Niagara University in Ontario oFicially opened the doors to the newly completed 18,000 square-foot Phase 2 expansion of its campus in the vibrant Vaughan Metropolitan Centre (VMC) in the City of Vaughan. The expansion strengthens the university's commitment to becoming the premier binational university within the Province of Ontario and its more than 40-year legacy of preparing graduates for leadership roles throughout Canada.
The Rev. James J. Maher, president of Niagara University, was joined by Mayor Steven Del Duca, members of Vaughan City Council, MPP Laura Smith, Bishop Boissonneau and the Niagara University Board of Trustees to cut the ribbon at a special dedication ceremony commemorating the momentous occasion.
"This expansion, which is dedicated to the Cortellucci family, elevates our long-standing history and legacy in Ontario," said Father Maher. "For more than 40 years, Niagara University has contributed to the workforce and enhanced the social economy of the Province through our outstanding academic programs that provide pathways to in-demand careers and our community partnerships that ensure our curriculum remains relevant and innovative. This expansion enhances our collaborative and dynamic learning community in Vaughan and underscores our commitment to continuing our impact in the region."
Since 1984, Niagara University has oFered programs in Canada which operate under the written consent of the Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities. The university has maintained strong partnerships with Catholic and public-school boards in Ontario, as well as with many of the colleges in the province. In 2019, it established a permanent location in Vaughan, becoming the first university in the City of Vaughan and York Region, and providing students and alumni with a place to call their Niagara University home.
"Today marks an important milestone for Niagara University in Ontario - and for our city - as the university oFicially opens its doors to the newly completed Cortellucci Family Hall in the phase 2 expansion," said Steven Del Duca, mayor of the City of Vaughan. "Located in the heart of the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre, this new, modern, state-of-the-art facility will provide students and staF with the latest innovations to support their educational journey and nurture the future leaders of tomorrow. I want to thank Niagara University in Ontario for this incredible investment in Vaughan. I look forward to continuing building on our longstanding partnership to support students in Vaughan for generations to come."
The Cortellucci Family Hall is an 18,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility on the Vaughan campus featuring smart technology classrooms, expanded collaboration spaces, student lounge areas, an event venue, and welcoming faculty oFices that will significantly enhance the student experience through modern, innovative, and inclusive learning environments that support academic, personal, and professional growth.
"It's been a privilege for our family to be part of Niagara University's journey in Ontario, from the first campus to the opening of the Cortellucci Family Hall in this exciting phase two expansion," said Peter Cortellucci, a member of Niagara University's Board of Trustees. "We have seen firsthand how the Niagara University community is filled with people who give of themselves every day, inspiring a culture that brings people together. The new state-of-the-art Cortellucci Family Hall will continue to deliver upon that mission providing students with the space to grow, connect, and thrive, while strengthening the bond between the university and the Vaughan community."
Niagara University in Ontario's distinguished, highly qualified faculty members are teacher-scholars who inspire and mentor students to grow personally and professionally. Through teaching, scholarship, and service, they engage with students and exemplify the Catholic and Vincentian tradition that is the hallmark of a Niagara University education and separates it from its peers. Grounded by a progressive internal culture characterized by creativity, flexibility, and collaborative relationships, Niagara University in Ontario faculty and staF help students achieve their goals as scholars and professionals.
Located in the heart of the City of Vaughan, the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre, Niagara University is just steps away from the VMC TTC Subway Station and YRT Bus Terminal at the corner of Hwy 7 and Maplecrete.
