encore - 2016 Edition

PITCH PERFECT Ethics at heart of Marketing grad’s award-winning business

CAMPUS REDESIGN $55-million makeover underway in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake

RAISING SPIRITS Coming soon: Canada’s first teaching distillery and exciting new programs

GOING FOR GOLD NC’s Junior Culinary Team Canada takes on the world at Culinary Olympics this fall

encore THE MAGAZINE OF NIAGARA COLLEGE CANADA | niagaracollege.ca | 2016

Building dreams, making history

State-of-the-art classroom turns construction site for Habitat for Humanity home

Teaching is our Passion.

NIAGARA COLLEGE RESTAURANT

BENCHMARK

Learning is their Passion.

Indulge your Passion.

NIAGARA COLLEGE TEACHING

WINERY

The Learning Enterprises at Niagara College’s beautiful Niagara-on-the-Lake campus offer visitors a unique experience where food, wine and beer combine to treat your senses, a spa treatment will relax you and the aroma from the greenhouse will send you home smiling.

We invite you to experience Niagara College in a way NIAGARA COLLEGE TEACHING

BREWERY

you never thought possible - an oasis of hospitality and indulgence.

As we tell our students...

You’re going to like it here!

NIAGARA COLLEGE

SPA NIAGARA COLLEGE TEACHING

GREENHOUSE

niagaracollege.ca

5 Encore is published annually

by Niagara College Canada.

myCollege 4

President’s welcome

Mailing address: Niagara College Canada 300 Woodlawn Road Welland, Ontario, Canada L3C 7L3

5

At a glance

6

Head of the class

8

Savouring success

11

‘Mane’ attraction: Hair donation event

Director Marketing and Communications Dorita Pentesco

11

NC cares in a United Way

12

Redesigning the student experience

Director of Development (Acting) Wendy Dueck

14

Knights shine in academics and athletics

15

Lifting ‘spirits’ in Canada’s craft distillery scene

15

New programs unveiled

16

Building dreams

19

Many Hands reach out to community

Editor and lead writer Julie Greco

8

10 Guestbook

12

Contributing editor and writer Michael Wales Contributing writers Arely Gomez, Mack Abbott, Carolyn Mullin

myStory 20

Going for gold

myConnection contributing writers Wendy Dueck, Malgosia Sienkiewicz

22

First class: Mastering their craft

23

Grad profile: Chris Sinclair

Photography Luke Gillett, Julie Jocsak, Julie Greco, Michael Wales, Samantha Janjac

24

Faculty profile: Cheryl Taylor

26

Faculty profile: Wayne Toth

Graphic design Mark Hughes Comments are welcome. Contact marketing@niagaracollege.ca

16

myConnection 28

Be World Ready

29

Thank you Eva Lewis

30

Seafood Gala reels in support

30

Teeing off in support of athletes

30

TD donation boosts environmental studies

31

Scholarship helps student find his calling

31

Hamill establishes new award

31

Memorial fund honours Brewmaster grad

32

PenFinancial celebrates student volunteers

32

FirstOntario launches new annual scholarship

32

Give the gift of a lifetime

33

Introducing NC’s Alumni Council

33

Alumni benefits and services

34

Thank you to donors and supporters

20

23

29

ON THE COVER Construction Techniques program coordinator Colin Robinson (second left), poses with Renovation Technician students (from left) Andrew Knapp, Sharice JacquesIsaac, Justice Mercier, and Thomas Welsh in front of a house built at the Welland Campus for Habitat for Humanity Niagara.

30

2016 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 3

Welcome to the 2016 issue of encore.

NIAGARA COLLEGE IS ‘HOME’ TO SO MANY OF US – from students who join us on their educational journey; to staff, faculty and administrators who work tirelessly to make it a place we can all be proud of; to our alumni who will always have a special sense of belonging to their alma mater. Faculty and students brought this to new heights this year, however, when a house that has now become home to a local family was constructed right on campus, under the roof of our Rankin Technology Centre. Built for Habitat for Humanity Niagara, it was the first project of its kind the College has ever undertaken. Read more about the house that applied learning built on page 16.

The Habitat build wasn’t the only construction on campus. We are on the brink of an exciting new chapter, with a $55-million campus redevelopment project well underway at our Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake campuses that will enrich the learning experiences our College has to offer for generations of students to come. Learn more about the projects on page 12. Many campus redevelopment projects wouldn’t be possible without the support of our Achieving Dreams campaign contributors and we are proud to announce the largest-ever personal donation the College has ever received from the late Eva Lewis. Find out why our college community is saying, ‘thank you, Eva,’ on page 29.

Following in the footsteps of launching Canada’s first commercial teaching winery and teaching brewery, we are looking forward to making history once again with the launch of a teaching distillery and Artisan Distilling program next year.

Read about this and our roster of upcoming new programs on page 15.

Our proudest developments aren’t only bricks and mortar but the fine accomplishments of our students, alumni and staff members. We check in with Marketing alum Chris Sinclair who has earned accolades for his award-winning promotional product company right here in Niagara (page 23); and, five years after the launch of the first Brewmaster program in the country, we re-connect with graduates from our very first class who have since set forth as pioneers to make their mark on the booming industry (page 22). We offer a snapshot of many award winners whose efforts have been celebrated over the past academic year (pages 6 and 7); and zoom in on two faculty members who are dedicated to applying their expertise to inspire the future professionals in their fields – NC alum and paramedic program coordinator Cheryl Taylor (page 24), and Motive Power program coordinator Wayne Toth (page 26).

It’s an Olympic year and the spirit is strong at NC, as the proud home of Junior Culinary Team Canada. We hope you will join us in cheering on our team of recent culinary graduates who will proudly wear the maple leaf when they represent our nation at the IKA Culinary Olympics in Germany this October. Learn more about their journey ahead on page 20.

I hope you enjoy this issue as much as we enjoy sharing our news and stories with you. Please send us your comments, feedback, questions and story ideas to marketing@niagaracollege.ca.

Dan Patterson, PhD President, Niagara College Canada

myCollege

At a glance Greenhouse + culinary = Benchmarket

IT’S A CIDER LESSON IN A CAN Cider 101 rolled out of the NC Teaching Winery and onto the shelves of the Wine Visitor + Education Centre for the first time in October. It was the first cider venture for the trailblazing Canadian Food and Wine Institute, home to the first commercial teaching winery and teaching brewery in Canada. Product quickly sold out but whet your appetite for a brand new batch expected just in time for summer.

It’s the perfect time for ‘market’ research … Benchmarket is now open for business!

Located at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus, the outlet offers fresh homegrown veggies and beautiful blooms from the College greenhouse, as well as products made from ingredients grown and prepared by staff and students – jams, sauces, bread, cookies and more.

PURPLE POWER Dental Hygiene students helped bridge the gap between college and community, as they celebrated National Dental Hygienists Week April 9-15. In addition to hosting activities on campus to raise awareness about dental health, they initiated a special lighting for Welland’s Main Street Bridge to mark the occasion. On April 13, the downtown bridge was lit purple – the national colour of dental hygiene. NC students and faculty proudly dressed to match!

SHE RULES THE SCHOOL

Bio-BLITZ GOES WILD

A warm NC welcome to the Niagara College Student Administrative Council’s (NCSAC) new president for 2016-2017 AliceMary Nakiwala. Nakiwala, whose term began in May, has already made history as the first student-elected NCSAC president. Prior to being elected, she was NCSAC’s executive vice president on the Welland campus Board of Directors.

BRIGHT IDEA Mental health doesn’t take a back seat at NC. The College was the first in Ontario and among the first in the country to participate in the Friendship Bench initiative which connects students with mental health resources. The cheerful yellow bench popped up at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus in October to kick off Mental Health Awareness Week.

Students, staff and community joined together at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus in April for NC’s first Bio-Blitz.

Their mission: To identify as many plant and animal species on the property as possible, with the help of experts from Heartland Forest, Society for Ecological Restoration of Niagara College Student Association, the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority, and Greening Niagara. Experts and ‘citizen scientists’ collected information to identify bugs, birds, amphibians and plants, and participated in tree planting and habitat box building.

‘Grape’ expectations Two new wines have recently hit the shelves at the Wine Visitor + Education Centre under the Les Marmitons moniker – 2014 Les Marmitons: Gastronomy Pinot Noir and 2014 Les Marmitons: Gastronomy Chardonnay. The initiative was a first for members of Les Marmitons Niagara – the local chapter of an international gastronomic and social club interested in fine food, wine and the culinary arts. Proceeds from sales help to support student learning.

Visit niagaracollegewine.ca 2016 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 5

myCollege

Head of the class A snapshot of NC’s proud achievements over the past academic year

Pinnacle of Success

Shear genius HAIRSTYLING STUDENT ALLY COLLVER proved she was a cut above the rest at the Toronto Allied Beauty Association Competition in Toronto.

THE COLLEGE’S HANDS-ON ONE-YEAR intensive Event

The first-year Hairstyling Apprentice (level two) student won a gold

Management (Graduate Certificate) program won a prestigious

medal in the New Talent Women’s Trend Cut and Style category.

Gold Pinnacle Award from the world’s leading professional

“Everything I learn in competition can be applied in everyday life at the

association for festivals and events.

salon,” she said. “It’s just about applying the competition techniques to clients in your chair.”

Hairstyling Techniques professor Kris Weaver also fared well, winning third place in the Glamourous Evening Makeup category.

The competition was held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre February 28 and 29.

Hairstyling Techniques and Apprenticeship coordinator Joe Abbruscato poses with student Abby Collver and professor Debra Kay at the ABA Toronto Competition.

Counting stars It won the Best Event Management Certification Program category at the International Festivals and Events Association Pinnacle Awards, presented at IFEA’s 60th Anniversary Convention and Expo in Tucson, AZ in September.

At the heart of the program is the Many Hands Project, where students work with the College’s Renovation Technician program to plan and execute a facility upgrade for a local non-profit facility, and run a series of fundraisers to support it.

This was the third IFEA Pinnacle Award for the program, after receiving a gold award in 2012 and a silver in 2009.

Pictured above: Event Management professor/coordinator Christine Blane (left) receives the Gold Pinnacle Award from IFEA regional director Jennifer Allison.

Making a difference in the lives of her patients is what April Horodenchuck strives for, but she never expected to achieve it while still in college. The Practical Nursing student proved herself wrong last fall however, when she earned two Gold Star awards from the Niagara Health System during her consolidation placement at the St. Catharines hospital mental health unit. The award was granted for her devotion to patients and providing a high level of care and compassion.

“She is devoted to her patients and is very kind and caring. And the patients adore her,” said the NHS’s David Barry, clinical manager, Acute Inpatient Mental Health Unit 1M and Impact Niagara. “She is a wonderful nurse who has a great career ahead of her.”

6 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2016

myCollege

Defining excellence The College’s tradition of celebrating excellence continued at Niagara Day, with three new Awards of Excellence recipients for 2015. Winners included Wayne Toth, coordinator of the College’s Motive Power programs (Faculty Award of Excellence); James McEwen, assistive technologist (Support Staff Award of Excellence); and David Atherton, associate dean, School of English College president Dan Patterson (second left) stands with 2015 Awards of Excellence recipients (from left) James McEwen, Wayne Toth and David Atherton.

Talents emerge at media awards

Languages Studies, seconded to director NC KSA

Third-year Broadcasting: Radio,

Operations (Administrative Award of Excellence).

Television and Film students Kalyna Taras, Jenna Silta, Mac Kropf, Brad

Blazing trails

Curran and Mark Ventresca won

Hospitality and Tourism professor Janet Jakobsen was

documentary, Inspiring Potential.

honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the

The 30-minute film was created for

Professional Convention Management Association in

Autism Ontario’s Niagara Region

Washington D.C. this spring.

Chapter as part of a class corporate

Jakobsen was the first Canadian female to receive this

video project. A premiere screening

prestigious award from the PCMA.

was held at Landmark Cinemas in

A PCMA member since 1993, she was noted for being

St. Catharines in October.

instrumental to introducing the PCMA to Canada. She

Recent Digital Photography

served as a founding board member for the Canada East

graduate Oliver Hannak landed

NC Libraries staff members Bianca Parisi, Jaclyn ChambersPage, Karen McGrath, Ralph Laird and Gordana Vitez attend the OLA Super Conference in Toronto.

Chapter, and took on the leadership role of introducing

second place in Photography

her students to the PCMA and for organizing students

for his work, Series of Emulated

to attend Convening Leaders since 2009. In 2013, she

Director of Library and Bookstore Services Karen

Advertisements.

escorted a record number of students to the PCMA’s

McGrath received a special honour from the

Two out of five semi-finalists in both

Boston meeting.

Ontario Library Association in January. McGrath

Videography and Photography for

Jakobsen was applauded as a trailblazer and a

was honoured as the 2016 recipient of the

this year’s Emerge Media Awards

passionate advocate of industry scholarships.

were from Niagara College.

One for the books

Ontario College and University Library Association Lifetime Achievement Award.

Before she began working at Niagara College in

second in Videography for their

The awards, organized by the

TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS

University of Guelph-Humber, showcase the talent of students

2008, McGrath worked at the National Library of

attending Canadian colleges and

Canada in Ottawa, as well as community libraries

universities.

in Beamsville and Niagara-on-the-Lake. She became a leader within her profession, serving as president of the Ontario Library Association in 2012, while having an active role within the Ontario Colleges Heads of Libraries and Learning Resources.

While the different chapters of her library career are diverse, McGrath says her perspective has remained the same. “It’s about understanding the needs of the people you serve, and to do that, you need to talk to your community,” she said. “My approach has always been to keep that connection strong. The way I look at it is, if I’m sitting in my office, I’m not doing my job.”

McGrath will be retiring from the College in December.

Third-year BBA-International Commerce and Global Development student Gwendolyn Kitiwano was part of a team that won top honours at the X-Culture international business competition. Comprised of undergrads from Canada, the United States, Japan and Grenada, her team was tasked with producing a market research report for Forcier Consulting, one of the largest research companies operating in Africa.

In addition to a cash prize, the members of Kitiwano’s team

Broadcasting students put their skills to work shooting the Inspiring Potential documentary.

were offered perhaps the best prize of all – positions with Forcier Consulting upon graduation, in Cairo, Egypt!

2016 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 7

myCollege

Savouring success

What’s always on the menu at the Canadian Food and Wine Institute?

VICTORY! Sample our recent culinary, wine and beer wins

VQA Promoter’s Award ACCOLADES POURED IN FOR CHEF PROFESSOR PETER BLAKEMAN, the latest recipient of a Vintners Quality Alliance Promoters Award for Education. The award honours those who celebrate the Ontario VQA wine industry with enthusiasm, constructive input and unsolicited promotion.

Blakeman who has been a chef professor at the College’s CFWI since 2003 and an educator for more than 30 years, was instrumental in creating the first wine course for NC’s culinary students in 2005. He received the award in May at the annual Experts Tasting, managed by the Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute at Brock University.

“I feel honoured and privileged to have contributed to developing dynamic curriculum and laying the foundation of wine education for so many culinary students over the years,” he said.

“Peter’s professional achievements and commitment to the grape and wine industry make him a natural fit to join the growing group of VQA promoters,” said manager and chair of the VQA Promoters Awards Barbara J. Tatarnic, from Brock’s CCOVI. Chef professor Peter Blakeman raises a wine glass at the College’s teaching vineyards.

Global bronze WHEN HE LEFT FOR ECUADOR, HE WAS A YOUNG CULINARY GRADUATE representing his college and his country; by the time he returned, he was an international medalist.

Justin Beaulne, 21, won the bronze medal at the Hans Bueschkens Young Chefs Challenge in Quito, Ecuador at the end of October. Part of the Global Chefs Challenge, which draws the best chefs in the world to compete, the competition category is open to participants age 25 and younger.

Representing Niagara College and the Canadian Culinary Federation, Beaulne competed in the Americas section where he was required to prepare a three-course meal in three hours for four people using mandatory items for each course.

Originally from Sudbury, Beaulne is a resident of Niagara-on-the-Lake. A graduate of the Bronze was on the menu for Justin Beaulne who represented Canada at an international culinary competition in Ecuador.

8 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2016

College’s Culinary Management (2014) and Baking and Pastry (2015) programs, he has represented the CFWI at several competitions including Skills Canada and Chaîne des Rôtisseurs. He currently works as a cook apprentice at Benchmark Restaurant.

myCollege

Top 30 under 30 rising stars shine at OHI gala THE ONTARIO HOSTELRY INSTITUTE has named several recent Niagara College graduates among its 2016 Rising Stars, as part of its annual Top 30 Under 30 awards.

The annual high-profile recognition program celebrates the hospitality and foodservice Kimberly Hundertmark (left), executive director, Niagara Grape and Wine Festival, presents a 2015 VQA Licensee Award to Benchmark Restaurant’s manager of dining operations Sarah Scott (middle), and chef manager Alex White (right) at Montebello Park, St. Catharines.

Student Mark Kroekenstoel (right), who is in level four of the College’s Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management program, accepts a gold award on behalf of the NC Teaching Brewery for Beer 101 Strong at the Ontario Brewing Awards in April.

The Teaching Brewery also won a bronze at the event.

industry’s top 30 young professionals in all sectors, recognizing future generations of hospitality leaders who are and will make a difference.

Recent NC graduates who received the award include: Daniella Germond (Culinary

A vintage year

Tapping into gold

Management 2014), member of Junior

THERE ARE MANY NEW REASONS to raise

STAFF AND STUDENTS from the College’s

Benchmark restaurant; Caitlin Kern (Event

a glass to the NC Teaching Winery. At the

trailblazing teaching brewery had reason to

Management 2011, Tourism Management

Royal Agricultural Winter Fair’s seventh

raise a glass at the Ontario Brewing Awards in

Business Development 2010), general

annual wine competition in September, its

late April. The College won gold for Beer 101

manager of retail sales and events at The

2012 Dean’s List Merlot won Best in Show

Strong Ale and bronze for Beer 101 Wheat.

Foreign Affair Winery; Casey Kulcxyk (Winery

Red and Best in Show Overall.

Beer 101 is an extension of the Brewmaster

and Viticulture Technician 2010), assistant

series, available in cans. Several graduates

winemaker at Jackson Triggs estate; Andrew

from the College’s Brewmaster and Brewery

Buwalda (Bachelor of Applied Business

Operations Management program also took

Hospitality Operations Management 2011),

home awards at the event.

financial controller at Skyline Deerhurst

seeking the best wines from around the world,

The Teaching Brewery capped off the U.S.

Resort Inc; culinary grad Justin Lesso, head

the Teaching Winery picked up a silver for

Open Beer Championship in July last year

chef at Two Sister’s Vineyard; and culinary

its 2013 Sauvignon Blanc; and three bronze

with three new medals. It won gold for

grad Amberlynne Plourde, sous chef at The

medals for its 2014 College Rose, 2013

Brewmaster Stout in the Foreign Stout

Drake Hotel.

Balance Pinot Noir, and 2012 Dean’s List

category – the first-ever medal for the

The Top 30 Under 30 winners were

Merlot.

oatmeal-based Stout with a 5.5% alcohol

celebrated and acknowledged at a special

content. The multiple-award-winning Butler’s

reception in April.

The Teaching Winery also won four awards at the 2015 InterVin International Wine Awards this fall. Judged by a group of Canadian sommeliers, winemakers and educators

The awards follow the Teaching Winery’s success at the 2015 National Wine Awards of Canada where it won gold for its 2013 Balance Pinot Noir, and three bronze medals for its 2014 College Rose, 2014 Balance Pinot Gris, and 2012 Dean’s List Merlot.

Culinary Team Canada and sous chef at

Bitter – a War of 1812 inspired beer – captured silver (Bitter), while small batch student-created Liqueur de Malt captured a bronze (American Imperial Pilsner).

The annual competition drew more than 4,000 beers and ciders from professional

Cream of the crop

breweries and award-winning home brewers

BENCHMARK, THE COLLEGE’S TEACHING

MADD Virgin Craft Brewed Lager also

RESTAURANT won the 2015 Licensee of

captured a gold medal at the U.S. Open

the Year Award at the Niagara Wine Festival

Beer Championship. The 0% alcohol lager

in September. The award was presented

was developed by the College’s Research

to CFWI staff as part of the festival’s

& Innovation division, with help from the

annual RBC Ontario Awards which honour

College’s Teaching Brewery. This was the

supporters of Ontario’s grape and wine

second consecutive gold medal at the U.S.

industry.

Open Beer Championship for the non-alcoholic

from more than 20 countries.

beer after only two years on the market.

NC grads (from left) Caitlin Kern, Daniella Germond, Justin Lesso and Casey Kulcxyk receive their Top 30 Under 30 awards from the Ontario Hostelry Institute.

2016 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 9

myCollege

Guestbook Rolling out the red carpet to welcome high-profile visitors ASTRONAUT LANDING HE CAPTIVATED PEOPLE FROM AROUND THE WORLD with his snapshots of the Earth, strumming his guitar and hosting sing-a-longs from space in May 2013. Just three years later, Chris Hadfield landed at the College’s Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus where he met with NC leaders, CFWI staff as well as members of Junior Culinary Team Canada.

Hadfield visited as a keynote speaker for a CONNECT conference event held at Benchmark.

The event was part of a Canadian national conference for educators showcasing technology for teaching and learning 2016.

This wasn’t Hadfield’s first communication with Junior Culinary Team Canada. In November 2014, he tweeted good luck to the team when they competed at their first international competition in Luxembourg for the Expogast Villeroy and Boch Culinary World Cup. Hadfield was also pictured wearing a Junior Culinary Team Canada shirt at that time to cheer them on.

U.S. – CANADA DINNER WHAT HAPPENS WHEN THE AMERICAN CULINARY FEDERATION’S Culinary Youth Team U.S.A. visits the College’s Canadian Food and Wine Institute – home to Junior Culinary Team Canada? A gala feast of champions! The sold-out dinner event held on January 9 drew foodies and dignitaries alike.

Group photo from left: Dan Patterson (Niagara College president), Nancy Alsace (wife of U.S. consul general Juan Alsace), Chris Bittle (St. Catharines MP), Vicki Heyman (wife of ambassador Bruce Heyman), Craig Youdale (CFWI dean), Bruce Heyman (U.S. ambassador), Stafford DeCambra (ACF Culinary Youth Team U.S.A. manager), Juan Alcase (U.S. consul general), and Jim Bradley (MPP St. Catharines) attend the dinner event at the College’s Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus.

FEDERAL ANNOUNCEMENT ON APRIL 8, NIAGARA COLLEGE HOSTED The Honourable Navdeep Singh Bains (Federal Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development), and Members of Parliament Vance Badawey (Niagara Centre) and Chris Bittle (St. Catharines) to the Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus greenhouse. Minister Bains announced that $34 million will be spent upgrading and improving broadband internet service across Canada. Board of Governors members St. Catharines mayor Walter Sendzik and Del Rollo and were in attendance for the announcement.

Minister Bains and MPs Badawey and Bittle also toured the Welland Campus, where the progress of the Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre was showcased as well as the College’s Research & Innovation programs and facilities.

ODE TO THE ROAD Poets Andrea Thompson, Susan Glickman and Patricia Keeney joined NC professor and author Eva Tihanyi on April 4 for a special event in honour of National Poetry Month. The public event, held at Benchmark restaurant, featured readings by the four poets, followed by a Q and A session. The event was also an unofficial book launch for Tihanyi, as the author of eight poetry collections celebrated the release of her latest work, The Largeness of Rescue. Tihanyi, who has taught in the College’s English department since 1989, co-organized the event with NC Library director Karen McGrath.

10 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2016

myCollege

‘MANE’ ATTRACTION

“I’M GOING TO SHAVE IT ALL OFF.” That was Aley Meade’s commitment, without hesitation, after hearing that her professor was organizing a college-wide hair donation event last fall.

Several months later, she sat still and watched her 24-inch-long locks fall to the ground around her as a Hairstyling student sheared them close to her scalp.

Crowds line up for college-wide hair donation event

She wasn’t alone. More than 150 participants from the college community lined up to be a part of the massive ‘mane’ event – an effort that spanned two days and two campuses with a single mission: to provide wigs for children with cancer.

“When I think of a little girl not having hair on her head, this would be a huge gift,” said Meade, who is a student in the College’s Educational Assistant Special Needs Support program. “I could not be more excited to do this.”

Several months in the making, the event was organized by School of Community Services professor Mary Vanscoy. After losing her sister to cancer, Vanscoy decided to give up something highly personal – her treasured tresses – to help children with cancer. When she revealed her intention to her students and colleagues last year, the idea took root, planting the seed for a massive hair donation event at the College.

“I had no idea back then that it would turn into this. Because of the efforts of the college community, a little idea grew into something much larger,” said Vanscoy, whose hair was chopped off to a cheering crowd at the Welland Campus event on March 18. “I’m so proud that we, as a college, are going to make a huge difference to those who are fighting against this disease.”

First cut: Mary Vanscoy (seated right) and her student Aley Meade (seated left) sit still as president Dan Patterson (left) and Hairstyling professor Pat Spano (right) make the initial cut at the Welland Campus hair donation event on March 18.

As a result of Vanscoy’s hugely successful initiative, 132 ponytails were donated to Hair Donations Canada - 360 Hair in British Columbia, which accepts donations that are a minimum of six inches long, as well as colour treated and grey hair. Twenty two ponytails were also donated to Niagara-based Wigs for Kids, which has requirements of never-treated ‘virgin’ hair, at least 12 inches long, as well as $200 raised from unsolicited donations.

Strong volunteer support from the Hairstyling program made the event possible, as faculty and students provided free haircuts to volunteer donors during the two full days of the event.

“I am so thankful that I work for a company that cares for people and is willing to stand behind its employees to help make things happen,” said Vanscoy. “We, at NC and in Niagara, should be proud because we love and we have passion for others.”

Fundraising campaign wins award from United Way ‘NC CARES IN A UNITED WAY’ wasn’t only a tagline for the College’s 2015 fundraising

United Way

campaign, it was one that lived up to its name.

R

Through personal donations and a roster of events – including cut-a-thons, casual dress days, a trivia night and more – the College exceeded its goal and raised $42,629 for the United Way of South Niagara. The successful campaign was formally recognized by the UWSN when the College was honoured with a 2015 Workplace Campaign of the Year Award.

“Niagara College received this award because of its leadership and dedication to the community. Campaign co-chairs Karen McGrath and Lesley Calvin did an exceptional job leading this year’s campaign team,” said Deanna Pope, campaign director for the United Way of South Niagara. “These fun folks made fundraising look easy; but in fact, they worked so well together to create and implement plans – it wasn’t always easy, but they always made it work.”

2016 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 11

myCollege

Redesigning the student experience

NIAGARA COLLEGE’S $55-MILLION CAMPUS REDEVELOPMENT project is well underway with several major expansions slated for the next two years.

NC’s Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake campuses have been bustling with construction since ground was broken on the new Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre and the Canadian Food and Wine Institute expansions in 2015. With the first phase of renovations nearly complete, the second phase of the campus redevelopment project is scheduled to start this spring.

Expanded facilities at both main campuses will enhance the student experience, and expand the College’s applied research and innovation capabilities.

“We’re building newer, modern, facilities that will make the learning experience at Niagara College much more dynamic,” said Ralph Scholz, director of facilities management services. “Moving towards an integrated services model that supports the College’s continuous growth is the idea behind this project,” added Pamela Skinner, vice-president of corporate services.

Taking research and innovation to the next level THE ADDITION OF THE NEWLY CONSTRUCTED 15,000-SQUARE-

proud of,” said College president Dan Patterson. “Our new Walker

FOOT WALKER ADVANCED MANUFACTURING INNOVATION CENTRE

Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre will be a great example of

at the Welland Campus is expected to significantly enhance the College’s

supporting small- and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises who are

capacity for applied research projects.

part of the life-blood of a strong regional economy. I am confident that

“Niagara College is well known for its strong focus in supporting economic development. Our expertise in applied research and ensuring we provide highly skilled graduates for the marketplace is something we are very

this new initiative will reinforce our links to industry and our commitment to innovation.”

Meanwhile, the CFWI expansion at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus supports the College’s position as Canada’s premier college for food and fermentation sciences and will help meet growing demand for NC’s culinary, wine and brewery programs. The 13,500-square-foot one-floor addition is being constructed on the east side of the existing CFWI building and will include an expanded baking and pastry lab, central stores, and quantitative and qualitative labs for food and beverage sensory tasting.

“The new tasting labs will be great additions to our food and beverage science programs,” said Craig Youdale, CFWI dean. “They will be invaluable resources for NC’s innovative research ventures by allowing students and research teams to conduct intensive focus groups, individual tastings and interactive discussions on flavour.”

Renovations to the existing stores area at the CFWI will also complete a culinary, butchery and charcuterie lab. Construction began in October

Construction wraps up at the Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre.

12 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2016

2015 and completion is scheduled for January 2017.

myCollege

Supporting student growth and success THE NEXT PHASE OF EXPANSIONS WILL SEE SHOVELS HIT THE GROUND THIS SPRING ON SEVERAL PROJECTS. WELLAND CAMPUS > A two-storey 39,000-square-foot cafeteria and building expansion at the north end of the Simcoe Building will include a new 525-seat cafeteria, student activity centre, kitchen and servery, and an expanded prayer room, along with renovations to accommodate justice studies programs, including demonstration labs and classrooms.

EVA M. LEWIS > A 13,300-square-foot academic training addition onLIBRARY north side&of the LEARNING existing athletic centre will include an academic fitness lab and flexible COMMONS space that can ultimately be used as a second gymnasium.

Welland Campus, Niagara College > The first phase of renovations will include the relocation of counselling and health services in the Applied Health Institute. Eventually, a new Learning Commons and library with enhanced learning support services will be constructed in the heart of the Welland Campus.

Welland Campus cafeteria and Simcoe building expansion.

RUNNING BOND

Welland Campus academic training addition.

5

ALTERNATING STACK BOND

NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE CAMPUS

6

1

7

> A 19,000-square-foot fitness centre and classroom 1project will include 2 an expansion to the east side of the campus to replace the existing 3 4 fitness centre while adding change rooms, an exercise studio, offices, 5 reception, and six new 40-seat classrooms.

6 LOWER LEARNING COMMONS STUDY LOUNGE

2

ACADEMIC DROP-IN TESTING CENTRE

17

STACKS STAFF

7

3

EXPLORATORY DIGITAL MEDIA

> The first phase of the student services, learning commons and cafeteria 8 project will include the relocation of the info centre, registrar’s office, and counselling and health services on the main floor; and the construction of a new student commons, redesigned cafeteria, and meeting rooms on the lower level.

EXISTING LEARNING COMMONS

4 Welland Campus Learning Commons enhancements.

8

“The campus redevelopment project will tremendously enrich student www.gowhastings.com

life at Niagara College,” said David Veres, associate vice-president NIAGARA of COLLEGE CAPITAL VISION - PROJECT 1 - WELLAND CAMPUS

TITLE

BUILDING MODEL

academic and learner services. “The student experience goes far beyond

SCALE

NOT TO SCALE

the classroom and the new integrated service centres, common areas and cafeterias will allow us to better support and engage our students outside

Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus will gain an expanded fitness centre.

of the classroom. We want to create learning hubs that are inviting and grant students easy access to the resources they need to help them be successful.”

Niagara College’s campus redevelopment is supported in part by the Achieving Dreams campaign, which is raising funds for equipment, learning resources, and scholarship and student leadership opportunities.

NIAGARA COLLEGE CAPITAL VISION - PROJECT 1 - NOTL CAMPUS

Project timeline

VIEW FROM PARKING

Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus cafeteria and student commons enhancements.

The campus redevelopment project at Niagara College is scheduled for completion in winter 2018. Visit the college website for information and frequent updates about this exciting project.

2016 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 13

myCollege

Knights shine in athletics and academics

Female Athlete of the Year: Lorelle Weavers

Male Athlete of the Year: Evan Littlefield

THE 2015-16 INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETIC SEASON WAS YET ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL ONE FOR THE NIAGARA COLLEGE KNIGHTS. Student-athletes found success academically and athletically at both the provincial and national levels. The Knights increased their Ontario Colleges Athletic Association championship count to 35 by capturing three provincial championships, while adding three CCAA All-Canadians.

In the classroom, the Knights experienced a tremendous amount

first two-time All-Canadian in Knights history.

of success. Five athletes were named SIRC-CCAA Academic All-

Knights women’s volleyball also had a successful season, earning an

Canadians, the CCAA’s most prestigious award, which epitomizes

OCAA silver medal for the second time in program history. On the

the commitment to academic success and athletic achievement.

pitch, women’s soccer player Natalie Semenuk was named the OCAA

Two golfers (Lorelle Weavers and Josian Dixon), two men’s volleyball

Central Division Defender of the Year for her strong performance on

players (Steve Stone and Jeff Scott), and one curler (Megan Droog)

the Knights’ back end.

were all awarded with the honour. In addition, 35 athletes were named OCAA All-Academic recipients, which rewards achievement in academics and athletics.

The Knights trophy case expanded significantly during the 2015-16 season. Athletes and teams from NC captured six medals, three CCAA All-Canadians, five CCAA Academic All-Canadians, the OCAA women’s

Athletically, the Knights golf team used home course advantage

soccer Central Division Defender of the Year, 35 OCAA All-Academic

to capture three out of four divisions at the OCAA championship,

recipients, 16 OCAA all-stars, and two OCAA all-rookie

while winning an additional bronze medal. Women’s golfer Lorelle

team recipients.

Weavers and men’s golfer Evan Littlefield each captured gold medals in their respective individual events, while teammate Josiah Dixon captured bronze in the men’s division. The Knights men’s team was also honoured with the OCAA gold medal, as well as the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association silver medal.

In recognition of their accomplishments, both Weavers and Littlefield were named CCAA All-Canadians. Joining them was men’s volleyball player Jeff Scott, who was also named an All-Canadian for his efforts on the court. It marked the first time in NC history that three studentathletes received the honour in the same intercollegiate season.

Weavers, Littlefield and Scott were the ninth, 10th and 11th Niagara athletes to achieve the accomplishment, with Weavers becoming the

14 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2016

2015-16 INTERCOLLEGIATE MAJOR AWARD WINNERS Female Athlete of the Year Lorelle Weavers (Golf)

Male Athlete of the Year Evan Littlefield (Golf)

Female Rookie of the Year Jordan Koslowski (Volleyball)

Male Rookie of the Year Kimbel Donayre (Soccer)

Female Top Scholastic Allison Mondloch (Curling) Natalie Semenuk (Soccer)

Male Top Scholastic Alexander Latham (Soccer)

Female Leadership Award Olivia Page (Soccer)

Male Leadership Award Andy Hein (Soccer, Cross-country, Curling)

myCollege

New programs unveiled Lifting ‘spirits’ in Canada’s craft distillery scene COMMERCIAL BEEKEEPING In the most recent agricultural census, Statistics Canada estimated a need for an additional 3,619 commercial beekeepers across Canada to meet demand by the year 2023.

With this in mind, the College is launching Ontario’s very first Commercial Beekeeping program in January 2017.

Accompanying the program will be an on-campus apiary with more than 30 actively managed hives.

A 2,000-square-foot addition to the Wine Visitor + Education Centre will house Canada’s first Teaching Distillery at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus. Construction is scheduled to begin this summer and is expected to be completed by the end of 2016.

A NEW PROGRAM IS BARRELLING OUT OF THE TRAILBLAZING Canadian Food and Wine Institute sure to lift ‘spirits’ in Canada’s growing craft distillery scene.

Canada’s first college distilling program, Artisan Distilling, is scheduled to begin fall 2017.

The one-year graduate certificate program will offer hands-on training and classroom work in practical distilling, distilling science, quantitative spirit analysis, and distillation management.

The program will be supported by a new on-campus teaching distillery – also the first of its kind in Canada.

“The program is the next logical step for the College and the CFWI in becoming the key centre of excellence in fermentation sciences throughout Canada,” said CFWI dean Craig Youdale.

“We will be the only learning environment to cover all three levels of alcohol production and education, and hope to lead the explosion of distillers the same as we have led the growth of brewing and wineries in our region and across Canada.”

With a growing number of distilleries nationwide, the launch of the College’s distilling program is positive news for the industry. The program has been in development for more than two years, supported by many leading distillers from around the world.

“One of the greatest challenges of craft distilling has been the lack of educational resources for the modern distiller. This emerging industry has been desperately searching for somewhere to turn and I believe the new program from Niagara College will quickly become that place,” said Geoff Dillon, founder of the successful Beamsville-based Dillon’s Small Batch Distillery.

“We are at the beginning of a great growth period in craft distilling that doesn’t show any signs of slowing. The industry needs direction, and after seeing what the Niagara College team has accomplished with their wine and beer programs, I am confident the distilling program will be one that will make the distilling world proud.”

“The launch of Niagara College’s distilling program is tremendous news for our nascent industry,” said Charles Benoit, president of the Ontario Craft Distillers Association. “With few peers anywhere, I expect the school will contribute mightily to making Ontario a global leader in distilling excellence, as well as a foundation for our local community to collaborate and grow. I look forward to all the wonderful times ahead.”

The College will accept 20 students into the first term of the program and seats will open for admissions in February 2017.

This graduate certificate program will coincide with the normal annual life cycle of honey bees and focus on pollinator health strategies for both managed and wild pollinator species.

HUMAN RESOURCES DEGREE The College is introducing a new Honours Bachelor of Business Administration degree program in Human Resources. The program will provide a unique blend of theory and practice by focusing on the principles of applied learning, action research, evidence-based management and professional networking.

Launching September 2016, this program will allow students to become involved in industry projects and research opportunities while facilitating access to valuable networking experiences with HR professionals and stakeholders in the business.

GAME DESIGN The latest partnership between Niagara College and Brock University offers students interested in the gaming and interactive media industry an opportunity to earn both a bachelor’s degree and an advanced diploma in four years – a process that would normally take seven. As part of the GAME partnership, students who complete the Game Design program will be awarded a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree in Game Design from Brock and an advanced diploma in Game Development from NC. This concurrent program will examine the creative and cultural context of video games, their history and the latest game platforms, designs and production models.

GAME PROGRAMMING Also part of the GAME partnership, this program offers students the opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree in Game Programming from Brock and an advanced diploma in Game Development from NC. In addition to learning about the cultural and historical context of gaming, students gain hands-on experience and applied skills in programming and design. The GAME partnership has been in development since 2008 and will welcome its first cohorts in September 2016.

2016 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 15

myCollege

Building dreams

Experiential classroom learning?

Renovation Technician and Construction Techniques students nailed it – literally – this year

NOT ONLY DID THEY BUILD A HOUSE THAT WILL SOON BECOME HOME to a local family as part of a partnership with Habitat for Humanity Niagara, the task was accomplished for the very first time right on campus. While this was the 11th house build the College has undertaken for Habitat Niagara, it was the first constructed in modular style.

It may have been a tight squeeze through the door of a construction lab at the Rankin Technology Centre, but it was a perfect fit. All five modular sections of the house built for Habitat Niagara were carefully designed to be taken apart for transport to its permanent site on Martin Street in Welland.

16 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2016

myCollege

The students began working on the house in September. As months

preliminary lesson, other times, learning as they go under the watchful

progressed, the house took shape. Rooms were framed. Walls installed.

eyes of their instructors. Each class, they move through the process of the

Doors hung. Siding, roof and windows placed. All of it under the roof

build cycle. Usually, they are tasks the students have never done before.

of a spacious construction lab at the Welland Campus.

By the time class is over, they have gained experience and – if all goes

The experience opened doors for the students; providing them with

well – confidence.

nuts and bolts of the trade, while helping make dreams of a local family come true.

“Our students graduate with highly skilled learning outcomes, and a sense of social responsibility and sense of citizenship which sometimes get lost in our society,” said College president Dan Patterson.

Hands-on experience PROJECT LEAD COLIN ROBINSON, Construction Techniques program coordinator who has overseen each Habitat build the College has undertaken, said the project drills real world experience into student learning.

“The students balk at repetitive labs where they build something then tear it apart,” he said. “They like to build something permanent and the idea that they are building a house that’s going to be around for the next 100 years, they take that away.”

About 100 students from the College were involved in constructing the Habitat home – 75 from the Construction Techniques and Renovation Technician programs alone.

With courses adapted to align with the house build, students gain skills in all aspects of the construction – from the structure, foundation, framing, roof, and floor systems; to the exterior siding and roofing; to windows and capping; to interior cabinetry, drywall and trims.

Instructor Colin Robinson (inside window) discusses the building relocation plans with one of his students in preparation for the move.

“It’s very much like a job site. Student arrive at the lab

“It takes longer than it would in the real world, for sure,” he said. “Some

geared up with their safety equipment and tools, and are ready to get

students arrive to class unable to read a tape measure, or not understand

to work,” Robinson said.

why the bubble on a level goes in the middle but, in the end, the house

Each three-hour lab is a hands-on immersive experience, where students

is built to industry standards or, in many cases, better than what is

break off into small groups and are assigned a task – sometimes after a

acceptable in the field.”

continued on next page...

2016 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 17

myCollege

Tool kit to success

STUDENTS VALUED THE EXPERIENCE OF WORKING ON THE HOUSE. “I loved it. From September to April I worked on almost everything – from the drywall to the framing and insulation,” said Katie Mackenzie, 20. “When you put a bunch of students who learn with their hands in one room, you learn a lot.”

Some people go to school for years and still

“You become a jack of all trades. The course gives you an idea of what career you want to get

struggle with finding a job because they lack

into by giving you so many possibilities,” said Brett Messing, 18.

experience. In this program, you actually get the hands-on experience you can add to your resume, which is what employers look for – especially in this field.

Renovation Technician student Kourtney Bourgess

Exposure to every aspect of a home build means that students not only expand their skill set but lay the groundwork for their own career aspirations. Learning which tasks they enjoy doing and which they do not, benefits them in their selection of which trade to pursue.

“I hope to be like some of my teachers and have Red Seal Carpentry Certification and build homes for people – maybe own my own business someday,” said Messing.

“I found out that while a lot of other people are afraid of heights, I really like going on the roof,” said 22-year-old Kourtnee Bourgess. “Some people go to school for years and still struggle with finding a job because they lack experience. In this program, you actually get the hands-on experience you can add to your resume, which is what employers look for – especially in this field.”

Applied learning on wheels

IT WAS UNUSUALLY BLUSTERY, RAINY DAY ON APRIL 4, but spirits where high among faculty and students on move day. This was the day they had been working towards since September: the day the house would be transported to its permanent site at 246 Martin Street in Welland. Each of the five modules was disassembled, then rolled out on casters with painstaking precision through the door of the lab. Each section was lifted by crane onto a truck which transported it separately to the site, then reconnected, with the help of the Niagara Volunteer Framers Association.

Robinson noted that the modular build was a pilot project for the College, allowing faculty to explore the advantages of not having to travel to and from the home site, as well as reduced transportation challenges and weather delays. The modular style build also offered advantages pertaining to storing materials and equipment, and managing resources. With the exception of laying the foundation and transporting the modules to the site, students and faculty were able to do the work on campus grounds.

Tackling the modular build for the first time involved meticulous preparation. Without dedicated engineered equipment to manage the large modules, the build was engineered to suit the College’s resources and what would be one of the greatest challenge – the task of transporting five large sections of a house out of the construction lab’s nine foot five inch wide door. With mere inches to spare on each side, it was no easy feat, however, Robinson noted the move proved to be a great success.

“Everything we built in the shop was built even better than it would have been on site, straighter and more accurate. Fasteners were added to every connection because of the risk of the move,” said Robinson. “Everything was over-built and built well.”

A crane lifts sections of the structure as students assist with final placement at the building site.

Chief executive officer of Habitat Niagara Alastair Davis applauded the success of the first modular build.

“The building industry is rapidly changing with the introduction of automation, prefabrication and modular construction, so it’s more important than ever that this collaboration keeps pace with these advancements,” he said. “The modular construction style was an innovative approach to building that created new learning opportunities for the students. The manner in which the house was transported and put together on-site has resulted in a very solidly built home for the Palma family.”

18 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2016

myCollege

Spirit of giving THE ASPECT OF GIVING WAS NOT LOST ON MANY OF THE STUDENTS who participated in the build. Kourtney Bourgess felt that it made her value her learning experience even more.

“It meant a lot that we weren’t just building the house for strangers. We got to meet them and

Students who built the Palma home are pictured during the early stages of the build project.

see how appreciative they were,” she said.

Brett Messing plans to volunteer for Habitat Niagara again. “The highlight for me was when the family came in and we got to meet them and see how excited and happy they were to get a better place to live,” he said. “It’s really nice to see the look on the peoples’ faces when they get to see their new home and to know that I got

Many Hands reach out to community STUDENTS, FACULTY AND THE COMMUNITY

to help them.”

The experience was one that stuck with Renovation Technician – Construction grad (2011) Mike Barnfield. Barnfield, who now owns his own roofing company, recalled how he enjoyed working on a Habitat build on Fraser Street as a student, and the experience he gained sheeting the floor, building the walls, drywall, flooring, trim and installing the shingles on the roof.

“So many other obstacles come out in the build that you can’t learn from a textbook,” he said.

CELEBRATED the success of this year’s Many Hands Project in March by unveiling renovations to The Hope Centre in Welland.

The non-profit social service organization, which provides support to Niagara residents dealing with hunger, poverty, and homelessness,

His desire to make a difference is a value he kept with him after he graduated from the

was selected as the recipient of NC’s 19th

program. He decided to volunteer his time to work on the roof for this year’s build, and two of

annual Many Hands Project last year. Event

his employees, also NC graduates, helped to install the shingles.

Management (Graduate Certificate) and

“It’s great that this family is getting a good home,” said Barnfield. “I wanted to make sure it

Renovation Technician students transformed

had a properly installed roof to protect it.”

sections of the former medical building into a new multifunctional dining area, food bank, and kitchen. Landscape Technician students also

From house to home

beautified the front entrance.

JUST STEPS AWAY FROM WHERE THE HOUSE

The project was planned by Event Management

WAS BEING CONSTRUCTED on campus, Jose

students, who held a series of events that raised

Palma was taking classes in the College’s auto

more than $44,000 – the largest amount ever

service technician program.

raised by students for Many Hands. A portion of

Jose and his wife Claudia – who is studying to

the funds will be directed to a monthly donation

practice dentistry – were selected by Habitat Niagara to be the homeowners of the studentbuilt raised bungalow, and received the keys

The Palma family visits the Welland Campus to see the early stages of the modular home build progress, during Habitat Niagara’s special Wood Signing Ceremony held in January 2016.

for the food bank over the next year.

Lead sponsor Canadian Tire Bank, a partner of the Many Hands Project since its inception,

to their new home in June 2016. After being

contributed $7,500 to this year’s project.

forced to flee El Salvador and begin a new life in Canada, the Palmas, along with their three

Additional sponsors included the Welland

children and Claudia’s mother, now have a safe, affordable house to call home.

Tribune, St. Catharines Standard, Niagara Falls

Through Habitat, owners like the Palmas who would not otherwise be able to purchase a home, are offered ‘a hand up not a hand out’ with a no-down payment interest free mortgage.

For the Palmas, the house represents the end of a long journey that began when they left El

Review, Alfieri Floor Experts, St. Catharines Building Supply, TVCogeco, TransCanada, Schluter, Chartwells, Regional Doors and Hardware, The Paint Can, Niagara Construction

Salvador, and a new opportunity to rewrite their story in a new home.

Association, Modern Landfill, and Rona.

“Owning a house was only a dream which, thanks to Habitat for Humanity Niagara and the

This year’s project also carried out a minor

students of Niagara College, is now coming true,” said the Palmas. “Every day we try our best

renovation for Heartland Forest in Niagara Falls,

because we want our children to be happy. We love to play all kinds of games, and cannot wait

renovating Sydney’s Room into a quiet space

to have a special game night in our new house. We also enjoy having family and friends visit

for clients. A portion of Canadian Tire Bank’s

us and our new home will allow us to share special occasions with them. This house will be a

donation was used to support this initiative.

blessing in our lives!”

2016 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 19

myStory

Going for culinary THE TIMER IS SET AND PRESSURE COOKER IS ON HIGH FOR MEMBERS OF JUNIOR CULINARY TEAM CANADA. Three years of training and thousands of practice hours will be brought to a boiling point in October 2016 when the team faces its ultimate and final challenge: representing their country against teams from around the world at the IKA Culinary Olympics. More than 50 nations and 2,000 chefs are expected to participate in the event – the largest international professional competition for chefs, cooks and pastry chefs and top event for the culinary elite – to be held in Erfurt, Germany.

Each team will walk into the pristine Olympic kitchen in their crisp whites

the right to represent Canada at the Canadian Culinary Federation of

with a perfect score. Keeping it, however, will require a high level of

Chefs and Cooks selection competition in 2013 – as a new team of

skill and an unforgiving attention to detail as they race against the clock

hopeful culinary students and recent grads, ready and eager to put their

to prepare their meals under the scrutinizing eyes of the judges. Each

skills to the test for the honour of representing their country. Thrust into

member of the team is acutely aware that the slightest misstep could take

the spotlight, they’ve proven they can take the heat in the kitchen as

them first place to fifth in a heartbeat.

they put their skills to test on the world stage.

Judges will be ready to deduct points for the even the slightest variations

At their first international competition in November 2014, the Expogast

from perfection. Nothing will go unnoticed, from their kitchen setup –

Villeroy and Boch Culinary World Cup in Luxembourg, the team won

such as the way their napkins are folded, items are labelled and tools

a gold and a silver medal, ranking fifth in the world. In August 2015,

are placed – to the food they create, which must not only taste great, but

they captured the overall championship title, as well as a gold and silver

adhere to detailed specifications regarding size, temperature, texture,

medal at the American Culinary Classic in Orlando, Florida.

taste, placement and presentation. A grain of salt too much or too little,

While being part of the team has required much sacrifice and

a tiny lump in the sauce, or a cut of meat just a millimetre off will cost

dedication, it has already opened many doors for its members. Daniella

them points.

Germond, who is a Culinary Management graduate (2014) working

“For six hours, they can’t make any mistakes. No hair out of place, no

toward her Cook Apprentice certification, stole the spotlight twice this

shoe untied, no leather unpolished, no knife in the wrong spot,” says

year. In February, she earned top honours among young chefs from

team manager and dean of the Canadian Food and Wine Institute Craig

around the world when she won the Young Chef Olympiad in India.

Youdale. “You really have to embrace your inner OCD and be extremely

She was also named among the Ontario Hostelry Institute’s Top 30

controlled in everything you do.”

Under 30 this spring.

The team already brings this high level of skill and attention to detail to

“The College has opened so many doors for me and given me so many

the table. Their challenge will be keeping the standard under the mind-

opportunities that I never thought would be possible. The support and

blowing stress and time constraints that accompany competing at an

the generosity they have provided has been amazing,” she says. “I like to

Olympic event.

think of the Canadian Food and Wine institute as a family. Being able to

“They could have prepared the Olympic meal three years ago, but it would

grow and work with all of my fellow students and peers has been a life-

have taken them three times as long,” Youdale says. “It’s not just about

changing experience.”

making it perfect, it’s about having only so many hours to do it.”

Culinary Management (2013) grad Megan Proper, 23, is grateful for how

It’s been a long and arduous journey for the team, ever since they won

being member of the team has resulted in personal improvement. “Team

20 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2016

myStory

For six hours, they can’t make any mistakes.

Members of Junior Culinary Team Canada strike a pose in the kitchen, including (from left) Carly Bergshoeff, David Ross, Avi Hollo (coach), Megan Proper, Scott McInerney, Jeremy Gilligan, Robbie Aggarwal, Ben Lillico, Trevor Littlejohn, Olaf Mertens (coach), Daniella Germond and Craig Youdale (manager).

Canada has taught me to be patient and to be persistent. It has definitely

commitment to the team,” says Cirillo.

given me so many pastry skills I didn’t have before,” says Proper. “Most

No matter how many medals they win at the Olympics or what path they

of all, it’s been learning to deal with all the different personalities and

choose to follow when they return home, Youdale believes that their

feelings of my team members, learning to respect one another.”

experience on Team Canada will leave a lasting impact on these young

The team has had the rare opportunity to learn from talented Canadian

culinary grads far beyond what they have learned in the kitchen. “I think

chefs such as Judson Simpson from the House of Commons and John

their experience on the team prepares them for life,” he says. “They

Cirillo of the prestigious Cirillo’s Culinary Academy, as well as celebrated

have a level of excellence stuck in their head that will serve them well in

chefs from around the world including famous pastry chef Ewald Notter,

whatever they do.”

and top Swedish chef and culinary judge Gert Klötzke.

Members of Junior Culinary Team Canada include Ben Lillico, Carly

“They’ve really groomed themselves through all the competitions they’ve

Bergshoeff, Daniella Germond, David Ross, Jeremy Gilligan, Megan

experienced in Luxembourg and at the U.S. Classic; they’ve really

Proper, Robbie Aggarwal, Scott McInerney and Trevor Littlejohn.

gelled as a team,” says Cirillo who has been mentoring the team since

The team is coached by chef professors Avi Hollo and Olaf Mertens;

they were preparing to win the title three years ago. “I’ve been at the

with chefs Scott Baechler and Catherine O’Donnell. Several staff

Culinary Olympics and I believe they have what it takes. It will all come

members have also contributed to the team’s success over the years

down to what happens the day of the competition.”

including chefs Dan LeBlanc, Osvaldo Avila and Ruth Bliejerveld; with

Cirillo applauded the efforts of the CFWI staff and faculty in preparing

logistics support from Melissa Nevestuk and Stacey Havran.

the team to be among the world’s best. “What is really most impressive is the commitment they have from the College, from their coaches,

Follow the team’s progress and cheer them on all the way to the

Craig Youdale, Olaf Mertens and Avi Hollo who have really shown their

Culinary Olympics! Visit ncjrculinaryteamcanada.ca

2016 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 21

myStory

First class: Mastering their craft FIVE YEARS AGO, NC MADE HISTORY by launching Canada’s first Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management program. Two years later, its first class of students who boldly answered the ‘call to the bar,’ became highly sought after graduates. We caught up with some members of the inaugural class to find out how these craft beer pioneers are making their mark in the booming industry.

KAREN ALLEN Fermentationist and project manager, Unbound Farm and Fermentery, Nova Scotia After getting recruited

by P.E.I. Brewing Company after graduation, Allen moved to Halifax as head brewer at the Gahan House where she became known for crafting high-quality beers, including its popular maple whiskey porter Pleasures and Treasures. She recently tapped into a challenge at Unbound Farm. “With our new venture it will be incredibly rewarding to operate in a way of our choosing, and that it coincides with our values – environmental sustainability, sourcing from local raw ingredients, only selling our product locally, and being part of a rural community,” she says.

JEFF BROEDERS Head brewer, Indie Alehouse, Toronto With a love for making quality beer, Broeders constantly strives to raise the bar with each new creation. He particularly enjoys sour and funky beers and has been investing a lot of time in a barrel aging program.

“When I graduated there was around 40 breweries in Ontario.

Now there will be around 200 by the end of this year and the same goes for across Canada,” he says. “It’s crazy.”

MARK CAMPBELL Brewer / quality control officer, Lake of Bays Brewing Company, Baysville Campbell has crafted recipes for and brewed many beers that have hit the LCBO, the Beer Store and other retailers across Canada.

“I often try and brew balanced beers that have complex flavour but ones that you can still have more than four pints of in one night,” he says.

22 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2016

DAVID COLLINS Brewmaster / head brewer Resurgence Brewing Company, Buffalo, N.Y. Collins opened Gordon Biersch’s Syracuse location, where he installed the brewery and ran it from grain to glass for two years, before he was recruited to open Resurgence where about 140 beers have been created since.

“Thinking up a new beer, then deconstructing what needs to be done to get that flavour profile, then constructing it and having it taste right like you imagined is extremely fun,” he says.

While south of the border, he enjoys his classmates’ contributions to the Canadian craft beer scene.

“What they are bringing to the table is creativity, flavour and fun ... stuff that has never been done or tasted by a Canadian palate, ever.”

CHRIS FREEMAN Head brewer and general manager, Collingwood Brewery After NC, Freeman was hired by Creemore Springs before opening a brewery of his own in Collingwood. His approach: making balanced, drinkable beers, although he admits that the temptation to do something off-the-wall can be difficult to resist.

“My greatest satisfaction comes from crafting a beer that is the first thing someone reaches for in their fridge when they get home after a long day at work ... those beers that suit a moment perfectly,” he says.

Freeman reflects on the success of his Brewmaster classmates with pride.

“We weren’t just a bunch of homebrewers with pipe dreams. We were serious about our commitment to the industry and have demonstrated this through our success,” he says.

“It’s a great feeling to know that we are at the start of something special and significant for the craft brewing industry in Ontario. So many of my classmates have gone on to do amazing things in the industry. It’s a real privilege to be a part of that group.”

MARK MURPHY Co-founder, Left Field Brewery, Toronto Murphy launched his brewery in April 2013 with his wife Mandie. It began as a home-based venture before moving to an expanded location in 2015. The popular baseball-themed brewery has now grown from two people to 12 – including brewer Austin Roach who was Murphy’s Brewmaster classmate. “The program’s biggest asset was the fact that there’s a production brewery on campus. All students have the opportunity to brew, create recipes and spend a significant amount of time in a real working brewery,” he says. “I could not be where I am today without the education and training I received at NC.” MICHAEL PENTESCO Brewmaster / production manager, Niagara Oast House Brewers, Niagara-on-the-Lake Pentesco takes pride in the fact that Oast’s entire production team consists of NC Brewmaster grads. He enjoys developing beers around local produce with most of his seasonals incorporating locally-grown fruit. His fave: Verjus Sour Ale. Pentesco applauds his Brewmaster classmates for bringing more experimental styles to the market. “We have helped expand the selection of styles available to the consumer quite a bit,” he says.

JEFF VLASMAN Owner / fermentation provisioner, The Brewmonger Home Brew Supply, St. Catharines Vlasman enjoys running his own business where he helps start-up breweries, supplies their recipe development, and offers his advice. The most rewarding part?

“Watching people get excited about home brewing, especially when they make a beer they are really proud of,” he says.

myStory

Grad profile Pitch perfect Mixing business with ethics was never a hard sell for this innovative Marketing grad CHRIS SINCLAIR DOESN’T SHY AWAY FROM CHARTING HIS OWN

Blvd’s community

COURSE; he boldly leaps into it – with colourful socks and matching

involvement has had

shoelaces, to boot – kicking the status quo to the curb.

a wide reach over

How did a small town farm boy wind up at the helm of a company

the years, including

recognized as being one of the fastest growing leading edge, innovative

Community Care,

Canadian companies in the industry? The path began at Niagara College.

Wise Guys, Wise Girls,

Born and raised on a farm north of Owen Sound – where he believes he gained the work ethic that drives him – Sinclair originally turned to NC interested in its Golf Management program. When he didn’t get his player’s card, he enrolled in Business Administration Marketing. As a student, he valued the work experience he gained through his eight month co-op placement at a small Niagara Falls-based marketing agency, where he became immersed in the field of branded merchandise, and developed his passion for sales and business development. “My co-op was truly what got me into this industry,” he says.

The placement turned into a full-time job for him before graduation and it wasn’t long before his efforts began paying off financially. Despite earning good wages, a crucial element was lacking for Sinclair – a focus on culture and people. His decided to join forces with colleague and friend Shaun Lichtenberger, who was a recent marketing graduate from Fanshawe College, to launch a company of their own. “We both came from very humble and hardworking family backgrounds,” he recalls. “It was more than a friendship. There were a lot of values that aligned.”

In 2007, just three years after his college graduation, Sinclair launched Brand Blvd with Lichtenberger. Suddenly, rubber hit the road for the pavement pounders, who now had a team of staff relying on them to succeed. Sinclair describes those first two years in as “purely chaotic.” While businesses around them struggled during the 2008 economic slowdown, they fought hard for their young company to not only survive, but thrive. “Our attitude was, ‘we’re not taking part in the recession.’ Every sales meeting was about, ‘how are we going to be better, how are we going to be different, how are we going to get more of that market share.’”

Sinclair’s passion for people and sales proved to be a perfect complement to his partner’s focus on internal management. The duo built their company on shared core values of commitment, innovation, integrity, passion and community. These values were never just

Gillian’s Place, Plaid for Dad (for prostate cancer research), the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Lincoln County Humane Society, YWCA, Women in Leadership and Business Conference, the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce, Hospice Niagara, Big Brother Big Sisters, and more.

Sinclair is a member of the Niagara College Alumni Council. He is also a donor of the Brand Blvd Marketing Scholarship awarded annually to a deserving Niagara College student in his or her final year of the Business Administration-Marketing (Co-op) program.

In March, Sinclair and Lichtenberger were celebrated for their charisma, creativity and innovation by the Advertising Specialty Institute when they were named on its Hot 25 list of movers and shakers for 2016. For four consecutive years (2012 to 2015), the company has been honoured with a Promotional Product Professionals of Canada’s Gold Distributor of the Year award. Its numerous accolades also include being recognized by Counselor Magazine as Fastest Growing Distributer in 2013, a Partner of the Year Award from Facius Group in 2012, and an Excellence in Business Award at the St. Catharines Chamber Business Achievement Awards in 2012 – to name a few.

Sinclair received a Distinguished Alumni Award at NC’s spring 2015 convocation ceremony where he addressed graduates from the School of Business and Management Studies, inspiring them to not fear the road less travelled.

taglines or decor on the office walls – they became a template for a

“Don’t be afraid to go out on the limb,” he says, after sharing his personal

unique culture they wanted to create for their team. As a result, Brand

success story. “That’s where the fruit is.”

2016 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 23

myStory

Faculty profile

Cheryl Taylor Dual duty: Answering the siren call as paramedic and prof WHETHER RUSHING INTO A VEHICLE TO BE WITH A PATIENT in trauma after an accident, being lowered 50 feet down the wall of the Niagara Gorge for a river rescue, or entering a home responding to a 911 emergency call, Cheryl Taylor never knows where her next call might take her or what situation she will encounter.

It’s a job that is not for the meek or the weak, but one that this alum and

During the course of the one-year program, Taylor became hooked. She

faculty member has been dedicated to for more than 30 years, in the field

enjoyed working with nurses at the hospital, but once she experienced

and in the classroom – as a professional paramedic and as a professor

her first ride-out with Welland Ambulance on her placement, there was no

dedicated to training those who answer the same call.

turning back.

“When everyone else is running away, medical personnel like paramedics

“I remember sitting down like a little kid in the front of the ambulance

and the fire department are running in. You have to face this job knowing

with the crew, watching everything going on,” she says. “It was really

you’re going to face some scenes you don’t really want to see,” she says.

exciting.”

“As I tell my students, if we don’t run in to help, who’s going to do it?”

Taylor was accepted into the nursing program during her first year of the

Taylor, who is the College’s paramedic program coordinator, knows the

Ambulance program, but turned it down. Before graduating from the

importance of quality training firsthand. It proves critical on the job each

program in 1984, she landed a job with Welland Ambulance. The new

day, clicking in automatically as paramedics race against the clock to

beginning was punctuated by a special milestone during her first summer

respond to often life-threatening situations with limited resources. She is

on the job, responding to call from a woman in labour. Taylor chuckles

passionate about passing along the expertise she has honed in the field to

as she recalls the experience – she and her former classmate, two young

the next generation of paramedics at the College. Most of all, she enjoys

graduates shy of 20 years old with ink barely dry on their diplomas,

sharing her intimate knowledge of the profession and stories about her

helping to deliver a child for the first time.

personal experiences on the job with her students.

“I was watching the baby come out, sweating buckets. But then I would

Sometimes, that means stripping away the glamour. A paramedic’s

raise my head up over her knees so she could see me, to encourage her,

accomplishments rarely steal the spotlight.

saying, ‘You’re doing a really good job! Keep breathing,’” she recalls.

“I tell my students if they’re doing the job for recognition, that it’s not going to be there,” says Taylor. “The rewards are personal ones, knowing

“I had so much adrenaline that my legs didn’t work when we got to the hospital. I called my mom afterwards and said, ‘I had a baby!”

that your training paid off and you responded in the best way you could

Taylor’s career has taken several unexpected turns. After graduating from

in a limited time with the limited resources you have. It’s about helping

the College, she was hired by Niagara Falls Ambulance Service where

somebody else and not really about you at all.”

she was promoted to ambulance supervisor six years later. In 1990, she

An athletic child who was never afraid to step in to help others, Taylor had her heart set on pursuing a career in nursing when she completed high school but was waitlisted for the program. Exploring ways to gain experience in the healthcare field, she began to flip through the College’s

became a ministry trainer who travelled with a team of paramedics from across Ontario to educate paramedics on how to use new equipment. It proved to be a pivotal experience for Taylor. “That’s when I realized that I enjoyed teaching,” she says.

program guide and immediately spotted the Ambulance and Emergency

Soon after, she took a position as a part-time instructor at Niagara College

Care program which captured her interest.

and then to run Mohawk College’s first paramedic program in Oshweken.

24 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2016

myStory

I tell my students, ‘you’re sitting in my classroom today, but you could be sitting in the ambulance beside me tomorrow.’

She returned to Niagara College in 1995 to accept a one-year temporary teaching position, a secondment from Niagara EMS.

our future paramedics are still second to none.”

Smith notes that he is proud of Taylor’s paramedic faculty position at the

The same year that she returned to Niagara, the Ministry of Health rolled

College and that she is able to share her skills and passion for the job

out the Advanced Care Paramedic program, introducing a whole new level

with paramedic students. “The fact that she still works on the road as an

to the paramedic profession similar to an extension of the ER – treating

advanced care paramedic in Niagara only sharpens her skills and allows

cardiac arrests off-site, beginning IVs, carrying additional medications

her to give the students of Niagara College a realistic touch that the

and more. Taylor was hand-picked by Niagara EMS to be among its first

students are lucky to have,” says Smith.

group, and the first female, to receive Advanced Care Paramedic training.

When she returned to NC, she was instrumental to the development of the College’s ACP program, motivated by a desire to alleviate the need for students to leave Niagara for ACP training as she once did.

Having her NC ‘family’ so closely linked to her Niagara EMS ‘family,’ is an aspect of her career that Taylor treasures. Paramedic faculty members at NC continue working as paramedics, many with Niagara EMS. The students also benefit, not only by learning from active professionals in the

Taylor’s outstanding contributions to her profession were formally

classroom, but off-campus, gaining 550 hours of experience on ride-outs

recognized four years ago when she received an Exemplary Service

with Niagara EMS crews. For students, this relationship often opens the

Medal from the Association of Municipal Emergency Medical Services of

doors to career opportunities after graduation.

Ontario. The award was for performing her job to the highest standards, and for notably becoming the first female paramedic from the Niagara region to complete the ACP program when it was first introduced during the mid-90s.

For Taylor, having a dual role as professor and paramedic impacts how she views her students. “I tell my students, ‘you’re sitting in my classroom today, but you could be sitting in the ambulance beside me tomorrow,’” she says. “From day one, I not only teach my students but evaluate them

Niagara EMS chief Kevin Smith, who is also a NC graduate, praises

for the job because I know they could be out there working with me

Taylor’s abilities as a paramedic and professor. “I have had the pleasure of

someday. There’s a big trust factor there.”

not only being a student of Cheryl Taylor’s but also working alongside her on the ‘frontline,’” he says. “Now, as chief of Niagara EMS, I can tell you that her patient skills, compassion and commitment to the education of

Taylor was recognized with a 15-year service award by Niagara College in 2015.

2016 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 25

myStory

Faculty profile

Wayne Toth

In the driver’s seat

MOTIVE POWER COORDINATOR WAYNE TOTH MAKES SURE NC’S AUTOMOTIVE PROGRAMS STAY AHEAD OF THE CURVE. Toth came to Niagara College a decade ago after spending years as a national trainer for a major automotive manufacturer. In the ensuing years, he has led a revamp of NC’s motive power programs, incorporating new technologies and equipment to ensure the College’s grads are on the leading edge of a rapidly-changing automotive industry.

“The automotive industry has really changed,” he said. “It’s become very high tech and we need students that have a computer background, math skills, thinking skills – that’s where the jobs are.”

Automotive service is also becoming more specialized, where technicians have more focused areas of expertise.

“It’s hard for one person to know everything on a car, so what we’re encouraging students to do is find their own niche that they really enjoy, and get as much training as they can in that area – and that’s how they’re going to be successful,” he said.

Cars are in Toth’s blood, and he’s spent a lifetime in the front seat of a transforming industry. He got his start when he was 10 years old,

26 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2016

myStory

pumping gas and doing odd jobs at his father’s shop in Beamsville.

While he’s an expert teacher, he’s also proven himself to be a salesman,

Years later he completed his apprenticeship and eventually opened his

promoting the program far and wide through presentations, automotive

own shop – Toth Auto Electric in St. Catharines – a business he ran for

shows and high school skills competitions. And just as the industry has

15 years.

evolved, so have the types of students drawn to motive power programs.

“The biggest change in the automotive industry is new technologies, so we’re introducing hybrid, we’re introducing electric vehicles and we’re introducing alternative fuels.”

“I enjoyed having my own business. It gave me a really good opportunity to meet people, and hire young people and train them,” he said. “A

“I have a passion for the program, and I like talking about it and promoting it,” he said. “I think it’s having an impact – more and more students are applying to our programs.

“And you’re promoting an education where there’s a career – and it’s a good career.”

majority of my staff moved on and opened their own shops, which was

Toth has also helped to forge strong partnerships with industry that have

nice because I felt I played a part in that.”

resulted in generous equipment donations to the program. He played

From there, it was to General Motors where he was a lead national trainer for AC Delco, working with technicians across the country.

One of his locations happened to be Niagara College. When a faculty opportunity arose, Toth jumped at it – bringing with him a world of contacts in the industry.

Toth’s impact on the programs has been significant. The College’s automotive labs have undergone a significant transformation and include specialized labs, the latest in diagnostic technology, and engine and transmission dynamometers. The machines, which measure

a lead role in establishing a partnership between the College and the Canadian Motor Speedway, a $260-million racetrack development in Fort Erie. The partnership will create educational, research and experiential learning opportunities for students.

His outstanding contributions have resulted in three trips to the College’s winner’s circle. Most recently, Toth received NC’s top honour – the Award of Excellence. Given annually to academic, faculty and support staff, the award is meant to honour the best of the best – employees who enhance college life and student success.

horsepower and torque, let students put the engines and transmissions they’ve rebuilt to the test. While engine and transmission rebuilding is common, the testing equipment sets the College’s programs apart.

“For example, when you take a transmission apart there are 600 parts, so how do they know they’re putting everything together properly? They have to put it on the machine and test it,” he said. “It creates a ton of excitement for the students because they can actually see the end result of their work.”

This spring, the College received more than $1.4 million from the Province of Ontario’s Apprenticeship Enhancement Fund to build a Green Technology Automotive Lab. Toth played a leading role in the proposal for the 3,600-square-foot facility. The Green Tech Automotive Lab will be an extension of the existing automotive facilities at the Welland Campus Rankin Technology Centre. It will include open bays, a work area and classroom, and will house the latest in green automotive technologies, including electric charging stations, alternate fuel technology, diagnostic equipment, green technology simulators, and electric and hybrid vehicles.

“The biggest change in the automotive industry is new technologies, so we’re introducing hybrid, we’re introducing electric vehicles and we’re introducing alternative fuels,” he said. “When our students graduate, they’re not afraid to work on these vehicles.”

In 2009, Toth received the College’s Niagara Champion Award, which recognizes employees who go above and beyond to support the recruitment process. But it’s the Educator of the Year Award, which Toth received later that year, that he values most. Presented by NC’s Student Administrative Council, recipients are nominated by their students.

“I was really shocked by that. It’s probably one of the best awards I’ve ever received because it came directly from the students,” he said.

“I take a lot of pleasure in getting to know them and helping to mould them into their careers.”

2016 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 27

myConnection

Be World Ready Learning beyond the classroom NIAGARA COLLEGE IS DEMONSTRATING that not all classrooms have walls by preparing students for global success through

More than fun and games in Honduras

intercultural exchange and international learning opportunities.

An initiative of NC’s International Division, the Be World Ready program encourages students to step outside of their comfort zones and step into new and unfamiliar learning environments to increase their awareness of the world. The idea behind the BWR model: to help students become ‘world’ and ‘work’ ready.

Each reading week and over the summer break, NC students from various programs pack their bags and travel to locations around the world to engage in study, volunteer and work opportunities. All who participate in the BWR program are eligible to apply for a $500 Be World Ready travel grant.

“They learn to apply their areas of expertise in a different place and they learn to be more culturally aware,” says Joanne Maltby Perrone, study and work abroad coordinator. “This flexible mindset will be an asset not only when they travel but in dealing with diverse communities right here at home.”

BWR offers different types of study plans for students who would like to take their studies abroad. Options include international field studies, international field trips, summer institute programs, and semester exchanges to countries including Spain, Germany, United

Sixteen students from the College’s Recreation and Leisure Studies, Recreation Therapy, and Social Service Worker programs applied their skills to help make a difference in a high poverty community in Honduras from February 27 to March 6. Staying at the Hope Centre – a home and refuge for sick, needy and abandoned children – the students delivered an assortment of recreation equipment purchased with funds raised by the College’s Recreation and Leisure Studies students late last year. They hosted soccer tournaments and other recreational activities for children; compared government policies on issues related to poverty, mental health and addiction; met with relatives of street gang members to discuss gangs, violence and drugs; and assisted local students with homework during their stay.

Gaining ground in Nicaragua

Kingdom, Ecuador, Korea, China and more. While some study abroad opportunities are open to all NC students, others are tailored to specific programs, such as an international field trip to New York City for students in Digital Photography, and an international field study in Germany for students in Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management.

BWR also offers NC students a pathway to explore and learn on a global platform by facilitating volunteer and work opportunities abroad. BWR does not advertise specific international volunteer or job openings but provides information about global organizations and assists students who wish to approach these organizations regarding opportunities.

The BWR program is not only open to NC students. A number of NC faculty and staff members have already joined the BWR movement assisting with recruitment efforts, and preparing in-thefield programming for students and post-program debriefing. From consulting to pre-departure support, BWR aims to assist students and staff at NC with the development of their intercultural skills and global competencies to ultimately help them get closer to the world.

28 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2016

A group of Justice Studies students led by Police Foundations coordinator Jim Norgate rolled up their sleeves as part of a Me to We volunteer trip to Nicaragua from February 28 to March 7. The students left the comforts and conveniences of home behind for 10 days of manual labour. They travelled to the Central Pacific Region of El Trapiche, Nicaragua where access to education has been a major challenge, and helped to prepare the ground for a new classroom.

myConnection

Thank you Eva Lewis Largest-ever personal donation to transform Library, Learning Commons

“THANK YOU EVA” WAS THE SIMPLE MESSAGE EXPRESSED BY

parents emigrated from Ukraine. As a child she lived in Dain City and she

HUNDREDS OF STUDENTS, faculty and staff who gathered in the

studied to be a seamstress before attending teacher’s college. She began

Welland Campus Learning Commons in April to celebrate the largest

her teaching career in Cornwall before moving to Toronto where she taught

personal gift in Niagara College history.

home economics at Danforth Technical School and Bickford Park School.

Eva Mary Lewis, a school teacher raised in Welland who had family ties to Niagara College, left $2.6 million to the College when she

An avid gardener who travelled extensively, Lewis retired to Port Colborne, where she passed away in 2013.

passed away in 2013 at the age of 99. The contribution will support

The bequest was in addition to almost $500,000 in contributions Lewis

the Achieving Dreams campaign, which is raising funds for campus

made to the College between 2000 and 2008 to support scholarships,

redevelopment projects, scholarships and bursaries, and equipment and

bursaries and the Welland Campus library. To date, almost 250 students

learning resources.

have benefitted from the Lewis scholarships and bursaries.

In honour of Lewis’ generosity, the heart of the Welland Campus has

“This (Lewis) award not only helped me focus on school without stressing

been officially named the Eva M. Lewis Library and Learning Commons.

or having to work longer hours, but also pushed me to work harder in

Through campus redevelopment projects, these spaces will be upgraded

school,” said Shane McLeod, a second-year student in Niagara College’s

and transformed to create a more integrated, vibrant learning hub with

Community and Justice Services program. “I am very thankful for Eva

enhanced learning support services including a student test centre,

Lewis’ generous contribution to Niagara College, and feel it is very

academic drop-in centre and the creation of a study lounge.

important that students recognize the impact donors like her can have

“Eva Lewis was a remarkable individual who was very passionate about the important role that education can play in a person’s life,” said

on our education. She has made a tremendous impact on my education which I am forever grateful.”

president Dan Patterson. “Literally, generations of students will benefit

“The value of Eva’s generosity isn’t just the dollar value, but the

from her remarkable generosity. I can’t think of a more appropriate way

opportunity and access that it creates for students,” said former Niagara

to celebrate Eva’s legacy than to have the heart of this campus named

College Student Administrative Council president Shane Malcolm. “Eva

in her honour.”

was an ordinary woman doing extraordinary things, and she’s a true

Born in Sudbury in 1914, Lewis was a first-generation Canadian whose

testament to what we all can do.”

2016 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 29

myConnection

Seafood Gala reels in support NIAGARA CASINOS HAS BEEN A MAJOR SUPPORTER of Niagara College and the NC Foundation. This year marks 11 consecutive years that the casinos have supported the Seafood Gala, which raised nearly $200,000 at the 27th annual event in April. Over the past decade, Niagara Casinos’ corporate giving program has invested nearly $1 million into the Foundation’s initiatives.

“As one of the largest employers in the region, Niagara Casinos has a vested interest in well-qualified graduates entering the workforce, especially in the areas of hospitality, culinary and tourism – many whom go on to have successful careers at Casino Niagara and Fallsview Casino Resort,” said Greg Medulun, director of Communications for Niagara Casinos.

This long-standing partnership has helped more students unleash their full potential by making postsecondary education more accessible and affordable.

Once again, Niagara Casinos continues its legacy of giving with another donation of $25,000 to fund equipment and learning resources, and scholarships and bursaries to support student success.

Top photo: 2016 Seafood Gala sponsor and guest Tom Rankin, CEO Rankin Construction Inc. (front right) is a strong supporter of Niagara College. The company has been a leading sponsor of the Seafood Gala for the past three years, and has donated $1 million towards the Rankin Technology Centre at the Welland Campus. Rankin is joined by his wife Beth (front left), and his guests, (back left to right) Dave and Maryann Edwards, Art and Jacquie Wing, Wendy and Chris Wing.

Pictured left: Dan Patterson (NC president), Charles Daly (gala chair), Richard Taylor (Fallsview Casino Resort) and Bob Watson (NC Foundation chair) are pictured at the Seafood Gala.

Give the gift of a lifetime THROUGH YOUR WILL, INSURANCE POLICY OR OTHER PLANNED GIFT, YOU CAN CREATE YOUR OWN PERSONAL LEGACY AT NIAGARA COLLEGE THAT WILL EMPOWER FUTURE GENERATIONS OF STUDENTS. A planned gift is a charitable donation that can be arranged during your lifetime, but is not available to the College until sometime in the future.

Regardless of income or assets, anyone can plan a gift

Teeing off in support of athletes

to create a legacy for future generations. With easy and

THE NC FOUNDATION’S GOLF CLASSIC RAISED $40,000 this year in

academic achievement or provide invaluable financial

support of scholarships for student athletes – boosting the total amount raised

assistance, while supporting a program area of your choice.

over the past 12 years to more than $500,000!

You may also make your gift in honour or in memory of a

The tournament provides an opportunity for student volunteers to get practical

special person in your life.

experience directly related to their programs, including students from the

Your legacy gift will make a difference in the lives of our

Canadian Food and Wine Institute’s culinary, wine and beer programs; as

students for many years to come.

thoughtful planning, you can make provisions to recognize

well as the College’s paramedic, esthetician, event management, and public relations programs. Varsity athletes are also on-hand to provide golfing tips.

To learn how you can create your own lasting legacy,

Join the NC Foundation at the next Gold Classic, September 13, 2016 at

contact us at 905-735-2211

Peninsula Lakes Golf Club. For details visit niagaracollege.ca/golfclassic

Wendy Dueck, ext. 7569

Pictured above: College president Dan Patterson (centre), is pictured with golfers at the NC Foundation Golf Classic held on September 15, 2015.

30 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2016

Helen Armstrong, ext. 7847

myConnection

Scholarship helps student find his calling SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT BEN LAURENCE GRADUATED in spring 2015 from NC’s Mechanical Engineering Technology program. In his new role as research laboratory technologist at the Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre, he now enjoys helping industry clients in need of advanced manufacturing solutions.

While studying at NC, Laurence worked as a student researcher with the Centre for two-and-a-half years, evolving into a supervisory role where he oversaw aspects of all projects, while maintaining a full course load and doing some industry consultation to keep up his skills and knowledge.

“I love that there is something new to pursue every day. Every few months we are working on a completely different project that challenges us,” Laurence said.

“Because of my work with the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre, I have absolutely fallen in love with everything R&D and I now know that I’m going to pursue a career in design work, whether in prototypes or in designing novel things.

I’ve found my calling, you could say.”

Ben Laurence tests out a prototype of a vibrating settling tray he helped build, which is used to develop DNA/RNA analysis columns used in the bio-tech industry.

Laurence is grateful for the support of scholarships and bursaries at NC, knowing first-hand the impact they can have on students. “The scholarship allowed me to pay for engineering textbooks and really helped offload some of my student debt,” he said.

HAMILL ESTABLISHES NEW AWARD Bob Benner believes in the importance of apprentice programs and understands the need for students to be trained on state-of-the art equipment. As owner of Hamill Machine Company, he frequently employs apprentices through NC’s skilled trades program. “If it wasn’t for Niagara College’s program, it would take us five years to train an apprentice,” he said.

Memorial fund honours Brewmaster grad The NC community was deeply saddened to learn that recent Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management grad Matt Soos, had passed away at the age of 26 in August 2015.

Soos was known as an ambitious and talented young man. He had an ability to lead, mentor and help people to realize their dreams or seek out adventure. He had a very special bond with family and friends.

Benner established The Hamill Machine Company Award in September 2015 to provide a $1,000 award to a student in the Welding Techniques program.

By investing in youth with scholarships, co-op opportunities and apprenticeship employment, Hamill continues to adapt and reinvent itself through new technologies, new markets and new talent.

Pictured above: NC grad and engineering manager at Hamill Machine Company Kevin Dobbs, and Hamill Machine Company award recipient Geoffrey Brown pose with Hamill Machine Company owner Bob Benner.

Have a story to share?

We’re looking for grad stories to share with the NC community. Send your profile to us and we may include it in a future edition of encore.

Stay connected

Visit and follow our social media pages and stay connected with news and events.

A close friend shared a memory, “Matt was multi-dimensional and had an immense range of talents and hobbies – a craftsman. True to his dream — a brew master.”

Muskoka Brewery, where Soos worked after graduating, launched the NatterJack Toad beer in his honour, which was brewed using a recipe he developed while in the Brewmaster program. His friends and family traveled to Muskoka Brewery in Gravenhurst to brew the beer and proceeds from its sales contributed to a scholarship in his memory.

Railway City Brewing, where Soos worked during summers, also held a fundraising event in his honour and donated the proceeds towards the award.

Along with the donations from Muskoka Brewery and Railway City Brewing, Soos’ family presented a cheque to Niagara College. In total, $31,800 was raised to establish the Matt Soos Project Brew Memorial Award.

The Matt Soos Project Brew Memorial Award will be available to students in the Brewmaster program. The top student-brewed beer will be selected by faculty, judges, and students at the College’s annual Brewmaster Competition in August and the student who brewed the winning beer will receive $4,500.

Pictured above: Family and friends of Matt Soos gather to present funds for his memorial award.

2016 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 31

myConnection

TD donates to environmental bursaries TD BANK GROUP visited Niagara College to announce a $150,000 gift for bursaries to be awarded to students in Environmental Studies programs.

While on campus, TD representatives put the finishing touches on wildlife habitats funded by a previous TD donation before installing them in the Niagara College wetlands.

NC president Dan Patterson is pictured in the NC Greenhouse with Elizabeth Spaan, senior regional manager, TD Wealth; Coby Hawkins, Niagara District vice president, TD Canada Trust; Peter Berridge, relationship manager, TD Commercial Banking; Derek Brodie, investment advisor and branch manager, TD Wealth; and Tim Caughey, portfolio manager, TD Wealth. TD Bank Group donated $150,000 for bursaries that are awarded to students in Environmental Studies programs.

PenFinancial celebrates student volunteers PENFINANCIAL CREDIT UNION donated $25,000 to Niagara College in October 2015 to establish a scholarship to support community-minded students. The PenFinancial Credit Union Scholarship will award $5,000 annually to support NC students who are actively volunteering their time to support a Niagara-based organization that is building strong, caring and inclusive communities.

“As a truly local financial institution, we are proud to celebrate Niagara youth who are making a difference by volunteering their time and talent to organizations across our communities,” said Bob Watson, PenFinancial Credit Union’s CEO and chair of the Niagara College Foundation. “Niagara is our home and we are committed to encouraging our Student Administrative Council president Shane Malcolm, and College president Dan Patterson, receive funds from NC Foundation chair and PenFinancial CEO Bob Watson to establish a scholarship.

next generation to continue to support not-for-profits that are building strong, caring and inclusive communities.

FirstOntario launches new annual scholarship NC’s School of Community Services students have an opportunity for financial support, thanks to a donation from FirstOntario Credit Union.

A long-time supporter of the College, this recent donation from FirstOntario established a scholarship to award $7,000 annually to several students from the College’s School of Community Services.

“FirstOntario is proud to assist tomorrow’s community leaders at Niagara College,” says Carey Smith, board chair of FirstOntario Credit Union. “By supporting students in the Community Services programs, we invest in those individuals who are committed to making a difference in the quality of life of others. We believe that giving back to our communities College development officer Helen Armstrong (left), and School of Justice and Fitness Studies associate dean Walter Greczko (right), receive a donation from FirstOntario business manager Holly Mundula (middle).

32 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2016

makes everyone prosper.”

myConnection

Introducing NC’s Alumni Council Our NC Alumni Council members are enthusiastic ambassadors for Niagara College and remain engaged through a variety of activities, such as class visits, recruitment and orientation activities, and mentoring graduating students.

Lindsey Aubertin

Daryl Ledwon

Shelley Schaubel

Human Resources and Communications coordinator, Procon Constructors Inc. Public Relations Graduate Certificate 2011

Senior Account manager, Group Sales for Venngo Business - Sales and Marketing 2007

Hotel and Restaurant Administration 1989

Lauri Brady

Julie Linton Constable, Hamilton Police Service Environmental Management and Assessment 2006

Vice president, Business Development, Brand Blvd Inc. Business Administration-Marketing 2004

Manager, Development, YMCA of Niagara Early Childhood Education 1983

Colleen Lowe

Chris Sinclair David Tsang

Manager, Communications, Canadian Red Cross Public Relations Graduate Certificate 2002 2005 Premier’s Award nominee in Recent Graduate

Technical Services consultant, City of Welland; sales representative, Peak Performers Realty Survey Technician Diploma 1981 2007 Premier’s Award nominee in Technology

Anthony Luongo

Jennifer K. Warren

President, Niagara College Retirees Association

Producer, TVCogeco, North Halton Broadcasting - Radio, Television and Film 2009

E-commerce coordinator, CAA Niagara Business Administration-Operations Management 2008

Catherine Kuckyt

Dave Maciulis

Matthew Wilson

Registered Nurse Care coordinator, Hamilton Niagara Haldimand Brant Community Care Access Centre (CCAC) Nursing 1978 and Nursing Refresher 2004

Principal, Natural Landscape Group Publisher/editor in chief, Outdoor Lifestyle Magazine Horticultural Technician Diploma 1991 2014 Premier’s Award nominee in Creative Arts and Design

Border Services officer, Canada Border Services Agency Police Foundations 2007

Flavia Orvitz

Library Technician 1971

Anna Cobian Web and New Media coordinator, Niagara Health System Owner, Anna Cobian Designs New Media Web Design Diploma 2011

John Clark

Lori Laird Community Services coordinator, Town of Lincoln Recreation and Leisure Services 2000

Jim Lambert Manager, Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre, Niagara College Mechanical Engineering Technician 1983 2008 Premier’s Award nominee in Technology

Emeritus Members Liz Aldrey

Executive director, Phoenix Centre for Learning Inc. General Arts and Science 2001; Social Service Worker 2003

Doug Willford

Orel Ruiz

Library Technician 1976 and Library Computer Network Operations 1996

Associate director, Finance and Corporate Administration, Niagara College (KSA) Business Administration-International Business 2011

Library Technician 1972

Joanna Zalewa

Benefits and services for NC grads Free access to OptimalResume™

Alumni Relations provides free access to OptimalResume™, a comprehensive career management platform with a variety of tools to help you create, present, manage and share your professional credentials. ›› Generate a professional resume in a variety of formats with Resume Builder ›› Create an online gallery of your work with Portfolio Manager ›› Refine interviewing skills with real-tolife, multi-media interview scenarios with Optimal Interview Visit niagaracollege.ca/optimalresume to obtain the alumni access code.

NC frames available

Foundation and Alumni Relations has frames in stock for a certificate, diploma, degree or photo.

For more information and/or to place an order, visit: niagaracollege.ca/alumni

NC GRADS

As a graduate of Niagara College, you become a member of our alumni community, which is more than 75,000 strong.

We encourage you to stay connected and tell us about what you are doing now.

Please update your contact information at niagaracollege.ca/alumni ›› Share your career success story ›› Free access to online OptimalResume TM ›› Receive monthly e-newsletter with successful grad stories, events and news ›› Encore magazine mailed to you annually ›› Order a frame for your certificate, diploma, degree or photo ›› Add your name to the list for grad volunteer opportunities, such as class visits ›› Mentor a graduating student ›› Network with other grads through NC Alumni LinkedIn ›› Keep in touch through NC Alumni Facebook

Discounts & special offers

We have a loyal group of affinity partners, which offer competitive group discounts for NC grads.

For every client that signs up, these companies provide financial support to help fund equipment and learning resources for students.

Home and Auto Insurance ›› Monthly premium payments with no interest or service charge ›› Access to scholarships and academic grants ›› Personal priority attention, 24 hours a day

MBNA Mastercard ›› No annual fee ›› Credit limit up to $100,000 ›› Around-the-clock fraud protection ›› Emergency replacement within 48 hours

2016 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 33

myConnection

Thank you To the following donors and supporters who gave $100 or more between April 1, 2015 and March 31, 2016.

Your financial investment helped support student success.

Organizations

91.7 GIANT FM / COUNTRY 89 A.W. Hooker Associates Ltd. Academy of Driving Unipol Inc. Adidas Canada Advantage Fitness Airon Group of Companies Algoma Central Corporation Altus Group Aon Reed Stenhouse Inc. AOS Group Apotex Inc. Applied Electronics Aquicon Construction Co. Ltd. Architects Tillmann Ruth Robinson Inc. Arvinte Medicine Professional Corporation Ash Interiors Avaya Bass Pro Shops Beatties Basics Beer Canada Bell Bell Media Niagara Benchmark Restaurant Best Western Cairn Croft Best Western Rose City Suites Big Kahuna Sport Company Blake Communications Boralex Bosch Rexroth Canada Corp.

Brand Blvd Inc. Brock University Business Education Council of Niagara CAMMANN Investments Inc. Campus Living Centres Inc. Canadian Federation of University Women St. Catharines Canadian Food and Wine Institute Canadian Tire - Fourth Ave Canadian Tire - Grimsby Canadian Tire - McLeod Rd Canadian Tire - Montrose Rd Canadian Tire Bank Casa Mia Ristorante Chartwells, Compass Group Canada Christie’s Dairy Ltd. City of Welland Claire’s Delivery Service Ltd Clarification Technology Inc. Cogeco Cole’s Florist and Garden Centre Colleges Ontario Combat Networks Commercial Cleaning Services Convergent Telecom Inc. Cooper Wealth Management DC Bank Dell Deloitte Denning’s Ltd.

34 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2016

Design Electronics District School Board of Niagara Doug Forsythe Gallery Dr. Charles Daly & Associates Dr. Christina Plaskos - AEGIS Lumisceuticals EAInfoBiz Inc. Edson Packaging Machinery Estate of Eva Mary Lewis Fallsview Casino Resort FirstOntario Credit Union Fivel Systems Flett Beccario Barristers & Solicitors Follett Higher Education Group Four Point Travel Framecraft Ltd. FreshCo - Store 9731 G. Snow’s Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. Garland Canada General Motors of Canada - St. Catharines Golf Association of Ontario Great Estates Niagara Great Wolf Lodge Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce Greg Frewin Theatre Grimsby Rotary @ Noon guard.me International Insurance Gym-Con Limited Hacienda Tres Rios Hallex Engineering Ltd. Hamill Machine Company Inc. Harmony Jewellers Ltd. HATCH Henley Honda Henry’s Hicks Morley Hamilton Stewart Storie LLP Hilton Hotel & Suites Niagara Falls Fallsview Hilton Toronto and Tundra Restaurant Hunters Pointe Golf Club J. Crew Jeffery’s Greenhouse Plant II Limited Jeffery’s Greenhouses Inc. Jeremy James Photography Johnny Rocco’s Italian Grill Johnson Joseph C. McCallum Barrister & Solicitor Keefer Developments Keefer Mansion Inn Knowledge First Foundation Koprash Inc. KPMG L.J. Barton Mechanical Inc. Landscape Ontario Golden Horseshoe Chapter Les Marmitons Niagara Lewiston/Niagara-on-the-Lake Rotary Club Lincoln Garden Club & Horticultural Society Livingston International Inc. Lochcarron of Scotland Maclennan Juankaln Miller Architects Mandarin Restaurant Franchise Corporation

Martens Lingard LLP Masonic Foundation of Ontario MasterCard MBNA McMaster University Degroote School of Medicine Meridian Metro Toronto Convention Centre Metroland Media Million Dollar Round Table Foundation Mommaz Boyz Mori Gardens Design & Garden Centre Mountainview Homes Muskoka Brewery Niagara Area Business Women’s Network Niagara Bruce Trail Club Niagara College Athletics Niagara College Dental Clinic Niagara College Greenhouse Niagara College Hair Salon Niagara College Retirees’ Association Niagara College Student Administrative Council Niagara College Teaching Brewery Niagara College Teaching Winery Niagara Community Foundation Niagara Construction Association Niagara Event and Wedding Professionals Niagara Falls Tourism Association Niagara Home Builders Association Niagara Industrial Association Niagara Region Niagara Region - Economic Development Niagara Symphony Orchestra Niagara Waters Spa Nikon Canada Inc. Nortel Network Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists Ontario Colleges and Universities Telecommunications and Information Networking Association Ontario Craft Brewers Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters Ontario Wine Society - Niagara Chapter Outlet Collection at Niagara P.W. Leopard Paragon Security PenFinancial Credit Union Peninsula Lakes Golf Club Phillips Brewing Company Ltd. Piidea Canada Pinder’s Security Products Rachel Delaney Insurance Agency Ltd. Railway City Brewing Company Ltd. Raimondo + Associates Architects Inc. Rankin Construction Inc. Rational Canada Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario Ricoh

Ricoh Canada Inc. Ricoh Document Management Rogers TV Rose City Toastmasters Rotary Club of Grimsby Rousseau House Scotiabank SDR Seating Inc. Seaway Mall Shantine Ltd. Shaw Festival Theatre Sinclair Dental Company Sizzling Solutions Inc. Skills Canada Ontario Solmar Development Corp St. Catharines Horticultural Society State Farm Companies Foundation Sullivan Mahoney LLP Sunshine Building Maintenance Inc. TD Bank Group TD Insurance Telcon Datvox Cabling Solutions Teresa Quinlin & Associates Inc. The Baron Company Corp.

The Brass Bell Bed & Breakfast The Broken Gavel The Irish Harp Pub The Niagara Parks Commission The Park Bar The Republic Agency Corp.

The Standard, The Review, The Tribune TJX Canada Tourism Industry Association of Canada Tourism Partnership of Niagara Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake Trainers Choice Sports Medicine Products TRW Ukrainian Credit Union Limited Urban & Environmental Management VIA Rail Canada Vine Floral Vineland Estates Winery Ltd. Vineland Research & Innovation Centre Vintage Hotels Walker Industries Holdings Limited Welland Horticultural Society Westbrooke of Ancaster WestJet Westmont Hospitality Group Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours White Oaks Conference Resort & Spa YMCA of Niagara Zonta Club of Niagara Falls

myConnection

Individuals

Anonymous (10) Robert Louis Aaroe Jacob Acaster Janet Allan Theresa Anzovino Helen Armstrong Michael Audibert Joanne Bakker Kathryn Beacham Bev Beamer Friends of Adam Bisback Colin Bissell Christine Blane Marylou Blatchley Christina Blatchley Dr. Nicholas Bodo Coby Bosgraff Jeanie Bourque Jim Bradley Adin Bradley Leo Brammall A.L. Branscombe Judy Calvin Duncan Cameron Denise Camire Dawn Cawood Martha Casson Jennifer Cawood-Fleury Dan Chalmers Jaclyn Page Linda Chang Brigitte Chiki Tim Clutterbuck Dr. Debra Colley Sean & Rachelle Coote Carmela Costiniuk Joanne & Michael Cousineau Gary Cwitco & Fern Valin Sandro D’Annunzio Matt Dam Matthew Davies Rachel Delaney Tony Delgobbo Sue Den Besten Marilyn Dickinson Robert Drolet

Wendy Dueck The Duncan Family Maizie Dunk Robert Dunn Adam Dusome Dennis & Leslie Edell Konrad Ejbich Dr. Brian Findlay Cindy Forester, MPP Matthew Fry Rene Galipeau Jim Garner Trevor Gibbs Alan & Margaret Goddard Katerina Gonzalez Bette Ann Gregory Joseph and Nadia Gugliotta Greta Haanstra (deVries) Jacquie Herman-Wing Gabriela Hernandez Maltos Branson Ho Steve Hudson Keith and Rene Inman Janet Inman Lois Johnson Judy Johnson Dr. Robert Josefchak Michael and Jana Katz Sean & Kerry Kennedy Dr. John Knapman Sonya Knipfel Tyler Komdeur Frank Krahn Patricia Labonte Tanvir Lall Daryl Ledwon Esther Lee John & Dot Levay Gord Lewis Kory Lippert Mike & Elvira Lucas Janet Luik Bill Lunshof Angela Lynch Ross Macfarlane Allan Magnacca Norma Maguire

Please help by supporting student success

Virginia Marr Bob Martin Karen McGrath Tim and Jennifer McLeod Cosmo & Gina Menechella & Family Shelley Merlo Christopher Montreuil Dianne and John Murphy Joe & Bruna Myciak Eugene Myciak Angelo Nitsopoulos Randy Norris Jack O’Shea Gerald Oosterhoff Andrew Oosterhoff Jamie Levitt Wing Pak Dr. David Pampena Dr. Daniel & Saundra Patterson Bruce Peters Blair & Lynne Pollard Debi Pratt Patrick Robson Paul & Jane Robinson Claire Rosati Dr. Bonnie Rose & Dr. Walter Kubiski Andre Roy Matthew Russo Rick and Sharon Santing Allan Schmidt Ralph Scholz David Schram John Scott Michael Scott Clarence & Sandy Showalter Pamela Skinner Peter & Kathy Soos David Taylor Cameron Thin David Thomas Jay & Barrie Tober Diane Tremblay Dr. Allan Turner Anita Valade Don Valade Marcel Vander Wier Nicola Varalli

David & Louise Veres Rob Walters Bruce Ward Washington Family David Weaver David and Carolyn Webb Paul Weerdenburg David White Craig Youdale Tatiana Young Joanna Zalewa

In Memory

Alex Bartok II Alex Bartok III Barbara Bartok Adam Bisback Jody Clark Keith Davey Patsy Della Valle Jacob de Vries Kate Dixon Paddy Margaret Dunn Medard “Chuck” Frigault Edward Hoekstra Philip James Peter Kormos Dennis Glen Letwin Isabel Hernandez Maltos Olivia Miani Chantal Millet Glen Wing Yip Seto Matt Soos Elena Turroni Carolyn Weaver Len Yust

In Honour/Celebration Irene Gulla Jana Katz Teresa Quinlin Lyn Russo

We strive for excellence, we apologize for any errors or omissions.

Donate online or call 905-735-2211 ext. 7840 to pay by credit card. Cheques payable to Niagara College can be mailed to: Foundation & Alumni Relations, Niagara College Canada 300 Woodlawn Rd., Welland, ON L3C 7L3

donate.niagaracollege.ca

2016 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 35

HERE’S HERE’S HERE’S JUST SOMETHING

SOMETHING SOMETHING FOR JUST JUST FOR FOR

0169_16_jiNCAA_YDM_HAT_NOcontest_Apr.indd 1

0169_16_jiNCAA_YDM_HAT_NOcontest_Apr.indd 1

4/29/2016 9:04:50 AM

4/29/2016 9:04:50 AM