Niagara Health Knowledge Institute launches research scholarships with Niagara College, Brock University,

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A Niagara Health media release:

Niagara post-secondary students will spend their summers advancing critical healthcare research that could change standards of practice, thanks to unique partnerships between the Niagara Health Knowledge Institute (NHKI), Brock University and Niagara College.

NHKI has partnered with both educational institutions to co-fund two new scholarships, worth $10,000 each, to enable the participation of a Brock and Niagara College undergraduate student enrolled in a health-related program in research-focused placements at the NHKI between May and August.

“The goal of the NHKI-Brock University Summer Student Research Scholarship and the NHKI-Niagara College Summer Student Research Scholarship is to support the retention of high-potential students in Niagara,” says Dr. Jennifer Tsang, NHKI Executive Director and Chief Scientist, and Niagara Health Intensivist. “These partnerships will expose students to a vibrant and prolific research environment committed to advancing patient care and treatment locally and beyond. In the process, they’ll develop valuable research skills and new networks within a community hospital research setting to carry forward in their careers while contributing to the growth of the NHKI.”

Scholarship recipients will work alongside an NHKI researcher to contribute to an existing research project. They will assist with data collection, entry, validation and analysis, abstract writing, and presenting study findings or updates.

“We’re very excited to co-fund the Niagara Health Knowledge Institute – Brock University Summer Student Research Scholarship,” says Brock University Acting Vice-President, Research Michelle McGinn. “We value our long-running, fruitful partnership with Niagara Health and share their passion for developing students’ research skills and networks in a real-world setting.”

“Niagara College is committed to providing highly skilled, knowledgeable graduates for front-line healthcare positions that are in high demand,” says Sinéad McElhone, Niagara College Dean of Health Sciences. “Research is a foundational pillar of higher education and it adds tremendous value to the educational experience of our students. This unique opportunity will offer a Niagara College student the chance to work with a team of research scientists at the Niagara Health Knowledge Institute and explore key health issues, giving them a distinct advantage as they look ahead to a career in healthcare.”

NHKI participates in research and multi-centre clinical trials in cardiology, critical care medicine, emergency medicine, hematology and transfusion medicine, neurology, oncology and thrombosis with a commitment to improving the quality of patient care. The Knowledge Institute was launched in May 2023 with a $4-million donation from the McCall MacBain Foundation.

The Summer Student Research Scholarships will continue to be awarded annually, with NHKI and the partner institutions contributing $5,000 each to their respective student awards.

“Community partnerships are essential to the work we do at Niagara Health,” says Lynn Guerriero, Niagara Health President and Chief Executive Officer. “We’re thrilled to count Brock University and Niagara College as partners in a collective journey toward knowledge generation that will improve the quality of care for our patients, and help us to recruit and retain talented healthcare professionals.”

Students have until Thursday, March 28 to apply online for the NHKI-Brock University Summer Student Research Scholarship or the NHKI-Niagara College Summer Student Research Scholarship. More information, including application requirements and instructions, are available on the Niagara Health website.

Niagara Health is a regional healthcare provider with multiple sites and a growing network of community-based and virtual services. Our team is mad up of more than 7,300 staff, physicians and volunteers who we count on to deliver Extraordinary Caring. Every Person. Every Time. Our Accreditation of Exemplary Standing is a clear demonstration of the team’s commitment to the highest safety and quality standards. We provide a full range of acute care hospital services to the 450,000 residents of Niagara region and we are a national leader in community hospital research. Learn more at niagarahealth.on.ca.

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of more than 11,000 students from over 95 countries, who study in 130 diploma, certificate and bachelor degree programs at specialized campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara College is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world and is consistently ranked among Canada’s top 10 colleges for research funding. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

Brock University is a comprehensive institution with rich academic programs and world-class research activity. Located in Ontario’s scenic Niagara region on the traditional territory of the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabe peoples, Brock is situated in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. With about 600 full-time faculty members and researchers, Brock’s robust academic scope offers more than 70 undergraduate programs and 50 graduate programs in seven dynamic Faculties. The University’s 19,000 students come from across Canada and around the world. Brock’s renowned student experience is enriched by an emphasis on experiential education, as illustrated by community partnerships, volunteerism and one of Ontario’s largest and most successful co-op programs. Learn more at brocku.ca.

 

Media Contact:

Tiffany Mayer (she/her)

Niagara Health Communications Specialist

[email protected]

905-988-0580

Teaching Brewery steps up support for women in brewing

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Raise a glass on International Women’s Day with four new Pink Boots brews from the Niagara College Teaching Brewery.

The NC Teaching Brewery’s new student crafted Pink Boots brews – in support of women and non-binary people in the fermented beverage industry –were released just in time for International Women’s Day: Rose Wellies, Pale Moonlight American Pale Ale, Rose Parks New Zealand Pilsner and Knock Your Pink Boots Off.

The Pink Boots beers were brewed at the Teaching Brewery in January and February involving various classes of students from the Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management program as well as staff and volunteers throughout the School of Wine, Beer and Spirits.

Pink Boots brewing began at the Teaching Brewery in January with Knock Your Pink Boots Off, an 8.6% abv fruited Belgian Blonde (raspberries and passionfruit) designed by students Aiden Hole and Katelyn Buzanko which was brewed by their second semester class, a Pink Boots American Pale Ale (Pale Moonlight), designed by Brewmaster graduate Jenny Lukasiewicz and ‘Rose Wellies’ a Brut IPA recipe from Brewmaster grad and current faulty Nicola Davey – both brewed with third semester students.

On February 9, the Teaching Brewery hosted an open brew for students from various classes to brew Rose Parks, New Zealand Pilsner, which was designed by fourth semester student Noelia Melisa Quiverio Hincapie and second semester student Lina Marcel Farfan Gonzales. The Teaching Brewery also welcomed a representative from Pink Boots Canada and Yakima Chief Hops on February 9.

Pink Boots brewing continues on International Women’s Day. March 8 will be an ‘open brew day’ when students and volunteers will brew another Pink Boots beer, ‘Hazy Boots,’ designed by second-semester students Catherine Lear and Mandy Blais.

“I am super excited to be showcasing the power and talents of women in the brewing industry, be it students just starting out or even promoting those that have been paving the road forward for everyone for years,” said Catherine Lear. “I find it extremely important to not just support but showcase the many talented women in brewing. It is an underrepresented field and is at times difficult to get the recognition that is deserved.”

Nicola Davey, who participated in Pink Boots as a Brewmaster student a few years ago and now teaches current students in the program, has been supporting students with the initiative over the past couple of years by offering advice with recipe development. Davey organized Pink Boots hop rub in 2022 and 2023 which tasks Brewmaster students to complete sensory assessment on 14 different hop samples, and select, as a group, their top seven. Their favourites, along with the other Canadian brewery results, were submitted to the Pink Boots Society who worked with Yakima Chief Hops to determine the hop blend for 2023 and 2024.

This year, Davey and recent Brewmaster graduate Jenny Lukasiewicz (2023) brewed their Pink Boots beers with first semester students.

“The Pink Boots Society has been supporting women in brewing since 2014 by teaching useful skills, raising money for scholarships, and making the beer industry a real, constructive possibility for women. The educational strength of NC’s Brewmaster program and the Teaching Brewery along with the chance to participate in Pink Boots Collaboration Brew Day initiatives brings forth an exciting opportunity to unite, recognize and appreciate female brewers,” noted Davey. “I am so thrilled when our female brewers, create and brew their first commercial beers (second semester brewers).

“Their smiles and sense of accomplishment make my day which is why I stay involved.”

The NC Teaching Brewery has been involved with the Pink Boots initiative since hosting its first collaboration brew day 2020.

Brewmaster Professor Jon Downing indicated his strong support for continuing the initiative at the Teaching Brewery.

“We’re focused on awareness and invite students from all fermented beverage-based programs to participate,” he said.

“It is such a pleasure to know the students and faculty are actively engaged in keeping up this important tradition,” said Maija Saari, Associate Dean for the Division of Culinary, Tourism and Beverage Studies.

“Events that celebrate the accomplishments of women and non-binary people in the brewing and fermented beverage industries are a great way to highlight the importance of equity, diversity and inclusion and why we must persevere to create working spaces safe for all.”

Pink Boots Society Canada is a national non-profit organization helping women and non-binary people in the fermented/alcoholic beverage industry advance their careers through education.

Tammy Joho of Pink Boots Canada, joined a Pink Boots Brew Day at the Teaching Brewery on Feb 9.

“The need to support women and non-binary people, transgender women, to provide them a safe space in the industry, still exists,” she said. “We assist, inspire and encourage women.”

Several of the NC Teaching Brewery’s 2024 Pink Boots Series are now available for purchase (while supplies last) at the Teaching Brewery retail store and the Wine Visitor + Education Centre, located at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake, alongside products from NC’s Teaching Brewery, Teaching Winery, and Teaching Distillery. Visit ncteachingwinery.ca.

NC’s Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management program was launched in 2010 as the first of its kind in Canada. The award-winning, two-year program offers extensive hands-on training at an on-site, state-of-the-art Teaching Brewery to prepare students for employment in the expanding brewery, microbrewery and brewpub industries. Located at the College’s Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of more than 11,000 students from over 95 countries, who study in 130 diploma, certificate and bachelor degree programs at specialized campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara College is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world and is consistently ranked among Canada’s top 10 colleges for research funding. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

 

Media inquires, please contact:

 

Julie Greco
Communications Consultant
Cell: 905-328-2532
[email protected]

 

 

Niagara College to host DSBN’s 26th Annual Technological Skills Challenge

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On February 28, Niagara College (NC) will host 350 Niagara high school students as they compete across many different disciplines in the District School Board of Niagara’s (DSBN) 26th annual Technological Skills Challenge.

a student operates a saw in a construction lab

A high school student builds on their construction skills at the Welland Campus in 2023.

Students from 16 DSBN secondary schools will compete in 30 challenges at both the Welland Campus and the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Challenges will demonstrate students’ skills in everything from precision machining to floristry and 2D character animation to carpentry, culinary arts, plumbing, robotics, welding and more.

By participating in the challenges, students have the opportunity to explore careers in the skilled trades and technologies by completing industry-related projects, using industry-standard equipment and adhering to industry regulations. Challenges will be judged by industry mentors who will provide students with valuable feedback and the opportunity to make industry contacts.

DSBN students are well prepared for the competition as there is ample opportunity for students to find their niche in the skilled trades and technologies at DSBN. Education, preparation and training for these challenges happens during the school year through the numerous technology classes students can take in high school. Many of the students involved are Specialist High Skill Major (SHSM) students and Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) participants.

NC staff and faculty from the schools of Trades, Technology, Media, Culinary Arts, Hospitality and Tourism, and Environment and Horticulture, as well as the Career Services department, will work alongside the DSBN to help administer the challenges and give students a taste of real, hands-on experience in their chosen fields, further preparing them for successful careers in the skilled trades.

A student in a chef uniform prepares baked goods

A high school student participates in a baking challenge at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in 2023.

“Niagara College has been hosting the Technological Skills Challenge in partnership with the DSBN for nearly 10 years to provide high school students with an opportunity to further explore their interests in the skilled trades,” said Leo Tiberi, NC’s Dean, Media, Trades and Technology. “The competition helps students develop their skills through hands-on challenges supported by our faculty, who hope to inspire these students to become the next generation of skilled workers.”

“DSBN students have been working with our highly skilled technology teachers, and now have the opportunity during these Challenges to enhance and build on their skills,” said Roy Smith, DSBN Technology and SHSM Consultant. “Students can apply problem solving techniques, leadership abilities, and creative ideas to real-world applications on their way to successful careers in the skilled trades.”

Gold medalists from the DSBN Skills Challenge will advance to the Skills Ontario Competition (SOC) which will be held May 6th and 7th at the Toronto Congress Centre. Gold medalists at the SOC will become part of Team Ontario and will have the opportunity to compete at the Skills Canada National Competition (SCNC), held this year in Quebec City during the last week of May.

Media interested in attending the Skills Challenge are asked to contact Elyse Howarth, Communications Consultant at [email protected] to arrange a time and location.

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of more than 11,000 students from over 95 countries, who study in 130 diploma, certificate and bachelor degree programs at specialized campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara College is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world and is consistently ranked among Canada’s top 10 colleges for research funding. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

The District School Board of Niagara (DSBN) is the largest public school board in Niagara. The DSBN serves over 43,000 elementary and secondary students across the Niagara region. The DSBN is committed to ensuring all students have the individual support and encouragement they need to become successful in school. For more information, visit https://www.dsbn.org/programs-services/tech-ed/home

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Media inquiries, please contact:

Elyse Howarth
Communications Consultant
Niagara College
Cell: 905-329-4910
[email protected]

For media inquiries to speak with DSBN students or teachers, please contact:

Milica Petkovic
Senior Manager, Communications and Public Relations
District School Board of Niagara
Office: 905.641.1550 ext. 54162
Cell: 289.219.4302
[email protected]

Chef Signature Series returns to Benchmark March 16: NC to welcome Fogo Island Inn Chef Timothy Charles

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Niagara College’s Signature Chef Series is back by popular demand and its first guest chef for 2024 will bring the tastes of Canada’s East Coast to Benchmark just in time for St. Patrick’s Day.

On Saturday, March 16, the legendary dinner series will kick off with Executive Chef Timothy Charles from the award-winning Fogo Island Inn in Newfoundland. A member of the world-renowned group Relais & Châteaux, Fogo Island Inn, a community-owned social business, is built on the principles of sustainability and respect for nature and culture. As contemporary interpreters of Fogo Island’s history and traditions, Fogo Island Inn’s culinary team innovates with hyper-local produce and seafood and pays homage to traditional outport Newfoundland foodways.

The Signature Chef Series, which debuted in 2014, brings guest chefs to Benchmark, at the College’s Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake, home to the College’s trailblazing Culinary, Tourism and Beverage Studies Division.

“The Signature Chef Series is a fantastic opportunity to bring in leading culinary professionals from Ontario, Canada and around the world to work side by side with our students and staff,” said Craig Youdale, Dean of NC’s Culinary, Tourism and Beverage Studies Division. “The series also provides a great opportunity to invite in our community to experience these chefs from places and famous operations that they might not get a chance to experience and enjoy the campus and our world-famous hospitality.”

Chef Charles will be the culinary talent behind a ticketed dinner event in Benchmark on March 16. Guests will enjoy a seven-course journey through some of his signature dishes, featuring traditional Newfoundland ingredients such as a salt fish croustade with bakeapple and parsley, snow crab toast with chanterelle, bone marrow, and crabapple, cod prepared with sunchoke, foie gras, chicories, a kelp creampuff, sea buckthorn tartlets, and more.

“It’s always rewarding to be able to cook with culinary arts students,” said Chef Timothy Charles. “Their budding passion for our craft is restoring. Niagara College’s commitment to excellence is exemplified by the renewal of their Guest Chefs Series, which we are honoured to help them relaunch.”

In addition to working alongside students for the dinner event, Chef Charles will visit the College’s senior culinary students, reaffirming Fogo Island Inn’s commitment to attracting and growing top talent in Canada.

“It’s a chance for our students to connect with additional points of view from leading chefs working in the industry,” said Youdale. “They will hear presentations about style, approach and philosophy from our visiting chefs as well as creating a networking opportunity for our students to connect to the industry leaders and also perhaps opportunities to work.”

Tickets are now available for the March 16 dinner event ($175 plus taxes and fees). Tickets may be purchased via Eventbrite here.

The Chef Signature Series is expected to continue in fall 2024.

NC’s Culinary, Tourism and Beverage Studies division, includes three distinct schools of study: Culinary Arts; Wine, Beer and Spirits; and Hospitality and Tourism.

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of close to 11,000 students from over 95 countries, who study in 130 diploma, certificate and bachelor degree programs at specialized campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara College is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world and is consistently ranked among Canada’s top 10 colleges for research funding. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

 

 

TOP PHOTO: eFogo Island Inn has an international reputation for exceptional, embodied, place-specific hospitality and bold, thoughtful, humanistic contemporary design. (Source: fogoislandinn.ca)

(Photo credit: Alex Fradkin)

 

Media inquires, please contact:

Julie Greco
Communications Consultant
Cell: 905-328-2532
[email protected]

 

Team Wine or Team Beer: Who will break the tie at NC’s Caps, Corks and Forks?

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Currently tied at eight wins each, Niagara College’s Caps, Corks and Forks competitors are heading into this year’s event especially eager to prove they have the best pairing skills to complement an elegant feast prepared by students from the School of Culinary Arts.

The event will take place on the evening of Feb. 24. It will be the 17th time students from the College’s wine program (Team Wine) will face off against students from the Brewmaster program (Team Beer) at NC’s Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake, but it will be the first time culinary students have prepared the menu as their final exam, said Craig Youdale, Dean, Culinary, Tourism and Beverage Studies.

“It happens to be (that) the score is (tied) eight to eight for beer and wine, which always makes it fun, so this is going to be a bit of a tiebreaker,” Youdale said. “But I think the biggest change is now the food, which always used to be a volunteer opportunity for (culinary) students. It’s now an actual final exam for the students, which makes even more excitement.”

Hors d’oeuvres will be served at the reception ahead of the five-course meal. During this time, guests can sip cocktails created by Artisan Distilling students. The beer and wine pairings will come with each course of the meal, including dessert prepared by Baking and Pastry Arts students. Guests will vote for their preferred pairing after each dish with a cap (beer) or a cork (wine).

“It’s an experience like no other for everyone. It’s just so unique,” said Youdale. “As [NC President] Sean [Kennedy] always says, ‘it’s only at NC.’ It truly is. There’s just no other place that can do this.”

For Victor Oliveira, Manager, Catering and Special Events, this year marks his first Caps, Corks and Forks competition. He’ll oversee the Hospitality and Tourism students who will present the meal to more than 200 guests.

“I’m excited to see the development of our students from both (the) back and front of the house presenting their skills to such a prestigious event,” Oliveira said, adding that by grading the culinary students on their work, it “makes things a lot more exciting.”

Students from the Winery and Viticulture Technician program are working to select the perfect pairing to win the upcoming Caps, Corks and Forks event and break the tie.

Professor Gavin Robertson, who leads Team Wine, said he’s looking forward to seeing the pairings that students come up with.

“Our Winery and Viticulture students have been scouring the peninsula looking for the perfect VQA wines to complement the incredible dishes being prepared by our culinary students,” he said. “Our role as coaches is to help guide the process, but this is primarily a student-led process that gives them an opportunity to refine their tasting and pairing knowledge and skills in a fun, collaborative way outside of the normal curriculum.”

A team of students from the Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management program prepare to battle Team Wine for the most guest votes at Caps, Corks and Forks.

Professor Adrian Popowycz, who’s leading Team Beer, said his team is feeling confident.

“We have a remarkable team of students and faculty assembled this round,” he said. “All the beers and wines need to be Ontario sourced. We are fortunate to have students with stellar knowledge of locally brewed beers and we are feeling really good about the pairings to date.”

Meanwhile, Artisan Distilling Program coordinator Andrea Fujarczuk said it’s been difficult for the coaching team to pick which cocktails should be showcased at Caps, Corks and Forks.

“Students from both cohorts of Artisan Distilling — as well as Business Beverage Management — have submitted cocktails under three different categories in hopes to be featured,” she said. “The coaching team is in the process of finalizing the winners of each category, who will then compete for the title of the best of the best at the event. It’s been tough to make a decision with so many great entries, but we’re up to the challenge!”

All tickets to the highly-anticipated event have already been sold, Youdale said. “All (of) the other 16 (Caps, Corks and Forks events) have sold out well in advance. (It’s) a good problem to have and something that usually happens with this event, but it happened really quickly this year.”

Caps, Corks and Forks is one of the most highly anticipated series of events from the College’s Culinary, Tourism and Beverage Studies division. NC’s Culinary, Tourism and Beverage Studies division includes three distinct schools of study: Culinary Arts; Wine, Beer and Spirits; and Hospitality and Tourism. Find out what’s next on the menu, and get the latest information about upcoming pop-ups, festivals and ticketed dining events at niagaracollege.ca/culinaryarts/culinaryservices/.

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of close to 11,000 students from over 95 countries, who study in 130 diploma, certificate and bachelor degree programs at specialized campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara College is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world and is consistently ranked among Canada’s top 10 colleges for research funding. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

TOP PHOTO: Second-year Culinary Management students in their final term will be preparing an elegant menu for Caps, Corks and Forks. The experience will serve as their final exam.

A group of student volunteers from the Baking and Pastry Arts program will be preparing dessert for the event.

 

 

Media inquires, please contact:

Julie Greco
Communications Consultant
Cell: 905-328-2532
[email protected]

Sweet success for Niagara pastry chef, professor Catherine O’Donnell hand-picked as juror for World Chocolate Masters

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Checking email is like a box of chocolates-for Baking and Pastry Arts Program Coordinator Catherine O’Donnell – and on a day in mid-January she received the sweetest surprise.

O’Donnell learned that she had been selected as a juror for the World Chocolate Masters –known as the most thrilling chocolate competition on the planet – and she didn’t even know she was being considered for the honour.

“I was truly shocked. It’s a dream come true,” said O’Donnell, who enjoys both eating and working with chocolate. “I watch the World Chocolate Masters every year but, when I decided to become a judge, I didn’t think that was even in the equation for someone like me.”

In late May, O’Donnell will travel to the Chocolate Academy in Montreal to participate as a juror in the North America pre-selection for the World Chocolate Masters. The jury for the North American Selection consists of leaders in the industry, known for the contribution to the pastry and confectionery industry. These experts will review, taste and assess all creations.

O’Donnell was chosen as one of five jurors—and the only woman – among the distinguished judges for this event including Olivier Tribut (Canada), Michel Ernots (U.S.A), John Kraus(U.S.A.) and president of the jury Yvan Chevalier (France).

“Catherine O’Donnell’s selection as a judge signifies our commitment to diversity and excellence in the culinary world. As the only female chef on the panel, Catherine brings a unique perspective and expertise that enriches the evaluation process,” said Laurence Torcherie, Chocolate Academy Project Coordinator – Montréal. “Catherine embodies unparalleled dedication, with a career coaching and judging top pastry chefs worldwide. Her diverse roles as a business owner, professor, mentor, and coach underscore her unwavering commitment to excellence.

“Catherine’s title as Pastry Judge A, bestowed by the World Association of Chefs, highlights her remarkable contributions to the culinary world.”

National selections for the World Chocolate Masters for Canada and the United States will take place on May 29 to 30, 2024 in Montreal ahead of the world final in 2025.

O’Donnell, who has been teaching at Niagara College since 2015 and is currently Professor and Program Coordinator of NC’s Baking and Pastry Arts program, has been making her mark as a world-class pastry chef in Nagara and beyond.

The Niagara-on-the-Lake resident is widely known as the talent behind Willow Cakes and Pastries. She is well known for creating exquisite wedding cakes, providing delicious desserts to the area’s finest restaurants, and offering a selection of unique breads and delectable cakes and pastries.

She has worked as Pastry Chef in Toronto for Oliver-and Bonacini, the King Edward Hotel, and in Niagara for the Vintage Hotels, Hillebrand’s Vineyard Café, and Peller Estates Winery Restaurant.

Just a couple of years ago, O’Donnell was one of just five chefs inducted into the Canadian Culinary Federation Honour Society on June 15 during the Federation’s national conference in Saskatoon and one of few women to hold the esteemed title Pastry Chef A.

In 2016, O’Donnell was part of the coaching crew behind Junior Culinary Team Canada , which captured a gold and silver medal at the Culinary Olympics in Erfurt, Germany. She also coached the senior team.

Later, she earned the title of Certified International Judge from the World Association of Chefs’ Societies, recognizing her as a senior-level culinary professional with advanced judging experience.

Despite her accomplishments, O’Donnell doesn’t consider herself to be among the world’s elite pastry chefs. Even with a successful career spanning more than 40 years, she has seen how both women and pastry chefs can be overlooked in the industry.

“Nobody ever knows the pastry chef at a restaurant, male or female,” she said. “But behind every great chef is a great pastry chef.”

O’Donnell is currently writing a book which sheds light on the life of a pastry chef that the public rarely sees.

“People don’t realize how hard we work. Every holiday,” she said. “They don’t see what we sacrifice and what our kids sacrifice.”

These days, O’Donnell is as passionate about teaching as she is about baking and the pastry arts.

“You get to teach somebody what you love to and make a difference in their lives,” she said. “It doesn’t get better than that

“Chef Catherine has dedicated a lot of time and effort to become a top level international judge and its exciting she can share her expertise with future chocolate champions,” said Craig Youdale, Dean of NC’s Culinary, Tourism and Beverage Studies division. “Having one of our faculty involved in the judging of such a prestigious event is a testament to the quality and dedication of our faculty.”

O’Donnell hopes to inspire her students so they may someday enter a global competition like the World Chocolate Masters.

“I think this will open doors for other women in Canada to actually see that they can get there,” she said.

Catherine O’Donnell guides NC Baking and Pastry Arts in chocolate flower-making at NC’s Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake, home of the College’s School of Culinary Arts.

Press releases 2020 | Chocolate Academy™ World Chocolate Masters

Photo

Catherine O’Donnell guides NC Baking and Pastry Arts in chocolate flower-making at NC’s Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake, home of the College’s School of Culinary Arts.

 

Media inquires, please contact:

Julie Greco
Communications Consultant
Cell: 905-328-2532
[email protected]

Niagara College’s four-day Career Fair begins February 5

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Local job seekers can explore exciting job opportunities and network with potential employers at Niagara College’s Career Fair this February.

The College’s largest career event of the year will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Feb. 5 and 6 at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake and on Feb. 7 and 8 at the Welland Campus.

Hosted by the College’s Career and Co-op Services department and Community Employment Services, Career Fair is open to NC students, alumni and community members who can meet a wide variety of employers from the Niagara region and beyond. Registration is not required for job seekers to attend Career Fair.

This year, employer registration is sold out for all four days of the event, as the College will welcome 117 organizations looking to recruit for full-time, part-time, graduate, contract, seasonal and co-op positions.

“We have received a tremendous response from employers from a variety of sectors, all of which align with the programs of study which we offer our students at Niagara College,” said Dina Fox, NC’s Director, Academic Advising and Career Services, Daniel J. Patterson Campus.

“We are confident there are exciting opportunities for students to explore and pursue, no matter which stage they are at in their academic journey,” added Fox, who noted that in addition to the employers who are attending the event, employers are posting job opportunities via NC’s MyCareer portal daily.

For a list of participating employers, the positions they are hiring for and the date(s) and campus location(s) they will be attending, visit: careerfair.niagaracollege.ca/employerlist/

“NC’s Career Fair is a chance for employers to recruit for talent from a pool of candidates that, along with NC students and graduates, includes community members who are searching for work,” said Gary Bruce, Manager, Community Employment Services. “Job seekers are encouraged to attend the event to network with potential employers, explore the opportunities available to them and learn about the current job market in Niagara.”

For full event details, including FAQs and campus directions, visit the Career Fair website.

Throughout the year, NC’s Career and Co-op Services department offers students a full suite of employment services, including job search resources and coaching, resume and cover letter reviews, interview practice, and workshops. The department also supports NC alumni and helps to connect employers with students seeking part-time, seasonal, or co-op work experiences, or new graduates seeking employment. Employers are encouraged to visit mycareer.niagaracollege.ca for information on how to post an opportunity or to find out more about how the Career Services team can support their hiring needs.

Funded through the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, NC’s Community Employment Services (43 Church St., St. Catharines) delivers the full suite of Employment Ontario’s Employment Services program and services. Community Employment Services supports job seekers in their journey towards employment or training, offering employment related workshops, job postings and job search resources, and also provides assistance to employers to meet their hiring needs. Visit niagaracollege.ca/ces for more information.

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of close to 11,000 students from over 95 countries, who study in 130 diploma, certificate and bachelor degree programs at specialized campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara College is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world and is consistently ranked among Canada’s top 10 colleges for research funding. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

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Media inquiries, please contact:

Elyse Howarth
Communications Consultant
905-329-4910
[email protected]

SpacesShared partners with Niagara College, University of Niagara Falls Canada to create safe and affordable homesharing option for students and older adults in Niagara region

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SpacesShared, an innovative online home-sharing platform, is excited to announce new partnerships with the University Niagara College and the University of Niagara Falls Canada to help solve the growing challenge of affordable student housing in the Niagara region.

SpacesShared is a novel homesharing technology that lets students who are looking for a safe, affordable place to stay quickly and affordably connect with older adult hosts.  Using a sophisticated algorithm and a team of people, SpacesShared matches compatible students and older adults interested in homesharing. SpacesShared was launched in 2023 as a response to the Canadian housing crisis with a solution that prioritizes connection, comfort, and community.

“This partnership with SpacesShared is an important part of Niagara College’s overall housing action plan that was announced last year,” says Niagara College President Sean Kennedy. “The College is committed to rapidly expanding housing options for students, including a commitment to break ground on a new student residence in 2024. SpacesShared offers a safe and affordable housing option and will enhance the experience of our students.”

“UNF’s focus is on building the most innovative and future-ready institution in Canada. We believe this applies to everything we do, not only academics. Partnering with SpacesShared is one part of our plan to create safe and affordable housing solutions for our incoming students,” says Cyndi McLeod, CEO of GUS Canada. “The reality is there are so many good homes out there with vacant rooms, and there are many students looking for housing – we just needed an innovator like SpacesShared to connect the dots. And this is about more than just housing – it gives our students an opportunity to build connections in the community and make a positive impact in the lives of their hosts.”

“At SpacesShared, we know that for older adults, aging in place is top of mind, and that it doesn’t take a lot to help someone stay in their home happily, safely, for longer,” said Rylan Kinnon, CEO of SpacesShared. “We urge older adults with a room to spare to learn how easy it is to support aging in place with the help of SpacesShared.”

By considering factors ranging from hobbies to lifestyle preferences, and field of study, the platform creates more than just a living arrangement; it also helps cultivate lasting and meaningful intergenerational relationships.

“We’ve had amazing and enthusiastic feedback about SpacesShared,” says Kinnon. “The stories we’ve heard about our matches are truly inspiring. Now we are working to scale up this project and establish homesharing as one important solution to student housing needs, and as a support for older adults. We encourage older adults in Niagara to take a look and decide if homesharing is right for them.”

Become a host:

University of Niagara Falls, Niagara College and SpacesShared invite people in the Niagara Region to become part of this important program. Older adults with available space are encouraged to sign up and help students secure a comfortable living environment while benefiting from the joy of intergenerational homesharing.

People interested in becoming hosts or seeking more information should visit www.spacesshared.ca.

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About Niagara College

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of 11,000 students from over 95 countries, who study in 130 diploma, certificate and bachelor degree programs at specialized campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara College is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world and is ranked as Canada’s top research college. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

About University of Niagara Falls Canada

University of Niagara Falls Canada (UNF) is committed to cultivating an academic community that prepares graduates for leadership in a digital world. Through its professionally oriented undergraduate and graduate degrees, UNF promotes interactive and innovative educational experiences focused on careers in high-demand fields. Classes start on the downtown Niagara Falls campus this spring. Find out more at unfc.com.

About SpacedShared

SpacesShared is a homesharing technology platform that empowers two key groups to meet each other: older adults and students. Launched in 2023, SpacesShared is responding to the Canadian housing crisis with a solution that prioritizes connection, comfort, and community. Students looking for a safe, affordable place to stay can now quickly and affordably connect with older adult hosts who would like some extra income, help around the house, and an opportunity to give back. The platform is entirely self-contained from application, to agreement, rent and relationship management on its website. It’s a new way to honour an old tradition: opening homes to people and experiences that enrich lives and communities.

For more information about homesharing through SpacesShared, or to register for a free account as a host or a student, visit spacesshared.ca.

Teaching Brewery crafts success at Ontario Brewing Awards

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Gold and silver bells are ringing for the Niagara College Teaching Brewery after winning two new medals at the recent Ontario Brewing Awards: a gold for Beer 101 Bock (Amber Malty European Lager category) and a silver for Beer 101 Strong Ale (Strong British Ale category).

“Our trailblazing Teaching Brewery continues to raise the bar for the industry,” said Steve Gill, General Manager of NC’s Learning Enterprises. “The biggest winners are our students, thanks to the quality of applied education at NC, and, in turn, they bring their skills and knowledge into the industry.”

The two award-winning beers are from the Teaching Brewery’s popular Beer 101 series and have won multiple national and international awards.

Brewmaster Professor Jon Downing noted the fact that both Beer 101 Bock and Beer 101 Strong Ale have previously won golds in other national and international competitions highlights the consistency and quality of brewing education that students gain at NC.

“When the same brews win when brewed by different people – that’s something that all our students and graduates can be proud of,” he said.

He also applauded the fact that several alumni from NC’s Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management program represented breweries from across Ontario at the awards ceremony.

“The best thing about the Ontario Brewing Awards was seeing so many of our NC Brewmaster graduates  on stage and accepting awards,” said Downing, noting that many winning breweries employ alumni from the College’s Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management program.

NC Brewmaster grad (2022) Adam Marshall, Assistant Brewer and an instructor at the Teaching Brewery, noted that NC Brewmaster graduates were well represented at the industry event.

“I knew about 10 people and they were all grads during my time here. So even fresh grads in the industry are working their way up enough that they’re sent on behalf of their brewery,” he said.

Marshall pointed out that numerous current NC students have worked on the Teaching Brewery’s latest award-winning beers.

“It’s a testament to the program that different classes of students keep on producing award-winning beers, he said. “The Teaching Brewery runs like a well-oiled machine.”

Third-term Brewmaster student Mike Koski takes pride in the Teaching Brewery’s success.

“I brag to people all the time that our beers win medals,” he said. “I’ve met some of the best brewers in Ontario and I’ve learned from some really interesting people.”

Aaron Spinney, who was among NC’s historic first class of Brewmaster graduates in June 2012, is now at the helm of his own craft brewery: Merit Brewing Co. in downtown Hamilton. Merit won gold in the Specialty Beer category for Happy Place – one of the wine hybrids that are a focus at the brewery, which aims to blur lines for the beer and wine. The winning beer focuses on Cab Franc grapes and vines.

“It seems like a lifetime ago that I went to Niagara College, so much so that we have employed three graduated students ourselves here at Merit. I feel like the old cheerleader rooting for everyone else now,” said Spinney.

Brewmaster grad (2017) Christian Hand, Head Brewer at Orillia-based Couchiching Craft Brewing Co., was thrilled about his Black River Stout securing gold for the second year in a row as well his Atherley Pale Ale winning a silver at the Ontario Brewing Awards.

“Niagara College has been a very important part of my life and professional journey,” said Hand. “I credit much of my success to the education I received there.”

Hand was a wine student at the College when he became interested in the Brewmaster program through his participation in an interdisciplinary ‘wine versus beer’ dinner event, Caps, Corks and Forks – and he enrolled in the Brewmaster program a few years later after shifting his focus to beer.

“At that time, I was only 19 and had limited knowledge of craft beer,” said Hand. ”However, that event opened my eyes to the incredible world of beer and the artistic freedom it offered in creating unique brews.”

Hand noted that the relationships he fostered at the College have been instrumental to his professional journey.

“It’s been rewarding collaborating with fellow graduates, post-graduation,” Hand said. “I was particularly proud to share the stage with my former boss, Andrew Bartle, also a grad [Class of 2012], at this year’s Canadian Brewing Awards, where we both received awards for our stouts.”

“Niagara College continues to play a significant role in shaping successful brewers, and I am proud to be a part of that legacy.”

The Ontario Brewing Awards held its 2023 awards ceremony on December 5 at Niagara College’s Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on the Lake.

The medals cap off a successful year for the Teaching Brewery. NC was named Grand National Champion at the 2023 U.S. Open College Beer Championship, where all five unique small batch beers entered by NC Brewmaster students won medals: two gold medals, two silvers, and one bronze. At the U.S. Open Beer Championship, the NC Teaching Brewery’s Beer 101 Bitter and Beer 101 Strong also won silver medals. .

NC’s Teaching Brewery opened in April 2011 – months following the launch of the College’s Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management program in 2010. Both the program and the Teaching Brewery were the first in Canada. The award-winning, two-year program offers extensive hands-on training at an on-site, state-of-the-art Teaching Brewery to prepare students for employment in the expanding brewery, microbrewery and brewpub industries. Located at the College’s Daniel J. Patterson in Niagara-on-the-Lake, students learn from award-winning faculty and have access to on-site hop yard and local farm products to brew a full range of beer styles. Visit ncteachingbrewery.ca.

Both Beer 101 Bock and Beer 101 Strong Ale are available for purchase alongside student-crafted products from NC’s School of Wine Beer and Spirits, at the Wine Visitor + Education Centre (Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake) and online at ncteachingwinery.ca.

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of close to 11,000 students from over 95 countries, who study in 130 diploma, certificate and bachelor degree programs at specialized campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara College is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world and is consistently ranked among Canada’s top 10 colleges for research funding. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

 

Media inquires, please contact:

Julie Greco
Communications Consultant
Cell: 905-328-2532
[email protected]

 

Niagara College named No. 1 research college in Canada in latest top-50 research colleges report

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For the second time in less than five years, Niagara College has hit the No. 1 spot for colleges in Canada for research funding, according to a special report released on December 7.

Moving up one spot from last year’s standings, Niagara College is now the No. 1 research college across Canada. This is the ninth year in a row NC has been in the top 10.

In its special report Canada’s Innovation Leaders, Research Infosource Inc. announced the rankings based on total research funding numbers for 2022. The publication includes a national study “Canada’s Top 50 Research Colleges.”

“I am exceptionally proud that Niagara College has reached the No. 1 spot in Canada and Ontario as the top research college in funding,” said NC President Sean Kennedy. “Research and innovation is a priority in the College’s Strategic Plan as it provides real-world solutions for businesses and extraordinary experiential learning opportunities for students.”

“We have truly hit our stride as the research, innovation, and development arm for many small- and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) across Ontario and the country,” Kennedy added. “Our reputation and funding from various levels of government and industry continues to grow, keeping us at the top of this list, and generating great pride for Niagara College.”

Among colleges with applied research funding in Canada, NC earned the No. 1 spot by attracting more than $32 million in research support to conduct innovative projects with industry partners in the food and beverage, advanced manufacturing, horticulture and environment sectors, as well as on business and commercialization. In the category of completed research projects, NC finished No. 1 for complete research projects at a mid-size college with a total of 208, while NC’s total number of research partnerships was 222, ranking No. 3.

“To say we are pleased about reaching the No. 1 spot in Canada and Ontario is an understatement,” said Marc Nantel, PhD, Vice President – Research, Innovation & Strategic Enterprises. “I am so proud of all our staff, faculty, researchers, and students who helped make this happen and work, day in and day out, to provide innovative solutions for industry partners.”

“This announcement also gives Niagara businesses the confidence that, when working with Niagara College, they are partnering with the top research college across the country.”

“Niagara College leapt into first place nationally this year on research income and also holds first place in research intensity,” noted Rob Freedman, CEO, Research Infosource. “Equally impressive is the high number of completed research projects. Clearly, the focus on research of Niagara’s faculty, students and administration is showing itself.”

Research funding enables the College to partner with SMEs in the region to conduct projects and services, which provide innovative solutions for industry, including producing and testing prototypes, evaluating new technologies, and developing new or improved products and processes. NC conducts applied research, technical services and business and commercialization solutions with industry partners through its Business & Commercialization Innovation Centre, Food & Beverage Innovation Centre, Horticultural & Environmental Sciences Innovation Centre, and Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre.

Across all four Innovation Centres, NC pairs industry partners with highly qualified and experienced staff researchers, faculty, recent graduates, and students with the expertise to meet applied research and innovation needs in many areas. Students gain real-world experience and professional development while networking directly with industry partners.

In addition, Niagara College leads two multi-institution networks, Greenhouse Technology Network and the Southern Ontario Network for Advanced Manufacturing Innovation, capable of addressing industry challenges in technologies related to greenhouse operations, and in advanced manufacturing.

Miski Brewing (the sister company of Miski Organics) is proud to be certified gluten-free, organic, vegan and kosher – the first beer to do this in North America.

Already a previous client with the Food & Beverage Innovation Centre (FBIC), having had the team work on Miski Organics products like their vegan pancake mix and Maca Cacao Blend, Ricardo Irivarren, Co-founder of Miski Organics and Miski Brewing, knew the team would be able to help him bring his dream of this quinoa-based beer into reality.

Ricardo asked the FBIC team, led by Ana Cristina Vega-Lugo, PhD, Scientific Manager, and Adrian Popowycz, Research Lead, if they could create this beer with organic quinoa, so they could have a certified gluten-free and organic product as well.

The FBIC team came up with various recipes for Irivarren and they chose their favourite. They also helped Irivarren learn how to scale-up production and understand the market. Fast forward to present day and Miski Brewing, an innovative craft brewery, has entered the Barrie craft brew market with their unique certified organic, keto-friendly, gluten-free beer made from quinoa, which caters to the growing demand for healthier and diverse beer options.

“It’s a groundbreaking project. The process, the standards, the way we developed the recipe is all unique,” said Irivarren “Working with the College was crucial because they were the first ones to encourage us to dream. They took on the challenges I gave them and have really helped us to create the product we have right now. They’re a great part of our story,” he added.

Not only is this product a Canadian success story, but after working on the FBIC team from 2019 to 2021, Irivarren hired two R&I NC alumni to join the Miski Brewing team – Head Brewer Daniel Fonseca and Operations Manager Rodrigo Ribeiro.

Research Infosource annually compiles listings of the Top 50 research universities, corporate R&D spenders, and research hospitals. This is the eleventh year a list has been released for the Top 50 research colleges in Canada. For more information on the Top 50 list, visit researchinfosource.com.

NC’s award-winning Research & Innovation division administers research funding through investments from various regional, provincial, and federal agencies. Students and graduates are hired to work alongside faculty and staff researchers to assist industry partners’ leap forward in the marketplace. Students come from a variety of the College’s programs, such as the Commercial Cannabis Production Program, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Culinary Innovation and Food Technology, Business Administration – Marketing, and Computer Programmer.

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of close to 11,000 students from over 95 countries, who study in 130 diploma, certificate and bachelor degree programs at specialized campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara College is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world and is consistently ranked among Canada’s top 10 colleges for research funding. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

 

Media inquires, please contact:

 

Michael Wales
Director, Communications
Cell: 905-328-4101
[email protected]

Julie Greco
Communications Consultant
Cell: 905-328-2532
[email protected]