Connect with permanence
Our BU125 legacy project is a ‘Heart of the Campus’ outdoor classroom.
Drawing inpiration from our Campus Master Plan as well as Mamaawii-atooshke aakihkiwiin, our Strategic Plan, we will fundraise to replace Parking Lot 1 in the central area of campus with a new, green, outdoor learning area. Consultation begins in 2024 with shovels in the ground for 2025.
Land-based learning
Brandon University’s 125-year-old campus is a newcomer compared to the Indigenous traditions and knowledge that are deeply rooted here. We will create a new space on campus that connects to these long-standing practices.
All-season gatherings
Whether hot and humid or cold and blustery, weather needn’t drive us indoors. By designing with appropriate shelter, including shade and windscreens, we can embrace our human connection with the elements — all 12 months of the year.
Flexible features
From Crash the Courtyard to Shakespeare in the Quad, we can create a space that is inviting for people of many interests, and accessible to all. Ensure that campus can connect through performance and oratory as well as through leisure and shared lunches.
Campus connections
The outdoor classroom will help link so many cherished spaces together. While some fire lane and accessibility options will require continued facilities for vehicles, there is opportunity to re-imagine a parking lot as a place to linger and enjoy. Once, all of the Kavanagh Courtyard was parking — it is better used now as a gathering place for people. This will be the same.
Pride crosswalk
Embrace the rainbow crossing as a signature entrance to the outdoor classroom.
Bike corral
Support active transportation campus commutes with links to city trails and bike lanes.
Turtle fire
Weave existing Indigenous influences in the courtyard holistically through the space.
Sculpture garden
Enhance the beauty and meaningfulness of our public spaces with works of art.
Creating a new place for connection
This one big project will be a “signature” for BU125 and will leave a campus legacy for future generations. Originally proposed as a Strategic Plan initiative, this also fits with our Campus Master Plan for indoor and outdoor spaces.