Members of the NC community participate in NEXTNiagara’s young professional hackathon

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a group of young professionals pose for a photo in front of a branded GNCC banner

Niagara College employees, students and alumni joined a dynamic conversation around how to make the Niagara region a more livable place at a September 23 hackathon hosted by NEXTNiagara.

NEXTNiagara is an advisory council to the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce (GNCC) that empowers young professionals by representing, engaging, and amplifying the voice of Niagara’s 40 and under community.

NEXTNiagara’s ENGAGE event provides a platform for open, honest, and productive discussions between young professionals, employers and community leaders. The hackathon-style event encourages collaboration and ideation among participants who come together to brainstorm solutions to different topics that are important to the next generation.

Among the 117 participants in attendance at this year’s event was Kristen Nilsen, Academic Quality Consultant with NC’s Centre for Academic Excellence who has been volunteering with NEXTNiagara since 2020 and was appointed Chair this past Spring.

Nilsen was joined by NC colleague Mitchell Lutz, SONAMI Business Development Lead, and Hish Clifford, a third year NC Business Administration – Accounting student who works part-time in the College’s ITS department. Both Lutz and Clifford are NEXTNiagara council members. Emily O’Connor, Development Officer with NC Development and Donor Stewardship, also volunteered at the event and is a council alumna.

“This year, our topic was Livable Communities, with the goal of collecting the thoughts of young professionals working and living in Niagara around what livable communities could and should look like,” said Nilsen.

Participants discussed the different elements of a livable community including social services, diversity, sustainability, safety, and affordability, and provided solutions and recommendations for ensuring that Niagara is a place where young professionals want to live, stay and prosper.

For Clifford, who also serves on the NC Student Administrative Council Board of Directors as Director for the School of Business and Management, the event was his first hackathon since joining the council in May.

“This year’s Engage was incredible; we had great conversations among young professionals, and it was fantastic to see more established professionals and local representatives present, engaging with us in meaningful discussions,” he said. “Local organizations that are deeply invested in improving the region were also a key part of the event, which added another layer of impact.”

“I’m always so amazed by the work that NEXTNiagara and the Chamber of Commerce do,” added Clifford. “Their efforts consistently benefit young professionals, future students, and future employees of the region.”

attendees listen to a speaker at an event

Hish Clifford (centre) looks on as Mishka Balsom, GNCC CEO and former Chair of the NC Board of Governors speaks to guests at NEXTNiagara’s 2024 ENGAGE.

Nilsen says the feedback collected at the event will be compiled into a summary, which will inform NEXTNiagara’s advocacy initiatives. The information will also provide an overview of the themes that are important to young professionals in the region, which the council hopes will be a resource for decision makers in Niagara.

“Our vision is to see Niagara grow as a vibrant, inclusive, and prosperous community where the NEXT generation of leaders feel connected, represented, and engaged,” said Nilsen, speaking to the work of the council.

“We do that through our relationship with the Chamber, knowing that the graduates of post-secondary institutions in Niagara are valuable to the growth of Niagara, and are looking for opportunities to build a future in the region.”

Of the current 16 NEXTNiagara Council members, six are NC alumni, some of whom attended the event along with GNCC Membership Engagement Manager Amy Lloyd, who is a council and NC alumna (Event Management, 2016).

  • Devin Brown (Welding Techniques, 2012)
  • Bernard Cooper (Journalism, 2010)
  • Grace Howes (Public Relations, 2019)
  • Mitchell Lutz (Business Administration – International Business, 2013; Honours Bachelor of Business Admin – International Commerce & Global Development, 2015; Human Resources Management, 2021)
  • Patricia Menear (nee. Bernardo) who is the Vice-chair of the NEXTNiagara council (Public Relations, 2020)
  • Dan Prudente (Human Resources Management, 2015)

Members of the NC community participate in NEXTNiagara’s young professional hackathon

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a group of young professionals pose for a photo in front of a branded GNCC banner

Niagara College employees, students and alumni joined a dynamic conversation around how to make the Niagara region a more livable place at a September 23 hackathon hosted by NEXTNiagara.

NEXTNiagara is an advisory council to the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce (GNCC) that empowers young professionals by representing, engaging, and amplifying the voice of Niagara’s 40 and under community.

NEXTNiagara’s ENGAGE event provides a platform for open, honest, and productive discussions between young professionals, employers and community leaders. The hackathon-style event encourages collaboration and ideation among participants who come together to brainstorm solutions to different topics that are important to the next generation.

Among the 117 participants in attendance at this year’s event was Kristen Nilsen, Academic Quality Consultant with NC’s Centre for Academic Excellence who has been volunteering with NEXTNiagara since 2020 and was appointed Chair this past Spring.

Nilsen was joined by NC colleague Mitchell Lutz, SONAMI Business Development Lead, and Hish Clifford, a third year NC Business Administration – Accounting student who works part-time in the College’s ITS department. Both Lutz and Clifford are NEXTNiagara council members. Emily O’Connor, Development Officer with NC Development and Donor Stewardship, also volunteered at the event and is a council alumna.

“This year, our topic was Livable Communities, with the goal of collecting the thoughts of young professionals working and living in Niagara around what livable communities could and should look like,” said Nilsen.

Participants discussed the different elements of a livable community including social services, diversity, sustainability, safety, and affordability, and provided solutions and recommendations for ensuring that Niagara is a place where young professionals want to live, stay and prosper.

For Clifford, who also serves on the NC Student Administrative Council Board of Directors as Director for the School of Business and Management, the event was his first hackathon since joining the council in May.

“This year’s Engage was incredible; we had great conversations among young professionals, and it was fantastic to see more established professionals and local representatives present, engaging with us in meaningful discussions,” he said. “Local organizations that are deeply invested in improving the region were also a key part of the event, which added another layer of impact.”

“I’m always so amazed by the work that NEXTNiagara and the Chamber of Commerce do,” added Clifford. “Their efforts consistently benefit young professionals, future students, and future employees of the region.”

attendees listen to a speaker at an event

Hish Clifford (centre) looks on as Mishka Balsom, GNCC CEO and former Chair of the NC Board of Governors speaks to guests at NEXTNiagara’s 2024 ENGAGE.

Nilsen says the feedback collected at the event will be compiled into a summary, which will inform NEXTNiagara’s advocacy initiatives. The information will also provide an overview of the themes that are important to young professionals in the region, which the council hopes will be a resource for decision makers in Niagara.

“Our vision is to see Niagara grow as a vibrant, inclusive, and prosperous community where the NEXT generation of leaders feel connected, represented, and engaged,” said Nilsen, speaking to the work of the council.

“We do that through our relationship with the Chamber, knowing that the graduates of post-secondary institutions in Niagara are valuable to the growth of Niagara, and are looking for opportunities to build a future in the region.”

Of the current 16 NEXTNiagara Council members, six are NC alumni, some of whom attended the event along with GNCC Membership Engagement Manager Amy Lloyd, who is a council and NC alumna (Event Management, 2016).

  • Devin Brown (Welding Techniques, 2012)
  • Bernard Cooper (Journalism, 2010)
  • Grace Howes (Public Relations, 2019)
  • Mitchell Lutz (Business Administration – International Business, 2013; Honours Bachelor of Business Admin – International Commerce & Global Development, 2015; Human Resources Management, 2021)
  • Patricia Menear (nee. Bernardo) who is the Vice-chair of the NEXTNiagara council (Public Relations, 2020)
  • Dan Prudente (Human Resources Management, 2015)

Save the date: ReuKnighted ’24 to be held Nov. 2

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Niagara College is preparing to welcome alumni back to campus for an action-packed reunion this fall.

Tickets are now available for ReuKnighted ’24, which will be held on Saturday, November 2 at the Welland Campus. The family-friendly reunion is open to all NC alumni and friends.

Guests can cheer on the NC Knights with admission to four home opening games at the Simplii Financial Atheltic Centre, along with an alumni tailgate party, VIP access to The Core. and a dedicated Kids Zone.

The day kicks off with Knights basketball games against Sheridan (women’s begins at noon and men’s begins at 2 p.m.).

An exclusive ReuKnighted tailgate party will be held at The Core from 4-6 p.m., featuring delicious food from Nc’s School of Culinary Arts.

Then the fun will return to the gym with two volleyball games against Fanshawe, (women’s at 6 p.m. and men’s at 8 p.m.).

The first 100 alumni to register for ReuKnighted ’24 will receive a special gift from Alumni Relations.

Those who purchase tickets by October 26 will be automatically entered into a draw for a NC Knights-themed gift basket valued at $250,

This event has limited capacity , so alumni are encouraged to secure their tickets early.

Ticket info

Adult tickets are $10 per ticket plus fees. Ticket includes VIP access to The Core, game admission, and food (a cash bar will be available).

Youth tickets for ages 12 and under are free. Youth ticket includes VIP access to The Core, game admissions, food and kids zone.

Tickets may be purchased via Eventbrite here.

 

NC alumna finds her purpose at 39 Hers

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a woman wearing a green shirt stands next to a wall bearing the words 39 Hers

Colleen Morton has fond memories of her time at Niagara College and of the “amazing” professors who helped her make it to her graduation day in 2021.

But even more than that, Morton remembers the way being at NC made her feel.

“NC made me feel more empowered with my life and guided me to learn what I love to do,” Morton said. “I had a great experience at NC. I met great people there and my grades were in the 80s and 90s. I also did the Study Abroad program for a week in England for Pop Culture, which was amazing. (It) was the most memorable part of my experience at NC.”

It was a time of new beginnings for Morton, who–with the support of Birchway Niagara (formerly Women’s Place of South Niagara)–was rebuilding her life with her two sons after leaving a domestic violence relationship.

Initially, she planned to just get her high school diploma, but then decided to pursue a college education, too. She applied to NC’s Early Childhood Education program before realizing she was better suited to Office Administration-Health Services.

Upon graduation, Morton found work at Niagara Health-Niagara Falls site and then moved on to a chiropodist’s office where she was quickly promoted to Team Lead Medical Office Administrator. She still works there today.

But earlier this year, Morton said, she was feeling in a rut. “I needed to figure out what my purpose was.”
She decided to take a break and head to British Columbia for a visit with her sister. In the small town of Mission, she stopped by a lightly used clothing store that supports women who are fleeing an abusive partner. It was the purpose she had been looking for.

“After shopping there, it clicked,” she said. “I wanted to help my community and do the same thing at home. That was on May 26. Once the fire in my soul was lit, it took me almost three months to get everything together and ready for my grand opening.”

Morton’s Port Colborne store, 39 Hers, celebrated its grand opening on August 17. Like the store that inspired her in B.C., Morton’s helps women who are escaping domestic violence: A portion of her sales go to the organization that helped her and her sons start over–Birchway Niagara.

“Birchway was absolutely incredible and supportive,” Morton said. “I was staying at the Welland location and the staff was so loving and empathetic and really cared about us.

“Birchway helped me with getting sole custody of my children, helped me get my divorce and also helped me with housing. I did not do any of these steps alone. Without Birchway, I wouldn’t’ be the woman I am today (and) my children would not be the children they are today.”

She said her goal is for the store to be a place that women in or leaving an abusive relationship can turn to for help and support from someone who’s been in their position.

“I need women to know that there is an affordable place to get work attire, gym clothes and casual clothes. I want women to know that when they come to 39 Hers, it is a safe place with no judgment. I want them to feel empowered…to let women know that I have been there, and they can get out and there is help; it looks and feels scary, and it is, but there is a way out and I need them to know that. My plan is to make an impact and be a part of the solution and end violence against women and their children once and for all.”

Despite not having studied business, Morton said the time she spent at Niagara College taught her a valuable lesson that’s stuck with her for years and helped her as she started her entrepreneur journey: Ask for help when you need it.

“Do not give up no matter how challenging things might get,” she said. “There is no growth without the challenges and the outcome is worth all the uphill battles you experience. People are afraid to chase their dreams because they are afraid of ‘what if?’ What if it doesn’t work out? Well, I say ‘What if it does?’ And if it doesn’t, at least you tried and learned something in the process. Taking chances is never a waste of time.”

39 Hers is located at 197 Main St. W. in Port Colborne. To donate gently used women’s and children’s clothing, accessories and footwear, contact the store at 905-394-9725.

Save the date for NC’s Global Learning Lounge on September 24: International Student Life Cycle

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A promotional graphic from NC International with the text Join the next Global Learning Lounge!

Niagara College employees are invited to attend a Global Learning Lounge session on September 24 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT), facilitated by the office of International Student Services. During this online Zoom session, you will explore the international student’s life cycle.

Please join Gary Torraville, Senior Director, Global Business Development; Shawna Luey, Senior Director, International Students; and Jana Boniferro, Director, Alumni Relations as they share insights about the international student journey from recruitment to the alumni experience

Are you interested in having a better understanding of the NC life experience from an international student’s perspective? Join us for a session to learn more about the international student life cycle.

What you can expect to take away from this session: 

  •  Admissions and International Student Recruitment: Discover key strategies and insights for attracting and enrolling international students.
  • Student Application Process: Understand the step-by-step process for student applications, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience.
  • Agent Support and Training: Learn how agents are effectively supported and trained to enhance their recruitment efforts.
  • Pre-Departure and Be NC Ready: Get essential information on pre-departure sessions and training modules for Be NC Ready to help students transition smoothly.
  • Orientation and Student Engagement: Explore activities and initiatives designed to engage students from the moment they arrive.
  • Student Advising and Settlement Services: Gain valuable insights into advising and settlement services that support student success.
  • Preparation for Graduation and Convocation: Understand the necessary steps and preparations for a successful graduation and convocation experience.

Registration is not required. NC employees can join the session using the Zoom link posted to the employee portal (MyNC portal under ‘Staff Announcements’). The Zoom link will also be shared via campus notice email.

The Joyce Family Foundation’s milestone gift creates a $1.5 million bursary fund for in-demand healthcare and skilled trades students

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A woman in blue scrubs holds a medical syringe, while a man in an orange hardhat operates a wood saw.

Addressing the Healthcare and Skilled Trades Crises

As demand for healthcare professionals and skilled tradespeople continues to rise across Ontario and Canada, The Joyce Family Foundation has contributed $1.5 million to Niagara College’s Together Campaign. This generous gift will create a bursary fund, the largest endowed bursary in the College’s history, to support students pursuing these critical careers.

Beginning in fall 2025, The Joyce Family Foundation Healthcare and Skilled Trades Bursary Program will cover tuition and ancillary costs for several students from the Niagara region throughout their studies.

“We thank The Joyce Family Foundation for this landmark donation, which directly supports students entering healthcare and skilled trades professions,” said Sean Kennedy, President, Niagara College. “This long-term investment will benefit students now and into the future.”

Each year, between eight and 12 awards will be given, valued between $6,000 and $8,000. These bursaries will support students entering their first year in any program within the School of Trades, the School of Allied Health, and the School of Nursing and Personal Support Worker (PSW). Eligible students will have the opportunity to apply for funding starting in spring 2025.

“We are proud to collaborate with Niagara College to support local students in these high-demand fields,” said Maureen O’Neill, Executive Director, The Joyce Family Foundation. “The Board’s goal is to reduce the financial barriers that many students face so they can fully concentrate on their studies and career preparation.”

The Joyce Family Foundation was established by entrepreneur Ronald V. Joyce, whose philanthropic vision continues through the foundation’s support of education and youth development. The foundation’s mission is to empower young Canadians by providing access to education. At Niagara College, the Foundation will support students committed to working on the frontlines to serve our communities.

Launched in the spring of 2024, Niagara College’s Together Campaign is the largest comprehensive fundraising campaign in the College’s history and is built on several pillars, including addressing a crisis in healthcare driven by shortages on the frontlines in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care.

“There is no bigger issue facing Ontario hospitals today than the serious shortage of healthcare workers,” said Lynn Guerriero, President and Chief Executive Officer, Niagara Health.

Provincial government predictions indicate that 33,200 more nurses and 50,853 more personal support workers will be needed by 2032.

“Niagara College is committed to addressing Ontario’s healthcare crisis by training students for essential frontline positions in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, community health centres, and home care,” said Dr. Sinéad McElhone, Dean, Health Sciences. “The addition of The Joyce Family Foundation Healthcare and Skilled Trades Bursary Program significantly enhances our efforts and couldn’t come at a better time for our students.”

Addressing a similar crisis in skilled trades is also a key pillar of the Together Campaign.

“Ontario needs 100,000 more skilled workers over the next decade to deliver on our government’s ambitious infrastructure plans, including building at least 1.5 million homes by 2031,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.

Niagara College graduates hundreds of skilled tradespeople annually from nearly 20 programs and apprenticeships, such as Carpentry and Renovation Technician, Electrician – Construction and Maintenance, Industrial Millwright Mechanic, Metal Fabricator, Automotive Service Technician, and Welding Technician.

“We know that skilled trades help build communities, and we know there is a strong and growing demand for skilled trades graduates,” said Leo Tiberi, Dean, Media, Trades, and Technology. “The Joyce Family Foundation’s ongoing funding will help train many generations of skilled tradespeople who will serve our community and beyond.”

“The Joyce Family Foundation Healthcare and Skilled Trades Bursary Program is a powerful example of the enduring impact of endowed giving,” said Gord Arbeau, Vice President, Advancement. “This method invests the initial gift to generate returns, and these returns continue to provide ongoing financial support to students for generations. We are very grateful for The Joyce Family Foundation’s outstanding generosity.”

The College’s Together Campaign is a multi-year $50 million fundraising campaign. In addition to addressing the crises in healthcare and skilled trades, the campaign also seeks to make college education more accessible, create equitable and diverse learning environments, equip graduates with cultural awareness and global competencies, and foster research, creativity, and innovation to help close Canada’s productivity gap.

Community partners and donors are invited to learn more about the important priorities of the Together Campaign by visiting niagaracollege.ca/together. Discover how you can support this and other worthwhile initiatives by getting involved.

NC brings back star alumna for Orientation Week event: Welcome Home, Priyanka

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Get ready for an exciting evening as we welcome back NC alumna and phenomenon Priyanka to Niagara College! In collaboration with NCSAC, Alumni Relations is thrilled to invite you to a special performance and conversation with Priyanka and Kyle Miller (Vanity a la Mode) as part of NC’s Orientation Week celebrations.

Priyanka is a multi-talented performer, musical artist, and international entertainer making waves across the globe. From hosting as Mark “Suki” Suknanan on YTV to her iconic win as the first-ever winner of Canada’s Drag Race in 2020, Priyanka’s star power and charisma are undeniable. Her debut EP, Taste Test, has garnered over 15 million streams, and her sold-out performances continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Priyanka is also a host on the Emmy Award-winning HBO show, We’re Here.

Event Details:

  • Date: Thursday, September 19
  • Show Runs: 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
    • Doors Open: 6:30 p.m.
  • Location: Welland Campus
  • Tickets: $22.63 for NC alumni, faculty, and staff

Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to hear Priyanka reflect on her journey from graduating from NC’s Broadcast – Radio, Television, and Film program in 2012 to her current achievements. Reconnect with old friends, meet new ones and discover what’s next for Priyanka!

To learn more about Priyanka and follow her journey:

New mental health program for healthcare students supported by the McCall MacBain Foundation

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Three women seated at a table are reviewing paperwork and using a laptop.

Addressing the Healthcare Crisis

More than 200 first-year healthcare students are receiving mental health supports this fall, thanks to a milestone gift to Niagara College’s Together Campaign from the McCall MacBain Foundation that launched the ConfideNCe program.

Among the key pillars of Niagara College’s $50 million Together Campaign – the largest comprehensive fundraising initiative in the College’s history – is addressing the healthcare crisis that is driven by a shortage of frontline workers. As Niagara College seeks to graduate more nurses, personal support workers, and paramedics, the College recognizes the need for a range of supports for students studying in high-stress programs.

Students in the Paramedic, Personal Support Worker (PSW), Practical Nursing, and Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs are learning to better cope with academic and occupational stress and anxiety through targeted interventions designed to build resilience, thanks to McCall MacBain’s generosity.

“We are very grateful to the McCall MacBain Foundation for investing in our future caregivers,” said Dr. Sinéad McElhone, Dean, Health Sciences. “We recognize the unique pressures healthcare students face and are eager to provide them with tools to manage their studies effectively and prepare for the high-stress environments they will encounter in their careers.”

Founded in 2007 by John McCall MacBain and Dr. Marcy McCall MacBain, the McCall MacBain Foundation is committed to advancing human welfare through educational and leadership opportunities. Their support of the ConfideNCe program underscores a strong commitment to student success.

“We are working with post-secondary institutions across Canada to determine how best they can support student well-being and mental health,” said Alexandra Conliffe, President and CEO of the Foundation. “The first year is a critical time to understand students’ needs and provide early interventions to enable them to thrive academically and professionally. We hope this program will support students immediately, while also providing learnings on the well-being needs of students in demanding fields like healthcare.”

The ConfideNCe program offers a range of supports specifically designed to decrease healthcare student attrition rates. These include stress management workshops, mindfulness training, and wraparound supports to promote academic success and wellbeing.

“We are adding supplementary class assistance from lab tutors to help reduce student anxiety and stress, as well as implementing an early detection system to identify at-risk first-year students in the targeted programs,” said Heather Craig-Morton, ConfideNCe Project Manager.

A tailored survey helps assess first-year Nursing and Applied Healthcare students for susceptibility to anxiety, burnout, and potential dropout. This survey is launching alongside Orientation activities to maximize initial uptake. Additional engagements, including classroom visits, emails, and one-on-one appointments, are happening in the first four weeks of the term. The survey will be repeated at the end of Term 1 and Term 2 to measure the impact of specific ConfideNCe Program activities and interventions.

The program’s impact is anticipated to grow to over 400 students as it expands to include winter and summer intakes next year.

“The ConfideNCe program promises to make a profound difference in the lives of healthcare students by proactively addressing the root causes of anxiety and stress,” said Gord Arbeau, Vice President, Advancement. “This in turn will help bolster graduation rates and provide comprehensive personal, social, and academic supports – all thanks to the generosity of The McCall MacBain Foundation.”

The College’s Together Campaign is a multi-year $50 million fundraising campaign. In addition to addressing the crisis in healthcare, the campaign also seeks to address a similar crisis in skilled trades, make college education more accessible, create equitable and diverse learning environments, equip graduates with cultural awareness and global competencies, and foster research, creativity, and innovation to help close Canada’s productivity gap.

Community partners and donors are invited to learn more about the important priorities of the Together Campaign by visiting niagaracollege.ca/together. Discover how you can support this and other worthwhile initiatives by getting involved.

Embark Student Foundation grants $500,000 towards new Indigenous Student Success Pathways project

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A group of indigenous students seated on rocks in an outdoor classroom.

Advancing a more equitable and diverse college

A transformative $500,000 major grant from the Embark Student Foundation to Niagara College’s Together Campaign is reshaping the educational experience for Indigenous students at Niagara College.

This historic gift, the largest ever for Indigenous education at the College, has launched the Indigenous Student Success Pathways Project and supports students from their first day of studies through to graduation and into their careers.

A key pillar of the Together Campaign is to advance a more equitable and diverse college, and Embark’s gift significantly enhances Niagara College’s ability to advance its commitment to Truth and Reconciliation and provide supports and pathways for underrepresented groups.

“We are deeply appreciative of the Embark Student Foundation’s generous contribution,” said Leah Hogan, Director, Indigenous Education, and member of the Oneida Nation of the Thames (Bear Clan). “This funding enables us to implement a tailored support system that will greatly benefit our Indigenous students and align with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.”

The Indigenous Student Success Pathways Project enhances the academic experience and career readiness of Indigenous students by facilitating:

  • Learning Strategists: These professionals offer personalized academic support, including assistance with essay writing, study skills, and addressing individual learning needs, to ensure students receive the guidance necessary to succeed academically.
  • Employment and Co-op Specialists: These specialists focus on preparing students for the workforce by providing résumé and interview coaching, as well as facilitating networking opportunities with potential employers to help students gain practical experience and secure employment after graduation.
  • Cultural and Community Initiatives: The program includes initiatives that foster cultural connection and community engagement, such as land-based learning experiences and events designed to build a supportive campus environment for Indigenous students.
  • Targeted Recruitment: A vehicle wrapped in Indigenous art is being used for recruitment and outreach, traveling to remote communities to promote the program and create a welcoming presence for potential Indigenous students.
  • Emergency Financial Support: To address the financial barriers that can impact students’ education, the project provides emergency funds for essential expenses such as specialized equipment, textbooks, parking, and other costs.

“We are so proud to support the Indigenous Student Success Pathways Project at Niagara College and directly invest in a more equitable future,” said Andrew Lo, CEO at Embark. “This project will provide Indigenous students with the tools and resources they need to succeed along their post-secondary journey, helping even more students and families realize their dreams through education.”

In late 2023, Niagara College submitted a proposal to the Embark Student Foundation Major Grant Program, which offers annual grants of $250,000 to $500,000 to diverse educational institutions across Canada to improve access and foster student empowerment. This year, the program awarded $2.7 million to seven institutions, including Concordia University, Northern Alberta Institute of Technology, Toronto Metropolitan University, University of Lethbridge, University of Toronto, and Vancouver Island University, for their exceptional projects.

Notably, Niagara College is the only college among the recipients, highlighted for its inclusive and forward-thinking approach to supporting Indigenous students.

The Indigenous Education Department supports students through culturally appropriate teachings, academic guidance, leadership opportunities, community referrals, and assistance in navigating the college system. Committed to honouring Indigenous ways of knowing, doing, and being, programs like MPOWER help Indigenous students transition to post-secondary education, while trips like those to Coast Salish Territory provide immersive land-based learning opportunities about Truth and Reconciliation.

Cultural events, including Indigenous History Month, Red Dress Day, and the Moose Hide Campaign invite the broader community to learn about these significant social issues and foster healing and collective action. The College also celebrates Indigenous student achievements at events such as the Indigenous Student Awards Banquet and through the Dr. Phyllis Webstad Indigenous Scholarship.

“The Embark Student Foundation’s commitment to supporting student success throughout their post-secondary journey aligns perfectly with the objectives of the new Indigenous Student Success Pathways Project,” said Gord Arbeau, Vice President, Advancement. “We are extremely grateful for Embark’s strong commitment to the success of Indigenous students.”

The College’s Together Campaign is a multi-year $50 million fundraising campaign. In addition to creating equitable and diverse learning environments, the campaign also seeks to address the healthcare crisis and the skilled trades crisis, make college education more accessible, equip graduates with cultural awareness and global competencies, and foster research, creativity, and innovation to help close Canada’s productivity gap.

Community partners and donors are invited to learn more about the important priorities of the Together Campaign by visiting niagaracollege.ca/together. Discover how you can support this and other worthwhile initiatives by getting involved.

Electronic Technician Class of ’74 celebrates 50-year alumni reunion

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On August 10, NC proudly supported a heartwarming reunion for a group of alumni from the Electronic Technician program, Class of 1974. The event brought together 12 alumni, along with their spouses and family members, marking 50 years since they attended Niagara College.

The reunion took place at a vineyard in Vineland, owned by one of the alumni, providing the perfect setting for the group to reminisce and reconnect. A four-piece fiddle band played as they enjoyed a roast pig, dining under a tent with blue and white tablecloths–a nod to NC colours. The evening ended with a bonfire that sparked conversations and reflections about their college days.

Many of the alumni, who have spent their careers with notable companies like Canada Post and Xerox, shared stories of how their time at Niagara College shaped their professional lives. The Electronic Technician program, which has since evolved into new programs offered at the College, was a catalyst for their successful careers.

NC’s Class of 1974 Electronic Technician graduates.

Alumnus Eric Pries recalled how NC played a pivotal role in his career trajectory.

“I am thankful because I believe Niagara College got me into the workforce quickly and well-prepared for a variety of work opportunities, not only at the start but throughout my career,” he said.

Pries went on to have a 32-year career in technical service, supervision, and management, followed by 12 years as a high school tech teacher.

The reunion was not just about reliving old memories, it was also about celebrating the ongoing impact of Niagara College in their lives.

Some alumni continue to stay connected to the College in meaningful ways. One alumnus has been providing homestay for international students for 20 years and even brought his homestay student to the reunion. Another alumnus proudly shared how he has hired NC graduates and co-op students for positions in his department at Fisheries and Oceans Canada.

Reflecting on the reunion, alumnus Michael Colavecchia shared how meaningful it was to reconnect with his former classmates after so many years.

“This was an amazing reunion event, and it was filled with WOW,” he said. “I haven’t seen most of the guys since graduating fifty years ago, and it was incredible that we were able to locate our entire group after losing touch with each other.”

He also cherishes his challenging yet rewarding time studying at NC.

“Going to Niagara College was fun but tough,” said Colavecchia. “We had excellent teachers who came from the working field and decided to help others get their dream career,” he said.

Tom Price, NC’s Alumni Engagement Officer, helped organize the reunion and provided NC-branded swag, balloons, and banners.

Reflecting on his professional journey, Colavecchia spoke fondly of his career in the electronics field, particularly his last ten years with the District School Board of Niagara. During that time, he worked in classroom environments, repairing computers and other technology.

“The best part of my career was working with elementary students,” he said. “When I repaired something in the classroom, I would often get a hug and a ‘thank you.’ That was a highlight of my career.”

The alumni reunion was also attended by Tom Price, Alumni Engagement Officer, who was instrumental in helping organize the event.

“It was great to be part of the reunion and watch alumni, some who haven’t seen each other in fifty years, reconnect,” said Price. “The fact that all alumni were contacted and invited is special and unique.”

Alumni expressed their gratitude to NC’s Alumni Engagement team for helping connect everyone and supporting the reunion by providing NC-branded swag, balloons, and banners.

“I would like to thank Niagara College and the Alumni Engagement team for helping us put this incredible celebration together,” said Pries.

“Thank you to those among our group who had a vision to initiate this gathering and worked tirelessly to organize it with Tom Price,” said Colavecchia.

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