CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. - Staff, students, government representatives and donors celebrated the completion of the $7.5-million revitalization of the Culinary Institute of Canada during a recent event that featured food samplings, facility tours and the unveiling of the nourish campaign donor wall.
The revitalization, made possible through private donors, the government of Canada and the province of P.E.I., included renovations to approximately 8,500 square feet in Holland College’s Tourism and Culinary Centre, located on the Charlottetown harbourfront. There has been an expansion to incorporate a state-of-the art butchery, a cold cuisine production kitchen and more than $1.8 million in the latest technology and equipment. The dining room was expanded, and the cafeteria was redesigned to better replicate the modern food service environment.
The project also included an in-house growing program, and greening and sustainability imperatives were addressed through enhancements to the building’s mechanical, lighting, building envelope and safety systems.
The federal and provincial governments contributed $5.1 million to the project. An additional $2.4 million was raised through the Holland College Foundation’s Nourish campaign, including a $500,000 investment in student financial aid, from which a new slate of entrance awards for students will be established.
The Island is gaining an international reputation as a culinary destination, and a key asset to this success is the Culinary Institute of Canada, said Kevin Murphy, chairman of the Holland College Foundation’s Nourish Campaign.
“This revitalization effort was not only essential for the college and its students, it was important to industry and the community as well, evidenced by the tremendous support received through private sector donations.”
In thanking the donors, Sandy MacDonald, president of Holland College said their efforts make it possible to foster innovation, broaden knowledge, and best equip the next generation of culinary stars
“This innovative transformation has ensured that The Culinary Institute of Canada is on the forefront of the changing needs of a dynamic, robust, and growing culinary industry.”
For more information about the Culinary Institute of Canada’s programs and for information about the operating hours for the cafeteria and dining room, visit Hollandcollege.com/cic.
