University of Winnipeg Campus and Development
Located directly on Portage Avenue in the heart of downtown Winnipeg, the University of Winnipeg campus spans several city blocks and comprises 23 buildings. Over the last decade, the university has transformed its physical landscape through more than 10 new construction and major renovation projects, positioning the institution as a primary engine for downtown renewal and urban improvement.
Key Facts
- Campus Size: 23 buildings located across several downtown blocks.
- Development Body: Managed by the University of Winnipeg Community Renewal Corporation (UWCRC).
- Historic Landmark: Wesley Hall, built in 1894–95, is listed on the Registry of Historic Places of Canada.
- Recent Growth: Over 10 major building projects completed in the last ten years.
- Student Housing: Includes McFeetors Hall and the 14-storey Downtown Commons.
Campus Facilities and Architecture
The campus blends modern academic hubs with historic architecture to serve a diverse student body and the wider community.
Academic and Administrative Hubs
The Rice Centre serves as the central hub for university administration and student services. For business and professional studies, the Buhler Centre opened in September 2010. Designed by the PSA+DPA+DIN collective (a collaboration between Peter Sampson Architecture Studio inc, David Penner Architect, and DIN Projects), it houses the Faculty of Business and Economics and the division of Professional, Applied and Continuing Education (PACE). Additionally, the Buhler Centre hosts Stella's Cafe and the Plug In Institute of Contemporary Art on its main floor.
Specialized arts and sciences are supported by the Asper Centre for Theatre and Film, which provides dedicated facilities for media and theatre studies, and the Richardson College for the Environment and Science Complex.
Student Life and Wellness
Student wellbeing is supported by the Axworthy Health & RecPlex, which opened in 2014 to provide a wide array of sport and recreation facilities. Other athletic spaces include the Duckworth Athletic Centre and the Bill Wedlake Fitness Centre.
Accommodation options include McFeetors Hall (the Great-West Life Student Residence), which was made possible through a $2.67 million donation from Raymond L. McFeetors, Chairman of The Great West Life Assurance Company. For those seeking off-campus style living, Downtown Commons on Colony Street is a 14-storey apartment complex providing housing for students and the general public.
Historic and Multi-use Spaces
Wesley Hall stands as a testament to the university's history. Built between 1894 and 1895, this stone-clad brick structure at 515 Portage Ave is recognized on the Registry of Historic Places of Canada. The Institute for Stained Glass in Canada has specifically documented the stained glass found within the university's convocation hall.
Other notable sites include Leatherdale Hall, a shared multi-use building primarily used by the collegiate, and the UWSA Daycare.
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Campus Development and Governance
The growth of the university is managed by the University of Winnipeg Community Renewal Corporation (UWCRC). This not-for-profit subsidiary oversees planning, construction, and redevelopment with a specific mandate to ensure environmental, social, economic, and cultural sustainability.
Governance Model
The UWCRC operates under a unique model for Canadian post-secondary institutions, functioning at arm's length from traditional university governance. The board is chaired by the university's president. Beyond internal campus projects, the UWCRC provides property management and real-estate development services to First Nations partners, non-profit organizations, and other post-secondary institutions.
Financial Structure
The UWCRC draws its operating funds from the university's budget. Notably, its financial statements are not subject to public disclosure legislation.
Campus Summary Table
| Facility | Primary Purpose | Notable Feature/Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Rice Centre | Administration & Student Services | Central administrative hub |
| Buhler Centre | Business, Economics & PACE | Opened Sept 2010; houses Plug In Institute |
| Wesley Hall | Historic Landmark | Built 1894–95; Registry of Historic Places |
| Axworthy Health & RecPlex | Sports & Recreation | Opened in 2014 |
| McFeetors Hall | Student Residence | Funded by Raymond L. McFeetors |
| Downtown Commons | Mixed-use Housing | 14-storey apartment complex |
| Asper Centre | Theatre & Film | Dedicated media studies facilities |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who manages the development of the University of Winnipeg campus?
Campus development is overseen by the University of Winnipeg Community Renewal Corporation (UWCRC), a not-for-profit subsidiary focused on sustainable redevelopment.
What is unique about the governance of the UWCRC?
The UWCRC operates at arm's length from traditional university governance structures, a model that is considered uncommon among Canadian post-secondary institutions.
Which building on campus is recognized as a historic site?
Wesley Hall, a stone-clad brick structure built in 1894–95, is listed on the Registry of Historic Places of Canada.
What facilities are available for students interested in theatre and film?
The Asper Centre for Theatre and Film provides the necessary facilities for students pursuing theatre and media studies.
Where can students find housing on or near campus?
Students can reside at McFeetors Hall (Great-West Life Student Residence) or the 14-storey Downtown Commons apartment complex on Colony Street.