Expanded Aboriginal Student Centre opens

News Release Release Date: April 4, 2013 1:30 p.m.

An expanded Aboriginal Student Centre at the University of Regina was officially opened today.

The expanded facility, at room 108 in the Research and Innovation Centre, continues with the mandate of providing academic services and social activities to help Aboriginal students make a successful transition to the University of Regina.

"Over the past several years, the Aboriginal Student Centre has become an increasingly important part of the University of Regina campus, providing support services and opportunities for our Aboriginal students, who now comprise approximately 10 per cent of our student population," said Vianne Timmons, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Regina.  "By expanding the Centre, we are continuing our commitment to indigenizing our campus, and are helping all students - Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal alike - develop the skills, knowledge and understanding that is so important in a province as diverse as Saskatchewan."

Also on hand for the event were dignitaries from the province and the city.

The Aboriginal Student Centre (ASC) serves all students on campus, providing Aboriginal culture intrinsically through all programming and services. The mission of the Aboriginal Student Centre is to strive to encourage, empower, and educate by assisting students to strengthen and realize their potential. Whether students are looking for tips on time management, want to connect with social activities on campus, or seek the opportunity for cultural engagement and learning, the ASC can help connect them with the information and support they need. The Centre also provides access to computers, phones, faxing and printing, and friendly staff and students.

There are approximately 1,400 self-declared Aboriginal students at the University of Regina and its three federated colleges.