Corporations contribute to SIFC campus project

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On May 15, the Saskatchewan Indian Federated College (SIFC) was presented with another donation for their Home Campus Building project, bringing the college one step closer to its vision.

Steve Smith, vice-president of Weyerhaeuser's Saskatchewan division, presented SIFC president Eber Hampton with a cheque for $500,000. The money will go a long way towards the construction of the new SIFC building.

"Weyerhaeuser recognizes the importance of building strong relationships with our Aboriginal partners, being involved in the development of our communities, and facilitating education and training," Smith said of the donation.

Weyerhaeuser, the world's largest owner of sellable softwood timber, is one of many contributors that have helped out with this project. Fifteen companies have made major contributions of over $750,000. And 80 per cent of the current SIFC faculty, staff and students have personally helped out with the campaign through payroll deductions and other contributions.

"Our donors are giving concrete, lasting support to the talent and hard work of thousands of young people who see education as a tool to improve the quality of life," said Hampton.

The building is located on the University of Regina campus on 32 acres of land donated by the U of R. The new SIFC building will allow the college to house more programs for the growing population of Aboriginal people and, for the first time, will give the 25-year-old college its own campus in Regina.

Construction on the $29.6 million campus building began in April 2001, and is expected to be complete in the spring of 2003. The official opening is scheduled for June 21, 2003, to coincide with National Aboriginal Day.