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West Kelowna  

College gets a big gift

Okanagan College received its largest single donation in its 50 years of operation, Tuesday.

The Swanberg family donated a British Aerospace Model Jetstream 31, valued at almost $700,000.

“This gift will enrich the training experience for our students for years to come,” Okanagan College president Jim Hamilton said in a statement. “On behalf of Okanagan College, I want to express our sincere gratitude to the Swanberg family for this support.” 

The Jetstreaam will be used by students enrolled in the college’s aircraft maintenance engineering program, and will give student’s an opportunity to work on a real plane.

“We know we are facing a shortage of aircraft mechanics,” said Hamilton. “Support like this gift plays an integral role in Okanagan College’s efforts to train the skilled workers our province and country needs.”

The donation was made in memory of Sylvan and Dorothy Swanberg. Sylvan founded Swanberg Air in Grande Prairie, Alta., in 2000. He died in April 2011, and his wife Dorothy passed a year later.

“We hope that link resonates with the students,” said Loren Swanberg, the couple's son. “These donations are meant to celebrate and carry on my parents’ strong belief in higher education and lifelong learning.”

The family has donated three other aircraft to post-secondary institutions in Canada in the past. 



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