The new Arts and Administration Building will help the University of Toronto at Scarborough (UTSC) meet the needs of its growing student population, especially in its dynamic visual and performing arts program, President Robert Birgeneau said at the building’s groundbreaking today.
“This new building is not only a significant addition for UTSC but for the University of Toronto as whole? says Birgeneau. “This is an exciting time in U of T’s history. We are creating new facilities on all three campuses to meet the needs of our growing student and faculty population. UTSC is a strong centre for the arts at the University of Toronto and in the local community.?
“The Arts and Administration building will offer wonderful opportunities for many talented students and faculty to develop their creativity,? says Professor Kwong-loi Shun, vice president and principal of UTSC. The $20 million facility will house the visual and performing arts program with studios, classrooms and a 300-seat lecture theatre, as well as offices for senior administration, faculty and staff. “The Arts and Administration building will also provide a new ‘front door’ to the campus, with its Welcome Centre for our community and visitors.? says Shun. “In addition our students will have access to centralized administrative services.? Designed by Montgomery Sisam Architects Inc., the 5,530 sq.m. / 60,000 sq.ft. four-storey building features leading-edge energy efficiency and environmental design. When completed in 2005, the Arts & Administration building will be linked to the new UTSC Student Centre via an elegant pedestrian plaza. “The Arts & Administration building’s innovative design will stimulate great learning and provide an environment that will foster important partnerships with our friends in the arts community,? says Thomas Simpson, chair of Governing Council.
Funding for the facility was provided by U of T’s Enrolment Growth Fund and the Government of Ontario.Founded in 1964, UTSC provides undergraduate and graduate studies with a current enrolment of approximately 8,200 students. Projected enrolment growth anticipates a student population of 10,000 by 2010. Joan Foley Hall, a new residence for 230 students and a new Academic Resource Centre were opened last fall. In addition to the Arts and Administration Building, current campus construction includes a new Management Building and Student Centre, both of which are scheduled for completion in 2004.
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