Embark Helps Bring the ‘Grove’ to Life at the University of Lethbridge
Lethbridge, AB (May 20, 2026) – Construction is now underway on Phase 1 of the Grove — a vibrant new outdoor recreation and wellness space at the University of Lethbridge — made possible by a $500,000 grant from the Embark Student Foundation.
This milestone represents more than the start of construction. It reflects a shared commitment to supporting student well-being, connection and belonging through thoughtfully designed campus spaces.
Located at the heart of campus, the Grove is being transformed into an inclusive outdoor environment where students, staff and the broader community can gather, recharge and connect. Supported through the Embark Student Foundation Major Grant Program, the project is designed to create meaningful opportunities for students to build relationships and feel a stronger sense of belonging.
“At Embark, we’re honoured to be part of this special moment for the University of Lethbridge,” said Sarah Lyon, Chief Compliance Officer, who attended the groundbreaking on behalf of Embark. “As a Canadian organization founded in Alberta more than 60 years ago, we’ve always been committed to helping students succeed — not just financially, but in ways that support their overall experience and well-being.”
Sarah highlighted that the Embark Student Foundation Major Grant Program, launched in 2023, was created to support innovative, student-focused initiatives led by post-secondary institutions.
“We recognize that schools like ULethbridge have a deep understanding of what their students need,” she said. “What stood out in this proposal was the thoughtful, student-centered approach to fostering health and wellness at a time when connection matters more than ever.”
The Grove reflects that vision. Developed through student consultation, the space is designed to balance social interaction with opportunities for quiet reflection — addressing the growing need for connection in a post-pandemic world.
“This space holds so much promise to transform how students experience their post-secondary years,” Sarah added. “By bringing together ideas from students and experts, the Grove has the potential to become the campus’s ‘central park’ — a place for connection, community and everyday moments that matter.”
Grove Features
Phase 1
- Gateway — Vertical elements marking entrances and enhancing wayfinding
- The Gathering — An outdoor fireplace surrounded by natural landscaping
- Coulee Lookout Plaza — A central hub where campus pathways meet
- The Hangout — A communal seating area nestled among trees
Phase 2
- Coulee Lookout Structure — A sheltered pergola for gatherings
- Natural Amphitheatre — A stone-seated outdoor venue for events
- Hammock Zone — A flexible space for relaxation and informal connection
Guided by Indigenous principles of land stewardship, the Grove also reflects a commitment to sustainability, reciprocity and care for future generations. A symbolic planting of an Indigenous tree marked the beginning of construction and the University’s ongoing commitment to reconciliation.
Once complete, the Grove will serve as a lasting example of how intentional investments in campus spaces can enhance student life — fostering connection, well-being and a sense of belonging that extends far beyond graduation.
*The Embark Student Foundation Major Grant Program provides funding for innovative programs, initiatives or services that support student success before, during and beyond their post-secondary years. Through this grant program, Embark wishes to partner with post-secondary educational institutions in their efforts to advance access, agency and innovation that will empower students to take hold of their future.
Embark Student Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation and owner of Embark Student Corp., a proud Canadian resource for education savings and planning.
Celebrating the official start of the Grove construction on May 20, 2026, pictured left to right:
Dr. Mark Slomp, Executive Director, Student Services
Kathleen Massey, Vice Provost, Students
Sarah Lyon, Chief Compliance Office, Embark
Tom Little Bear, Indigenous Elder
Shelby Zuback, Lethbridge Public Interest Group