Nipissing University building on success.

• Position: CORPORATE PROFILE

Nipissing University's value goes far beyond the academic degrees it offers. Besides establishing a path as an innovator in high-quality and affordable education, the institution is also a local economic driver and a big part of the record-setting pace of construction activity in the Gateway City in recent years.

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A 2008 study by Nipissing University economics professor Chris Sarlo estimated the direct economic impact of the institution in the community at $105 million; the indirect impact is, of course, much greater.

With a flurry of new construction now underway and in the queue, that figure has surely grown.

The impact of Nipissing is broadly based; it isn't just felt in North. Bay. New regional campuses have been established in Muskoka and Brantford as well. In Brantford, where the university is part of a downtown revitalization movement providing new learning environments in a former bank and a refurbished public utilities building.

"Over the last five years, the look and feel of Nipissing University has changed beyond our wildest dreams," said Vicky Paine-Mantha, vice-president of finance arid administration.

The university is careful, however, While undergoing change to continue to be a university that remains very much student-centred. This northeastern Ontario university has consistently received top grades from its students and graduates in the Globe and Mail's annual survey of Canadian universities.

"We build because there is a need to ensure we have the appropriate facilities to support the highest quality educational experience," said Paine-Mantha

Between 2005 and 2010, more than $81 million has been invested in the creation of more than 375,000 square feet of new space with two student residences, along with academic and administration buildings at: the main North Bay campus and the regional campuses in Muskoka and Brantford.

Nipissing also shares some common space with Canadore College. The two institutions have. enjoyed a unique sense of cooperation since both campuses opened side-by-side in North Bay in 1967.

The institutions share a gymnasium, cafeteria, bookstore and the new $25-million Harris Learning Library now under construction and slated for a grand opening in summer 2011.

At twice the size of the existing library, this facility offers a "whole new dimension" for students and researchers, promises Paine-Mantha, with unprecedented connectivity to the region, the satellite campuses and greater...