North Bay, ON – Today, Nipissing University celebrated the grand opening of its Outdoor Classroom, an innovative four-season learning and gathering space that brings education beyond traditional classroom walls. Designed to support academic, cultural, and community programming, the Outdoor Classroom will enrich learning, strengthen community connections, and deepen engagement with the natural environment.
“The Outdoor Classroom embraces our natural landscape while advancing the University's commitment to relational, experiential, and Indigenous land-based learning,” said Dr. Kevin Wamsley, President & Vice-Chancellor at Nipissing University. “We are grateful to all those who helped make this project possible and look forward to seeing this space bring people together to learn, gather, and connect year-round.”
Funded by the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC), the Nipissing University Alumni Advisory Board (NUAAB), and Nipissing University, the Outdoor Classroom will support a wide range of academic, cultural and community programming, providing opportunities for students to learn through experience, reflection, and engagement with the natural environment. 
“Our government is proud to invest in projects that strengthen both learning opportunities and community connections across the North. This first-of-its-kind outdoor classroom and event space at Nipissing University will provide a unique gathering place for academic learning, cultural exchange and public events, while enhancing the student experience and supporting North Bay’s continued growth and vibrancy,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth, Government of Ontario.
“We’re pleased that the Ontario government, through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation, invested $500,000 in Nipissing University's outdoor classroom. Having had the opportunity to visit this site, it’s clear that students will benefit from experiential learning in a serene space that engages their senses throughout the seasons that Northern Ontario offers and provides a venue for Indigenous land-based learning,” said Vic Fedeli, MPP, Nipissing.
Located on the east side of Monastery Road and surrounded by forest, the carefully selected location of the structure connects the classroom to nature and the land. Designed and constructed by North Bay firms Mitchell Jensen Architects and Venasse Building Group, the heavy timber structure features 13 distinct column and beam arrangements making every viewing angle of the classroom unique. The steel oculus at the top allows rain and snow to enter the structure, reconnecting its visitors to the natural environment while they learn and gather under the protection of the roof. The space also includes a propane fire table, with plans for a traditional outdoor fire pit to be constructed east of the entrance.
The Nipissing University Alumni Advisory Board contributed $100,000 to the project, recognizing the lasting impact the space would have on future generations of students.
“As alumni, we know how deeply campus experiences can shape a student's journey. We are proud to support a project that will create meaningful opportunities for learning, connection, and personal growth for generations of Nipissing students,” said Laurel Muldoon, President of the Nipissing University Alumni Advisory Board.
The Outdoor Classroom will soon be available for external community bookings through the University’s Campus Sales and Services team. For more information about bookings, contact meet@nipissingu.ca.
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(705) 474-3450 ext. 4035
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