Construction of New Homburg Centre for Health and Wellness Officially Underway

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Media Release - For Immediate Release

August 19 2010

Construction of New Homburg Centre for Health and Wellness Officially Underway

Dr. Richard Homburg looks on as the first section of pavement is cleared for the new Homburg Centre for Health and Wellness.

With a roar of an engine and the crash of a backhoe bucket against pavement, construction of the new $8 million Homburg Centre for Health and Wellness officially got underway at Saint Mary’s University today.

With University President Dr. J. Colin Dodds and Homburg Canada CEO Dr. Richard Homburg guiding levers, the pair broke up a section of pavement in a parking lot near the Tower where the new Centre will take shape beginning in October.

Designed as a multipurpose academic and athletic complex to inspire students, faculty, staff and the community to work toward healthier lifestyles, the Centre will feature wellness program space, studios, seminar rooms and community fitness/studio space.

It will also be the new home for the Centre for the Study of Sport and Health, a facility destined to attract international researchers interested in extending the University’s growing research competence in the area of sport and health.

The Homburg Centre for Health and Wellness will consist of a 20,250 square foot addition and 3,340 square foot renovation to University’s existing Tower athletic facility. The entire facility will be rebranded as the Homburg Centre for Health and Wellness.

“"It will be a showcase building for the university," said Dr. Dodds ."It's more than just a fitness centre; it's about holistic health and wellness. It puts us on the cutting edge of this research in Eastern Canada.”

It also acknowledges the leading role Saint Mary's University has taken in the study and execution of social health and medicine, and sport. A balanced and healthy lifestyle is a principal societal concern and the Homburg Centre will ensure that programs and facilities are in place to address the needs of our entire community, he said.

The Centre was the vision of Dr. Homburg, CEO of Homburg Inc., a real estate investment and development company with holdings and management offices in North America and Europe. Dr. Homburg believes healthier Nova Scotians are key to a more productive and economically prosperous future.

Dr. Homburg’s commitment was strengthened by a personal experience several years ago that left him paralyzed. He was only able to return to a busy life after participating in a rehabilitation program that focused on a healthy lifestyle.

Education Minister Marilyn More was on hand for the sod turning, as were several students who benefited from Dr. Homburg’s other commitment to the University: the Homburg International Mobility Awards, a program that has enabled 50 students to travel to 16 different countries around the world to pursue educational opportunities.

"Not only does a healthy lifestyle improve quality of life, it also leads to higher academic achievement for students," said Ms. More. "The programs, services and facilities offered at the Homburg Centre will add vitality and energy to the already vibrant Saint Mary's campus."

The cost of the facility is $8 million. Dr. Richard Homburg has committed $5 million for the project. BMO Financial Group, Manulife Financial and McInnes Cooper have also made leadership donations. The remainder has been raised by alumni and friends through donations to the University’s capital campaign.

Saint Mary’s University VP Academic Gabrielle Morrison said the Centre will enhance and celebrate all types of social health and wellness issues.

“This is not just about physical fitness. The programs and research delivered through the Centre will promote six areas of wellness: physical, emotional, occupational social, intellectual and spiritual.”

To watch Global Televison's coverage of the event, click here