Students, faculty and staff at College of the North Atlantic�s Prince Philip Drive campus gathered to mark a milestone in the campus� history today at a ceremony in St. John�s. With funding of $4.5 million provided by the Provincial Government, vast improvements have been made, transforming the building into an accessible, energy-efficient, state-of-the-art facility. The Honourable Joan Burke, Minister of Education, Al Goss, Chair of the Board of Governors, and College President Jean Madill, led today�s ceremony.

"The College of the North Atlantic is an important component of our government�s efforts to build a skilled labour force to meet the demands anticipated with our economic growth, particularly in our oil and gas and mining sectors," said Minister Burke. "This is just one of several major infrastructure projects either completed or now underway for the College at various locations across the province. I�m pleased to see the results of our investment in the Prince Philip Drive campus and am confident it will mean an enhanced experience for students."

Upgrades included a new vapour barrier and insulation, new composite metal panels and a new main entrance and steps. The addition of two new elevator-equipped entrance lobbies greatly improves wheelchair accessibility. The most important aspect of the renovation was the replacement of all windows. The campus was originally constructed using a glass wall building concept. The steel frames had deteriorated and the windows were replaced to ensure a comfortable learning environment. Improvements were also made to trade shops and classrooms.

Board Chair Al Goss said he has heard positive comments from both students and staff at the college regarding the new building exterior, saying the new modern look is indicative of an institution that growing.

"The building has served countless learners in its 45-year history, but time had taken its toll," said Mr. Gosse. "In 2006, the Williams Government announced $4.5 million for much needed renovations to this building. Two years later we have a campus that can once again be called state-of-the-art and I think we can all agree that College of the North Atlantic is an institution that is on the rise, both in Newfoundland and Labrador, and around the globe."

During the ceremony, College President Jean Madill thanked staff and students at the Prince Philip Drive campus for their patience during the construction phase of the project, and noted the renovations mean a lot of positives for all involved.

"The interior and exterior upgrades recently completed at this campus have resulted in a facility that is much more modern and student-centered," said Ms. Madill. "The new elevators have literally opened the doors for our students with disabilities."

Minister Burke pointed out that there have been a series of investments in College of the North Atlantic in recent years, including a $1 million allocation in Budget 2008 to continue the shop modernization program.

"We�ve made tremendous investments in the college system," said Minister Burke. "In the past two years, we have allocated an additional $18.9 million to support new programming, to double the number of seats in trades-related programs, and to upgrade and purchase new equipment. As the only public community college system in the province, it is critical that it have the infrastructure and resources to provide the highest quality training."

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