Canadore College has officially named its multi-use indoor recreation facility the Burton Sports Dome, recognizing former President and CEO George Burton's longstanding dedication to the College as a former student, alumnus, president and community builder.
The new name was unveiled during a ceremony at Canadore's Commerce Court Campus on Saturday.
Burton's relationship with Canadore began as a student and continued throughout his career as an alumnus, advocate and leader. He served as the College's President and CEO from 2010 until January 2026, championing projects and partnerships intended to strengthen Canadore's connection to the communities it serves.
"The Burton Sports Dome recognizes George's lifelong connection and dedication to Canadore," said Jim Bruce, Chair of Canadore College's Board of Governors. "He experienced the College first as a student, remained connected as a proud alumnus and later devoted 16 years to leading the institution. Throughout that journey, George remained committed to building opportunities for students and strengthening the community around Canadore."
The Sports Dome was among the major community-focused projects advanced during Burton's presidency. He championed the facility from its early planning through construction and opening, helping transform a long-identified regional need into a year-round space for students, athletes, families and community organizations.
Opened in September 2024, the 85,000-square-foot facility was designed in consultation with community user groups to address the region's long-standing need for covered turf and hard-court surfaces. It includes a full-sized FIFA-regulation soccer field, two multi-purpose courts, a high-performance training area and a paved walking track. An attached 6,200-square-foot clubhouse provides change rooms and instructional and meeting space.
"George understood that Canadore's success is closely connected to the strength and well-being of the communities we serve," said Dr. Sandra Efu, President and CEO of Canadore College. "The Burton Sports Dome reflects that belief. It is a place where students learn and compete, young athletes develop their skills, community organizations expand their programming, and people from across the region come together."
Since opening, the Sports Dome has supported Canadore academic, varsity and recreational programming while providing year-round space for community soccer, baseball, volleyball, football, pickleball and other activities. It is also home to the Panthers Sports Academy, which provides expert-led strength and conditioning programs for local athletes.
Burton's contributions as a community builder extended beyond the physical development of the facility. The Sports Dome was envisioned as a shared regional asset that would expand recreation opportunities, support healthier communities and strengthen North Bay's ability to host tournaments, training camps and major events throughout the year.
"I am deeply honoured by this recognition," said Burton. "Canadore has been an important part of my life since I first arrived as a student. The Sports Dome was a shared effort shaped by employees, students, community sport organizations and partners who understood what year-round recreational space could mean for our region. Seeing the facility active and serving the community is the most meaningful recognition of all."
The Burton Sports Dome will continue to operate as a community recreation hub, supporting public bookings, local sport organizations, tournaments, training programs and community events alongside Canadore's academic and athletics programming.
For more information
100 College Drive, P.O. Box 5001
North Bay Ontario
Canada P1B 8K9
www.canadorecollege.ca
