George Brown College campuses and facilities are located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples who have lived on this land.

In 1951 the Ontario Government opened the Provincial Institute of Trades with the goal of providing skilled training to soldiers returning from World War 2. Seventeen years later, as the province established a new college system; the Institute was expanded to encompass a broader range of programs, opening as George Brown College in 1967.

Over time, George Brown College has evolved to support the labour needs of a variety of key economic sectors, and beyond pure skills training to offer a broad range of learning opportunities, including soft skills development, extensive field education and applied research.

Since 2004, under current President Anne Sado’s leadership, George Brown has more than doubled in size, broadened its international partnerships and increased its commitment to strengthening the cultural, social and economic fabric of Toronto.

The staff, faculty and administration of George Brown College are united by a set of shared values and objectives. Outlined below, these vision and mission statements help guide George Brown College as they grow and change to meet the needs of students and employers. 

The Path to Leadership

Inspired by a commitment to achievement through excellence in teaching, applied learning and innovation:

• They will set the benchmark to which all colleges will aspire, and be recognized as a key resource in shaping the future of Toronto as a leading global city.
• They will build a seamless bridge between learners and employment as they develop dynamic programs, and workplace-ready graduates who will be the candidates of choice for employers.
• They will create a community of life-long learners, grounded in the principles of access, diversity, mutual respect and accountability.