Cambrian College Renames School of Business in Honour of the Douglas A. Smith Family Foundation

Sudbury – For years, the Douglas A. Smith Family Foundation has been a key supporter of Cambrian College, in particular its various business programs.

In recognition of this support, Cambrian has announced that its School of Business will now be known as the Douglas A. Smith Family School of Business.

The Douglas A. Smith Family School of Business honours the legacy of the Smith family, founders of Manitoulin Transport. Launched in 1960 by Douglas A. Smith, Manitoulin Transport began with a single license and has since grown into a global leader in transportation and logistics. The Smith family’s dedication to continuous improvement, strategic vision, and hard work has been instrumental in the company’s success.

“Our partnership with Cambrian College reflects our shared commitment to innovation and seizing opportunities,” says Jeff Smith, Vice-Chair of Manitoulin Transport and former Chair of Cambrian College’s Board of Governors. “It is with great pride that we extend our support to the Douglas A. Smith Family School of Business, championing its pioneering educational initiatives and nurturing the next generation of business leaders, who we also hope will follow in Manitoulin Transport’s entrepreneurial spirit, innovation and commitment to community so they too can leave an indelible mark on the business landscape.”

The support provided to Cambrian College from the Douglas A. Smith Family Foundation includes scholarships for students entering Cambrian’s new 3-year and 4-year Bachelor of Business Administration degree programs, as well as annual unrestricted funds allocated to the School of Business and Wabnode Centre for Indigenous Student Services to address pressing needs. The Douglas A. Smith Family Foundation also supports various events, clubs, and skill competitions tied to the School of Business and the School of Skills Training, Engineering and Environmental Studies under the Manitoulin Transport brand. This support aims to enhance opportunities for skill development through work-integrated learning.

While a company with international reach, the Manitoulin Transport Group remains deeply rooted in northern communities, emphasizing the importance of community investment. “We see a huge need for business professionals to create economic opportunities around the north and beyond,” adds Jeff  Smith. “We want graduates from the Douglas A. Smith Family School of Business to be leaders in their professions and communities.”

“The establishment of the Douglas A. Smith Family School of Business marks a significant moment in Cambrian College’s history and will have a huge impact on our business programs,” says Cambrian College President Kristine Morrissey. “This generous contribution will empower students to pursue their educational goals while strengthening our commitment to excellence in business education.”