Laurentian University's McEwen School of Architecture hosted a handful of members of the Canadian Architecture Certification Board (CACB) on March 12 as it continues its push for accreditation.
Last year, the school received eligibility for CACB candidacy and are in the second stage of the second step in the accreditation process.
The CACB has administered the accreditation program since 1991. It is the sole organization recognized by the architectural profession in Canada to accredit professional degree programs in architecture offered by Canadian universities.
"The purpose for this evening is so that the (CACB) team can meet and mingle with the people in the community," said McEwen School of Architecture director David Fortin.
"Whether it's faculty involved in the program, whether you're hiring our students as part of our co-op program, whether you're community members, they're interested in knowing how the school is connected to the community."
Accreditation is based on conditions and terms for accreditation and the procedures for accreditation.
It typically requires a self-evaluation on the part of the institution, followed by a site visit and review conducted by a team representing the CACB, which is the stage that Laurentian was at this week.
"I want to thank everyone for such a warm welcome, it's been a spectacular visit, albeit a very busy three or four days," said Marc Boutin, a member of the CACB visiting team.
"We've met with students, support team, and the leadership from Laurentian University and we really want to thank all of you for your effort in being part of this process and building this school of architecture from the ground up. It's a challenging but enviable position to be in and the support we've seen from the community and the relationship between the school and the community should absolutely be applauded."
