On the third of six days of Niagara College’s Spring Convocation, nearly 1,000 students from the Schools of Media, Trades and Technology crossed the stage – many going on to lucrative careers to help solve the skilled trades crisis.

“You’ve learned many lessons here at NC as you’ve trained for your careers in industries and sectors that are critical to our province and country’s future, and are driving our world forward and supporting our communities,” said President Sean Kennedy in his address to graduates. “In an increasingly digital world where AI is changing how we work and live, remember that nothing can replace the magic of human connection.”

A shining example to grads, Wendy Wing, Senior Vice-President of Finance and Administration at Rankin Construction, received an Honorary Degree in Applied Studies – Business Administration at the afternoon ceremony.

Wing, a prominent Niagara business leader with over 30 years of experience at Rankin Construction, and former Chair of NC’s Board of Governors, took to the stage to address graduates. She was joined in the audience by her parents, Tom and Beth Rankin, and other family members.

Wing described the award as an “incredible honour.”

“I am thrilled to accept this honour, but I know I wouldn’t be here without my family and our team at Rankin. I am also so grateful to Niagara College.”

Wing was granted an Honorary Degree in Applied Studies – Business Administration for her significant business and community accomplishments; her ongoing and steadfast support of Niagara College and our students; and for her generous sharing of knowledge and leadership.

“Wendy and her family are valued supporters and advocates of Niagara College, contributing to student success by funding scholarships and awards and by helping to expand and improve campus so that students have the best teaching, learning and gathering spaces,” said President Kennedy.

“I believe it’s a great time to be joining the workforce in beautiful Niagara. There are exciting projects on the horizon here,” said Wing, noting the various industry investments and construction projects to support our rapidly growing population.

Wing inspired graduates to leverage the resilience they developed as NC students to overcome challenges.

“You will hit potholes, detours, road closures, and construction crews that will force you to recalculate your route, but I can assure you that you will be speeding down the straightaways… and don’t be afraid of that journey – be brave!”

Dean’s Award Winners

Wednesday’s ceremonies also celebrated three outstanding graduates who earned the Dean’s Academic Awards, presented to students who achieved the highest GPA in their academic schools.

Jordan Dimarcantonio of Stoney Creek, who graduated from Computer Programming, received the Dean’s Award for the School of Media. Transferring to NC during his third year at university, Dimarcantonio sought practical experience to better prepare him for his career as an IT Systems Assistant with the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario.

A graduate of the Carpentry and Renovation Technician Program, Manuel Felipe Perez Flores from Chile was the Dean’s Award Winner, School of Trades. A freelance architect in his home country, Flores was drawn to learn from Canadian carpenters and woodworkers at NC to improve his skill as a designer and contribute to Niagara’s economy as a skilled tradesperson. He completed his co-op as a Project Manager with Empire Communities and also volunteered for various projects including a custom display for NC’s signature fundraising Gala.

Blake Chambers of Stevensville graduated from the Computer Systems Technician – Network and Cloud Technologies program receiving the Dean’s Award from the School of Technology. Chambers will put his knowledge of enterprise-grade networking equipment and software to the test in pursuit of industry certification.

Grad spotlights: Bright futures

Graduates from NC’s Photography program had another reason to celebrate. Six graduating students were recognized in the Applied Arts 2024 Student Awards, an esteemed international photography competition.

Alanna Ransom of St. Catharines graduated with honours from the Mechanical Techniques-General Machining program. She already has the career of her dreams lined up as an apprentice at DM Precision, a CNC Machine Shop in Dunnville.

Anastasiia Slyvka from Kyiv, Ukraine graduated from the Computer Programming and Analysis (Co-op) Program with the hands-on experience she’ll need to succeed in a technology-driven world. During her program, Slyvka was a member of NC’s Women in Tech club. As a research assistant, Slyvka developed VR applications with SoilOptix where she has since transitioned into a full-time role as front-end developer.

Graduating students in the College’s Broadcasting – Radio, Television and Film Production program worked behind the scenes orchestrating the Convocation livestream before taking the stage and stepping into the spotlight.

Niagara College Spring 2024 Convocation Ceremonies

NC’s Spring Convocation will continue until June 15, celebrating a record number of 5,500 graduates across 12 ceremonies held at the Welland Campus in the Simplii Financial Athletic Centre.

To view the full schedule and list of programs graduating within each School, visit the ‘Ceremony Schedule’ section of Niagara College’s Convocation website. All ceremonies will be livestreamed and available for later viewing.

For more information, visit niagaracollege.ca/convocation.

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 ranked Canada’s No.1 research college. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

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Related media releases:

June 5: Niagara College to celebrate largest-ever graduating class at Spring Convocation, June 10-15

June 7: Niagara College’s top grads to receive prestigious Governor General Academic Medals at Spring Convocation

June 10: Niagara College kicks off week of Spring Convocation ceremonies

June 11: Niagara College celebrates over 1,000 graduates at day two of Spring Convocation

Media inquiries, please contact:

Jessica Torok
Communications Consultant
905-932-1520
[email protected]

Alyssa Milana
Communications Consultant (Acting)
905-329-0389
[email protected]

More than 800 graduates were ushered into Niagara College’s alumni community, June 10, as students from the Schools of Justice and Fitness, Allied Health and Community Services were presented with their diplomas on the first of six days of convocation ceremonies at the Welland Campus.

It was a day of reflection – to celebrate the triumphs and successes that culminate in convocation, and the struggles, the challenges and the determination needed to get there, said Niagara College President Sean Kennedy in his address to the Class of 2024.

“This ceremony is part of your individual story – your NC story – and a celebration of what you’ve accomplished and the excitement of possibilities and dreams that lie ahead,” Kennedy said. “This ceremony is about looking back on where you’ve come from. It’s about being present in this moment to feel the groundswell of pride from your supporters and champions, and to feel proud of yourself.

“This spirit of celebration is one I hope you will carry with you for the rest of your lives.”

A highlight of the day was the presentation of the first of two prestigious Governor General’s Academic medals, awarded to the graduating student who achieved the highest overall grade-point average from a diploma program.

For nearly 150 years, the Governor General’s Academic Medals have recognized the outstanding scholastic achievements of students in Canada. They are awarded at four distinct levels: Bronze at the secondary school level; Collegiate Bronze at the post-secondary, diploma level; Silver at the undergraduate level; and Gold at the graduate level.

This year’s Collegiate Bronze medal recipient was Julianna Pennings, a mature student who achieved a 98 percent average in the Recreation Therapy Program while balancing her studies, career and family life.

A former nurse, Pennings returned to school in Fall 2022 to follow a path that would combine her previous health care experience with her creative pursuits.

Addressing her fellow graduates during the afternoon ceremony, Pennings thanked them for their companionship, their kindness and their friendliness as she faced uncertainty while looking to start a new chapter in life.

“Your support has meant the world to me,” she said. “You have all become so much more than the unfamiliar faces I saw on day one. We have all worked so hard, celebrated each other’s wins, and experienced our own personal challenges and barriers to reach this moment of graduation. For that, I couldn’t be prouder of us.”

Pennings also received the Dean’s Award for the School of Community Services for scoring the highest GPA within her school of study. Paramedic graduate Cassenya Detmar and Community and Justice Services graduate Makayla Fairbanks were also presented with Dean’s Awards for finishing at the top of the class in the Schools of Allied Health and Justice and Fitness, respectively.

This year’s Distinguished Alumni Award was also presented during the afternoon ceremony to Dave Labbé, a member of the Innu from Northern Quebec, who was part of the inaugural class of students at Niagara College in 1967.

Labbé graduated from the Electronic Engineering Technology Program in 1971 and returned to the College as an Elder after his retirement, drawing on his own education to impart knowledge in a way that mirrors the unique learning he experienced as an NC student.

He recalled his early days at Niagara College when he was frustrated with his academic performance and wanted to leave. He met a physics professor told him why he shouldn’t quit and reminded him that greatness doesn’t come from within; it comes from the people who surround you and support you.

“You’ve got so many people – sitting beside you, behind you, people here in the room, people not here at all tonight because they couldn’t be. I’ve kept that with me and that’s been my way of looking at things: I’m never alone,” Labbé said after being presented with the Distinguished Alumni Award and a piece of specially crafted Indigenous beadwork. “This culmination is like a full circle for me. It’s brought me back to where I really need to be. Like the goose that forgot how to fly, hitching a ride to get home after 20 years. (He) ends up back where the egg was. This is where my egg was. This is where I actually got life.

“I envy you right now,” he continued. “You’re still sitting in a seat in an institution that brought you not only understanding of yourself, but enlightenment of the world. You people graduating now, you’re a part of my family. I see you that way. You’ve gone through a different kind of life. When you came here, you were a different person. I know none of you are the same person now, because that’s what happened to me…and I thank you for carrying on that tradition.”

Labbé’s remarks were followed by a performance by The Strong Water Singers entitled “The Longest Walk.” The local Indigenous-led women’s drum group also drummed as graduates entered the gymnasium at the start of both ceremonies.

Later in the week, NC will also bestow special honours to 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. Wing will be presented with an Honorary Bachelor of Applied Studies – Business Administration at the 3 p.m. ceremony on June 12, which celebrates new graduates from the College’s School of Technology and Trades.

By the time the College concludes its convocation week on June 15 – each ceremony honouring graduating students from different areas of study – NC will gain 5,500 new graduates.

In addition to the two held on June 10, convocation ceremonies will take place at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily from June 11 to June 15. All Spring Convocation ceremonies will be livestreamed from the Simplii Financial Athletic Centre at Welland Campus. To view the schedule and a list of programs graduating within each School – or to watch the livestream of any ceremony – visit NC’s Convocation website.

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 ranked Canada’ s No.1 research college. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

Related media releases:
June 5: Niagara College to celebrate largest-ever graduating class at Spring Convocation, June 10-15

June 7: Niagara College’s top grads to receive prestigious Governor General Academic Medals at Spring Convocation

Two outstanding graduates, an inspiring Niagara College employee and alumna, and a passionate lifelong learner and healthcare professional, will be celebrated at NC’s Spring Convocation ceremonies for achieving the highest overall grade-point averages (GPA) among the Spring Class of 2024.

Becky Sciliberto of Welland, who achieved a 94% average in the Honours Bachelor of Business Administration – International Commerce and Global Development program, and Julianna Pennings of St. Catharines, who achieved a 98% average in the Recreation Therapy program, are this year’s recipients of the prestigious academic medals awarded by the Governor General of Canada. Both are mature students who returned to school to pursue personal and professional growth, showcasing remarkable determination and perseverance as they balanced their studies, careers, and family life.

For nearly 150 years, the Governor General’s Academic Medals have recognized the outstanding scholastic achievements of students in Canada. They are awarded to the student graduating with the highest average from a high school, as well as from approved college or university programs. Today, the Governor General’s Academic Medals are awarded at four distinct levels: Bronze at the secondary school level; Collegiate Bronze at the post-secondary, diploma level; Silver at the undergraduate level; and Gold at the graduate level.

Sciliberto and Pennings will each receive their medals during NC’s Spring 2024 Convocation and will deliver speeches at their respective ceremonies.

Governor General’s Silver Academic Medal: Becky Sciliberto

NC alumna and employee Becky Sciliberto will be honoured at the College’s June 13 morning ceremony (10 a.m.), where she will receive the Silver Governor General’s Academic Medal for her exceptional academic achievement in the Honours Bachelor of Business Administration – International Commerce and Global Development program.

Sciliberto made the courageous decision to return to school thirteen years after graduating from NC’s Advanced Diploma in Business Administration – Accounting program in 2007. She regretfully missed her first convocation ceremony, and the prospect of making up for this missed milestone has been the driving force throughout her academic journey.

“I’m deeply grateful to celebrate this significant achievement with not only my family, but also my esteemed colleagues and fellow alumni,” said Sciliberto. “The support I’ve received makes this moment feel surreal, and I don’t take it for granted.”

During her studies, Sciliberto was motivated not by a desire to be the best student, but by her personal commitment to excelling academically at a degree level and advancing her professional capabilities as an NC employee. She skillfully balanced the demands of her studies, a full-time job, volunteer work, and family life, serving as an inspiring role model within the College community.

“Returning to school as a mature student was difficult as my learning style shifted from when I was younger,” said Sciliberto. “I had to teach myself to be patient and navigate self-doubt. Despite these hurdles, I am so grateful for my courage and vulnerability that allowed me to persevere and earn my degree—a milestone that makes me incredibly proud.”

Sciliberto is currently the Manager of Global Compliance and Reporting at NC. She first joined the College professionally in 2011, where she has since taken on various roles in finance, compliance, and strategic development. She looks forward to further applying the knowledge gained from her degree to enhancing her contributions to the College.

A passionate advocate for community service, Sciliberto also actively volunteers her time in the Niagara community. She co-founded the PIEce on Earth Project, which funds festive gift baskets for local families in need during the holidays, and volunteers with United Way Niagara. She has also served on Niagara College’s President’s Advisory College Council and as the Support Staff representative on the College’s Board of Governors.

“On behalf of NC faculty, I would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Becky and express how proud we all are of her,” said James Boesch, Associate Dean, School of Business and Management Studies, Niagara College. “Beyond Becky’s impressive academic performance, she is a shining example of how students can be inquisitive, ambitious, engaging, and hard working, both in the classroom and in the community. Her work in non-profit management, helping our local United Way chapter, was a brilliant example of applied learning in action.”

Last month, Sciliberto was honoured for her leadership and community engagement, earning Business Link Media Group’s 40 Under Forty Business Achievement Award.

Governor General’s Collegiate Bronze Academic Medal: Julianna Pennings

Julianna Pennings will be recognized for her outstanding academic performance in the Recreation Therapy program at the June 10 afternoon ceremony (3 p.m.), where she will receive the Collegiate Bronze Governor General’s Academic Medal.

Originally from Bolton, Ontario, Pennings lived in Mexico as a teenager before returning to Canada to study nursing and graduated in 2001. After a decade in various nursing roles, including oncology, homecare, medicine, and multi-organ transplant units, she transitioned to entrepreneurship, co-founding a successful photography business.

In 2019, Pennings and her family moved to Niagara, where post-pandemic reflections re-ignited her passion for lifelong learning. Feeling motivated, she contacted NC in August 2022 to explore programs that aligned with her interests and skills, intending to start her studies the following year. To her surprise, she found herself in class just a week later. Pennings says her NC experience “felt like it was meant to be from the very start.”

Pennings found barriers returning to the nursing field after such a long absence, and she wanted to pursue something that encompassed both her passion for holistic health and her many creative pursuits.

“I find joy in walking, painting, sewing, and various other mindful activities, and I see this career as a wonderful pathway to incorporate these activities therapeutically,” said Pennings. “I truly believe in the effectiveness of recreation therapy due its focus on holistic health, its person-centered approach, and strengths-based perspective. I see it as a crucial addition to healthcare in Canada.”

Balancing the demands of raising four children, two of whom are currently studying at NC, alongside working two part-time jobs, presented challenges and moments of self-doubt, but Pennings persevered. She hopes to be living proof that returning to school as a mature student is achievable and can lead to a transformative life experience. Pennings’ mantra throughout her time at NC was, “I can do hard things,” guiding her through every challenge and serving as a constant reminder of her resilience.

“Julianna’s exceptional commitment to academic excellence is matched by her passion for the recreation therapy field,” said Jaclyn Frail, Associate Dean, School of Community Services, Niagara College. “Beyond her coursework, Julianna has volunteered for numerous opportunities to showcase and promote the Recreation Therapy program and profession, reflecting her deep commitment to her chosen career path. We are very proud of what Julianna has accomplished during her time here and look forward to the great things she will accomplish in the field.”

Pennings plans to advance her education and obtain a master’s degree in counseling and psychotherapy. She is also currently pursuing a geriatric certificate to enhance her current role at the College, specifically in improving the delivery of the dementia simulation offered across various programs.

Niagara College Spring 2024 Convocation Ceremonies

Niagara College’s Spring 2024 Convocation will take place from June 10 to June 15, celebrating a record number of 5,500 graduates across 12 ceremonies. Ceremonies will be held at the Welland Campus in the Simplii Financial Athletic Centre.

This year’s ceremonies will also feature two distinguished guests, Wendy Wing and Dave Labbé. Wing, a prominent Niagara business leader, will receive an Honorary Bachelor of Applied Studies – Business Administration at the June 12 ceremony (3 p.m.), and Labbé, an NC alumnus and Indigenous Elder, will receive a Distinguished Alumni Award at the June 10 ceremony (3 p.m.).

To view the full schedule and list of programs graduating within each School, visit the ‘Ceremony Schedule’ section of Niagara College’s Convocation website. All ceremonies will be livestreamed and available for later viewing.

For more information, visit niagaracollege.ca/convocation.

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.

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Media inquiries, please contact:
Alyssa Milana
Communications Consultant (Acting)
[email protected]

On Friday, May 31, Niagara College proudly raised the Progress Pride flag, in celebration of Pride Month, at both the Welland Campus and the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

The flag raising marks the start of Pride Month in June, symbolizing the College’s allyship of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and support for equity, diversity and inclusion.

“I am very proud to be President of such an amazing College community, one where all are welcomed and where respect for each other is of the utmost importance,” said President Sean Kennedy in his remarks to the College community at the flag raising in Welland. “Your presence today is a strong signal of support for fellow colleagues and students and Niagara College’s 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Today represents a great stride by our whole community to bolster the culture of inclusion and belonging that is so central to our NC identity.”

Pride Niagara Chair Enzo De Divitiis, members of the College’s leadership team, Devin Garrah from the Niagara College Student Administrative Council (NCSAC), and Bruin Pol, President of the Rainbow Knights student club were in attendance, along with students and employees.

“Today we stand at the flagpoles at both campuses, gathering in solidarity, celebration and pride, to reaffirm our commitment as a community to our 2SLGBTQIA+ student and staff, said Pol.

“Reflecting on the past two years… it has been exciting to witness the progress Niagara College has made in terms of equity, diversity and inclusion,” said Pol. “However, it is essential to acknowledge the challenges and milestones that brought us here, enabling us to make the progress as a College community.”

This spring, Niagara College celebrated the one-year anniversary of its Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Blueprint, a collaboration with NCSAC. The Blueprint represents the College’s formal commitment to EDI work which has had – and continues to have – a transformational impact.

During the Fall Term, the College celebrated inclusivity on campus with the first the first NCSAC Pride event in partnership between NCSAC and the NC Rainbow Knights student club.

The flag was raised ahead of Pride Month so that students and employees are free to attend events in the community. Niagara College is proud to be a Rainbow Sponsor for Pride Niagara’s Pride festival, which includes various events throughout the Niagara Region.

Remarks at the flag raising sought to elevate Two-Spirit identity and the importance of working to address the impacts of colonization through support for Two-Spirit people. NC’s Indigenous Education created Two Spirit Pins, reflective of the Two Spirit Anon design from 2016, which will be available at NC’s booth at the Pride in the Park festival.

The College will continue to recognize and elevate 2SLGBTQIA+ people during Pride Month through various events and activities, including a talk entitled Here and Queer through the Years: Highlights of 2SLGBTQIA+ History in Canada, and tie-die events at both campuses.

Community events

The NC Recruitment Team, joined by Indigenous Education, will be in and around the community this month at various Pride events:

Pride Niagara: Saturday June 8 from noon to 6 p.m.
Montebello Park, 64 Ontario Street, St Catharines

Fort Erie Pride: Saturday, June 29 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Fort Erie Leisureplex, 3 Municipal Centre Dr, Fort Erie

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.

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Media inquiries, please contact:

Jessica Torok
Communications Consultant
Cell: 905-932-1520
[email protected]