s history, as we take stock of our priorities, objectives and aspirations,” said BU President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Gervan Fearon. “It’s important to us that we hear from faculty, staff, students and community members — indeed as many people as possible so that we can develop a comprehensive vision for the future development of our, and your, campus.”

Consultants from Dialog will be on the BU campus for a series of informal sessions this week, to begin collecting ideas and perspectives from key groups, and there are several opportunities for the general public to participate as well.

On Thursday, Sept. 15, the community is invited to meet with a facilitator from Dialog to learn about the planning process, see some of our objectives up close, and to participate in an informal, interactive discussion about their perspective on the campus, including opportunities and challenges. The public session will be held in the Louis Riel Room, next door to Harvest Hall, BU’s main dining area, from 4:30–5:20 p.m.

On the afternoon of Friday, Sept. 16, community members are also invited to a pop-up open house in the McMaster Hall concourse, accessed from the Louise Avenue entrance to the J.R. Brodie Science Building, which will feature display boards and information about the scope of the plan. Facilitators will be on hand from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., and the display boards will remain up until 4:00 p.m.

“Planning now ensures that the university will be able meet the community’s future needs as effectively and appropriately as possible,” Dr. Fearon says. “For example, student needs are changing, as more people choose to continue their education later in life, combining their degree with raising a family and pursuing a career. These evolving needs require that we bring different approaches to meeting their needs. Similarly, student study places, how science is taught and the quality of these spaces, and our relationship to the City’s future developments are all examples of what the Campus Master Plan needs to consider. Input from across the university and community is therefore very important to us through the process and we look forward to a bright future ahead.”

Dr. Steve Robinson and Scott Lamont will be coordinating the consultation and operational activities associated with the Master Planning process. Updates will be provided regularly at BrandonU.ca/CampusPlan

“This plan will build on our relationships with our faculty and staff, with our business, industry and government partners, and with our neighbours and the community that we’re so proudly a part of,” said Scott Lamont, BU Vice-President (Administration and Finance)

“Through our award-winning research, scholarship, and learning opportunities, Brandon University plays a vital role in Brandon and in Manitoba, and with the help of our community members, our comprehensive Campus Master Plan will ensure that we only continue to improve,” said Dr. Steve Robinson, Vice-President (Academic & Provost).

Brandon University, founded in 1899, promotes excellence in teaching, research, and scholarship, and educates students so that they can make a meaningful difference as engaged citizens and leaders.

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