Carleton will have a new aboriginal centre in place by fall 2012, the university announced Jan. 9.
Unlike the existing aboriginal centre, located in 503 Robertson Hall, the new centre will be centrally located on the first floor of Paterson Hall. It will overlook the university’s quad in a “much larger, much newer, and much more accessible” space, said equity services director Linda Capperauld.
The basic layout of the new centre will consist of various meeting rooms and office spaces, as well as a computer and study lounge with a small kitchen, Capperauld said.
While the centre’s design plans are still being drawn, the renovated building will be approximately 1300 sq. ft., according to Naomi Sarazin, Carleton’s aboriginal cultural liaison officer.
Formulated by architect Douglas Cardinal, the centre’s blueprint will be conceived following two public lectures on Jan.13.
“[The centre will be a] hub for the dynamic exchange of ideas and knowledge . . . everyone will be asked to voice their own opinions,” said Capperauld, who said the entire Carleton community will be considered in developing the centre’s vision.
Capperauld called the new centre an important milestone in Carleton’s history. It will unite the university community in a safe environment, she said.
“[The building will be a place] where aboriginal and non-aboriginal individuals can fully participate in the Carleton community, and where both the shared and the separate histories of aboriginal peoples and Canadians can be explored and celebrated.”
