Red Deer College’s Donald School of Business marked its official grand opening recently in its spacious, state-of-the-art downtown campus.
Classes in the school, located in the Millennium Centre, began earlier this month but last week politicians, students, sponsors and staff gathered to celebrate the addition of the campus to the downtown core.
“Our school’s instructors are real business people with a lifetime of experience,” said Joel Ward, Red Deer College president. “I like to tell our students that everyday at the Donald School of Business is like a job interview with a future employer because everyday they are rubbing shoulders with bankers, businessmen and entrepreneurs.
“We have accomplished what some said was impossible – to establish a new campus in the heart of downtown Red Deer in a mere 14 months.”
A range of programs are available from degrees, diplomas and certificates to career advancement certificates, corporate training and professional development opportunities.
“This school delivers a learning experience inspired by the belief that business students must have the opportunity to integrate management theory with the real world of business.”
In October of 2007, RDC announced the naming of the College’s first school in recognition of local entrepreneurs Jack and Joan Donald who also generously donated to the project.
“Thank you to everyone who has made this day possible,” said Joan. “I hear of all the different people who were involved in putting this together, and it’s absolutely wonderful. What teamwork.
“I’ve always believed that to be successful in life you have to have a passion for what you do. There are many people here who are passionate about what they are doing, and it’s contagious – spread it around.”
Currently, about 500 students are taking classes at the campus. It’s also key to helping revitalize the downtown, officials say.
“The presence of RDC students downtown has given it a new energy,” said Mayor Morris Flewwelling. “There has been much talk over the last few years about revitalizing downtown Red Deer and we’re seeing that happen right before our eyes. The grand opening celebration marks a historic day for Red Deer.”
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