encore - 2018 Edition

encore GAME CHANGERS Breakthrough solutions in applied research help businesses thrive

NC TO LETTERKENNY Spotlight shines on award-winning producer Mark Montefiore

GLOBAL OUTREACH Meet the staffers crossing borders to bring NC to the world

THE MAGAZINE OF NIAGARA COLLEGE CANADA | niagaracollege.ca | 2018

NIAGARA COLLEGE LEADS THE WAY From commercial cannabis production to beekeeping to precision agriculture, NC’s preemptive programs and projects are cultivating skills for tomorrow’s industry needs.

MILLION DOLLAR GIFT New agri-food innovation complex to be named after Marotta family donors

BENCHMARK NIAGARA COLLEGE RESTAURANT

E

xperience

Innovation and NIAGARA COLLEGE TEACHING

WINERY

enterprising spirit intersect at Niagara College.

Our one of a kind

BREWERY NIAGARA COLLEGE TEACHING

Teaching Enterprises are on-campus businesses where academic excellence, an integrated

SPA

NIAGARA COLLEGE TEACHING

teaching environment and a unique learning experience for students offer a shopping experience like

GREENHOUSE NIAGARA COLLEGE TEACHING

no other!

NIAGARA COLLEGE TEACHING

DISTILLERY APPLIED DREAMS. niagaracollege.ca NIAGARA COLLEGE TEACHING

SALON

myCollege Encore is published annually

by Niagara College Canada.

Mailing address: Niagara College Canada 100 Niagara College Boulevard Welland, Ontario, Canada L3C 7L3 Manager, Communications Michael Wales Director of Development & Alumni Relations Wendy Dueck Editor and writer Julie Greco Contributing writers Andrew Korchok, Dylan Brennand-McClemont

4

President’s welcome

5

At a glance

6

Celebrating success

8

Guestbook

10

Knights score award-winning year

11

NC in the community: Many hands make a difference Shiny Smiles brighter than ever Pen Pal project connects students with seniors

12

Transforming the economy through knowledge and innovation

14

Ahead of the game: Leading-edge programs meet demand in growing industries

18

Campus redevelopment: $65-million project nears completion

20

Bringing NC to the world

5

8 9 11

Research: Tanya Hvilivitzky International: Madison Smith Athletics: Mike Puillandre Development & Alumni Relations: Malgosia Sienkiewicz, Joanne Cousineau Photography Luke Gillett, Sebastian Voth, Matthew Aubin Graphic design Bob Roach Comments are welcome. Contact communications@niagaracollege.ca

myStory 22

Field of dreams: Meet two doctors who are back in the classroom to pursue their passions

24

Alumni Mark Montefiore: How this award-winning producer got his start at NC

26

Alumni Rose DiMarco: Rising through the ranks

28

Faculty Jodi Steele: Woman of steel

12

29 Faculty Peter ‘Dutch’ VandenBerg: Broadcasting prof ‘bleeds blue’ for NC 30 Staff Monique Morin: Putting the ‘care’ into Career Services

14

myConnection ON THE COVER Photography: Luke Gillett & Matthew Aubin Pictured from left at the Niagara-onthe-Lake Campus: Amritpal Singh (Commercial Beekeeping student), Mylee Nordin (Commercial Beekeeping program coordinator), Melissa Drake (Greenhouse Technician student), Bill MacDonald (Commercial Cannabis Production professor/coordinator), Mike Duncan, PhD (industrial research chair in Precision Agriculture and Environment Technologies), and Arden Metcalfe-Roach (student researcher).

Metcalfe-Roach holds the Staff of Measurement: a tool that helps measure cold air inversions, and the temperature/humidity profile between and above rows in the vineyard. The tool has five temperature sensors, a GPS, recording device and a radio to capture data in real time. The Minnow rover has a GPS, radio, multiple sonar sensors, and computer controlled navigation. It was built to explore the use of mobile sensors, as an alternative to attaching sensors to poles or vines.

31

Donor profile: Paul Charette Construction leader helps students build their dreams

32

Donor spotlight: Marotta family donates $1M to new agri-food complex

33

Dreams achieved with more than $11M raised

34

Seafood Gala reels in more than $200,000 for student success

34

Above-par support for student athletes at Golf Classic

35

Meet the NC Board of Governors for 2017-2018

35

Benefits and services for NC grads

28

36 Scholarship recipient pays it forward 36

College dream gets a second chance

37

Staff giving

38

Thank you to our donors and sponsors

34

2018 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 3

Welcome to the 2018 issue of encore.

WITH SO MUCH TO CELEBRATE on our campuses over the past year, it’s no surprise that this is our largest ever issue of encore magazine. News of our preemptive programming has been making headlines around the world as we prepare to launch the new Commercial Cannabis Production program in September – the first of its kind in Canada. Our cover story shares details about this and other innovative programs that are not only preparing our graduates for the jobs of today, but for the careers of tomorrow (page 14).

Read about how our College continues to grow as our campus redevelopment plans unfold this year to introduce new facilities including Canada’s first teaching distillery, an agri-food research centre, and more state-of-theart facilities poised to support student success (page 18). You’ll find stories about our continued leadership in research and innovation which is closely tied to the economic engine of Niagara through our work with industry partners, helping small- and medium-sized businesses innovate (page 12).

We are proud to highlight the achievements of our students, staff, faculty and administrators, as well as several exciting program initiatives. Our inaugural Pen Pal Project has connected our Recreation Therapy students with seniors from a local long-term care residence, while our dental students helped brighten smiles of local children at our on-campus dental clinic (page 11). Members of our NC community are also making a difference around the world through our growing International division (page 20). We take great pride in the accomplishments of our alumni and are pleased to share the stories of Mark Montefiore, who turned his passion for film into a successful career as producer of the popular TV series Letterkenny (page 24), and Rose DiMarco who has climbed the ranks of the Ontario Provincial Police to become chief superintendent of its Central Division (page 26).

Sometimes our graduates return to our College as employees, and we are pleased to highlight two of our Awards of Excellence winners who have done just that: Broadcasting professor Peter ‘Dutch’ VandenBerg who is known for ‘bleeding blue’ for NC (page 29), and career consultant Monique Morin who has been a positive force at our campuses for more than 30 years, connecting our students and graduates with the workforce (page 30). Read the inspiring stories of School of Community Services professor Jodi Steele who is educating our next generation of fitness professionals and has made important strides focusing on cancer exercise and rehabilitation for health care professionals (page 28); and one of the College’s major donors, construction industry leader Paul Charette, who was a bursary recipient more than 50 years ago (page 31). Meet our Board of Governors for 2017-2018 (page 35).

We are fortunate for the leadership of chair John F.T. Scott, and the contributions and perspectives of governors from a broad range of sectors who are dedicated to helping our students achieve their dreams.

As we share our news and stories with you, I hope you will feel as proud to be a part of the NC community as we are. Please send your feedback, comments and story ideas to communications@niagaracollege.ca

Dan Patterson, PhD President, Niagara College Canada

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At a glance Small batches, big appeal The Niagara College Teaching Winery has rolled out its Cider 101 Single Batch Series, offering a variety of unique ciders in assorted flavour profiles, hand-packaged in champagnestyle bottles. The new series comes just two years after the Teaching Winery’s first venture into cider during the fall of 2015. Cider 101 Single Batch Series is available in 750 mL bottles at the Wine Visitor + Education Centre.

Huckla was elected by NCSAC’s board in a February vote-of-confidence, and then confirmed by the student body during the March voting period. Huckla’s second term began on May 1 and will conclude on April 30, 2019. Riding last year’s success, Huckla looks to continue to help grow NCSAC’s presence at the College. Visit ncsac.ca.

Sink teeth into dental health Helping the College community brush up on oral health was a mission for dental students this spring, with special events held in the Applied Health Institute. On March 7, Dental Assisting students marked Dental Assistants Recognition Week with a variety of displays and activities.

Dental Hygiene students also supported their future profession by marking National Dental Hygienists Week on April 10.

Ryan Huckla leads the pack at NCSAC After completing a very successful and exciting 2017-2018 term as Niagara College Student Administrative Council president, Ryan Huckla is back for another year.

It was more than fun and games that drew hundreds to this year’s Game Development Showcase: student innovation was at play.

Students unveiled their creative video game projects before the college community, the public and industry professionals at the Welland Campus on April 19. A collaboration between the NC Game Development and the dual credential NC/ Brock University Game Programming and Game Design programs, the event brought all three areas together to display their skills and love for gaming.

Recipe for success Chefs from the Canadian Food and Wine Institute are stirring up excitement as part of a cookbook published by the Canadian Museums Association, Great Canadian Masters 2. The 96-page book features culinary creations representing the unique tastes of Canada from the country’s top chefs, including NC’s CFWI dean Craig Youdale and chef professors Michael Olson, Olaf Mertens, Catherine O’Donnell, Karen Schoenrank, Alan Kerr, Peter Blakeman, Keith Ellis, Trevor Littlejohn, Scott Baechler, Sam Seaver and Ruth Bliejerveld.

The book is available at museumsofcanada.ca and museums across Canada.

Click into new job opportunities NC’s Employment and Training Solutions office launched a new website, niagaracollege.ca/ ets, aimed at boosting connectivity between job seekers and employers. The site offers an easy-to-use job postings board open to anyone in the community seeking employment. No profile needed – just browse job opportunities and apply through the site.

Upping their game

Cutting-edge applied learning

Greening to sanctuary status

The Niagara College Teaching Hair Salon has been getting rave reviews since it relocated to its modern new digs at the Welland Campus last fall, from its former location in Niagara Falls. Open to the public, the 9,000-squarefoot educational salon, located in the Pavilion building, offers services provided by Hairstyling and Hairstylist Apprenticeship students, supervised by staff and faculty. The salon is now open during the summer months.

To view a full list of services available, visit ncteachinghairsalon.ca.

NC has greened its way to becoming the first postsecondary institution in Canada to achieve Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary designation. The international recognition was granted to the NOTL Campus for projects to enhance its wildlife habitat, achieve sensitive maintenance practices and inform people about its commitment to environmental quality. Photo: Student Katie Bristow (left) tours Jessica Latus, Audubon International director of Sustainable Community Programs, around campus for an on-site audit.

2018 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 5

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Celebrating success Meet students and employees who put the ‘NC’ in excellence

Awards of excellence

CFWI DEAN SCOOPS UP SPIRIT OF NIAGARA AWARD

STUDENTS VOTE FOR HEAD OF THE CLASS

Canadian Food and Wine Institute dean

The NC Student

Craig Youdale received the Celia Liu Award

Administrative Council

for Excellence in Hospitality at the Spirit

presented its annual

of Niagara Awards. The award is given to

Educator of the Year

an individual, group or business that has

Awards in April.

demonstrated outstanding commitment to

Kelly Martindale,

delivering excellence in hospitality, proven

program coordinator

over multiple years, with a positive, unifying

and professor in

Three NC employees were recognized with the College’s prestigious Awards of Excellence for 2017. The annual awards are presented each year to a member of faculty, administration and support staff.

The latest honorees included associate dean, Workforce Development Joanne Bakker (administrative); coordinator and second-year TV Production professor, Broadcasting - Radio, TV and Film, Peter VandenBerg (faculty); and career consultant, Career Services/ Student Services Monique Morin (support staff).

Craig Youdale receives the Celia Liu Award for Excellence in Hospitality at the Spirit of Niagara Award. Youdale stands at the award ceremony with Liu’s sister Erica Lepp, who also established a memorial bursary in Liu’s honour at Niagara College in 2014.

influence

the Occupational

on various

Therapist Assistant

sectors of the

and Physiotherapist

community.

Assistant programs,

The award

won the student vote

is presented

for the full-time faculty

annually in

award while chef

remembrance

professor Chris Smythe

of Celia Liu,

garnered the vote for

who was one

part-time faculty.

of NOTL’s most highly regarded innkeepers and the driving force behind raising the town’s recognition as a top wine

and culinary destination. Organized by the Niagara-on-the-Lake Chamber of Commerce, the award ceremony was held on February 27.

CHAMPIONS FOR CHILDREN NC was recognized by the Boys and Girls Club of Niagara in January with a Champion for Children Award. The award acknowledged Benchmark restaurant’s involvement with the

RAISE A GLASS TO VQA AWARD WINNER

BGCN’s holiday party, an innovative research

NC Benchmark restaurant manager Sarah Scott was recognized with

project completed for the Club by students

a Promoter Award from the Vintners’ Quality Alliance at an annual

from the College’s Business Administration –

Expert Tastings event May 2. The awards recognize individuals who

Marketing program, and a promotional Club

have consistently and enthusiastically raised the profile of VQA wines

video created by students in the Broadcasting

through education and promotion. Scott won the award in the Hospitality

– Radio, Television and Film program. In

category, which highlights sommeliers, restaurateurs, wait staff, or chefs

March, NC’s senior advisor to the president

who present Ontario VQA wines with knowledge and enthusiasm to the

Rob Walters, BGCN president, also received a

dining public.

BGCN Outstanding Board Director Award.

6 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2018

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CICAN AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE

AUTO GIRLS REV UP A PERFECT PITCH

NC was in the national spotlight on April 30, winning two Awards of Excellence from Colleges

CANADA 150 AWARD

and Institutes Canada.

The College as well as staff member Alison

Human

Ryder (pictured) were presented with

Resources

Canada 150 awards in February. Hosted

professor and

by Niagara Centre MP Vance Badawey

coordinator

(pictured), the awards were held to mark

Holly

Canada’s sesquicentennial and recognize

Catalfamo, PhD, was honoured with

community leaders who have contributed

a Gold Medal Leadership Excellence

to making the region what it is today. NC

Award, which recognizes those who have

was applauded for its leadership in applied

exhibited consistent excellence in teaching

education and training, and for its history

and has had a significant impact on the

of consistently ranking among Ontario’s top

personal and academic growth of students.

colleges for student satisfaction. Ryder,

Catalfamo was recognized for launching

who is an academic advisor for the School

HR@NC, a student association focused

of Community Services, was awarded in

on establishing connections to the HR

acknowledgment of her support for LGBTQ2

community. She was also applauded for

youth at the College and in the community.

her involvement in several domestic and

Holly Catalfamo stands with president Dan Patterson after they accepted awards at the CICan annual conference in Victoria, B.C.

international research initiatives. NC was awarded a silver for Applied Research and Innovative Excellence – the highest level of the award granted to any Ontario college in this category – for its impact on industry, students, faculty and the applied research ecosystem of colleges across Canada.

Jenny Vu is pictured (middle) with president Dan Patterson, and Lesley Calvin, associate director of Student Engagement, Academic Advising and Career Services.

NC VOLUNTEER AND LEADERSHIP AWARDS NC’s Centre for Student Engagement and Leadership was proud to shine the light on the College’s student leaders on March 28 at the fourth annual NC Volunteer and Leadership Awards. The event included an awards ceremony to recognize the hard work and dedication of many students involved in campus and community engagement, volunteerism and leadership development initiatives across all areas of campus life.

Jenny Vu received the highest honour as the winner of the President’s Engagement Award.

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS ONTARIO

Maksym Skakun, Aleksandra Frolova, Levgeniia Kalinina, and Alexandra I, students in NC’s Business Administration – Marketing and Business Administration (Co-op) – Supply Chain and Operations Management (Coop) programs, made up the Auto Girls team, which won NC’s Perfect Pitch competition. They are joined by event judges Mishka Balsom, president and CEO of the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce; Vivian Kinnaird, dean of Business, Hospitality and Tourism; and Matt Goch, small business advisor with Meridian Credit Union.

Auto Girls – an auto shop run by women, for women – topped a strong field of studentcreated business ideas at NC’s Pitch Perfect competition held on April 18. Organized by student entrepreneurship hub ncTakeOff, teams of students from the School of Business and Management presented their ideas before a panel of judges. The winning team received a $3,000 award from event sponsor Meridian Credit Union to advance their business idea.

SPIRIT OF ENTERPRISE SCHOLARSHIP AWARD Business Administration –

Event Management

Marketing student

student Kelly Burke

Iris Lee captured

received a Student

NC’s spirit of

Leadership Award

entrepreneurship

from Festivals and

in February.

Events Ontario. The

Lee, who is

annual FEO Student

also a research

Leadership Award

assistant with

recognizes an Ontario

the College’s Research and Innovation Team,

student with exceptional potential, passion

was named recipient of the Gene Luczkiw

and dedication who engages in an activity

Spirit of Enterprise $1,000 scholarship award

with the aim of bringing communities

at the 2018 Niagara Entrepreneur of the

together for the purpose of celebration.

Year Awards.

Burke received the award at the FEO Awards Gala which was held on March 2 at the Hamilton Convention Centre. As the winner, she received a $500 bursary.

2018 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 7

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Guestbook Welcoming special visitors to our campuses PRIME MINISTER JUSTIN TRUDEAU VISITS NOTL CAMPUS

President Dan Patterson (left), NC winemaker Gavin Robertson (middle), and prime minister Justin Trudeau survey the College’s teaching vineyard.

Canada’s Prime Minister got a taste of the

wouldn’t want their daily commute to include

that is going to be more and more necessary

unique brand of applied education Niagara

a vineyard like this?”

in the world of wine, is a very exciting

College offers when he toured the Wine Visitor

The prime minister also vowed support for

thing,” he said.

+ Education Centre and the NC Teaching

Canadian agriculture, produce and wines, and

Winery at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus

pointed to NC’s wine programs as essential in

prime minister and to share some of the

in August.

supporting the growth of the industry.

interesting and innovative work that our

On the tour, Prime Minister Trudeau met

“Having institutions like Niagara College

students and staff, and learned about the

developing capacity for individual Canadians,

winemaking process from students and recent

for young Canadians to develop the expertise

“We were very pleased to welcome the

students, staff and faculty are doing,” said College president Dan Patterson.

graduates of the Winery and Viticulture Technician program.

“Niagara College’s Winery and Viticulture Technician program provided me with the hands-on skills and experience I needed to succeed in the grape and wine industry,” said Di Yao, a recent graduate of the Winery and Viticulture Technician program who had moved on to work in the industry at JacksonTriggs Winery.

Yao and College winemaker/professor Gavin Robertson demonstrated winemaking processes on the tour.

The sunny Saturday morning also impressed upon the prime minister the natural beauty of the NOTL campus, which serves as a living laboratory nestled at the base of the Niagara Escarpment.

“I’m envious that this is work for you,” the prime minister said of his surroundings in the 40-acre teaching vineyard. “Who

8 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2018

Winery and Viticulture Technician graduate Di Yao, and Winery and Viticulture Technician student Kalem Magny, demonstrate winemaking processes to prime minister Justin Trudeau and St. Catharines MP Chris Bittle.

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THE HON. KIRSTY DUNCAN, FEDERAL MINISTER OF SCIENCE Federal Minister of Science Kirsty Duncan and MP Vance Badawey got an up-close look at applied learning in action in July, when they toured the Wine Visitor + Education Centre, Benchmark restaurant, and the Canadian Food and Wine Institute at the NOTL Campus.

Minister Duncan and MP Badawey also visited the Welland Campus, where they toured the Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre, spoke with researchers, staff and students, and met with industry partners.

Federal science minister Kirsty Duncan and Niagara Centre MP Vance Badawey take in the view of SIF-funded building now under construction at the NOTL Campus that will include agri-business research.

HANDWRITING ANALYST JAMIE MASON COHEN One of the world’s most in-demand handwriting analysts Jamie Mason Cohen gave a presentation at the Welland Campus in April, showing students, staff, faculty and the public how their handwriting reflects their personality. Cohen has been featured on TV shows including The Social, Global’s The Morning Show; in articles including Forbes, and The Daily Express in the UK; and has been a hit with TEDx talk audiences.

JOËL LIGHTBOUND, PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY TO MINISTER OF FINANCE

Jamie Mason Cohen, who has analyzed the handwriting of Terry Fox, Oprah, Kate Middleton, Beyonce, Donald Trump, Tom Brady, Roger Federer, Meghan Markle, Ryan Gosling, and many more, visited the Welland Campus in April.

On the week of International Women’s Day,

SENATOR PETER HARDER

Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of

Senator Peter Harder visited the Teaching

Finance Joël Lightbound got an inside look

Greenhouse in January to learn about the

at the world of women in skilled trades as he

College’s Commercial Cannabis Production

THE HON. BARDISH CHAGGER, FEDERAL MINISTER OF SMALL BUSINESS AND TOURISM

toured welding labs at the Welland Campus.

program, which launches fall 2018. Senator

In March, the NOTL Campus hosted Federal

Parliamentary Secretary Lightbound, as well

Harder praised the College for its preemptive

Minister of Small Business and Tourism

as MPs Vance Badawey and Chris Bittle,

approach to hands-on learning that led to the

Bardish Chagger, who held a roundtable

met with five female students in the School

creation of the program and emphasized that

discussion on Canada’s tourism sector and

of Trades to hear about their experiences

NC is becoming a leading force in Canada’s

Niagara’s wine tourism industry. Local MPs,

studying and working in trades traditionally

emerging cannabis industry, in response to a

industry representatives, and NC staff and

dominated by men.

growing demand for specialized workers.

board members participated.

Parliamentary Secretary Lightbound and St. Catharines MP Chris Bittle take in a student welding demonstration inside the Rankin Technology Centre at the Welland Campus in March.

Senator Peter Harder discusses the Commercial Cannabis Production program with Al Unwin, associate dean of Horticulture and Environmental Studies, in the NC Teaching Greenhouse.

Minister Chagger speaks with second-year Winery and Viticulture Technician student Kalem Magny in the Wine Visitor + Education Centre during a March visit to the NOTL Campus.

2018 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 9

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Knights score award-winning year 2017-18 WAS A SUCCESSFUL YEAR FOR THE COLLEGE’S INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETICS PROGRAM. The Niagara Knights captured four provincial medals, including the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) gold medal in women’s curling, silver medal in women’s volleyball, bronze medal in men’s curling, and Division II gold medal in men’s golf.

All nine Niagara Knights teams qualified for the post-season, with eight of the nine programs advancing to OCAA championship tournaments. In all, the Knights won more than 60% of their games, marking one of the highest winning percentage seasons in intercollegiate program history.

Five student-athletes earned the prestigious Canadian College Athletic Association (CCAA) Academic All-Canadian Awards for having a minimum 80% average while being named an OCAA All-Star, including Rachel Rivers (women’s volleyball), Jacob Williamson (men’s volleyball), Chelsea Brandwood (women’s curling), David Cressman (men’s curling), and Samuel Robson (men’s soccer).

On the field of play, the Knights earned a record 21 OCAA year-end awards including five first team all-stars, six second team all-stars, four league all-stars, three championship all-stars, two west division

to raise awareness for mental health programming in the Niagara region. In March, the Knights hosted the 2018 OCAA men’s basketball championship where the top eight teams in the province visited Welland for three days of competition.

The year culminated with the 49th annual Niagara Knights Athletic Awards Banquet.

The biggest awards of the evening were presented to Mary Ingribelli (St. Catharines) of the Knights women’s basketball program and Samuel Robson (Milton) of the men’s soccer program, who were presented with the College’s male and female Athlete of the Year awards.

Ingribelli led the Knights to the first 14win season in the history of the women’s basketball program. She also established a new NC women’s basketball single season scoring record, earning her OCAA first team, and OCAA Championship all-star selections.

Robson, the standout goalkeeper of the

NC a slam dunk for Basketball Canada’s Michele O’Keefe Longtime sport management leader Michele O’Keefe will be joining the NC team as associate director of Athletics and Recreation, beginning July 3.

O’Keefe is returning to her hometown in Niagara after serving as president and CEO of Canada Basketball. She is also the former executive director of Ontario Basketball (2007-2010).

During her time with Canada Basketball, O’Keefe was integral to bringing several world-class basketball tournaments to Canada, including the FIBA U18 Americas Championship 2018, coming to St. Catharines this June. O’Keefe [pictured above] has deep ties to the Niagara region, having grown up in Welland, and is a board member of the 2021 Canada Summer Games Host Society.

Knights soccer program, became the first soccer player to earn a NC male or female Athlete of the Year award. Robson allowed

(women’s soccer) and Anu Makinwa (men’s

just eight goals in 11 starts this season, and

soccer), Leadership Award winners Jordan

was named an OCAA league all-star, and

Wilson (men’s basketball) and Shannon

CCAA Academic All-Canadian.

Halliday (women’s soccer), and Top Scholastic

Other major award winners included Rookies of the Year Michelle Maecker

award winners Alex Latham (men’s soccer) and Hannah Baker (women’s basketball).

Rookie of the Year awards, and a west division Defensive Player of the Year award.

In the classroom, 35 student-athletes earned OCAA All-Academic awards presented to those who achieve honour standings at their institutions.

The Knights also hosted three major events during the 2017-18 season. The year kicked off with the third annual Blue and White Home Opener that saw a sellout crowd watch the men’s and women’s volleyball programs take on the Fanshawe Falcons. In January, the Knights hosted the first NC Mental Health Matchup against the Sheridan Bruins basketball teams. The event was designed

Niagara Knights men’s and women’s athletes and Rookies of the Year Michelle Maecker, Mary Ingribelli, Samuel Robson, and Anu Makinwa steal the spotlight at the 49th Niagara Knights awards banquet.

Women’s volleyball: Members of the women’s volleyball team sports silver medals at the 2018 OCAA women’s volleyball championship.

10 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2018

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NC in the community

First-year Recreation Therapy student Jodi Eberly (left) and Heidehof resident Hedy Dueck (right) meet in person on April 10 for the first time after corresponding for four weeks via handwritten letters as part of the Pen Pal program.

Event Management students raised funds for Community Care St. Catharines and Thorold, as well as NCSAC’s Nourishing Minds food program as part of this year’s Many Hands Project.

Many hands make a difference Through the 21st annual Many Hands Project, Event Management (graduate certificate) students not only gained valuable work experience, they reached out to help others.

As part of the project, students in the School of Hospitality, Tourism and Sport support a community non-profit organization with fundraising, marketing and public awareness of the agency. Students planned, managed and hosted three fundraising events which raised $16,800 for Community Care St. Catharines and Thorold, as well as $10,453 for the NC Student Administrative Council’s Nourishing Minds food program.

“The idea behind the Many Hands Project is to provide our students with the opportunity to put the skills and knowledge they develop in the classroom to use in the real world, while at the same time learning the value of community service and leadership,” said Christine Blane, Event Management professor and coordinator.

New Pen Pal project connects Rec Therapy students with seniors A new Pen Pal project launched at NC in January not only helped bridge generational gaps between college students and seniors, but became a transformative journey for both.

More than 60 first-year Recreation Therapy students participated in the inaugural project as part of a positive intervention assignment for their Applied Positive Strategies in Therapeutic Recreation class. For four weeks, they exchanged hand-written letters with seniors from St. Catharines-based Heidehof Home for the Aged. Each week, the letters focused on a different pillar of well-being: happiness, compassion, diversity and

Shiny Smiles brighter than ever NC dental students helped brighten the smiles of local elementary school children in need of

gratitude. On the fifth and final week in April, they had an opportunity to explore the final pillar, social connectedness, and meet their pen pals face-to-face at Heidehof.

“Students have found this exercise

treatment as part of the newly relaunched Shiny

extremely meaningful and I have heard and

Smiles program.

seen a range of reactions – from excitement

The program provides free dental

about receiving their pen pal letter this week,

treatment to local children with limited or

to deep compassion when they read about

no access to dental care. The initiative is a

their pen pal’s stories,” said NC Recreation

collaboration between the College, Niagara

Therapy professor Jaclyn Frail, who developed

Region Public Health, as well as community

and launched the initiative.

dentists, local school boards, and the Welland Neighbourhood Project.

On April 6, 28 students from four Welland elementary schools received treatment at the NC

Heather Vokey, manager of life enrichment services at Heidehof Home for the Aged, said the residents benefit from the social

Dental Clinic, located at the Welland Campus, after a pre-screening last year by Niagara Public

interaction with the students, and the

Health. Working alongside hygienists from Public Health, students from the Dental Hygiene,

partnership also serves to promote feelings of

Dental Assisting, and Dental Office Administration programs assisted with providing services

connectedness with the community.

including x-rays, scaling, polish, fluoride, sealants, fillings and extractions.

“Our students will have a chance to make a real difference for local families and gain valuable experience in the process,” said Carolyn Triemstra, dean of Community and Health Studies.

NC’s dental program manager Leeza Kristalyn noted that students benefit from collaborating

Vokey noted she is a strong supporter of intergenerational programming.

“The residents were eager to read and reply to the students’ letters. They became very

with Niagara Region Public Health professionals while giving them a chance to work with

engaged,” she said. “Magic happens when

children who require a different chair-side manner than adults. “Many of these children have

two generations are together.”

never visited a dentist’s office before and many are faced with dental anxiety,” she said.

2018 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 11

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Transforming the economy through knowledge and innovation BREAKTHROUGH SOLUTIONS AND GAME CHANGING RESEARCH In terms of upward momentum, Niagara College is on the same trajectory as the region of Niagara. In fact, it has been a crucial player in supporting the area’s new economic upswing by providing the knowledge bedrock to help small- and medium-sized enterprises innovate and thrive.

This spring, Niagara’s economy was revealed as having the second-highest economic momentum in the country, as ranked by the National Bank of Canada. The region has been named one of the best in the country to invest in, especially with its lowest

Hamill Machine Co. owner and president Bob Benner (right) credits FedDev Ontario’s SONAMI funding and the NC partnership for his company’s ability to expand into new markets, and doubling his machine shop and workforce. Pictured with the Microgreens Harvester Dryer: Lucas Howe, student research assistant with NC’s Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (left) and James Dahl, NC Mechanical Engineering graduate who is now lead engineer at Hamill.

unemployment rate in 18 years. partners at McMaster University, Mohawk

team helped advance Studio 1’s revolutionary

manufacturing industry is undergoing a

College and Sheridan College, with each

intelligent bed sheet into the healthcare

transformation. The industry is the biggest

partner having its own capabilities in

market. Using fabric-sensing technology,

economic contributor and experts say it’s now

specializations like additive manufacturing,

Studio 1, with the help of NC, invented the

a sector that’s requiring much more advanced

flexible manufacturing, high productivity

bed sheet that also functions as a patient

and technical skills. Enter Niagara College,

manufacturing and industrial internet.

health monitor, without the use of any wired

And after some dire times, the region’s

equipping the workforce with specialized

Manufacturers are able to access leading-

knowledge and today’s needed skill sets.

edge equipment, tools, services and expertise

attachments to the body.

“SONAMI is an unprecedented

to help grow and remain competitive,

collaboration that has been successful

contributes to this winning formula, with

while providing opportunities for students

in driving research and innovation in the

an array of researcher expertise, supported

to prepare for the manufacturing jobs of

advanced manufacturing sector in the Golden

by state-of-the-art facilities, technology and

tomorrow. Since it was officially launched in

Horseshoe,” added Keir.

equipment. By supporting this knowledge

2016, thanks to a $7.3-million grant from

economy, this division works with industry

the Federal Economic Development Agency

ADVANCING AGRICULTURE

partners who wish to accelerate their

for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), the

Agriculture as a tech industry has put NC on

technology adoption, develop prototypes,

SONAMI alliance has been involved with

the map with its expertise and now, thanks to

evaluate new technologies, and develop or

more than 302 proof-of-concept prototypes

a $700,000 grant from the Ontario Centres

improve new products and processes.

and 71 new products for commercialization.

of Excellence – Colleges Applied Research

It has supported more than 77 SMEs with

and Development Fund, NC researchers are

also allow students real-world experience

their research and development needs, and

building upon vital projects and partnerships

in everything from agricultural robotics,

offered real-world skills and experience to

in the agri-food sector. All this to help farmers

to the Internet of Things, from additive

164 students, faculty and research leads.

of today and the future produce more food,

NC’s Research & Innovation division also

These specialized industry collaborations

manufacturing to recipe development.

MAKING WAVES

Success has been significant for Niagara Falls-based Hamill Machine Co., who, as

with fewer resources, and for less money.

The College’s immersion in precision

a result of its collaboration with research

agriculture – a smart farming method using

It has been a continual upsurge for the

students and staff at the Walker Advanced

innovative techniques to precisely measure,

Southern Ontario Network for Advanced

Manufacturing Innovation Centre, is now able

analyze and manage agricultural production

Manufacturing Innovation (SONAMI). So far,

to double its facility space and its workforce

and variability – was started a decade ago by

an estimated 186 jobs have been created in

to accommodate new business, explained

Mike Duncan, PhD, the Natural Sciences and

the Niagara region.

SONAMI project manager Krystyn Keir.

Engineering Research Council of Canada’s

The SONAMI is a NC-led consortium made

Keir also pointed to the success of Studio

industrial research chair for colleges in

up of NC’s Walker Advanced Manufacturing

1 Labs, a tech start-up. Researchers with the

Precision Agriculture and Environmental

Innovation Centre, in association with its

College’s Digital Media and Web Solutions

Technologies.

12 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2018

myCollege This funding allows Duncan and his team

availability and

to advance current projects in agriculture

presence into

technologies, in addition to seeking out other

more LCBO stores

potential partners in the agri-food sectors,

this summer.

such as crop and commodity organizations,

TOP 10 AGAIN

farmers, technology and food processing companies. The grant will also allow NC

For the third year

students to translate the skills they’ve learned in the classroom into real-world partnerships

in a row, NC has earned the honour of being

with industry.

in the top 10 colleges in the country for research funding, according to a national

SWEET SUCCESS

study and reported in Canada’s Top 50

It’s the first and only light beverage of its

Inc. And for the second year in a row, that

kind in the Canadian cider category and it’s

placement is No. 7. According to the report,

on the shelves of hundreds of LCBOs across

NC once again placed highly in the categories

the province. Reinhart’s Red Apple Light

of the number of partnerships, as well as the

Cider is the result of a close collaboration

number of projects completed. In both cases,

between the research team at NC’s Canadian

the College ranked third in Canada on each

Manufacturing Innovation Centre and recent

Food and Wine Institute Innovation Centre,

list, with 109 partnerships, and 118 projects

graduate of NC’s Electrical Engineering

and Reinhart Foods Ltd., well known for its

completed.

Technician program, who was part of a team

vinegars and baking ingredients.

While Reinhart had significant experience in

Research Colleges by Re$earch Infosource

NATIONAL RECOGNITION

Ryan Monkman, a graduate of the Winery and Viticulture Technician program, worked on a research team with the Canadian Food and Wine Institute Innovation Centre that helped develop Reinhart’s Red Apple Cider, which is now available at select LCBO stores.

that developed a prototype for an automated heart nut cracker. Nathan Knapp-Blezius, CFWI

fermentation and capital-intensive, liquid-

Three research students were chosen to share

Innovation Centre research associate, who was

based manufacturing, it didn’t have the

their projects with MPs from across Canada

featured in a series of videos produced by the

necessary experience or equipment to develop

when Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan)

CFI, showcased his research project developing

a world-class hard apple cider beverage,

and the Canada Foundation for Innovation

a pesto that integrates cricket protein.

said Innovation Centre project manager

(CFI) hosted Student Innovation Showcases

Kristine Canniff.

on Parliament Hill in Ottawa in February.

“The NC research team handled everything

The CICan Applied Research Forum

FOOD AND BEVERAGE RESEARCH BOOST

from product development, competitive

showcase included Alex Davis, a NC Computer

Thanks to a partnership funding program

and sensory analysis, and quality control to

Programmer Analyst graduate and research

that marries provincial and federal funding,

providing final recipe and process,” she said.

associate with R&I’s Digital Media and

research labs in the College’s Marotta Family

Web Solutions team, who helped create

Innovation Complex will be equipped to

natural, and made with a single ingredient:

the user interface for an innovative fabric-

handle even more research and innovation by

100 per cent Ontario apple cider. Reinhart

sensing bed sheet that functions as a patient

the CFWI Innovation Centre.

general manager Scott Singer said he

health monitor; and Brian Cunningham,

expects significant increases in grocery store

research associate with the Walker Advanced

The beverage is touted as pure and

Announced this spring, the funds from the Canada Foundation for Innovation are matched by the Ontario Research Fund, to the tune of $1.62 million. Contributions from industry and the College will help increase the total investment into the combined labs to more than $2.6 million.

While construction nears completion at the Marotta Family Innovation Complex, CFWI Innovation Centre staff members are completing the equipment purchasing afforded by this investment. Essentially, one of the four floors will be dedicated entirely to this research, which is done in

Two NC students were among 20 from across Canada invited to participate in a special student innovation showcase on Parliament Hill, Feb. 12, as part of the Colleges and Institutes Canada Applied Research Symposium in Ottawa. Pictured from left: Marc Nantel, associate vice-president Research & Innovation; Alex Davis, research associate with the Digital Media team, and new graduate of the Computer Programmer Analyst program; Vance Badawey, Niagara Centre MP; and Brian Cunningham, research associate with the Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre, and new graduate of the Electrical Engineering Technologist program.

collaboration with industry partners. The floor will include a Beverage Analysis Cluster Lab, Beverage Processing Lab, and three Industry Incubation labs.

2018 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 13

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AHEAD OF THE GAME

Leading-edge programs meet demands in growing industries Niagara College is fast becoming known as one of the most preemptive and entrepreneurial colleges in the country, developing new programs and enterprises to meet the evolving workforce needs of the most dynamic industries. By anticipating changes in the demand for skilled labour, and working with industry partners to develop solutions to those changes, the College is producing graduates that are able to step into their chosen career with the practical skills they need on day one. Below you’ll find three unique programs that are making waves here in Niagara, across Canada and around the world: Commercial Cannabis Production, Culinary Innovation and Food Technology, and Commercial Beekeeping. In addition, through advanced applied research projects in fields like precision agriculture, the College is also gaining a reputation for innovation in the agriculture industry, helping farmers produce more food, more efficiently (see page 12).

A BUDDING NEW FIELD

Commercial Cannabis Production Over the last year, cannabis has become a topic of household conversation across the country. NC joined that conversation in a ground-breaking way last September when it announced it would launch Canada’s first postsecondary credential in the production of commercial cannabis for fall 2018. Some see the Commercial Cannabis Production (CCP) graduate certificate program as a reaction to the government’s plans to legalize the plant, but the seeds for a program to train professionals in the cannabis industry were planted much earlier.

Canada’s legal medicinal cannabis production industry has been in operation for nearly two decades. Though the government’s

Lead hand Dustin Mater tends to cannabis plant at a Tweed Farms facility in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara College has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Tweed’s parent company, Canopy Growth, which will lead to internship and job opportunities for students and graduates of the College’s Commercial Cannabis Production program.

decision to legalize the recreational use of

and other skilled workers for the greenhouse

was headed in this direction, and that we’d

cannabis has sparked soaring stock prices and

industry in Niagara and across Canada,” said

need skilled plant scientists to lead the

near constant media attention, labour demand

Al Unwin, associate dean of Horticultural

cannabis industry into the future.”

for skilled workers to serve the medicinal

and Environmental Studies. “We have regular

cannabis market has been on the rise.

“Niagara College has a strong history of training growers, greenhouse technicians, 14 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2018

The effects of this radical transformation in

discussions with key players in that industry

the horticultural and greenhouse industry can

and, through those discussions, it became

be seen right here in Niagara. Canopy Growth,

clear to us several years ago that the industry

the world’s largest cannabis production

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A new partnership between Niagara College and Canopy Growth that will lead to new experience-based learning opportunities for college students and graduates was announced in April. Mark Zekulin, president of Canopy Growth Corporation; Niagara-on-the-Lake Lord Mayor Pat Darte; Alan Cooke, Canopy Growth regional manager; and NC president Dan Patterson attended the event held at Tweed Farms in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Five specially modified shipping containers that will serve as the teaching lab for the Commercial Cannabis Production program were delivered to the Niagara-onthe-Lake Campus on March 23.

company, recently announced a major

in the cannabis production industry job-ready

expansion of its Tweed Farm production

from day one. It’s a blueprint, designed from

stop there. This spring, NC signed several

facility in Niagara-on-the-Lake which, in

the ground up, for a program that’s never

memoranda of understanding with key players

several months, will bring the total growing

before been offered in Canada.

in the cannabis market, to ensure students

capacity of that operation to over one million square feet.

Once the need was recognized, staff

“From our conversations with LPs, we knew

Collaboration with industry doesn’t

and grads get hands-on experience working

we had to focus on three key areas. Our grads

with licensed producers and access to job

have to be fully versed in the latest processes

opportunities across the country.

and faculty in the department of Business,

and techniques that guide cultivation and

Hospitality and Environment continued to

practices of cannabis production, but they

was Canopy Growth. The partnership will

consult with existing Licenced Producers

also need key business and greenhouse

provide internship and co-op opportunities for

(LPs) of cannabis across the country –19 of

management skills,” said Unwin. “Finally,

students at Tweed Farms, and will open up

them – to build a curriculum and strategy

it’s crucial our students are knowledgeable

job prospects there, and at Canopy’s 13 other

for the program that would meet the

and able to navigate the strict regulatory

facilities across the country.

specialized needs of an emerging and rapidly

framework that governs the industry

evolving market.

in Canada.”

Recognizing the demand for skilled workers

The country’s first cannabis production

One of the first to partner with the College

“This plant and this process is different from any other sector,” said Mark Zekulin, president of Canopy Growth Corporation. “To

early in the game, and adapting programs to

program also needed Canada’s first teaching

have a program that’s dedicated to training

meet that demand, is a product of the College’s

lab. Students will get hands-on experience

those people, which we’ve helped design,

approach to engaging employers in constant

in the cultivation and production of cannabis

and then to have them learning hands-on,

dialogue and collaboration, ensuring college

in a brand new facility recently delivered

right here, ensures we have the best people

graduates meet the evolving needs of industry.

to the Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus. The

in this facility, and in our facilities across the

900-square-foot lab is constructed from a

country and around the world.”

“It’s invigorating to work for an organization that is preemptive in nature,

series of five specially modified shipping

that is constantly looking for opportunities

containers, outfitted with cutting-edge

stream of trained, qualified professionals to

to respond to changes in industry and to

lighting, irrigation and security equipment.

enter the industry,” said Tweed Farms post-

meet the workforce demands of tomorrow’s employers,” said Unwin.

The final product of that collaborative

“The goal was really to create an

“It’s going to provide us with an excellent

harvest manager Daniel Beltrame. “I think

environment which, on a small scale,

it will only serve to improve our process and

closely imitated that of a real controlled

contribute to a better overall product.”

process is a program that will produce

growing environment production facility,”

graduates who are ready to step into a career

explained Unwin.

2018 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 15

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Lab assistant and CIFT graduate (2016) Victoria Brosseau works with food scientist Rebecca Griffin, who is also a graduate of the CIFT program (2014), at the CFWI Innovation Centre.

THE FUTURE OF FOOD

Culinary Innovation and Food Technology

They spend plenty of time in the kitchen

Access Centre team, and developed into an

amassing much-needed culinary skills,

instruction manual for grocery bakers to make

which are matched by hands-on experience

40 innovative new desserts.

in science laboratories, applied research

Applied research projects that allow

projects and industry collaboration. Graduates

students to work directly with industry leaders

emerge from the program ready to take on

often open doors to job opportunities for

careers in food product development, food

graduates.

safety, and food manufacturing.

“We prepare [students] with a creative

Beatrix Csemer, who worked as a food and beverages research associate with the

mindset, a strong technical background,

CFWI Innovation Centre, graduated from the

NC is well known for its innovation in the

and skills in entrepreneurship and business

program in 2015, and now puts the applied

culinary, food and wine industries. Since

to help them enter a wide variety of career

education she received through the program

2011, the Culinary Innovation and Food

paths,” said program coordinator Amy Proulx,

to work every day as food technologist with

Technology program has been producing the

PhD. “We’ve had graduates become HACCP

E.D. Smith Foods.

next generation of food scientists in Canada.

(Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points)

Food manufacturing is a large and crucial

Csemer said the unique education and

coordinators and QA technicians. Others

work experience gained through the program

component to Canada’s overall manufacturing

have gone on to be food product developers,

and the support she received from faculty was

sector, employing around 100,000 workers in

research chefs, or food media stylists.

key to helping her kickstart her career.

Ontario alone. It’s also a sector that’s in need of highly skilled workers; it’s estimated that for every graduate of agri-food centred college

“A few of our students have gone on and started their own food businesses.”

Beyond supplying this diverse labour

“I loved that they don’t just teach you in the classroom; it’s real hands-on experience,” said Csemer.

and university programs in Ontario, such as

market with skilled, in-demand professionals,

NC’s Culinary Innovation and Food Technology

the program also supports the growth of the

comprise a significant force in the industry,

program, four job openings await.

industry by engaging in applied research

also benefit from the program. Students

projects through the Canadian Food and

provided ongoing support to Niagara-based

ideas, on continuous improvements, and on

Wine Institute Innovation Centre, and its

Provisions Food Company, from creating

organizations that are willing to take a risk to

Technology Access Centre.

product label guidelines to finding solutions

It’s an industry that thrives on new

find the future of new markets. Here too, NC’s

When representatives from multinational

Local businesses and start-ups, which

to technical problems through the Technology

preemptive approach is helping to define the

food products company Rich Products

Access Centre as the company expanded. The

future of this job market.

approached the College asking for help

company consistently hires students from

developing a cake product that would better

NC’s Culinary Innovation program.

Students in the three-year advanced diploma program graduate with a unique

reach a younger demographic than their

blend of diverse skills that makes them

traditional customer base, students developed

indispensable in their field, where food

hundreds of ideas, which were then

scientists often must wear many hats at once.

prioritized with the help of the Technology

16 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2018

“Small businesses are looking for multifaceted professionals,” said Proulx.

“They trust the skill set of our graduates.”

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THE BUZZ AROUND TOWN

Commercial Beekeeping Product development and food manufacturing isn’t the only way NC supports the agri-food industry. In 2017, the College introduced Eastern Canada’s first Commercial Beekeeping program with the goal of producing highly skilled workers entering the beekeeping industry.

Students in the graduate certificate program gain textbook knowledge in the concepts needed to succeed in the industry, like entomology, honey bee health and pollinator ecology. The threeterm program also gives students a close-up experience of the life of hive management and the practical principles of establishing a successful beekeeping operation.

The hallmark of the program is an on-campus apiary at the NOTL Campus, where hives are managed. Students learn the fundamentals of honey harvesting, queen rearing and integrated pest management. Last summer, the program also produced its first batch of honey harvested by students. NC honey is sold in Benchmarket, the Greenhouse retail space, and is used by students in the College’s culinary programs.

Honey isn’t the only marketable product for beekeepers. Ontario’s beekeeping industry is incredibly varied, ranging from small-scale beekeepers to large-scale operations, producing everything from wax candles to bees for other beekeepers.

The need for professional beekeepers is significant. A Statistics Canada agricultural census during the College’s program development illustrated a substantial demand, estimating a need for more than 3,600 commercial beekeepers by 2026. The need is not just economic, but ecological, and has a profound impact on the health of our food system. Honey bees are tied Mylee Nordin, program coordinator for the Commercial Beekeeping program, stands with student John Mattausch at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus.

to many agricultural products through their role as pollinators. Agricultural companies rely on pollinators like bees as an essential part of crop production.

The world has seen a decline of honey bees and wild pollinators in recent years. With high losses and new stressors, beekeepers have also taken on the role of advocates for bees and pollinators. “Pollinators are a key part of a healthy and vibrant food system,” said Mylee Nordin, Commercial Beekeeping program coordinator. “Beekeepers of today, and tomorrow, will need to be highly skilled, with a strong foundation of knowledge to enter the market and respond to industry challenges.”

2018 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 17

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Campus Redevelopment $65-MILLION PROJECT NEARS COMPLETION ARTISAN DISTILLERY, AGRI-FOOD RESEARCH COMPLEX, GREEN AUTO LAB AMONG NEW SPACES TO WELCOME STUDENTS THIS FALL

A quick look around Niagara College campuses will reveal that the College is in the midst of a significant transformation.

Since 2015, the College has been making progress on a $65-million redevelopment at the Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake campuses that will provide new and expanded facilities, as well as equipment to support growth, enhance the student experience, and boost the College’s research and innovation capabilities.

GREEN AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY LAB In April 2018, the College officially opened its Green Automotive Technology Lab. In addition to classroom space, the 3,600-squarefoot addition to the Rankin Technology Centre at the Welland Campus boasts electric vehicle charging stations, and hybrid and electric motor diagnostic and simulation tools. It is home to several donated hybrid and fully electric vehicles that allow students unfettered access to the technology that will dominate the roads of the future.

The lab also features tools and equipment to help students explore the future of ethanol, propane, diesel and other alternative fuel technologies, as well as autonomous, self-parking and collisionavoidance technologies.

“This is technology and equipment that’s fast becoming the norm in the automotive industry,” said second-year Motive Power Technician student Christenah D’Archi, one of the students already benefiting from the new lab.

The lab will also be a hub for research activities into the future of automotive technology, working in concert with NC’s Research & Innovation division.

In 2016, St. Catharines MPP Jim Bradley announced $1.4 million of provincial funding for construction of the lab through Ontario’s Apprenticeship Enhancement Fund program.

“The improved facilities and training programs give apprentices the hands-on experience they need to thrive in the skilled trades, and contribute to our economy,” said MPP Bradley.

18 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2018

Students in NC’s Automotive Service Technician Apprenticeship, Motive Power Technician and Motive Power Techniques programs learn on a variety of state-of-the-art charging stations, diagnostic and simulation tools, such as this cutaway drivetrain simulator that gives them an inside look at how a complex hybrid electric vehicle drivetrain operates.

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MAROTTA FAMILY INNOVATION COMPLEX A 49,000-square-foot addition to the Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus is underway, set to be a hub for research and development opportunities for Niagara’s booming agri-food industry when completed in fall 2018.

The building has been named the Marotta Family Innovation Complex, thanks to a generous gift from the family of Benny and Louise Marotta. The facility will feature learning spaces and laboratories, incubation space for business, specialized training facilities for student engagement and entrepreneurship, and will house a student fitness centre and gymnasium.

The Marotta Family Innovation Complex, located at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus, is poised to become a hub for Niagara’s agri-food industry. After months of construction, the new 49,000-square-foot facility will house classrooms, research space and a food-processing lab, as well as a 6,000-square-foot gym. It is expected to be completed during the summer of 2018.

ARTISAN DISTILLERY Construction began during the fall of 2017 on a 2,500-square-foot facility adjacent to the Wine Visitor + Education Centre at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus that will house the first batch of students in fall 2018’s Artisan Distilling graduate certificate program.

The new building will give students access to the latest technologies available for small batch fermentation and distillation processes.

Both the program and the facility are the first of their kind in Canada.

The College’s Teaching Distillery, located next to the Wine, Visitor + Education Centre, will be home to the College’s new Artisan Distilling program.

A major expansion is underway at the Welland Campus with a 37,000-square-foot addition to the north end of the Simcoe Building.

WELLAND CAMPUS STUDENT COMMONS AND CAFETERIA Students attending the Welland Campus in fall 2018 will be treated to a new 37,000-square-foot expansion to the north end of the Simcoe

Students began their studies in the new space this past January.

In early 2018, there were several new openings at the

Building. The addition includes a student activity centre, 500-seat

Welland Campus including a new Student Services area, housing

cafeteria with food outlets, a kitchen and a servery. The prayer room

administration, health and wellness, the Centre of Student

has also been expanded.

Engagement and Leadership, and Co-op and Student Services.

Earlier this year, two-storey renovations to the north end of the

In mid-2017, a 10,300-square-foot addition to the north side of the

Simcoe Building also provided a new home for the College’s Justice

Athletic Centre brought a new academic lab, which can function as a

Studies programs, with demonstration labs and four classrooms.

second gym, as well as new change rooms.

2018 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 19

Bringing NC to the world

myCollege John McTavish believes that travel is the best

he shares his personal experiences, stories,

education.

photos and videos while teaching his Hispanic

This professor in the School of Academic and Liberal Studies is among several Niagara

He also advises his students and co-

College employees who have been making

workers to travel and experience what he

their marks on the College’s campuses

refers to as “intangible heritage.”

and around the world. With 10 years of

“Tangible heritage is learned at a museum.

experience teaching in Panama, McTavish’s

Intangible heritage occurs when you

Latin American cultural competencies

experience a cultural festival abroad, smelling

and curriculum expertise were key factors

the food being cooked. It’s hearing its local

leading to his involvement in NC’s Peruvian

music and feeling the warm breeze that

partnership.

can only be experienced,” he said. “That is education.”

NC continues to pave the way towards becoming Canada’s global college through its strong reputation worldwide as a leader in applied education.

“At Niagara

School of Academic and Liberal Studies professor John McTavish hosts a hands-on workshop focused on participatory teaching-learning strategies with Diana Evans, subject matter expert for Centro de Formacion Agricola Moqueguan in Peru.

“Travelling is the best education, teaching

College, we are proud to offer a variety of global engagement

opportunities,” said vice-president of

things that cannot be learned in a book,” said

International, Sean Kennedy. “Many of our

McTavish. “Visiting abroad expands your view

global development projects are focused

of the world as a global marketplace.

on expanding and improving access to,

“We may live in different parts of the

and quality of, technical and vocational

world, have different coloured skin or speak

education, and training and strengthening

different languages, but we are all connected

linkages between industry to promote local

as one human race.”

economic development.”

McTavish traveled to Peru in April 2016.

The NC community pushes its own

Through hands-on workshops, he expanded

boundaries of educational possibilities as it

and consolidated participatory teaching-

assists with furthering human development

learning strategies and methods at the Centro

worldwide. These partnerships are mutually

de Formacion Agricola Moquegua (CFAM)

beneficial and enhance the College’s

and the Luis E. Valcárcel Institute of Higher

Canadian programs.

Technical Education While the Valcárcel Institute desired to

A renowned leader in sector-based skills training programs, NC collaborated with

increase its number of skilled graduates to

the Marine Institute (MI) and Excelsior

meet the country’s rapidly modernizing food

Community College (ECC) to develop

industry, CFAM wanted to do the same in

curriculum in Jamaica for a logistics

viticulture and oenology. NC collaborated

management degree that meets the demands

with other international partners to enhance

of Jamaica’s emerging logistics sector.

their three-year industry programs and target vulnerable youth employment.

“The best thing you can do to help

“This three-year project remains one of my most rewarding experiences at NC,” said Ron Shepherd, School of Business

someone is to educate and assist in

and Management Studies professor and key

developing job skills to create employment

contributor to this project. Shepherd traveled

opportunities because then you are helping

to Jamaica from February 26 to March

entire families by giving them a better

5, 2017, and was involved in developing

future,” said McTavish.

programs focused on quality and demand-

McTavish believes that his work abroad also benefits his students at home. For example, 20 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2018

Studies classes at NC.

driven education.

myCollege Proulx said this opportunity allowed her to reflect on her own teaching practices, leading to continuous improvement of her courses

steps for our future strategic development,” said Pentesco.

“Representing NC is a huge privilege,

at NC. She also emphasized the cultural

providing me with personal challenge and

competency gained by contributing to this

growth that enables me to enhance my

global project.

work here.

“In Vietnam, I stay in the local guest

“I am grateful for this opportunity and look

house, getting to know people in town,” said

forward to continuing to contribute to the

Proulx. “I have learned some Vietnamese

success of Vietnam’s college system and NC’s

by interacting with the locals, as I learn the

work there.”

culture and explore their foods.

Pentesco was invited back to Vietnam in May this year to speak to 30 college principals and share

Rob Shepherd, professor in the School of Business and Management Studies; Holly Catalfamo, professor and Human Resources program coordinator; and Jon Ogryzlo, former dean of International Partnerships at NC; meet with Philmore Mcarthy, principal of Excelsior Community College in Jamaica.

her expertise.

Global projects such as these are funded through international

One of the highlights for Shepherd was creating a competency-based curriculum

development agencies

development and mapping process with

and enable NC to

his co-worker, Holly Catalfamo, PhD. It was employed throughout the partnership in the development of curriculum in five different

extend its applied

Professor and program coordinator for Culinary Innovation and Food Technology, Amy Proulx (front row, fourth from right), stands with teachers and technicians of Vinh Long Community College in Vietnam where they collaboratively developed curriculum for a food technology program.

learning beyond the classroom setting as it becomes a global

program areas. This work has impacted the College’s Supply Chain Management and Operations Management post-graduate program as Shepherd was able to utilize

“It’s fun to surprise Vietnamese students at NC with my broken Vietnamese.”

VSEP also coordinated the Training Centres

education leader. Through faculty and staff’s work abroad, NC continues to work towards contributing to the global good while, at

this process in the program’s curriculum

for Advanced Management (TCAM) project:

the same time, enhancing the abilities of

development.

established as the two go-to institutions

its faculty and staff to support students

for professional development for Vietnam’s

to become world-ready and culturally and

work-ready graduates, specializing in

postsecondary educators. NC collaborated

globally engaged.

supply chain, humanitarian and emergency

with TCAM to develop curriculum customized

management, and coastal and tourism

to Vietnam’s higher education sector and to

logistics.

provide advanced management training to

The Jamaican project is already producing

NC continues to develop its strong ties with Vietnam through participation in the

participants from more than 150 colleges.

In support of the TCAM’s course offerings,

Vietnamese government’s Vietnam Skills for

NC’s director of Marketing and Recruitment,

Employment Project (VSEP). As part of VSEP,

Dorita Pentesco, worked collaboratively with

the College provides technical assistance

NC faculty and staff as well as members from

to Vinh Long Community College (VLCC),

international development firm Agriteam

developing curriculum for a food technology

Canada to develop and deliver a two-day

program in post-harvest production.

seminar. The seminar focused on building

Amy Proulx, PhD, professor and

understanding and capacity on College

coordinator for the Culinary Innovation

brand management, as well as marketing

and Food Technology program, traveled to

and recruitment strategy. This took her to

Vietnam in June 2017, running a series

Vietnam in November 2017 where each topic

of workshops for NC’s VLCC partners. She

was discussed on a conceptual level and

worked collaboratively with teachers and

then expanded upon by using NC-specific

technicians developing and training in several

examples and experiences.

areas including teaching and evaluating

“Gathering information and lessons learned

performance-based learning outcomes,

to prepare for delivery in Vietnam is helpful to

evaluating essential employability skills, as

our work at NC as it causes me to reflect on

well as the design of laboratory manuals.

what we’ve done in the past and develop next

Several NC staff members travelled to Vietnam to assist with the country’s education and vocational training model. Abbas Sumar, NC associate director of Global Strategy (first row third from left) stands with Michael Emblem, Canadian field project director of Agriteam Canada; Dorita Pentesco, NC director of Marketing and Recruitment; and Harriet Roos, first secretary of Development at Global Affairs Canada.

2018 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 21

myStory

Field of Dreams MEET TWO DOCTORS WHO ARE BACK IN THE CLASSROOM TO PURSUE THEIR PASSIONS Just a few years ago, Dr. Wade Davis had a successful dental practice

Davis had a passion for food and beverages – although, he admits,

in Fairfield, Ohio, a suburb outside of Cincinnati. When, after 48 years

he has always preferred wine or martinis to beer, until he became

in dentistry, he decided to sell his office, a special day, ‘Wade Davis

acquainted with the College’s multi-award winning Butler’s Bitter and

Day,’ was declared in his honour by city officials.

the region’s craft beer scene. After some industry research, he applied

But Dr. Davis had no intention of slipping into a relaxing, leisurely retirement. He wanted to remain active and productive. He hopped on his motorcycle, rode up through Detroit-Windsor border, then over to the Niagara region where he visited Niagara College and its on-campus Teaching Brewery. He was so impressed by the breadth of programs

to NC’s Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management program.

In September, he officially became a student again at the age of 73.

“A few relatives thought I was crazy,” said Davis. “All of my friends loved it. They said they always wanted to do something like this.”

Since then, Davis has been seeping up the experience of college

offered, the infrastructure, and the affability of the staff and faculty he

life. He finds it energizing to be surrounded by a diverse student body,

met, that he decided he wanted to be a part of it.

who are as eager to learn as he is. He enjoys attending lectures and

THE CHANGING FACE OF COLLEGE STUDENTS According to the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development’s 2017 Student Satisfaction Survey, 16.5% of college students reported that they had already earned a university degree prior to their current program, which is an increase of almost 40% from five years ago.

In total, about 46% of students reported having some previous postsecondary experience, of which 29% have a credential.

According to the same survey, 40% of students are under the age of 21, 39% are between the ages of 21-25, 11% are 26-30, 4% are 31-35, and 6% are over the age of 35.

The average age of Second Career (the Ontario government’s program for adult retraining) students at colleges, as well as other training providers, is 41 years.

NC’S OVER-30 ENROLMENT FOR 2017 Age 30-39: 679 students Age 40-49: 231 students Age 50-59: 55 students Age 60-69: 7 students

After almost 50 years in dentistry, Dr. Wade Davis now spends his days as a student in NC’s Brewmaster program, enjoying his time learning at the NC Teaching Brewery.

22 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2018

myStory learning from experts like Brewmaster professor Jon Downing, who has opened more than 100 breweries worldwide before being instrumental in opening the Teaching Brewery at NC – the first of its kind in Canada.

“I just happened to come to the best brewing program in the world here,” said Davis.

After five decades in the workforce, he relishes being a student again, and tapping into new skills and subject areas. One of the highlights of his first year was creating a Canadian-American collaborative beer, which led him to travel to Clarence, New York.

While his classmates are closer to his grandsons’ ages than his own, Davis had no problem fitting in. Even the youngest student in the program at the age of 19 is now a friend. Outside the classroom, Davis attends social events such as weekly trivia nights with his classmates.

“I’m not Dr. Davis here. I’m just Wade,” he said.

Being back in the classroom after 50 years however, has its challenges. Davis feels he requires more time to study than his younger classmates. Even with an undergraduate degree in Chemistry, learning the science behind beer-making has proved much more challenging than he had anticipated. He is impressed by his professors as well as his classmates; many of them arrived at NC as professionals and with degrees like microbiology and chemical engineering.

“We have a great bunch of highly educated people in my class. I can’t believe how smart these young people are,” he said “Every one of them would have aced dental school.”

Returning to the classroom older and wiser has its advantages. He never stresses over his marks or pressure about his exams. At this stage in life, he is able to focus is on the enjoyment of learning, rather than mapping out career plans like many of his younger classmates.

“People always ask me why I’m doing this,” said Davis, who has one simple answer. “It’s my next great adventure.”

FROM PROF TO STUDENT When life gives you lemons, some make lemonade. Steve Kornic

Steve Kornic, PhD, has traded his career in academia to pursue his dreams as a winemaker. He enrolled in the Winery and Viticulture Technician program last fall. heart of Niagara’s wine region and home to Canada’s first and only commercial teaching winery. He soon realized he wasn’t the only older student on campus or even in his program.

“Some people are coming back for another career and there are some that are just here because the program sounds cool,” he said.

“We’re from all walks of life.”

Kornic has been enjoying his return to student life. He looks back

decided it was the perfect time to make wine.

fondly on participating in a grape stomp during the first week of class

After more than a decade working in academia, Kornic began life

and in the Icewine harvest during the winter.

as a college student in September to pursue his interest in the wine industry. It’s not where this PhD imagined himself being at the age of 46, but he wouldn’t have it any other way.

“There’s nothing like 3 a.m. in the vineyard; it’s a whole different world,” he said.

He has been impressed by the quality of teaching in the program

After graduating with a PhD in chemistry in 2005, he was a professor

with the expertise of professors such as Ron Giesbrecht, Tom Schultz,

at Wilfred Laurier University for two years, before becoming a research

and Gavin Robertson. He is surprised by how challenging the program

scientist at McMaster University where he trained students to use

is, even with a PhD.

instrumentation and analyze materials for the pharmaceutical industry.

“This college program is busier than any of my other degrees. It’s

After 11 years at McMaster, Kornic lost his job due to funding cuts.

much more intense than I expected,” he said. “As a professor, I was

“I just felt relief,” he said. “I felt happy.”

known for being tough on my students. Now it’s payback time.”

For Kornic, it wasn’t a setback; it was the perfect opportunity to

Kornic enjoys expanding his knowledge base with new subjects he

fast-track his dream. The Oshawa native, who currently resides in

had no previous background in, such as marketing. He has taken on a

Hamilton, may have made academia his career, but he had long held

part-time job in the Wine + Visitor Education Centre and will begin his

the dream of pursuing winemaking after retirement. Over the past

practicum at Malivoire Wine Company this fall.

20 years, he has been a regular visitor to Niagara’s wineries, finding

As much as he looks forward to his future career in this exciting

enjoyment in talking to staff and winemakers, always in search of a

industry, Kornic savours his return to student life and opportunity to

unique find.

learn as much as he can.

After deciding to go back to school, he automatically turned to NC’s Winery and Viticulture Technician program, positioned ideally in the

“I have a philosophy that if you ever stop learning, you’re doing something wrong.”

2018 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 23

myStory

Alumni profile

Mark Montefiore

How this award-winning producer got his start at NC FINDING DIAMONDS IN THE ROUGH IS MARK MONTEFIORE’S SPECIALTY.

film credits include Cas and Dylan – starring

and interested in so many different things,

Richard Dreyfuss and Tatiana Maslany, and

like the business side,” said Henderson. “He

directed by Jason Priestley, which won a

would arrive for a four-hour class but stay

Out of a world of possibilities, something will

Toronto International Film Festival Film

for eight hours, and that’s what it takes to

pop, capture his attention – like a sentence

Circuit People’s Choice Award – and award-

succeed in this industry.”

in a newspaper article, or Youtube series.

winning flicks like Eating Buccaneers and

Under his direction, it becomes transformed

The Armoire.

into a new entity – like a Canadian cult

Montefiore was named the Hollywood

Montefiore began his college days thinking he might opt for a career in front of the camera, such as acting or becoming a TV

comedy series – which, in turn, wins

Reporter’s Next Generation Under 35 in

personality. Like many students, he didn’t

numerous awards and captures the attention

2015 and Playback’s Top 10 to Watch

quite know what a producer was or did until

of audiences worldwide, and even branches

in 2012.

it was time for students to select roles for a

out with its own spin-off products like a whiskey, a beer, a live tour.

Since he graduated from the College’s Broadcasting - Radio, TV and Film program in 2003, this St. Catharines native who has

For Montefiore, working in the film and TV

class project. Montefiore recalled one fateful

industry has been his dream as long as he

day when his classmates were volunteering

can remember. He never considered another

eagerly for the more popular roles like

career. There was no back-up plan.

directing, camera work, sound, hair and

“When I was a kid, I knew I wanted

makeup, but when it came to producing –

honed a sharp business sense to match his

to be in entertainment, one way or

more elusive, harder to define – there was

creativity, has spent the last 15 years making

another,” he said.

radio silence. With a date lined up for that

his mark on the Canadian film and television

He recalled that, growing up, he was drawn

evening and time ticking by, Montefiore was

industry. One of his biggest claims to fame

to the cameras and equipment around the

has been becoming executive producer of the

house, including a dark room and 8-mm

uber-popular Crave TV/ Comedy Network’s

projector screen, thanks to his father, who

got to get out of here … I’ll do it,’” he

multiple-award-winning series Letterkenny,

was an entrepreneur and camera buff. With

recalled. “I did it and I discovered that I

whose ‘hicks, hockey players and skids’ have

this playground at his fingertips, Montefiore

loved it.”

‘pitter pattered’ their way into becoming a

developed an interest in creating short skits

cultural phenomenon, and packed venues of

and videos as young as four years old.

fans across the country. And, yes, the show

Fresh from high school graduation,

determined to move the process along.

“I looked at my watch and I’m like, ‘I’ve

Montefiore recalled how the experience he gained at the College prepared him well to meet the demands of the industry.

even has a beer, a soon-to-be whiskey, and a

Montefiore arrived at NC with his eyes fixed

live tour.

on the Broadcasting program and his heart

schools don’t have that and I certainly used

set on turning his passion into a career.

that to my advantage,” he said.

As president of New Metric Media,

“We had our hands in everything … other

Montefiore also produces shows such as

Broadcasting professor Alysha Henderson,

What Would Sal Do on the Superchannel

who brought Montefiore back to the College

internship in radio at 97.7 HTZ FM’s

and drama Bad Blood with all-star cast Kim

as a speaker for BRTF and acting classes in

promotions department. He recalled driving

Coates (Sons of Anarchy), Anthony Lapaglia

March 2018, recalled how he stood out as an

the station’s van around Southern Ontario,

(Without a Trace), Paul Sorvino (Goodfellas),

eager and determined student.

sometimes talking into the microphone and

Enrico Colantoni (Flashpoint) and more. His 24 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2018

“He was always very engaged, very creative

As a student, he worked his first

introducing bands.

myStory

“THERE WERE ALMOST 3,000 PEOPLE THERE AND HEARING THE FANS SCREAMING FOR LETTERKENNY AS THEY WALKED OUT ON STAGE WAS AWESOME.”

Each new success has helped lead him to new opportunities. Montefiore likens it to

the people I’m dealing with on a show-to-

gaining access into a hotel: while the doors in

show basis, to the content, to the characters,

the hallways are now in sight, it doesn’t mean

to the type, to the budget, to the different

they are suddenly open.

financing partners.”

“You still have to go bang down the “The experience that I got from a marketing promotions standpoint was

“Everything’s constantly changing, from

doors,” he said.

Montefiore was just breaking into the

Of course, when you’re on the set of a comedy series like Letterkenny, immersed in the antics of tongue-twisting creator/

tremendous, even though I don’t work in

television industry and had completed his

lead actor Jared Keeso, and his small town

radio at all,” he said.

feature film Cas and Dylan, when one of

sidekicks Nathan Dales, and K. Trevor

After completing the program, Montefiore

his college friends from NC, writer Dane

Wilson, there’s also plenty of fun. There is no

moved to Toronto ready to kickstart his career.

Clark, sent him a link to YouTube series,

shortage of unusable shaky footage due to a

He began by volunteering with Craft Services

Letterkenny Problems and he became

laughing camera operator.

to get his foot in the door in the industry. On

interested in producing it.

the job front, it meant doing anything needed

“He sent me the link and said, ‘you’ve got

from assisting, to finding an actor’s lost cat,

to check out this series, you’ll love it. See

to doing someone’s laundry. On the personal

what you can do with it.’”

end, it meant the necessity of cramming into

These days, Montefiore divides his time

“It’s so much fun. It really is like a family,” he said. “Everybody has a great time.”

Even now, with a Movado watch on his wrist – a purchase he indulged in after one of his first major successes – numerous awards

a small one-bedroom apartment with two

between Toronto and his house on a lake in

under his belt, living a lifestyle complete

roommates to be able to afford city life on a

Sudbury, where Letterkenny is shot. His work

with industry parties, film festivals, and

volunteer’s salary. Montefiore took it in stride.

has become his lifestyle and he is constantly

frequent travel, it’s the residual benefits that

Doing whatever was needed to make it work

in motion, “everywhere and nowhere at the

Montefiore finds most rewarding. For him, the

was just part of the process of entering the

same time.”

best part of success is the doors that open for

industry.

“You go into it with the idea that you don’t

Perpetually juggling the multiple tasks involved with being a producer and at the

him, and opportunities to meet and work with other creative talent.

know where something’s going to lead and

helm of his own company, he splits his time

take anything you possibly can,” he said. “It’s

between the office, the sets and the edit

feel like work. When you love what you do,

like filling your gas tank constantly $5 at a

suites. He is just as at home with logistics

you never work a day in your life,” he said.

time; enough to get to the next stop, then

and the business side as with the creative,

just before you’re out of gas, there’s another

dealing with casting directors, bankers,

his share however, the moments he takes the

gas station.”

financiers, writers, actors, publicists and

most pride in haven’t been centre stage. He

He doesn’t mince words when he recalls

broadcasters alike. The variety and quick

reflects on how he felt standing at the back of

the difficulty of the early days when rejection

pace suits the “easily bored” Montefiore

a community centre as Letterkenny began its

was ubiquitous.

perfectly.

first arena live show.

“It felt like someone stabbed me in the

“I like that I get to flex all sorts of different

“What I love most about it is that it doesn’t

As for the limelight, Montefiore has had

“There were almost 3,000 people

heart and twisted in 10 times,” he said about

muscles and brain activities ... and I’m

there and hearing the fans screaming for

the first time he got turned down for a short

not confined to an assembly line type of

Letterkenny as they walked out on stage was

film application.

job where it’s the same thing day in, day

awesome,” he said.

There were days when he felt discouraged

out,” he said.

“I was pretty proud.”

and wondered how much longer he could continue volunteering. There were even times when he doubted himself.

“Especially when you see your friends from school and they’ve got ‘real jobs’ or are getting married, or having kids, it’s hard,” he said. “But you have to have a reasonable hope that there’s something on the other side of this.”

In a business where the proverbial carrot is always dangling within reach, some reach it quickly, some never reach it, and for others, it’s always just ahead. The latter, for Montefiore, is the best place to be.

“It keeps you hungry; it keeps you on your toes; and it keeps you moving forward.”

Mark Montefiore visited Niagara College’s Welland Campus on March 16 where he addressed students from the BRTF and Acting programs, sharing the secrets to his success. “Sell yourself, because it’s really about you; it’s not about your project,” he said. “Be remarkable or no one will remember you or your project.”

2018 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 25

myStory

Alumni profile

Rose DiMarco

Rising through the ranks

WHEN YOU SPEND MOST OF YOUR LIFE IN NIAGARA, finding yourself amid

tight-knit family where she recalled being

coach officer and member of the Greater

teased by her sisters as “the boy my dad

Toronto Area Emergency Response Team

18 whizzing lanes of traffic on Highway 401

never had.”

responsible for search and rescue, evidence

can seem overwhelming.

That’s how Rose DiMarco felt on her first day as a uniform patrol officer for the Ontario Provincial Police, and she was responsible for monitoring all of them – core, collectors and transfer lanes alike – responding to calls for service.

“It was so scary and exciting at the same time,” she said. “I kept thinking how am I supposed to monitor all of this traffic … most of my experience was within the Niagara Peninsula driving along Hwy. 406.”

Since that day 27 years ago, DiMarco has put the wheels in motion for life in the fast lane of policing and kicked it into high gear. In a field traditionally dominated by men, she’s steered into new directions, rising through the ranks to her current position as chief superintendent for the OPP Central Region.

While policing was a path she never imagined taking while growing up, even as a Law and Security Administration student at Niagara College during the early 1980s, her career journey has evolved into the “dream of a lifetime.”

DiMarco grew up in Welland as the youngest of seven girls – no brothers – in a 26 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2018

She developed a passion for athletics

searches, missing or wanted persons, and

during grade school and high school, which

more. She recalls her work with the ERT as

continued during her college days where she

one of the highlights of her career.

left her legacy on NC’s basketball court. She

“It was such a rewarding feeling

was inducted into the Knights Hall of Fame,

to find that missing person or missing

and received several awards including Rookie

piece of evidence with successful

Athlete of the Year, Female Athlete of the

outcomes,” she said.

Year, and Athlete of Distinction awards, as

DiMarco moved to the Investigations and

well as a placement on the Ontario Colleges

Organized Crime Section of the OPP in 1996

All Star team.

where she worked as a detective constable

While the Law and Security program

based at Casino Niagara. Trained on ‘Cheat at

focuses on three pillars – policing, security

Play’ Criminal Code offenses, she was taught

and customs – DiMarco was focused on

by gaming experts on what to look for in all

the latter with the intention to work as a

games to identify offenders.

border officer. It wasn’t until more than five

In 1997, DiMarco was promoted

years after graduation that she made the

to detective sergeant in the Corporate

life-changing decision to pursue a career in

Investigations of the Alcohol and Gaming

policing. Drawn to its many different facets,

Commission where she performed background

challenges, and opportunities, she was

checks to ensure the provincial government

excited by the fact that no two days would

was not engaged with any companies or

be alike, and the excitement of not knowing

individuals associated with organized crime.

what type of calls were ahead.

It proved to not disappoint. She has held

She turned her attention to ‘policing the police’ in 2007 when she was promoted

several different positions within the OPP

to sergeant major, Professional Standards

during the past 27 years. She began her

Bureau. There, she oversaw police complaints

career in the Port Credit detachment in 1991

for eight detachments of the Highway

as a uniform patrol officer, where she became

Safety Division, in a unit that responds

a member of the RIDE team. She also worked

to complaints about police conduct and

as a technical traffic collision investigator,

investigations.

myStory

“I THINK, AS A FEMALE, I LIKELY PLACED SOME STRESS ON MYSELF, NOT WANTING COLLEAGUES TO THINK THAT I WAS SUCCESSFUL OBTAINING POSITIONS OR INCREASING IN RANK SIMPLY BECAUSE OF MY GENDER.”

time to listen, we can all learn from one another and become better people and leaders,” she said.

DiMarco has received accolades for her work including the Queen’s Jubilee Medal

where I started and the challenges they

and Ontario Public Service Ovation Award for

commissioned officer rank and made history

In 2009, DiMarco moved up to

face on the road; it grounds me to better

leadership. She has also received the Police

when she was assigned as the inspector

understand today versus when I was on the

Exemplary Medal with 20 Year Bar and 25

detachment commander for the Caledon

road 20 years ago.”

Year recognition.

OPP, becoming the first female to hold that position in Caledon.

It was a milestone achievement. While female officers have been hired by the

One of the most rewarding aspects of her

Since she graduated from NC, DiMarco

job is that it gives her the opportunity to work

earned a Criminal Justice degree from

with the great team that surrounds her and

Athabasca University in 2010, and has

see the amazing work they do each day.

graduated from the Police Leadership

OPP since 1974, DiMarco noted that there

“Quite often the calls are very difficult

program at the University of Toronto, Rotman

were only two women in her class when she

in nature and I am so proud of the officers

School of Business Management (2010) and

began in 1991. She felt fortunate to have

and civilians who take extra time to support

the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police

always had encouraging partners, peers and

victims and families within our communities,”

Executive Global Strategies program (2017).

supervisors. Her gender stoked a mindset

she said. “They are making a difference every

within her determined to succeed on merit.

day and that is what I am so proud of.”

“I think, as a female, I likely placed some

Beyond her regular duties, DiMarco has

She still feels a connection to NC and has watched the campuses grow over the years, while visiting her sister Angie Hiller who

stress on myself not wanting colleagues to

been involved with many committees and

think that I was successful obtaining positions

initiatives focused on mental health issues,

or increasing in rank simply because of my

as the executive champion of the OPP Mental

for Spring Convocation where she was a

gender,” she said. “I continually strive to earn

Health Strategy, a member of the Mental

guest speaker and received a Distinguished

respect and gain valuable experience as I

Health Advisory Group and the Mental Health

Alumni Award. Last year, she was among the

move within the organization.”

Corporate Governance Committee. She is also

College’s nominees for the Colleges Ontario

co-chair of the OPP Commissioner’s Inclusion

Premier’s Awards (Community Service). She

superintendent, overseeing provincial traffic

Council, which aims to embed diversity

has also helped to facilitate OPP recruiters

operations within the Highway Safety Division

and inclusion in all policies, programs and

visiting the College to inform students of

and all programs associated to roadways,

service delivery; build an inclusive, healthy

potential career opportunities.

trails and waterways. She made a lateral

and respectful workplace; and reflect the

move to frontline operations the following

communities it serves at all levels.

In 2013, she was promoted to

year when she became superintendent, director of Operations for Central Region.

“I am passionate about frontline policing as most people who do come into contact

When she’s not at work, this resident of Orillia enjoys spending time with her husband Ed, a retired staff sergeant with the OPP. As for the secret to her success, DiMarco

works in the College’s HR department.

In June 2015, DiMarco returned to NC

For those who dream of following in her footsteps, DiMarco encourages them to “go for it!”

“Policing continues to evolve and there are so many wonderful opportunities to serve the communities in our province,” she said.

with police can associate with and deal with

attributes it to her ability to connect

uniform officers on a regular basis,” she said.

with people, and to qualities like being

help others and continually work with the

“To me, this is our opportunity in the policing

honest, having integrity, and giving and

community stakeholders to really make a

profession to make the biggest impact, and I

receiving respect.

difference.”

see so many positive interactions each day.”

“It’s so satisfying to be in a position to

“Everyone has a story and if we take the

DiMarco has held her current position as chief superintendent Central Region since 2016. Focused on a vision of modernizing policing for today’s needs, her days vary, ranging from operations, to human resources, to committee meetings, to partnership meetings and public events. She particularly enjoys her visits to the 14 detachments in the Central Region.

“It gives me the opportunity to speak with frontline officers and civilians that are working so hard each day to make a difference,” she said. “I also ride with frontline officers so I can always remember

Rose DiMarco delivers a speech at a June 2015 Spring Convocation ceremony. In addition to being a guest speaker, she was honoured with a Distinguished Alumni Award.

2018 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 27

myStory

Faculty profile Jodi Steele Meet NC’s woman of steel Jodi Steele is a self-admitted fan of clichés.

While the energetic physiotherapist and professor in the School of Justice and Fitness has plenty of astute life observations she could draw upon to describe her life journey, one that perhaps sums it up best is, “when one door closes, another opens.”

When her mother was diagnosed with cancer in 1997, Steele was inspired to pursue a career in oncology and physiotherapy. After earning degrees in kinesiology and physiotherapy from McMaster University, she traveled the

Physiotherapist Jodi Steele joined the College as a professor in 2015 after being diagnosed with Mixed Connective Tissue Disease.

She now focuses on training the next generation of fitness professionals.

United States, amassing a wealth of knowledge and experience in the

are creating a new market for fitness professionals who specialize in

field of physiotherapy for patients with cancer.

working with seniors, those with cancer and other health conditions.

She put this experience to work and co-developed an oncology

“Fitness is definitely one of the top 10 jobs of the future,” she said.

rehabilitation program, Cancer Rehab-The Next Step. However in

It’s also a field that is being rapidly transformed by technology, and

2005, the Ontario Health Insurance Plan de-listed physiotherapy.

Steele is helping her students to be at the forefront of that innovation.

Though this was a major setback for the industry, Steele saw new

In 2016, she and one of her students, Celeste Turner, collaborated

opportunities. In 2005, she and her husband founded Cancer Rehab

with software company Embodia to develop a mobile app that caters to

Inc., Canada’s first not-for-profit cancer rehabilitation centre. After

the unique fitness needs of transgender individuals. The idea for the

several successful years, Wellspring bought her idea and hired her.

app came through a class project Steele designed, in which students

The program is now offered at seven Wellspring locations.

created a fitness program for a selected population.

A drastic change came to Steele’s career, and life, in 2012. A

That class project also inspired Health and Fitness Promotion

year after her second son was born she was diagnosed with Mixed

students Jorge Siqueira and Andrew Newton to work with Steele

Connective Tissue Disease – a rare combination of scleroderma,

to develop a business case for an app called CanCovery for cancer

myositis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis. Due to pain and loss of

recovery patients. That project won the Social Enterprise Start-

movement she could no longer be an active physiotherapist and had to

up Weekend, a competition hosted by ncTakeOff, the College’s

leave her work at Wellspring.

entrepreneurship hub.

“Everyone just wanted me to lie down, but I couldn’t. I couldn’t just do nothing,” she said.

“Those who can’t do, teach” – another of the clichés Steele is

Patients across the country now have online access to her program through Digital Media Zone, a Ryerson University-based tech incubator, which has begun to record all of her courses.

fond of. In 2015, she joined the NC team teaching in the Fitness

When asked her secret to forging on through a bevy of changes that

and Health Promotion, Exercise Science and Health Performance,

have defined her career, Steele responds with a final cliché: “Practice

and OT Assistant/PT Assistant programs. Steele is now channeling

what you preach.” An ardent believer in the power of exercise, she

her passion and energy into forming the next generation of fitness

hopes to continue teaching as long as her condition allows.

professionals, who are entering an industry undergoing big changes.

Aging demographics and an increasing desire to stay active later in life

28 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2018

“I would love to teach another 15 years.”

myStory

Faculty profile Peter VandenBerg Broadcasting prof ‘bleeds blue’ for NC Bleed blue. It’s a self-coined mantra that Peter ‘Dutch’ VandenBerg keeps coming back to.

This professor and program coordinator of the Broadcasting: Radio, Television and Film program has become known for his commitment to the College, his students and their craft. The husband and father of two champions himself as “the college dad,” because, for him, all of his students are like his children.

As for “bleeding blue” – this saying came from his class. VandenBerg, who more than often wears Niagara College-

Peter VandenBerg returned to his alma mater to become a professor in the Broadcasting - Radio, TV and Film program more than 10 years ago.

branded apparel, would point to the blue NC button on his shirt to

between freelancing and working for his family’s production company

remind his class of the logo’s importance.

– which he later turned into a sole television production company.

“When you leave, you have the responsibility to maintain that and

In 2006, he was asked to guest lecture at NC about HD

you bleed blue,” he said, pointing over his heart. “The NC button on

programming. One year later, he was called to work part-time. At that

a diploma, a CD or a demo reel means everything to me and, in our

point, he was hooked.

business, it comes with a certain expectation – they know you’re going to be great.”

He would tell 1,000 success stories each day if he could. The

Fast-forward to 2018 and he is helping to run the show as program coordinator, transferring his industry experience to the future of Canadian broadcasting and beyond.

ability to teach students is a privilege that he doesn’t take lightly and

Over the years, VandenBerg and NC’s Broadcasting program have

wearing the NC logo is a badge of honour. He is always eager to share

had the opportunity to work local and international productions – from

his students’ accomplishments and help them unlock their potential.

the College’s Seafood Gala to the OCAA basketball championship

“I think it comes from the absolute root of being proud,” he said.

and an International Ice Hockey Federation World Junior Hockey

“I think it’s hard enough to get kids to realize their potential and,

tournament. The College’s involvement with the IIHF tournament

when they see in themselves what you see in them, it’s pretty magical

opened doors to more opportunities for Broadcasting students, leading

… you can push them out into the industry where they’ll shine.”

them to work in professional sports and franchises.

Growing up, VandenBerg would listen to his mother – who worked

“That’s the reward. It’s bigger than the tournament, it’s bigger

part-time at the College – laud about the achievements of her

than us, or the gear,” he said. “Those kids have the opportunity to sit

students and he admired how rewarding the job could be. While the

down and do what they’re good at, have someone recognize it and give

inspiration to teach and inspire others developed later, his interest in

them the nod.”

programming and film was instilled at young age. He spent some of

In 2017, he received the College’s Award of Excellence in honour

his childhood in Alberta where his father worked at a cable station.

of his contributions to NC and its Broadcasting program. He was also

His interest in programming and television led him to enrol in NC’s

recognized with the Niagara Champion Award in 2013 for his efforts

multifaceted Broadcasting program.

in recruiting. VandenBerg considers himself lucky to love what he does

“I came here to become a film director,” he recalled. “I got my best marks in radio and I graduated in television.”

During his internship, he worked for a Toronto production company,

and wishes the same for his students.

“It starts with students and ends with students,” he said. “That’s why we’re all here.”

producing hockey programs such as Leafs this Week. He then bounced 2018 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 29

myStory

Staff profile Monique Morin Putting the ‘care’ into Career Services Ask Monique Morin what she finds most rewarding about her job as a career consultant at Niagara College, and she may point to her favourite mug.

“Thank you for all the ways you bring joy to the world,” she said, reading it from her office within the College’s bustling Career Services Department. “On the inside, it says, ‘You make a difference.’”

Since it was gifted to her by a former student who she had brought

Monique Morin has helped usher thousands of NC students into the workforce over the years, as a career consultant for the College’s Career Services department.

on to work part-time in the department several years ago, the mug has become a treasured reminder of the life-changing impact Morin has on

giveaway for students. Clothing donations are collected from College

those she meets – and there have been many. Students she has worked

employees for months prior to the events, held at the Welland and

with often return to see her. Whether it’s to seek help to find a job, or

the NOTL campuses, where students have an opportunity to pick up

to celebrate a new position, her door is always open.

professional attire free of charge. The event has become increasingly

Morin spends her days at the College helping to connect students with the world of work – from visiting classrooms and presenting on creating effective resumes and cover letters, hosting live interview

successful and Morin is passionate about how it has assisted so many students on campus, and the generosity of the College community.

“I see students wearing the clothing they picked up from the drive

workshops, or meeting with students one-on-one to help with their job

all the time,” she said. “People around here, there’s nothing they won’t

search strategy. Over the years, she has helped thousands of students

do for the other person, and it spreads.”

bridge the gap to employment by not only providing expert advice, but helping them feel more at ease with the process.

It can be a difficult sphere for anyone to navigate, particularly in a competitive job market, but for many students – who have never held jobs, been interviewed before, are struggling with personal challenges, or are new to Canada – the process can be even more stressful.

The clothing drive is a prelude to the All About Options job fair where students have an opportunity to meet face-to-face with potential employers. The annual fair has become increasingly popular as well, drawing a growing number of employers to the College’s campuses.

The Career Services office has also recently introduced InterviewStream, a new online tool which enables students to practice

Morin values the trust students and faculty place in her.

interviewing, with thousands of sample questions organized by sector,

“The students who see me are often financially strapped or they’re

and record their responses.

seeing me because they are panicked about finding work, are worried

When students express insecurity about performing in interviews,

about gaps in their resume, or they never had a real job,” she said.

Morin is always eager to dig into her arsenal of humorous anecdotes to

“Sometimes they will bring up things that are tough to discuss.”

help ease their nervousness

Morin, who was honoured with the College’s Support Staff Award

“I tell them, ‘you think you will be the worst interview? Trust me, you

of Excellence in 2017, has not only been a valued staff member at

won’t,’” she said. “We’ve had people throw up, cry, and parts of their

NC for more than 30 years, she is also a graduate. She grew up in

clothing fall off. I’ll even use examples from my own life about what

Welland and enrolled at the College during the early 1980s, where she

not to do.”

graduated from marketing.

In 1984, she began working in recruitment for the College’s French

Morin advises students to be prepared, and – above all – to be themselves. The latter is a quality to which she attributes her own

language programs, a position that led her to travel high schools and

career success. She recalls the horror of feeling unprepared for one of

colleges across Ontario to spread the word about NC and the Niagara

her first job interviews, but luckily she managed to turn it around in her

region. When French programming ended, she continued working in

favour. Turns out, that interview was for her first job at NC.

recruitment, before moving to work for a Jobs Ontario program, then to

“At some point, I let go of the image of what I thought I should be

her current role as a career consultant which she has held for the past

saying and how ridiculous I felt I sounded and they started to like me,”

nine years.

she said.

Morin takes pride in the many initiatives she has been a part of at NC. She organizes the College’s Dress for Success free annual clothing 30 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2018

“Forget about perfection, be you, allow yourself to feel the vibe in the room and do what feels right.”

myConnection

Donor profile Paul Charette Construction leader helps students build dreams Paul Charette isn’t only an example of what college graduates can achieve; he makes it his mission to help others lay the foundation for their own success.

This multiple-award-winning construction industry leader who built his career leading Bird Construction to become one of the top performing general contractors in Canada, is a strong supporter of the Canadian college system. During the past two years, he and his wife

Paul and Gerri Charette attend the 2018 Seafood Gala.

Gerri have also become major bursary donors at Niagara College.

Charette looks back to his own humble roots as his inspiration for giving back. Fifty years ago, he received a bursary that changed the course of his life by giving him the means to pursue a college

“I WOULDN’T HAVE GONE TO COLLEGE IF IT WEREN’T FOR THE BURSARY. I DIDN’T EVEN KNOW POSTSECONDARY EXISTED.”

education.

“I wouldn’t have gone to college if it weren’t for the bursary,” he said. “I didn’t even know postsecondary existed.”

Childhood was a challenging time for Charette, who grew up very poor in a small community north of Winnipeg. His family of six lived in a small 700-square-foot house without sewer or water and his father was abusive and an alcoholic.

“I never really had any dreams,” he recalled. “I didn’t even know I had to have dreams.”

His decision to enrol in a civil technology program at Red River

He became director of Colleges and Institutes Canada for six years, a role which led him to speak at colleges across Canada and to lobby the federal government to fund college expansion and for increased funding for applied research and innovation.

With his wife Gerri by his side, a former teacher who shares his strong support for education, the Charettes began to set up funds at different colleges across the country. In 2016, they established the Paul and Gerri Charette Bursary at Niagara College – an endowed fund for students in the School of Technology. Their $250,000 donation

College was the direct result of receiving a $200 bursary from the

received a standing ovation during a spring convocation ceremony

Women’s Auxillary of West Kildonan. The funds were enough to

two years ago when Charette was a distinguished guest speaker and

cover his first year of tuition, and Charette worked night shifts every

recipient of an Honorary Diploma in Technology Studies. That amount

Friday and Saturday to pay for his room and board. After graduating

was matched by the College to begin a $500,000 endowed fund in

in 1967, he returned to college to further his education in computer

their name.

programming.

Because of their generosity, four School of Technology students

After graduating, Charette built up a career as a highly respected

received $3,000 bursaries during the 2017-2018 academic

leader in the construction industry. He was hired by Bird Construction

year. In December 2017, the Charettes donated an additional

as a project coordinator in 1976 – a job which led him to relocate to

$250,000 to NC.

several cities before transferring to Toronto in 1985. He quickly moved

For the Charettes, hearing a bursary recipient say, “Thank you. You

up the ladder from manager to president and COO in 1988, then

have no idea how you changed my life,” is one of the greatest rewards.

to president and CEO in 1991. Under his leadership, the company

He calls them the “11 magic words” which inspire him and Gerri to

experienced a period of substantial growth and became recognized

continue their philanthropy. For them, it’s about opening students up

among the top 10 general contractors in Canada. While he retired as

to new opportunities through postsecondary education and helping

CEO 10 years ago, Charette retains appointment as chair of the board –

them succeed.

a position he has held since 2001.

Charette’s leadership in the industry led him to become involved with colleges in an effort to attract more young people to the field

“The more I get involved, the more I see results and the more I want to help out,” he said.

To date, the Charettes, who reside in Oakville, have established

and address the shortage of skilled workers. As chair of the Canadian

more than 25 college bursaries across Canada. Charette is currently a

Construction Association and chair of a national coalition, the main

member of Niagara College’s Board of Governors.

goal was to increase funding for college capacity.

2018 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 31

myConnection

Donor spotlight

The Marotta family donates $1M toward new agri-food innovation complex

The Marotta family supports student success. Benny and Louise Marotta are pictured with daughters Angela and Melissa, son-in-law Giuseppe Paolicelli, and their grandchildren.

This spring, the family of Benny and Louise Marotta donated $1

Toronto, Vaughan Hospice, the Art Gallery of Ontario, Caledon Food

million to support the College’s Achieving Dreams Campaign, which

Bank and others.

wrapped up this year.

The donation – announced at the College’s Seafood Gala in April

Louise and Benny’s daughters, Angela and Melissa, are the proprietors of the award-winning Two Sisters Vineyards in Niagara-

– will support the new agri-food innovation complex currently under

on-the-Lake. Two Sisters Vineyards has also committed $20,000 to

construction at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus.

NC to establish the Two Sisters Vineyards Bursary Fund. Two awards

In recognition of the Marotta family’s generous gift, Niagara College

of $2,000 each will be awarded annually to students in the College’s

has named the new complex the Marotta Family Innovation Complex.

Culinary Innovation and Food Technology, Culinary Management, and

The new 49,000-square-foot four-storey complex is scheduled for

Winery and Viticulture Technician programs.

completion in fall 2018 and will significantly enhance the College’s

“All of us at Niagara College are extremely grateful to the Marotta

ability to support the growing competitiveness of Niagara’s agri-

family for their generosity,” said president Dan Patterson. “This

business sector.

gift, supporting the Marotta Family Innovation Complex, will provide

“As a family we have always looked ahead towards progress, keeping

our students with innovative learning spaces, and facilitate cutting-

traditions alive and making communities stronger,” said the Marotta

edge research projects that will move Niagara’s growing agri-food

family. “Our goal is to help ensure this vibrant student community

industry forward.”

is always looking forward and that they will achieve successes in all aspects of their life.”

Patterson noted that the gift is an important investment in innovation and economic development in the Niagara region.

The family has been active in land and community development

“The additional support through the Two Sisters Vineyards Bursary

within Southern Ontario. They have a history of supporting various

will help many capable and aspiring students pursue a postsecondary

charitable organizations close to their hearts such as Mackenzie

education, who otherwise may not have been able to,” he said.

Health, Humber River Hospital, The Hospital for Sick Children in

32 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2018

myConnection

DREAMS ACHIEVED with more Thank than $11Myou! raised

Photo: shawntaylor.ca

Niagara College has 11 million reasons to thank those who have

Daniela Cortes Aristizabal graduated in 2015 from the College’s

(FRONT, FROM LEFT) NC alumni Connor McCulloch, Daniela Cortes Aristizabal and Gurjeet Dhaliwal with generously supported students through the recently completed Business–Sales and Marketing program, and will graduate for a Niagara College’s Student Administrative Council, Niagara College Board of Governors Chair John F.T. Scott Achieving Dreams fundraising campaign. second time this spring from Mechanical Engineering. Aristizabal (second from right), President Dan Patterson (front row, far right), and Niagara College students (back row) At a special event on March 26 thanking those who have made benefited from the state-of-the-art equipment and innovative learning to reveal the total amount raised through the Achievingopportunities Dreams Campaign.

The campaign far exceeded its significant contributions to the campaign, it was announced that provided through the Walker Advanced Manufacturing goal of $7 million, raising more than $11 million.

Achieving Dreams far surpassed its goal of $7 million, raising a total Innovation Centre. The Centre was funded in part by a generous gift of $11,450,791.

from Walker Industries and the Walker family.

The campaign was launched in April 2015, with a goal of

It takes a lot of help to make

“Thanks to this on-campus, state-of-the-art facility, students like

1,375 DONORS

supporting student success through campus redevelopment projects,

me have a place to apply the skills we learn in the classroom at a real

equipment and learning resources, scholarships and bursaries, as

job, with a variety of industry clients,” she said.

well as study-work abroad and student leadership development

Gurjeet Dhaliwal grew up in India and immigrated to Canada at

Because of you... any support or income, Dhaliwal had a master’s degree in Math and

opportunities. Thanks to generous donor support, 788 new student

the age of 20 in search of a better life. Arriving in Canada without

scholarships and bursaries were created, and $1.6 million in new

instructional equipment was purchased to help provide students with

Economics but could only make a living by working a series of odd

jobs. She entered the College’s Dentalraised Hygienist program and is now a • $11,450,791 has been

the up-to-date equipment and support to excel in their studies.

DREAMS COME TRUE.

Donations have also helped fund 203,000 square feet of new and

proud graduate. Thanks to donors, she was able to learn on the latest

high-tech equipment that eased her transition to the workplace.

• 788 new scholarships and enhance the student experience and expand the College’s research “At NC’s dental clinic I trained on leading-edge equipment,” said and innovation capabilities, such as a 49,000-square-foot innovation Dhaliwal. were “From computer software programs, to digital x-rays, to bursaries awarded renovated learning spaces, providing new and expanded facilities to

complex to support Niagara’s agricultural-business sector, and the

instruments like the ultrasonic cleaner, the equipment we learned to

use as students prepared us well for the realities of working in clinical • $1.6 million of instructional students and faculty work with local manufacturing companies on environments” applied research projects to help them grow their businesses.

Connor McCulloch is also a proud graduate and is living his dream equipment was purchased “Niagara College is extremely grateful to the many individuals and as an advanced care paramedic. Receiving a scholarship helped Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre, where teams of

organizations who have so generously supported our students through

to alleviate some of the financial pressures that came with being a

Donors to the campaign saw the effect their contributions have had

program changed the way I thought about being paramedic. By the

Eva or M. Lewis • 203,000 sq. ft. of new the Achieving Dreams campaign,” said president Dan Patterson. student, and allowed him to focus on his studies.

“Whether it’s learning equipment, innovative learning environments “All the time I spent focusing on my studies paid off. I graduated renovated learning spaces or financial aid that helps students pursue their dreams, your with a professionalism award from my program, which reassured contributions have made, and will continue to make, a lasting impact me that I was on the right track with my career choice,” he said. were created on the life and success of our students.”

“Perhaps most importantly, being able to fully immerse myself in the first-hand, as three alumni shared their own personal stories.

When you invest in Niagara College students,

time I graduated, it was a true passion for me.”

2018 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 33

myConnection

Seafood Gala reels in more than $200,000 for student success

GALA SPONSORS INCLUDED: Presenting sponsor: Niagara Casinos Presenting media sponsor: Torstar Admiral: Rankin Construction Inc., and TD Insurance Meloche Monnex Commander: RA Shaw Designs, Harmony Jewellers, and Vintage Hotels Lieutenant: Beatties Basics, CogecoTV, Design Electronics, MasterCard, Plan A Vacation, AmaWaterways, Ricoh, and White Oaks Resort and Spa

The 2018 Seafood Gala was supported by more than 75 student volunteers from a variety of program areas.

NC Development and Alumni expresses

Niagara Casinos (presenting sponsor).

heartfelt thanks to generous sponsors, donors

“Together we have a vested interest in highly-

and guests who supported the 29th Annual

skilled graduates entering the workforce

Seafood Gala held at the Fallsview Casino

and contributing to the success of our

Resort on April 6.

Niagara region.”

This year’s gala raised more than

“We’re very grateful for the ongoing support

Engineer: Canadian Food and Wine Institute, The Outlet Collection at Niagara, and Peninsula Lakes Golf Club First mate: Great Wolf Lodge, Sean Taylor Photography, Seaway Mall, and YMCA of Niagara Corporate table sponsors: AOS Group, Arterra

$200,000 for instructional equipment,

of Niagara Casinos,” said NC president Dan

Wines Canada, Avaya Canada, Bell Canada,

learning resources, scholarships and

Patterson. “We wouldn’t be able to present

Bosch Rexroth Canada, Canadian Tire Bank,

bursaries, to help Niagara College students

this fabulous event without their generosity.”

Chartwells, Combat Networks, Commercial

achieve their dreams. During the past 29

Cleaning Services, Dell Canada, District

years, this event has raised more than

School Board of Niagara, General Motors – St. Catharines, Great Wolf Lodge, KPMG,

$2.8 million.

L.J. Barton Mechanical Inc., Meridian,

“Niagara College has paved the way for

Niagara Region - Economic Development,

enhanced community growth and Niagara Casinos is proud to be partners on that journey,” said Richard Taylor, president,

Niagara Casinos was the presenting sponsor for the Seafood Gala and continued its legacy of giving by providing $25,000 in support of student success.

Presenting: Rankin Construction Inc., and TD Insurance Meloche Monnex

Above-par support for student athletes at Golf Classic

Presenting Media: Torstar

The Niagara College 2017 Golf Classic raised

Eagle: Campus Living Centres, Chartwells, Commercial Cleaning Services, Cooper Wealth Management, Hallex Engineering Ltd., and Meridian

$51,000 to support scholarships for student

THANK YOU to all 2017 Golf Classic sponsors

Links: Peninsula Lakes Golf Club Corporate Foursome: Access 2 Networks; adidas Canada; Arterra Wines Canada; Avaya / Combat Networks; Bosch Rexroth Canada; Canadian Tire Bank; District School Board of Niagara; Great Wolf Lodge; guard.me International Insurance; Joseph C. McCallum, Barrister & Solicitor; Paragon Security; PenFinancial Credit Union; Ricoh; Sullivan Mahoney LLP; Sunshine Building Maintenance; TD Bank Group; Technology Integration Group; Telcon Datvox Inc.; THK Rhythm Automotive Canada; Urban and Environmental Management; and Vintage Hotels

34 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2018

RBC, Sullivan Mahoney LLP, TD Bank Group, Telcon Datvox Network Cabling, and Vintage Hotels

athletes – bringing the total amount raised through this event over the past 15 years to $602,000.

The event’s success was made possible by its generous and loyal golfers, sponsors and donors. It proved to be a wonderful day shared with friends and colleagues, with perfect weather, amazing food and great fun for all.

NC’s Development and Alumni team is

President Dan Patterson (far left) gathers with 2017 Golf Classic student volunteers and official NC Knights mascot, Knightro (front centre). about the event’s mission: to support students in achieving their dreams.

very proud of the more than 30 student

SAVE THE DATE

volunteers who made the day truly special

Don’t miss the Niagara College Golf Classic

by demonstrating their applied learning

on Tuesday, September 18, 2018 at

experiences and reminding all who attended

Peninsula Lakes Golf Club.

myConnection

Meet the Niagara College Board of Governors for 2017-2018 Niagara College is proud to recognize its 2017/2018 Board of Governors. We would like to thank these individuals who dedicate their time to leading Niagara College. They help our students achieve their dreams with unparalleled experience and satisfaction.

Paul Charette Chair Bird Construction Inc.

Dr. Dan Patterson President Niagara College

Bill Crumm Administrative Representative Niagara College

Blair Pollard Senior Vice President Human Resources TJX Canada

Giacomo Folinazzo Academic Staff Representative Niagara College

Keith Simmonds Vice President General Manager Great Wolf Lodge, Niagara Falls

John F.T. Scott (Chair) Chair of the Canadian Agri-Food Policy Institute

Vineet Bhatia Del Rollo (Vice-Chair) Senior Director, Industry Student Representative Niagara College Relations and Estates Arterra Wines Canada

Lynn Calder Support Staff Representative Niagara College

Carolyn Hurst President Westcott Vineyards

Dr. Suzanne Johnston President Niagara Health

Caroline Mann Vice President of Finance Haver & Boecker Canada

Wade Stayzer Vice President Retail Meridian Credit Union

Tom MacDonald Former Diplomat Government of Canada

Mary Turner Retired, President & CEO Canadian Tire Bank

Wendy Wing Senior Vice-President of Finance and Administration Rankin Construction, Inc.

AS REPRESENTATIVES OF THE COMMUNITY, THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF NIAGARA COLLEGE IS THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE COLLEGE AND HAS RESPONSIBILITY FOR FIDUCIARY OVERSIGHT AND INSTITUTIONAL PERFORMANCE.

Benefits and services for NC grads FREE ACCESS TO INTERVIEWSTREAM InterviewStream is a free online service provided by the Career Services department where you can practice interviewing skills in the comfort of your own home.

Get started at www.niagaracollege. interviewstream.com. Simply click on sign up now, enter your Niagara College email and create a password ... and then you are ready to start!

Please note: only individuals with a Niagara College email can access this service.

NC FRAMES AVAILABLE Development 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

HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?

As a graduate of Niagara College, you become a member of our alumni community, which is more than 80,000 strong.

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

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.

Please update your contact information at niagaracollege.ca/alumni ›› Share your career success story ›› Get free online access to InterviewStream ›› Receive monthly e-newsletter with successful grad stories, events and news ›› Receive 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.

Toronto Dominion Insurance

›› Alumni preferred rates on home and car insurance. ›› Personalized service and advice ›› Insurance that fits your needs 2018 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 35

myConnection

Scholarship recipient pays it forward

College dream gets a second chance

situations can stop you from reaching your goals,” she said.

While she was thankful for the support of her husband who could cover basic household costs and for the ability to afford childcare, investing in her future came with financial constraints. With a baby at home, she wasn’t able to take on a job in addition to her studies. As a mature student, her parents weren’t footing the bill for her education.

For Brown, receiving a scholarship “was a blessing.”

“I can honestly say that I would not have been able to start college without the financial assistance I received,” she said. “It helped curb the costs of tuition and allowed me to purchase my books to get started.

A woman with an education is unstoppable.

“It bridged the gap between OSAP and the

That’s what award-winning entrepreneur

balance I needed to make it in the doors.”

Ashley Brown believes, and it’s why she

Brown now uses the skills she acquired

makes it her mission to help empower women

in her classes at NC to run her business.

– or, more specifically, help them empower

Combining her education with “hustle,

themselves to rise.

ambition and action” has helped her design

Since she graduated from Niagara College’s Business Administration – Operations Management (Co-op) program in 2009, Brown

the life she desires – one that enables her to work from home while raising three children.

She finds it rewarding to work with other

has risen up in her own right. As the owner

entrepreneurs and assist them with planning

and artistic director of She Implements, she

and implementing their growth strategies.

helps entrepreneurs take their businesses

“I get the pleasure of taking action and

to the next level by providing virtual

helping others rise daily,” she said. “I enjoy

business support.

that I am able to give back and live my life to

Her work has earned her a 2017 Top 40

its higher purpose of helping women empower

Under 40 Business Achievement Award from

themselves to create a bigger impact on

The Business Link Niagara. She was also a

the world.”

finalist at last year’s Greater Niagara Chamber

One of the founding principles that Brown

of Commerce Women in Business Awards in

has built into her company is one that is

the Emerging Business category.

personally meaningful to her: education

Getting to where she is today however,

support. She does this through the She

hasn’t been easy for Brown. She enrolled in

Implements scholarship fund – making a

Niagara College’s Business Administration –

yearly commitment to help mature women

Operations Management (Co-op) program as a

attend postsecondary education.

mature student at the age of 24 with a threemonth-old baby girl at home.

“I knew I wanted to have a better life and be able to tell my daughter that no life

36 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2018

“I believe financial assistance is so important,” she said.

“It removes a restraint for people who are trying to better their lives.”

What causes a student with a work ethic of steel and an unwavering determination to succeed to drop out of college?

For Tabitha Hendricks, it was the devastating news that her mother was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer. At the time, she was in her second year of NC’s Culinary Innovation and Food Technology program. College life was challenging for Hendricks, who was also working to support her education and living expenses.

Her grades slipped, her OSAP was cut, and Hendricks felt she had no choice but to leave college.

“You never really predict how hard it’s going to hit you,” she said. “It was an emotional time.”

Hendricks helped her mother through chemotherapy, drove her to treatments, gave her injections, and did whatever was needed to help out at home. Working multiple jobs to help pay the bills, she was determined to save every extra dollar to continue her education.

In fall 2016, her mother went into remission and Hendricks returned to the classroom. She took the maximum number of courses possible to make up for those she missed and increased her average by 17% during her first term back.

Juggling her studies with work has been challenging but Hendricks was grateful for support. Receiving a scholarship has helped to ease the burden of financial worry and allowed her to focus on her studies.

“You can work hard but anytime you can have a helping hand, it can really make a difference,” she said. “You never know what life will throw at you; it’s about how you bounce back.”

myConnection

Staff giving

Meet four NC employees who invest in student success by donating to scholarships, bursaries and campus redevelopment THERESA ANZOVINO

PAUL WEERDENBURG

Professor, School of Academic and Liberal Studies

Professor, School of Technology; Coordinator, Construction Engineering Technology Giving since 2009

Giving since 2010 Why do I give? On a personal level, coming from a large working class

Not only am I speaking as the coordinator of the Construction

family, scholarships and bursaries helped to make postsecondary

Engineering Technology program, but I am confident that I echo

education accessible, so supporting student success through donations

similar beliefs of my colleagues in our program of honouring student

to Niagara College is a way of paying it forward. In 2010, together

excellence through the Construction Engineering Technology Award.

with colleagues from the Academic and Liberal Studies department,

We are committed to the Niagara College Strategic Plan’s values of

we established the Sociology Faculty Bursary. Now in its eighth year,

being student focused and providing a commitment to excellence.

this bursary helps graduating students transition to the workforce or

We do this by recognizing student and academic growth. We have, for

ongoing education. The Sociology Faculty Bursary helps remind us as

a number of years, made it a goal to honour one student each year

donors that sociology is more than an academic discipline – it is also

(who is returning to our program) as a way to celebrate their academic

a practice-based profession that embraces community development

growth and excellence. By giving monthly to the College, we guarantee

principles. In support of the College’s vision of enriching lives and

that funding will be made available for students who are in pursuit

fulfilling dreams of students, we hope that we might also contribute

and demonstrate this goal as well for years to come. It shows that, as

to the building of stronger and more resilient local communities. In

faculty, we not only care about our students’ success but that we also

2017, inspired by the Student Administrative Council’s leadership and

want to invest in their future through this scholarship. Students hold

progressive new approach to students’ food insecurity, I was happy to

this scholarship in high esteem knowing that their dedication and hard

also begin contributing to the Nourishing Minds program.

work has been acknowledged. This is a gift that keeps on giving.

GILLIAN SHRINER

DAVID PASTIRIK

Administrative assistant, Facilities Management

Professor, School of Business and Management; Coordinator, International Business Giving since 2010

Giving since 2013 I’ve been giving back to the College since 2013. After some

There is only one reason why I give – the students. I have been blessed

consideration, I decided that my donation should go directly to

with two successful careers, and it would have been impossible without

supporting campus redevelopment. I’m proud of the work that we do

the support of my family, my company and others. This is my chance

in Facilities and believe that innovative, safe, and functional spaces

to pay it forward. My students inspire me to do my best, give me hope

provide the underpinning for an effective learning and healthy work

for the future and make me laugh. Some of them may stumble, or be

environment at Niagara College. Well designed and built teaching

distracted from their studies, but they all deserve a chance to fulfill

spaces are an integral part of our students’ learning experience and,

their dreams. By giving, I express my support of their efforts.

subsequently, their success in their programs. Old spaces are being modernized to meet their needs, and new spaces are being built with experiential learning and changing pedagogy in mind.

2018 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 37

myConnection

Thank you Our heartfelt thanks to our generous donors and supporters who together, contributed $3,516,479 to Niagara College from April 1, 2017 to March 31, 2018. Their donations are vital to student success. The following lists donors who gave $100 or more.

Company Anonymous (4) 733371 Ontario Inc. Access 2 Networks adidas Canada Akran Marketing Altus Group AmaWaterways Ann-Louise Branscombe Fund at Niagara Community Foundation AOS Group Aquicon Construction Co. Ltd. Arterra Wines Canada Arvinte Medicine Professional Corporation Avaya Canada Backyard Axe Throwing League Baking Association of Canada Ontario Chapter Bartok Foundation BBBlooms Floral Studio BCCA Niagara Beatties Basics Beau’s All Natural Brewing Company Beer Canada Best Western Cairn Croft Hotel Bosch Rexroth Canada Corp.

BRANDBLVD Brock University Business Success & Loan Centre CAA Niagara Campus Living Centres Inc. Canadian Food & Wine Institute Canadian National Exhibition Canadian Tire - Grimsby Canadian Tire - Louth St Canadian Tire - McLeod Rd Canadian Tire - Montrose Rd Canadian Tire Bank Capital Wealth Management Chartwells, Compass Group Canada Chateau des Charmes Wine Ltd. Chef’s Hat Inc. Christie’s Dairy Ltd. City of Welland Clockwork Systems Inc. Closson Chase Vineyards

COGECO Cole’s Florist & Garden Centre College Compensation and Appointments Council Colleges Ontario Combat Networks Commercial Cleaning Services Cooper Wealth Management Dell Canada Deloitte LLP Design Electronics Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers Distinguished Restaurants of North America (DiRONA) District School Board of Niagara Doug Forsythe Gallery Dr. Charles Daly & Associates Dr. Christina Plaskos - AEGIS Lumisceuticals Ed Learn Ford Estate of Peter Kormos Estate of Marilyn I. Walker Farm Credit Canada FirstOntario Credit Union Flett Beccario Barristers & Solicitors Follett Higher Education Group Four Point Travel Framecraft Ltd. Garland Canada Gary Waters General Motors of Canada Company Girotti Machine Golf Association of Ontario GoodLife Fitness - Bunting Rd Gord’s Place Grand Niagara Golf Club Great Wolf Lodge Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce guard.me International Insurance Hallex Engineering Ltd. Hamill Machine Company Inc. Hamilton Fire Control Hamilton Tiger-Cats Football Hang Ups Harmony Jewellers Ltd. HATCH Heelis Little Almas Murray LLP

GIVE THE GIFT OF A LIFETIME Through your will, insurance policy, or 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 to create a legacy for future generations. With easy and thoughtful planning, you can make provisions to recognize academic achievement or provide 38 encore | niagaracollege.ca | 2018

Hicks Morley Hamilton Stewart Storie LLP Holiday Inn & Suites Parkway Conference Centre Home Depot - St. Catharines Home Hardware - Grantham Plaza Hornblower Niagara Cruises Hospitality Fallsview Holdings Inc IAMGOLD Corporation ICICI Bank Canada Jeffery’s Greenhouses Jeffery’s Greenhouses Plant II Limited John Howard Society of Niagara Joseph C. McCallum Barrister & Solicitor Kaneff Group of Companies Kao Canada KPMG L.J. Barton Mechanical Inc. Landscape Ontario Golden Horseshoe Chapter Lee Restaurant Lincoln Garden Club & Horticultural Society Loblaws Inc. Mandarin Restaurant Franchise Corporation Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment Mapleview Charities Marlen Investment Corporation MasterCard Canada Mercer Culinary Meridian Moksha Yoga Mori Gardens Design & Garden Centre mosquito.buzz Mountainview Homes MTE Consultants Inc. Nella Cutlery Niagara Bruce Trail Club Niagara College Retirees’ Association Niagara College Student Administrative Council Niagara Construction Association Niagara Helicopters Ltd. Niagara Horticultural Society Niagara Industrial Association Niagara Parks Commission

Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation Niagara Region Niagara Region - Economic Development Niagara Stone Specialist Niagara Symphony Orchestra Niagara Valley of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry - Elgin Lodge & Niagara Chapter of Rose Croix Niagara-on-the-Lake Bed and Breakfast Association Nikon Canada Inc. Ontario Craft Brewers OPSEU Local 242 Paragon Security Pearl Morissette Estate Winery Inc PenFinancial Credit Union Peninsula Lakes Golf Club Penn Terra Group Pinder’s Security Products PMA Praxair Canada Inc. RA Shaw Designs Rachel Delaney Insurance Agency Ltd. Raimondo + Associates Architects Inc. Rankin Construction Inc. Ravine Vineyard RBC RBC Foundation Ricoh Document Management Rotary Club of Grimsby Rotary Club of Niagara-on-the-Lake Rotary Club of Welland Rousseau House Restaurant & Lounge Scotiabank Scott Laboratories Ltd. Seaway Mall Sean Taylor Photography Sinclair Dental Company Skills Canada Ontario Smart Serve Ontario St. Catharines Horticultural Society Street Seen Media Strewn Winery StuCor Construction Ltd. Sullivan Mahoney LLP

invaluable financial assistance, while supporting a program area of your choice. You may also make your gift in honour or in memory of a special person in your life.

Your legacy gift will leave a lasting impression on our students for many years to come.

Learn how you can create your own lasting legacy Contact NC Development and Alumni Relations at 905-641-2252: Wendy Dueck ext. 7569 Helen Armstrong ext. 7847 Ellen Bayley ext. 7384 Jana Boniferro ext. 7427

myConnection

Sunshine Building Maintenance Inc. Sysco Taps Media Inc. Taris on the Water TD Bank Group TD Insurance Meloche Monnex Technology Integration Group Telcon Datvox Cabling Solutions The Baron Company Corp.

The County Cider Company Inc. The Feathery Pub The Keg Steakhouse + Bar - Fallsview/ Embassy Suites The Outlet Collection at Niagara The Tourism Partnership of Niagara THK Rhythm Automotive Canada TJX Canada Torstar Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake treadwell farm | to table | cuisine Trillium Automobile Dealer Association Trout Unlimited Canada - Niagara Chapter Two Sisters Vineyards Urban & Environmental Management Vineland Estates Winery Ltd. Vineland Research & Innovation Centre Vines to Vintages Inc. Vintage Hotels Walker Industries Welland Horticultural Society Wellport Broadcasting Ltd. Westbrooke of Ancaster Fine Tailored Men’s Clothing Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours White Oaks Resort & Spa WT Partnership YMCA of Niagara Yoga by Sarah Zonta Club of Niagara Falls

Individuals Anonymous (14) Bob Aaroe Theresa Anzovino Helen Armstrong David Baker, Grey & Gold Cider Joanne Bakker Amy Barlow Janice Barton Rino Berardi Christopher Blake Christine Blane Michael Boldin Larry & Joan Bourk

Jeanie Bourque Gayle Breitenbach Mark & Jean Brohman Judy Calvin Paul & Gerri Charette Robynne Cole Jim & Pat Collard Judy Cornwall & John Mott Joanne & Michael Cousineau Bill Crumm Mario & Rachel De Divitiis Marilyn Dickinson Gary Dolch Kevin Dover Wendy Dueck Duncan Family Maizie Dunk Adam Dusome Stefane Filion Brian Findlay & Mary Thomas Joy A. Flegg & Family Janet Fraser Rene Galipeau V.S. Goela Katerina Gonzalez Doug Hamilton Cole Hayes Donna Held Henderson Family Hernandez Family Gail Hilyer Dave Hogan Jackie Horner Fred Howe Janet & Ron Howes Carolyn Hurst & Grant Westcott Janet Jakobsen Warren Jestin Lois Johnson John & Suzanne Johnston Bob & Maureen Josefchak Jana & Michael Katz Vic & Farida Kerschl Dr. Mary Kilmer-Tchalekian Catherine & David Kuckyt Esther Lee George Lepp Letwin Family Darlene Levinski Gary Long Allan Magnacca Richard & Caroline Mann Benny & Louise Marotta Virginia Marr Brad McLean Medulun Family

Mennacher Family Shelley Merlo Bryan and Terri Mewhiney David Miehm Chris Pocknell & Jessie Miller Tonie Mori Dianne & John Murphy Misheck Mwaba Nantel & Ward-Smith Family Dr. Agnes Nowaczek Jamie Oresar Wing Pak David Pastirik Dr. Daniel & Saundra Patterson Debra Pepler Henri & Nicole Perreault David & Maya Pickering Debi Pratt Pamella Richards Jacqueline P. Robarts Arend & Darlene Roos Claire Rosati Dr. Bonnie Rose Dr. Jean-Placide Rubabaza Gerald F. Ruch Orel Ruiz Rick & Sharon Santing Weingut Scherner-Kleinhanß Dave Schroeder John Scott Michael Scott Sandra Scott Sinclair Family Gillian & Patrick Shriner Pam & Matthew Skinner Eileen Snyder & Brian Snyder Jill Soos Bill Summers David Taylor Dave Thomas & Monica Schouten Jay & Barrie Tober Gary Torraville Brodie & Maria Townley Dean Tudor Dr. Allan Turner Ted & Marge Van Geest Nick & Eda Varalli David & Louise Veres Jim & Anne Wait Rob Walters Washington Family Paul Weerdenburg Verena Wenzel Tatiana Young

In Memory Phyllis Barnatt Alex Bartok II Alex Bartok III Barbara Bartok Wray Benner Nikolaus Bohr Bill Brouwers Elizabeth Carver Katy Cole Randy Cole Harry Dayboll Kate Dixon Bette Ferguson E.P. Flegg Medard “Chuck” Frigault Marjorie Hannah Glen H. Henderson Isabel Hernandez Maltos Grant Howes Jim Hunter Peter Kormos Dennis Glen Letwin Celia Liu Helen Martin Patricia Menon Alice Moss Mark Nelson Wilhelmina Ostrander Steven Saltzberry Cheryl Snyder Matt Soos Jesse Torraville Marilyn I. Walker Frank F. Wieler Virginia Wilcox Amber Wise Len Yust

In Honour/Celebration Patricia Anzovino Nedra & Sudesh Gupta Jana Katz Greg Swick We strive for accuracy.

We apologize for any errors or omissions.

Donate online or call 905-641-2252 ext. 7841 to pay by credit card. Cheques payable to Niagara College can be mailed to: Development & Alumni Relations, Niagara College Canada 135 Taylor Rd., SS4 Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0

Please help by supporting student success

donate.niagaracollege.ca 2018 | niagaracollege.ca | encore 39

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