MUN receives $800,000 donation for Labrador campus from RBC Foundation
In an era of climate change and growing concerns about food security, Memorial University has received an $800,000 donation from RBC Foundation to strengthen agricultural research, education and community programming at its Labrador Campus.
The donation will support the Pye Centre, an 80-acre farm acquired by Memorial in 2019 as part of the university’s commitment to agricultural research and education in the province. Through this funding, the centre will expand programs that build community, drive research and create educational opportunities while contributing to food security and food sovereignty in Labrador.
“Memorial University has a special relationship with the northern communities of our province, and that relationship is embodied in the Pye Centre,” said Janet Morrison, president and vice-chancellor of Memorial University. “As a key feature of the Labrador Campus, the centre is built on collaboration, bringing local knowledge and academic practice together to co-create opportunities for students while addressing community needs and taking on the challenges of northern food production.”
The Pye Centre is an innovative model for research and education in northern-focused food systems. Envisioned as a community-led hub supporting innovation in food production and distribution, the centre works in partnership with local farmers, Indigenous organizations, federal and provincial governments, students and researchers to respond to food security and food sovereignty priorities across Labrador.
“Grenfell and Labrador campuses lead the way in agricultural research on the island and in Labrador,” said Dr. Ken Jacobsen, interim deputy provost (Grenfell and Labrador campuses). “Our researchers and academic programs are rooted in sustainable, community-based research focused on the critical issues of food security and innovation, while recognizing the traditional ways of feeding our populations. We are excited that this important work is being supported and the opportunity the Pye Centre fosters for collaboration.”