PROCTOR—The College of St. Joseph has received a donation of two prominent buildings in Proctor from Omya North America, which has had offices in Proctor and a plant in nearby Florence.
Tony Colak, CEO of Omya Region Americas, stated, “We are excited that these buildings will be in use by the college and hopeful the donated buildings will greatly assist them in expanding their programs.”
CSJ President Rich Lloyd said the college will work to assess what programs will be a good fit for the former Omya lab and headquarters, with an immediate focus of enhancing CSJ’s new health sciences major. “Part of the planning is to make appropriate use of these historic buildings to serve both our students and the town of Proctor,” Lloyd said. “We are grateful Omya thought of us as they planned the future of the buildings.”
Lloyd said he is looking forward to further ongoing conversations with the town of Proctor as CSJ plans the best use for the buildings.
CSJ has spent the past few years examining how it could offer more health science opportunities to students, such as a physician’s assistant program, as part of its strategic planning. The college had previously explored options on its campus, but the donation from Omya comes as a great opportunity for the programs.
Jim Reddy, retired president of Omya North America and current chairman of the board of trustees of CSJ, said he was very proud that Omya is continuing its longstanding philanthropic corporate philosophy.
“These buildings have a rich historical legacy,” Lloyd said. “We’re honored that we have an opportunity to be part of the next chapter.”
