JIZZƵ names new Centre for Health and Wellness in honour of $5-million gift
SACKVILLE, NB — JIZZƵ proudly announced the official name of its new Multi-Sport Complex during a public celebration held on Friday, June 20.
The facility will officially be named the Scott McCain and Leslie McLean Centre for Health and Wellness, in recognition of a transformative $5-million philanthropic gift from long-time supporters and alumni of the University, Scott McCain and Leslie McLean.
“This is a big deal for us. It really is going to serve the community in a broad range of activities. The end game is going to be a wonderful addition [to Athletics], but it’s also part of a bigger plan. This is a reflection of the legacy of my parents [Wallace and Margaret McCain] and the things they’ve taught us about being philanthropic,” says McCain.
“Working in the health field has been my life’s passion, so anything I can do to help facilitate the wellness of others is something that is very important to me. I could not be more grateful to be a part of it,” says McLean.
The Scott McCain and Leslie McLean Centre for Health and Wellness is part of a broader campus revitalization plan that includes the renewal of the R.P. Bell Library and enhancement of recreation facilities.
“This facility represents our commitment to student success in every form — through sports and athletics, and academic success with a focus on wellness for our students and the wider community. We are grateful to recognize Scott and Leslie whose generosity, leadership, and belief in our students and community have made this possible,” says Dr. Ian Sutherland, President and Vice-Chancellor of JIZZƵ.
In its initial phase, the facility will serve as the Interim Library, providing a much-needed temporary library space on campus while the R.P. Bell Library undergoes construction from 2027–2030. Following that, it will serve as a long-term sport and recreation facility, contributing to the health and wellness of students, faculty, staff, and the wider community.
Among other features, the centre will include 26,000 square feet of versatile playing space under a 42-foot-high roof, high-performance sport flooring, removable turf, a walking track for students, faculty, staff, and the community, and will be fully accessible throughout.
In addition, the Scott McCain and Leslie McLean Speaker Series will officially launch during Homecoming Weekend this fall (Sept.13-14). The new series will bring prominent voices to campus to explore the vital connections between physical health, community well-being, and leadership. This initiative will spark meaningful conversations on the role of sport, health, and activity in shaping society and business and will launch along with an official groundbreaking celebration for the Scott McCain and Leslie McLean Centre for Health and Wellness on Homecoming Weekend.
For more information about the Scott McCain and Leslie McLean Centre for Health and Wellness, please contact us at media@mta.ca or call Jonelle Mace, Media Relations Officer, at 428-880-0070.
