Construction of Lakehead University’s new veterinary education building is getting underway this week.
The new facility is supporting the Collaborative Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program being delivered alongside the University of Guelph.
A $12.6-million contract has been awarded to Tom Jones Corporation to build the facility, named Gakina Awesiinyag, meaning All Animals (Place For) in Anishinaabemowin.
An Indigenous led ground blessing ceremony took place in June.
“Bringing the Collaborative Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program to life has taken years of planning and the dedication of many people,” said Provost and Vice-President, Academic at Lakehead University, Dr. Gillian Balfour.
“Breaking ground is an incredible milestone, and I expect construction to spark excitement across our campus community as students, faculty, staff, and friends see evidence of Lakehead evolving in new and exciting ways.”
The new building will include modern learning spaces for students and safe housing for both large and small animals, along with storage for feed, bedding, and supplies.
The next phase of the project includes renovating Lakehead’s ATAC and CASES buildings to support clinical training, student life, and anatomy/pathobiology studies.
A builder has not been selected for this portion of the project.
“The agricultural industry is expanding in Northern Ontario, and having well-trained veterinarians is key to sustaining that growth,” said Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth, George Pirie.
“This new program will address the needs of the region with a made-in-the-north solution and help further secure our growing northern economy.”
