The Assiniboine Effect - Summer 2021 Edition

The Assiniboine

EFFECT Summer 2021

NEW CENTRE FOR CREATIVE MEDIA We unveil plans for world class Centre for Creative Media in Brandon.

THE BAHAMAS TO BRANDON Brieth Young-Taylor shares her extraordinary journey and passion for learning.

PRACTICAL NURSING EXPANDS Additional seats and a new permanent location in Portage La Prairie to start Fall 2022

Spring 2021

CONTENTS 3 A Message from the President

Mark Frison shares his thoughts on the road ahead

4 Supporting Women in Ag

Sarah Ramsey discusses the rise of females entering the workforce in agriculture

14 Practical Nursing Program Expands Additional seats and a new permanent delivery site in Portage La Prairie

16 Three New Office Programs for Parkland Campus

New business programs unveiled for this fall at our Parkland campus

16 Tuition-Free Welding Program Renewed Partnership with Conestoga to offer tution-free welding is renewed for another year

19 Student Spotlight

Weiming Tang shares his incredible journey to Assiniboine and his success entering the workforce

6 Catch up with Scott Carnegie

Learn about Scott’s exciting media career over the last two decades

7 Let’s Talk Mental Health

A new grant will support student metal health and well-being

8 Meet Assiniboine Alum Jamie Kucey

Find out how this Jamie is raising awareness of the importance of Manitoban trees and their connection to community

10 Student Spotlight: Brieth Young-Taylor

20 One to Watch Awards Announced

12 Centre for Creative Media Plans Unveiled

23 Finding the Sweet Spot

Share in Brieth’s journey from the Bahamas to Brandon with her family

Renovations are underway at the Victoria Avenue East campus for the new Centre for Creative Media

Our 2020-21 One To Watch award recipients have been announced

Dr. Sajjad Rao receives multi-year sweet potato research project funding

24 Cougars prepare for 2021-22 Season

As the 2020-21 season wraps up, look to the future with our Cougars Athletic teams

26 Flip back to the 90’s

We celebrate our 60th Birthday with a trip down memory lane

Cover photo: Brieth Young -Taylor, student in the Business Administration program at the Victoria Avenue East campus. Photo credit Shaun Cameron (page 10).

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A MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT

n o s i r F k r a M

What a long, strange trip it’s been. Well, it’s felt a lot longer than it’s probably been. And while it’s far from over, it does feel like we are turning the corner.

Trying to reflect on the past year is difficult, not just emotionally, but practically. Even for our own institution, it feels like it is a series of five or more parts. From the original response last spring to helping students complete their programs as campuses substantially closed, the summer path back to reopening, a different fall, the plunge into Code Red and now hopefully a pathway out of this pandemic through vaccination uptake. A return to more traditional social interaction is in our future.

Our journey at Assiniboine has been different than many institutions. Larger institutions with more theoretical programs had few options other than to have substantial remote delivery. For us, many applied hands-on programs did not lend themselves to remote delivery. With Food Processing, for example, it’s hard to mail a student a side of beef and tell them to mail you back the steaks. While there is a lot to lament, there is also so much to be proud of.

One of the things at the top of my list is that our institution was able to help almost all students last year complete their studies on time. Very few colleges in the country were able to do so—many having to bring students back in summer and fall to complete the previous year’s studies. For me,

Below: An A.C.C.T.V student production crew from the 1970's which produced weekly television shows from the on-campus studio.

it is also important not to romanticize this past academic year. It wasn’t the experience I’d want someone to have at Assiniboine.

persistence our graduates have shown over the past year or two I feel for them having to wait until fall to mark this occasion with us.

For the second consecutive spring we have had to make the decision to postpone spring graduation ceremonies. This year, as it was last year, the public health orders made it a relatively straight-forward decision. That said, it doesn’t feel like any less of a gut punch. Many institutions across the country last year, and even this year, opted for virtual ceremonies. We decided to make a different choice and pushed in-person ceremonies to fall. Despite pandemic-related factors we will still expect to have about 1,305 graduates in 2020-21. A rapidly scrolling name didn’t seem to do justice to the accomplishment of the graduates, especially those who muscled though a pandemic to complete their studies.

Graduates this year join more than 49, 000 alumni worldwide, many who are on the frontline ­— particularly healthcare, technical, hospitality and skilled trades.

We also have the advantage that such a large portion of grads tend to live and work in Manitoba after graduation. In fact, 89 per cent of graduates choose to live and work here after completing their programs. We are particularly proud of this as only 85 per cent are living in Manitoba prior to taking the program. That kind of net population and brain gain is good for Manitoba. Given the effort and

Mark Frison President Assiniboine Community College

Please join with me in expressing congratulations to the many graduates from Assiniboine and other colleges and universities this spring. We look forward to these graduates beginning and continuing their careers here in Manitoba.

LEAVE YOUR MARK Are you an Assiniboine creative media alum? If you studied a creative media program, whether during the Broadcast Arts, Web Design, Media Production or IMA generation, we have news!

A new Centre for Creative Media is currently under construction and scheduled to open and welcome the first cohort of students in Media & Communications, Digital Art & Design and Web & Interactive Development in fall 2021.

The new Centre will require new equipment and upgrades to best serve the next generation of creative minds. So, we’re looking to those most impacted by previous iterations of creative media programming to help build an experience for the future generations.

We are looking for alumni who have been part of our creative media journey to help bring the new Centre for Creative Media to life.

Check out assiniboine.net/leaveyourmark to find out how to get involved.

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Above: Horticultural Production and Sustainable Food Systems students Katherine Sarah Maria (left) and Tiffany Angelina Nykolyshyn (right) inside the Sustainable Greenhouse located at the North Hill campus during a previous academic year.

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SUPPORTING IN AG

Women

“When I first started my career in agriculture after graduating from Assiniboine in 2007, there really wasn’t a lot of females in this field,” says Sarah Ramsey.

“Now, when I look around it amazes me how many females are working in this field.”

Ramsey is an Assiniboine alum who has been employed with Cargill for more than 10 years in various roles, currently as a Grain Marketing Advisor. Cargill has recently committed to sponsoring a $3,000 entrance award for a female student entering the Agribusiness program.

“Women bring a unique perspective to agriculture so the more females we can get into ag the better it will be for companies, farmers, ranchers and ultimately the world,” said Ramsey.

Danielle Tichit, a faculty member at Assiniboine, has seen firsthand through her experience working in agriculture and teaching the ag industry’s next generation, the benefit of including and encouraging females in the industry.

“I think women have always played a critical role in the agriculture industry. Growing up I watched my mom work side-by-side with my dad as a partner on our farm while also having a full time off-farm career,” said Tichit.

“Over the last 20 years, women have made substantial strides in the financial, research and retail sectors. I hope in the future we will see more women in top management, influencing farm policy and owning their own farming operations.”

Tichit grew up on a mixed farm in Southwestern Manitoba. This experience led her to a career in agriculture. Ramsey was much the same, growing up on a farm with agriculture as a major part of her life, which grew her passion for the industry. While this is often the case, Tichit hopes an award like the Cargill Scholarship will bring more women into the industry.

“I hope an award like this encourages women from all walks of life, not just those who grew up in and around the industry to consider a future in agriculture. There is so much opportunity here,” said Tichit.

While this pointed support of female agriculture students is new for the 2021/22 academic year, Cargill’s support for Assiniboine students is anything but—the relationship is longstanding and has proved beneficial to both parties.

“Assiniboine has a strong history of producing industry ready talent. There is no greater example than the Agribusiness program. Hiring and further developing top end talent has long been the goal of Cargill. Collaborating with the college to continue to provide this educational opportunity is key to our mutual success,” said Wayne Kirk, a Crop Input Retail Manager at Cargill, who is also an Assiniboine alumnus and current President of the college’s Alumni Association.

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“Cargill recently reviewed how to increase the student impact of our investment. With that we arrived at increasing awareness and opportunity for females in ag.”

As a female working in the male-dominated agriculture industry, Ramsey has been proud to work for Cargill through the majority of her career.

“It makes me feel proud, supported and excited to be working for a company that is supporting females in agriculture,” said Ramsey. “I have three daughters who all express interest in the agricultural field, so if I can contribute even a little to any stigma around women in ag, I will. I am passionate about this topic, and an active member on the Cargill Women’s Network North America chapter, to help support the development of women in this field and others.”

Encouraging women to pursue careers in agriculture is good for the industry, and Kirk says Cargill knows it’s good for their future.

“Cargill has an endless search for elite talent and feel that supporting the educational journey of women in agriculture will provide an increased talent pool.

Cargill is the home of many female Assiniboine grads that are doing extraordinary work and we want to increase awareness of the opportunities that exist in the ag sector.”

Lifelong learning accompanies anyone working in agriculture.

Above: Agribusiness graduate Sarah Ramsey has been employed by Cargill for the past ten years.

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Right: Alumnus Scott Carnegie graduated from Media Production in 2000

NATIONAL INDIGENOUS HISTORY MONTH This June, we honour National Indigenous History Month by acknowledging history and current events, while recognizing the heritage and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples in Canada.

Our relationships with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples and Indigenous-owned and operated organizations are based on respect, trust, communication and recognition for reconciliation.

We are committed to working with our partners toward the achievement of the recommendations presented in the Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Report.

Meet Assiniboine Alumnus

SCOTT CARNEGIE

Media Production (‘00)

What career path did you choose?

I run a media production company, Sugar Cube Entertainment. I make the creative decisions for projects. Depending on the budget and scope of a project I might fulfill several roles: the producer, writer, director, cinematographer, editor or photographer.

Other times I hire crew to fulfill these roles.

Did you take additional steps to get you where you are today?

One of the best things about working in the media industry is the large variety of experiences and situations you find yourself in. I spent 13 years at APTN as an editor/ producer and then branched out to work in the freelance television production world as an editor/videographer for a few years before I started Sugar Cube Entertainment.

I have worked on innumerable projects with many great people that I have learned from, collaborated with, been hired by, etc. I still take training through different organizations like Film Training Manitoba and On Screen Manitoba to keep current with technology and processes.

Do you have a career ‘highlight’ that you’re most proud of?

I’ve been a life-long Pro-Wrestling fan and a few years ago I went on the road to shoot a documentary for the CBC. I got to follow a pro-wrestling company during their Western Canadian tour, which included spending time with and interviewing the legendary Jake “The Snake” Roberts. I don’t get star struck very often, but I had a moment when we sat down to interview him that I said to myself “I’m making a documentary about pro wrestling… for CBC… this is definitely a career highlight!”

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What first attracted you to the program that you took at Assiniboine?

The things that attracted me to Assiniboine were several; I wanted to live in Brandon since I had many friends and relatives there that I could turn to for support; the program was accessible price wise and a two-year program was appealing over a longer course.

The program covered a large variety of skills and since I wasn’t really sure of the area I wanted to go into I liked the idea of getting a wide variety of skills and then specializing later on.

What was your most important experience at Assiniboine?

My most important experience was having the freedom to explore creativity in various ways, and that it really was up to the student to make it happen. A student could stick to the curriculum and get by or they could push themselves to excel and take advantage of the facilities and resources at their disposal.

I created and co-hosted a noon-hour radio show with another student that is still a radio DJ in Vancouver all these years later. I co-produced a multi-camera taping for the Brandon Jazz Festival. I wrote and recorded a five song EP in the multi-track audio studio.

These were all things that were done outside of the standard class time and the program at Assiniboine provided those opportunities.

What advice would offer to someone interested in media?

My advice is to set yourself up for success; find people that are doing what you want to do and ask them how they got there. My experience is that most people love to share their knowledge with people looking at the industry and they can be a great source of advice or mentorship.

ASSINIBOINE RECEIVES $25K FUNDING GRANT TO SUPPORT RESEARCH INTO STUDENT

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Assiniboine received a $25,000 Bell Let’s Talk Post-Secondary Kickoff grant to support the college’s research into student well-being, which is in alignment with the National Standard of Canada for Mental Health and Well-Being for Post-Secondary Students.

“The mental health and well-being of our students and employees is a top priority for Assiniboine Community College. This particular funding will support research into student well-being at Assiniboine through the hire of a researcher to administer and present the findings of the internal audit tool provided in The National Standard of Canada for Mental Health and Well-Being for Post-Secondary Students,” said Brandy Robertson, Wellness Student Success Advisor at Assiniboine.

“If the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that taking care of our mental health is essential, especially for students, who are at a critical point in their lives.”

Through this funding the college will host student-led focus groups to gather qualitative research results related to specific subjects such as inclusion, success, support, and wellness. The results from the focus group findings and

the internal audit will be used to establish a firm understanding of student well-being at Assiniboine.

Bell awarded more than $3 million in funding to 123 post-secondary institutions across Canada who will each receive a $25,000 Kickoff Grant.

“Bell is committed to supporting student mental health and we were pleased to see so many postsecondary institutions apply for funding – such a great response in fact that we increased total funding for the initiative by almost 25% to more than $3 million,” said Mary Deacon, Chair of Bell Let’s Talk in a news release issued by Bell.

“These grants will help colleges and universities across the country accelerate the important work they’re doing to support student mental health and well-being. We look forward to building on their progress with more funding later this spring for schools implementing new initiatives aligned with the Standard,” added Deacon.

In June, Bell Let’s Talk will launch a second phase of the Post-Secondary Fund with implementation grants for institutions that have used the Standard to identify specific gaps or needs in their mental health support services and are building new initiatives to address them.

When it comes to mental health, now more than ever, every action counts.

Join in to help create positive change. Visit bell.ca/LetsTalk

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Meet Assiniboine Alum

JAMIE KUCEY

Carpentry & Woodworking (‘97)

Where do you currently work?

I am currently president Inaka Custom Furniture and Art, where I make one-off functional art furniture and accessories.

What is challenging about your work?

Letting the world know I’m here, I’m local, available, reasonably priced and absolutely custom. I am a niche market and finding those who want something that is unique in design and singular in execution is a challenge. I don’t do production work, my pieces are the wow factor.

Why did you choose this career path?

Making furniture was a happy accident that followed after I enrolled in the Carpentry and Woodworking program at Assiniboine.

Was it difficult to find work in your field?

As a female, I did have to spend some time finding sawyers who were willing to do what I asked, rather than tell me even though I was paying them by the hour. Still after all this time, when my creative partner and husband are talking to a man about woodworking, he will always talk solely to my husband even when he’s been told I am the one who does everything in the woodworking area and my husband does the antlers! I also have to dissuade men from thinking that if they only had the same machines I do, they could create what I do. I am happy to report that those men are usually 50 years and older!

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Did you take additional steps to get where you are today?

I worked with a cabinetmaker south of Brandon for my three weeks practicum and then went back to work with him for a year to hone my skills. I took the R2000 course to become a registered builder in order to build my own house.

What career related community work are you involved in?

We have done several wood/science projects (catapults & ballistics, Wonderful Wood based on the Virginia Tech program, chromatography with leaves, bluebird houses, etc.) with the Grade 5 class at our local school. We were scheduled to do art projects with Grades 9-12, but that was postponed due to COVID. Do you have a career highlight you are most proud of?

Firstly, in 2011 I was the volunteer advisor in a CESO funded project in San Pedro Sula, Honduras where I designed a line of furniture based on the ancient Maya culture for Fundacion Cuprofor.

This is a local enterprise that harvests underused wood species sustainably and makes furniture employing several workshops in the area. I also advised them on production methods and set up a photography studio for their catalog. Their production was increased by 30% through my input.

Secondly, from 2012 to 20I4 I spent two years creating over 200 pieces for Thermëa spa in Winnipeg. This included 43 proprietary designs using native Manitoba woods and innovative uses of branches and bark.

Did you receive an award during your time at Assiniboine?

Assiniboine presented me with the award for achievement and excellence for obtaining the highest marks in my class. Thank you, it looks very good on my wall!

What would you say was your most important experience at Assiniboine was?

I enjoyed all the classes. I only had two instructors, but I’ll say that Rob Holland was my favorite.

My most important student experience was being accepted by all the male members of my course as I was the only female.

What were the most important skills you gained at Assiniboine?

Use and maintenance of the various woodworking machines, R2000 building techniques and a work ethic instilled by my instructor, Rob Holland, were the most important. I have had the machines since I graduated in 1997 and they are in great condition. I used the knowledge gained from the R2000 techniques to get further education to become certified to build my own house. Rob taught me that if you’re going to do a job, you do it 100%. If you say, “that’s good enough, it probably isn’t!”

A LU M N I NEWS

ALMOST

Invisible

Jamie Kucey is hosting a virtual exhibit called “Almost Invisible”, sharing the stories of seven grandmothers and their connection to seven Manitoba trees. Kucey created more than 30 furniture pieces, which are for sale, after meeting with seven women, who each had a unique experience or story surrounding a different Manitoba-native tree.

Originally intended to be a live multimedia exhibit, due to COVID-19 restrictions, Kucey instead released these stories in booklet form and is selling the furniture pieces online.

Proceeds from booklet sales will go to support the Regenisis Recovery Centre.

Follow @antlerwoodart on Instagram to explore the furniture pieces or email inakacanada@gmail.com for more information.

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Josh Swain (Business Administration, ‘09), was one of 20 Canadians chosen as inaugural McCall MacBain Scholars, recipients of the country’s first comprehensive leadership-based scholarship for master’s and professional studies. In the fall, he will enter the master of science in public health program at McGil.

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Dallas Flett-Wapash (Interactive Media Arts, ‘17) and Taylor McArthur (Interactive Media Arts, ‘19) are affiliated digital artists at the Aabijijiwan New Media Lab in Winnipeg.

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Sanket Patel (Hotel & Restaurant Management, ‘12), has co-opened an East Indian restaurant, Fusion Curry, in Regina. The restaurant has been operating for the past year and is doing well.

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Danielle Adriaansen, (Web Design, ‘11), was awarded Westmans Top 4 Under 40 by the Brandon Chamber of Commerce in their 2021 Business Achievement Awards. This award recognizes outstanding achievement by an individual under the age of 40 who works in a leadership role in any size organization from the private, public or non-profit sector.

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Desiree Brightnose, (Interactive Media Arts, ‘20) is one of nine Indigenous creators selected for the CBC New Indigenous Voice program presented by National Screen Institute – Canada.

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Jon Temple, (Business Administration, ‘08) Vice President of the Alumni Association, made partner with MNP (Accounting and Business Advisory firm).

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Gabriel Mercier, (Auto Mechanics, ‘74 and Motor Vehicle Body Repair, ‘75) Director of our Parkland Campus for the past ten years retired this June 2021.

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Len Tardiff, one of our Food Processing instructors, passed away May 17, 2021. Len was a valued member of our team and will be truly missed. The success of our Food Processing programs can be attributed to Len’s experience, knowledge and love of meat cutting. He was very proud of the food processing lab, his students and the Protein Pantry.

SHARE YOUR NEWS Visit us online and share your news or achievements at assiniboine.net/alumni 9

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

BUILDING TOWARDS A BRIGHTER FUTURE

T g n u o Y h t e i r B

Every day, I’m becoming more of the person I envision — a leader, mentor and counsellor.

This year has had me reflecting now on my career path and how it aligns with my entrepreneur skills. I had a vision to create a club suited for international students that will bridge the gap between cultural diversities while creating a positive forum to voice our concerns and opinions.”

New to Canada in December 2019, second-year Human Resources Management student Brieth Young-Taylor and her family made the big decision to move from the Bahamas to Brandon, Manitoba to continue creating the future they want for their family.

“The International Student Club is where students from different cultures, regions, religion can come together and make a difference in helping to ease some of the burdens that we international students may go through on a daily basis. I have always had a passion to help people become the best that they can be.”

“I wanted a different atmosphere and lifestyle for my family. I am really enjoying studying Human Resource Management, and I love how Assiniboine is a family-oriented college. Every faculty member and staff is there to help you. Mrs. Diane Merrett helped me so much in both Personal Management and Organizational Management courses; her warm and enthusiastic attitude toward helping and

BUSINESS PROGRAMS Learn more about Business programs at assiniboine.net/business 10

assisting as best as she can. Any student who has Diane as an instructor is so blessed.”

“After graduation, I hope to have my acceptance letter as a Chartered Professional in Human Resources Candidate and plan to continue my education by obtaining my Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources Management.”

Right: Brieth Young-Taylor standing in front of Assiniboine’s Victoria Avenue East campus.

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Introducing

CENTRE FOR CREATIVE MEDIA

Renovations at our Victoria Avenue East campus will see our Adult Collegiate relocated to this campus and the new build of the Centre for Creative Media, which will be home to three new creative media programs.

Left: [L to R:] Members of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba including Hon. Reg Helwer, Assiniboine president Mark Frison; Hon. Wayne Ewasko, Len Isleifson and Hon. Cliff Cullen, take a tour of the Victoria Avenue East campus to view current redevelopment and expansion projects.

Opposite Page Top: Conceptual floor plan of the new Centre for Creative Media.

Far right: Studio A is a key learning centre to teach students industry studio standards and set protocols.

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Right: Newly created Production Control Centre to simulate real world work environments for students to learn in.

“In 2016, Assiniboine welcomed an offer from the provincial government to put unused space at our Victoria Avenue East campus to use,” said Mark Frison, president at Assiniboine. “This has allowed us to better serve learners, industry, and the community during a time of immense growth.”

Assiniboine’s growth strategy has resulted in a 58 per cent increase in the number of graduates since 2013. The college’s strategic direction has a stated goal of 2,028 graduates by 2028.

“Bringing our Adult Collegiate into the fold at the Victoria Avenue East campus will allow us to collocate services for students, allowing adult learners to access the full range of supports easily in one place,” said Kate Pelletier, Dean of Trades and Access Programs at Assiniboine.

Innovative new learning spaces will be home to Assiniboine’s three new creative media programs—Digital Art and Design; Media and Communications; and Web and Interactive Development—inside a 1050-square-foot facility.

Construction on both the Adult Collegiate relocation and Centre for Creative Media projects will be underway by the end of this month with plans to have the spaces ready to welcome students this fall.

“New and enhanced learning spaces mean greater opportunities for students to access post-secondary education in in-demand fields of interest,” said Wayne Ewasko, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Immigration.

“Economic growth in Manitoba relies on postsecondary programs that align with the labour market and building industry partnerships that inform this alignment.”

These rejuvenation and expansion projects follow on the heels of other renovations the college has undertaken in the past several years including the Public Safety Training Centre (2016), Food Processing Centre (2019) and Assiniboine Early Learning Centre (2019). The current renovations are expected to cost approximately $6 million and will be funded using the college’s financial reserves.

“These investments into the Victoria Avenue East campus are supporting programming that is meeting the labour market needs in the Westman region,” said Reg Helwer, Minister of Central Services and MLA for Brandon West. “We will continue to work collaboratively with our institutions to further support student success.”

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PRACTICAL NURSING PROGRAM EXPANDS IN

e i r i a r P a l e g a t r o P

Ten additional seats for practical nursing will be available starting in September 2022, when Assiniboine will transition its Practical Nursing program site in Portage la Prairie to a permanent site.

The college will now have space for 35 new students in each intake into the program every two years.

in our province, and this program expansion helps to meet future health care workforce needs in the Southern Health-Santé Sud region.”

“We appreciate the government’s support, allowing us to make a permanent home for our nursing program in Portage la Prairie while expanding capacity to educate more students on their paths to careers in healthcare,” said Mark Frison, President of Assiniboine Community College.

The existing Portage la Prairie rural rotating site has always been an in-demand location for practical nursing education. Here, the college remains focused on rural applicants, rural practicum placements, and graduates’ pathways to employment in rural Manitoba.

As part of ongoing program review processes, Assiniboine sought government approval to reallocate funding for expanded nursing seats and make the Portage La Prairie site permanent.

Establishing Portage la Prairie as a permanent location for the college’s nursing program will help meet current and upcoming labour market demand for licensed practical nurses in the Southern Health-Santé Sud health region while simultaneously increasing graduates in a rural region.

Assiniboine has offered practical nursing in that location through contracts and rotating programs consistently since 2002.

“Aligning education to the needs of Manitoba is a key feature of our Skills, Talent and Knowledge Strategy. We are pleased to see Assiniboine Community College taking initiative to better serve communities,” said Wayne Ewasko, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Immigration.

“ACC has been a leader in practical nurse education

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“On behalf of Southern Health-Santé Sud I am very pleased with the upcoming announcement from Assiniboine Community College. The LPN training has been a huge success for our organization in recruitment for LPNs in the Portage and surrounding area.” said René Ouellette Vice President Human Resources at Southern Health Sante Sud.

“We know that the majority of the students are from the area and we believe having the permanent site will be beneficial for both of our organizations.

We are really pleased to continue working with ACC on student placements and hopefully continued success recruiting upon graduation.”

Graduates of Assiniboine’s practical nursing program have a very high success rate; 100 per cent of recent graduates have jobs in their field within nine months of completing their studies, according to the college’s 2019-20 employment and satisfaction survey.

Assiniboine currently delivers its practical nursing diploma program at three permanent locations (Winnipeg, Brandon, and Dauphin) and through various rotating and contract programs.

For those interested in learning more about the admission requirements and when applications for this program will be accepted by the college, details are available on Assiniboine’s website.

PRACTICAL NURSING Learn more about the Practical Nursing program at assiniboine.net/nursing

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We appreciate the government’s support, allowing us to make a permanent home for our nursing program in Portage la Prairie while expanding capacity to educate more students on their paths to careers in healthcare.

Above: From a previous academic year, Assiniboine Practical Nursing students learn important skills in a hands on simulation environment.

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w e N s ’ t a h W IN

PARKLAND

THREE NEW OFFICE PROGRAMS FOR PARKLAND CAMPUS Assiniboine will offer three new programs; Office Management, Office Skills, and Medical Administration starting September 2021 at the Parkland campus in Dauphin, MB. Applications for the programs are now being accepted.

“We are extremely pleased to offer these office administration programs and seats at our Parkland campus, aligning our program offerings with the labour market and in-demand careers,” said Bobbie Robertson, Dean School of Business at Assiniboine.

“These three programs all equip learners with the essential skills to succeed in the diverse business industry and medical field. Employers are looking for entry level workers who have experience and knowledge in office management, medical administration, and administrative practices.”

We’re able to offer learners the option to select the program that is right for them as they build a sound foundation from which to launch their careers.”

Students develop a systematic understanding of Canadian health care and the technical knowledge that is fundamental to all medical workplaces.

The office management two year diploma, exposes learners to all matters related to software, bookkeeping, human resources and communication.

The program develops students’ skill sets and leadership abilities to support a team focused and productive work culture and provides hands-on experience in office procedures.

During the two years of study students develop a comprehensive medical vocabulary and become familiar with legal issues in the health care field to help them succeed as an administrative professional.

Collectively, the three programs will offer 25 seats; 10 available for the two-year office management diploma program, 10 for the two-year medical administration diploma program, and 5 for the eight-month office skills certificate program.

The office skills program, is an 8-month certificate program which prepares learners for the constant change in business by emphasizing relevant computer courses, accounting, mathematics and communications, equipping graduates with the confidence and the skills needed to be versatile, responsive and professional in workplaces that never stop.

“These new programs enable students to gain the skills required to fill in-demand jobs across extremely diverse businesses,” said Gabe Mercier, Director of Parkland Campus at Assiniboine. “The benefits of introducing three different business programs to the Parkland area is great.

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Medical administration is a two year diploma program, offering learners the opportunity to enter into the diverse and expansive health care industry.

For those interested in learning more about the admission requirements and how to apply, details are available at the following locations: Office Management: assiniboine.net/office Office Skills: assiniboine.net/officeskills Medical Administration: assiniboine.net/medical Visit www.assiniboine.net/infosessions to view the upcoming free info session schedule online.

TUITION-FREE WELDING PROGRAM

d e w e Ren

We’re proud to announce the continued partnership with Conestoga College (Ontario) to deliver another tuition-free welding program at our North Hill campus in Brandon, MB commencing in July 2021.

“We are proud and excited to continue our partnership with Conestoga to deliver this program which will create opportunities for students to gain skills and knowledge before beginning a career in the trades,” said Kevin Poirier, Associate Dean, Trades. “This program supports Assiniboine’s commitment to offering quality programs responsive to Manitoba’s labour market while meeting industry and community needs,” he added.

The program, funded through the Government of Canada Skilled Trades Awareness Readiness (STAR) program, prepares students for indemand careers while providing a head start for those wishing to work towards a Red Seal in the apprenticeship certification process. As a part of the program, participants will complete hands-on, in-school training for 25 weeks plus an 8-week paid work placement.

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We are proud and excited to continue our partnership with Conestoga to deliver this program.

In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the program will operate with additional safety measures in place on campus to keep students safe.

Selection into the eight-month program focuses on engaging key groups including women, Indigenous Peoples, newcomers to Canada, persons with disabilities, and those currently underemployed.

There is space for fifteen students. Tuition, textbooks, and personal protective equipment are all covered at no cost to those enrolled in the program.

The program includes an eight-week paid work placement offering students pathways into the labour market upon graduation.

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$100K REASONS TO

e t a v o Inn

The Manitoba Canola Growers Association (MCGA) has committed $100,000 to sponsor an industry collaboration area, the Collaboration Zone, within Assiniboine Community College’s Prairie Innovation Centre for Sustainable Agriculture.

“Working with industry is an integral piece of the vision for the Centre,” said Tim Hore, Dean of the School of Agriculture and Environment at Assiniboine. “This is an important partnership and it’s quite fitting to welcome a major commodity association like MCGA aboard the Prairie Innovation Centre project. I look forward to our continued collaboration in enhancing the agricultural landscape in Manitoba.”

The Prairie Innovation Centre is a one-of-a-kind Canadian college project that will bring together collaborative learning spaces, applied research labs, multipurpose spaces and amenities that will serve both industry and the college community. A vital part of the Centre, the Collaboration Zone, is where education and industry connection meet.

“MCGA is proud to expand our longstanding support of Assiniboine Community College,” said Delaney Ross Burtnack, Executive Director, Manitoba Canola Growers Association. “We

18

recognize the invaluable role Assiniboine plays in developing agriculture’s future people and innovations, and the Prairie Innovation Centre Collaboration Zone will become a central point connecting agricultural education to industry. We are honoured to play a role in bringing this new facility to life.”

Danielle Tichit is a faculty member in the School of Agriculture & Environment. In the courses she teaches, students build a thorough understanding and skill set regarding canola production and marketing.

“Canola is essential to agriculture in the Prairies, making up one third of the acres here in Manitoba,” said Tichit. “Our students will either be growing canola in their own future farming operations or supporting the canola industry with financial or production advice. We are fortunate to have had a longstanding partnership with the Manitoba Canola Growers, and I look forward to seeing the Prairie

Innovation Centre provide a space for enhanced collaboration and networking with industry.”

The MCGA have long provided significant support to the college, sponsoring the Manitoba Canola Growers Association Culinary Theatre in the Manitoba Institute of Culinary Arts along with student financial awards for Culinary and Agribusiness students and several event sponsorships.

“Assiniboine is a valued institution to Western Manitoba and to agriculture. In fact, three of my kids launched their careers through Assiniboine programs including Communications, Culinary Arts and Agribusiness,” said Bill Nicolson, who is a farmer and MCGA board member from Shoal Lake, Manitoba. “I'm pleased to support MCGA's investment in the future of education and agriculture in Manitoba.”

Above: Weiming Tang in the welding work shop at the North Hill campus.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Weiming Tang

Welding Program student, North Hill campus

C

ompleting the tuition-free welding program has been one of the most important changes in mine and my family’s life. I was a newcomer to Canada in February 2020; living in China before arriving in Brandon, I worked in sales. I wanted to learn a skill and become a skilled worker for my new life in Canada. Fortunately, I received the opportunity to participate in the tuition-free Welding program, which I have now graduated successfully from and entered the trade where I work as a welder.

I enjoyed the welding training in the shop.

Everything in the tuition-free Welding program was new for me. In fact, I had never manipulated or used a welding machine before starting this program.

My welding instructor, Heather Bruederlin, was really patient and professional. She showed me how to weld and taught me the skills over and over until I was able to do it confidently. She also helped me find my practicum location.

There were definitely some challenges during the program. There was a welding test that I was really frustrated with. It was a 1G SMAW welding and banding test. I

failed to band many times. Fortunately, Heather continued to show me how to weld, and I continued to practice the test until I passed right before Christmas. On the other hand, I’m really proud that I passed the CWB certification welding test in one go.

At the end of January, I received a job offer as a welder from an employer, which was really exciting.

There was no waiting time, and I could earn the wage that I was training for straight away. This was really important because I had had no income for 13 months.

GET TO KNOW OUR STUDENTS Meet more Assiniboine students by visiting assiniboine.net/SPOTLIGHTS

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STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT

n o i t a r b e l e C

Assiniboine is proud to recognize the immense contributions our 2020-21 One To Watch Award Recipients have made during their time at College.

The annual One to Watch awards recognize students for their academic achievements, leadership, contributions to student life, and community involvement.

of pandemic. Most of all, I would like to thank the creator of this award, for making it possible to recognize the hard work and dedication of student leaders,” added Morales.

“We are pleased to recognize these graduates who have excelled during their time at Assiniboine,” said Dr. Deanna Rexe, Vice President Academic at Assiniboine. “These award recipients have shown diligence and commitment, achieving high standards across both academic and extracurricular activities.”

One to Watch awards are presented to students in each of Assiniboine’s programs who have performed exceedingly well. In total, 54 Assiniboine students received awards for this academic year.

Recipients were selected based on a set of criteria including academic merit, leadership, contributions to student life, community involvement and volunteerism.

After a unique year of study, Arriane Flor Morales, a Practical Nursing graduate, is happy to cap the year off with this recognition.

“I am very honoured to receive the One to Watch award. I have faced several challenges on my way here, but each one of them has only strengthened me and made me the person I am today; someone who sets her eyes on a goal and never gives up on any hurdles, until it is achieved,” she said.

“Receiving this award is not possible without the inspiration and guidance from my instructors and fellow classmates whom I have the deepest respect for, and from whom I have derived my strength to pursue nursing school, especially in this time 20

For Kristen Paul, a Mature Student High School graduate, the award was a pleasant surprise, after completing her studies.

“My heart has been warmed from all the positive support and encouragement I have received from my instructors and my student advisor during my time at Assiniboine,” said Paul. “Knowing that someone took the time and effort to put my name forward for this award brings tears of joy to my eyes.”

Each academic school within the college selects a recipient for each program in each location, so those who know the students and the program

content best are involved in choosing the deserving recipients.

“I am so thankful for all my instructors who constantly encouraged me to stay motivated.

It had been a while since I was in a classroom setting and they all made me feel welcomed and at home within the college,” said Kaylah Pascoe Foy, a Business Administration (Human Resource Management) graduate.

“I challenged myself over the last two years, and really stepped out of my comfort zone. It is rewarding to be selected to receive this award for all my hard work.”

In prior years, One to Watch awards have been presented in-person at the Student Achievement Celebration dinner. However, with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s event was cancelled.

READ MORE Visit assiniboine.net/news for the latest news.

Adult Collegiate Mature Student High School

Kristen Paul

Parkland Campus Mature Student High School

Anna-Maria Ogg

School of Agriculture & Environment

Above: Kristen Paul, recipient of the One to Watch Mature Student Senior High award pictured outside the Adult Collegiate campus.

Far left: Kaylah Pascoe Foy, recipient of the One to Watch Business Administration: Human Resources Award pictured at Victoria East Avenue campus.

School of Business

Agribusiness

Jaryn Orr

Baking Foundations

Sakhnoor Kaur

Civil Technician

Andriy Kovalenko

Civil Technology: Municipal Engineering

Shieldon Sanchez

Communications Engineering Technology: Wireless

Devon Nelson

Culinary Arts

Anh Khoa Lam

Environmental Technologies: Land & Water Management

Hanna Weflen

Food Processing

Denisse Novoa Pena

Geographic Information Systems

Cameron Mcateer

Horticultural Production

Leanne Plewes

Hotel & Restaurant Management

Sukhsimran Kaur

Sustainable Food Systems

Lakhveer Kaur

School of Nursing Comprehensive Health Care Aide

Charmaine Beardy

Comprehensive Health Care Aide

Emon Hossain

Comprehensive Health Care Aide

Nichole Huska

Comprehensive Health Care Aide

Logan Sutherland

Practical Nursing

Jon Matthew Lucero

Practical Nursing

Arriane Flor Morales

Practical Nursing

Samuel Nemis

Practical Nursing

Cher-Lyn Stefanson

Accounting

Serag Alfarek

Business Administration: Accounting

Krista Hall

Business Administration: Accounting

Mandi Szabo

Business Administration: Financial Services

Janelle Ryzner

Business Administration: Human Resource Management

Kaylah Pascoe Foy

Business Administration: Human Resource Management

Hanna Momotiuk

Business Administration: Marketing

Michael Peters

General Business

Lorrie Roulette

Finance

Joyce Emeaba

Human Resource Management

Courtney Leask

Interactive Media Arts: Interactive

Michalina Lojek

School of Health & Human Services

Interactive Media Arts: Media

Collin Nickel

Early Childhood Education

Ranjot Singh

Legal Administration

Kelsy Leitch

Education Assistant

Cheryl Champion

Medical Administration

Rolanda Chaske

Network Administration Technology

Alicia Nass

Police Studies

Brooklyn Chartrand

Social Service Worker

Ayla Pont

Office Management

Tania Allain

Child Development Worker

Stacy Beaulieu

Office Skills

Svetlana Medovol

Child Development Worker

Tricia Houle

School of Trades Applied Plumbing Installation

Keith Mousseau

Automotive Technician

Gurmanjit Mahal

Carpentry and Woodworking

Brent Perrin

Construction Electrician

Zachary Zurba

Heavy Duty Equipment Technician

Nicholae Peters

Industrial Metals Fabrication

Keegan Burt

Piping Trades

Ty Loewen

Power Engineering

Kingsley Koni

Welding Conestoga

Jaylyn Fraser

21

NO LONGER THE

BEST KEPT SECRET

Custom education and training for your organization and community!

Assiniboine works in partnership with businesses, Indigenous communities, private agencies, and government departments to develop and deliver training to meet labour market and workforce needs.

Custom education opportunities, no matter the scale, can be delivered on one of our campuses, at the place of business, in community, online or using a blend of multiple approaches.

For more information, email communitydevelopment@assiniboine.net.

22

t o p S t e e Sw

FINDING THE Above: Dr. Sajjad Rao and Tiffany Grenkow, sweet potato grower, viewing the sweet potato research Dr. Rao is currently conducting.

A multi-year sweet potato research project, led by Assiniboine’s Dr. Sajjad Rao, moved to the final phase of the project this spring—commercial production—after receiving grant funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC).

The research project, officially titled “Evaluation and commercialization of sweet potato varieties adapted to Canadian prairies environments” started in 2015. This new grant will ensure that the upcoming phase of the project can ultimately build a Western Canadian source of sweet potato slips.

For this phase, Dr. Rao has partnered with T&T Seeds in Headingley, Manitoba.

“This particular funding will enhance local production capacity for propagating sweet potato planting material, known as slips, through improved greenhouse systems,” said Dr. Rao, who is a faculty researcher at Assiniboine. “This project will transfer an efficient, affordable and scientifically proven greenhouse production system for propagating sweet potato slips to a commercial seed supplier.”

Market and industry demand for sweet potatoes has grown in recent years, making this a crop of interest for Canadian growers.

“Most consumer supply is currently imported from the United States, so there is a market need for Canadian produced sweet potato slips for commercial growers,” said Dr. Rao. “There is significant potential to offset imports and support industry expansion, but this is contingent upon

the local availability of slips for Manitoba growers.

Limited research of energy-intensive greenhouse production of sweet potato slips has been conducted in Canada.”

This research will also provide experiential learning opportunities, giving students significant research experience in data collection, growing crops in passive solar greenhouse systems, data analysis,

Overall, this research project aims to:

communicating results through preparation of written and oral reports and exposure to the commercial production industry.

•

Construct a Canadian economic value chain by offsetting slip import costs with locally produced sweet potato planting material

•

Meet grower and industry market needs

•

Improve population food security and build healthier and stronger communities

•

Enhance agricultural production knowledge and skills to maintain competitiveness and sustainability in the agriculture food and product sector

•

Advance crop production in a sustainable greenhouse setting, enhancing cultural and environmental management practices

Along with this NSERC grant of $25,000, the project has been supported through the years with funding from Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP): A federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) governments initiative to strengthen and grow Canada’s agriculture and agri-food sector.

When this final phase concludes in 2022, commercial production can begin, meaning the sweet potato planting materials (slips) and production technology will be available to Canadian producers who want to produce sweet potatoes.

23

POWERING INTO The 2020-21 season was tumultuous to say the least. With our athletes’ safety being the first priority, many games, training practices and leagues were cancelled or delivered remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the public health environment.

Looking to the upcoming 2021-22 season the Assiniboine Cougars are optimistic for return to play come fall in some variation, depending on the public health conditions at that time. With the building anticipation on what fall sports will bring, each program has been steadily building strong rosters and conducting online training sessions.

Lindsay McLaughlin, Cougars Athletics Manager, and her team have been busy working with each program’s coaching team to identify local talent from within Manitoba to strengthen the Cougars line ups in preparation for the upcoming season.

“It has been an extremely rewarding time, working with talented athletes and our skilled coaching team to align new recruits skills and their respective academic goals,” said McLaughlin. “It is extremely important to our Cougars community that our student athletes prioritize their studies, and sports is only one aspect of their college experience.”

Stay up-to-date with the latest Cougar signings and league developments by following them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram simply search @CougarsACC.

JOIN THE COUGARS ON SOCIAL MEDIA Follow @CougarsACC 24

WOMEN’S SOCCER

MEN’S VOLLEYBALL

Tess Omeljanow Calista Green Drew Curtis Makayla Heap Hannah Yuen Marley Quesnel Alyson Peasgood Natalie Babcock Paige Kacperski Katelyn Brown Brittany Boyd Victoria Olson Juliana Vannucci

Fernando Chorro Carter Beattie Lucas Vasconcelos Jared Martens Jack Pelechaty Noah Barcellona Nolan Slate Talon Frick Cole Allan Hayden Crampain Austin Steele Vaughn Zimmer Josh Crane Cale Murray

Coaches

Gerry Rocan and Kate Broadhead

HOCKEY Marley Quesnel Calista Green Jasmin Denby Megan Quesnel Emily Grossman Sadie Wood Aidan Roberts Makayla Cuvelier Simone Turner-Cummer Alecia Simpson Madison Bateaux Sydney Cancilla Cora Fijala Elisha Oswald

Coaches

MEN’S SOCCER Josh Smud Dawson Brooks Bezalel Gonete Aaron Mair Philip Richardson Zach Quinn Thomas Negiru Yue Ma Harbjal Singh Wagner Ziming

Coach

Chris Mclachlan

Coaches

Joel Small, Sam Isfeld, and Brendan White

WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL Trinity Billaney Christyn Blondeau Jayde Hansen-Young Paige Donald Alexa Nepinak Gina Musgrave Victoria King

Kendra Erickson Rayna Schwalm

Coaches

Jeff Maxwell and John McLeod

FUTSAL For the 2020-21 season Assiniboine did not have men’s and womens futsal teams as the compeition did not run due to the ongoing pandemic and resulting public health conditions.

Tony Bertone, Terry Senkbeil, and Tara Vancauwenberghe

25

THE

2021 marks two large milestones for Assiniboine: 60 years offering post secondary education as a leading educational institution and 35 years of the Parkland campus in Dauphin.

s 0 9 9 1 IN PHOTOS

Former Assiniboine President, Brent Mills (background) with former VP, Academic Gerald Bashforth (driving) 26

Lisa Huston (Students’ Association President) and Tim Ryan (Business Administration instructor)

First Board of Governors

Ag instructors: Jack Braun, Terry Powell and John Bandor

Anne Bridge and Lesa Carey

Brandon University (BU) representive with former Assiniboine Board of Governors Chairperson, Bill Hargreaves and former Assiniboine President, Brenda Cooke signing the first ACC/BU articulation agreement 27

ARMED FOR

FALL

Registered Assiniboine students who receive their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine are eligible to win domestic tuition for 2021-22 academic year!* * Tuition prize up to a maximum of $4,000.

assiniboine.net/ArmedForFall