Fleming College and St. Lawrence College have announced plans to integrate as equal partners, launching a formal process aimed at creating a stronger, more resilient institution. The collaboration is designed to expand program access, enhance student services, and support long-term financial sustainability.
This milestone signals the beginning of a shared journey toward building a larger, more dynamic institution—one that is better equipped to meet the evolving needs of students and the regional workforce. By combining their strengths, the colleges aim to broaden academic pathways, increase access to specialized programs, and create more opportunities for research and hands-on, work-integrated learning.
Both institutions have been working alongside the provincial government to help ensure the transition is as seamless as possible, with minimal disruption to students and communities. At this stage, there are no planned changes to campus locations, programs, services, or student supports, and each college will maintain its local identity.
“This is an exciting step forward for our students and the communities we serve,” said Theresa Knott, Interim President of Fleming College. (seen in header photo) “By coming together, we can build on our collective strengths to offer more innovation, more access, and more opportunities for learners across our regions.”
Glenn Vollebregt, President and CEO of St. Lawrence College, (seen in header photo) emphasized the long-term benefits: “Our priority is ensuring students are equipped to thrive in a changing economy. This integration allows us to expand our reach, enhance our offerings, and create a stronger, more sustainable institution for the future.”
The boards of both colleges have approved a framework agreement outlining the path toward full integration, marking the official start of this process.
“As governors, we are committed to maintaining strong, relevant institutions that serve both students and communities well into the future,” said Don Gillespie, Board Chair at Fleming College. “This approach is about building capacity, protecting quality education, and opening doors for future growth.”
Julie Caffin, Chair of the St. Lawrence College Board of Governors, added, “This partnership positions us to better respond to the needs of students, employers, and communities across eastern Ontario, while strengthening our commitment to student success.”
As part of the transition, the newly integrated institution will operate under a single leadership team. Glenn Vollebregt will serve as the inaugural President and CEO, with Theresa Knott taking on the role of Associate President and Chief Academic Officer.
The next phase will focus on detailed planning, including due diligence, operational alignment, and engagement with communities and stakeholders. This work will be guided by both boards and aligned with provincial requirements, with updates shared as the process progresses.
Both colleges are committed to ensuring meaningful input from partners throughout the integration, creating opportunities for feedback and collaboration along the way.
For updates and more information, visit flemingcollege.ca/integration and stlawrencecollege.ca/integration.
About Fleming College
Fleming College respectfully acknowledges that we are situated on Michi Saagiig Anishinaabeg lands and territory. Located in the heart of Central Ontario, Fleming College has campus locations in Peterborough, Lindsay, Cobourg and Haliburton. Named for famous Canadian inventor and engineer Sir Sandford Fleming, the college features more than 85 full-time programs in Arts and Heritage, Business, Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences, General Arts and Sciences, Health and Wellness, Community Services, Skilled Trades and Technology, and Continuing Education. Fleming College has more than 8,500 full-time and 445 part-time students, and 95,000 alumni.
About St. Lawrence College
St. Lawrence College is situated on the traditional lands of the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee peoples; we are grateful to live and learn on these lands. With campuses in Kingston, Brockville, and Cornwall, SLC delivers education and training that meets the needs of community, industry, and employers. The College prepares students to succeed in the global economy through relevant, practical programs and experiential learning opportunities. SLC programs include diplomas, degrees, graduate certificates, apprenticeships, micro-credentials and life-long learning opportunities. Everyone belongs in the SLC community with more than 135,000 alumni in 75 countries around the world.
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