Niagara College acknowledges that we are gathered on the shared traditional lands of the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee. We offer our sincere gratitude to them as the stewards of this land, which is protected by the Dish With One Spoon Wampum agreement’s three principles: to take only what you need, leave enough for others, and always keep the dish clean.
Today, many First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities from across Turtle Island continue to live and work in this territory. Acknowledging the peoples whose territory we are on, and the agreements that guide their stewardship of the land, reminds us to reflect on and respect their unique relationship to this land. It also is an invitation for all of us to identify and engage in actions that respect and reinforce our commitments to Truth and Reconciliation and Indigenous Rights, including the Colleges and Institutes Canada Indigenous Education protocol.
Letter from the Chair of the Board of Governors and President of Niagara College
On behalf of the Board of Governors and Niagara College, we are pleased to present the 2025-2026 Annual Report, highlighting significant accomplishments over the past year, including accolades and recognition earned by our students, employees, and alumni provincially and nationally. Niagara College is a special place to learn, work, and grow, and our Annual Report demonstrates who we are: student-focused, welcoming, trailblazing, and passionate.
Our Strategic Plan continues to guide our work as we advance the priorities of our Key Areas of Focus: Wholistic Student Experience, Academic Excellence, Global Reach, Alumni & Partner Engagement, Social Inclusion & Environmental Sustainability, and Organizational Excellence. Against a backdrop of extraordinary challenge and change for NC and the Canadian postsecondary sector driven by adjustments to the federal International Student Program, we are tremendously proud of the achievements and progress highlighted in this Annual Report.
We would like to thank our students for choosing Niagara College. We are committed to our mission and vision to enrich lives and fulfill dreams, and to provide you with an exceptional learning experience that prepares you to enter the workforce in industries and sectors that are critical to our nation’s economy and to thriving, healthy communities. Your passion and resilience fuels our Niagara College community, and your success bring us pride, energy, and optimism for the future. Our alumni are remarkable ambassadors of the College, who are leading and succeeding across Niagara, Canada, and around the globe.
We are grateful for the many friends and partners of the College – employers, community agencies, government, donors, alumni, volunteers, and provincial and national associations – who are integral to our success. We are fortunate to share an exceptional partnership with the Niagara College Student Administrative Council (NCSAC), with whom we collaborate in support of a first-in-class wholistic student experience.
Niagara College benefits greatly from the talents and expertise of the members of our Board of Governors, a valued group of professionals who volunteer their time to our Board and participate in community, government, and business events as representatives of the College. Our Board’s passion for the College is an invaluable asset as we continue to build on a legacy of success to grow and evolve for the future.
As we look back on 2025-2026 in this Annual Report, we hope you will gain a sense of NC Life and the inspiring energy that fills our campuses.
Lora Tisi Chair, Niagara College Board of Governors
Sean Kennedy President
We
are proud to recognize our 2025/2026 Board of Governors
The 2025-2026 Board of Governors, pictured with members of Niagara College’s Executive Team
Back row:
Vince Malvaso Vice President, College Operations
Chris McGrath Vice President, Students
Matt Giffen Governor
David Adames Governor
Sean Coote Vice President, Partnerships and Enterprises
Gord Arbeau Vice President, External Relations
Marc Nantel Vice President, Research, Innovation & Strategic Enterprises
Samantha Cormier Internal Governor (Student)
Klaus Reif Governor
Pam Lilley Governor
Andrew Harber Governor
Front row:
Shauna Gupta Internal Governor (Academic)
Dorita Pentesco Vice President, Enrolment
Fay Lim-Lambie Vice President, Academic
Lora Tisi Chair
Lynn Guerriero Governor
Sean Kennedy President
Linda Franklin Governor
Orel Ruiz Internal Governor (Administration)
Kate Hagen Internal Governor (Support)
Janet Allan Governor
Absent:
Rashmi Biswas Vice-Chair
Michael Mann Governor
Kevin Smith Governor
Advisory College Council
Chaired by President Sean Kennedy, the Advisory College Council (ACC) is a crossfunctional body whose purpose is to promote communication and consultation within the College. The ACC provides a forum through which students and employees can provide feedback regarding strategic issues and input to the President on matters of importance to students and employees.
In 2025-2026, the ACC provided valuable feedback on several key strategic initiatives including: government relations and advocacy, employee engagement events, models of student health and wellness service delivery, as well as budget and business plan strategies as the College adapts to changing enrolment realities in the Canadian postsecondary sector.
The 2025-2026 Council members are listed below with appreciation of their service to the Council:
Peter Almounauar NC Student Administrative Council
Alexis Apps NC Student Administrative Council
Kerry Bederski Enrolment Services
Baljit Bhamber Campus Safety
Maria Brigantino School of Business & Management
Pimnipa Chotipuksawan NC Student Administrative Council
Jeff Collee Facilities Management Services
Heather Craig Allied Health & Nursing
Jenn Dey Community and Employment Services
Marissa Ditto Enrolment Services
Fernando Gama International
Nathan Groenveld School of Business & Management
Joanne Maltby International
James Maur International
Ryan Morris Information Technology Services
Leah Neamtu School of Academic & Liberal Studies
Shanyn Porter School of Trades
Tom Price Alumni Relations
Ann Marie Raos School of Community Services
Paula Reile Research & Innovation
Sarah Rouillier School of Technology
Krishna SenGupta School of Business & Management Studies
Nimisha Sumathi Student Engagement
Tanmay Tondwal NC Student Administrative Council
Charles Voth School of English Language Studies
Vision, Mission and Strategic Plan
The College’s ambitious 2022-2027 Strategic Plan responds to a unique time in postsecondary education, marked by increased competition, rapid technological change, students who are more diverse and globally aware, and a community in economic recovery and in urgent need of a highly skilled and stable workforce.
The Strategic Plan articulates six areas of focus: wholistic student experience, academic excellence, global reach, alumni and partner engagement, social inclusion and environmental responsibility, and operational excellence. These areas of focus drive the College’s goals, actions, and accomplishments.
VISION MISSION
Enriching lives and fulfilling dreams.
To provide outstanding applied education and training for a changing world.
Wholistic Student Experience
NC hosted RESET (Reflect, Engage, Support, Empower, and Thrive): A Student Wellbeing Conference, designed to support students’ mental health and overall wellbeing. At the conference, 65 students participated in a full day of workshops, activities, and interactive experiences for their personal growth, self-awareness, and peer connection.
Student Engagement also launched a Speaker Series to connect students with professionals, including alumni, who offer real-world perspectives on leadership, resilience and career growth. The series featured Dr. Chris McGrath (NC’s VP, Students), Sarah Singleton (alumna and founder of Hype Gal Media), and Sarah Scott (Event Specialist, NC Community Relations and Events, alumna and hospitality leader), and a panel with alumni Laura Dodman (VP, Human Resources, CAA Niagara), Lai Hock Flores (RN, Niagara Health Marotta Family Hospital), Robert Francis Bernardo (Service Advisor and Licensed Automotive Technician, Henley Honda), and Javier Carranza (Marketing Coordinator, SWS Warning Lights Inc.).
NC marked Mental Health Week with free wellness activities for students and employees to encourage open and honest conversations about mental health and to promote self-care. Offerings included a personal wellness and meditation session, visits with Therapy Tails, nature walks, crafting and bracelet making, Words of Affirmation cards, and more.
The McCall MacBain Foundation renewed its support of the ConfideNCe program, donating towards the program’s extension through 2028. The initiative provides targeted interventions to reduce academic anxiety, build resilience, and improve retention rates for students in the Paramedic, Personal Support Worker, Practical Nursing, and Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs.
The College introduced an ‘Are You Okay?’ link prominently displayed on its website to make it easier for students to learn about available mental health supports including emergency crisis response, support services and programs, specialized services for Indigenous, BIPOC and International students, and the NC Mental Health Policy.
Pre-orientation programming and Orientation Day helped set students up for success as they began their studies at the start of each term. Social events were also offered to new and returning students, designed to help learners build connections, explore campus life, and feel at home at NC and in the community.
The Community Integration through Cooperative Education (CICE) program’s second annual Steps to Success Transition event supported the unique transition goals of CICE students and alumni, offering a space for them to practice selfadvocacy and social skills while exploring a wide variety of community and college resources.
For the second year, Indigenous Education welcomed incoming Indigenous students to campus through its Pathways: Stepping into Transition program, a two-day experience designed to help new students feel confident, connected and prepared as they begin their NC journey.
NC Libraries and Learning Commons launched a series of Learning Centre workshops designed to help students build the essential skills needed for college success. The free workshops cover key study strategies, from effective time management to note-taking techniques that can make a meaningful impact on students’ academic performance.
Academic Excellence
The College announced new programs for 2026-27 that respond to current and emerging labour needs: Defence Systems Engineering Technician (two-year diploma) and Technology (three-year diploma); Cybersecurity (Graduate Certificate); Addictions and Mental Health (Graduate Certificate); Early Childhood Education – Resource Counselling (Graduate Certificate); Professional Butchery Techniques (one-year certificate); and Medical Esthetics (Graduate Certificate).
To strengthen education within Canada’s burgeoning wine industry, NC signed a memorandum of understanding with Okanagan College, enabling Okanagan College to offer NC’s Winery and Viticulture Technician curriculum in a format that is customized to the Okanagan region. The curriculum will allow people to train for careers including winemaker, winery or cellar technician, vineyard manager or laboratory or viticulture technician.
The College’s Academic Upgrading programming was expanded to the Hamilton area. Funded by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training & Skills Development, and referred to as Literacy and Basic Skills (LBS), the program fills a growing gap in the region, following the suspension of similar programs previously offered by another college. LBS provides foundational courses in English, math, and biology to adult learners, free of charge, who are preparing to enter college or pursue an apprenticeship but do not currently meet the academic requirements.
NC’s Centre for Academic Excellence and Indigenous Education department launched Reshaping our Learning Spaces: Centering Indigenous-Led Approaches in Teaching and Learning, a professional development series to support educators in enhancing their knowledge, allyship and relational practices that centre on Indigenous Ways of Knowing. The series extends learning beyond the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, and creates more opportunities for faculty and staff to turn awareness into action.
NC program areas blended academic excellence and social responsibility, contributing to inclusion on campus and in the community.
In fall 2025, more than 60 students in professor Jamie Oresar’s SOCL1430 class completed learning modules on antiracism, generating more open and thoughtful classroom discussions. The interactive Unpacking and Addressing AntiRacism modules –adapted from Western University – cover AntiAsian Racism, Anti-Black Racism, Antisemitism and Islamophobia. The modules were made available to all students and employees until the end of spring 2026.
The School of Community Services, in partnership with Bethesda, hosted Experiential Learning for Inclusive Support, a day-long learning conference for frontline staff and sector partners to deepen their understanding of the diverse needs of individuals they support. Participants took part in a series of interactive workshops designed to build empathy, strengthen practical skills, and enhance individualized care.
Also partnering with Bethesda, students from the Educational Assistance and Adult Supports program organized the Niagara College Inclusive Community Engagement event. The event provided a fun day of activities for children living with autism spectrum disorder or an intellectual and/or developmental disability. Students from the Autism and Behavioural Science program supported the event to help create a welcoming and barrier-free environment.
Students from the Recreation Therapy and Educational Assistance and Adult Supports programs participated in Variety Village’s Active Living Conference for a day of learning focused on inclusion, accessibility and adaptive recreation. Hosted at the Welland Campus for the third year, the event has become an integral part of the curriculum within the School of Community Services to enhance classroom learning through real-world application.
NC’s Myhal School of Nursing and the Centre for Research in Education organized the “Connected Care: The Landscape of Preparing Today’s Learners for Tomorrow’s Healthcare System” conference, bringing a distinguished roster of local healthcare leaders to the Applied Health Institute at the Welland Campus. Guest speakers shared their perspectives with more than 200 students from NC health programs.
Professor Dr. Holldrid Odreman and student Christian Baltus from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) degree program participated in the Association for Simulated Practice in Healthcare’s 2025 conference in Bournemouth,
England, presenting two innovative nursing research studies. The event drew professionals, simulationists, researchers, educators and students from around the world, fostering collaboration on the advancement of simulation-based practices in healthcare and education.
The Niagara College Marketing Competition (NCMC) drew teams from six other Ontario colleges for a day of intense competition and networking opportunities. The inaugural NCMC was organized by the School of Business and Management to ensure students had access to this vital experiential learning opportunity when the annual Ontario Colleges Marketing Competition was put on hold for 2025.
As part of their final term projects, Dental Hygiene students presented their advocacy reports to local MPP Jennie Stevens, who has avidly attended these presentations in the past, supporting student advocacy in oral health.
Massage Therapy students applied their skills at a specialized clinic for expectant mothers, newborns and infants. The week-long initiative offered prenatal and infant massage treatments at no cost to community clients and gave future massage therapists a chance to apply their skills and knowledge. They also participated in a hands-on learning experience by providing complimentary massages to employees at Airbus Helicopters in Fort Erie for the company’s Mental Health Week initiatives.
NC’s Pediatric Fine Motor Development Clinic at the Welland Campus provided a critical dose of hands-on experience for its students while addressing a pressing need for occupational therapy services for local children. The sixweek, community-based program offered specialized occupational therapy sessions for local schoolage children to boost their fine motor skills and was an invaluable training ground for NC Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant students who gained essential clinical experience.
The Community Integration through Co-operative Education (CICE) program opened a new Experiential Learning Lab to help students foster greater independence in college, work, and social networks. The lab was supported by a $100,000 donation from the Ontario Paper Thorold Foundation and offers a comfortable environment where students can enhance their academic, social and employability skills – the three pillars of the CICE program.
Broadcasting – Radio, Television and Film students, program alumni, and aspiring broadcasters from Saint Francis Catholic Secondary School in St. Catharines formed a crew that delivered live coverage of the Ontario Parasport Games in Niagara on CBC Gem.
Public Relations students organized a panel event at the Hare Wine Co. for the Canadian Public Relations Society’s Hamilton chapter, featuring insights from communicators from the Niagara region and networking sessions that connected guests with like-minded professionals.
Students and faculty from the School of Trades constructed a new visitor kiosk for the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. The structure, located on Queen Street next to the Niagara District Court House, was built by 55 students in the Construction Renovation Technician (Co-op) program.
Global Reach
Long-time supporters
Keith and Sharon Segal and GuardMe International Insurance made a transformational $2 million donation toward the College’s award-winning Be World Ready (BWR) program. BWR offers short-term international field studies, study abroad exchange programs, summer institutes, and work abroad opportunities. The Segal family’s gift is the largest individual gift toward a student program and will enable more students to participate in life-changing global experiences.
The College had the honour of welcoming Her Excellency Amal Y. Almoalimi, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to recognize and celebrate NC’s longstanding partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).
As part of a meeting organized by Global Affairs Canada aimed at expanding cooperation, investment and trade between Canada and Saudi Arabia, NC signed several memorandums of understanding with potential partners in KSA. These memoranda will guide future discussions and potential training partnerships in technical education, healthcare and the entertainment industry.
Representatives from the Turkish consulate toured Benchmark and the culinary and baking labs within the School of Culinary Arts Guests included Can Yoldaş, Consul General of Türkiye in Toronto, Bulent Ucpunar, Director of the Yunus Emre Institute in Toronto, and Nursul Atar, Vice President of the Türkiye-Canada Business Council, Foreign Economic Relations Board of Türkiye (DEİK), alongside other guests.
Professors Alison Cousineau and Jeffrey Ko from the Myhal School of Nursing delivered a series of interactive sessions for nursing students and healthcare professionals in India, in collaboration with the College’s partner INSCOL. The duo engaged with more than 400 students and professionals, highlighting innovative topics, including virtual reality in healthcare and modern infection control practices.
Through its Institute for Global Education and Training, NC expanded international partnerships and offered transformative learning experiences to global partners.
In 2025, 375 students from 20 countries participated in immersive customized programs, representing 26 returning partnerships and 11 new partnerships. Programs ranged from English Language Studies to customized training in areas such as Applied Research and Innovation, Entrepreneurship, EDI, Hospitality and Tourism, Human Resources, Sustainability, Technology, Trades, and more.
The College worked with academic partner Senac, Brazil, to create a unique global learning opportunity for students from both institutions with a shared passion for game development. The micro-Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) experience – called Creative Uses of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Game Development – engaged more than 25 students across two virtual sessions coordinated by NC’s Office of Cultural and Global Engagement and the School of Media
Twelve partners from Tanzania representing Folk Development Colleges (FDCs) and CommunityBased Organizations (CBOs) in the Morogoro and Kondoa regions, participated in an Experiential Learning Study Tour at NC as part of the Empowerment through Skills Program (ESP-05). The visit marked the delegation’s first time in Canada and offered a meaningful week of cultural exchange, experiential learning, and strengthened collaboration.
NC’s Centre for Research in Education hosted the sixth edition of the Symposium of the Southern Ontario Universities, an initiative led by the Centre for Educational Research in Languages and Literacies (CERLL) at OISE-University of Toronto. The event welcomed 249 participants from more than 26 countries, bringing together scholars, researchers, educators, and students from around the world.
NC celebrated the 35th anniversary of its School of English Language Studies, a milestone reflecting decades of dedication to equipping students from around the world with English and study skills to thrive academically, professionally, and personally.
The College hosted over 40 global recruitment partners from more than 25 countries during the 2025 Familiarization (FAM) Tour. The annual event offered an immersive experience of NC’s campuses, programs, and community, helping recruiters strengthen their ability to support prospective international students in making informed decisions about their education.
Following Hurricane Melissa, members of the NC community visited the Council of Community Colleges of Jamaica (CCCJ) to deliver donated laptops to support recovery efforts after the storm affected several member institutions.
NC’s Global Business Development team in partnership with NC’s Philippine educational partner, Sun-Core Unlimited, hosted a basketball tournament called the Niagara College Basketball Olympics – Filipino Community and Friendship event. The tournament featured basketball teams from the local Filipino community, with players representing a wide range of NC programs.
Students participated in work abroad experiences, International Field Studies (IFS) and Global Learning Experiences (GLEs) through the BWR program, applying classroom learning in international settings, while building industry knowledge and expanding their global competencies.
Students from the Early Childhood Education program completed a tenweek work placement at Lertlah School in Bangkok, Thailand, teaching children from kindergarten up to grade six through playbased, hands-on activities.
In Alba, Italy, students from the School of Culinary Arts took part in a five-day immersive cooking course in partnership with Alba Accademia Alberghiera, where students made traditional cuisine from the Piemonte Region.
A group of students from the School of Technology participated in an IFS trip to Japan, where students explored the country’s renowned motor vehicle, consumer electronics, and renewable energy sectors.
Students from the School of Allied Health visited Costa Rica to explore health practices, community wellness, and sustainability within a global context. The IFS included engagement in community-based initiatives, visits to a sustainable coffee farm, and participation in healthfocused workshops.
In Barcelona, Spain students from a range of NC programs experienced a combination of academic exploration with cultural immersion, with industry visits focused on sustainability and healthcare, connections with local students from LCI Barcelona, and explored how the city is advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In Costa Rica, students from Horticulture and Environmental programs visited the Rancho Margot – San José, for immersive, hands-on learning in environmental responsibility practices in one of the world’s most biodiverse regions.
In Germany, School of Business and Management students were given a window into international business environments and global commerce, combining classroom sessions, cultural experiences, and hands-on business case studies.
In the Dominican Republic, NC partnered with the Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo to offer students an itinerary focused on the UN’s SDGs, with collaboration sessions on global issues, sustainable development, and culture that fostered academic and cross-cultural exchange.
Alumni & Partner Engagement
The College launched the Electric Vehicle First Responders Training program thanks to a $450,000 donation from RBC Foundation. The pilot program answers a critical need to equip paramedics, firefighters, police officers, and automotive technicians with specialized knowledge and skills to safely manage EV-related situations.
The Buffalo and Fort Erie Public Bridge Authority (Peace Bridge Authority) donated $50,000 to create the Patrick Robson Memorial Scholarship – named in memory of Professor Patrick Robson from the School of Environment and Horticulture. The new fund will provide an annual $4,000 scholarship award to environmental students.
The KPMG Foundation made a $105,000 donation to NC, supporting students from the School of Business and Management. The gift builds on KPMG Foundation’s two established scholarships: the KPMG Business Scholarship and the KPMG Accounting Award, expanding support for students preparing for careers in accounting, marketing, human resources, international business, and more.
Dr. Akira Yoshino – Honorary Fellow with Asahi Kasei Corporation and inventor of the lithiumion battery, one of the most transformative innovations of our time – toured NC’s Green Automotive Technology Lab, where he was introduced to the College’s leading expertise in applied education, research, and innovation in green automotive technology.
College representatives attended the grand opening of Sho’AriShon Park – a new public space in Lincoln restored in collaboration with local partners to honour their enduring presence on the land. NC Board Chair Lora Tisi and Indigenous Cultural Advisor Karl Dockstader spoke at the celebration.
Career and Co-op Services hosted an expanded six-day Career Fair that welcomed more than 100 employers recruiting for full-time, parttime, seasonal, and co-op positions. NC also hosted its first Indigenous Job Fair, offering Indigenous students the opportunity to connect with prospective employers.
NC welcomed student leaders from across the province at the 2025 Ontario Student Voices (OSV) Policy Conference
Organized by OSV, a nonpartisan, student-led advocacy organization, the conference brought together student representatives from Ontario colleges, including NC’s Student Administrative Council (NCSAC), to help empower students with the tools, knowledge, and connections to advocate for meaningful policy change at the provincial level.
NC and George Brown Polytechnic (GBP) partnered to bring back the Ontario Wine Awards (OWA), the province’s most prestigious wine competition and awards program that recognizes Ontario Vintners Quality Alliance (VQA) wines for their quality, distinction, and excellence. Under a shared hosting model, GBP and NC will co-host the OWA on a rotating yearly basis, beginning at George Brown in Toronto in 2026. The partnership will give students more chances to take part in mentored judging and get practical, hands-on experience in event management.
A unique hybrid creation from the Teaching Winery and Teaching Brewery made a historic debut at the Niagara Icewine Festival in January. Ice Wine Strong Ale was crafted for the occasion - it was the first and only beer to be served at the NOTL Icewine Village.
NC’s Community Employment Services partnered with the St. Catharines Enterprise Centre to strengthen entrepreneurial support for students and alumni in the Niagara region. The partnership is creating pathways for aspiring entrepreneurs to launch or grow small businesses, contributing to both local economic development and their own career advancement.
Electrical Engineering Technology alumnus Glen Gahagan and his wife Heather Scott announced a generous $25,000 bequest to the College to create the Glen Gahagan Electrical Engineering Technology Bursary. The future endowed award will provide two annual bursaries in perpetuity for students in the Electrical Engineering Technology program.
NC welcomed students from the Niagara Catholic District School Board for a Women in Trades event, to introduce traditionally underrepresented secondary school students to a diverse range of skilled trades programs. Participants rotated through interactive workshops in Transportation, Electrical, Machining and Construction, led by faculty in the School of Trades.
The College also welcomed hundreds of high school students to its campuses for competitions focused on the skilled trades and technology. Students from the District School Board of Niagara competed in the 28th annual Technological Skills Challenge, demonstrating their abilities across more than 30 skill areas, while students from the Niagara Catholic District School Board participated in the 2026 Technology Skills Competition featuring welding, automotive, baking, and culinary events.
Members of NC’s first-ever graduating Nursing class, the Class of 1975, returned to the campus for a golden anniversary celebration at Benchmark Restaurant. Twenty-five alumni attended the milestone 50th reunion event. For many, it marked the first time they had reunited since crossing the stage at convocation.
A special reunion with NC’s Dental Hygiene Class of 1980, the second-ever graduating class, was held at Bridgewater Brewery in Welland. The reunion brought together graduates, instructors, and decades of memories for a meaningful celebration.
NC brought its spirit of innovation, alumni excellence, and community connection to Ottawa in November for its inaugural Voices of Impact Showcase, held at the historic Sir John A. Macdonald Building. The showcase brought together a vibrant community of NC alumni and supporters to celebrate alumni accomplishments and connections across the Capital Region. The event was a unique cross-college collaboration, bringing together NC’s Community Relations and Events, Alumni Relations, Government Relations, the School of Culinary Arts, the School of Hospitality and Tourism, and Benchmark Restaurant to deliver an exceptional showcase experience. More than 75 guests attended including alumni and their families, community partners, and a notable delegation of government officials.
NC Cares United Way workplace campaign raised $45,315 in support of lifechanging programs that help individuals and families in the Niagara region.
Alumni, families, friends, and community members gathered at the Welland Campus for ReuKnighted ’25, an annual tradition that continues to bring the NC alumni community together for a day of connection, celebration, and Knights pride. The event combined varsity athletics, an indoor tailgate experience, and opportunities for graduates to revisit the campus where their NC stories began.
The NC community supported a donation drive led by the Niagara Chapter of Native Women and the Fort Erie Native Friendship Centre for wildfire evacuees from Sandy Lake First Nation in northern Ontario, as well as Pukatawagan First Nation (Mathias Colomb Cree Nation) and Pimicikamak in northern Manitoba, who were sheltering in Niagara Falls. Over 400 evacuees accessed donations of gently used clothing, new personal hygiene products, and other essentials. The College also opened its kitchens to evacuees who baked Bannock, a traditional Indigenous bread.
Indigenous Education also led a backpack collection in support of displaced youth from Kashechewan Cree Nation, who were evacuated from their homes after a water crisis contaminated the community’s freshwater system in early 2026.
The College launched its Celebrate Niagara dinner series at Benchmark restaurant. Each event in the signature series brings together chefs from renowned establishments within a specific area of the region, celebrating Niagara as a world class destination. The series serves as a showcase for industry and creates new opportunities for culinary and hospitality students, who sharpen their skills and expand their professional network by working with visiting chefs and gaining valuable experience in high-end service.
The Chef Signature Series also returned to Benchmark with four dinner events that featured celebrated chefs Zach Keeshig (Naagan Restaurant, Owen Sound), alumnus Vish Mayekar (Elem Restaurant, Vancouver), Marc Lepine (Atelier Restaurant, Ottawa), and alumni couple Erica and Josh Karbelnik (Karbs Catering and Top Chef Canada winner).
NC’s 2025 Giving Tuesday campaign raised $22,455 for the Nourishing Minds Fund. Administered by the NC Student Administrative Council, Nourishing Minds provides emergency digital grocery cards and the Rise and Shine breakfast program for students. The campaign was supported by the College community, alumni, donors, and community partners including FirstOntario Credit Union, whose Blue Wave volunteers spent the morning serving breakfast to students on campus for the second year.
Social Inclusion and Environmental Sustainability
The Equity, Diversity and Inclusion team collaborated with college areas and community partners on a wide variety of events and learning opportunities for students and employees.
The College kicked off Pride Month with a flag raising followed by activities throughout June for learning, connection, and celebration, including a living library event featuring Dr. Chris McGrath, Vice President, Students, and Ali Ryder, Outreach and Education Coordinator, Student Recruitment who explored a range of topics, including the ways their queer identities have shaped their personal and professional lives.
Black History Month was celebrated through a series of events that honoured the achievements, creativity, and resilience of Black Canadians and African diasporic peoples. A Winter Pop-up Market featured Black-owned businesses and student entrepreneurs; a ‘Words that Heal’ Poetry Slam workshop with alumna Cassandra Muileboom provided a safe space for students and employees to explore self-expression and healing through poetry; and a speaker event with Distinguished Alumna Rochelle Bush, who led a discussion called Niagara’s
Freedom Trail: Discovering Significant People, Places, and Events. An art exhibit was also displayed at the
Welland Campus, showcasing pieces by NC students reflecting the past, present, and future of Black experiences and excellence.
NC hosted a powerful conversation with Christina Guevara marking Transgender Day of Visibility. Drawing from lived experience as a trans woman, lifelong 2SLGBTQIA+ advocate, and community leader, Guevara reflected on what visibility means for trans communities and why it remains an essential force for safety, empowerment, and systemic change.
A student panel kicked off NC’s Disability Awareness Week, highlighting the importance of asking individuals what support they need and recognizing that while disability may be part of a person’s identity, it should not define them. The week also featured hands-on VR experiences and interactive workshops, inclusive sports, practical training on accessibility and allyship, and more.
For the sixth year, the Teaching Brewery rolled out a roster of small batch beers that step-up support for diversity. Six studentcrafted beers were created in support of the Pink Boots Society of Canada, a national non-profit organization that helps women and non-binary people in the fermented and alcoholic beverage industry advance their careers through education. The beers were released ahead of International Women’s Day
NC’s Indigenous Education (IE) department hosted new and returning events to educate, raise awareness and build community around Indigenous Ways of Knowing, Being and Doing.
IE commemorated the tenth anniversary of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Report with a special screening of Sugarcane, an Oscar-nominated documentary that explores the legacy of Canada’s Residential School system. The free screening at the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre was followed by a panel discussion that fostered meaningful dialogue and reflection within the community.
IE hosted the Sharing Our Good Stories: Educators Summit at White Oaks Conference Resort & Spa. The event marked the first time representatives from multiple educational institutions in the Niagara region gathered to celebrate, reflect on, and strengthen the work being done to support Indigenous learners.
IE partnered with Brock University’s Hadiya’dagenhahs First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Student Centre on events including a Strawberry Social, hosted during Indigenous History Month (June), and REDress Day in February, to raise awareness about Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ people.
In May, IE recognized the Moose Hide Campaign, an Indigenous-led grassroots movement aimed at ending violence against women and children. NC’s Moose Hide event featured guest speakers Dylan Ritchie, Bear Clan from Saugeen First Nation, and Chris Shawanoo, Turtle Clan from Stony Point First Nation, who shared personal stories about their upbringings, the importance of preserving culture, and how they are working to teach Indigenous men about their role in ending genderbased violence.
NC employees, students, and community members came together in ceremony and celebration at IE’s ‘Wake up the Garden’ event, to plant seedlings
alongside Michelle Thomas, an Indigenous author and educator, who shared traditional teachings and songs to promote a good growing season.
NC marked the oneyear anniversary of its Sustainability Plan: ‘A time for action’ sharing a 2025 Sustainability Plan Year in Review report.
The report highlights college achievements and measurable impact from the first year of the plan, including a 65 per cent reduction in total acreage of invasive phragmites on campus; a 19 per cent reduction in intensity-based energy consumption since 2011; and the installation of AI-powered sorting bins to improve waste diversion and food waste capture targets. The NC Student Administrative Council and Chartwells, which operate campus food outlets, reported promising early results from the Friendlier reusable container program Since September 2024, NC successfully recovered more than 27,000 containers from food and drink purchased on campus – a roughly 40 per cent return rate. The Friendlier program complements NC’s implementation of the Oscar Sort AI Recycling Assistant, both of which optimize waste diversion on campus.
Following its Energy Management Assessment (EMA) through the Save on Energy program, NC was accepted to continue participating in the province’s Strategic Energy Management (SEM) program, supporting the College’s energy and carbon reduction goals alongside a likeminded cohort of postsecondary institutions, hospitals, and school boards.
The College earned World Wildlife Fund-Canada Living Campus Certification for the second year in a row for its outstanding commitment to sustainability, conservation and the environment.
For the second year, the NC Teaching Salon received Green Circle Salons certification for their commitment to a waste recycling system and education program for students in the Hairstyling program. Approximately 860 pounds (95% of total waste) was diverted, including hair clippings, excess hair colour, aluminum foil, single use items, and PPE waste.
Students from the School of Business and Environment, joined by several faculty and the NC Sustainability team, completed a hands-on organics waste audit at Davidson Environmental to help businesses in the City of Guelph reduce their food waste.
Two of NC’s sustainability experts, Katie Bristow, Sustainability Program and Outreach Coordinator, and Jocelyn Baker, Professor of Environmental Sciences, spoke on a panel for World Wetlands Day, hosted in partnership with NC, Brock University, UNESCO, and Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority.
The College’s Free Store initiative was a finalist in the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Sustainability category for the 2025 International Green Gown Awards, which recognize the efforts of higher education institutions in implementing sustainable practices. Free Store Pop-Ups, led by the Office of Sustainability each semester, have provided students with a chance to shop at no cost for reusable items donated by the NC community.
A student-led on-campus vegetable garden provided fresh produce for students facing food insecurity throughout the summer months. The initiative was spearheaded by Robert Pastirik, a 2025 graduate of the Horticultural Technician program, with support from the College’s Health, Wellness and Accessibility Services and the Teaching Greenhouse and featured 12 raised planter beds generously donated by Conquest Steel, compost donated by Walker Industries and seeds contributed by West Coast Seeds
The student-led garden complemented the United Way Garden Hub on campus that also provided fresh produce to students and community members.
The 10th annual NC Bioblitz welcomed a record number of nature lovers and citizen scientists to campus in support of the biodiversity goals of NC’s Sustainability Plan, elevating the value of biodiversity and critical ecological services.
Organizational Excellence
Construction began on the College’s new Health Education building, with ground clearing in August marking a significant milestone for the project at the Welland Campus.
Once completed in 2027, the 75,000 square foot building will help address a critical shortage of frontline healthcare workers in Niagara by enabling NC to graduate 800 additional students from its health programs each year. With additional teaching labs, classrooms, and patient care spaces, the project will enhance NC’s ability to attract students and increase enrolment capacity in high-demand health programs, many of which currently have long wait lists. New hub and community spaces will also strengthen community access via the delivery of accessible healthcare services through student-run clinics that address critical healthcare needs and provide more opportunities for experiential learning.
The Together campaign continued to draw support from generous donors and partners whose contributions are making an impact for students and the community.
The School of Nursing and PSW was renamed the Myhal School of Nursing in recognition of a historic $5 million donation from the Myhal Family Foundation
The gift, announced at the 33rd annual NC Gala, is supporting the College’s plans to address the significant shortage of
healthcare practitioners in the community through its new Health Education building, scholarships for students in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) students, and scholarships for Indigenous students studying in healthcare programs.
NC received two transformational gifts from the estate of Norris Walker and family totaling $7 million – the largest legacy gift in NC history:
A $4 million donation that is significantly bolstering financial aid for students and supporting crucial
campus redevelopment initiatives through Destination Niagara Entrance Scholarships, a planned expansion of Skilled Trades at the Welland Campus, and the Dan Patterson Legacy Fund; and a $3 million donation supporting the new Health Education building
Milestone donations toward the Health Education project also included a generous $500,000 gift from the Haj-Ahmad Family Foundation, which is also supporting scholarships for Pharmacy Technician students, and a $500,000 gift from the late Wally Bamford, P. Eng., who cofounded CAN-ENG Furnaces International Inc. in 1964.
In November, NC officially unveiled its Horticultural and Environmental Sciences Innovation Centre (HESIC) Greenhouse. The $12-million facility will benefit students and the local greenhouse sector for generations through advanced horticultural research. The dedicated research greenhouse is outfitted with advanced technology and equipment to help industry partners innovate with HESIC researchers – including students – conducting specialized trials that move the needle toward commercialization.
Community Employment Services (CES) celebrated its new home at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus. Previously situated in downtown St. Catharines, the move centralized the government-funded supports CES offers to an on-campus location alongside many academic areas. CES offers community job-seekers, including NC alumni, free one-on-one employment support, serving
approximately 1,600 job seekers annually, while also supporting the hiring needs of hundreds of employers throughout Niagara.
The College introduced a new faculty and staff resource featuring operational support and professional development. The Employee Hub offers HR and wellness resources, employee onboarding, professional development skills and calendar, college updates, and more.
The Equity, Diversity and Inclusion team launched a new learning resource for the campus community: the Days of Significance Calendar. Developed as part of NC’s EDI Catalyst initiative, the calendar is a centralized, accessible tool designed to support learning, reflection and awareness of meaningful cultural, religious and historical observances throughout the academic year.
The College reopened a series of washrooms at both campuses as part of the first phase of a collegewide renovation project that leads the way in inclusive washroom design. The renovations, part of the ‘Build NC’ plan, seek to enhance universal design, an approach that aims to create environments that are usable by people of all abilities, ages, genders, and backgrounds.
Student Achievements
The Niagara College Knights made NC proud during the 2025-26 varsity season with team medals and individual accomplishments reflecting the commitment of student-athletes both on the playing field and in the classroom.
The Knights varsity women’s curling team brought home the gold medal from the 2025-26 OCAA Curling Championship.
2025-26 Co-Female Athletes of the Year Julia Markle and Tessa Vahrmeyer, and Male Athlete of the Year Gerrit Oldejans received top awards at the 56th Annual NC Athletic Awards Banquet.
Markle, a 2nd year skip, led the women’s curling team to their OCAA gold medal and was named OCAA Curling Championship MVP. Her team tied for fourth place at the CCAA Curling National Championships in Regina, SK.
Vahrmeyer, a 2nd year forward with the women’s soccer team set a new
regular season scoring record with 14 goals. She finished the season with a CCAA All-Canadian award, a CCAA Academic AllCanadian award, an OCAA West Division 1st Team All-Star award, an OCAA All-Academic award, and an OCAA West Division Scoring Champion title.
Oldejans, a 5th year forward on the men’s soccer team, earned the OCAA West Division Scoring Champion title, and was recognized as an OCAA 1st Team AllStar, an OCAA All-Academic award winner, and a CCAA Academic All-Canadian.
NC participated in the OCAA’s Ontario Collegiate Recreation Powerlifting Extramural Tournament, marking a milestone debut for both the College and its student athletes at the provincial competition. Representing NC were America Castillo, a secondyear student in the Business – Sales and Marketing program, and Roberto Villao, a fourth-year student in the Honours Bachelor of Business Administration – International Commerce and Global Development program.
The NC Student Administrative Council (NCSAC) welcomed its student Board of Directors for the 2025-2026 academic year and new President, Hish Clifford, a student in the Business Administration – Accounting program at the time of election.
Over the year, NCSAC board members actively advocated for student needs and priorities, including participating in two major conferences: Canadian Alliance of Student Associations (CASA) Advocacy Week in Ottawa, a federal advocacy conference, and the Ontario Student Voice (OSV) provincial advocacy conference in Toronto. The opportunities allowed board members to bring NC’s voice directly to decisionmakers at both levels of government.
Paramedic student Sebastien Duguay was one of four recipients of the 2025 Niagara Health Knowledge Institute (NHKI) Summer Student Research Scholarship, a paid four-month researchfocused placement. Duguay supported a project to improve the documentation of hospital-acquired delirium in older adults, part of the provincial Delirium Aware Safer Healthcare (DASH) initiative.
The College celebrated the strength, resilience and achievements of its Indigenous learners at the Indigenous Student Awards Banquet. A total of 18 students received awards at the event, including four recipients of the Dr. Phyllis Webstad Indigenous Scholarship, whose award helps ease the financial burden of postsecondary education. Dr. Webstad attended the banquet to meet the recipients and celebrate with all guests.
Photography student William Mitchell’s captivating image of the elusive silver fox was featured in a special collector’s edition of Canadian Geographic magazine, showcasing the winners of the 2025 Canadian Wildlife Photography of the Year Competition. Mitchell’s work was one of 98 images selected from about 10,000 entries.
student
General
a
Graduating
Kane Jennings was the recipient of the prestigious Collegiate Bronze academic medal awarded by the Governor
of Canada. He achieved
97.83% average in the Acting for Film and Digital Media program.
A group of thirdyear Film Production students in the Broadcasting – Radio, Television and Film program celebrated their capstone project, Before You Go, a drama that received the Best Picture award at the 2025 RUSH Youth Film Festival. The film also tied for second place in the Audience Choice category.
For the third time in four years, students from the School of Business and Management won the 2026 Human Resources Professional Association (HRPA) Student Case Competition. The student team from the Honours Bachelor of Business Administration (Human Resources) program edged out more than 20 teams from across Ontario.
NC students achieved great success at the 2025 Skills Ontario competition, bringing home eight medals.
Hairstyling students swept the podium with gold for Isabella Boom, silver for Emily Smolko, and bronze for Harmony Beaudry Boom also competed at the Skills Canada national competition, finishing fourth place. Game Design students Bianca Dizio and Abbygale Critelli won silver and bronze, respectively, in the 3D Digital Game Art competition, while Caleb Simoneau, IT Network Systems Administration, Jonas Kazakevicius, Metal Fabricator – Fitter, and Adam Cameron, Precision Machining, earned bronze.
Students in the joint Niagara College and Brock University Game Programming (BSc) and Game Design (BA) programs debuted their original video games at the annual Level Up Showcase in Toronto, where they won awards.
A team of students behind ‘Goofy Little Guys’ won first place in the People’s Choice category, voted by fellow students from across the province.
The fourth-year joint NC-Brock program student teams behind the games ‘Ventomori’ and ‘Green Thing from the Planet Jupiter’ earned second place in ‘Achievement in Accessibility’ and ‘Achievement in Audio,’ respectively.
An Honourable Mention ‘People’s Choice’ award for ‘Grasping Chaos’ went to third-year students from the Game Development program.
Wine students uncorked a sparkling finish at the 19th edition of Caps, Corks and Forks. The event drew more than 250 guests for a playful and intense rivalry between NC’s beer and wine students who competed for beverage pairing supremacy over a five-course meal prepared by NC culinary students and the Benchmark team.
NC raised a pint to the 2025 winners of Project Brew – the College’s craft beer festival showcasing unique creations by final-term Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management students.
Spring winner Peng Wang created a jasmine tea and orange wheat beer called ‘JO Bloom,’ which earned him the $4,500 Matt Soos Memorial Scholarship.
Chenghao Xu’s ‘Dino-Mite Fizz’ was victorious during the summer edition of Project Brew, earning him the $4,500 scholarship sponsored by Lallemand Brewing.
Jon Wallington secured the first-place title in fall, receiving the $4,500 Linde Scholarship for his Loganberry Berliner Weisse.
Alumni Achievements
The College celebrated its 2025 Alumni of Excellence, NC’s highest honour for graduates, who are also selected as nominees for Colleges Ontario’s Premier’s Awards, highlighting their outstanding professional, community and academic achievements at the provincial level. The 2025 recipients: Jessica Compton (Founder, Tree of Stars; Correctional Worker graduate, 2001), Mark Fisher (President, Canada Water Agency; Ecosystem Restoration graduate, 1997), Aaron Jones (CEO, Kraun Electric Inc.; Electronics Engineering Technology graduate, 2003), Adam Karamath (Founder & CEO, Mel Medical Inc.; Photonics Engineering Technology graduate, 2009), Winnie Muchuba (Processing Agent, E-Commerce, Costco; General Arts and ScienceEnhanced Language Training for Employment graduate, 2018), and Alka Singh (Founder & Managing Director, Paradigm Healthcare Services; graduate of Gerontology, 2016, and Registered Nurse – Critical Care Nursing, 2015).
The College bestowed a Distinguished Alumni Award upon alumna Rochelle Bush during its Spring Convocation ceremony. A graduate of NC’s Social Service Worker diploma program in 2018 and Fashion Arts in 1983, Bush owns Tubman Tours Canada, where she highlights the legacy of Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad in Niagara, helping shape early Black History narratives and tourism in the region.
Winery and Viticulture
Technician alumna Augusta Van Muyen (2010) was crowned Niagara’s 20252026 Grape King, securing her place in the region’s viticultural history. The Vineyard Manager at Tawse Winery in Vineland is only the fourth woman to receive the title in the history of the award, which dates back to 1947.
As the founder and CEO of MemoraCare Technologies Inc., alumna Jessica Grabell (Recreation and Leisure Services, 2005) is leading the development of Remember Media, a digital platform aimed at helping families stay connected with loved ones living with dementia. The technology allows families to upload special memories remotely, which caregivers can then access through a QR code worn by the
Helen McNish, graduate of NC’s Pre-Health Sciences – College (2017) and Fitness and Health Promotion (2019) programs, was published in the Journal of the Federation of American Societies of Experimental Biology (FASEB). Her research focuses on the effects of blue light on mitochondrial DNA in skin, a study with the potential for understanding the aging process and skin health.
individual with dementia. NC’s Business and Commercialization Innovation Centre is among a number of key partners helping Grabell refine her product, expand her business model, and prepare for a national rollout.
Olivia Carre, who completed NC’s Electrician – Construction and Maintenance Apprenticeship program, was one of just four apprentices from across Canada to receive the Dakota Prep Fellowship The inaugural award seeks to empower exceptional electrical apprentices who have demonstrated a deep commitment to mentoring and assisting their peers.
Broadcasting – Radio, Television and Film (BRTF) program graduate Jenny Reed (2016), Editor with Toronto-based Insight Productions, was nominated for two 2025 Canadian Screen Awards for her work on Top Chef Canada and Canada’s Ultimate Challenge
Three Public Relations alumni earned prestigious awards from the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) Hamilton chapter at the 2025 CPRS Hamilton Pinnacle Awards Marcus Giancola (2025) received the CPRS Hamilton Student Award of Excellence for his exceptional academic record and successful internship, Tiana Melnychuk (2025) was awarded the Heather J. Pullen Memorial Award to support her transition into the industry by funding her Emerging Practitioner status, and Naomi Fox (2024) was the first to receive the Mark Gregory Memorial award to recognize the professional growth of a junior practitioner.
Former classmates and BRTF alumnae Sarah Christie and Shannon Burns (2013) co-hosted Virgin Radio’s Earth Day Party podcast in April 2025. The podcast was part of Virgin’s Earth Month awareness campaign in support of World Wildlife Fund Canada and featured conversations with renowned climate and wildlife experts, including David Suzuki and the late Dr. Jane Goodall.
Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management alumnus Mark Horsley’s unique Dundas brewery and eatery, Barrel Heart Brewing, received a Michelin Bib Gourmand award. The honour is bestowed upon restaurants that offer good quality food for a good value and are known as personal favourites among the anonymous Michelin Guide inspectors.
Employee Achievements
Dr. Marc Nantel, VicePresident of Research, Innovation and Strategic Enterprises, brought his expertise to the House of Commons where he shed light on the college sector’s critical role in driving Canadian innovation. Nantel, who is also Chair of the pan-Canadian College Applied Research Taskforce, spoke before the Standing Committee on Science and Research as the committee launched its study: Private Sector Investment in Research and Development in Canada.
The 2025 issue of Made in Welland magazine – a publication by the City of Welland’s Economic Development team – features three NC leaders whose leadership, dedication and vision are shaping Welland’s future: Rebecca Nicholls, Associate Dean, Academic Studies; Julie Niemiec, Manager, Apprenticeship; and Michele O’Keefe, Senior Director, Athletics and Student Engagement.
Rebecca Nicholls was also honoured with Niagara’s 40 Under Forty Business Achievement Award from Business Link Media Group. Nicholls, who is an alumna of the Human Resources (Co-op) program (2008), was recognized for her significant contributions to NC over her career, holding roles including Associate Dean of Workforce Development and Community Programs, Manager of Community Employment Services, Employment and Job Development Advisor, and part-time faculty member.
School of Business and Management Professor Krishna SenGupta travelled to New Orleans to share her innovative teaching methods at the 21st annual Economics Teaching Conference. She was hand-picked by Cengage Canada as one of only five Canadian instructors to be a sponsored attendee at the event.
Professors from the School of Community Services, Erin Wilkie and Ann Marie Raos, presented at the international Playful Learning Conference, held at the University of Sussex in Brighton, UK. Their presentation focused on how the Pixar Pitch – a storytelling method originally developed by Pixar Animation Studios to help writers pitch ideas for films –can be adapted for the classroom to encourage students to synthesize complex ideas into short, structured narratives.
Full-time professor Patti Wallington, from the School of Hospitality and Tourism, and part-time professor Rena Posteraro, from the School of Business and Management, were recognized with 2024-25 Educator of the Year Awards from the NC Student Administrative Council The awards are based on student nominations and recognize educators who positively impact student learning and success.
Rachel Brown, Manager, Finance, Operations and Compliance, with the Research and Innovation division, was appointed as President of the Canadian Association of Research Administrators (CARA). Brown is the first college employee in CARA’s 50-plus year history to hold its highest elected role.
A cohort of 19 fulltime faculty members completed the final phase of the College Educator Development Program (CEDP), which supports the professional growth of faculty across Ontario. The College’s 2025 CEDP graduates are: Jacob Bermel, Rachel Labatt, Stephanie Jones, Sherry Visser, G. James McQueen, Patti Aubry, Tyler Stortz, Kim Boyd, Michael Cherrington, Nate Alaimo, Mitchell Lamb, Chris Cicchino, Kyle Landry, Ed Mokrzynski, Debbie Ann Fender, Diana Morrison, Brian Law, Emily Aubie, and Sean Justine.
Head Winemaker Allison Findlay was recognized with a 2025 VQA Promoters Award. The awards, managed through the Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute at Brock University, acknowledges individuals who celebrate the Ontario VQA wine industry with enthusiasm, constructive input and unsolicited promotion. Findlay was honoured in the Education category, recognizing teachers who educate and inspire students about Ontario VQA wines.
Employees were recognized with 2025 Awards of Excellence for their remarkable contributions to the College: Michael Wales, Director, Communications (Administration Award); Terri Champion, Professor, School of Business and Management (Faculty Award); Marissa Ditto, Financial Aid Advisor, Enrolment Services (Support Staff Award); and the Strategic Mandate Agreement 4 team (Team Award) consisting of Adam Dusome, Registrar and Senior Director Enrolment Services, Katerina Gonzalez, Director of Planning and Institutional Research, Vince Malvaso, Vice President of College Operations and interim Senior Director, Finance, and Jeff Post, Dean of Interdisciplinary Studies and Teaching Excellence.
For her outstanding college recruitment efforts, the 2025 Niagara Champion Award was presented to Katrina Frausel , Academic Portfolio Manager with the Community Integration through Cooperative Education program.
The 2025 President’s Award for Innovation in Student Learning and Success went to the following employee-led projects: Building a Community of Students through Extra-Curricular and Experiential Learning (professor Kerri Simich, School of Business and Management); Enhanced Immersive Ecosystem Restoration Field Experience (professors Martin Smith and Andrea Sinclair, School of Environment and Horticulture); and the STEP UP initiative from the Community Integration through Cooperative Education program.
College Recognition
The College celebrated a provincial honour with Welland Girls Sports Day receiving the 2025 Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (I.D.E.A.) Award from Parks and Recreation Ontario (PRO). The award was presented by the Honourable Neil Lumsden, Minister of Sport, at PRO’s Awards of Excellence gala. Delivered in partnership with the City of Welland since 2022, the initiative was honoured for its success in creating a welcoming, empowering space where girls can discover their strengths, build confidence, and stay engaged in sport.
NC’s Big Move Cancer Ride team received recognition at the 2025 Big Move event from the Niagara Health Foundation for surpassing $50,000 raised for the Walker Family Cancer Centre, earning NC a spot in the Platinum Peddlers Club. The team has raised more than $56,000 since 2019.
The Canadian Beverage Innovation (CIP) Program, received funding of up to $172,000 through the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP). The CIP program supports beverage-focused SMEs across Canada with access to a range of commercialization services to accelerate product readiness, reduce risk, and help businesses successfully launch and grow in competitive markets.
The NC-led Southern Ontario Network for Advanced Manufacturing Innovation (SONAMI) celebrated its tenth anniversary, marking the milestone with an event that highlighted a decade of success: 510 completed projects, 492 industry partnerships, more than $27.3 million in government investment, 888 jobs created or supported, 284 commercialized outcomes, and $22.5 million in sales from commercialized innovations. SONAMI is a network of postsecondary institutions whose innovation centres collaborate with small-and-medium-sized companies (SMEs) to tackle manufacturing-related challenges.
NC was granted its third Technology Access Centre (TAC) with an investment of $1.75 million over five years, from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), expanding its capacity to support industry innovation across Ontario and beyond. With this investment, the Horticultural and Environmental Sciences Innovation Centre (HESIC) joins NC’s two other TACs – the Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (WAMIC) and the Food and Beverage Innovation Centre (FBIC) – as part of a prestigious national network of applied research centres.
The College’s learning enterprises continued to shine with numerous accolades throughout the year:
TEACHING DISTILLERY AWARDS:
2025 U.S. Open Whiskey Championship:
› Gold for Absinthe
› Gold for Spiced Old Fashioned
› Bronze for Canadian Rum
2025 U.S. Open Spirits Championship:
› Gold for Absinthe (Specialty Spirits category)
› Gold for Spiced Old Fashioned (Bottled Cocktails category)
› Bronze for Canadian Rum (Spiced/Flavoured Rum category)
2026 Canadian Artisan Spirit Competition (CASC):
› Gold for Bees and Blooms (Liqueur category)
› Silver for Spiced Old Fashioned (White Spirit category)
› Bronze for London Dry Gin (Classic Gin category)
TEACHING WINERY AWARDS
2025 U.S. Open Cider Championship:
› Bronze for Cherry Cider (Cherry Cider category)
National Wine Awards:
› Platinum for 2022 Dean’s List Cabernet Franc
› Gold for 2019 Dean’s List Blanc de Blancs
All Canadian Wine Championships:
› Gold for 2019 Dean’s List Blanc de Blancs
› Gold for 2022 Dean’s List Cabernet Franc
TEACHING BREWERY AWARDS
2025 Canada Beer Cup:
› Bronze for Beer 101 Strong (Strong Ale category)
US Cider Open:
› Bronze for Cherry Cider
To date, student-crafted brews from the Teaching Brewery have earned 58 medals over the years. Beer 101 Strong is its most successful beer with 20 awards across all competitions so far, including 5 gold, 7 silver and 8 bronze medals.
Introducing the newest VPs to join Niagara College’s Executive Team:
Dorita Pentesco, Vice President, Enrolment
In September 2025, Dorita Pentesco was appointed Vice President, Enrolment, following the College’s establishment of a new portfolio that combined all domestic and international marketing, recruitment, and enrolment functions.
Pentesco joined the College in 2009, bringing with her 17 years of experience at Canadian Tire Financial Services, where she specialized in integrated brand management, marketing, and communications. At NC, she has held senior roles overseeing Marketing, Communications, Planning, and Student Recruitment, and has served in interim capacities as Acting Director, International, and Acting VP Student Affairs. In each of these roles, Pentesco has contributed significantly to shaping the College’s welcoming culture and trailblazing qualities through her commitment to the #ncLIFE ® brand.
Dr. Fay Lim-Lambie, Vice President, Academic
The College welcomed Dr. Fay Lim-Lambie as Vice President, Academic in December 2025.
Prior to joining NC, Dr. Lim-Lambie served as Senior Vice President, Academic at the International Language Academy of Canada (ILAC) Education Group, Dean of Health Sciences, Community Services and Early Childhood Centres at George Brown College, and Dean of Georgian College’s School of Health Sciences and Health and Wellness. Earlier in her career, Dr. Lim-Lambie held senior leadership positions in the healthcare sector at Baycrest Health Sciences and St. Michael’s Unity Health in Toronto. A Registered Social Worker, she is an accomplished and engaging leader who brings a wealth of leadership experience to the benefit of NC students and the Niagara community.
Vince Malvaso, Vice President, College Operations
In January 2026, Vince Malvaso was appointed to the role of Vice President, College Operations.
Malvaso’s tenure at NC began in 2003 as Manager in Financial Services. He assumed leadership of the department in 2009, leading the development of the College’s annual business plan and budget and demonstrating sound and strategic financial stewardship through challenging periods, including the Covid-19 pandemic and the shifting landscape within the Canadian postsecondary sector. Malvaso holds a Certified Professional Accountant (CPA/CMA) designation and has previously served as NC’s Acting Director of Facilities Management Services.
Report
2025/2026 Goal Outcome Results
1. Grow enrolments and support wholistic student success
› Suite of new programs for launch in 20262027 developed
› Student journey mapping completed and multi-year plan to implement a college-wide Customer Relationship Management system launched
› Construction of new Welland campus residence commenced
› Construction of new Health building commenced
2. Increase entrepreneurial revenue and identify operational efficiencies
› Profitability of subsidiary operations achieved
› Growth of global and domestic contract training revenue
› Plan for the evolution of Niagara College Toronto developed and implemented
› Review of key operational processes completed
3. Advance the Together fundraising campaign with a focus on donor, community, and alumni engagement
4. Support our people and nurture our organizational culture through a period of significant change
› Year two goals of Together fundraising campaign achieved
› Growth of alumni interactions and support within and beyond Niagara
› Change management initiatives to support employees through organizational evolution and renewal implemented
› Initiatives to support employees’ mental health and resilience introduced
› Domestic student enrolment exceeded target by 7.1%, with increases across a variety of programs and program delivery formats, reflecting the continuing multi-year strength of NC’s program mix and brand strength.
› With ongoing Canadian study permit and post-graduate work permit restrictions, low student visa approval rates and resulting negative perceptions of Canada as an education brand, international student enrolment fell short of planned targets.
› Programs developed for launch in 2026-2027: Addictions and Mental Health, Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, Defence Systems Engineering Technician & Technology, Early Childhood Education-Resource Consulting, Medical Esthetics, Professional Butchery Techniques.
› Multi-year student journey plan developed with project mapping completed.
› New NC Hamilton Academic Upgrading site successfully launched, supporting increased access and additional learners.
› NC KSA experienced a delay in the execution of awarded contracts, moving delivery into 2026 and resulting in a deficit for the 2025 year end results.
› NCLEC revitalization and efficiency efforts yielded improvements in financial position, with year-end results posting a deficit for 2025-2026.
› Secured new domestic contract training and funding opportunities with partners including Raytheon, RBC Foundation, and CEWIL Canada iHUB.
› Launched and delivered funded training initiatives in Grenada, Tanzania, and Kenya.
› Preliminary plans developed for Niagara College Toronto.
› Operational process reviews completed, including HR business systems, technology platforms, and student and career advising.
› Year two goals of Together campaign surpassed.
› Additional alumni initatives successfully implemented, resulting in 20,500 unique, meaningful new alumni engagements since campaign launch.
› Confirmed significant major gifts in support of Health Expansion, student support, and experiential learning.
› Successfully hosted NC Showcase in Ottawa, which attracted alumni, partners, and government officials.
› Organizational design project implementation underway, with tailored supports provided to leaders.
› Multiple program offerings designed specifically to support leaders and employees during a period of organizational renewal.
› Launched online, face-to-face and hybrid Brightspace templates for faculty use, and faculty professional development webinars.
2025/2026 Goal
5. Further our commitments to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action
Outcome Results
› Outdoor learning spaces and campus environments enhanced
› Energy consumption and carbon emissions reduced
› Next phase of EDI Blueprint goals and actions implemented
› Indigenous Education Strategy finalized and launched
› Healthy Campus, Healthy Community Action Plan developed and launched
› Achieved WWF-Canada Living Planet Campus for second year.
› Transformed outdoor spaces, including North Culinary Garden, United Way Niagara community garden, and Indigenous-inspired Turtle Garden.
› New building designs incorporated increased energy efficiency and lower carbon emissions, Health building expansion designed to Zero Carbon Building Standards (ZCB-Design, Canada Green Building Council).
› New energy-efficient natural gas boilers installed at Welland.
› Feed The Community program supported over 5,000 meals in the region.
› Launched Reshaping Our Learning Spaces professional development program related to Indigenization and TRC for faculty and staff.
› Completed EDI Blueprint actions include virtual reality simulations, art installations, campus washroom renovations (non-gendered and barrier free), parenting room, self-directed learning modules, inclusion of EDI in LauNCh guide.
› Protocol for Smudging approved and implemented.
› Indigenous Education Strategy consultations completed, and launch expected by Fall 2026.
› Healthy Campus, Healthy Community Action Plan under development, including community consultations, identifying action plan pillars, and mapping of existing data.
6. Bolster NC’s global reach and brand
› Successful first year of Barcelona partnership campus
› Expansion of awardwinning Be World Ready (BWR) program
›
7. Support community and economic development in Niagara and Ontario
› New Healthy Ageing and Wellness Innovation Centre (HAWIC) launched
› Engagement of industry and community partners through applied research, Work Integrated Learning, and career development increased
› New partnership agreement(s) to promote college and community health and wellbeing established
› Global Learning Experiences delivered at Barcelona partnership campus; with plans developed for full time programming to launch in 2026.
› Expanded BWR opportunities for students with new global partners in Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Germany, Italy, and Spain.
› New BWR collaborations with academic partners in Brazil and Norway to advance “In the Classroom” global competency development.
› Culinary Management student represented Canada at the Young Chef Olympiad in India
› Healthy Aging and Wellness Innovation Centre (HAWIC) launched, inaugural project partners include two long-term care homes, Geras Centre for Aging Research, and Alzheimer Society of Niagara Region.
› Hosted the Niagara Health Research Day and Connected Care: The Landscape of Preparing Today’s Learners for Tomorrow’s Healthcare System conference.
› Secured an agreement with Walker Industries to advance sustainable horticulture and greenhouse practices.
› Launched a Digital Skills Workshop Series for workplace and educational success.
› Horticultural and Environmental Sciences Innovation Centre (HESIC) awarded a 5-year, $1.75M Technology Access Centre (TAC) grant from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC).
› Multiple community and sport events supported through Broadcasting, Radio, Television and Film (BRTF) program including NC varsity sports, the Henley Regatta, the World Rowing Championship, the Minto Cup, Parasport Canada’s National Sledge Hockey championships, Canada’s Got Talent.
› MOU with three Niagara Family Health Teams established to formalize NC’s health care integration.
Financial Performance (2025-2026)
The Audited Consolidated Financial Statements are part of the public record and made available on the College website.
As reflected in the audited financial statements, Niagara College reported an operating deficit of $19.29 million for the year ended March 31, 2026, following a year of significant challenge across the postsecondary sector. While navigating these challenges, the College maintained a strong financial foundation, supported by $128 million in internally restricted reserves that are designated to support future capital and strategic priorities.
Together, these resources support Niagara College’s continued commitment to being student‑focused, ensuring continuity of learning, advancing innovation in teaching and learning, strengthening community and industry connections, and supporting long‑term institutional sustainability. The College continues to meet all provincial financial health requirements.
Financial Report Summary
Year ended Marsh 31, 2026 (in thousands ‘000)
Revenue
Appendix A: Strategic Mandate Agreement
The Strategic Mandate Agreement (SMA) between Ontario and Niagara College identifies its unique role in the province’s postsecondary education system. Click here to view the SMA on the Ministry of Colleges and Universities website.
Appendix B: Audited Financial Statements
Audited Financial Statements are available on the College’s website. Click here to view Audited Financial Statements per fiscal year.
Appendix C: Key Performance Indicators
The Ministry of Colleges and Universities instituted a system of performance measures for its colleges in 1999. The measures are called Key Performance Indicators, or KPIs.
The 4 KPIs:
1. Graduate Employment Rate
2. Graduate Satisfaction Rate
3. Employer Satisfaction Rate
4. Graduation Rate (Student Success)
Note: The student KPI, based on the government’s Student Satisfaction and Engagement Survey, was last administered in 2018-19.
Niagara College maintains the most current available KPI data on its website, click here to view the KPIs.
Appendix D: Summary of Advertising & Marketing Complaints
For the period April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, as specified in the Minister’s Binding Policy Directive on the Framework for Programs of Instruction, which sets out college program advertising and marketing guidelines, Niagara College has received no complaint from its students regarding advertising and marketing of College programs.
