September 21, 2004
New Residence Named for Local Business Leader
by Charles Crosby
Dalhousie University unveiled its brand new 490-bed residence, Risley Hall, at a reception Tuesday, September 14th. The residence, named for John Risley O.C., President of Clearwater Fine Foods Inc., will feature co-ed accommodation in 490 single rooms and, as is the case with all of DalhousieÂ’s dormitory style residences, will be dedicated mainly to first year undergraduates. Services in this building will include DalCard access throughout, a dining hall, lounge space and laundry facilities on every floor, accessible rooms with adjoining bath for special needs students, ample storage areas, and each student will have a phone with voice mail features, satellite TV access and ResNet (internet access).
The reception, held in the courtyard of the new residence was well attended by people from all across the Dalhousie community including staff, faculty, donors and a large number of students, including many who will be living in the building that bears Mr. Risley's name. The students presented Mr. Risley with a residence t-shirt and a framed photo of the building before the crowd embarked on tours to see the new, cutting edge residence for themselves.
"It was a great event," said Eric McKee, Dalhousie's Vice President of Student Services. "The students seemed delighted with the building in which they are now living and genuinely grateful to John Risley for his work on behalf of the University. His support will be well remembered as we all see his name every time we pass by the building."
"This new residence facility will serve to enhance student life at Dalhousie," added Dalhousie Student Union president Curtis MacGrath, who spoke at the event. "Without the generous contribution of members of the external community campus renewal would not be viable. We acknowledge the contributions by our supporters and appreciate their generosity."
The building is named in recognition of Mr. Risley for his long-time service, leadership and generous support to Dalhousie University. Mr. Risley is at the helm of one of CanadaÂ’s most successful and diversified privately owned companies in the seafood industry and has been an active leader in the voluntary sector. His efforts are helping to ensure that, at Dalhousie, students find an outstanding education and much more: like this new home.