News Archives: Roadway named for first GPRC President
Tuesday, November 29th, 2011
November 29, 2011 Roadway named for First GPRC President Over 80 guests at a donor recognition event yesterday witnessed the unveiling of a new street sign at GPRC: Henry Anderson Drive. Dr. Henry Anderson was the first President of GPRC, and his name had earlier been honoured through the student residence, Anderson Hall. “When Anderson Hall was scheduled for demolition, our Alumni/Foundation Board of Directors began deliberations about an appropriate and enduring recognition,” says Don Gnatiuk, GPRC President and CEO. “The naming of Henry Anderson Drive provides a highly visible and long-lasting opportunity to honour the memory of someone whose name will always be synonymous with post-secondary education in our region.” The campus roadway commonly referred to as the "College ring road" will soon be marked with the signage which will identify it as Henry Anderson Drive., Son Norm Anderson and family travelled from Calgary to join the celebrations of their father and grandfather, and to participate in the unveiling. Lauren (15), Erik (13) and Alida (12) Anderson revealed the road sign to the enthusiastic applause of assembled guests. This is the first trip back to Grande Prairie for Anderson in several decades. “I grew up here as part of the College community,” he told the audience, “but after I graduated and went on to university, my family also left here, so I did not often come back.” The family expressed their appreciation of the honour accorded Dr. Anderson. Dr. Henry Anderson served as President of Grande Prairie Regional College from 1966 o1981, and guided the institution through its formative years, leaving a strong legacy of commitment to the value of higher education. -30-