Mohawk College Alumni In Touch Magazine - Spring 2014

Spring ‘14

touch For Alumni & Friends of Mohawk College

Farewell and Thank You to Rob MacIsaac

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touch Hamilton | Stoney Creek Publisher Mohawk College Alumni Association Editor Wendy Makey

alumni news 9

Design and Production Sofa Communicatons

11 Career Networking

Photography Meaghan Drury, Sean Coffey, Elia Koolsbergen, Richard Gaunt, Kelly Dunham, Courtney Warren, David Allmark, Gaby Almeida

Editorial Advisory Board Wayne Joudrie – President, Mohawk College Foundation, Wendy Makey – Director, Alumni Relations, Meaghan Drury – Communications Coordinator, Kristy Ryerson – Alumni Assistant, Kelly Dunham – Alumni Services Coordinator, Lidia Siino – Past Alumni Council Member

12 Grads at the Olympics 13 Alumni Spotlight – Joseph Truscott

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Fall ‘13

Contributors Gary Nelson, Wendy Makey, Jay Robb, Sean Coffey, Meaghan Drury, Richard Gaunt, Aisha Johnson, Courtney Warren, Amber Richardson, Joshua J. Cooper, Lu Ann Pannunzio, Robert Kulig, Michael Marshall, Kat Cullen, Breanna Ehman

Alumni of Distinction Wall Unveiling

For Alumni & Friends of Mohawk College

Spring ‘14

touch For Alumni & Friends of Mohawk College

Farewell and Thank You to Rob MacIsaac

Content Coordinator Meaghan Drury InTouch is published semi-annually by the Office of Alumni Relations at Mohawk College.

This magazine is circulated to alumni and friends of Mohawk College. Ideas and opinions published or expressed in InTouch do not necessarily reflect those of Mohawk College, The Alumni Association, or the Editor.

Publications Mail Agreement Number 400065780 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: Office of Alumni Relations - Alumni House Mohawk College Foundation P.O. Box 2034 Hamilton, ON L8N 3T2 To update your Alumni Record, please contact: Phone: 905.575.2258, Fax: 905.575.2443 alumni@mohawkcollege.ca or the address above.

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feature 18 Mohawk Bids Farewell to a

Transformational President We look back on the incredible changes to Mohawk’s Fennell campus over the past 5 years.

in every issue 4

Welcoming Words

8

Alumni News and Events

34 Keeping In Touch 43 Calendar of Events

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welcoming words

full speed ahead at mohawk Bob Carrington, Interim President

Mohawk bid farewell to a great president

Campus. The lab features a pair of 3D printers capable

on February 1 as Rob MacIsaac left to

of turning computer images into metal and plastic parts.

assume his new role at Hamilton Health

Students, faculty and staff will work with industry partners to

Sciences. While the attention now shifts

test the applications of this new technology. This lab, and

towards finding a new president to

the Mohawk eHealth Development and Innovation Centre

lead Ontario’s best college, the team at

(MEDIC) directly across the hall, will be become a focal

Mohawk is focused on moving the college forward.

The past year has been an exceptional one for Mohawk. We

point for an updated Engineering Technology wing at the College.

celebrated the opening of the new David Braley Athletic and

These are the latest in a long list of achievements for

Recreation Centre, the largest project to date in the renewal

Mohawk. My job as Interim President is to make sure that

of the Fennell Campus. At the same time, we welcomed

we maintain the momentum, and stay focused on making

nearly a thousand students, staff and faculty from our School

Mohawk a better college for our students, employers, and

of Justice and Wellness Studies back to Hamilton where they

the community we serve.

enjoy some of the newest classrooms and labs on campus.

I’m fortunate to have an exceptional team behind me as I

Looking ahead, we’re setting our sights on our School of

do this. A team that I have worked closely with over the last

Engineering Technology. In March, we opened the Centre for

five years, and one that I am proud to lead until our new

Rapid Prototyping and Additive Manufacturing at the Fennell

president is chosen.

| mohawkcollege.ca/jobcentre |

Connecting Employers with ‘futureready’ Students and Graduates • • • • • • •

Recruit graduates from over 120 full-time and apprenticeship programs Hire Co-op students from over 30 cooperative education programs Post your full-time, part-time and seasonal jobs with us Attend Career Fairs Host Lunch and Learn Information Sessions Partner with Mohawk for a competitive edge and economic prosperity Visit our website for employer information and services

Co-op Services: Fennell Campus, Room J137 135 Fennell Avenue West, P.O. Box 2034, Hamilton, ON L8N 3T2 Tel: 905-575-2167 or toll free 1-888-546-COOP (2667) | Fax: 905-575-2359 | Email: post@mohawkcollege.ca

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greetings from the

welcoming words

alumni council chair The Mohawk College Alumni Council has been busy with many events to support the college and alumni over the past months.

This past October we held a very successful Alumni of Distinction Awards Dinner, where we were able to recognize prominent alumni for their unique career achievements, their commitment to helping others and their involvement in the communities where they live.

In November, six Mohawk College Alumni were nominated for the Premier’s Awards. The Premier’s Awards honour the important social and economic contribution that college graduates make to Ontario and throughout the world.

The new Alumni of Distinction Wall was unveiled recently. The wall is interactive, allowing anyone to search for recipients by program or last name. People can read bios of past winners to gain a deeper understanding of the recipients’ accomplishments and why they were chosen. In fact, we are lucky enough to have two walls of distinction, one is located in “C” wing and the other is the David Braley Athletic and Recreationn Centre.

The Alumni Council has continued to pursue other key projects such as the Awards of Distinction Entrance Bursaries, the development of the Mohawk Young Alumni Connection group, Access Mentoring Program and the Alumni Ambassador Program. We are very excited about all these projects and always look for input and support from all Alumni. If you are interested in being involved in one or more of these projects, please contact the Alumni Office.

I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate Rob MacIsaac on his new appointment and thank him on behalf of all alumni for his accomplishments and contributions to Mohawk College over the past five years. I can truly say that Rob MacIsaac is leaving the college better than he found it and I think I can speak for all alumni when I say that we are very proud of where our college is today. In recognition of all of Rob MacIsaac’s work, the Mohawk Alumni Association has made a $5,000 contribution to the newly established Rob MacIsaac Future Ready bursary, on behalf of all alumni.

Finally, thank you to all the alumni who support the association each year, either financially or by being involved in the many activities that take place over the year. The council is currently looking for new people to replace several members who have reached their maximum six year term, so if you want to have a voice in your alumni association please consider putting your name forward, by emailing the Alumni Office at alumni@mohawkcollege.ca.

Gary Nelson ‘85 Business Administration

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2013-2014 mohawk college alumni association advisory council Gary Nelson Chair

Marcine Blake Vice-Chair

Business Administration, 1985

Recreation Leadership, 1988

Erin Kimbell Director

Dana Jacobs Director

Jody Matheson Director

Darren Hardenbrook Director

Samara Young Director

Police Foundations, 2004

Alan Griffiths Director

Environmental Technician, 2009

Sara Kinnear Director

Sera Nicosia Director

Ryan Chow President, MSA

Business Marketing Coop, 2007

Transportation Engineering Technology, 1995

Recreation and Leisure, 1989

Jackie Fulton President, MCACES

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Business Marketing, 2006

Nursing, 1981

The Alumni Association thanks these individuals for their valued contributions to Alumni activities, committees and meetings on behalf of the Alumni of Mohawk College.

Dr. Sandra Ireland Past Chair Nursing, 1990

Advertising, 1994

your membership has its perks Wendy Makey , ‘93 – Director, Alumni Relations

As you approach your day to day life I know your Alumni Association may be the furthest thing from your thoughts.

But I ask you to keep in mind that your connection to Mohawk doesn’t end with graduation. The Alumni staff and volunteer council work hard to enrich the value of your Mohawk Alumni membership with a benefits program that seeks to bring you exclusive rates, services and discount offers. Whether you only recently left campus, or haven’t walked our halls for a few years, or even decades, the Alumni benefit programs are always available for you.

They could assist you on your next trip with exclusive accommodation or rental car rates. Or when you’re planning your next outing with family or friends and are looking for discounted tickets for an attraction, theme

park or show. Your member benefits are diverse in nature and will save you money.

Our affinity partnerships offer you group insurance rates, travel discounts, a credit card as well as Mohawk branded rings and frames. These partnerships not only benefit you, but provide revenue to the Alumni Association based on participation in the programs.

I encourage you to participate in these opportunities to enjoy all the benefits that your alumni membership can offer!

To find out more about these offers, check out a full list of affinity partners and member benefits at mohawkcollege.ca/alumniBenefits. Also, if you have suggestions for programs or partners please feel free to share them with us at alumni@mohawkcollege.ca

Keep in Touch

Advertise With Us! The bi-annual Alumni In Touch magazine is distributed to over 62,000 Mohawk College Alumni and friends in the Spring and Fall, through Canada Post.

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alumni news alumni news

alumni of distinction

wall unveiling

On January 16th, 2014 the new interactive Alumni of Distinction Wall was unveiled on the Fennell campus. With many grads, past Alumni of Distinction Award recipients, Mohawk staff and guests in attendance the Alumni Association was thrilled to show off the two prominent locations of the Alumni of Distinction walls, on campus, that will continue to honour our outstanding grads.

“

As you walk into the newly renovated Mohawk College something that stands out are the two new Alumni of Distinction Walls. I was always inspired by the dedication of the professors and students that make Mohawk a great place to enjoy the journey of learning. Never thinking I would be alongside these great city leaders and professionals such as Chief of Police Brian Mullan and TV Anchor Connie Smith on the wall of distinction.

It is a great honor.

”

– Don MacVicar, 2007 Alumni of Distinction Recipient

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alumni news

a walk down memory lane

25 Year Reunion: Computer Systems Technology, Class of 1988

By Richard Gaunt, ‘88 A dark, windy, and rainy night couldn’t stop Class of ‘88 Computer Systems Technology classmates from getting together for a 25 year reunion on October 19, 2013. The group consisted of ten classmates and a couple of plus ones. They came from as far away as Aurora, Toronto, and Fonthill to as close as just a few blocks away. After handing out some goodies from the Alumni Association the group proceeded to take an unguided tour of Mohawk. No one had seen the big changes that have occurred since graduation and many were visiting for the first time since graduation.

We reminisced about the security desk and its grey haired occupants that used to be in the front hall. Today, signing-in is no longer a ritual to be allowed to proceed through the halls. We had free reign to proceed as we desired. First stop was E-wing, where we spent most of our class time back in the day. The computer room has been moved, but not far and there are a few changes down E-wing but it felt pretty similar to the past. Next stop was at the Computer Systems and Information Technology sign to take a picture and reminisce some more about the classes we took and some classmates who did not make the trip back.

Onward, we proceeded to the Arnie. Unfortunately, on this night, it was closed. It would have been nice to see the million dollars of renovation. Up the stairs we went to the David Braley Athletic and Recreation Centre. It was impressive!

We doubled back down E-wing to F-wing and onto C-wing. The old bookstore is gone and what looks like a kitchen is in its place. [editor’s note: This is the location of the Health & Wellness program’s nutrition classes’ kitchen] The old C-wing pit is now the radio station.

We ended the tour at the end of C-Wing, not because there wasn’t more to see but because we’d been touring for about 45 minutes and the next phase of our reunion was waiting. We went to Montana’s Cookhouse on Upper James for some drinks, food, and many more stories.

Stories ranging from adventures during the co-op work terms we had, to the post grad party and the burning of the books bon fire, to the mystery ball hockey player, to the events of present day life.

At the end of the night, talk of having a 30-year reunion was clearly a desire for the future. Maybe by then we will have more than one grandparent in the group.

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alumni news

do you have what it takes?

By Aisha Johnson, 1st Year Journalism, Broadcast & Print Career Networking, an annual event held by the Mohawk College Alumni Association, educates present and past students about the etiquette expected of each and every student preparing to enter the world of work.

On Wednesday, February 12, both past and present students filed through the doors to attend this event. Upon arriving, students were encouraged to network with other students and attendees at the event. While some students did this with joyous greetings, smiles and handshakes, others decided to just sit and partake of the finger foods that were available.

Fatima Di Valentin, the speaker for the night was both charming and instructive with presenting the values expected of potential employees to their employers in the workplace and at business meetings or cocktail parties.

The presentation wasn’t just talk. It was engaging and offered hands-on practice and personal experiences for various students in the audience.

Although there was a dress code sent out to the attendees of this event, various students still attended wearing jeans, hats and runners. The mandatory dress code was business attire; some may ask this question, would you

wear jeans, hats and runners to a job interview?

The obvious answer would be no, while others still would. “Your appearance, your smell, your volume, and body languages are keys to making a great first impression,” said Fatima.

Students need to learn how to follow rules, especially something as simple as a dress code.

“Your likeability increases your credibility,” said Fatima. This means, if you show up to a meeting with the wrong attitude and not wearing the appropriate clothing for the event, it immediately sends out a negative signal to the employer. Dress appropriately.

Fatima reminded us to, “always remember your goals.”

While some of us are shy and not necessarily motivated to be the best at what we do, Fatima reminded us that by thinking confidently, we appear confident and a confident person intrigues an employer.

After two hours of networking, practicing handshakes, common courtesy and listening to the engaging information that was presented, Fatima ended the presentation with an important quote, “Good manners can get you further than a good education.” So do you have what it takes to make a great employee? After that intriguing and informative presentation I know I do.

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alumni news

Left to right: Leigh Ann (Warren) Sutherland ‘98, Jo Ann Warren, Lauren Cassa ‘06, Courtney Warren ‘05, Leah Furey, and Theresa Furey ‘00

is your palate educated?

By Courtney Warren, ‘05 It is said that an educated palate enables you to appreciate the range of flavours, aromas, and textures in wine. When you taste wine properly you ‘swish’ a little bit around in your mouth like mouthwash and then take another sip, deliberately taking the time to appreciate it. This is but one step of many in the “proper” tasting process. Wine education includes learning about grapes, wine regions, and the wine-making process, as well as the tasting process: from holding the glass, to looking at, swirling, smelling, sipping and tasting the wine. Taking your tasting a step further – through wine education – can be fun and will enhance your wine appreciation. It is with this idea in mind we came up with the idea for our event.

On Friday, February 21st the Mohawk Young Alumni Connection (MYAC) launched its first event for young alumni: Educate Your Palate - Sensory Awakenings. We met at Southcote 53 Tap & Grill where our outstanding Sommelier, Lauren Cassa ‘06, lead us through an evening that awakened our taste buds to the flavours in the wine and in the food. It was a great way to experience several different wines with a meal in a restaurant setting.

Lauren began our sensory-awakening by strategically pairing the different wines (2 white, 2 red, and 1 ice wine) with the food. We drank and ate and shared with each other the different flavours and smells we experienced. We made notes on each wine, which helped us distinguish between the two we sampled. In order to take useful notes, we needed to consider how each sip of wine affected our senses. First, we held the glass of wine up to the light. Was it opaque or transparent? Was it dark or light? After taking

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in the appearance of the wine, we swirled it around in our glass to add a little oxygen. Then we stuck our noses right in the glass and took a big whiff. How did it smell: Did it smell more like fruit or flowers? Did it have a hint of wood smell? After sniffing the wine it was time to finally consume it, but only a sip, just enough to saturate our taste buds (this is where the ‘swishing’ came in). After our first sip we took another good mouthful and enjoyed. Again, we took some notes. What were our first impressions of taste: Did it linger in our mouth? What aftertaste remained? Did we like it or not? The beauty of wine tastings is that you can sample a number of wines and decide what best suits you and your palate. After learning the process and taking some notes, we were left with more confidence in our ability to compare wines. Becoming a wine connoisseur, or expert-taster, will take practice, but we all agreed that we are up for the challenge.

Not everyone wants or needs an educated palate, but we thought this would be a fun activity to bring alumni and guests together for a social evening out. Everyone had a great time and the feedback was tremendous. It was a great opportunity to enjoy some good food, wine, and learn something new, but above all it was a great opportunity to meet some new people and reconnect with old friends. If wine education isn’t your thing, don’t worry, we have some great events coming up that are sure to awaken other senses in you.

The Mohawk Young Alumni Connection (MYAC) seeks to engage with graduates who became Alumni up to 10 years ago. Courtney Warren is part of the MYAC committee who are working to plan and execute events, along with the assistance of the Alumni Office, for recent graduates. Join your MYAC at the next event! Get the latest information by connecting with us via Twitter(@mohawkalumni), Facebook.com/mohawkcollegealumni or alumni. mohawkcollege.ca.

alumni news

behind the scenes at the

2014 winter olympics

Alumni Spotlight: David Allmark ‘93 & Gaby Almeida ‘04

By Amber Richardson ‘13 and Meaghan Drury ‘12

What was it like to cover the Olympics?

David Allmark: As far as the broadcasting goes it is definitely the pinnacle; it was a story that every broadcaster would love to work on. It was nice to be chosen to be a part of the event. I have been working for many years hoping to get a chance to cover the Olympics, and I am glad I had the opportunity.

Did you operate out of Toronto or Russia?

What part did you have in the broadcasting aspect?

David: It was the first year that they brought all of the feeds back, we had a studio floor in Sochi, but all of the control rooms behind the scenes, including all of the editing, were done out of Toronto. This is the first Olympics that we have done it this way.

I am the technical producer so I am in charge of the technical crew, everyone that does anything technical would report to me.

Gaby Almeida: I worked on the host broadcasting side of things at the Curling Venue in Sochi. I was the Lead Video Specialist at Curling, which meant that I was in charge of the look of all shows leaving that venue. There were usually

four shows being sent out at the same time from the Curling rink. I had six other operators working with me that made up the video team for the event.

It was an awesome experience and a great challenge for me to take on. We worked very long hours day in and day out, but it’s something I’ll never forget. I also got to work with some amazing people from across the country and from around the world.

Have you worked on an Olympic story before?

Gaby: While still here in Toronto, I had a chance to work on the Athens, Torino and Beijing Olympic broadcasts at CBC. I’ve been at CBC for 12 years. But Sochi was my first games away.

David: I have had small parts in Olympic coverage in the past, but this is the first time I have been involved on a managerial level.

In the past would you have sent a crew to cover the event?

David: Yes. Usually we would send a huge crew to cover the Olympics; we would build our control rooms there and work from that location. This year we only sent a few members

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alumni news of the team, and sent all the feeds home to Toronto and Montreal to be produced in our studio. We only actually had a small floor space at the Olympic site.

Is there anything that you took away from the experience or would have liked to see?

David: Because we have never done the broadcast this way, it was all IP based, no other broadcast network has ever done that before. For us it was pretty groundbreaking.

What was you favourite highlight?

Gaby: It’s really hard to find just one. Just being there was

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the highlight for me. Being part of such an amazing team, and on more of a personal level, that such a big challenge was entrusted to me and that I could take it on. Meeting and working with so many great people was also awesome.

I could really go on and on. On a patriotic side note, it was pretty cool to work a venue where two Canadian gold medals were won.

David: Women and men’s hockey teams, the women’s one was the most exciting with that “coming from behind aspect.” And the bobsledding, that was also a “come from behind” win, Canada did great all around.

alumni news

alumni spotlight joseph truscott

By Joshua J. Cooper, 2nd Year Journalism

Mohawk College has been the alma mater of many distinguished graduates. One of the perhaps lesser-known ones is the highly successful Joseph Truscott, a graduate of the Marketing and Accounting program.

“The accounting program was a major advantage to me, because I was allowed to enter Ryerson [University] directly into fourth year, with an exemption for the first three years,” said Truscott, a Chartered Professional Accountant who is the sole practitioner at the firm that bears his name.

they want to do with their future, but that wasn’t the case for Truscott.

“I was fortunate enough that when I attended Mohawk College there was an instructor named Jack Brown. He was very instrumental in assisting me with my decision.”

“My education at Mohawk really helped prepare me.”

Truscott says the entertaining aspects of Brown’s classes were what drove him to succeed. He describes Brown as a comedian who had a wide array of ties to wear and jokes to tell, and points to this as a key aspect behind his success in the accounting field.

A chartered accountant is a professional designation, of which there are three available in Canada.

“It was always an inspiration to go to his class; I looked forward to talking to him and meeting with him.”

“As a Chartered Accountant you are allowed to practise publicly which means that you can have your own clients or look after people in business and industries” said Truscott. “I am also a CMA [Certified Management Accountant].”

“Jokes kind of open the door for something that could’ve been closed. Jack added a different flair because of his personality that attracted me toward accounting.”

“I decided to go the Chartered Accounting route because I thought at that time, and I still believe, it’s the premier profession of the three.”

Many students struggle in college when deciding what

Truscott doesn’t get to use humour as much as he’d like these days; he’s too busy running his firm, but he’ll never forget Jack Brown, and the education he received.

See video of the full interview with Joe on the Alumni website at mohawkcollege.ca/alumni, produced by 3rd year, TV Broadcasting student, Mike Trickett.

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feature story

mohawk bids farewell to

By Sean Coffey Ask anyone to describe Rob MacIsaac’s term as president and the answer you’ll most likely hear is transformational.

The most obvious transformation is the renewal of the Fennell Campus. Before the renewal, Mohawk was a school where students came to class and then promptly left. There were few common areas for students to go between classes. Its brown brick and locker-lined hallways looked more like an oversized high school rather than a place of higher learning.

Walk the halls of the Fennell Campus today and you’ll find plenty of spaces filled with students sharing ideas, collaborating on projects or just relaxing between classes. There’s also a new library and collaboratory, a 65,000 square foot recreation centre, a new cafeteria, better classrooms and labs, and even a Starbucks.

As impressive as the renewal is however, like any renovation or construction work the novelty quickly wears off. What matters most to a college is its reputation.

In 2011, Mohawk went from the back of the pack in overall student satisfaction on the

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province’s annual Key Performance Indicator survey, to being the number one college in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area. It has held that number one spot for three years running.

This has been huge boost to the college’s reputation, and a testament to the work that Rob and his team have done and will continue to advance.

“There’s no question Mohawk is in very good shape thanks to Rob’s leadership” says Nancy Fram, Chair of the College’s Board of Governors.

“In five years, Rob managed to pull off 20 years worth of transformational change,” she says.

“Not only has the campus been transformed, so too has the College’s profile and reputation in the community, at Queen’s Park, and among the hundreds of employers who help train our students and hire our graduates.”

One of the witnesses and participants in that transformation is Alan Griffiths, manager of Mohawk’s sustainability office. Alan also worked with Rob as president of the Mohawk Students’ Association from 2008 to 2010.

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transformational president Alan’s first experience working with Rob was during a meeting on parking rates shortly after he became college president in 2009. Parking was a contentious issue at the time, and Alan, the MSA and the college were under pressure to ease the burden on students.

“I think Rob will be remembered as the leader who brought together the best team for the job. You can see that in everything he accomplished during his time here. He knew how to build a great team and he knew how to get the most from that team.”

“Rob listened to us at that meeting. He was genuinely interested in hearing what the students had to say, and I remember being very impressed with him for that,” says Alan. “He brought everyone to the table that day and we walked away from that meeting with a solution students could accept.”

In the end, it’s current and future students who stand to benefit the most from the transformation Rob brought to Mohawk.

After two terms as MSA president, Alan took on the role of sustainability initiatives coordinator for Mohawk in 2010. It was a role that would see him working for Rob rather than sitting across the table from him as the student association president. His first assignment: to develop an environmental management plan for the college.

A lot of schools were talking about sustainability then but few had a formal plan in place, says Alan. Mohawk became one of the first to develop a plan and set targets.

“He gave me the opportunity. He took a chance on me and allowed me to do something that was based on my Mohawk education.”

What made the difference, says Alan, is the team he was able to work with.

Under Rob’s leadership, Mohawk launched the Access initiative, a game-changer for young people in Hamilton’s high-need neighbourhoods. This initiative clears a path to postsecondary education for students who might not have considered it an option.

By 2013, Mohawk had connected with more than 3,200 students living in high-need neighbourhoods, and of those, nearly 700 applied to programs at Mohawk.

To make sure Rob’s legacy of transformation lives on, the Mohawk College Foundation has set up a bursary in the former president’s honour. The Rob MacIsaac Future Ready Bursary will be a permanently endowed bursary dedicated to assisting students with limited means but unlimited potential.

For more information on the Rob MacIsaac Future Ready Bursary visit: www.mohawkcollege.ca/foundation

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feature strory

three cheers

for the David Braley Athletic and Recreation Centre

By Sean Coffey Mohawk unveiled its newest addition in September with the opening of the new David Braley Athletic and Recreation Centre. Since then, the centre has become a focal point of activity on campus, especially among the college’s varsity athletes who finally have a facility that matches the calibre of the teams playing in it.

“

“Everything about this place is new. We’re the first teams to play here so it’s kind of special for us,” he says.

Jeff Hunt has been playing basketball for the Mohawk Men’s Mountaineers Basketball for the last three years. He graduated from Mohawk’s Police Foundations program in 2013, but decided to return for the Health, Wellness and Fitness program last fall. The opportunity to play in the new centre was a factor in Jeff’s decision to do another three years at the college.

”

The 65,000 square foot centre features three gymnasiums for varsity and intramural sports, an indoor running track, fitness centre, multi-purpose exercise studios, and a Booster Juice. Outside there is a massive outdoor plaza (common area) along with volleyball courts and a large projection screen for outdoor events.

Everything about this place is new.

The two-storey centre is also to be home to Volleyball Canada’s newest centre for excellence for training elite athletes.

There’s a lot to like about the new centre, says Jeff, but one of the best things from the team’s perspective is the

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space. “There’s a lot more space. We can all practice at decent times and that means we have more time to focus on school work.”

In the old gym, the teams had to work around each other’s schedule, he explained. That often resulted in practices that would go later than 11 p.m.

The David Braley Athletic and Recreation Centre is also a source of pride for the athletes, he says.

“Nobody really liked playing at the old gym. It was small.

There wasn’t a lot of room for people to come and watch.

Now, everyone is amazed by the size of the courts.”

The larger size also gives the Mountaineers an advantage, he notes. “It gives us a leg up when we go to larger venues to play because we’re now used to playing in a large gym.

I think that’s going to help us to win more championships down the road.”

It may already be paying off. This year, Mohawk took home gold medals in both varsity men’s volleyball and badminton.

And soon some of those championships could be won on home turf. This February, the centre played host

to the Ontario Colleges Athletics Association Women’s Basketball Championship. It was the first time in many years that Mohawk has been able to host a provincial championship. The Mohawk women won silver in the championship.

The OCAA women’s championship was a warm up for the 2015 Canadian Colleges Athletics Association Men’s Basketball Championship that will be hosted at Mohawk next year. The event runs March 19 – 21, 2015.

The David Braley Athletic and Recreation Centre is the largest project to date to be completed as part of the Fennell Campus renewal project. Launched in the summer of 2009, the Fennell Campus renewal project further enhances the quality of education and overall college experience for Mohawk students. Among the key additions to the campus has been the Cummings Library and Collaboratory, the relocation of Mohawk’s School of Justice and Wellness Studies from Brantford, a one-stop centre for student services and 70,000 square feet of renovated classrooms, labs and common areas.

By September 2013, more than $80 million had been invested in Mohawk’s largest campus.

Jeff Hunt

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R b MacIsaac ACCESS BURSARY A new bursary has been established to build on one of Rob MacIsaac’s signature projects as president of Mohawk College.

Improving access to postsecondary education was a college priority and personal mission for Rob. In some neighbourhoods, Mohawk seemed a world away and beyond reach for young people and their families. Continuing on to postsecondary education was the exception rather than the rule.

Under Rob’s leadership, Mohawk launched a first-of-its-kind Access Project with the college’s business, community and education partners. Through innovative community outreach initiatives like a College in Motion team and loyalty reward program, Mohawk has started conversations and forged connections with thousands of families. Hundreds of young people who connected with Mohawk while in high school are now students at the college.

To recognize Rob’s commitment to improving access to postsecondary education, the Mohawk College Foundation has established the Rob MacIsaac Future Ready Bursary. It will make a college education more affordable for young people who have unlimited potential yet limited means.

Two generous supporters of Mohawk College have once again stepped up for students. The Marshall family and the Joyce Foundation have each offered to match up to $50,000 in donations made to the Rob MacIsaac Future Ready Bursary. The Marshall family has donated more than $2.5 million to Mohawk’s skilled trades campus and bursaries while the Joyce Foundation donated a record-setting $1.5 million to student bursaries in 2012.

To support the Rob MacIsaac Future Ready Bursary and help more young people get a Mohawk education, go to mohawkcollegefoundation.ca or call the Mohawk College Foundation at (905) 575-2186.

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Plan your next move Visit ONTransfer.ca and learn how to transfer your credits in Ontario’s postsecondary system.

ONTransfer.ca is funded by the Government of Ontario and maintained by the Ontario Council on Articulation and Transfer.

Cette information est aussi disponible en français.

@ONTransfer

| #pathways

Stay Connected...

You get to choose how you would like to be engaged as a Mohawk Alumni, and your membership is for life.

Alumni Association Council – provide advice & direction on Alumni activities Convocation Speakers – share your experiences with the graduating class Meet the Grad Nights – come back and talk with students who are about to graduate from your program/school Attend one our Annual Events In Touch magazine – contribute to our Alumni magazine by writing an article Volunteer Opportunities – committee and event positions Participate in Academic Placement Programs – provide a placement for a student Program Advisory Committees – volunteer and assist the college in shaping the curriculum for programs Job Centre Connections – provide co-op employment opportunities Nominate an alumnus/alumna – for an Alumni of Distinction Award Be a Class Connector and organize a class reunion

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connection

@mohawkalumni

blog

Mohawk College Alumni Association Group

alumni

Visit our website - alumni.mohawkcollege.ca Email us – alumni@mohawkcollege.ca Stop by and visit us at the ALUMNI HOUSE anytime!!

C

alumniblog.mohawkcollege.ca

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alumni online

twitter

a real-time communication guide

By Lu Ann Pannunzio ‘12 (@teaaholic)

Launched in 2006, Twitter has become a popular microblogging network website for many. Used by millions of people and organizations, Twitter is the number one source to quickly share and discover information in 140 characters or less.

The great thing about Twitter is it means many different things to many different people. It is a miniature blog, a business tool, social media marketing, news reporting service, etc. By focusing more on “What is going on?” rather than “What are you doing?” it has emerged into a great source for discovery of relevant information and not just what someone ate for breakfast. This social network is not all about how many followers you have but how well you engage with your current ones. Even if you don’t have many followers, all you need is one person to see a quality tweet of yours and pass it on with a retweet.

The Hashtag: It’s not just a pound sign anymore It is a convention among Twitter users to distinguish content using semantic tags, preceded by a # sign. This enables other users to search and filter based on those key terms, collaborate and share relevant information, and enables ‘trending’. Top trends are shown on the left hand side of every Twitter user’s stream, and tracked by other tools.

Hashtags are commonly used when providing live coverage of events, or participating in relevant twitter chats.

Getting Started When signing up for your first Twitter account it can be hard to know what to do. Who do you follow? What do you

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say? To comfort you, here’s the first tweet ever written by Twitter’s co-founder, Jack Dorsey.

Begin by following people you may already know or those who share the same interest as you. If you’re a student at Mohawk College or alumni, following Mohawk College’s account (@MohawkCollegeNews) and/or Mohawk Alumni’s account (@MohawkAlumni) can be beneficial.

On their feed you’ll find information regarding upcoming events, and live coverage from ones they attend. In addition, they alert their followers to new rich media content on their other digital outposts that we may find interesting and related. Examples of this are sharing YouTube clips, photos and blog posts. Following either of these accounts is a simple, yet effective way to stay connected and receive real time answers to a question you mention them in.

Why is Twitter important?

Aside from establishing itself as the main source of live update information, Twitter is also a place where news often breaks (ex: the passing of Michael Jackson). As everything being discussed on Twitter is by its nature happening now, it is increasingly being used as a way of monitoring and reporting on trends.

There is truly no better way to understand the power of Twitter than to see it in action. The Twitter experience is unique for every voice as it is really all about what you’re interested in. If there is anything you take from this, let it be (in 140 characters or less of course): Twitter is a two way communication street. Be engaging!

alumni bloggers Starting with only three bloggers when it launched in the Fall of 2012, the ABC:Alumni Blog Connection has grown to a strong group of 13+ contributors, and we are always looking for more. Comprised of a great group of recent and seasoned grads, from a variety of backgrounds and disciplines, the blog continues to seek to strengthen the Mohawk College Alumni community by hearing from many voices on a variety of subjects, encouraging discussion and engagement from all our grads and the greater Mohawk community. alumniblog.mohawkcollege.ca

alumni online

while I ran my own business and held a managerial position at UPS. Looking for a career change, I went back to Mohawk for Computer Systems Technology 1996-1998 and started a great career in Banking Information Technology.

My investment in a Mohawk education has paid some very sweet returns and will continue to do so for years to come.

Thanks Mo!

Michael Marshall

Concurrent Disorders, ‘12 Why did you become an Alumni Blogger?

I decided to become an alumni blogger because it seemed like it would be fun, and would be a great way to continue to stay in touch with such a great college!

Robert Kulig

Computer Systems Technology, ‘98 Why did you become an Alumni Blogger?

I’ve been told that I have opinions on everything, and apparently, I think the world deserves to hear them!

Seriously, I’ve had a lot of “interesting” experiences in my life and from every challenge, hardship, failure and success I’ve always tried to take away a valuable lesson. I believe in working smarter, not harder, so experience and taking good advice contributes to a better success rate. I impart my wisdom on my kids and like to share my thoughts with others if they care to listen.

Who/what influences what you write about? /How do you choose your blog topics?

The past few blogs have been influenced with whatever has been most prevalent in my life. My hope is that they enlighten the reader towards new knowledge, or to take what they need from it to help them along. My aim and goal is to build around the topic of positive tips towards better mental health as this is my specialized education I have received from Mohawk!

Kat Cullen

Broadcasting – Television and Communications Media, ‘10

What does your Mohawk education mean to you?

Why did you become an Alumni Blogger?

I’m proud of my Mohawk background. I took Business Administration at Mohawk 1987-1990 and that helped me

I became an Alumni Blogger because I am so proud of my Mohawk education and so grateful for where it has gotten

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alumni online me today. I have the best job in the world (I literally just booked television segments at a shooting range, fencing club and water polo match right before I starting filling out this questionnaire) and I owe it all to Mohawk. As a proud alum, I feel like it is the least I can do to help spread the word about this incredible institution.

Who/what influences what you write about? /How do you choose your blog topics?

Unfortunately for the alumni house, and much to Meaghan Drury’s chagrin, my life is so busy and crazy I often lose track of time and submit my blog topics late. (Sorry Meaghan!)

Usually I write about whatever I did that day, or (if I am really on the ball) I write about what I did the day before! That is the truly great thing about my industry, there is always something exciting going on that I can write about.

Breanna Ehman

Business Financial Services, ‘10 Why did you become an Alumni Blogger?

I became an Alumni Blogger to stay connected with

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Mohawk College. Life is so fast paced and dynamic. I believe it is so important to remember where you came from, to give back and to share your thoughts and life experiences with others.

The Alumni Blog allows me to do all of the above.

Who/what influences what you write about? /How do you choose your blog topics?

I find myself writing about topics that I believe will add value to those reading my blog. If I can connect with at least one reader, I have accomplished what I have set out to accomplish. My blogs typically reflect the topics that are close to my heart and that are present in my everyday life.

awards & honours

Congratulations to Linda Marshall ‘82, Mohawk grad and 2010 Alumni of Distinction recipient, for being awarded the 2014 United Way Stephen F. Varey Award, that recognizes individuals whose long-term volunteerism has contributed to advancing the mission of

The Business Link Media Group celebrated the achievements of Hamilton and Halton’s top 40 Under Forty winners on November 7, 2013 at Carmen’s Banquet Centre in Hamilton.

Mohawk College grads that were honoured with this award include: • Ryan Barichello ’04 – LinxSmart • Carina Cicero ’10 – The Oakville Chamber of Commerce • Kevin Huynh ’10 – Loewen Group Mortgages • Len Kamerman ‘03 – Hero Technical Solutions Inc. • Mindy Tweedle ’02 – Tweedle Productions Inc. Congratulations to Mohawk grad and last year’s Alumni of Distinction recipient, Narine Dat Sookram ’13 on receiving the Governor General’s Caring Canadian Award and the TIAW World of Difference 100 Award for Championing Women Economic Empowerment.

awards & honour

the United Way. This past Fall Mohawk students and recent graduates from the Advertising program took home a number of awards from 2 annual award competitions.

Five students from Mohawk’s Advertising program won Silver in the 2013 Advertising & Design Club of Canada student competition.

Congratulations to Mohawk students: Silver: Edward Mindy Tweedle Balli (History Channel), Silver: Justin Turco ‘13 and Curtis Denomme ‘13 (Sail), Silver: Emmanuel Torres ‘13 and Mikhail Ferrara (Afterbite). Honourable mentions to finalists: Sarah Quinto ‘13 and Justin Turco ‘13 (Duracell).

The Advertising & Design Club of Canada is a non-profit group dedicated to encouraging excellence in Canadian advertising and design.

Mohawk Advertising students won gold, silver and bronze in the student award competition at the 2013 Canadian Marketing Association Awards. This is the seventh consecutive year Mohawk has won gold and to date they have won 31 CMA awards overall.

Gold: Marco Buchar, Scott Rodgerson, Erikson Melton, Shawn Walton (coached by Jef Petrossi) Silver: Osman Rahmani, Eric Williamson (coached by Jef Petrossi) Bronze: Desiree Boucher, Samantha Mujdrica, and Andria Ramelli (coached by Janice Warren)

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hello

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keeping

Douglas Millard | Electronics Engineering Technician, 1971 I recently retired from Dofasco after 42 years with the company.

Robert Houghton | Broadcasting – Television & Communications Media, 1981 After teaching History and IT/Media for the past few years, my latest challenge is in teaching Special Education in a quiet rural community in Surrey.

Roderick G. Carr | Instrumentation Engineering Technician – Industrial, 1982 I retired from USSC (formally Stelco) Nanticoke plant after 31 years of service in the Instrumentation Department. I am currently working at Bruce Nuclear plant as an Instrument Tech on a contract basis.

Nicholas J. Corrado | Business Administration, 1982 I am married with two girls and one boy. My two girls are training with the Tiger Cats Junior Cheerleader Squad.

Gail Taylor | Advertising & Communication Media, 1982 I credit the Advertising co-op program for my ability to secure a job in my field.

Immediately after graduating, I secured a position as a Marketing Coordinator in the shopping centre sector. After working for two different developers as both a Marketing Director and later as the Director of Marketing responsible for the advertising and marketing activities for 14 properties across Canada, I opened my own boutique marketing and advertising agency, specializing in shopping centres. 2014 marks my company’s 20th Anniversary!

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design many green homes and subdivisions as an architect.

I have a wonderful 10-year-old daughter and a fantastic wife from Lima Peru. I am a scuba diving addict, and generally my mandate is to enjoy our life.

Cameron Tilbury | Radio

Broadcasting, 1984

After living in England for 10 years, I moved to Nashville, Tennessee two years ago, and formed MapleStar Music & Media, an international publicity company. We now have an office in Canada, as well as our office here in Nashville. Our clients are from the UK, Canada and USA. I remarried just over a year ago. My wife, Jo-Leah is a songwriter/singer/producer.

Linda Thorn (nee: Martelli) | Radio Broadcasting, 1986 My career in Radio has spanned 25 years and I’ve worked in many facets of the industry, hosting morning shows in Hamilton and Kitchener. I’ve been onair in Toronto, St. Catharines and Brantford. Currently I’m the daytime host (9-2) for Hamilton’s Country station KX 94-7. I’m also a freelance voice over talent and have interviewed several artists over the years from Tim McGraw and Keith Urban to Shania Twain, Rascal Flatts and even Kevin Costner! My passion for what I do gives me the drive to achieve.

Penny Corbyn | Medical Laboratory Technology, 1987

I moved to Kitchener to work at the Grand River Hospital in the Core Lab.

David Rutka | Business Administration, 1988

David A. Greig | Architectural Technology, 1983 I continued architecture training at Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand and graduated as an architect in 1989. I followed my passion in passive solar homes (reinforced at Mohawk) and became NZ director of the International Building Biology and Ecology Institute in 2000. I teach ecoarchitecture around New Zealand as well as globally, and

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Treasurer of the Mississauga Fire Fighters Association.

Tracey Lynn Richardson | Broadcasting, 1989 I recently re-married, to Mohawk’s Graphic Design program coordinator Phil Richardson in May 2013. I have two amazing

keeping in touch boys, Connor (17) and Mitchell (14), and two wonderful stepchildren, Ben (26) and Jessica (22) who both are graduates of Mohawk College. We live in the beautiful valley of Dundas. I have been working at the college since I graduated in ‘89 (took time to raise my kids from ‘97‘03) and returned to Mohawk because I love helping students. I was sad to see the Brantford Elgin campus close in May 2013 as I spent almost 10 years at that campus and is where I met my true love.

Rebecca Graham-Rheault | Travel & Tourism, 1990 Incumbent at Christ Church - Anglican, in The Pas, MB, since 2010. Currently working toward a DMin-Preaching.

Christopher R. Knowles | Computer System Technology, 1990 I’ve been Director of I.T. at Redeemer University College for 20 years. I’m stepping down to follow some of my other interests. I am in the process of building my business in Guitar repair. Check out my website at http://www.ckcustomguitars.ca

Brigette J. Quinn | Nursing, 1992

I graduated from the Mohawk Nursing program in 1992.

I left Ontario almost immediately after graduation due to lack of opportunity at the time. My 22 year career in the US and Canada yielded me many great clinical, educational and administrative experiences. I often reflect upon the excellent education I received at Mohawk. Now, I have a MS from University of Washington and work primarily as a nurse educator in an ADN program (Whatcom Community College), and BSN program (Vancouver Island University) and an RN-MSN program online (University of Arizona).

However, I’m a firm believer in continuing clinical practice for educators and also work as a PACU clinical RN at University of Washington in Seattle. This summer, I will begin curriculum consulting for University of Arizona and found an excellent supporting article by Way & MacNeil (2007). This find caused me to reflect favorably upon some of the great instructors from which I had the privilege of learning how to be a nurse. I live in the Pacific Northwest, between Seattle and Vancouver Island, but hope to visit Ontario sometime later in the year.

Laura Dockray | Law Clerk, 1995

In 2012, I completed my undergrad degree at McMaster University and was then accepted at Brock University in the Teacher Education program. I completed that degree on April 27, 2013 and am now a certified teacher.

Julie Pollock | Recreation Leadership, 1997 I was recently hired in a new position for the Recreation Therapy program. I have just completed my 6-month probation and happy to say that I am now a permanent employee with Mohawk College. This job is a perfect fit for me to use my skills that I learned in my program and the contacts I have made in the community with the various positions I held in the field.

John W. Lane | Architectural Technology, 1998 I was born and raised in Hamilton. I am an accredited Architectural Technologist in the province of Ontario and have been a Building Official since 1988 when I began my career as a municipal Building Inspector and By-law Officer. After 12 years of field experience, I was promoted to the position of Manager of Building Inspections in the City of Hamilton Building Services Division, which I currently hold today. I am certified by the Ontario Building Officials Association and am fully qualified pursuant to Section 2.16 of the Ontario Building Code as a Supervisor/Manager. As an approved Facilitator with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, I have delivered various Ministry courses across the province.

A longstanding Executive Director, (Treasurer), of the Ontario Association of Property Standards Officers I volunteer as an Instructor in the OAPSO certification program. For over 23 years I have remained active at Mohawk College by teaching a wide variety of building construction related courses as part of the Residential Design Certificate Program in the Continuing Education Department. I am also chair of the Mohawk College Architectural Advisory Committee. I am married to my wonderful wife, Joanne. We have many hobbies, but attending as many local fall fairs as possible and showing Clydesdale horses is our favourite.

Sheila Galhardo Cruz | Journalism – Broadcasting, 2006 I am currently an Occasional Teacher at the Waterloo Catholic District School Board teaching grades 7-12. I also will be getting married this year on July 26 to fellow former Mohawk College student, Nathaniel Green.

Vanessa Emrich | Applied Music, 2006

In June of 2015 I will marry the love of my life! I have been teaching private voice and piano lessons for 11 years and I love my job!

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keeping in touch Jessica Combate | Graphic Design Production – Creative, 2007 I’ve been working with Hamilton Health Sciences for six years, since graduating. I started as a Forms Designer and now am an Intermediate Graphic Designer, mainly in print and corporate communications, developing marketing and branding projects from start to finish. Some projects I’ve worked on that would be visible to the greater community include the BRIGHT RUN identity and the Lung DAP and Esophagaus DAP logos for St. Joseph’s.

John Hartig | Webmaster, 2008

Since graduating from Mohawk College with my Webmaster’s Certificate, I’ve launched 20 new web sites. I found that my web design skills are well complemented by my photography. I’m especially interested in wedding photography and family and small business web design. I’ve recently come back from a Panama Canal Cruise, the photos and write-up of which can be found on www.hartigtravelogue.info

Clara Laratta-Gerrard | Teaching the Adult Learner, 2009 I have had so many great new things going on in my life lately it’s such an exciting time! In 2013, I opened a new life casting sculpture business, Clarelegance - Sculptures of Beauty and Love. I had an interview with Cobalt Connects which you can find at http://bit.ly/Clara-LarattaGerrard if you want to read more about what’s been going on! I was also recently honoured, winning the 2014 Readers Choice Award for Best Local Artist! I am so excited about opening this company and being able to meet and work with people in the community, celebrating special events and people in their lives. It’s so gratifying to be able to make something for someone that commemorates the love they share for someone else.

Michael Willoughby | Educational Assistant, 2009

I’m currently working as a support worker aide for Rygiel Supports For Community Living as of April 2012. The skills I learned at Mohawk College are fundamental to my career.

Shout out to all of my fellow Educational Assistant alumni from class of 2009!

Stephen W. Beck | Civil Engineering

Technology, 2011

I was hired by Hatch in 2011. Since then I have been promoted to Intermediate Structural Designer, have assisted with the testing of a new CAD software, have worked as a lead modeler and have won a quality award for my work on the Newmont Mercury Abatement Project.

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Brenda Crocco | Early Childhood Education, 2012

After several attempts at supply work I am still looking for a permanent Early Childhood Educator position. My goal is a school board position.

James Gunner | Applied Music, 2012

I am currently working on recording my first solo album.

You can follow my music journey at my Facebook page: www.facebook.com/JamesDanielMusician

Natalie Clewley | Public

Relations, 2013

I just graduated from a post-grad program (Public Relations) at Mohawk College. I am proud to have graduated from this college. I am actively job searching and have had several interviews to date.

Protection of Personal Information From time to time, you may be contacted either by mail, e-mail or phone by one of our services and benefits partners regarding one of our programs.

Mohawk College is proud of its relationship with a number of trusted partners and service providers who have an established record of treating personal information with care and provide valuable services and benefits to our alumni. We appreciate you taking the time to learn about the programs and the latest offers available. We want to let you know that at no time will your name or contact information be shared with anyone not specifically authorized by Alumni Relations. Mohawk College respects the privacy of its alumni and the sensitivity of personal information. All of our partners sign strict confidentiality agreements with us prior to receiving any contact information.

Should you wish to not be contacted about services and benefit programs, JUST CALL 905-575-2258 or e-mail alumni@mohawkcollege.ca and tell us you wish to OPT OUT of affinity marketing plans.

Thank you for your interest and your participation in the services and benefits provided by the Alumni Association and the Office of Alumni Relations.

looking back

looking back on

lawrence “skip” stanbridge Making The Community a Better Place!

By Amber Richardson ‘13 It’s not every day that a community is able to experience someone who makes such a positive impact on the lives of others as Lawrence Stanbridge did. Lawrence “Skip” Stanbridge was truly one of a kind, he was consistently standing up for what he believed in, and uplifted the lives he touched. On Tuesday, October 29, 2013 Mohawk lost a beloved member of the community, Skip Stanbridge lost his fight to heart disease. Loved ones surrounded Skip at the time of his death, including his sons Dean and David whom he was always very proud of. Skip is predeceased by his beloved wife of 52 years, Elsie (Dean) Stanbridge.

Skip’s hometown was Brantford Ontario, both he and his wife grew up there and he was proud to represent Mohawk College in his community, he saw the importance of what the college had to offer the city and supported that. Skip also had a special place in his heart for the Recreation and Leisure Department, ever since the beginning of his relationship with the College in 1969. Skip taught a variety of recreation and leisure classes throughout his career at Mohawk.

In the mid 80’s, Skip became the Dean of Community Studies and Healthcare, then later, the Acting Vice President of Academics and then finally the Associate Vice President of Brant Campuses. Everyone that came into contact with Skip will remember what kind of man he was, Kelvin Lee, one of Skip’s former students as well as former Mountaineers Volleyball Coach says “Skip was one of a kind, tough but fair, he had a unique teaching style. He engaged his students and motivated them to

succeed, everyone paid attention in Skip’s classes, he would know if you didn’t.”

Skip was a mentor to many of the students he taught over the years, he was both kind and fair in everything that he took on. Mary Hrycay was one of Skip’s former students and also worked with Skip throughout his career, Mary remembers Skip by saying, “to me he was a mentor, a friend, a man of integrity and an individual with a great deal of passion and respect for his work, his students, his staff and his colleagues.”

Skip had an open-door policy and was always willing to listen to any request that his staff may have had, he valued each relationship that he had with his co-workers and was always there to help when things needed to get done.

When taking a look back at Skip’s career, Carolyn Gray, whom worked with Skip throughout his time at Mohawk, says, “Those of us who worked with Skip at Mohawk College respected him for his honesty, integrity, his great sense of humor, and his care. He was an encouraging leader who made a difference in the lives of students, faculty and staff. All of us who had the privilege of working with him have great memories of his work ethic and involvement.”

When Skip was away from the campus he would spend his time with family. Betty Chou, Skip’s long time secretary and right-hand says, “Anyone who knew Skip for even a short while, knew he was a family man, a loving husband and a proud father.” Betty goes on to say, “It was really hard to say goodbye, Skip had such a big heart and always did so much. He was able to uplift people during their most

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looking back challenging of times, he was truly a positive force within the community.”

Skip made a difference anywhere he went, he had a passion for purebred dogs, specifically Belgian Shepard Dogs. Skip was a world-renowned canine competition judge; he often travelled to judge different competitions and was very well respected in the industry.

He also bred Shepard dogs at the beginning of his career.

Skip retired after being with Mohawk for over 26 years in 1995, even though he was retired he was always an active member of the Mohawk community, he stayed involved with Mohawk events, and kept in touch with

Curious about upgrading your diploma?

At Charles Sturt University we believe curiosity and passion lead us all on the path to greater knowledge.

If you have an Early Childhood Education (ECE) diploma from Mohawk or another Ontario Community College, we have a number of programs that will get you into a classroom sooner than you might think possible. Our flexible programs can be studied full-time or part-time, fitting into your current life commitments.

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For more information about this program, call (905) 333 4955 or visit www.charlessturt.ca

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his former staff and students. During Skip’s retirement speech he stated that out of all the wonderful memories of Mohawk College he will always remember his time in the classroom the most, he really valued teaching his students and making a difference in their lives. At the time of Skip’s retirement he left Mohawk with a message he hoped would never be forgotten, he said “we are here for the purpose of learning, and we are here to help young people move on to learn, and to make this country, the province, and the community a better place”. Mohawk thanks Skip for all of his loyal years to the College, he is gone but will not be forgotten.

calendar of events

May

3

Planting Our Roots – Confederation Park (near Hutch’s) – 10am to 12pm / FREE EVENT / Register online (guests welcome) – please visit alumni.mohawkcollege.ca for more details

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10th Annual Mohawk College Alumni Golf Classic- Flamborough Hills Golf and Country Club/ 8am Shotgun Start - $170 per person/$680 per team / Register online at alumni.mohawkcollege.ca / Early Bird Special (Receive $10 off when you register by May 9, 2014)

August

TBD

Summer Patio Party - MYAC (Mohawk Young Alumni Connection) – please visit alumni.mohawkcollege.ca for more details

October 3

Media Alumni Panel –10am to 12pm – McIntyre Theatre –Free Event – everyone welcome - for more information, please visit alumni.mohawkcollege.ca

June June

2

3

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Calgary Regional Alumni Event – After Work Patio Social & BBQ, The Bow River Barley Mill / 5:30pm to 7:30pm / Cost $15 (18+ guests welcome). Mohawk has partnered with three other colleges for this event (Durham, Lambton and St. Lawrence) / Register online at alumni.mohawkcollege.ca Edmonton Regional Alumni Event – Brewery Tour & Tasting, Yellowhead Brewing Company 6pm to 8pm / Cost $15 (guests are welcome) Mohawk has partnered with three other colleges for this event (Durham, Lambton and St. Lawrence) / Register online at alumni. mohawkcollege.ca

Register online for all events at alumni.mohawkcollege.ca Please visit alumni.mohawkcollege.ca for up-to-date events and activities If you have any questions, please contact us at 905-575-2258 or alumni@mohawkcollege.ca

Spring 2014 Convocation Ceremonies

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