George Brown College opened its doors on April 5 to a bustling crowd of over 7,900 prospective students and guests during its Spring Open House, offering a vibrant glimpse into college life across its three downtown Toronto campuses — Casa Loma, St. James, and Waterfront.
The event was a major draw for future students and their families, who came to explore academic programs, meet faculty and students, and experience the energy of campus life in the heart of Canada’s largest city.
Exploring Life at George Brown
Throughout the day, George Brown’s campuses came alive with activity. Guests were welcomed into classrooms, labs, and learning spaces that reflect the college’s hands-on, career-focused education model. Faculty and current students were on-site to engage with visitors, answer questions, and share their experiences.
“Our Spring Open House is all about opening our doors and creating meaningful, accessible connections with future students,” said Dr. Gervan Fearon, President of George Brown College. “The enthusiasm and turnout speak volumes about the strength of our programs and the supportive learning environment we’re proud to offer.”
Interactive experiences were a key highlight of the event. Guided campus tours, student panels, and program-specific showcases gave attendees an up-close look at the range of academic pathways available — from business and design to health sciences and trades.
Spotlight on Innovation
One of the standout attractions was at the Waterfront Campus, where visitors got a preview of Limberlost Place — George Brown’s striking new mass-timber building. Set to become the future home of the School of Architectural Studies and the Early Childhood Education Centre, Limberlost Place represents a bold step forward in sustainable campus design.
Removing Barriers to Education
To support accessibility and ease the application process, George Brown offered several helpful services during the event. On-site application support was available throughout the day, and guests had the chance to receive a voucher waiving the Ontario Colleges Application Service (OCAS) fee — a financial boost for many students.
“Helping students begin their educational journey without barriers is a priority for us,” said Janene Christiansen, Registrar and Associate Vice President of Strategic Enrollment. “By offering hands-on support and covering application fees, we’re removing obstacles and making college more attainable.”
A Celebration of Community
The day wasn’t just informative — it was also a celebration. Across all campuses, visitors enjoyed a festive atmosphere that reflected George Brown’s dynamic and inclusive culture. Helder the Husky, the college’s mascot, greeted guests, while students from the School of Design created live caricature drawings. The Toronto Raptors dancers added to the buzz, representing George Brown’s ongoing partnership with Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment (MLSE).
Student-created merchandise, including custom tote bags and treats crafted by the Chef School, proved to be popular takeaways, adding a personal touch to the experience.
Teamwork Behind the Scenes
Behind the scenes, more than 600 staff, faculty, and student volunteers came together to bring the event to life — a testament to the collaborative spirit that defines George Brown College.
Dr. Eileen De Courcy, Vice President Academic, emphasized the impact of that collaboration. “The Open House goes beyond information — it creates connection. Visitors don’t just learn about our programs, they get to feel the energy, meet the people, and see the spaces where they’ll thrive.”
Sumi Shanmuganathan, Associate Vice President of Marketing and Communications, echoed that sentiment. “Events like this give future students a glimpse into the creativity and passion that exists across our community. It’s these experiences that help them picture themselves as part of the George Brown family.”
With strong attendance and positive feedback, the 2025 Spring Open House has reaffirmed George Brown College’s place as a leading institution for career-focused, accessible post-secondary education in Toronto.
