Exchange District Biz has recognized Red River College’s contribution to the revitalization of the Exchange District with an Award of Excellence.

The Exchange District BIZ Awards of Excellence recognize community members who have made significant contributions to the vision of the Exchange District as Winnipeg’s prime heritage destination, cultural epicentre and premiere location for distinct and renowned dining and retail amenities.

Paterson GlobaFoods Institute (Located in the old Union Bank Tower) – Photo Credit: RRC

“We wish to thank the Exchange District BIZ for recognizing Red River College’s contribution to this historic neighbourhood,” said Stephanie Forsyth, President & CEO of Red River College. “Our institution is focused on fueling Manitoba’s economic growth and community development and this award reinforces the College’s strategic intent.”

“Red River College is a strong advocate for the Exchange District, continually encouraging development to take place in our expanding neighbourhood,” said Brian Timmerman, Executive Director, Exchange District BIZ. “RRC’s vision in converting the century old Union Bank Tower is not only exciting, but crucial to the success of the District.”

Located in Winnipeg’s historic Exchange District, the original Union Bank Tower was the city’s first skyscraper and the tallest steel building in the British Empire. It was designed in the Chicago school style by Darling and Pearson and built in 1906. The Annex was added in 1920. Before the College took ownership in 2009, it had been vacant for nearly 20 years and was in considerable disrepair.

The tower was renamed the Paterson GlobalFoods Institute. It opened in February this year, and the new facilities name is reflective of the partnership with the Paterson family and the Paterson Foundation. It is home to Red River College’s School of Hospitality and Culinary Arts and includes a 102-bed student residence.  As part of the restoration and re-development of the Tower, culinary labs were added on the site of the old Leland Hotel along with a new third floor that straddles the Annex. The rehabilitation project involved extensive restoration of the banking hall’s 28-foot ornate plaster ceilings, heritage columns and gilded details, as well as the hardwood and marble floors and marble panels throughout. Exterior terra cotta was repaired and replaced and historic window sash removed and refinished. The project also designed the building to meet sustainable goals targeting LEED Gold certification.

Earlier this month, at a special ceremony in France, representatives from Red River College signed an agreement making RRC the only Canadian partner to be inducted into the Institut Paul Bocuse Worldwide Alliance. This unique alliance covers 14 partners in 15 countries, all among the world’s top Hospitality Management & Culinary Arts schools. The agreement signals partnerships that provide countless benefits to staff, students, programming and the community.