Niagara College Public Relations grads recognized with industry awards

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Two recent Niagara College graduates have been recognized for their outstanding contributions to the Public Relations profession by the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS)-Hamilton.

Naomi Fox and Bhrigu Bagga, who both graduated from NC’s Public Relations graduate certificate program in June, were nominated by their peers for their exceptional leadership in the field and presented with Special Awards during CPRS Hamilton’s Pinnacle Awards at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Hamilton, June 18.

Fox received the Heather J. Pullen Memorial Award, which is presented annually to a graduating student member of CPRS-Hamilton who has demonstrated a commitment to lifelong learning through academic and professional pursuits.

Bagga’s Student Award of Excellence is in recognition of his ability to demonstrate a clear understanding of PR, actions and behaviour that reflect professionalism, leadership in personal and scholastic activities, and a commitment to the future of the PR profession.

“The Student Award of Excellence presented to Bhrigu Bagga and the Heather J. Pullen Memorial Award presented to Naomi Fox reflect the hard work and dedication of these two emerging PR professionals and the high calibre of education they received at Niagara College,” said Kim Zarzuela, Chair of Communication for CPRS-Hamilton. “We look forward to seeing all that they will accomplish as they join the PR and Communications industry, and (we) hope they will continue to be a part of CPRS-Hamilton to take advantage of the unique professional development, networking and recognition opportunities our organization provides.”

Fox and Bagga join a long list of NC alumni who have been recognized by CPRS-Hamilton, including Emily Zwart (2023), Sophia Cole (2022), Nicolas Mertens (2021), Ashlan MacDonald (2020), Katie McCabe and Shianne Stephens (2019), who all received Student Awards of Excellence. The Heather J. Pullen Memorial Award was last awarded to an NC grad (Rita Stranges) in 2021.

Fox, who also won the Notified Student Award of Excellence from the CPRS at its National Conference in Quebec on June 11, said it was a guest lecture from CPRS-Hamilton Board member Andrew Macklin that led to her joining the organization.

“I’m grateful that NC introduced my peers and I to this impactful community and am proud to be accepting this award, honouring my commitment to integrity, honesty and the ethical practice of public relations,” she said.

Bagga said the recognition means a lot to him, particularly as an international student now trying to start a career in communications. He gave credit to his NC instructors and his CPRS mentor, CPRS-Hamilton President and fellow Niagara College alumnus Ryan Strang, for showing him how to apply theory to practice.

“Because of them, I was able to solidify my understanding of Communications and Public Relations principles, combined with creativity, strategic thinking and professionalism,” he said.

Bagga was also this year’s recipient of NC’s Associate Dean Award of Excellence in the PR program.

Charles Kopun, Associate Dean of the School of Media, said Fox and Bagga’s success shines a light on the quality of the College’s Public Relations program.

“What a great achievement for Naomi and Bhrigu!” Kopun said. “Continued recognition of our students at this competition is a testament not only to their hard work but also to the commitment of our faculty and instructors in nurturing that excellence.”

NC alumni bite into nostalgia and reconnect at Dental Hygiene reunion

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A group of people, eight people standing in the back and five people kneeling in the front, standing in front of a window and sign that reads "120,000 alumni strong."

On June 21, Alumni Relations hosted a Dental Hygiene alumni reunion, marking one of the first-ever program-specific alumni reunions at NC. This gathering was more than just a reunion; it was a heartfelt homecoming for 15 alumni from the Dental Hygiene program class of 2004, who came from near and far to reconnect with their NC family and brush up on their shared academic journey.

Dental Hygiene Alumni revisited their old classrooms and lecture halls at the Welland Campus.

The idea for the reunion sparked from a Facebook group where the alumni expressed interest in reuniting and revisiting the Dental Clinic that was once their training ground. Alumna Jenny Gibson took the lead in bringing the group offline, reaching out to Alumni Relations, and collaborating with Alumni Engagement Officer Tom Price to coordinate the day’s events.

Alumni traveled from various corners, with some driving several hours and one taking a flight, to return to their alma mater. Some stayed overnight at The Daniel J. Patterson Campus Residences, ready to rekindle old friendships and reminisce about their days at NC.

The reunion began in the morning at the Welland Campus where alumni mingled over refreshments and pastries at The Core. The group then toured campus, walking through the same hallways and classrooms where they formed special bonds, honed their skills, and studied tirelessly to achieve their academic and career goals. They also witnessed the renovations and new additions to campus, amazed at the evolution of their old stomping grounds.

“The college has changed so much,” said Gibson in awe of the campus’ advancements. “NC was a great place when I studied here, but I am impressed at how far it’s come with all the new programming and the advanced learning environments it offers students.”

A group of people standing in a dental clinic, smiling and posing for photo.

Alumni revisited the Dental Clinic where they spent many hours studying and honing their skills through their hands-on learning experience at NC.

For alumna Cheryl Reigling, the tour was an opportunity to see the college through a new lens, as her own children are preparing to embark on their post-secondary journeys.

“I’ve been touring post-secondary institutions with my children who will be soon heading off to school,” she said. “I really wanted to see what supports and services the College has to offer, and I’m quite impressed.”

A highlight of the Welland Campus tour was a visit to the Dental Clinic. A sense of nostalgia filled the air as the group approached the clinic, its familiar scent reaching them from around the corner and bringing back vivid memories of their days as NC students. Inside, the alumni revisited the lab equipment and tools that supported their hands-on learning experiences and helped shape them into the dental hygienists they are today.

A special moment was shared among five close friends from the group: Christina Mitas, Jennifer Nero-Visca, Nora Garas, Sava Pijanovic and Lori Spinello. Their friendship, formed during their NC years, has remained strong over the past two decades, and they were thrilled to return to the place where their bond began.

A group of five people in graduation gowns.

Dental Hygiene alumni, Christina Mitas, Jennifer Nero-Visca, Nora Garas, Sava Pijanovic and Lori Spinello, at their NC convocation ceremony in 2004.

“The best part of NC is you guys,” Garas said to her friends. “Twenty years later and here we are, not many people can say they’re still this close with the friends they met at college. You are not just my acquaintances, but some of the closest friends in my life.”

Reflecting on their education, Garas also noted the exceptional quality of the Dental Hygiene program.

“Even though the program was challenging, the education NC provided prepared me for my career, and I felt more than confident on my first day as a hygienist,” she said.

A group of five people standing and posing for photo.

Twenty years later, the five friends reunited at NC’s Welland Campus where their lifelong friendship first began.

The reunion concluded with a lunch and a visit to NC’s Wine Visitor + Education Centre at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus, where alumni got to enjoy the unique offerings from the College’s Learning Enterprises.

NC alumni interested in organizing their own reunion can contact Alumni Relations at niagaracollege.ca/alumnirelations/benefits/oncampus/.

Mack Training School Alumni Association delivers $25,000 endowment gift for NC nursing students

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From training space to technology, a lot has changed over the last 50 years in the way training is delivered to nursing students at Niagara College.

Members of the Mack Training School Alumni Association, who toured NC’s nursing labs at the end of May, saw many of those changes first-hand after presenting a $25,000 endowment gift to Niagara College for scholarships that will support the future of nursing.

The Mack School of Nursing was founded in 1874 by Dr. Theophilus Mack in St. Catharines and was Canada’s first nursing school. It was inspired by the Florence Nightingale system of nursing education, which emphasized hygiene, medicine, and discipline. Nurses from London, England, came to Niagara to train the first class of graduates, and over the years the school produced many nurses who worked primarily at the St. Catharines General Hospital and contributed to the advancement of the nursing profession.

In 1969, when the provincial government closed all hospital-based nursing schools and moved them to community colleges, the school changed its name to the Mack Centre of Nursing Education and its affiliation with the alumni association ended.

The school officially closed in 1973 when it became a part of Niagara College.

Over the years, the alumni association – founded in 1901 by Margaret Hughes (Class of 1896) – has offered financial support to students, graduates, the residences, and the St. Catharines General Hospital.

Its final donation came on May 29 when president Betty Ann Chandler (Class of 1970) and several other alumnae visited Niagara College’s Welland Campus to deliver a $25,000 donation that will be used for scholarships for nursing students entering either their third or final year of NC’s new Honours Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.

“We’re so grateful to the Mack School of Nursing (Alumni Association) for their interest in supporting future generations,” said Sinéad McElhone, Dean, Health Sciences. “They’ve been giving back to their community their whole lives.”

Nursing students practicing wound care engage with Mack Training School alumnae who reminisced of their own time as nursing students.

After 123 years, and with the number of remaining members declining, the alumni association disbanded on June 7. Its final annual banquet celebrated the Class of 1974 – the school’s last graduating class.

Past president Claudia Gilchrist (Class of 1973) said members wanted a lasting tribute that would honour the rich history and contributions of Mack graduates to the nursing program, so it decided to establish nursing scholarships at Niagara College and Brock University.

With about $5,000 sitting in its scholarship fund, the alumni association sent out a call to its membership in the hopes of raising more money to set up the scholarships.

“The donations came pouring in,” Gilchrist said.

As a result, Niagara College and Brock University each received $25,000. NC’s cheque was presented to McElhone and Courtney Evers, Associate Dean, School of Nursing and PSW, on May 29. The alumni association also gave the college a framed collage of photos from the early days of the Mack School of Nursing.

“We’re so honoured to host the nurses from the Mack Alumni Association,” Evers said. “We’re grateful for their generous show of support for our nursing students.”

Evers then led the group on a tour of some of NC’s nursing labs, where the alumnae engaged with nursing students who were practicing wound care.

Dr. Jeffrey Ko, who was on-site with a group of Term 4 students, also gave an impromptu presentation on NC’s nursing simulation lab.

“It’s an amazing place,” Chandler said at the tour’s conclusion. “It’s huge – it’s mindblowing. Students are very lucky to be educated here.”

The alumni association’s donation will be used to provide a $1,000 scholarship each year in perpetuity to one student in the Honours Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.

Today: Attend the first-ever Employee Alumni Summer Celebration!

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employee alumni celebration promo poster

Today is NC’s first-ever Employee Alumni Summer Celebration!

Hosted by Alumni Relations, NC employees who are also NC alumni are invited to join us at the Wine Visitor + Education Centre at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus from 3 – 5 p.m. for an afternoon of fun.

The event will feature hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, and mocktails (while supplies last), and it’s a great opportunity to connect with your peers and alumni colleagues.

If you haven’t already, please RSVP by emailing [email protected].

We look forward to seeing you there.

College operations for mid-term break and Canada Day

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June 24 to June 28 is mid-term break week at Niagara College, followed by the Canada Day holiday on Monday, July 1. Please note the following hours for college operations, services and learning enterprises during the week.

Wine Visitor + Education Centre: The Wine Visitor + Education Centre, retail store, patio and indoor service will remain open with regular hours of operation during the mid-term break week (June 24 – 28) and Monday, July 1 from Monday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

NC Teaching Greenhouse: The Teaching Greenhouse will remain open with regular hours of operation during the mid-term break week (June 24 – 28) from Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will be closed on Monday, July 1.

Campus access: Both campus exterior doors will be locked on Monday July, 1 and will reopen on Tuesday, July 2 at 6 a.m.  Should you require access to either campus, you must contact Security 905-735-2211 ext.6999 or email [email protected]. Access to either facility will be at the discretion of security, or as previously communicated.

Athletics & Recreation: Both campus fitness centres and gymnasiums will be open with reduced hours from Monday, June 24 to Thursday, June 27, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and will be closed on June 28 to July 1.

Bookstores: During the mid-term break week break (June 24 – 28), the Daniel J. Patterson Campus bookstore will be closed and the Welland Campus bookstore will remain open from Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Both campus bookstores will be closed on Monday, July 1.

Community Employment Services: (43 Church St. in St. Catharines): Community Employment Services will remain open with regular hours of operation during the mid-term break week (June 24 – 28) from Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and will be closed Monday, July 1.

Enrolment Services: Enrollment Services will remain open with regular hours of operation during the mid-term break week (June 24 – 28) and will be closed on Monday, July 1. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday and 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday.

Food & Ancillary Services:

  • NCSAC cafes, The Shack (Welland Campus) and The Undergrounds (Daniel J. Patterson Campus) will remain open during the mid-term break week (June 24 – 28) from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and closed on Monday, July 1.
  • The Core will be closed during the mid-term break week and Monday, July 1.
  • The Armoury will be closed during the mid-term break week and Monday, July 1.
  • Welland Campus
    • Tim Hortons – open from Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and closed on Monday, July 1.
    • Subway – open from Monday to Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and closed on Monday, July 1.
    • Grill/Chef Inspired – open from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and closed on Monday, July 1.
    • Nourish/On the Go – open from Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and closed on Monday, July 1.
    • Pizza Pizza – open from Monday to Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and closed on Monday, July 1.
    • Tim Hortons AHI – closed.
  • DJP Campus
    • Tim Hortons – open from Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and closed on Monday, July 1.
    • Main Cafeteria including all regular services – open from Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and closed on Monday, July 1.
    • Subway – open from Monday to Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and closed on Monday, July 1.

Health, Wellness and Accessibility Services: HWAS will remain open with regular hours of operation during the mid-term break week (June 24 – 28) from Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and will be closed on Monday, July 1. Students looking for support can also access the following resources:

COAST Niagara / Mental Health and Addiction Help Line
COAST provides services to people in the Niagara Region who are in crisis and have a mental health concern. Ongoing telephone support and/or referral to appropriate follow-up services may be recommended to prevent further crisis.

Good2Talk
Good2Talk is a free, province-wide service for students in college/university and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. It provides professional counselling, mental health information and connections to local resources. Students who are concerned about student life, health or mental well-being can contact Good2Talk via:
Email: [email protected]
Web: good2talk.ca
Phone: 1-866-925-5454
Text: Text GOOD2TALKON to 686868

Indigenous Education: Indigenous Education Student Centres will remain open for in-person and online services during the mid-term break week (June 24 – 28) with regular hours of operation from Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and will be closed on Monday, July 1.

International Student Services: International Student Services will remain open with regular hours of operation during the mid-term break week (June 24 – 28) from Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and will be closed on Monday, July 1.

ncLibraries and Learning Commons: During the mid-term break week (June 24 – 28), the Welland Campus Libraries and Learning Commons will remain open from Monday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and the Daniel J. Patterson Campus Libraries and Learning Commons will remain open from Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. All services at both campuses will be closed on Monday, July 1.

NCSAC offices and Student Centres: NCSAC offices and online chat will remain open with regular hours of operation during the mid-term break week (June 24 – 28) from Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will be closed on Monday, July 1.

Student Services: Student Services will remain open with regular hours of operation during the mid-term break week (June 24 – 28) from Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and will be closed on Monday, July 1.

Teaching Salon: The Pavilion will be closed during the mid-term break week (June 24 – 28) and on Monday, July 1.

Transit: Please check the Niagara Region Transit website for the most up-to-date information and holiday schedules. Visit yourncsac.ca/yourtransit for information and Frequently Asked Questions related to student transit.

Niagara College Public Relations grad wins top national industry award

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For the third time since 2020, a Niagara College Public Relations Graduate Certificate student was recognized by the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) national office for excellence in the field.

On June 11, Naomi Fox of St. Catharines received the CPRS Notified Student Award of Excellence from the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) at the National Conference in Mont Tremblant, Quebec.

“It feels surreal to be receiving this award,” said Fox, who accepted the award virtually. “I’m very proud to be the third winner the College has had since 2020… It’s amazing to have my hard work validated, and it feels like this is a catapult for my career.”

According to CPRS, the Notified Student Award of Excellence is awarded to the student who shows a clear understanding and application of the principles of PR theory, demonstrates professionalism leadership in scholastic activities and is committed to pursuing a career in PR. The student must also demonstrate an ability to contribute to the status and acceptance of the profession.

“On behalf of all of us at Niagara College, we’re thrilled to learn of Naomi’s achievement,” said Charles Kopun, Associate Dean of the School of Media. “It must be incredibly gratifying for her to receive national recognition, underscoring her unwavering commitment to the field of Public Relations.”

“This also marks the third time since 2020 that a Niagara College PR student has achieved such a prestigious honour, a testament to the exceptional talent of our students and the dedication of our faculty to student success,” said Kopun.

CPRS National President Clair Ryan said Fox has set “an admirable example” for aspiring PR professionals in Canada.

mei”Naomi’s recognition as this year’s winner of the CPRS-Notified Student Award highlights her dedication to the public relations field,” Ryan said. “Her academic excellence, mentorship to her peers, as well as her active engagement with CPRS Hamilton, reflect her passion for the PR profession.”

Fox joins NC PR alum Nicolas Mertens and Brenna McCutheon who were awarded the CPRS Notified Student Award of Excellence in 2021 and 2023, respectively.

“It’s a pleasure to recognize Naomi’s achievements with the CPRS Notified Student Award of Excellence,” said Lisa Davis, Vice-President, Marketing at Notified. “Her passion for public relations, commitment to mentorship, and demonstrated academic excellence are evident and admirable, and we’re proud to celebrate her as a next-generation storyteller.”

It was a big week for Fox, who graduated from NC’s graduate certificate program at Spring Convocation on June 12.

Fox also holds a Bachelor of Arts from Western University in Media, Information and Technoculture.

“I came to the PR program because I felt like I had lots of theoretical knowledge but lacked the practical knowledge needed to start my career,” said Fox. “I’m a big wine lover and got to collaborate with the NC Teaching Winery in planning a successful (and delicious) Wine Maker’s Dinner. I also got to meet inspiring industry professionals on a weekly basis which has been invaluable in growing my network.”

Fox also interned at Creative Guild in Hamilton with NC alum Mertens, Senior Social Media Strategist, and Creative Director Jeff Blay (Journalism 2011; Public Relations 2015).

“Nicolas Mertens has been an immense inspiration to me as a student and budding professional, and receiving the same award,” said Fox.

“In my internship, I got to collaborate with the amazing team and worked on brands like Arby’s Canada, Turtle Jacks Muskoka grill, and WOW 1 Day Painting. I wrote copy, shot and edited content for social media, wrote and pitched a press release, and landed coverage for the agency.”

Fox is currently interning with Toronto-based PR agency Kaiser & Partners. A testament to the many NC PR grads making their mark on the industry, Fox met fellow NC alum Ray McIlroy (Public Relations, 2008), Senior Vice-President of Kaiser & Partners through mock interviews as part of her NC program.

“I hope to continue working in the agency world, and my long-term goal is to work as a digital marketing consultant!”

In addition to guidance received through the CPRS Hamilton mentorship program, Fox credits her success to PR Program Coordinator Emily McInerney who nominated her for the award.

“Emily McInenery’s dedication to the program and her students has been critical to the success of my peers and myself. I now feel fully equipped and confident in starting my career as a PR practitioner.”

Join us for the first-ever Employee Alumni Summer Celebration!

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employee alumni celebration promo poster

Alumni Relations is thrilled to announce its first-ever Employee Alumni Summer Celebration on Tuesday, June 25. If you’re both an NC employee and an NC alum, join us at the Wine Visitor + Education Centre at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus from 3 – 5 p.m. for an afternoon of fun.

The event will feature hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, and mocktails (while supplies last), and it’s a great opportunity to connect with your peers and alumni colleagues.

Please RSVP to [email protected] if you plan to attend.

All internal NC alumni, whether attending the celebration or not, are encouraged to update their contact information with Alumni Relations here.

We look forward to seeing you at the Employee Alumni Summer Celebration!

Niagara College to celebrate largest-ever graduating class at Spring Convocation, June 10 – 15

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Niagara College’s Spring 2024 Convocation is approaching with the most exciting ceremonies yet as the College celebrates a record number of 5,500 graduates. This year’s events will highlight the achievements of the Class of 2024 and honour two distinguished guests, including a prominent Niagara business leader and a notable NC alumnus and Indigenous Elder.

The Spring Convocation ceremonies will be held at Niagara College’s Welland Campus in the Simplii Financial Athletic Centre from Monday, June 10 to Saturday, June 15.

“Spring Convocation is a time of pride and celebration at Niagara College,” said Niagara College President Sean Kennedy. “We are thrilled to honour our Class of 2024 and their remarkable achievements. This year, we are particularly excited to recognize two outstanding individuals whose exemplary contributions to their fields and communities embody the welcoming, trailblazing, and passionate characteristics of NC and will inspire our graduates as they embark on their own journeys.”

Honorary Bachelor of Applied Studies – Business Administration: Wendy Wing

Wendy Wing, Senior Vice-President of Finance and Administration at Rankin Construction Inc. and Port Colborne Quarries Inc., and President of Rankin Renewable Power Inc. will be presented with an Honorary Bachelor of Applied Studies – Business Administration.

Wendy Wing, the Senior Vice-President of Finance and Administration at Rankin Construction Inc. and Port Colborne Quarries Inc., as well as President of Rankin Renewable Power Inc., will be presented with an Honorary Bachelor of Applied Studies – Business Administration. Recognized for her leadership in business and construction and her community stewardship in Niagara, she will be honoured during the ceremony on Wednesday, June 12 at 3 p.m., which celebrates new graduates from the College’s School of Technology and School of Trades.

Wing’s career at Rankin Construction spans over 30 years, during which she has led numerous real estate and renewable energy projects, including wind and hydro power developments. Her expertise in finance and administration has been pivotal in the successful completion of various heavy civil construction projects, such as roads, bridges, and marine work. Wing’s strategic role in the company involves analyzing new business opportunities and assessing their long-term financial impact.

Wing and her family are valued supporters and advocates of Niagara College, contributing to student success by funding scholarships and awards and by helping expand and improve campus so that students have the best teaching, learning, and gathering spaces. Across Niagara, Wing and her family founded the Rankin Cancer Run, which has raised millions of dollars for cancer research and support for patients. They have generously supported the Niagara Health System and many other community organizations.

Demonstrating her commitment to enhancing education, Wing was a dedicated member of Niagara College’s Board of Governors from 2016 to 2021, serving as Chair from September 2021 to August 2022 and as Vice-Chair from 2020 to 2021.

“I am deeply honoured and grateful to Niagara College,” said Wing. “I found my time on the Board of Governors enriching, and I am so excited to be back to celebrate with graduates on their special day. I wouldn’t be accepting this honour without the strength and support of our team at Rankin.”

Distinguished Alumni Award: Dave Labbé

Elder Dave Labbé, who graduated from Niagara College’s Electronics Engineering Technology program in 1971, will be presented with a Distinguished Alumni Award.

Dave Labbé, a member of the Innu from Northern Quebec, will be presented with the Distinguished Alumni Award during the ceremony on Monday, June 10 at 3 p.m., which celebrates new graduates from the College’s School of Community Services.

Labbé was part of the first class of students at Niagara College in 1967, graduating from the Electronics Engineering Technology program in 1971. Decades later, he returned to the College as an Elder, drawing on his own education to impart knowledge in a way that mirrors the unique learning he experienced as an NC student.

In 1995, Labbé became a Powwow Coordinator at the Fort Erie Native Friendship Centre, a role that aligned with his calling to help people. He eventually became the Centre’s Youth Coordinator and soon after managed the youth program full-time, dedicating his efforts to supporting young men in overcoming addictions.

Labbé’s dedication to helping others led him back to Niagara College after his retirement, this time as an Elder. In this role, he mentors students, shares wisdom, and participates in college ceremonies.

In 2023, Labbé received the Celebration of Nations Outstanding Achievement Award for Empathic Traditions, recognizing his transformative work and dedication to supporting Indigenous people within Niagara and beyond. Known as “The Eagle that Flies,” Labbé is celebrated for his ability to connect with students, make them feel at ease, and foster a sense of belonging and support.

Twelve Spring Convocation Ceremonies

NC will host 12 Spring Convocation ceremonies at its Welland Campus, marking a record number of ceremonies for the College. Ceremonies include:

  • June 10, 10 a.m. (School of Justice and Fitness and School of Allied Health)
  • June 10, 3 p.m. (School of Community Services)
  • June 11, 10 a.m. (School of Culinary Arts and School of Environment and Horticulture)
  • June 11, 3 p.m. (School of Hospitality and Tourism and School of Wine, Beer and Spirits)
  • June 12, 10 a.m. (School of Media and School of Trades)
  • June 12, 3 p.m. (School of Technology and School of Trades)
  • June 13, 10 a.m. (School of Business and Management)
  • June 13, 3 p.m. (School of Business and Management)
  • June 14, 10 a.m. (School of Nursing and Personal Support Worker, School of Academic and Liberal Studies, and School of Business and Management)
  • June 14, 3 p.m. (School of Academic and Liberal Studies and School of English Language Studies)
  • June 15, 10 a.m. (School of Nursing and Personal Support Worker)
  • June 15, 3 p.m. (School of Nursing and Personal Support Worker)

A highlight of Spring Convocation will be the presentation of the prestigious Governor General’s Academic Medals to two graduating students who have achieved the highest overall grade-point average (GPA) – one from a diploma program and another from a degree program. Additionally, thirteen graduating students will receive Dean’s Awards for earning the highest GPA within their school of study.

To view the schedule and list of programs graduating within each School, visit the ‘Ceremony Schedule’ section of NC’s Convocation website. NC’s in-person Spring Convocation ceremonies will also be livestreamed via the Convocation website and ceremonies will remain on the website for later viewing.

Staffing update: Kevin Jong joins NC as Manager, Development & Donor Relations

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A message from Shannon Boeckner, Senior Director, Development & Donor Stewardship:

I am delighted to announce that Kevin Jong will be joining NC as the new Manager of Development & Donor Relations.

Kevin brings over a decade of experience from United Way Niagara, where he has held various roles, most recently as Director of Development & Communications. He is a recognized philanthropic leader in the Niagara community.

In his new role at NC, Kevin will oversee the creation and execution of a fulsome donor stewardship and recognition program, as well as an exciting new leadership-level giving program.

Kevin has previously collaborated on NC United Way workplace campaigns and is well-known within the NC leadership community through our ongoing partnership with United Way.

We are excited to welcome Kevin, who will undoubtedly be an invaluable asset to the Advancement team.

Kevin begins his role on June 4.

Please join me in extending a warm NC welcome to Kevin Jong.

Celebrating NC alumnus Larissa Mazzarella for National Nursing Week

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May 6 – 12 marks National Nursing Week, with this year’s theme being “Changing Lives. Shaping Tomorrow.” This theme acknowledges the significant impact nurses have on individuals, communities, and the future of healthcare.

In support of Canada’s nurses this year, we are honouring one of our remarkable Niagara College Nursing alumni, Larissa Mazzarella, who graduated from the Practical Nursing program in 2021. We caught up with Larissa to learn about her current role as a Clinical Coach and her journey from a neuroscience background to nursing, and the influences that guided her along the way.

Current role and career path

Currently, I am a Clinical Coach for Behavioural Supports Ontario. I act as a consultant who aims to support Long Term Care Homes by mentoring staff and modelling of interventions and strategies for residents who express responsive beahviours. I get to know who the resident is – past, and present, and find creative ways to provide person-centered care based on best practices. All behaviour has meaning, and I work as a detective to figure out what support the resident requires through their expressions and understanding what contributing factors are at play. I do this by utilizing my specialized training, observation, completing evidence-based assessments, and working with the resident’s care partners to gather as much information as possible. I love my current role as I am able to collaborate so thoroughly with the resident, their care partners, and other healthcare professionals and I am able to always provide person-centred care and empower and educate others to do the same.

My professional history as a nurse includes working in a retirement setting, and at the Hamilton General Hospital on the Acute Stroke unit. Supporting vulnerable populations with neurological compromise has always been an interest and passion of mine. Prior to becoming a nurse I studied Neuroscience, volunteered in a Neuroscience Cognition Research Lab, and worked with clients who had Traumatic Brain Injury in a community-based rehabilitation program.

Influences and inspiration

I believe that indirectly my mother inspired me to follow a caring career. She was always so perceptive of the needs and feelings of her loved ones, and always extolled kindness, caring, and support and respect for all life as important virtues. Through her modelling and feeling the benefits of her support and unconditional love, I’ve had the space and ability to develop my own passion for caring for others, which is what drew me to becoming a nurse. I knew that health care was the area I wanted to grow my career in, but nursing was most attractive to me due to the holistic, hands-on focus of providing person-centered care. Through the support of my parents, I was able to pursue my academic interests and grow my knowledge base, making my path unique and deliberate to who I am individually.

Standout NC experience

Niagara College provided me with an extremely strong foundation to build from as a nurse. The emphasis was always on best practices, ethics, respect, and care for patients. NC’s nursing program was challenging because there were high expectations. I believe every nurse should hold themselves accountable to an extremely high standard, so these expectations were not only helpful in promoting learning but absolutely foundational in building a respect for the profession and an understanding of the level of responsibility we take on as health care professionals.

I had the pleasure of participating in an International Field Study Program at Niagara College program called “Be World Ready.” I went to India where I had the opportunity to learn about and explore their health care system and provide some support and outreach to communities in need. This was a truly unique experience and one that shaped my perspective on nursing and health care not only at home in Canada but internationally. While there were many wonderful people at NC, there were professors who influenced my NC experience very positively – not only in the content they taught, but the mentorship they provided and professionalism they exhibited: Cindy Ko, Mark Grabner, and Andrea Bodner.

Words of wisdom

My major piece of advice for anyone considering a career in nursing is that it is not easy to care for people with the energy and attention they deserve- emotionally, physically, and mentally – but it is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling paths before you. Remember to respect yourself as much as you respect your patients and to find balance in your life. NC’s Practical Nursing program has an emphasis on hands-on experience, which will provide you with the knowledge and confidence to feel prepared as a new grad.