Media Statement: On the release of the Alberta Government’s 2014 Budget

BANFF, AB, March 5, 2014 – The Alberta Government announced that it has allocated $70 million in support of The Peter Lougheed Leadership Initiative, $35 million of which will support the creation of the Peter Lougheed Leadership Institute at Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity.   

Statement from Brenda Mackie, Chair of Banff Centre Board of Governors: “We are thrilled with today’s announcement which clearly demonstrates the Alberta government’s support for this comprehensive vision for the Peter Lougheed Leadership Initiative at both the Banff Centre and the University of Alberta. We look forward to taking the next steps together with our partners in order to develop business and social leaders who will build a better world through collaboration, innovation and creativity.”  

Statement from Banff Centre President, Jeff Melanson: “This investment from the province provides the initial momentum necessary for The Banff Centre’s Peter Lougheed Leadership Institute to move forward with programs that will transform the definition of leadership. This $35 million dollars is instrumental in helping us assemble a significant endowment to sustain the programming of the Peter Lougheed Leadership Institute, and it also allows us to proceed with ongoing pilot programs for current and emerging leaders, including youth. At the Peter Lougheed Leadership Institute, participants will gain the skills and inspiration they need to act as agents of positive change within communities across Canada and around the world. More details about these pilot programs will be shared in the coming weeks.  The Banff Centre is grateful for the government’s substantial support. We look forward to working in the bright days ahead with the government and with our partners at The University of Alberta to create the world’s foremost leadership institute.”  

Statement from John Ferguson, Chair of the Advisory Board of the Peter Lougheed Leadership Initiative: “This is a great day for students of the University of Alberta and participants at The Banff Centre. We are grateful for this support and appreciate the Alberta government's investment and vision. Peter Loughheed was all about teamwork, and about what could be accomplished together – this partnership is a very fitting way to honour that spirit. As Chair of the Advisory Board, I look forward to advising both institutions as they collaborate to create joint programs for global leaders of all ages.”