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David Fortin officially takes the reins at McEwen School of Architecture

Architecture school's founding director, Terrance Galvin, will continue to teach in Sudbury
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The McEwen School of Architecture's new director, David Fortin (right), is seen here with founding director Terrance Galvin (left) and Laurentian University interim president Pierre Zundel. (Supplied)

David Fortin began his duties as director of Laurentian University's McEwen School of Architecture this month.

He took over from the school’s founding director, Terrance Galvin, who successfully led the creation and development of the architecture school since its inauguration in 2012.

“It is truly an honour to have been chosen to lead our country’s newest architecture school,” said Fortin, in a press release.

“The unique vision for this school, one deeply grounded in celebrating place, culture, and community through design, has always inspired me as these are the principles that ground technological innovation and creativity towards a future we all want to live in.” 

A member of the Métis Nation of Ontario, Fortin is the first Indigenous director of a Canadian architecture school. He is also a Member of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (MRAIC) and a registered architect, having worked with various professional firms in Calgary. 

He has taught design, history, and theory in the U.K., U.S., and Canada, including study abroad courses in Kenya and South America, and currently teaches a class exploring the impact of climate change on design.  

Fortin currently focuses on Indigenous design in contemporary architecture and is co-curator for a team of Indigenous architects (UNCEDED) representing Canada at the world-renowned 2018 Venice Biennale competition in Italy.

“I feel privileged to lead a school that does what no other architecture school in Canada does,” said Fortin. 

“Our students learn through hands-on experience and direct community engagement. Furthermore, they are guided by Indigenous teachings and the highest level professional standards, to design buildings and communities in cold climates worldwide, by incorporating innovative uses of wood and developing appropriate sustainable strategies.”

"The McEwen School is rooted in Northern landscapes and Northern communities and our teachings have always been an important part of its curriculum," said Douglas Cardinal, world-renowned architect known for designing structures inspired by his Indigenous roots.

"Having a person such as David who has experience with both Indigenous and non-Indigenous perspectives can only result in a positive force towards reconciliation for future generations of architects."

Galvin will continue to teach and play an active role in the school’s future. Under Galvin’s leadership, the McEwen School of Architecture became the first new school of architecture to open in Canada in over 40 years, eventually moving into its award-winning building in downtown Sudbury, and attracting students and staff whose work has already received national and international acclaim.

The school also received a $10-million gift in support of its vision from philanthropists Rob and Cheryl McEwen. 

In addition to teaching the next generation of Canadian architects, Galvin continues to lead the school’s application for initial accreditation with the Canadian Architectural Certification Board.

“I want to thank Terrance for his outstanding work and leadership in building the McEwen School into the award-winning institution it is today,” said Pierre Zundel, interim president and vice-chancellor of Laurentian University. 

“I also want to congratulate David and wish him tremendous success as he takes on the challenge of guiding the McEwen School of Architecture to international acclaim.”