Mohawk College In Touch Alumni Magazine - Spring 2007

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CE L E B R AT I N G O U R G R A D UAT E S a n d B U I L D I N G L I F E LO N G R E L ATIONSHIPS

SPRING 2007

IN TOUCH PUBLISHER Mohawk College Alumni Association EDITOR Wendy Makey DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Copperlen IMA PHOTOGRAPHY David Dorkin Photography Terra Nova Images John Guilfoyle Mary Hrycay Bernetta Scime CONTRIBUTORS Catharine Ozols, Lynda Morgan Murdoch, Wendy Makey, Jay Robb, Lidia Siino, Trent Jarvis, Al Craig, Bernetta Scime, Jayne Woods, Sara Colautti, Dennis Campbell, Catherine Drea, MaryLynn West Moynes, Ronald Holgerson, Linda Basso, Ann Clark, Lesley Hardsand, Abigail Peralta, Patricia Duxbury, Helen Maddick, Darren Desmarais, Michael Regan, Barbara Wunder, Katherine McCurdy, Daniel Jelly, Marianne Wilson, Alana Henderson, Kym McCreary-Stewart EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD Ronald Holgerson VP Marketing, Communications, Alumni & Development

Wendy Makey

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W H AT ’ S I N S I D E Ho m e co m i n g 2 0 0 7 Page 10

O S OT F Wi n n e r s 2 0 0 6 Page 14

K i m Va n Lo u we ce l e b rate s 1 0 ye a r s at M o h aw k

J u m p STAR RT

Ap p re nt i ce Tra i n i n g

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CO VE R S TO R Y In neighbourhoods across Hamilton and Halton, Mohawk grad Marni Flaher t y is getting communities to embrace a previously under valued commodit y – their kids.

Written by K ate S ch o ol ey Pag e 2 0

Vice President Academic Receives Provincial Honours

Manager, Alumni Relations

Lidia Siino VP Marketing & Communications, Alumni Association

Kelly Dunham Alumni Assistant

Marilyn Gris

D E PA R T M ENT S

Coordinator, Web Communications

Joanne O’Brien Director, Alumni Association

CONTENT CO-ORDINATOR Kelly Dunham In Touch Magazine is published semi-annually by the Alumni Relations Department at Mohawk College.

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

Publications Mail Agreement Number 40065780 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: Mohawk College, Alumni Relations Alumni House, P.O. Box 2034 Hamilton, ON L8N 3T2

Welcoming Words

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Alumni News

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Around Campus

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Varsity News

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MSA News

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Keeping in Touch

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Looking Back

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To update your Alumni Record, please contact: Phone: 905-575-2258, Fax: 905-575-2443 alumni@mohawkcollege.ca or the address above.

VISIT OUR W E B S I T E AT A LU M N I . M O H AW KCO L L E G E. C A

Welcoming Words

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GREAT YEARS

2007 MARKS MOHAWK’S 40TH YEAR AS AN ONTARIO COLLEGE

MaryLynn West-Moynes President of Mohawk College

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he year 2007 marks Mohawk’s 40th anniversary year, to better serve students throughout southwestern as an Ontario College, and since that time we Ontario. We are also en route to creating an Insurance have grown to embrace 75,000 alumni. It is and Financial Services Centre of Excellence at our Fennell also 50 years since we were the Hamilton Institute of Campus School of Business, and so much more.

As our anniversary year unfolds, I ask you to reach Technology, and 60 years since we were the Provincial Institute of Textiles. Just stop a moment and think out and get involved with your College. One might about the impact of that history. Over 75,000 alumni say that universities have led the way in engaging their are out there, strong graduates from Mohawk College grads, celebrating their successes, and involving them in and its previous incarnations, making a difference moving forward, as they should. Many universities are almost or more than 100 years old, including our partners, today in the workplace and their communities.

In that spirit, we are inviting all our alumni to nominate Wilfrid Laurier, founded in 1911, and McMaster, seeded their former classmates as we are developing a short list in the 1830s and incorporated in 1887.

Our Mohawk College future holds much promise as we of the ‘Incredible 40 at 40’ alumni, whom we will celebrate as part of our 40th anniversary. I encourage you come to the last year of our current Vision Like A Hawk: to send in your nominations to Wendy Makey, Manager, Strategic Plan 2004 to 2007. The Board of Governors Alumni Relations. Send in the names of alumni who has begun the process of consulting on a new multiyear Strategic Plan, one are making a difference, that will encourage us former classmates who Over 75,000 alumni are out there, even more to celebrate to d ay a re m a k i n g a strong graduates from Mohawk College our success, distinguish contribution to social, and its previous incarnations, making our institution, and cultural and economic continue to realize d e ve l o p m e n t i n o u r a difference today in the workplace and our vision of learning, communities, province their communities. leadership and a n d / o r co u n t r y. I citizenship. know we’re all going What I find so exciting is that now that we are 40 to be very proud of our alumni success stories!

The year 2007 promises to be a milestone year in other as Mohawk College, with 60 years of history, we have ways. First, we will open our transformed Stoney come of age. I encourage you to help your College, help Creek Campus following significant new construction Mohawk become better for students, by contributing to in September as the Mohawk Skilled Trades & our future and by coming out to enjoy our celebrations Apprenticeship Research, Resources and Training Institute, this year.

Best wishes for a great 2007! or Mohawk STARRT Institute. Second, we have great plans to enhance our Brantford campus over the coming

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Welcoming Words A TIME TO CELEBRATE & CONNECT! Wendy Makey, Manager, Alumni Relations Recreation and Leadership, 1993

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o yo u e ve r wo n d e r what happened to the person who sat beside you in math class? Or the person who was on your team for campus recreation activities?

Or the group of people you spent time with in the Arnie or Cellar? Well now is the time to find out.

The Mohawk College Alumni Association invites you back to Homecoming 2007 – Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of Mohawk College.

Join us on October 12 and 13 as we have planned 1½ days of activities and events for any and all graduates of Mohawk College. A time to take a walk down memory lane, connect with past classmates, reunite with old friends, chat with faculty, tour the College, catch a

varsity or alumni game, have a drink or two at the Arnie or in the Cellar, visit the decade rooms, drop into Alumni House, tour all campuses, attend a pub night or two, and the list goes on. Share this exciting news with your friends – come back as a group, as a family, or on your own.

On subsequent pages of this copy of In Touch you will find a schedule of events and activities for Homecoming Weekend. Have a look and see what piques your interest.

If you would like to get involved on the Homecoming Committee contact the Alumni Relations Office – we welcome your input and involvement.

Look for your personal invitation in June. Mark your calendar and plan to join us Friday, October 12 and Saturday, October 13 for Homecoming 2007 - it’s something you won’t want to miss. Meecha at the Arnie!

M O H AW K CO L L EGE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION | alumni.mohawkcollege.c a

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Welcoming Words ALUMNI ASSOCIATION’S NEW IDENTITY Written by Lidia Siino on behalf of the Alumni Association

“The best vision is insight.” This quote by successful businessman Malcolm S. Forbes perfectly describes the series of events that have recently occurred within the Mohawk College Alumni Association.

In November 2005, the Mohawk College Alumni Board of Directors began a strategic planning process.

Such an endeavour encouraged Board Members to examine our current structure while allowing sufficient time to assess our growth potential.

An imperative goal of the Association was to restructure a new understanding of our Alumni, while maintaining our reputation as upstanding community members.

The process of changing ourselves for the better while staying true to our historical roots was not an easy one.

A great deal of insight occurred. Who are we? What have we done in the past? What would we like to be doing?

What do our members want? All of these questions became legitimate grounds for meeting discussions.

The consensus around the meeting table was unanimous.

ALUMNI BOARD OF DIRECTORS: 2006 - 2007 SLATE OF OFFICERS

Morgan Seele (Computer Systems, 2002) Sandi Richardson (Early Childhood Education, 1971) Lidia Siino (Broadcast Journalism and Communications Media, 2002) Mo Mauri (Business, 1977) Joanne O’Brien (Office Administration-Executive, 2004) Alex Paris (Recreation Leadership, 1990) Gary Sawchuck (Insurance, 1971) Diana Zanin (Business Administration, 1980) Jason Lee, President, Mohawk College Students’ Association

THE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION THANKS THESE INDIVIDUALS FOR THEIR VALUED CONTRIBUTIONS TO ALUMNI ACTIVITIES, COMMITTEES AND MEETINGS ON BEHALF OF THE ALUMNI OF MOHAWK COLLEGE, WE APPRECIATE YOUR DEDICATION.

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We want to improve.

As a result of this insight, we developed the following new statements: Vision: Mohawk College Alumni Association is the most successful alumni association in Canada.

Mission: Mohawk College Alumni Association is the catalyst for a life long relationship between Mohawk College and its Alumni.

Every new undertaking including services, community events and projects stems from the above mentioned goals.

We are proud to continue honouring our past traditions while maintaining a passionate energy toward our future endeavours.

As our strategic process nears its completion, please join us in celebrating our renewed commitment to Alumni by participating in many of our special events and services.

It is fitting at this time of transition to have simultaneously moved into Alumni House. Our new home befits our new identity - a new appearance embraced with historical furnishings.

M O H AW K CO L L EGE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION | alumni.mohawkcollege.c a

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Alumni News

ECOGNIZING OUR OWN AT THE 2006 ALUMNI OF DISTINCTION DINNER

2006 Alumni of Distinction award recipients. Standing: Michael Desnoyers, Mindy Tweedle Laforet, Ward Dilse. Sitting: John Lafferty and Mike Farrell.

It was an absolute pleasure to attend the Alumni of Distinction Dinner in January 2007. From the time Geraldine and I walked in until the time we left, we couldn’t help but feel the energy in the room surrounding the success of our Mohawk College graduates.

Meeting new people and connecting with those I’ve seen over the years was indeed a treat. Every person at this event was a supporter of our great college or a supporter of someone who has done remarkable things for our communities.

That many people sharing a common interest is a recipe for a good time!

We had the pleasure of sitting with Ward Dilse, his wife Shannon and his family.

Without each other, many of us could not commit to the excellence of Mohawk and these people were no exception to that. To be considered for such an honour is one thing, but to be the recipient would be

quite another and the bios of the award winners were outstanding. These people have made a remarkable impact in our communities and are leaders to say the least. As a staff member of Mohawk, associate Alumnus and current student, I was very proud to share the evening with such talented and genuine people.

A few weeks later we had the honour of attending the Premier’s Awards in Toronto, where one of our graduates, Marni Flaherty, was recognized provincially as one of five outstanding alumni.

Another proud night for Mohawk College!

The Alumni Association does such a fantastic job honouring great graduates and this dinner was absolutely wonderful.

What a class act! To Michael, Ward, John, Mindy and Mike…

Standing: Diane Allie, Diana Zanin, Jason DeRosh, and Patricia Lorran. Sitting: Sandy Stevenson, Angela Barbas, and Carrie Ashworth.

Standing: Deanna Dishke, David Dishke and John Marshall. Sitting: Sandra Ireland, Lynda McDermott, and Debbie Logel Butler.

Congratulations on your success as Alumni of Distinction. To Wendy, Kelly, alumni staff and of course, the Alumni Board of Directors, thank you for the superior work you do for us. I can’t wait for the annual golf tournament!

Trent Jarvis Board of Governors Mohawk College

Broadcasting student videotapes the event.

M O H AW K CO L L EGE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION | alumni.mohawkcollege.c a

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An Open Letter To Fellow Alumni Well, 25 years is a long time to be out of the school and if you are reading this article right now there is probably a good chance that you, too, have been away from Mohawk for a long time.

I returned for my 25-year reunion last fall and realized that the Alumni Association is very much alive at the college. That night, we enjoyed a meal, some good music, a few drinks and the fellowship of students both current and returning.

We toured the old Arnie, CHMR, saw the new student centre, checked Rosemary & Steve Marsh out the new Arnie and saw what a great job they have done in the place.

We talked about the ‘80s... do you remember how packed the North Cafeteria would be during the pub nights?

Everybody was having a great time dancing to the live bands. We would wear our skinny ties and our high top running shoes and there was always some girl with really big hair. They were great days and it was a pleasure to remember them.

It has been said that the more things change, the more they stay the same. That night, older, wiser, and, perhaps, a bit greyer, many of us talked about our own families and our children who would be making their way down these halls soon (if they are not doing so already). It was then that we realized the value of who we were as Alumni.

For me, after graduating in 1981 from the Law and Security program, I chose another direction in my work life. I will say, however, that what helped me grow was the life experiences that I had while I was here at Mohawk.

There was always something to do. If you wanted to get involved, you could. Never did I realize how important it was to be involved as I do now. Successful communites are built by those who participate.

The irony of it all is that today, for our own kids, their involvement is a requirement for their education. What a great standard by which to measure their lives. I once heard someone say that you can’t know which way you are heading unless you remember where you came from. Many of us can thank Mohawk College for pointing us in the direction that may have lead us to where we are today. Remember Mohawk and your friends. In this publication you will find more details about Homecoming 2007. Plan to return. Leave with a story from an old friend, or help leave a legacy.

As for me, sans skinny tie, I am looking forward to another reunion. Hope to see you there.

Steve Marsh Law and Security ‘81 SRC ‘81

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M O H AW K CO L L EGE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION | alumni.mohawkcollege.c a

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Alumni News

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Winter Convocation 2007 Written by Lidia Siino

As a representative for the Mohawk College Alumni Association, an interesting thought occurred to me during convocation one evening.

Out of the dozens of students graduating during convocation, surely one must be thinking; “Who are those people sitting on the stage at convocation?”

Of course, we are mentioned during the ceremony, which you may very well hear, but do you really listen?

The pending walk across the stage is enough to warrant distraction.

Our tribe is called “the platform party.” Our mission: to honour you as new Alumni.

Ranging from faculty to S enior Lea dership Team to Board of Governors and Alumni repres entat ives, we assemble ourselves in the staff lounge with as much excitement and anticipation as you do in the gymnasium.

What we gain in excitement, we lack in organization.

Thankfully, we also have wonderful convocation elves who ensure we are in proper order in spite of our best attempts at sabotage.

An indescribable buzz unites the makeshift dressing room. Each one of us represents different facets of your journey. We unite to celebrate our organization’s greatest achievement: our graduates.

Once the assembling is complete, we march into the auditorium where previous feelings of excitement and celebration intensify.

Our fixed group sits on the stage,

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President, MaryLynn West-Moynes, Alumni Speaker, Richard Borger, VP Marketing and Communications, Alumni Association, Lidia Siino, and Board of Governors Chair, Gary Beverage.

staring out into the abyss of graduates. Actually, the light from the theatre makes it physically impossible to see past the first five rows, but, if we squint really hard, we can see you.

Equally inspiring is to look at all the support from friends and family. We may not know every graduate walking across the stage, but we do know that every one of you has made someone proud.

We have the blindness from the camera flashes to prove it.

We notice your hairstyles, your shoes, your elation, and we are pleased to be a part of it.

Although a select few win medals, you’ve all won something. Perhaps you defeated a term project, or conquered an unfavourable timetable. The fact that you graduate from a post-secondary institution while having part-time jobs is a feat within itself.

Regardless of your individual situation, we are very proud of you.

As someone from the inside, looking outwards, it is truly an honour to be involved with convocation, recognizing the excellence of our graduates.

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Richard Borger is a graduate of both the Mechanical Engineering Technology and Materials Engineering Technology programs here at Mohawk College, and is an excellent example of living your education.

After graduating in 2005 with two diplomas, Richard Borger started his career as a teacher at Jordan Christian School.

Richard also works as a self-employed home renovator and at Garden City Display Fireworks as a display fireworks technician.

However, he doesn’t stop there. Richard is also in the process of earning his Bachelor of Physical Education and his Bachelor of Education at Brock University.

Richard is also involved with the 18th Century British Smoothbore Artillery. He successfully cast an exact reproduction of a Coehorn Mortar. Together with the Hamilton Bomb Squad, Richard shot several 4.5 inch mortar shells. This is the first time a Coehorn mortar was made in Canada by Canadians and fired in Canada since The War of 1812.

Richard is a true example of how one should have a well-balanced life. While attending Mohawk, he participated in Campus Recreation activities, was a member of our Varsity Cross Country Team and excelled in his academic program. And for this contribution to Mohawk, Richard was a recipient of a Gold Medal upon Graduation in 2005.

Creating Opportunities...

Through Student Bursaries. “ Match your gift dollar for dollar” and double the impact of your generosity.

Affording a college education remains a challenge for many. Mohawk’s Ontario Trust for Student Support (OTSS) Campaign will provide bursaries for students who have the ability and talent but face the financial challenge of a college education.

Mohawk is committed to removing barriers to ensure access to the knowledge and skill needed to open doors to great careers. Our Bursary Campaign will do just that!

When our student fundraisers call, please be generous.

Students and learning are at the heart of all we do.

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Alumni News

2006 OSOTF Winners

In 1996, The Ministry of Education announced a permanent scholarship fund that would support worthy and needy students. Every contribution was matched dollar for dollar by the Ontario government. The Mohawk College Alumni Association contributed $150,000. This past year, that donation helped the following students.

Kyle Pacey

Kyle Pacey is a graduate of Sir Allan MacNab Secondary School in Hamilton.

Why did you choose Mohawk?

I liked their Cooperative Education option, which some other colleges didn’t offer. I heard their Architectural Program is really good. I had also met Mr. Blackwood at an open house and he gave me a personal tour of a Materials Lab. What was your first reaction when you found out you had won the scholarship?

I felt really happy because I wanted to pay for most of the tuition myself instead of relying on my parents.

What has being a recipient of the award enabled you to do?

Help pay for tuition.

What are your future plans?

I would like some sort of job in the architectural field. I’m still not quite sure what exactly.

As your first year is wrapping up, what does Mohawk College mean to you?

I’m really glad that I chose it. The instructors are friendly and helpful. The campus is very clean and inviting. I think I have chosen the right program for me. I’m interested in what I’m learning. I’m looking forward to when I can do a co-op.

T heresa Oakes

Theresa Oakes went to Cayuga Secondary School in Cayuga, where she has lived her whole life until her acceptance into Mohawk for Accounting.

Why did you choose Mohawk?

I chose to go to Mohawk to start my postsecondary education as it wasn’t too far from home and with such a big change, it helps to stay close to your roots. Mohawk also offered a very good co-op program which was really important to me as I wanted to gain experience in my chosen field, while I pursued my education.

What was your first reaction when you found out you had won the scholarship?

I think one of the aspects of college that people stress about the most is how in the world they are going to afford it. When I found out I had won the scholarship, I felt so excited and appreciative. It was very encouraging to know what I could accomplish. It had also relieved some of that stress, and allowed me to start my first day of college (almost) worry free, and with a positive attitude.

What are your future plans?

Once I’ve completed my accounting program at Mohawk, I hope to take the skills I’ve learned and enrol in a Certified General Accounting course, and someday, eventually become a Chartered Accountant.

As your first year is wrapping up, what does Mohawk College mean to you?

As my first year is wrapping up, I feel I’ve exceeded my expectations. Mohawk has definitely made my transfer into college successful, with such helpful teachers and useful services.

Continued on next page...

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Volunteers Needed!

We are looking for outgoing, motivated, individuals to help provide a ‘Welcome’ environment at Mohawk College.

Information Booths College Events Tours For more information, Please contact Debra Pearson at

905-575-2492

Alumni News Melissa Zavarella

Melissa Zavarella is a graduate of Blessed Trinity in the town of Grimsby.

Why did you choose Mohawk?

I heard good things about the Office Administration Legal Program and Mohawk College. I always knew that I wanted to attend Mohawk College.

What was your response when you found out that you won?

Well, that is kind of funny, as I was shopping with my mom and we arrived home and I went in first and looked at the mail and I saw a letter from Mohawk. I thought to myself, oh, not another bill and then I opened it and read the letter. I was very excited and ran out to my mom and told her the good news.

What has being one of the Alumni Association’s OSOTF winners, enabled you to do?

Being recognized for this award has enabled me to pursue a career in legal office administration.

The financial assistance offered with this award is greatly appreciated. Furthermore, the appeal of an award such as the OSOTF shows how dedicated and hard working I am.

As your first year is wrapping up, what does Mohawk College mean to you?

Mohawk College is certainly a huge part of my life. I am at the college more than I am at home for the most part. Mohawk is a college that takes pride in developing a great relationship with their students. I love being at the college and I think that is what makes Mohawk so great.

For more information about What are your future plans?

Scholarships and Bursaries I would like to go right into the working field after I graduate next year. available to students I am still quite young and therefore will probably spend time developing my career in office administration once I have a full-time job. I would visit the website: like to take night courses while working full-time in a legal office.

awards.mohawkcollege.ca

Advertise with us and reach over 42, 000 Mohawk Alumni.

M O H AW K CO L L EGE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION | alumni.mohawkcollege.c a

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Keep moving on your college education.

Complete your bachelor’s degree online with Davenport University.

A bachelor’s degree can prepare you for better job opportunities, a higher salary, and increased career satisfaction long term.

• •

Mohawk College and Davenport University have developed a degree continuation partnership that allows you to continue towards a bachelor’s degree — or even an MBA. You can finish your degree online — with absolutely no on-campus

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requirements.

Many Mohawk graduates with a 3-year diploma can complete a bachelor’s degree with just 10 Davenport classes (30 credit hours).

Benefits to an online degree from Davenport University: > NO VISAS Earn your degree completely online. > 24/7 AVAILABILITY Take classes anytime; work around scheduled commitments. > CREDIT TRANSFERS Mohawk credits may completely transfer to a Davenport degree. > AFFORDABLE Scholarships are available.

Visit our website regarding specific transfer programs.

www.davenport.edu/mohawk For more information, contact Darcy Richardson at 1.800.203.5323 x3405 or email darcy.richardson@davenport.edu.

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A partnership with Davenport University for students, employees, and alumni of Mohawk College.

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Around Campus

More Choice!

Written by Linda Basso

Mohawk Expands Degree Completion Opportunities for Graduates Did you know that your college diploma could lead you to a bachelor’s or even master’s degree?

Kathy Hayes, Registrar, Mohawk College; Linda Basso, Students, Access and Success Division, Mohawk College; Reid Gough, Dean of School of Technology and DU Online; Louise Bockner, Executive Dean, International Education; Catherine Drea, Vice President, Students, Access and Success, Mohawk College; Christopher Marx, Director of Transfer Articulation; Bob Clarkson; Vice President of Admissions; and Darcy Richardson, Director of Admissions DU Online

College has provided students with an opportunity to combine their occupational and professional programs from Mohawk with university programs at Laurier Brantford.

An exciting new transfer credit agreement has just been established at Laurier Brantford, granting graduates from 23 Mohawk College programs the opportunity to complete a degree in a shortened period. With an increased workload and some courses in the summer, students can complete a General Bachelor of Arts degree in as little as a year and a half, or an Honours BA in just two and a half years.

Students are eligible to enter any of Laurier Brantford’s honours programs, including contemporar y studies, criminology, health studies, journalism or leadership and receive transfer credits, including program specific credits.

A recent survey of first semester students at Mohawk reveals that almost 50% identify a goal of achieving a university Articulation Partners degree after they complete their college Laurier Brantford Athabasca University diploma. Six months Brantford, Ontario Alberta, Canada after graduation, more www.wlu.ca www.athabascau.ca _______________________ _______________________ than 15% of graduates McMaster University Brock University surveyed indicate that Hamilton, Ontario St. Catharines, Ontario they are in further www.mcmaster.ca www.brocku.ca _______________________ _______________________ education. McMaster Ryerson University Centenary College Un i v e r s i t y, Wi l f r i d Toronto, Ontario Hackettstown, New Jersey, USA L a u r i e r Un i v e r s i t y www.ryerson.ca www.centenarycollege.edu _______________________ _______________________ (including Laurier Saginaw Valley State University Davenport University Saginaw, Michigan, USA Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA Brantford) and Brock www.svsu.edu www.davenport.edu _______________________ _______________________ University are the top University of Western Sydney Griffith University university destinations Sydney, Australia Australia of Mohawk graduates in www.uws.edu.au www.griffith.edu.au full-time degree programs at the time of the survey.

Mohawk College graduates now have more degree completion options than ever before thanks to recent enhancement of existing articulation agreements and development of new ones with university partners in Ontario, across Canada, in the United States and Australia. These agreements allow Mohawk graduates to continue learning in order to meet their educational and personal goals.

Articulation agreements between Mohawk College and universities facilitate university admission for graduates by giving credit for college study. Mohawk graduates may receive credit for several courses, or for a year or more towards a university degree. This allows students to develop practical skills and knowledge at the college level and to build on this foundation with more theoretical learning at university, an excellent return on investment for post-secondary tuition.

For several years, the partnership between Laurier Brantford and Mohawk

For those graduates seeking a travel/ study experience, Mohawk’s agreements with Griffith University and the University of Western Sydney, both in Australia, have been expanded to include additional program areas. Australia is proving to be a popular choice among recent graduates.

In February of this year alone, seven students commenced their degree studies at Griffith.

Michigan’s Davenport University is also offering graduates a chance to update their diploma to a degree. The recently developed agreement between the university and Mohawk was signed in March and it allows graduates from two and three-year business diploma programs to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business administration while graduates from the several business graduate certificate programs can complete a master’s level degree. Davenport has several delivery options available so you can do a full-time in-seat program in a classroom setting or, through DU Online, carry out your studies part time through online delivery.

More articulation agreements are currently in the works and Mohawk expects that the options will continue to expand in order to meet the demand and needs of graduates.

Is a degree in your future? Search the Mohawk Transfer Opportunities database or link to university resources through the Degree Opportunities site http://www.mohawkcollege.ca/gradpathways.

More information regarding degree c o m p l e t i o n o p p o r t u n i t i e s , articulation agreements, collaborative degrees, credit transfer and frequently asked questions can also be found on the site. Please send your questions to grad.pathways@mohawkcollege.ca.

M O H AW K CO L L EGE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION | alumni.mohawkcollege.c a

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Around Campus Stoney Creek Campus

STARRT

SUPPORTERS HELPING TO JUMP SKILLED TRADES AND APPRENTICESHIP TRAINING Written by Jay Robb

“The Mohawk STARRT Institute will provide our young people with the opportunity to access an education that will lead to a lucrative and satisfying career, and this home-grown, highly trained and professional workforce,will help to keep industry and attract new business to the Hamilton area,” - Jennifer Mossop, MPP and Mohawk alumna

STARRT SKILLED TRADES AND APPRENTICESHIP RESEARCH, RESOURCES AND TRAINING

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h e P r o v i n c e o f O n t a r i o, Hamilton City Council, Dofasco and the family of the late Gerald Marshall are taking a leadership role in creating opportunities for more students to pursue goldcollar careers in skilled trades and apprenticeship professions.

The transformation of the Stoney Creek Campus into the new Mohawk Skilled Trades and Apprenticeship Research, Resources and Training (STARRT) Institute will double skilled trades enrolment to 1,020 students and grow apprenticeship opportunities by 35 per cent to 3,571 students.

In January, the Ontario Government announced a $5 million strategic investment in skilled trades training at Mohawk. “The Mohawk STARRT Institute will provide our young people with the opportunity to access an education that will lead to a lucrative and satisfying career, and this homegrown, highly trained and professional workforce will help to keep industry and attract new business to the Hamilton 18

area,” Stoney Creek Member of Provincial Parliament and college graduate Jennifer Mossop said during an official ceremony at Mohawk.

Joining the Ontario Government in supporting STARRT is Hamilton City Council which last year approved a $1.5 million grant from the Hamilton Future Fund. Soon after, the family of the late Gerald Marshall gave the single largest private donation in Mohawk’s history. Established with a $1.2 million

donation, the Gerald Marshall Fund will enhance Mohawk’s Truck and Coach Apprenticeship program.

“Our father was a tireless worker and business owner who instilled a love of learning in his family,” says Wayne Marshall, co-owner of Marshall Truck and Trailer Repair Ltd in Stoney Creek.

“In establishing the Gerald Marshall Fund at Mohawk, we are creating opportunities for students to follow in our father’s footsteps and achieve their own dreams of building successful careers and companies.”

Also supporting STARRT is Dofasco, with a $1 million commitment. The Hamilton steelmaker called its support for STARRT “a down payment on Dofasco’s future,” as the company is home to Ontario’s largest apprenticeship program and draws 90 per cent of its apprentices from Mohawk.

“The tremendous support from our partners speaks volumes about their commitment and leadership in addressing

Gerald Marshall

Continued on next page...

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Around Campus Continued from page 18 the skills shortage and championing the respect and value that is much deserved by skilled trades people and apprentices,” said Mohawk President MaryLynn West-Moynes.

The Mohawk STARRT Institute renovations and new construction will expand the campus by approximately 88,000 square feet and cost an estimated $32 million. The Mohawk STARRT Institute will feature additional classrooms and labs for teaching and learning, an enterprise training and research centre to foster corporate training initiatives and incentive innovation, and an awareness resources centre to promote skilled trades and apprenticeship career opportunities. Phase 1 of STARRT will open in September 2007, with Phase 2 complete by 2009.

To support STARRT and economic growth in our region, please contact Bill Pitcher, Campaign Director – STARRT, 905-575-1212 x3372 or bill-pitcher@mohawkcollege.ca or Ronald Holgerson, Vice President, Marketing, Communications, Alumni and Development, 905-575-2131, or ronald.holgerson@mohawkcollege.ca.

Jennifer Mossop

Mohawk VP received provincial honours for her leadership in health science education

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career dedicated to advancing education in health sciences has earned Mohawk’s Vice President, Academic a provincial award for distinguished service.

Rosemary Knechtel received the Colleges Ontario Distinguished Service Award at the association’s annual conference held in February. Rosemary, who joined Mohawk in 1971, has served as a faculty member, Department Coordinator and Teaching Master, Program Chair, Dean and Executive Dean.

As Dean of Health Sciences and Human Services at Mohawk, Rosemary led the design, construction and opening of the Mohawk-McMaster Institute for Applied Health Sciences (IAHS) in 2000. Located on the campus of McMaster University, the IAHS was the first facility in Canada to bring together college and university health science programs, including the largest Sonography program in the country. Today, more than 1,200 fulltime and 3,500 part-time college and university students study at the IAHS. Rosemary also championed the development of new collaborative health science programs with McMaster, Conestoga College and Six Nations of the Grand River. These programs include: • A McMaster / Mohawk / Conestoga Bachelor of Science in Nursing Collaborative Degree.

• A Diploma Registered Practical Nurses to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program .

• A Practical Nursing with Aboriginal Communities program developed in partnership with Six Nations of the Grand River to meet the health care needs of Aboriginal communities. The program is delivered at the IAHS and Six Nations Polytechnic.

• A Mohawk / McMaster Collaborative Ontario College Advanced Diploma / BSc Degree in Medical Radiation Sciences, where students earn both a professional

Rosemary Knechtel Advanced Diploma and a Bachelor of Science in Medical Radiation Sciences.

To support the launch of the program, Mohawk secured a $2.14 million Strategic Skills Initiative Grant in partnership with McMaster and Philips Medical Systems Canada.

“Rosemary has demonstrated outstanding and tireless leadership in advancing health science education and creating new opportunities for more students to pursue rewarding careers as health care professionals,” says Mohawk President MaryLynn West-Moynes.

“Rosemary has made an invaluable contribution to Mohawk and to Ontario’s health care system.”

The Colleges Ontario Awards were established in 2000 to recognize individuals, organizations and volunteers who have made outstanding contributions to the advancement of Ontario’s colleges.

The selection committee, which reviewed nominations from Ontario’s 24 colleges, included Dr. Philip Steenkamp, Deputy Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities, and Len Crispino, President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. In 2006, Mohawk Board of Governor Brenda Davis received the William G. Davis Community Volunteer Award.

M O H AW K CO L L EGE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION | alumni.mohawkcollege.c a

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COVER STORY

A Champion for Children

In neighbourhoods across Hamilton and Halton, Mohawk grad Marni Flaherty is getting communities to embrace a previously undervalued commodity – their kids.

Written by Kate Schooley

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arni Flaherty is not a typical hero of the preschool set. She doesn’t have a syndicated TV show, or her own line of action figures. You won’t see her face on a pair of sneakers, or even a cereal box -- but if you’re the parent of a preschooler, you may well be reaping the rewards of her efforts. As CEO of Today’s Family Early Learning and Child Care, Marni works tirelessly to fulfill her vision for the children of Hamilton and Halton Region with all the ingenuity of Dora the Explorer, the determination of Thomas the Tank Engine and the compassion of an urbanite Fairy Godmother.

Magic wand notwithstanding, Marni’s commitment to supporting young families has had a dramatic impact on the social fabric of the local community. Her efforts at the helm of Today’s Family, with the support of her dedicated team, have paved the way for a boon of child care resources, before-and-after school services, day camps, play opportunities and parenting workshops. At the core of her efforts is a desire to bring early childhood learning from the isolated environment of individual homes and into the light of day, where it can be celebrated and supported by the community at large.

As with any job, parenting is easier when surrounded by others who understand the day-to-day challenges. That’s why in Marni’s ideal world, parents do not lie awake at night worrying about day care or floundering with an ineffective network of social support. Instead, Marni yearns to bring back the caring, supportive neighbourhoods that at least on an emotional level, are reminiscent of a time when people left their doors unlocked and kids ran around outside.

“I have a desire to bring back a sense of community, an opportunity for young children, their parents and caregivers to be more connected,” says this wife and mother of three. “Kids need to be secure in their own neighbourhoods, knowing

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there are groups in their communities who have their best interests at heart.”

Efforts to build those groups have been remarkably successful, thanks to the unwavering dedication of staff and board members who share the vision of a healthy community. Today’s Family, which was once a small agency with a $500,000 budget and a skeletal staff, has blossomed into an organization that currently commands an $8.7 million budget and delivers an innovative array of programs to over 4,000 children and families each year. Support is also provided by an extensive network of private, municipal and provincial organizations, all working together to enrich the lives of local families.

It takes a village to raise a child, according to the African proverb, but Marni’s experience has taught her that it also takes education and funding to raise the village. Fortunately, Mohawk College has been an essential part of her learning curve.

“When I started my two-year Early Childhood Education (ECE) diploma at Mohawk, I knew I needed something practical, at least at the start,” Marni explains. “I needed to focus on early

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childhood development and the milestones that kids go through, while developing the foundation that would give me a good background from which to move forward into an administrative career. My two years at Mohawk were great, and many of my colleagues are people I graduated with. Twenty-five years later, we’ve been able to take our vision at Mohawk and build it into a strong organization with a can-do attitude.”

Following her graduation from Mohawk in 1982, Marni pursued courses at McMaster University and Sheridan College, along with a variety of professional training opportunities offered by neighbouring service organizations.

Her long list of career achievements in the years since graduation speaks to her dedication and passion for children – a calling that’s been evident since her high school days, when she’d stop to chat with youngsters she passed on the sidewalk.

Some of Marni’s proudest achievements at Today’s Family include the expansion of Family Day Care into Burlington, the development of an immensely popular Mobile Toy Lending Program, a nanny referral service, caregiver accreditation

COVER STORY programs and the growth of licensed, inhome child care. Under her leadership, the organization has also launched a Supervised Visitation and Exchange Program, delivered Adventure Day Camps in neighbouring parks and conservation areas, and led the local administration of successful provincial efforts such as the Healthy Babies, Healthy Children Program and the Ontario Early Years Centres at numerous locations across the region.

“Every year, I was involved in the development of another service in our community,” explains Marni. “Today’s Family started with licensed home child care programs, but it was cool to see where we could take it from there. Even back then, we had ideas of supporting families differently.”

The innovative nature of Marni’s approach is evident in the wide variety of the programs that fall under the service umbrella of Today’s Family. A recent achievement of which the team is especially proud is the opening of the Waterdown Early Years Centre in a wonderfully preserved Victorian home just outside of Hamilton. Here, among the block towers, craft stations and tea parties, a variety of services have flourished into one seamless system designed to meet the needs of families on what feels like their home turf. Nurses, nutritionists, speech pathologists and the like are available for on-site screening and consultation, saving parents the time and stress of trekking back and forth across town; in cases where potential problems are identified, support services are available and immediate.

Enrichment opportunities abound as children interact and create alongside visiting artists. Unlike a traditional preschool environment, the learning here is not structured and rushed, but unfolds naturally at the child’s own pace. Kids are invited to make sense of the world in their own way, while building a sense of themselves within the world.

“The families love it – they feel that it’s their own,” she says with a smile.

For Marni, the next logical step is to grow this successful microcosm into the greater community, starting with the school system. She currently has her sights set on connecting child care programs with neighbouring schools, in an effort to smooth the transition from early learning into Junior and Senior Kindergarten. Her plans are taking root in the form of a community vegetable garden, cultivated

just steps from the Hamilton Children’s Centre. The chance to sow, weed and reap with the help of the surrounding school community has shown enormous potential for bringing both young families and seniors together with school-aged kids, giving everyone involved the chance to feel validated. Here, mentoring relationships grow along with the seedlings.

“A s e a r l y c h i l d h o o d educators, it’s time for us to start thinking differently. When we incorporate youth into our program, we’re giving them the chance to be role models and inviting them to feel connected by doing something meaningful with the children. They may be gardening, playing basketball, or music – it’s whatever gets them engaged.”

As new programs take shape, so does a broader vision for building even more vibrant communities.

“I can feel myself starting to push these programs differently,” Marni says. “When I look at the big picture, I want our child care centres to be welcoming to the neighbourhood, even just a few mornings a week. I want families to feel welcome to come in and spend the morning with us, because the facilities are already here. If we are successful, we have the opportunity to increase the supports in our neighbourhood and make the day richer for both child care workers and parents. The educators have a chance to share their skills and develop them in a different way by responding to parents, and the feedback they receive helps to ensure that our programs are universal, meeting the needs of the various families involved.”

In February of this year, Marni received the highest provincial honour and was recognized with an Ontario Premier’s Award for College Graduates in the Community Services category, in recognition of her advocacy on behalf of children and families.

Her extensive list of accolades honouring her ongoing contributions as a community leader include a Week of the Child - Children’s Service Award in 2000, and three years later, the United Way Chair of the Board of Directors Award.

Marni addressed graduates of the Faculty of Health Sciences and Human Services at Mohawk’s Convocation ceremonies in 2004, and was awarded the Children’s Service Pin Award by the Association of Early Childhood Educators of Ontario. In 2005, Marni was also a proud recipient of Mohawk’s Alumni of Distinction Award.

As of this spring, Today’s Family was also a not-for-profit finalist for the Outstanding Business Achievement Award bestowed by the Greater Hamilton Chamber of Commerce. For Marni, this distinction is especially meaningful because it gave Today’s Family the chance to be nominated as an organization.

“For us, it’s a chance to be recognized as a significant employer and a player in the community,” she reflects. “It’s about being known not just as a charity, but as a solid, responsible organization, and that kind of recognition feels good.”

Today’s Family is enjoying, alongside local children, the chance to feel honoured, connected, and a celebrated part of the community. And as Marni can tell you, that’s what building good neighbourhoods is all about.

M O H AW K CO L L EGE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION | alumni.mohawkcollege.c a

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Around Campus Mohawk takes up residence in

Second Life HAMILTON - Mohawk College has bought an island and built a state-of-the-art home in four months to connect with prospective students from around the world.

Mohawk has opened its virtual campus in Second Life.

Second Life is a 3-D online digital world that is imagined, created and owned by more than 500,000 “residents”.

Mohawk joins a rapidly growing number of more than 17,000 “landowners” who have set up shop in Second Life, including IBM, Sears, Nike, Toyota and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Reuter’s has a Second Life news bureau and Sweden has announced plans to open a virtual embassy.

Mohawk’s virtual home is modelled after the i-Wing at its Fennell Campus in Hamilton, and features two interactive photo galleries. One gallery profiles students and the second gallery is a Mohawk College 40th anniversary exhibition. The facility also has links to online versions of Mohawk’s full-time and continuing education program calendars.

“At Mohawk, we are always looking for innovative ways to stay connected with current students and to reach out to prospective students,” says Mohawk President MaryLynn West-Moynes. “Mohawk is taking our conversations to a new dimension by creating a virtual world where anyone and everyone can socialize and learn more about what Mohawk

has to offer.” Mohawk’s web design team has created online characters, or avatars, to talk with visitors at the facility.

Mohawk built its virtual facility in partnership with Wayne MacPhail, a part-time college professor and president of new media company w8nc Inc. Construction on the 65,500 square metre island began last October. Mohawk’s island (coordinates 147,201,30) is located on Second Life’s InfoIsland Archipelago.

Go directly to Mohawk’s island (users are prompted to download Second Life software if required) http://slurl.com/secondlife/mohawk%20College/147/201/30

To help celebrate Mohawk's 40th anniversary this fall, we're looking to showcase 40 incredible graduates.

Mohawk's Incredible 40 at 40 will recognize alumni who have inspired learning, leadership and citizenshsip within their profession and in their community.

To nominate an alumna or alumnus, please send their name and a brief overview of their accomplishments and contributions to: Wendy Makey, Alumni Relations wendy.makey@mohawkcollege.ca A committee will review all nominations and Mohawk's Incredible 40 at 40 will be announced in the new year.

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Mohawk graduate is Canada’s top carpentry apprentice Mohawk graduate Teddy Lourenco is Canada’s top carpentry apprentice after winning first place at this year’s National Carpentry, Drywall and Millwright Apprenticeship Contest.

The 28-year-old carpenter went headto-head with nine of the best carpentry apprentices from eight provinces. The 2006 national contest was held in Hamilton and hosted by Local 18 Carpenters’ Union and the Millwright Local 1916.

Teddy, currently working with Barclay

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Construction, earned his journeyman status after graduating from Mohawk in the spring of 2006 as the top apprentice in his class for general carpentry. Teddy graduated from Mohawk’s Architectural Technology program in 2003.

“Teddy was an outstanding student during his time at Mohawk and we are proud of his remarkable accomplishments at the National Carpentry, Drywall and Millwright Apprenticeship Contest,” says Mohawk President MaryLynn West-Moynes.

M O H AW K CO L L EGE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION | alumni.mohawkcollege.c a

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Around Campus

Brantford Campus

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upporting Brantford’s economic growth and prosperity is the focus of Mohawk’s strategic revitalization plan. For the 2,405 Mohawk alumni who live in Brantford, expect to see big things happening soon at your college.

Making Brantford the home for two provincially recognized Centres of Excellence and doubling enrolment of full-time and apprenticeship students are among the strategies being proposed in a strategic revitalization plan being put forward by Mohawk College.

“Mohawk is proud to have been a part of Brantford and Brant County for the past 37 years and contributing directly to the community’s economic growth and prosperity,” says President MaryLynn West-Moynes. “We look forward to working closely with our partners in industry, education and government to build on that legacy.”

Mohawk’s strategic revitalization plan was developed in consultation with the community through a series of town hall meetings, one-on-one interviews and surveys last fall. Mohawk also conducted a thorough environmental scan to identify emerging industry and employment trends. “Our plan responds to the needs of employers and the community by leveraging Mohawk’s unique strengths 24

as a college,” says MaryLynn. “Mohawk is committed to serving employers and students in Brantford.”

The plan calls for doubling enrolment at Mohawk Brantford to nearly 1,900 fulltime and 450 apprenticeship students by 2011 through: • Establishing Centres of Excellence in Advanced Graphic Design Manufacturing and Public Safety and Security. The centres would draw students from across Ontario and Canada to Brantford for a unique learning experience.

• Expanding existing Business and Communications programs at Brantford and launching new programs in Journalism, Food Processing and Waste Management • Expanding Mohawk’s School of Human Services at Brantford through the addition of 40 Child and Youth Worker students.

• Expanding Mohawk’s apprenticeship programs at Brantford by 125 per cent by 2011.

• Expanding Continuing Education courses and Corporate Training Solutions programs and workshops.

Mohawk Brantford currently provides a quality education to 918 full-time students, 200 apprenticeship students, 1,000 adult learners and 1,570 continuing education registrants.

“Even more students will have the

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Written by Jay Robb

opportunity to go to college in Brantford and to graduate to success,” says Carolyn Gray, Mohawk Vice President of Lifelong Learning and Brantford. Nine out of 10 Mohawk students are working within six months of graduation and 90 per cent of employers report being satisfied or very satisfied with the Mohawk graduates they have hired.

The revitalization plan also proposes strategies for raising Mohawk’s profile in Brantford and strengthening partnerships and relationships with the community.

“The message we heard through our consultations is that Brantford and Brant County want Mohawk to be a part of their community, so we will be looking at ways of getting more involved as a college with our students and our staff,” says Carolyn.

In mid-March, Mohawk College’s Board of Governors fully supported the revitalization plan and directed the college to begin working on an implementation plan that would prioritize strategies and provide detailed costing for the proposed initiatives.

“Mohawk Brantford is home to great students and great staff,” says MaryLynn.

“We are looking forward to building on our strengths and successes and moving forward to help make Brantford an even greater city in which to work, live and play.”

Around AroundCampus Campus In response to industry need and building on Mohawk College’s unique strengths, the college’s revitalization plan for Brantford and Brant County calls for establishing two Centres of Excellence that would attract students from throughout the region and province.

Mohawk’s Advanced Graphic Design Manufacturing Centre would offer students a wide range of programs in graphic design, print and packaging technologies. Enrolment would grow from 251 to 506 full-time students by 2011, representing an increase of 101.5 per cent. In addition to current programs, new programs would be offered including preparatory art and packaging graphics, as well as packaging, graphics and business management and a four-year apprenticeship program in Packaging Equipment Mechanics.

For more on Mohawk’s Graphic Design Production programs, go to:

BUILDING

on a long-standing partnership Mohawk College has been a cornerstone for post-secondary education in Brantford since 1970. Among the programs that Mohawk currently offers at the Elgin Street Campus and Odeon Centre in downtown Brantford are: • Police Foundations, Law & Security Administration Private Security and Advanced Security Management • Graphic Design Production with three streams -- Creative, Digital and Packaging • Comic Design and Scripting (post- graduate certificate) • Public Relations (post-graduate certificate) • Business • General Arts & Science • Personal Support Worker • Instructor for the Blind & Visually Impaired (Orientation & Mobility, Rehabilitation Teaching) More than 480 Brantford residents are also gaining a quality education at Mohawk’s other campuses, with 429 full-time students attending Mohawk’s Fennell Campus in Hamilton, 27 students attending the Mohawk-McMaster Institute for Applied Health Sciences on the Campus of McMaster University

http://www.mohawkcollege.ca/ dept/brantford/graphdes/index.asp Mohawk’s Public Safety and Security Centre would build on existing programs by introducing a new virtual judgmental training room, a use of force training room, an advanced security management work lab, an interview room, and adding new programs over the two subsequent years that are based on the construction of a rappel tower and an expanded physical fitness area. The Advanced Police Studies post-graduate certificate to be offered in September 2008, will meet the training needs of private sector agencies in relation to Ontario Bill 159—Private Security and Investigative Services Act. Mohawk will further develop business plans to introduce a Fitness Instructor/ Sports Management program and a Paramedic/Emergency Preparedness program. Enrolment at the centre would grow from 592 to 890 full-time students by 2011 (an increase of 86 per cent).

For more on Mohawk’s Public Safety and Security programs, go to: http://www.mohawkcollege.ca/ calendar/artSciComm/Security.html M O H AW K CO L L EGE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION | alumni.mohawkcollege.c a

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Around Campus IAHS Campus

Robotic Clients Give Hands-On Practice Written by Pat Duxbury

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hey breathe, cough, wheeze, speak and they can even deliver a baby.

But are they alive? No – they are life-sized computerized mannequins which provide nursing students with an opportunity to practise assessments and clinical skills in a laboratory setting before they reach human clients.

Wi t h $ 6 0 0 , 0 0 0 i n p rov i n c i a l government funding, Mohawk’s School of Health Sciences has purchased a family of the robo-clients including babies, children and male and female adults.

These anatomically-correct mannequins mimic a variety of bodily conditions that might be experienced by an actual client.

They also feature body cavities which can be filled with fluids to practise inserting of tubes and arms on which one can simulate starting an intravenous line.

All colleges and universities in Ontario that deliver nursing programs now have clinical simulation labs. Mohawk College purchased mannequins based on research regarding the best fit for our nursing programs as well as our other health sciences programs.

Mohawk was well positioned to incorporate these mannequins into their already well-developed Learning Resource Centre (LRC). In fact, Mohawk College had the first Nursing Resource Centre in the college system, modelled on the former centre at St. Joseph’s School of Nursing in Hamilton. Those nursing students who graduated before 2000, will remember the LRC in the basement of Chedoke Campus, which occasionally had a flood! The move to our new campus at the Mohawk-McMaster Institute for Applied Health S c i e n c e s , o n t h e 26

grounds of McMaster Un i v e r s i t y, g a v e us the op p o r t u n i t y Professor Patricia Duxbury and student Didi Ngeleka work with one of Mohawk to expand into College’s computerized mannequins which provide a safe way to practise a 30-bed mini hospital. This includes a nursing station, love the way they can actually hear lung lab demonstration rooms and a fully sounds that mimic asthma, pneumonia furnished apartment complex with or congestive heart failure. functioning kitchen, bathroom, bedroom All of the simulated clients can be and living area. programmed or controlled by remote There are approximately 600 students to respond to the actions of the students in the BScN program, 400 in the Practical in various ways. A control room in Nursing program as well as Medical the lab allows the instructor to watch Radiation Sciences students who are the students and manipulate the using the clinical simulation lab and the mannequin’s responses to mimic what robotic clients for learning. might occur in a real-life situation.

The mannequins enhance the clinical The client’s lung sounds or heart valve training for nursing students. “This sounds can be changed or the newborn simulation lab provides an opportunity infant can change from a pink to blue for students to develop technical colour, requiring students to think on competence in a safe area with repetitive their feet and take the necessary actions. work,” says Marilyn Bieksa, Associate The learning sessions can be recorded on Dean Health Sciences. “The pressures CD, allowing students to watch how they of time constraints are absent and more performed and reacted. importantly the fear of inadvertently Nursing education must change as the harming a client can be eliminated.” country moves from a traditional acuteThe simulated mannequins have care, illness-treatment model of health earned glowing reviews from both care, to one that focuses on keeping nursing faculty and students over the people well. We are very excited to be past year. Faculty have integrated the able to creatively use these new resources mannequins into teaching both theory to prepare our nurses for the challenges and clinical practice and they say that of the 21st century. it makes for such a realistic experience.

If you are planning a nursing reunion They report that students are so much and would like to have a group tour with more confident when they are performing demonstrations of our robotic clients, assessments and skills on actual clients in please feel free to contact Patricia Duxbury the clinical area. Students have so much Professor, Practical Nursing: fun learning whether it be in independent pat.duxbury@mohawkcollege.ca. practice time or in the classroom. They

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Continuing Education is Learning for Life

Register Now for Continuing Education! Expand your horizons with more than 1,700 program/course options: • Global Languages • Engineering Technology

• Creative Arts • Distance Education

For more details on these and all the exciting career options visit cecat.mohawkcollege.ca STUDENTS AND LEARNING ARE AT THE HEART OF ALL WE DO

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CO L L EGE OM O HHAW K A W ALUMNI K CASSOCIATION O L | alumni.mohawkcollege.c L E G E . Ca

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Around Campus

LEARNING EXCELLENCE PROJECT Written by Catherine Drea

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n every field Mohawk Alumni work in, you are likely to be involved in – or at least aware of - some form of quality assurance. Quality is something we all expect, if not demand, when we pay for a product or service, so it’s no surprise that most businesses and industries spend lots of time and money to ensure, and to assure customers, that they offer quality. Quality assurance is a process that verifies the existence and effectiveness of policies and procedures that ensure expected levels of quality are achieved.

The field of education – at all levels and all around the world – is applying quality assurance principles. In the post-secondary system, ensuring that certificates, diplomas and degrees fit into comprehensive qualifications frameworks does more than just satisfy stakeholder demand for accountability. It also creates clear pathways to lifelong learning (credit transfer, credential recognition, and recognition of international learning), and helps colleges and their graduates adapt to social, economic, and cultural change while contributing to economic growth and sustainability.

Since many alumni hire Mohawk graduates, you might be interested to know that, over the past three years, Mohawk College has been quietly involved in developing and implementing our own quality assurance system: the Learning Excellence Project is a key component.

Mohawk’s Board of Governors recognized the significance and potential of quality assurance in the community college, and, rather than simply imposing quality directives, made a strategic decision to develop a quality culture at our college. In 2004, the Board allocated funds to the Learning Excellence Project, and Catherine Drea, Vice President, Students, Access and Success, became Corporate Sponsor of the project. Since 28

then, the following faculty members have contributed to this multi-disciplinary team: Scott Bunyan, Roberta Burke, Ali Cheaib, Jim Higgins, Lynda Morgan Murdoch, as well as Catharine Ozols, JoAnne Procter, and Marla Robinson - the three Mohawk grads profiled below.

T he Lear ning Exce l lence team conceptualized and built a mapping process to assess the degree to which Mohawk College programs comply with the quality framework established by the Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. Provincial Program Standards specify targeted outcomes based on what students can do when they complete courses and programs - rather than faculty inputs such as content and delivery. Essential Employability Skills outcomes and a General Education

Marla Robinson component are integral to each program standard. A comprehensive Credentials Framework defines Ontario College credentials (Certificate, Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Graduate Certificate) in terms of the breadth, depth, and complexity of learning demonstrated by graduates at each level.

The fact that it is faculty-driven has ensured that the Mohawk College mapping process and related program self-assessment tools take into account the practicalities of learning and teaching.And the results? Over 450 faculty members in more than 70 programs have verified that

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most Mohawk College programs already comply with or exceed the requirements of Ontario’s quality framework. For programs for which no published Provincial Program Standard exists, the process has also involved representatives of industry – including some alumni - in developing Mohawk-specific “standards”.

For the few programs in which gaps have been identified, mapping has produced a clear blueprint for curriculum revision to ensure compliance and promote continued quality enhancement.

The mapping process has also produced some valuable by-products. A new course outline model describes the learning in each course in terms of learning outcomes.

This makes it clear to students how accomplishing the outcomes of each course contributes to their ability to achieve the graduate-level outcomes in the Provincial Program Standard, which describe the complex performances essential to success in their fields. In a spinoff project currently underway, a team of dedicated support staff across the college is piloting an online system for creating, managing and distributing course outlines that will not only provide Mohawk students with a clear description of all learning in their program of studies, but also streamline operations such as book ordering.

Information gathered in the mapping process feeds into Mohawk’s redesigned formal Program Review process, and is helping the college prepare for a formal audit: the Program Quality Assurance Process Audit (PQAPA). The audit serves as the provincial college system’s self-regulatory quality assurance mechanism at the institutional level.

The Ontario College Quality Assurance Service assures quality of new programs through the Credentials Validation Service (CVS). Both consider measures of program quality selected from among internationally recognized best practices;

Around Campus criteria by which quality is assessed are limited to those that contribute to, measure, or correlate with student learning and success.

Ultimately, data produced by program mapping can be mined and correlated with Key Performance Indicators to help Mohawk identify examples of our own best practices. Our mapping process and the tools created to implement it form the basis for an innovative, continuous program quality monitoring and improvement system capable of supporting an ongoing process of curriculum evaluation and strategic revision.

Mohawk’s leadership team recognizes that the mapping process developed by the Learning Excellence Project is transferable, and that the methodology has the potential to inform re-engineering of academic and service workflow as well as curriculum.

Currently, Mohawk is exploring the commercial potential of applications of our process outside the college across a wide range of disciplines and organizations.

Catharine Ozols, a graduate and former Coordinator of the Advertising program, became involved in the Learning Excellence Project, first as the program’s Mapping Leader and a Subject Expert, then as a facilitator on the team.

“As a teacher, I’ve learned so much by

being involved in Learning Excellence.

We’ve been challenged to make our courses, our programs and, ultimately, our college better able to deliver what Mohawk graduates need to be successful.”

Jo-Anne Procter is a proud graduate of the Business – Marketing program, and the proud mother of two Mohawk alumni. Jo-Anne and two of her three sons (graduates of Marketing and TV Broadcasting) have gone on to further education; she reports that they all “make daily use of the hands-on, practical learning achieved in the process of earning our Mohawk diplomas.”

The Learning Excellence Project affirmed Jo-Anne’s “belief in the many good things happening at Mohawk. I valued the opportunity to work with many dedicated and creative faculty who care deeply for program quality and for student success.” Jo-Anne has moved from the project team to a role in Curriculum Development in which she continues to work with faculty across the college.

For Marla Robinson, involvement in the Learning Excellence Project initially as a participant and subsequently as a facilitator has served to further reinforce the importance of student engagement as a cornerstone to academic success.

As a Coordinator and graduate of the Mechanical Engineering Technician program, Marla is well aware of the

Catharine Ozols knowledge, skills and attitudes required for success both professionally and personally.

Marla is confident that “Learning Excellence establishes the framework for providing students with clear performance expectations while ensuring that their program of studies meets or exceeds program standards. This commitment helps us to better serve our students, graduate employers and community.”

travelling this summer & need a place to stay...

2 bedroom kitchenette suites, free continental breakfast, meeting & recreational facilities. (With facilities like this, we’re worth checking into.) locations: brampton, brockville, hamilton, kamloops, king city, kitchener, niagara-on-the-lake, oakville, oshawa, ottawa, toronto, welland, windsor M O H AW K CO L L EGE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION | alumni.mohawkcollege.c a

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Varsity Fall Recap MOHAWK MOUNTAINEERS

2006 RUGBY CHAMPIONS

What a turn around for Mohawk rugby! After missing the playoffs the previous year, the 2006-07 version of the Mountaineers steamrolled the opposition and went on to win the OCAA Championship. Mohawk went 7-0 in the regular season, outscoring their opponents 286-40. They downed Seneca 41-8 in the semi final and nipped Humber 11-7 in the OCAA Gold Medal game.

Mohawk’s Alex Paris was named Coach of the Year, and Centre, Brian Pearman, and Kicker, James Cumpson, were league All-Stars.

Cumpson was also the leading scorer in the league.

The men’s soccer squad didn’t lose until the final two games of the regular season, but missed the playoffs. They also had two victories, but four draws hurt them in the end. The Mountaineers had two regional All-Stars in forward Silvano Rajkovic and defender Joe Grieci.

The Mohawk women’s soccer team’s hopes of a berth in the OCAA Championship were dashed October 21, when they ran into a very good team and very poor playing conditions. Durham scored a 6-0 decision in a regional crossover playoff game which was played in a quagmire after considerable rainfall prior to the contest in Oshawa.

The Mohawk women finished fourth in their region with a 4-2-2 record and forward Andrea Bonitatibus and midfielder Ali Bettger were named regional All-Stars.

Silvano Rajkovic and Joe Grieci

For more information, please contact Bernetta Scime bernetta.scime@mohawkcollege.ca or call 905-575-2004 Ali Bettger and Andrea Bonitatibus

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M O H AW K CO L L E G E | I N TO U C H / S PR I NG 2 007

Varsity Fall Recap Written by Al Craig

They would have preferred a different colour, but Mohawk came home from the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association Women’s Fastball Championship in Windsor October 21 with a bronze medal. It was the 12th bronze for the Mountaineers in the last 15 years. They also captured the gold medal in 2001. The Mountaineers had a respectable 6-6 regular season record after losing three of their first four games. Mohawk had two league AllStars in pitcher/infielder Jenny Koschanow and centre fielder/catcher Dana Steckle.

Andre Simon was Mohawk’s top runner, finishing 14th at the OCAA Cross Country Championships in Toronto October 28.

Mohawk finished 8th in the men’s team event.

Margaret Myjak of Mohawk finished 32nd in the women’s five kilometre race. Mohawk was 11th in the women’s team event.

Women’s Alumni Basketball Game

Tara Bonitatibus, Margaret Myjak, Ali Bettger and Andrea Bonitatibus

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CANUSA Games Top left: Julie McClement, Keine Pierre, Rachelle Moore and Iulianna Raducanu. Top right: Mario “Motzie” Suffoletta and Chris Walker.

Are you a former CANUSA participant?

Would you like to relive all those happy memories?

If so, we would like to see you at CANUSA’S 50th Anniversary!

What can you do as a CANUSA Alumni?

• Register on the Alumni Page at www.canusagames.com • Send us your stories, pictures, programs, shirts, medals and other memorabilia for display during CANUSA Weekend • Participate in Alumni Events • Volunteer for the 50th CANUSA Weekend • Rekindle old friendships • Contact us with your ideas!

For more information and other inquiries: • 905-546-2424 x2537 • canusa@hamilton.ca • Visit our website www.canusagames.com

Mary “Gallagher” Begadon, Chirs “Gale” Walker, Mary Hrycay, Liz “Gale” Laforme, Tracey “Hudson” Falasca, Jenn McNaughton, Stacey “Adams” Jonker, and Shelley Lang.

M O H AW K CO L L EGE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION | alumni.mohawkcollege.c a

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M O H AW K CO L L E G E | I N TO U C H / S PR I NG 2 007

Mohawk College Association of Continuing Education Students News Mohawk College Association of Continuing Education Students (MCACES) an association served by a Board of Directors and its staff, provides direction and services to enhance and enrich the educational experience of all Continuing Education Students.

MCACES STAFF Fennell Campus Lynda McDermott Manager, Continuing Education Student Activities and Resource for MCACES Room F114C, 905-575-2349 lynda.mcdermott@mohawkcollege.ca Sandi Johnston Assistant & Peer Tutor Coordinator Room F114, 905-575-2176 sandi.johnston@mohawkcollege.ca Michelle Dubeck Evening Programmer Room F114, 905-575-2176 michelle.dubeck@mohawkcollege.ca Lidia Siino Employment Advisor Room F116E, 905-575-1212 ext. 3576 lidia.siino@mohawkcollege.ca

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earning for life has never been easier, thanks to the ease and accessibility of services provided by the MCACES department.

The Mohawk College Association of Continuing Education Students (MCACES) is the student association for students enrolled in evening and distance education courses through Mohawk College.

This unique organization is the only one of its kind within the post-secondary system. Its purpose is to ensure students continuing their education have all the assistance they need to be successful with their respective courses.

“Our continuing education students come from all walks of life, from fulltime workers looking for a career transition or upgrade, to students enrolled in leisure programs. With over 2,000 course offerings per semester, we

exist to ensure our students have the best chances of being successful, which is why we provide so many services.” says Lynda McDermott, Manager and Resource for CE Student Activities. “We are governed by a board of directors who are current Continuing Education Students. They understand the night class and weekend class culture because they are a part of it.”

Continuing Education students have several free services to choose from, including orientation assistance, peer tutor program, and assistance with job search strategies. Employees of MCACES are located at all campuses and work evening hours to coincide with evening programming.

For complete information about how MCACES can enhance your time at Mohawk College, please contact the MCACES employee at your campus.

Brantford Campus Sara Colautti Brantford Programmer Room B101, 519-758-6047 sara.colautti@mohawkcollege.ca Stoney Creek Campus Lindsay Dyment Stoney Creek Programmer Room 3, 905-575-1212 ext.5005 or 905-575-2537 lindsay.dyment@mohawkcollege.ca McMaster Campus: Institute for Applied Health Sciences Amy Scott IAHS Programmer Room 105 905-540-4247 ext.26411 amy.scott@mohawkcollege.ca

MCACES Slate of Directors 2007-2008 Arun Jacob Ashleigh Cipolla Carmine DeLuca Giovanna Labbe Jennifer Ireson Chartrand

Jady Klyve Joan Gibson Karen Logan Leslie Forest Rose Marie McCarron

M O H AW K CO L L EGE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION | alumni.mohawkcollege.c a

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Mohawk Students’ Association News

Kim Van Louwe’s 10th Anniversary Celebration Kim Van Louwe

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Written by Jayne Woods

anuary 29, 2007 was a very special evening for the Executive Director of the Mohawk Students’ Association.

Alumni Hall was filled with staff, student leaders, past Board members and college staff when the un-suspecting Kim Van Louwe entered the room to cheering and applause.

We were all together to congratulate h i m o n h i s 1 0 t h Anniversary with the MSA. The speechless Kim, (and for those who know him, that is very unusual), walked down the stairs in shock as folks put their arms around him and congratulated him on 10 years of a fantastic job. Past MSA Presidents in attendance included Christine Kennedy, Ryan Peters, Tom Behroozi, John Craig, Nathan Fehrman, Tansy Ko, Anthony Cascella, Kyle Smith and the current President, Jason Lee. Student leaders from the past approached me with statements such as “Kim was my mentor,” “Kim was my inspiration for leadership,” “He’s the

best,” “The MSA is very fortunate to have such a special person as its Executive Director.” It was clearly obvious to everyone in the room, Kim Van Louwe truly deserved this celebration for all his hard work and dedication to the students at Mohawk College and the staff and student leaders, both past and present, of the MSA. Kim was born in Tillsonburg, and raised in Hamilton. He attended the University of Waterloo and earned his Bachelor of Environmental Studies, Honours Urban and Regional Planning.

Kim then decided to attend McMaster for Master of Arts Program, Geography.

He has worked as a Planner (RPP in Ontario), Researcher, Program Coordinator, Manager of Policy Development and Executive Director, to name a few. However in 1997, the Mohawk Students’ Association was lucky enough to hire this amazing individual to lead our pack. His volunteer work

has included President of the Children’s Aid Society, Member of ‘Making Services Work For People’ panel, President of the Brant County Community Legal Clinic and member of the Board of Directors, Brantford YM-YWCA NonProfit Homes Association. Did we know what we were getting into back in 1997 when the MSA Board of Directors hired him? In the past 10 years we have learned that our Executive Director is kind, compassionate, fair, honest, humorous, supportive, and quite smart!

Food was in abundance, speeches were heard, and there was laughter and smiles everywhere. This was a very special evening for a very special man. Our goal was to make a memory and I think everyone in attendance will hold this evening close to their hearts.

Kim currently resides in Winona with his wife Linda, and three cats -- Trooper, Bernie and Joey.

Thanks Kim, for a great 10 years!

Christine Kennedy, Nathan Fehrman, Ryan Peters, Tom Behroozi, John Craig, Kyle Smith, Kim Van Louwe, Anthony Cascella and Tansy Ko 34

M O H AW K CO L L E G E | I N TO U C H / S PR I NG 2 007

Mohawk Students’ Association News THE MSA PLANTS PINK TULIP BULBS FOR BREAST CANCER RESEARCH

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n Wednesday, October 18, 2006, students and staff of the Mohawk Students’ Association planted over 400 pink tulip bulbs in front of the Student Centre to raise awareness for Breast Cancer Research.

In Association with Avon’s Breast Cancer Crusade, (which has raised over $12 million towards Breast Cancer Research) the MSA also recruited our dear friend Sue Johanson to take part in planting bulbs. It took a little more than an hour to plant all the bulbs; however come spring we will hopefully see a sea of pink tulips, with the heartfelt reminder of why they are there.

M O H AW K CO L L EGE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION | alumni.mohawkcollege.c a

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Keeping In Touch

Graduates of 1970s

KEEPING IN TOUCH

Civil Engineering Technology Ray Baker, 1975

Recently appointed as Director of Airfield Engineering for the Canadian Air Force, which encompasses all Construction, Realty Asset Management, Environmental/Hazmat response, and Force Generation of Construction Engineering Officers and Tradespeople for deployment within Canada and abroad. Married to Carole for 30 years and has two children, Robert attending the University of Manitoba, and Melissa attending Loyalist College. My career has taken me to jobs and postings across Canada, four years in Germany, deployment during the First Gulf War, and a six month deployment with the United Nations in Ethiopia.

Graduates of 1980s Law and Security Administration Michael Dunn, 1987

Business Administration Sarah Alexander, 1987

My wife and I met on the Student Council in 1987; Sarah was VP Academic who was instrumental in encouraging the college to change its grading system from a 1-4 rating to percentage/a-d system. I worked for the Halton Regional Police serving from 1988 to 2005 and recently transferred to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in Surrey, BC. We have three children aged 13, 8 and 5. We have many fond memories of Mohawk (and the old Arnie) and where we started our life together!

Computer Systems Technology Zenin Skomorowski, 1982

Janet and I have three children; Keith 19, Natalia 17, and Peter 15, as of 2006. Janet has lots of flower gardens and I am into keeping tropical fish. Visit www.kwas.ca.

TV and Communications Media James Newstead, 1985

I am currently assisting my father and brother with the care of my mother. She had a stroke in June, and is now in a wheelchair. She has now been discharged and we’re hoping with time and good therapy, she will make a good recovery.

Protection of Personal Information From time to time, you may be contacted either by mail,

Relations. Mohawk College respects the privacy of its alumni and the sensitivity of personal

e-mail or phone by one of our services and benefits partners regarding one of our programmes.

information. All of our partners sign strict confidentiality agreements with us prior to receiving

Mohawk College is proud of its relationship with a number of trusted partners and service

any contact information.

providers who have an established record of treating personal information with care and provide

Should you wish to not be contacted about ser vices and b e n e f i t p r o g r a m s ,

valuable services and benefits to our alumni. We appreciate you taking the time to learn about

J U S T C A L L 9 0 5 - 5 7 5 - 2 2 5 8 o r e - m a i l alumni@mohawkcollege.ca and tell us you wish to OPT

the programmes and the latest offers available. We want to let you know that at no time will

OUT of affinity marketing plans. Thank you for your interest and your participation in the services

your name or contact information be shared with anyone not specifically authorized by Alumni

and programs provided by the Alumni Association and the Alumni Relations Department.

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M O H AW K CO L L E G E | I N TO U C H / S PR I NG 2 007

Keeping In Touch Graduates of 1990s

Packaging Management Technology Jennifer Noffke, 1999

IMT Gerry Boily, 1998

Gerry graduated from Brock University in physics and math in 04. He was married in 2005. Gerry is now working as a Teaching Assistant in the Physics Department at Brock.

Child and Youth Worker Karen Trundou (Clay), 1993

Business Accounting

Jennifer is currently an Account Manager for Corr-a-Box Packaging Limited in Rexdale ON. Jennifer started as their Corrugated Designer and in February of 2005 was asked to try her hand at sales.

Jennifer and her family are located in Pembroke ON. Jennifer recently came back from a vacation in Barbados where her boyfriend, Colin, of two years proposed. They have decided to get married back there next year. They are very excited!

Law and Security

Grant Trundou, 1997

Grant, Karen and their children, Kyle (7), Calin (5) and Paige (3) have moved! They are the proud new owners of Woodland Cedars Family Cottage Resort, just steps to Woodland Beach on Georgian Bay and 10 minutes from downtown Wasaga Beach. Visit Grant and Karen at www.woodlandcedars.com or email them at info@woodlandcedars.com (Of course discounts apply for all Mohawk Alumni) “Hello to all and we would love to hear from you.”

Advertising and Communications Media Jennifer Hughson, 2003

Computer Engineering Technologist Andrew Cumming, 2004

Jennifer and Andrew are getting married on September 27, 2007 in Timmons, Ontario. They both are living and working in Timmons.

Paul Lincoln Harrison, 1996

Currently I am living near Barrie with my dogs and running a security and investigation firm, P.H Loss Prevention Ltd., which I started in 1997. There are offices in both Barrie and Guelph.

Advertising – Creative Rebecca Gicante (Streeter), 1993

Greetings to all Mohawk Alumni!

I just wanted to mention that 2006 was an exciting year. I was married to Dan Gicante Saturday, September 9, 2006, at Beacon Harbourside in Jordan. We had a beautiful outdoor ceremony by the lake which was followed by a dinner reception. It was the perfect way to celebrate our new journey together as husband and wife!

Graduates of 2000s International Business Management David Gonzalez, 2006

Chemical Engineering Technology Sandra York, 2000

I just got married on November 4, 2006, to Michael York.

He is in the military stationed in Petawawa and will be going overseas to Afghanistan in August for month tour of duty. I am still working at the same place I was as soon as I graduated college and still love it.

Business Administration Shannon O’Gorman, 2006 Matthew Boshis, 2007

Shannon and Matthew got engaged on Oct. 21, 2006. They will be getting married on Feb. 29, 2008. Visit their website for more information: w w w . m y s p a c e . c o m / shannonandmatthew.

I’m an international student from Mexico and I had lots of help from Mohawk during my job search.

Industrial Relations Jessica Tinebra (Plant-Weir), 2006

Jessica Tinebra is pleased to announce the completion of her Human Resources Certificate program. Her next challenge is writing the National Knowledge Exam towards Certified Human Resource Professional (CHRP) designation.

Executive Office Administration Cynthia Huszarik, 2004

Getting married in June 2007 in Belleville, Ontario KEEP IN TOUCH email: alumni@mohawkcollege.ca

M O H AW K CO L L EGE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION | alumni.mohawkcollege.c a

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Looking Back

A Lasting Legacy Written by Dennis Campbell and Sara Colautti

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n memory of a colleague, a mentor and a friend, Mohawk College has established The Barbara Szpak Memorial Bursary. The Brantford Campus hosted a Fundraising Awards dinner in her memory with all proceeds going to the bursary.

Barbara’s dedication, commitment to serve, and passion for student success have contributed to the betterment of college life for Mohawk College students.

Her impact will be felt for many years to come.

Family, friends and colleagues spent an evening sharing fond memories of Barbara’s contributions to the Brantford Campus. Jady Klyve, Director on the Board of MCACES spoke on behalf of the Board and Lynda McDermott, Manager of the Mohawk College Association of Continuing Education Students stated:

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“I wanted to share with you some thoughts about Barb’s contribution to MCACES and Continuing Education students. Barb stood out as a person who evaluated the services she provided.

She would keep track of the number of CE catalogues that were distributed, the number of courses that were cancelled as well as those that ran. She would come up with strategies and solutions to increase enrollment and student satisfaction and then implement those solutions, because she cared. MCACES applauds your initiative to create the Barbara Szpak Memorial Award. We would like to share with you that we also plan to institute a fitting memorial by creating the “Barbara Szpak Spirit Award” for those Continuing Education students who come close to demonstrating the dedication and service to our community that Barb exemplified.”

M O H AW K CO L L E G E | I N TO U C H / S PR I NG 2 007

Proceeds from the evening (about $3,000) will go to the Barbara Szpak Memorial Award, which also will be matched by the Government of Ontario and their OTSS program (Ontario Trust for Student Support endowment).

Donation cards were distributed and the hope is to accumulate $10,000 to $15,000 in the Award’s fund to draw on each year.

The First award will be presented during the Brantford Campus Awards Ceremony March 2008 on the interest accumulated from the Barbara Szpak Memorial Fund. The award will be distributed to commendable students matching the criteria of the Award.

Should anyone be interested in making a donation towards this Award, please contact Ann Clark in the Development Office at the Fennell Campus at 905-575-1212 Ext. 3298 or ann.clark@mohawkcollege.ca.

Being a Mohawk College graduate has its perks!

Benefit from great services and programs available to our Mohawk Alumni.

Mohawk College Services • • • • • • •

Admittance to the gymnasium Access to the library for resources and lending materials Ability to participate in Campus Recreation programs Entrance to Open Access Computer labs Free Alumni photo I.D. card Access to Graduate Employment Services Access to Counselling Services

Discount Programs • Home, Auto and Travel insurance coverage by Johnson Insurance www.johnson.ca/mohawkalumni or 1-800-563-0677 • Mohawk College Mosaik Mastercard by Bank of Montreal (BMO) www.mosaikcard.com/offer - enter MOHALU - Alumni • Diploma and certificate frames by Leader Manufacturing www.degreeframes.com • Exclusive Mohawk College pricing of new & used Toyota vehicles, and service programs at Upper James Toyota www.upperjamestoyota.ca • Summer Travel & Conference Accommodations at Residence & Conference Centres www.residenceconferencecentres.com • Jostens Rings - Contact Area Rep Wally Barrow www.jostens.com / wally.barrow@jostens.com • Alumni Clothing and Gift Items http://alumni.mohawkcollege.ca

Events & Activities • • • •

Mohawk College Alumni Golf Classic – June 15, 2007 Homecoming 2007 – October 12 & 13, 2007 Annual General Meeting - October 13, 2007 25 Year Reunion for the Class of 1982 – October 13, 2007

Membership has its benefits!

As a Mohawk College Alumni Association Member, you can experience the benefits and advantages of two great insurance plans offered through partnership with Johnson Inc.

Preferred Service Home-Auto Plan Exceptional home-auto insurance products and services only Johnson Inc. can provide! www.johnson.ca/mohawkalumni 1-800-563-0677

MEDOC® Travel Insurance Plan Affordable Single-Trip and Annual plans.

Trip Cancellation, Interruption and Delay Insurance options available. www.johnson.ca/medoc 1-866-60-MEDOC (1-866-606-3362)

‘Insurance designed with you in mind.’

Policies primarily underwritten by Unifund Assurance Company. Unifund and Johnson Inc. share common ownership. This content is not meant to substitute or modify official insurance policy(s) and/or plan(s) wordings.

Certain conditions may apply. Due to the existence of provincial automobile insurance plans, only home insurance is available in BC, SK, and MB. MEDOC® is a Registered Trademark of Johnson Inc. MEDOC® is underwritten by Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Company of Canada and administered by Johnson Inc. Johnson Inc. and Royal & SunAlliance share common ownership.