New Accommodation Test Centre opens at the U of R
In memory of Hornung
Brad Hornung was one of the first students at the University of Regina to receive extensive accommodations in the early 90s. Now, a new Accommodation Test Centre is being named after him.
On November 4, the ribbon was cut to officially open the new Brad Hornung Accommodation Test Centre at the University of Regina. The event was attended by Hornung’s family. Hornung passed away in February this year after a battle with cancer at 52.
Hornung’s sister, Leanne Wright, said they felt the need to do something with the remainder of funds from the Brad Hornung Foundation.
“Considering this money was provided to Brad by the wonderful people of Regina and Saskatchewan – and considering both Brad’s educational journey and love of athletics – we thought a perfect fit would be to establish some things that would continue Brad’s legacy at the University of Regina,” said Wright in a University of Regina press release.
The Accommodation Test Centre is tucked into a hallway near the University of Regina Bookstore in College West.
Hornung was an up-and-coming WHL hockey player for the Regina Pats who had good odds of going pro. But in 1987, he suffered a spinal cord injury in a game against team rivals, the Moose Jaw Warriors. The spinal cord injury left him a quadriplegic.
Hornung’s number 8 jersey is currently retired by the Regina Pats organization. Hornung’s former coach, Doug Sauter, reflected on Brad after his death in February.
“His attitude was always outstanding,” said Sauter to 980 CJME. “His character was top notch and his enthusiasm for life and improving himself was great. […] Unfortunately, [Hornung] passing away last night will I think leave a large hole in the community as far as a role model goes.”
The Accommodation Test Centre’s goal is consistency. The goal for students who need extra accommodations to be able to stay on campus and receive the help they need instead of having to seek help somewhere else. This centre will provide equal access for students to complete their work and help them in their academic pursuits. There are 58 workstations, 11 private exam rooms, and 11 shared exam rooms. These stations and exam rooms are all equipped with dual monitors, and readers and scribes.
Hornung holds two degrees from the University of Regina. In 1996, he graduated from Campion College with a Bachelor of Arts in History. In 2018, he was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree for his courage and perseverance.
Hornung shared an interest in creating a more accessible space for other students who came after him, according to President of the University of Regina Jeff Keshen.
“Brad was clearly passionate about creating a more accessible campus for the students who came after him,” said Keshen in a press release. “The establishment of the Brad Hornung Accommodations Test Centre is not just a testament to those efforts – it’s our commitment to continue them.”
In addition to the new centre, the Hornung family and the Brad Hornung Legacy Foundation will be supporting accessible fitness equipment and two scholarships for the University of Regina Cougars hockey team. A scholarship at a value of $1,500 will go to one player from the women’s and men’s teams.
