Shaw Centre
The Shaw Science and Technology Centre was made possible by the extraordinary generosity of the Shaw family of Calgary, a family renowned for its philanthropy in Canada. The building was opened at a ceremony in 1999 with speeches and unveiling of the plaque by Jim Shaw ’77 (Lonsdale’s) and his father, JR Shaw, founder of Shaw Communications.
The construction of this facility, overlooking the Lake Omar pond, launched a renewal in the academic facilities on campus. All the science teachers at the time had input into the planning of their ideal science teaching environment. It contained six classrooms, each with a dedicated laboratory for physics, chemistry, and biology, along with the Grade 10 Science program. It also included a 100-seat lecture theatre and a dramatic entrance and mezzanine. Eventually, the lecture theatre was renovated into two more classrooms so that Grade 8 and 9 Sciences could also be held in the Shaw Centre.
Stephen Lane, Head of Science when the Shaw Centre was built, expressed the excitement at the time of its opening, saying "The Shaw Centre will help us prepare the scientists that will be necessary in the 21st Century." The sentiment still holds true. Nigel Mayes ’89 (Ripley’s), who has been teaching science in the Shaw Centre since 2001, celebrates the Shaw Centre today as a “hub of experiential learning, linking the Hatchery, Growing Dome, Living Lab, Observatory, and endeavours such as the Japan Super Science Fair – all of which contribute to an enriching science experience at Shawnigan.”
The information presented in this write-up is based on current information available in the School's Archives and consultation with key people who have some relevant connection to this "object." If you have further information about this "object" that you would like to contribute, please contact the School’s Advancement Office at alumni@shawnigan.ca.
We acknowledge with respect the Coast Salish Peoples on whose traditional lands and waterways we live, learn and play. We are grateful for the opportunity to share in this beautiful region, and we aspire to healthy and respectful relationships with those who have lived on and cared for these lands for millennia.
Shawnigan Lake School is an independent co-educational boarding school for ages 13 –18 on Canada’s beautiful West Coast. Our diverse, interdisciplinary and innovative programming helps shape the next generation of global leaders.
