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Laurier is set to transform Lucinda House into a new Indigenous Student Centre, part of the university’s effort to eliminate barriers for Indigenous learners.
The renovation is being made possible through $700,000 in funding from the Lyle S. Hallman Foundation, Wilfrid Laurier University, the Wilfrid Laurier University Students’ Union and Graduate Students’ Association.
– Jean Becker
"Expanding our space is critical to strengthening resources, giving us greater visibility and providing better service delivery that will help our Indigenous students to be more successful in university," said Jean Becker, senior advisor of Indigenous Initiatives. "We want to create a place where students feel like they belong and can find support."
Located at 157 Albert St., Lucinda House is a 2,200-square-foot, two-floor heritage home at the edge of Laurier’s Waterloo campus. A 12-month renovation of the building will see the main floor configured for delivery of Indigenous student services, public programming and greater accessibility.
The current Waterloo campus Indigenous Student Centre, located at 187 Albert St., will be relocated to the new facility when the renovation is complete.
"When we visited the current Indigenous Student Centre, we were struck by the deep connection the students feel to the physical space," said Laura Manning, executive director for the Lyle S. Hallman Foundation. "It provides a true home base and sense of community. The new The Nadjiwan Kaandossiwin Gamik — beautiful place of learning — will mean more access and more connections in a space that supports pride and dignity."
Lucinda House was built in 1838 and donated to Laurier in 1994. The house has previously been used for special events and as a temporary residence for university guests.