WINNIPEG, MB – As The University of Winnipeg celebrates its 50th anniversary, Leatherdale Hall today officially swings opens its doors as a new meeting space on campus for students and the community, made possible by the generous lead gift of $2.5 million from Louise and the late Dr. Douglas Leatherdale. Adjacent to historic Wesley Hall and connected to Convocation Hall, the addition enhances UWinnipeg’s ability to bring people together to share ideas and knowledge and includes the resurrection of Tony’s Canteen, a beloved gathering space for many. The new flexible space can seat 150 people and be converted to a lecture hall, reception area and break-out room for conferences.
In 1953, a teenaged Dr. Leatherdale moved from his family farm in Morden, Manitoba to attend United College (now UWinnipeg) and maintained a lifelong connection to his alma mater. Passionate about education, the Leatherdale’s have generously contributed more than $6.5 million towards the renewal and construction of essential campus spaces, student supports, and a strengthened academic environment.
“Doug credited this institution with changing his life,” says Louise Leatherdale, widow of the late Dr. Douglas Leatherdale. “This campus has always held a special place in our hearts, so to have the opportunity to give back and be a part of this community for so many years is truly an honour.”
“The Leatherdale family passion for education and building capacity in our community is an inspiration to all of us,” said Dr. Annette Trimbee, UWinnipeg President and Vice-Chancellor. “Leatherdale Hall is a bright and welcoming space that encourages conversations and connections, both for our students and the broader community.”
Leatherdale Hall project management is by UWinnipeg Community Renewal Corporation; the architect is Bridgman Collaborative Architecture; and construction is by Manshield Construction.
BACKGROUND
Dr. Douglas W. and Mrs. Louise Leatherdale
The late Dr. Douglas W. Leatherdale ‘57, United College alumnus and wife Louise have been longtime donors to The University of Winnipeg and The Collegiate. In 1953, a teenaged Dr. Leatherdale moved from the family farm in Morden, Manitoba to attend United College on scholarship and spent four years living in residence in a turret room at Wesley Hall. Having never been away from home, this experience opened his eyes to a new world, introducing him to arts and culture, heated debates and political discussions. Dr. Leatherdale would become Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of The St. Paul Companies, and a founding member of the UWinnipeg’s Foundation. He passed away on December 6, 2015. Louise Leatherdale was born in Duluth, Minnesota and is a graduate of Indiana University. She manages Leatherdale Farms, an international Hanoverian horse breeding operation. The couple also support an endowed fund at UWinnipeg named in memory of Doug’s father, Walter W. Leatherdale, as well as the Dr. Douglas W. Leatherdale Global Internships. These internships provide students an opportunity to enhance their degree programs with credits they obtain through international studies in human rights. These financial supports have helped more than 100 individual students achieve their full potential, with many more to come, a remarkable, living legacy.
Original Tony’s Canteen
Tony’s Canteen
Named after Tony Kozyra, Tony’s Canteen was a meeting place for faculty, students and graduates. Hundreds of parties and socials were planned at the original salmon-coloured tables in the basement of Wesley Hall. Whenever there were late-night events or students studying for exams, Tony kept the canteen open long after midnight and many graduates can still recall the free cup of coffee from Tony when he knew tuition was due.
Despite Tony’s passing in 1965, the canteen remained a fixture on campus until 2007 and was fondly recognized by students, faculty and staff. Tony’s now lives on inside Leatherdale Hall.
Leatherdale Hall supporters
In addition to the lead gift of $2.5 million, the Campaign has raised over $1 million to date from the following generous donors:
Estate of Mr. Wallace C. Schram – $250,000
Jim and Roberta MacDonald – $250,000
Jim and Leney Richardson – $100,000
The Richardson Foundation – $100,000
Hartley Richardson – $50,000
Danny Bubis and Jennifer Blumenthal -$50,000
Barry and Elane Talbot – $50,000
The Winnipeg Foundation – $50,000
Qualico Developments – $50,000
Leonard and Susan Asper – $50,000
Gordon Denford – $50,000
Johnston Group – $50,000
Earl Shepherd – $50,000
Bryce and Nikki Douglas -$50,000
Sandy and Deborah Riley – $50,000
Gail Asper, Michael, Stephen and Jonathan Paterson – $50,000
Anonymous – $25,000
Michael Sydney Gray – $25,000
Robert and Deirdre Kozminski – $25,000
Raymond and Lynne-Anne McFeetors – $25,000
Moffat Family Fund – $23,000
Larry and Carolyn Hursh – $20,000
Birks Family Foundation – $15,000
Annette Trimbee and Kevin Trimbee -$10,000
Ross Robinson – $10,000
Ashish Modha and Chalnessa Eames – $10,000
MEDIA CONTACT
Diane Poulin, Senior Communications Specialist, The University of WinnipegP: 204.988.7135, E: d.poulin@uwinnipeg.ca
