June 21 marked the official naming and donor recognition event for the Odette School of Business’ new Dr. Mitchell W. Fields Data Analytics Lab.

Donations to fund the lab were matched by the family foundations of Edmond and Gloria Odette and Patricia and Louis Odette.

The space was named in honour of the outgoing dean of the business school, Mitchell Fields, who will complete his seven-year term as dean on June 30.

“Our vision was to create a lab that is among the best in all Canada, and I believe we have succeeded thanks to the support of our donors,” said Dr. Fields. “I was touched and humbled when I was informed that the Odette family arranged to put the lab in my name.”

Michael Kaye, grandson of Edmond and Gloria Odette, says Fields’ commitment and vision were critical to the creation of the lab.

“The fact that so many generous alumni and donors stepped up to support this initiative speaks volumes about Dr. Fields’ leadership and passion for ensuring that the Odette School of Business remains at the forefront of innovative learning and ensuring that our grads have the tools to excel in their chosen career paths," he said.

The lab houses 50 cutting-edge workstations, monitor systems with integrated cameras, microphones, and speakers, advanced teaching technologies, high-end processors, high-speed wiring, and industry leading software.

Lou Odette, son of Louis and Patricia Odette and president of the P & L Odette Charitable Foundation, says he is very pleased to see the success of the foundation’s matched contributions.

“The state-of-the-art teaching lab is a high impact addition to the business school’s facilities and provides an exceptional educational space for the students.”

Construction of the space was completed last year, and it has already seen use for research projects, outreach events, and providing teaching support for undergraduate and graduate students.

—Sienna Ducharme