A leading arts & technology college in Canada has opened a new international centre which it has named in honour of benefactor and industry stakeholder Keith Segal and his family. The 8,000 square-foot facility at Niagara College – officially opened and named this week the Segal International Centre – will help accommodate a growing international student population.
The first-floor facility will provide a one-stop service experience for more-than 1,700 international students studying at the renowned institution in Ontario, which has campuses in Welland, Niagara-on-the-Lake, and Niagara Falls.
An open-concept design features a reception and service area that will include international admissions, housing and financial aid services, along with offices and work space for staff and English as a Second Language (ESL) programmes and international development projects.
“This expansion was driven by the significant growth of our international enrolment, and our efforts to expand the international learning opportunities that we offer our students,” said Sean Kennedy, NC’s vice president of student and external relations. “The centre’s design follows our centralized-service model and reflects our desire to provide excellent service that supports our students’ satisfaction and success.”
“Niagara College shares our recognition of the value of international education and a strong commitment to students”
Niagara College explained that the Segal dedication recognises “a CAN$500,000 contribution from Keith and Sharon Segal, along with their years of support for Niagara College scholarships and learning resources. The Segal’s donation will support scholarships, international learning opportunities and educational resources”.
Segal, President and Founder of Guard.me insurance, commented, “Niagara College shares our recognition of the value of international education and a strong commitment to students. It gives us great pleasure to have our name associated with its new International Centre.”
Niagara College, which has a strong vocational offering, has seen its international enrolment climb from 1,200 students in 2010 to 1,768 students from 68 different countries. The College’s strategic plan for 2013-2016 calls for increased growth in international enrolment, and expanded opportunities for students to study and work abroad.
Welland Mayor Barry Sharpe, who attended the unveiling, noted NC’s growing international enrolment, and the positive economic and cultural benefits that international students bring to the community.
