The formal dedication of the Helen Betty Osborne Building took place on Thursday, March 1st in the Wii Chiiwaakanak Learning Centre, 509-511 Ellice Avenue.
This emotional and historic event provided a permanent visible recognition of Helen Betty Osborne at the University of Winnipeg, which will serve to honour Aboriginal women and encourage all young Aboriginal people to achieve their full academic and personal potential. The Helen Betty Osborne Memorial Foundation was represented by Marcy Richard and Cecilia Osborne represented the Osborne family. Cecilia’s words to the audience were inspiring as she described her sister’s life and the impact that the programs delivered at UWinnipeg are making on the community.
University of Winnipeg President, Dr. Lloyd Axworthy said “this occasion will remind us all of the life of Helen Betty Osborne and inspire future generations to carry forward her dreams of higher education and teaching.” We are privileged and honoured to be able to make this contribution to her memory and to provide programs that will ensure that we combat racism, gender bias and discrimination, he added.
Speaking for the Province of Manitoba, the Honourable Diane McGifford said, “The Helen Betty Osborne Building is a visible, tangible sign of the University of Winnipeg’s dedication to the education of Aboriginal and inner-city students. On behalf of the Government of Manitoba, I congratulate the University for its determination to create an inclusive campus with strong links to the community.”
