Mohawk College Alumni In Touch Magazine - Spring 2015

Spring ‘15

touch For Alumni & Friends of Mohawk College

Shaun Iles

From High School Dropout to International Expert on Teaching Technologies

alumni.mohawkcollege.ca

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this

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

Fall 2014

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Spring ‘15

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For Alumni & Friends of Mohawk College

feature

For Alumni & Friends of Mohawk College

16 Shaun Iles

Design and Production Sofa Communicatons Photography Meaghan Drury, Sean Coffey, Kelly Dunham, Courtney Warren, Brittany Sprung, Skyway Lawn Equipment Ltd., Terra Nova Images, Lorraine Young Contributors Gary Nelson, Wendy Makey, Jay Robb, Sean Coffey, Meaghan Drury, Shaun Iles, Kristy Ryerson, Gena Dureault, Bob Paquette, Brenda Hutton, Athanasia Guerra, Earl Clarke, Jin Kim, Rajeev Bhatia, Harin Dalal, Shan Li, Kat Cullen, Samantha Hoover, Lorraine Young, Heidi Burgess, Glenn Burgess Editorial Advisory Board Ron McKerlie – President, Mohawk College Foundation, Wendy Makey – Director, Alumni Relations, Meaghan Drury – Communications Coordinator, Kristy Ryerson – Alumni Assistant, Kelly Dunham – Alumni Services Coordinator, Michele Daigle - Data Assistant 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.

Prefer to receive the InTouch magazine to your inbox instead of your mailbox? Visit mohawkcolllege.ca/alumni-magazine

From High School Dropout to International Expert on Teaching Technologies

Shaun Iles

From High School Dropout to International Expert on Teaching Technologies Publication Mail Agreement 40065780

alumni.mohawkcollege.ca

alumni news 20 Alumni Spotlight: Daniel Clark,

Andre Bisson, & Brad James 24 First Responder: The Inner Battle Two Television Graduates Shed Light

on PTSD 28 Alumni Spotlight: Heidi &

Glenn Burgess

in every issue 5

Welcoming Words

10 Alumni Events - Photo Collage 26 Awards & Honours 30 Keeping In Touch 34 Calendar of Events

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Friday, May 29th Flamborough Hills Golf & Country Club 8am shotgun $170/ golfer

- Early Bird Pricing register by Friday, May 8th at 4pm & save $10/golfer mohawkcollege.ca/alumnigolf

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welcoming words

who’s your everyday hero?

Ron McKerlie, President – Mohawk College & Mohawk College Foundation Mohawk has launched a campaign to celebrate ordinary people

From the moment we first opened our doors nearly 50 years

who quietly make an extraordinary difference in our community.

ago, Hamilton has been very good to our students, alumni and

We’re asking community leaders to identify their everyday

college. Our community partners help train our students, employ

heroes. With more than 100,000 alumni, we expect more than

our graduates and invest in our programs. We are blessed to call

a few community leaders and everyday heroes will be proud

Hamilton our home.

Mohawk graduates.

So we’re stepping up for our community and will do our part as

We kicked off our campaign with a video that tells the story

both Hamilton’s community college and one of our city’s largest

of four Mohawk alumni and showcases how they’re an

employers.

integral part of the fabric of our community. You can watch

We’re going to talk with our 1,200 international students who

the video and read profiles of everyday heroes at:

come to Mohawk and Hamilton from more than 70 countries.

everydayheroes.mohawkcollege.ca.

We’re going to talk with the hundreds of foreign trained

My everyday hero is Vanh Kalong. I first shared Vanh’s story

professionals in our health and technology bridging programs.

during a presentation to Hamilton City Council and was honoured to have her join us in Council Chambers.

As a teenager, Vanh spent five long years in a refugee camp where every day was a struggle to survive with 10,000 other people. There was never enough food or clean water. Vanh never went to school.

In August of 1985, Vanh and her family arrived in Canada and made their way to Hamilton. Vanh was 17 years old when she started her first day of Grade 9 at Sir John A. Macdonald

We’re going to talk with employers who are desperate to hire highly skilled and experienced workers and want a workforce that reflects the diversity of their customers and the people they serve.

Our Welcoming Communities project will not be an academic exercise. Like a Mohawk education, we’re going to come up with an action plan that’s practical and gets results.

We want to import and develop the talent who will help companies export made-in-Hamilton goods and services around

Secondary School in Hamilton. After completing high school,

the world.

Vanh went to Mohawk and became the first in her family to earn

This project is more than a Mohawk priority. It’s also a personal

a post-secondary education.

mission. I’ve had the good fortune to travel to every continent

Today, Vanh owns My Thai restaurants in downtown Hamilton,

and I’ve visited nearly 70 countries. As Chair of World Vision

Burlington, Brantford, Ancaster and Waterloo. She employs 70 people and gives back to our community.

Bringing more people like Vanh to Mohawk and Hamilton is the focus of a second major project we’re carrying out this year. Our goal is to build a more welcoming college and community for newcomers.

Hamilton is a city that was built by immigrants and newcomers and they will remain the lifeblood of our community.

Canada, I’ve met many remarkable people, like Vanh, who are living in unimaginable conditions and would give anything to be a part of our community.

My travels have reaffirmed the value and power of diversity. I return home every time with fresh perspectives, new ideas, and an even deeper appreciation for living and working in the best community, in the best province, in the best country in the world.

We have much to offer and much to gain by welcoming the

Immigration is expected to account for all the future growth of

world to Mohawk and Hamilton.

Hamilton’s population, workforce and enrolment at Mohawk.

Our goal is to convince more people like Vanh to study at

Yet Hamilton was one of 13 Canadian cities to get a “D” in

Mohawk and then to make Hamilton their home as future-ready

a Conference Board of Canada report card about attracting

graduates.

newcomers.

We’d love to have you be part of our Welcoming Communities

When our students score a D, Mohawk offers a helping hand.

conversation. Please send your ideas, insights and experiences

Our response is no different when it’s the community.

to me at president@mohawkcollege.ca.

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2014-2015 mohawk college

alumni association advisory council

DAVID BRALEY

ATHLETIC & RECREATION CENTRE

Gary Nelson, Chair

A special offer for our alumni

Business Administration, 1985

Marcine Blake, Vice-Chair

Your membership gives you access to:

Recreation Leadership, 1988

Dr. Sandra Ireland, Past Chair

• Cardio equipment (Treadmills, Cycles, Elliptical & Rowing Machines)

Nursing, 1990

• Indoor walking & running track

Sera Nicosia, Director

• Free weight area with specialized flooring

Nursing, 1981

• Selectorized weights • 15 Large TV screens

Sara Kinnear, Director

• Spin studio with 17 group cycle bicycles

Recreation Leadership, 1989

• Unlimited access to our Group Fitness classes • Open gym & recreational sports

Jody Matheson, Director

• Outdoor basketball & volleyball courts

Advertising, 1994

• Day lockers & change rooms

Alan Griffiths, Director

Annual Membership Fee

$ 420 semester $140

+HST

$35+HST

payable monthly

+HST

Environmental Technician, 2009

Ron Funnell, Director Radio Broadcasting, 1991

Lorenzo Somma, Director

Small Business & Entrepreneurship, 2013

Joanne Brohman, Director Recreation Leadership, 1983

Jay Hayward, Director Business Administration, 1999

Linda Rourke, Director

COME TRY THE CENTRE ON US

Provide the promo code: ALUMNI to try the centre FREE for 2 weeks!

VISIT OUR WEBSITE mohawkcollege.ca/dbarc

Mohawk College | 135 Fennell Ave West, Hamilton, ON L9C 1E9 | 905.575.2744

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Broadcasting – Television & Communications Media, 1990

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

welcoming words

greetings from the alumni council chair Gary Nelson, ‘85 – Business Administration

Well, as my two year term as chair of the

The council has also developed new values, as indicated

Mohawk College Alumni Council draws

below.

to a close, I want to express my deep appreciation for all the hard work of the

Mohawk Alumni Values:

members of the Alumni Council. In addition,

Committed to engage and serve current students & alumni.

let me say what a joy and privilege it has been to lead such a great group of individuals. The council members have worked closely with the Alumni department

The council will use the new mission and value statements to guide it in all future discussions to ensure that we are truly

over these past two years to develop and enhance programs

working towards a stronger, more engaged and active alumni.

and services for all Mohawk alumni and students. The

Please take the time to look at the alumni website, join us

council had full and open discussions around how we

on Facebook, get involved in our Twitter conversations, or

operate as a council, how we can help to improve the alumni

just call us to tell us how we are doing, what you would like

experience and how we can sustain the on-going work of

to see going forward or how we can improve. The council is

the Mohawk College Office of Alumni Relations.

always open to new ideas and suggestions. The important

Over the past few months, the Alumni Council has worked

thing is that you stay connected and become involved with

on developing a new mission statement which better reflects the goals and objectives of the Office of Alumni Relations.

In addition, the new mission follows more closely with the

Mohawk College. The Alumni Association is only as strong as its member support. Over the next few years, alumni engagement is going to be critical to help Mohawk College

mission of Mohawk College.

obtain its goals and continue to grow. Be a part of the future

Mohawk Alumni Mission Statement:

Finally, thank you to everyone for their support over the past

of Mohawk College.

Mohawk College Alumni Association is the catalyst for

two years. I know the council will continue to do great work

creating connections and lifelong success.

on your behalf in the coming years with the new chair.

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welcoming words

we asked you responded Wendy Makey, ‘93 – Director, Alumni Relations In the fall of 2014 Mohawk College

The Perks of Being Alumni!

Alumni circulated an online survey

The overall awareness of alumni member benefit/discount

to graduates in order to evaluate the programs, services, events and activities offered by the Association. As part of the survey we encouraged Alumni to share their ideas and feedback with us so we can effectively respond to the needs and wishes of the membership and build a better Association. Survey participants represented a broad crosssection of alumni from all fields of study. The respondents were comprised of approximately 50/50 male and female with 50% aged 45-64 and 40% in the 25-44 age bracket.

Engagement

programs (ie. CAA, Delta Hotels, Car Rentals and Perkopolis) by respondents was less than 40%. Over 50% were aware of affinity programs like the Bank of Montreal Mastercard, Johnson and Manulife Insurance. Suggestions for additional discount partners included: restaurants, Via Rail, YMCA, Cineplex, airfare and prescription eye wear.

We Value Your Opinion…

When asked for their opinion on Alumni giving including donation priorities and fundraising opportunities offered

An overview of survey results shows that 52% were very engaged to somewhat engaged.

by the Mohawk Alumni Association, the top 3 fundraising priorities for graduates were scholarships, bursaries and program equipment. The preferred mediums for which to

Stay Connected!

contact our graduates seeking donations was via alumni

The Top 3 Means of Keeping Connected:

asking alumni (peer to peer), online giving opportunities or

• Informed enewsletter

email requests for support.

• InTouch magazine

Suggested Priorities for 2015-2017:

• Alumni website Three-quarters of graduates felt the Informed e-newsletter

• career development and employment support

was effective at communicating information and 80% felt

• reunion celebrations

the InTouch magazine was effective.

• pre-graduation engagement opportunities

Grads Spend Most Time On:

• programs for all regardless of location

• Facebook

• mentorship

• YouTube • LinkedIn

Thoughtful responses from our graduates and overall survey

Communication regarding retirement announcements,

results will enable the Alumni Advisory Council and staff

professor profiles, professional development and career

to effectively review current offerings to our members and

opportunities/advice are items graduates would like to hear

position our programs and services for maximum alumni

more about.

engagement. We asked and you responded – thank you for

Grads Attended Events Because Of:

taking the time to share your thoughts and ideas.

Member input is essential for us to continue to meet your Networking

If you did not complete the survey and would like to

Experience unique events

Class reunions Support for Mohawk College

Support for your Alumni Associa@on

Professional Development

Stay Connected!

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needs and build the Association to be the best it can be.

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The top 3 means of keeping connected were through the Informed e-newsletter, the In Touch magazine and the Alumni website. Three-quarters of graduates felt the Informed

share your comments and feedback about Alumni Association activities please send us your feedback via email at alumni@mohawkcollege.ca.

Thank you for your support and continued commitment to Mohawk College

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alumni news

alumni events

Thank you to all the grads, students, friends and family who were able to join us at one of the many events hosted by the

The Art of Career Networking

Alumni Association this past Fall & Winter: • The Art of Career Networking

• Mohawk Night at the TiCats

• Etiquette Dinners

• Pictures with Santa

• Awaken Your Senses and

• Alumni of Distinction

Career Speed Networking • Dress For Success

Awards Dinner • Alumni@Work

To find out about upcoming Alumni events, follow us on Twitter @MohawkAlumni or

Facebook.com/mohawkcollegealumni or visit the Alumni website (alumni.mohawkcollege.ca)

Dress For Success

Pictures with Santa

Alumni@Work

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alumni news Mohawk Night at the TiCats

Homecoming Pub

Media Alumni Panel

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On October 30th, 2014 the Alumni Association honoured and celebrated eight new Alumni of Distinction recipients at an awards dinner in their honour. Congratulations to Ava Green, Bronko Jazvac, Emily Baynes, Anthony Frisina, Ray Adamyk, Sharon Charters, Brent Kinnaird and Paul Armstrong.

Thank you to our sponsors Event Sponsor - Johnson Insurance Recipient and Part Recipient Reception Sponsor – Michelangelo Event & Conference Centre Award Sponsor – Alumni Insurance Services Print Sponsor – Lowe-Martin On October 30th, 2014 Group the Alumni Association honoured and celebrated Entertainment Sponsor – Jostens eight new Alumni of Distinction AV Equipment Sponsor – Mohawk College Faculty of Justice and Wellness Studies recipients at an awards dinner in their Coat honour.

Check Sponsor – Leaderto Frames Congratulations Ava Green, Bronko Jazvac, Emily Baynes, Anthony Frisina, Ray Adamyk, Sharon Charters, Brent Kinnaird and Paul Armstrong.

Thank you to our sponsors Event Sponsor

Recipient and Part Recipient Reception Sponsor

Award Sponsor

Print Sponsor

Entertainment Sponsor

AV Equipment Sponsor Faculty of Justice and Wellness Studies Coat Check Sponsor

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alumni news

@work

alumni

In the last three months, we have connected with over 180 Mohawk College Alumni in programs such as, Architectural Technician, Civil Engineering Technology, Business Accounting, Office Administration - Legal (OA), Human Resources and ECE to name a few. This year’s Alumni@Work corporate coffee break program is off to a great start!

The Alumni@Work program seeks to reach out and thank local businesses/community organizations for hiring Mohawk graduates and being proud Mohawk supporters.

The program is framed around the Office of Alumni Relations and applicable Faculty members bringing refreshments and snacks for an hour of connecting with graduates, at their place of work. Updates about College programming, Alumni events and campus renovations are provided, as an opportunity for graduates to catch-up with past instructors, ask questions about programming and meet colleagues that are fellow alumni of Mohawk College.

The Office of Alumni Relations, joined by Peter Olynyk Professor – Civil Engineering Technology, kicked off 2015 hosting an Alumni@work coffee break for Walters Group Inc., Hamilton division. We spent the morning meeting 25 Mohawk graduates from various programs like Architectural Technician, Business Accounting, Civil Engineering Technology and had an opportunity to share with them how their programs are evolving and what the exciting new changes ahead are for the engineering department at Mohawk. Lance Snively, a 1978, Architectural Technician graduate describes his experience: “The event was very casual and well attended. It was a very informative session about the College, as I have not been there for quite a few years. I liked the fact that I got to see who actually was a Mohawk Grad where I work. I think this is a good venue for coworkers to connect, through a common thread.”

In the middle of January, the Alumni department was kindly welcomed by Gowlings law firm in

downtown Hamilton. Over 80 alumni gathered for a brunch and meet and greet with staff. Jane Cooper, Associate Dean School of Business, Jane Clarke - a Business Professor and Coordinator of the Legal Program, and Phyllis Hostin, Professor Office Adminstration (OA) Legal program proudly accompanied the Alumni staff to meet past students and network with Gowlings staff. When asked what they enjoyed about this event, Jane Clarke responded “I enjoyed seeing all of the (Mohawk) graduates, rekindling friendships and sharing in the fond memories of past students.” Phyllis said, “I enjoyed speaking with our OA Legal Program grads and learning about their careers in the legal field and how they benefitted from the program in general. Many grads advised me as to what their professional development endeavours have been and what they would be pursuing in the future.” Both shared the same sentiment regarding how important it to hold events like this to build community partnerships and thanked those that support Mohawk College.

In February, in conjunction with a presentation from Mohawk’s President, Ron McKerlie to the City of Hamilton’s General Issues Committee, Alumni staff hosted “Mohawk Day at City Hall” coffee break. This event was well attended allowing the Alumni office and Mohawk staff to meet over 70 Mohawk grads. Maria Harrison (nee Demykchuk) a 1998 Architectural Drafting Certificate graduate, shared that she “enjoyed re-connecting with some of my peers who I did not realize at the time attended Mohawk College. It was a great opportunity to meet with staff who work in the Alumni Office and I learned that there were opportunities available to assist/partake in Alumni-related social events. I have many fond memories of my time spent at the College and this event re-ignited my interest to register in some part-time courses this Spring/Fall.”

alumni @ work

Are you interested in an Alumni@Work coffee break? If so, please contact kristy.ryerson@mohawkcollege.ca today!

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alumni news

2014 fall

Convocation Speakers Jay Hayward | Business Administration, 1999 “Graduates, cliché as it may sound, every morning you wake up is the moment you will decide whether you are going to live the life you want to live or not. Each of you has the choice, you choosing Mohawk was a choice, choosing to put in the hard work to be able to graduate today was another. As long as you recognize that you have the choice, you will end up where you want to be.”

Don MacVicar | Industrial Engineering Certificate, 1992 “As you exit through those doors tonight you will be entering the working world with a new vision and new strength and knowledge. You may be challenged on all sides, you may strike out a couple of times and make a few mistakes, but you will have all of the tools that you have learned here at Mohawk to get through all of those challenges.”

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Once you have built your profile on Magnet, the right jobs start filling your inbox. Your profile attracts jobs posted by Magnet’s 1,300 employers directly to you. Concerned about your privacy? Magnet does not disclose personal information without your consent. Magnet is easy, convenient, and reliable. It is free, secure, and protects your privacy.

Magnet was spearheaded by Ryerson University in partnership with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, representing over 60,000 employers.

It counts 24 Ontario colleges and universities, as well as over 75 community and employment-based partners.

Mohawk College invites you to become a part of Magnet. Visit mohawkcollege.magnet.today to sign up.

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alumni

the legacy of education “ ”

remains unspent and invested), As a proud Mohawk College Alum, A man cannot leave a better with the interest funding the two you know first-hand the value of legacy to the world than a awards annually. In doing so, these post-secondary education and the awards will serve students of the impact it has had on your life and well-educated family.

School of Engineering Technology, career path. Today, the drop in Thomas Scott Electronic Computer or Electrical government funding has put the Engineering Programs in perpetuity. Of equal importance, impetus on the College to find other sources of revenue in Professor Chan recognized the importance of priority order to carry on the legacy of top-quality education and equipment and capital needs to ensure that Mohawk has training for students here at Mohawk. An education is not state of the art facilities to foster an enhanced learning a guarantee for success, however there is no doubt that it environment. As such, he allocated a second provision in his provides a gateway of opportunities for those willing to work Will in support of these needs. for them.

Often times, individuals reach out to Mohawk with a keen interest to support education however aren’t necessarily in a position to make a gift today. An alternative to this situation is to explore the option of making a planned gift to Mohawk College like Professor Chan did. This can be accomplished with the assistance of a professional advisor and the support of Mohawk College Foundation staff.

Gifts can be made through a Will, RRSP/RRIF, life insurance or charitable annuity all with varying tax benefits. Often a gift through one of these can help you leave a greater legacy.

No one realized the importance of education better than Heng Choon Chan. Growing up in Singapore and eventually moving to Canada, he attended Montreal’s McGill University. He had a thirst for knowledge and with education as his prime motivator in life, it came as no surprise that he pursued a career in teaching. As a Mohawk College faculty member in Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology for over 27 years, Professor Chan impacted the futures of thousands of students through his guidance, expertise and dedication in an effort to create a launch pad for success in their chosen careers. Sadly, in April of 2010, Heng Choon Chan passed away from cancer. Though his story, and his endearing contributions to Mohawk don’t end there.

The real gift however, is the incredible difference a Mohawk College education makes in the lives of our students, our families and their entire communities made possible from special donors like Professor Chan.

True to his commitment to education, Professor Chan created a very special legacy. Through his Will, he made a provision directing a portion of his estate to support two student awards at Mohawk. This gift was endowed, (capital

For more information on creating an award or leaving a legacy through a planned gift, please contact Gena Dureault, Senior Development Officer at 905-575-2208 or gena.dureault@mohawkcollege.ca

Named Awards at Mohawk Named awards can be created with a minimum gift of $500, annually, in support of scholarships or bursaries.

Disclaimer: The information above is for illustration purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or tax planning advice.

We recommend that you consult with your professional advisor in planning your donation.

How Can I Fund an Award at Mohawk?

1. Current Gifts a. Cash

b. Securities

2. Planned Gift (deferred) a. Bequest

b. Life insurance

c. RRSP/RRIF’s

d. Charitable gift annuities

Each giving vehicle offers a variety of tax advantages.

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feature story

shaun iles

From high school dropout to college professor and international expert on teaching technologies By: Sean Coffey he lives today in 2001. At the time, he was living with his mother in a subsidized housing complex in Oshawa. He’d had enough of his hometown and decided to accept an offer from a friend to join them in Hamilton.

“My mother’s neighbour lent me $20, which I’m sure was a lot for him. It was just enough to get me to Hamilton.”

Shaun Iles dropped out of high school to become a professional snowboarder. He ended up selling snowboards in a mall instead.

Some people would accept that and carry on. Not Shaun, though; he saw where his life was going and decided to change it. That was 12 years ago. Today, Shaun is a rising star in the rapidly changing world of teaching technologies.

He also teaches classes in sociology and sustainability at Mohawk College. Not bad for someone who dropped out of high school.

High school wasn’t easy for Shaun, but it wasn’t the learning he struggled with. “I was bored and getting into trouble. I’m not sure what it was, the teaching methodologies maybe. It just wasn’t for me so I left,” said Shaun, recalling what finally led him to drop out during his last semester of Grade 11.

For a time, Shaun followed his dream. He taught snowboarding and competed in the sport. He even played in a band.

But the fame and fortune never materialized.

Shaun took the first step toward the life

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Two years later, Shaun was selling snowboards at a store in Limeridge Mall when he decided it was time to make a change. He applied to Mohawk College, hoping to get into Early Childhood or Child and Youth Worker. As a last resort he chose General Arts and Science.

“I was rejected from ECE and Child and Youth, but I got into General Arts and Science. It ended up being the best thing that ever happened to me.”

For the first time in his life, Shaun started to take learning seriously. “I’d never finished a book before Mohawk,” he jokes.

He says it was because he met faculty that actually engaged him in learning and made him want to learn more. Faculty like professor and program coordinator Linda Frank, who Shaun credits with making the biggest difference to him during his time at Mohawk. He says, “she really inspired me to reach my full potential.”

And it was Linda, who a few years later while Shaun was finishing his Bachelor of Sociology at McMaster University, who gave Shaun his first teaching gig at Mohawk. It was an unexpected career move, says Shaun, considering he had hated teachers most of his life.

feature story

“I remember my first class. I was holding up the textbook and trembling.”

The class was sociology. Shaun loved it and decided college was where he needed to be.

After McMaster, Shaun went to the University of Toronto where he earned his Masters of Sustainability in Education. It was a necessary step if he wanted to make teaching at Mohawk a full-time thing. It worked. Mohawk hired Shaun as a full-time prof in 2011, and the timing couldn’t have been better.

When he started teaching in 2007, in-class face-to-face teaching was the only way it was done, says Shaun.

“I remember they had a system that allowed instructors to post marks online. Everyone thought that was amazing.”

Health Development and Innovation Centre at Mohawk College. Students use the game to build sustainable communities in a virtual world. It’s the practical application of concepts taught in the class, and students share their successes and failures in an ongoing class discussion on the subject.

Shaun is quick to point out that online learning doesn’t work for everyone. “I’m not going to say that every student likes it. They don’t. There are students that hate it.

But for the most part, students do really well,” he says.

Blended learning makes sense, he says. Students today have a lot going on and being able to control all or part of their learning can help them achieve goals that may have been out of reach a few years ago.

Then came the push for blended learning and adoption of D2L’s online learning management system. “Suddenly all these tools were available to me. I just jumped on it.”

Jeff Rankine works as an Instructional Designer at Mohawk’s Centre for Teaching and Learning, a group tasked with supporting faculty who need to put a portion of their class material online. Jeff has worked closely with Shaun to help him get the most out of the eLearn platform.

“Every semester starts with Shaun coming to me with a new idea on how to use eLearn,” he says. “Shaun is passionate about finding new and better ways to meet his students’ needs.”

One of those ideas was an online simulation game for a sustainability class Shaun teaches.

Shaun created the game with the help of a team of developers from the Mobile Electronic

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feature story Not all faculty are fans of it either, he says. And he can understand why.

“There are a lot of seasoned professors who’ve spent a long time in front of the class. They’re master storytellers who can paint pictures with words and are really comfortable in front of the class. They fear losing that connection, and I can understand that,” he says. “But there are ways of doing that online too.”

Just ask David Wearing, Professor of Humanities and Social Sciences at Mohawk. A 20-year veteran of the college, David was one of those faculty who gave online learning a wide berth. Now he’s well known for his hilarious YouTube videos.

“I’ve been told by those who know me that I can’t call myself a dinosaur anymore,” he jokes. “If that’s true it’s because Shaun encouraged me to take a deep breath and jump in. Shaun works hard to make the online as close to one-on-one as possible. He’s proof that it can be done.”

Every year, Mohawk holds an internal conference called Inspiring Minds. It’s a chance for faculty to share best practices and to learn from each other. It was at the first of these conferences that Shaun presented on the work he was doing with eLearn.

He ended up winning a prize for his presentation. The prize was getting to go to D2L’s annual Fusion conference.

Soon after, he was asked to present at a Desire2Learn conference where his subject matter was so popular they had to move him to a giant ballroom to meet demand.

He’s been a regular at D2L conferences ever since.

He’s even co-presented with Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield.

In 2014, Shaun travelled to Australia for D2L’s international conference. It was there that Shaun was named one of D2L’s Leading Educators for 2014, one of only five in the world to receive the recognition. Prior to that, he had also received D2L’s Desire2EXCEL Innovation Award, which recognizes individuals who display exemplary ingenuity and creativity in empowering students to achieve their academic goals.

And he got a job offer.

“I turned it down,” said Shaun. “I feel a connection (to Mohawk). It’s where I figured myself out. The faculty here really helped me out and I hope that I can one day give that back.”

As for the snowboarding dream, Shaun still hits the slopes every winter.

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Visit mohawkcollege.ca/ce-survey to take the survey and view contest details

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reunions

class of 1974

computer systems technology reunion We had our golf and dinner night October 4th, 2014 at the Nottawasaga Inn & Resort. Some golfed 9 holes because of the cool 9°C weather, others went the distance. The others that were not golfing found the pool, slide and hot tub.

We mingled, laughed and reminisced until dinner, which included a four-course meal of potato cheddar soup under puff pastry, Caesar salad, chicken kiev, and dessert. The rest of the evening was whiled away with a casino night using play Mohawk money. The evening finished off with donated prizes and Mohawk Alumni items being auctioned off.

The next morning, a breakfast buffet was provided for the attendees. It was a grand time for all with promises to do it again.

- Bob Paquette

Brenda Hutton @brendahutton

Out with some @MohawkCollege tourism grads #2009

Front row (l-r): John Dawson, Ellen Kareckas, Tim Kennedy, Chuck Elson, Joan Creer, Jan Karsta (Boos), David Creer, Linda Cole (Tuckett), Dwight McDougall, Ron Casey, Bob Paquette Back row: Gary Halyk, Mark Edmonston,Rick Mackiewicz, Claude Belanger, Fred Vandervliet Want to host your own class or program reunion?

Become a “Class Connector” and contact us about our “Reunion-in-a-box” to assist you in re-connecting with your classmates and planning the event.

class of 2009 tourism & travel reunion

On February 4th, 2015 for the 2nd time since graduating in 2009, members of the Tourism & Travel class have reunited to catch-up and share what they have been up to since leaving Mohawk. This time they met at Squires on Upper James.

8:37 PM - 4 Feb 2015

Those in attendance included: Amanda Pezzaniti - just back from spending 2 years as Marketing and Sales Executive at Tucan Travel in London, UK, Michelle Smid - front desk at the Best Western in Kitchener, Josh Pattison - travel consultant at Flight Centre in Hamilton, Nina Elliot (Bloxam) - store manager at Swatch, Jessie Vanderlubbe (Fuedo) - studying Massage Therapy, Amie Perry - Sales and Event Coordinator at Edge Hospitality Group, Nina Borowicz - working in a law office, as well as three Tourism profs, Brenda Hutton, Pat Schwenk & Julie Aumais If other grads of 2009 are interested in attending next year please contact organizer, Michelle Smid through the Tourism grad facebook page!

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alumni spotlight

music notes

Daniel Clark ’08, Andre Bisson ’06, Brad James ‘07 By: Athanasia Guerra, 2nd-Year Journalism Daniel Clark always loved carpentry and music but never dreamed he would make a career out of both.

In fact, initially he wanted to be an architect but found he couldn’t pick it up quickly enough. Sure he would always get it, but it would be a week later and with the help of tutoring.

“I thought it was pretty frustrating to be tutored in something you’re going to make your profession,” explains Daniel.

That’s when he first thought about making a career out of music, something that had a special place in his life since his first guitar lesson in ’96.

“I’ve always been playing music, it’s always been a part of my life. I never actually thought about making it a career,” explains Daniel.

That’s where the Mohawk College music program became a life-changing part of his career.

After completing the one-year certificate program at the college, he applied for the full three-year music program. It was getting late into the summer and he had yet to hear back from the college, so he started looking into alternate career paths. Always having had an interest in carpentry, he devised a plan to get an apprenticeship and break into the carpentry industry.

Ironically, the acceptance call from Mohawk came in a week after he sorted all of this out, and he couldn’t pass up the opportunity.

“Music is one of those sort of things that you always wonder ‘what if’. And, you know, it’s one of those opportunities that you wouldn’t want to pass up because you never know what could happen, or what would have happened if you’d taken it.”

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So he ditched his backup plan and accepted his offer from Mohawk.

Like most students in the program, his initial plan was to get signed with a record label and go the performance route. But after a year in the program he came to realize that it just wasn’t for him.

“I found that your success in the music industry is determined by somebody else thinking that you’re good enough, or you have the right look or sound. So not that starting my own business is any easier, but I thought that it was calculated in a sense that I could receive direct benefit for the work that I put into it, and my success was not determined by anything else.”

After graduating in 2011, Daniel spent a year working at the college as the president of the Students’ Association and took a course in small business, which gave him the business knowledge he was lacking and formed what would be his company’s business plan.

He then took a one-year course to get his certificate as a luthier: a maker of stringed instruments.

“I liked the building aspect because you’re creating something from nothing. You literally start with rough planks of wood and you turn it into a guitar, it’s a really cool feeling.”

Daniel now owns Cithara Guitars, a successful company where he gets to combine all his interests and passions, doing repairs, building custom guitars, and running a business.

alumni spotlight Daniel has a beautiful shop and showroom that he built and works from in a garage beside his house in Orangeville, Ontario. He hopes to one

how I would have done it, or if I could have. It would’ve been a lot harder for sure.”

Andre also uses the connections he has at Mohawk to hire musicians to play with him at gigs, knowing that they have the education and work ethic that he needs.

Daniel became friends with country singer Brad James after meeting at various music events.

day expand and move to a busier location.

Cithara Guitars has also led Daniel to relationships with other graduates from the Mohawk music program.

Daniel met Andre Bisson at a college event and now takes care of all of his guitar repair needs.

Andre graduated from Mohawk in 2006 and entered the real world with the goal of performing music and nothing else.

Having talent and a good stage presence is mistakenly seen as the only requirement to become a successful performer.

Andre explains that although passion and talent is incredibly important, he wouldn’t be where he is without the education aspect he gained at Mohawk.

“I needed the education in music. I knew how to play, but learning how to write the music out is such a big part of how I run things now. If I didn’t have the education I don’t know

Brad graduated from Music at Mohawk in 2007 and, like Andre, had the post graduation plan of just going out and performing as much as possible. In an industry where getting a job is more unorthodox than most, there’s only so much you can do in terms of securing a job after graduation. It’s all about being passionate and believing in what you do, and with Mohawk as a “great foundation in which to build from,” Brad finds himself in a career he adores with no regrets.

Brad also uses Cithara Guitars for all of his repair needs, and Daniel explains, “When he needs me, I’m there.”

Whether or not they have found themselves where they planned to be, all three musicians agree that everything worked out for the best and that they would never have made it where they are without Mohawk College.

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EMP 2.0 Click here to read the Plan

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around campus

global citizens

What does it mean to be a “Global Citizen” On Thursday, February 12, 2015 a panel of Mohawk Alumni International grads returned to Mohawk to discuss the theme of “Global Citizenship.” We asked a few International grads what “Being a Global Citizen” means to them…

Earl Clarke | Chemical Engineering Technology, 2004 A good global citizen is someone who identifies with being part of an emerging world community and whose actions contribute to building this community’s values and practices.

As a global citizen I am proud to be a world vision child sponsor for Hecen Ould Moulaye in Mauritania and the sponsor for the Earl Clarke Alumni of Distinction Award here at Mohawk College.

Jin Kim | Computer Systems Technology - Network Engineering and Security Analyst Advanced, 2013 My understanding of a good global citizen is the person who is familiar with multiculturalism.

Country is no more than the name of territory these days.

As the world is connected well by internet and developed transportation, you must try to learn other cultures because you will meet them soon for sure.

Rajeev Bhatia | International Business Management, 2013 I think a good global citizen should have all these qualities: • has an understanding of how the world works economically, politically, socially, culturally, technologically, and environmentally; • Global citizens are willing to help and cooperate with others.

• Global citizens have their own ideas and express them, but they are open to changing them if they are proven wrong.

• Global citizens believe that all people are equal. They do not think of some groups or individuals as superior or inferior to others.

Shan Li | Electrical Engineering Technology – Control, 2012 A good Global Citizen means you are an ambassador for your country. Be respectful and friendly to any other fellows all over the world. Meanwhile you have the responsibility of promoting your own country to everyone else to let them know your country better.

Harin Dalal | Health, Wellness and Fitness (Coop), 2014 For me, the term ‘Global Citizen’ is a combination of my core values of Empathy, Care and Respect towards everyone which knows no geographical, religious or racial bounds.

Historically speaking Canada is a ‘Cultural Mosaic’, where citizens coexist in a multicultural society showcasing global citizens on day to day basis who celebrate, “Unity in Diversity”. Being a good global citizen creates a sense of international cooperation on all levels, which unites everyone and makes our world a better and safer place to live in. As Mother Teresa famously quoted, “It’s not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving”.

Do you consider yourself a “Global Citizen?” What does it mean to you?

Share your photos and tell us on Twitter & Instagram @MohawkAlumni with #MCGlobalCitizen or on the Mohawk College Alumni LinkedIn group & Facebook pages

• Global citizens are curious and want to learn more about the world.

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alumni spotlight

first responder: the inner battle

Two Television Graduates Shed Light on PTSD

“

career, Dave has met many Most readers are probably When you are in that moment, that of Hamilton’s finest police aware of what post-traumatic if I do not kill this human being he is officers, EMS workers and stress disorder is. What may firefighters. After the widelynot be as widely known is going to kill me… It’s life changing. publicized suicides of two that the rate of PTSD in the Simon, Former Toronto Police Sergeant local police officers, Dave Canadian Forces has more felt he needed to join to the than doubled since 2002.

PTSD conversation and do what he could to help other 500 American police officers have committed suicide in officers struggling with their own inner battles. the last seven years and many more cases have gone unreported or filed as “accidental firearm discharge” so that the officer can still be buried honourably.

Kat Cullen graduated in While these stats are not specific to first responders on 2010 at the top home soil, police work is often referred to as ‘civilian of her class, as combat’ and it is believed that they face a similar risk the gold andy of developing PTSD as soldiers overseas. The lack award recipient of statistics specific to first responders, suggests that and the Mohawk cases of PTSD in this area are not getting the level of Students’ recognition and attention that is required. While some Association help might be available, the stigma associated with PTSD president. Her often acts as a barrier for police officers, EMS workers and organizational firefighters who are seeking the help, training and support skills and necessary to diagnose and treat PTSD before it becomes experience as a a larger issue. If PTSD is left undiagnosed and untreated television producer made her an ideal partner for Dave in it can lead to severe aggression, the inability to fulfill his mission to spread the word through a thoughtful and ones duties, dismissal from the force and, in a worst case powerful documentary. Kat is a skilled producer and host scenario, suicide. and is thrilled to use her talents to support this immensely Two Mohawk graduates are doing their part to shed light emotional project. on this horrendous injustice the only way they know how.

The goal for this video is to highlight the ongoing stigma Television broadcasting alumni David Mydlo and Kat for first responders dealing with mental health issues, and Cullen have begun work on an insightful documentary to help people identify and understand mental health delving into the diagnosis and treatment of PTSD, the issues in the future. The hope is to equip family members terrible stigma attached to mental illness, and the support and friends of those suffering from PTSD with the tools and training available to first responders. necessary to identify the symptoms and the confidence to seek out help.

Dave Mydlo In the very first interview conducted for this documentary, graduated in 2004 a former Toronto Police Sergeant shared three and has worked heartbreaking stories of death, danger and violence. Any in television one of them was enough to cause a serious emotional broadcasting for over blow and this man had endured all three in a short span 15 years. As a news of time. Simon describes PTSD as a bathtub. “You witness cameraman, Dave an incident and a few drops of water go in, a hand to has been to more than his fair share of gruesome crime hand altercation where you have to make a life and scenes, traffic accidents and fatalities. Throughout his

”

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alumni spotlight

death decision a few more drops, the death of a child you could not save and a bucket load gets dumped on you. Eventually the water level creeps up until it overflows.” It is not one incident that pushes you over the edge, it is the constant flow filling the tub that eventually becomes too much to take if not properly dealt with.

Upon completion, the documentary will be entered in film festivals all over the country. The production team has recently firmed up a deal with CHCH Television for regional broadcast rights, which will give 92% of Ontario households the chance to tune in. Supervising producer Kat Cullen hopes that people see, share and talk about the documentary as much as possible. “It is our belief that the more people see it, the more people will talk about it and talking about it can be the first step in breaking down the walls and the stigma of PTSD.” Our first responders put their lives on the line every day to protect us and save the lives of complete strangers. This documentary hopes to encourage all of us to stand by our first responders and fight to make sure they get the help and support they need.

Please, join the conversation and do what you can to help support this project by visiting www.gofundme.com/theinnerbattle. **Post-traumatic stress disorder: (PTSD) may develop after a person is exposed to one or more traumatic events, such as sexual assault, warfare, `serious injury, or threats of imminent death. People who experience assault-based trauma are more likely to develop PTSD. Symptoms include vivid memories/flashbacks, feelings of aggression, anger, anxiety, irritation, depression, a sense of danger or panic, difficulty sleeping, difficulty relating to family members or friends and feeling emotionally cut off from others.**

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awards & honours

jillianne king-goddard

By: Samantha Hoover, 1st Year Journalism When first-year Mohawk College journalism student, Jillianne King-Goddard, won the prestigious Michael Monty Scholarship from the Ontario Association of Broadcasters on Monday, March 2nd, it was a proud moment – but it also represented a victory in her struggle against a hidden hardship.

In addition to being one of the most talented and hard-working students in the journalism program, Jillianne has also battled mental illness.

Jillianne was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder (with anxiety/ dissociative behaviours) in 2011 after being admitted into a psychiatric unit for suicidal tendencies.

Jillianne King-Goddard accepting the Michael Monty Scholarship at OAB Career Day, (From left to right, Doug Kirk, Jillianne King-Goddard, and Jim Carr.)

Day. She won the Michael Monty Scholarship in recognition of her academic excellence and extensive volunteer work.

“I’m very humbled because I know it’s such a big honour,” says Jillianne. “I know there are many other students that work really hard on a daily basis.”

She struggled with mental health during her youth, but her condition started to worsen when she was 19. Eventually she was too physically weak and anxiety-ridden to leave her house.

Volunteering is a huge part of Jillianne’s life. She gives her time to a wide variety of organizations, from the Aids Crisis Response Team, to assisting disadvantaged women in Tanzania launch their own businesses.

Despite these obstacles, Jillianne has used her determination to succeed and her strength of character to build a life as a successful student and leader at Mohawk College. Her goal of becoming a journalist has been a driving force.

“Because people have invested so much in me, I want to be that difference in someone else’s life,” she says. “I want to be somebody who inspires other people or gives them what they need to also see a purpose for themselves.”

That drive was recognized by the OAB during its annual Career

Jillianne’s professors saw her commitment to the community from the moment she applied to Mohawk.

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“When I saw her application, I thought she was much older than she was, simply because of the amount of volunteer work she had done,” says Mohawk College Journalism Coordinator Kurt Muller.

“She’s been a real asset to the program, and a pleasure to have in class.”

Jillianne is open about her struggle with Bipolar Disorder. She wants her story to help end the stigma over mental illness, and help others get the support they need.

“For me, having people believe in me is a huge part of continuing to thrive,” she says. “They can help me carry my load when I don’t have the strength to anymore.”

awards & honours

Student Awards February 2015 – McKeil School of Business Marketing students won gold at the Vanier College BDC Case Challenge for the third time in 10 years. From front to back – students Alex Hurley, Scott Merwin and Mathew Brown and faculty Andrew McTear and Mark Valvasori.

December 2014 – Continuing a 7-year winning streak Mohawk advertising students won bronze, silver and gold at the Canadian Marketing Association (CMA) awards gala.

Awards & Honours Congratulations to the following Mohawk grads for their 2015 YWCA Hamilton Women of Distinction Award Nominations: • Tara Coffin-Simpson • Sue Prestedge

Student Creative Category

• Ellen Corsini-Chappel

Gold: Leonardo Gonzalez, Kevin Gonzalez, Megan Cras and Cory Hansen

• Marilyn Hill

Silver: Dave Knox, Emily Nixon, Dan Chaulk and Alisa Sera Garcia Bronze: Erik Thorkildsen, Matthew Gamble and Andrea Pohlmann November 2014 - At the 2014 Advertising & Design Club of Canada’s awards show, Mohawk students won a silver medal and two awards of merit.

Silver: Cory Hansen, Kevin Gonzalez and Holly Curran Awards of Merit: Emily Nixon, Leo Gonzalez and Dave Knox and 2014 grads, Osman Rahmani and Eric Williamson

• Karen Prine • Annette Hamm • Linda Marshall • Jessica Von Braun • Melissa Wilson

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alumni spotlight

heidi & glenn burgess Skyway Lawn Equipment Limited By: Lorraine Young, 2nd Year Journalism When Heidi (nee Stolys) and Glenn Burgess met in the Business Administration Program at Mohawk College in 1982, they had no idea where their enterprise together would take them. Heidi began commuting to Mohawk from her home in Caistorville, later sharing local rental space with her sister.

Glenn grew up in Stoney Creek, and pursuing business studies at Mohawk fit with his growing role in his father’s business.

“In first year we were just sort of finding our way; in second year we shared classes, and our ‘groups’ of people started to mix. At the end of that year there was an international study component to the program where we all went to Europe to visit businesses and complete a project,” says Glenn. That trip opened a door, and by the time they graduated in 1985 they were a couple, with a lifelong commitment to embracing opportunity that flourished at Mohawk and that they have passed on to their children.

Opportunity to travel, learn, experience, contribute and participate have all grown from those foundations at Mohawk, and their business together at Skyway Lawn Equipment where they work side by side at desks with a few feet between them. Although they laugh about occasional threats to rebuild the wall that used to separate the workspace, their partnership has obviously grown and taken them in many directions across their 28 years of marriage.

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After college, Glenn came to work full-time at the business that his father had launched in 1966, at a waterfront location under the skyway in Hamilton. Ultimately the shop grew from its lawn mower and landscape equipment roots into the thriving golf cart business that it is today.

In time, the company outgrew the beach strip spot (which was simultaneously redeveloping as a residential community) so a site was found on Upper Centennial Parkway in 2002. The new property encouraged growth and has already expanded once since the business arrived in 2003. The location offers central access to customer connections from Niagara to London to Toronto, even when traffic is busy.

By offering accessories, customization, service, rentals, refurbishing and sales of golf, utility, passenger and refreshment vehicles, Skyway has been well positioned to respond to the growing market for equipment. They provide not only to golf courses, but also to larger property operations like colleges and universities, rentals for special events and festivals, and recreational uses like campgrounds or cottagers who appreciate the versatility and quiet functioning of the vehicles. Customization allows the golf cart to represent brands or teams, or even become a personalized favourite big toy. The landscape equipment supply is still there too, mowing the business toward its 50th anniversary next year.

alumni spotlight

Heidi’s path into the business was less direct. After graduating, she worked with companies in the transportation industry as a general manager, while supporting the family business. When Skyway expanded to the new location in 2003 she recalls Glenn’s job offer going something like, “Well are you coming to work with me, or what?” She gladly stepped in to their closely shared office space.

The couple originally lived in Caistorville, but found they were driving east into Niagara constantly to events at Ridley College where their children were actively involved in school opportunities. They moved into St. Catherines and still enjoy the commute to work and all the golf course stops along the way.

Their children grew into the spirit of participation that Heidi and Glenn exemplified and now they track them across the continent and beyond to cheer them on and watch them develop and flourish.

Nadine, 23, is living in British Columbia after attending UBC where she played varsity hockey. Through school she travelled to South America, Europe, Australia and Africa and along the way she established a foundation to support education for children in one community in Uganda, including currently paying for one young woman to attend university.

Brad is 22 and is a junior at Ohio University on a golf scholarship. He has traveled to Australia on exchange, to

China for golf, and is heading to France this spring on a university internship.

Heidi and Glenn enjoy the flexibility their work allows; they are able to coordinate schedules around which of them will travel to attend hockey games, golf tournaments, and other activities with their kids. They plan family vacations together in slower business seasons, and at times and places where everyone can be available. Glenn’s dad can still hold down the fort – at 81 he comes into the shop everyday – even after Glenn’s mom retired five years ago.

It was kismet when a friend took a job at Mohawk College and tapped them to contribute golf carts for the President’s Golf Classic tournament, before he had even realized they were grads. They have enjoyed reconnecting through the Alumni Association after many busy years away.

“As school finished we’d meet up with everybody,” says Glenn, pointing to the 45 weddings they attended in the early years, “and then families grew and we all went off in our own directions, it was harder to stay in touch. But now we’re through that and glad to be reconnecting.”

Heidi adds, “Having gone to school and now operating our business locally, we are happy to be supporting Mohawk.

We fondly remember our years at Mohawk, and now recognize the parts of our experiences there that we have passed on to our children, without even realizing it.”

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hello

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keeping

Mark Bates | Electronics Engineering Technician, 1967 When retired, ‘new in your life’ does not happen much.

However after many, many years of Bachelorhood found a great partner, built a house just outside Hockley Valley (far too big), got a Bernese Mountain Dog (way too big), still play hockey three days a week (far too slow), enjoy working and playing at the golf course (never good enough), still travel to Florida every year to see my sailing buddies (should never have sold the boat) and looking forward to the 50th Alumni party. We are the first Mohawk Grads by the way!

Alan Edmund Pearl | Business

Administration, 1968

After graduation I went to Toronto and started a career in general insurance. Worked for 42.5 years, and retired

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in 2010 at age 63. Obtained my CAIB degree as a broker and my FCIP. My last 18 years were with Economical Ins., in Kitchener. As a Property/Casualty Specialist then eventually a H.O. Commercial Business Analyst travelling to branches from Halifax to Vancouver. My wife is a broker specializing in Boat/Marine Insurance. Between us we have 4 children, 6 grandchildren with 2 more due shortly.

Hans Wervers | Industrial Management Technology, 1969 Currently retired after a very interesting and rewarding career in logistics and inventory management for 30 years and prior to that 8 years in Industrial Engineering.

Remarried, living the dream, travelling, gardening, and pursuing a new hobby, home brewing beer and wine making. Mohawk College (H.I.T.) has given me an exciting and wonderful work life and lifestyle. I wish all graduates a similiar success.

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keeping in touch Lawrence James Smythe | Data

J. Enrique Astorga | Electronics Engineering Technician, 1984

Retiring from Mohawk

Worked for a number of years as a Technician at Canadian Astronauts Ltd. Continued my education at the University of Ottawa and graduated with an honours degree in Communication and Fine Arts. Worked at the University of Ottawa for a number of years and supplemented my education with a Massage Therapy diploma.

Processing, 1970

Joseph Joel Charo | Electronic Engineering Technician, 1973 Still working, business growing even though it is a throwaway society. Repair electronic units used in farming applications.

Edward L. Atkinson | Electronic Engineering Technician, 1974 Married in 1990!

Robert Arthur Venon | Architectural Technician, 1974 Although I have not worked in my area of training for some time, I use my Mohawk training nearly every day in my career.

Bonnie V. (nee Stinson) Holliday | Communication Arts, 1974 I am a reverend and began a new ministry at Port Elgin United Church in the Municipality of Saugeen Shores on September 1, 2014. I graduated with a M.Div. from Emmanual College at Victoria University (U of T) in 2006 and served Pioneer Memorial United Church in Hamilton from 2006-2014. In October, we welcomed a second grandchild Corbin Scott Arthur Holliday, a little brother for four-year-old Grace.

Donald Charles McFarlane | Business Administration, 1980 After 28 years in the Financial Services field and 2 years in retirement I am now recruiting mid to senior management positions in the Financial Services Industry.

Gregory Peart | Marketing, 1982

Sheri (nee Spencer) Olinyk | Industrial Management Technology, 1983 Completed my PhD just in time to retire, lol!

Presently I work as Registered Massage Therapist in Ottawa where I use all my previous system, technical, communication and creative skills to assist people with physical challenges; to release pain and improve performance.

Omar Mustafa Ghretlli | Materials Engineering Technology, 1989 Getting old.

Michel Caron | Insurance, 1993 I’ve worked directly and indirectly in the insurance industry for over 21 years and it’s been very rewarding. Recently, I decided to move back to PEI to ensure I continue to foster my career/family balance. Fortunately for me, with the advancements in technology, I’m able to continue my role as VP Sales in managing the sales team for across Canada but from the comforts of my home in PEI. Life is great and I’m thankful for the strong foundation that I established while being at Mohawk College.

Shannon Diane (nee McNeil) Boughen | Business, 1993 Married with a six year-old daughter. Recently purchased our dream home in Goderich, Ontario.

Monica Tammy (nee Altamore) Staats | Chemical Technician, 1997 In May we celebrated 10 years of business (MTS Native Services) in design, printing and finishing. We have two fulltime staff not including myself.

We do business across the province and country working with provincial and national First Nation organizations.

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keeping in touch Nebojsa Stamenkovic | Computer Systems Technician - Network Systems (Co-op), 1999 Technology leader of large international manufacturing company.

Ewelina (nee Pasadyn) Grisafi | Office Administration – Medical, 2006 I started working at Hamilton Health Sciences (HHS) shortly after graduating in 2006 and have been there for over eight years now. First part of my journey was in Cardiac Research and currently I am supporting Director of Clinical Resources. Recently, I have graduated from the Certified Clinical Research Associate (CCRA) program at McMaster University. In my spare time, I love to travel!

My husband and I have been to almost 30 countries and US states. We are visiting our 5th continent in October to celebrate our 2nd wedding anniversary!

Sheila Galhardo Cruz-Green | Journalism and Communications Media, 2006 I was recently married this past July 26th, 2014

David Edward Brennan | Architectural Technology Co-Op, 2005 After graduating I landed a job working in the oil & gas industry with a company I worked for during my Co-Op term. Ten years later I was still working there. I decided to change jobs and got the job I have now. Currently, I am enrolled in Athabasca’s BSc Architecture degree program to continue where I left off with Mohawk.

Piyush Chugh | International Business Management, 2012 I left Canada, now I am into my business of poultry farms.

Jagmeet Karwal | Motive Power Technician, 2012 Well after graduating from Mohawk College I started working in the Automotive Industry as an apprentice and in January 2014, I moved to Edmonton and am still pursuing my career in the same field.

Reena Reena | Early Childhood Education, 2013

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Jenelle Cruickshank | Graphic Design Production - Digital Media (Co-op), 2013 Small Business & Entrepreneurship, 2014 In 2013, I graduated from the Graphic Design Digital Media course at Mohawk College. During the three year program, I completed a one year coop position at the University of Waterloo as a Digital Media Assistant. The course at Mohawk prepared me with all the skills necessary to complete my job in Waterloo and I even learned some new skills that helped me complete my final semester at Mohawk after returning from the co-op. After graduating in June 2013 from the Graphic Design program, I was very fortunate to receive a full time summer position back at the University of Waterloo. During my time there I met some great people, learned lots and even helped the Center for Extended Learning at the University win some awards with a poster that I designed.

Near the end of the summer in 2013 I decided that I wanted to return to school and take my Graphic Design to the next level. In September 2013, I returned to Mohawk College to complete the Small Business & Entrepreneurship program.

During this time, I was also working as a Graphic Designer for the Mohawk College Cummings Library. I learned a lot of things about owning a business that I would have never even thought about without taking the course! Since graduating in June 2014, I have been working on projects on the side including invitations, logos, banners, layouts, etc. to build up my own business. I also began a full-time position with the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit in Simcoe as a Graphic Designer. I have been so blessed with all of the opportunities I have been given and have met some great people along the way. In 2015, I hope to revisit the business plan that I created in the Small Business course, and continue to grow my side business in hopes of turning it into a storefront business one day! I have learned so much from both courses that I have completed at Mohawk, and gained great experiences from both. When you love what you do, you never have to work a day in your life!

Vijendra Khandubhai Tambekar | Health, Wellness

and Fitness (Co-op), 2014

I am working as a Wellness Coach and Team Leader in YMCA downtown, Hamilton.

keeping in touch Alexander Purchase | Protection Security Investigations, 2014 Working at one of Canada’s largest credit bureaus in the fraud department and continuing back at Mohawk College for a grad program in Advanced Security Management.

Andrea Lobeck | Office Administration - General, 2014

Jessica Gray | Office Administration - Executive, 2014

MOHAWK

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 COLLEGEpartners sign strict confidentiality agreements with us prior to receiving any contact information.

Since graduating I have secured a full-time Executive Administrative Assistant position with Drainage Investment Group and a part time Administrative Assistant position with Niagara College.

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.

Michael John Plunkett | Child and Youth Work, 2014

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

I am currently working full-time in the field of child and youth work. The college gave me the necessary skills to gain employment before I received my diploma.

MOHAWK COLLEGE Play, Create, Learn, Explore and Discover!

Best Kids Camp

Award-winning Camp for kids ages 5-12 June 29 - August 21 Program Hours – 9:00am - 4:00pm FREE Extended Hours – 8:00am - 9:00am and 4:00pm - 5:30pm

Check our website for registration, trip details, special guests and more at mohawkcollege.ca/camps

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calendar of events

Please visit mohawkcollege.ca/alumni to find out more about or to register for all Alumni events.

May

28

29

St Joseph’s School of Nursing Alumnae Association Annual Reunion Day – Celebrating 100 years – Attention graduates of St. Joseph’s Nursing Campus of Mohawk College | Thursday, May 28, 2015 | Michelangelo Events and Conference Centre, 1555 Upper Ottawa Street, Hamilton, ON | Mass at 10:30 am; Celebrant: Bishop Douglas Crosby | Luncheon at 12:30 pm | Ticket cost to be determined by end of March | For further information, contact Karen Martin at sjsnaakm@gmail.com

10 13

August

15

11th 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 8 at 4pm)

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MYAC Golf 101 – Golf 101 is Ideal for new golfers and anyone who wants to improve their game. We begin with a 45 minute hands-on instruction taught by Director of Golf/ Head Golf Professional, Brian Jolley.

After our lesson, we hit the golf course and enjoy a round of 9-holes. After golf, we can meet on the patio for a bit to eat and a few laughs. – 1pm start time 7.125”w x 9.75”h (non bleed) | $40 per person (includes golf OR 8.375”w x 11.0625”h (with bleed) lesson, 9-holes and cart) | Join the Mohawk Young Alumni Connection at Flamborough FULL COLOUR Hills Golf & Country Club| Ad Size Orientation Registration opens late-April – Back Cover N/A Inside Cover N/A alumni.mohawkcollege.ca Full Page N/A 1/2 Page 1/2 Page 1/3 Page

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Vertical Horizontal Square

MYAC Summer Patio Party at the Tiger-Cats Game – Hamilton Tiger-Cats vs BC Lions - Join the Mohawk Young Alumni Connection at the Coors Light Patio Party |7pm Kickoff | $45 per person – first 50 registrations receive a $10 concession voucher compliments of Alumni Insurance Services | Registration opens late-June – alumni.mohawkcollege.ca

Register online for all events at alumni.mohawkcollege.ca

June

Spring 2015 Convocation Ceremonies

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

Advertise With Us! The bi-annual Alumni In Touch magazine is distributed to over 63,000 Mohawk College Alumni and friends in the Spring and Fall, through Canada Post.

Width 7.125” 7.125” 7.125” 3.80” 7.125” 4.625”

Height Price 2 Issue Rate 9.75” $1,350.00 $1,250.00 9.75” $1,150.00 $1,050.00 9.75” $1,000.00 $950.00 9.50” $500.00 $450.00 4.625” $500.00 $450.00 4.625” $325.00 $300.00 Rates do not include HST

Alumni House PO Box 2034 Hamilton, ON L8N 3T2 alumni@mohawkcollege.ca T. 905-575-2258 | F. 905-575-2243 MAGAZINE FORMAT Trim Size: 8.125”w x 10.8125”h Bleed Size: 8.375”w x 11.0625”h

Budds’ BMW Hamilton Proudly supports Mohawk College

INSPIRING TOMORROW.

Budds’ BMW Hamilton Upper James St.

buddsbmwhamilton.com