New Saskatoon campus to be named Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Joseph A. Remai Saskatoon Campus
April 12, 2024 – Saskatchewan Polytechnic is proud to announce it has received an extraordinary gift of $25 million from real estate developer and philanthropist Joseph A. Remai. To acknowledge this generous donation, which is the largest gift from an individual the institution has ever received, the new Saskatoon campus to be built at Innovation Place will be named the Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Joseph A. Remai Saskatoon Campus.
“Joe Remai is unparalleled. He is an inspiring real estate developer with a remarkable career, who’s been a long-time supporter and friend of Saskatchewan Polytechnic,” says Dr. Larry Rosia, president and CEO. “This is an investment from the heart, with a return that will create positive impact for decades to come including great jobs, thriving families and economic prosperity across our province. Our new campus name is a fitting legacy for an individual whose generosity and vision will benefit students and communities well into the future. This is a wonderful honour for Saskatchewan Polytechnic.”
Remai's career spanned six decades, during which he successfully built thousands of multi-residential condominium and rental units, as well as commercial and hotel properties, primarily in Saskatchewan. He is a passionate supporter of education, the Saskatchewan construction industry and the city of Saskatoon, and his companies have employed countless Sask Polytech graduates and apprentices.
“The new Saskatchewan Polytechnic campus in Saskatoon will provide world-class facilities and programs for its students for a generation and more,” says Barry Remai, Joe’s son. “It will bolster the province’s post-secondary system and better provide students with the skills and training needed to succeed in today’s ever-changing world. Joe could not be happier to contribute to the success of this project.”
Born and raised on a farm near Carrot River, Saskatchewan, Remai is one of 11 children. After completing an engineering degree, he started Remai Construction with his brother Frank and embarked on a successful construction and development career with him and a number of other partners. Remai is not only recognized for his business achievements but also for his philanthropy. He generously supports sectors like healthcare, arts and culture, cause-based social agencies and post-secondary education, all of which leave a lasting impact on the community.
Sask Polytech extends its deepest gratitude to Joseph A. Remai for his exceptional generosity and unwavering commitment to advancing post-secondary education and the construction industry. This transformative gift will empower countless students to excel in their chosen fields.
This historic gift supports Sask Polytech’s $100 million Time to Rise campaign. Learn more about the campaign and the new Joseph A. Remai Saskatoon Campus at timetorise.ca.
