Assiniboine Community College in Brandon celebrated the grand opening of its newest learning space, the Centre for Creative Media, Thursday evening.

The college welcomed community members, industry partners, project donors, alumni, students and staff.

“We are thrilled to showcase this new innovative space alongside our community and industry partners,” said Mark Frison, President at Assiniboine. “It’s an important space for the college and a big step in our continued growth. We are grateful to the many generous contributors to this project and the ongoing support we have received to continue to provide exceptional learning experiences for students.”

The Centre for Creative Media, located at the Victoria Avenue campus in Brandon, is a 10,050 sq. ft. multifunctional space that includes a classroom for students working on post-production alongside a dedicated screening area with a high-end projector and sound system.

Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) leads in building a strong, competitive Canadian economy by supporting innovation and economic development. That group donated $2.2 million in funding for the multi-million-dollar Centre for Creative Media.

“A dedicated creative space allows students to train on some of the most up-to-date technology in the industry,” said Jana Sproule, Chairperson of Media and Office Technology at Assiniboine. “It will provide students with the necessary skills and confidence to succeed in a fast-paced and evolving industry.”

In fall 2021, the college launched three new programs – Media & Communications, Digital Art & Design and Web & Interactive Development.

ACC tour

ACC instructor Mike Lamb (r) at Thursday's grand opening and tour

 

"I've been with this program for a long time. I took a version of the program and taught in the program and now I'm Chair and get to see this space come to life. It's not every day you get to see the new space and brand-new technology that allows for collaboration and for the community to come in and us it so we're pretty excited." said Jana Sproule.

These programs are the primary users of the new Centre and can welcome up to 60 students each year.

“Getting the chance to work and learn in the new state-of-the-art Centre for Creative Media space has been an amazing and fun experience,” said Nicole Wruth, Media & Communications Student at Assiniboine.

“It makes you feel like you are a part of something bigger, dreaming bigger and working harder. It feels like the real deal, and most importantly, your creativity isn't limited when you have great equipment and studio space at your fingertips. Your environment is everything.”