School that marked Canada's economic development is commemorated

Government of Canada recognizes the national historic significance of the founding of École des hautes études commerciales de Montréal

MONTREAL, Oct 4 /CNW Telbec/ - On behalf of the Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, the Honourable Leo Housakos, Senator, today unveiled a Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada plaque commemorating the national historic significance of the founding of École des hautes études commerciales de Montréal. The event was all the more significant as it was held on the anniversary of the school's opening day, October 4, 1910.

"I am proud to take part in recognizing the founding of École des hautes études commerciales de Montréal, which has enabled tens of thousands of graduates to contribute to building this country by defending the right to do business in French," said the Honourable Housakos. "Many students went on to become leaders in their field, and some attained international stature."

Established by the Government of Quebec in 1907, at the urging of the Chambre de commerce de Montréal, the business school contributed to French Canadians' rise to positions of influence in Canadian business. By training an intellectual elite focused on economic issues, it fostered the emergence of a distinctive interventionist school of thought. This approach, reflecting the reality and aspirations of French Canadians, played an instrumental role in Quebec economics after the Second World War. Prestigious and internationally renowned, HEC Montréal helped assure the economic vitality and cultural affirmation of Francophones within Canada.

"This institution's international reach is demonstrated both by its having obtained three of the most prestigious international accreditations in its field and by the international stature of its faculty members," said Minister Prentice. "This designation marks its importance and confirms its creation as a highlight in Canadian history."

Speaking on behalf of the HEC Montréal community, director Michel Patry said he was honoured by this significant gesture of recognition by the federal government. Looking back at the key points in the school's history, he stated, "In 1907, a handful of visionaries turned a dream into reality by creating HEC Montréal. Since then, its tradition of innovation has enabled it to rise to the ranks of the world's top management schools. And with HEC Montréal now showing the highest standards of excellence in all areas of activity, it remains guided by the ambition of continuing along this path with boldness, integrity and determination."

Parks Canada manages a nation-wide network of national historic sites that commemorates persons, places and events that have shaped Canada's history and which offer visitors the opportunity for real and inspiring discovery. Parks Canada works to ensure that Canada's historic and natural heritage is presented and protected for the enjoyment, education, appreciation and inspired discovery of all Canadians, today and in the future.

(Also available on the Internet at www.pc.gc.ca under Media Room.)

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