Beginning Fall 2025, Niagara College will provide renewable scholarships to cover the cost of tuition and ancillary fees for eligible First Nations and Former Youth in Care (FYIC) students.

The Strong Students, Stronger Futures Scholarship is a first in the Niagara region and seeks to empower marginalized and underrepresented students to achieve their potential.

“Developed alongside our partners from local Indigenous community organizations and Family and Children’s Services (FACS) Niagara, the scholarship underscores Niagara College’s strategic commitments to student success and equity and inclusion, and it furthers our commitment to the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission,” said Dr. Chris McGrath, Vice-President, Students.

In honour of the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee territory upon which NC’s campuses are located, and the College’s relationships with area First Nations community organizations, the scholarship will support First Nations students, and eligibility will be determined in partnership with First Nations communities.

The scholarship addresses the gap in various funding sources, including existing federal and provincial funding, which has proven to be a barrier for students from equity-seeking and sovereignty-seeking communities to pursue a college education.

“Each year, the Grand River Post Secondary Education Office (GRPSEO) is unable to meet the demand for postsecondary funding for our Six Nations of the Grand River community members, even at the low rates of assistance provided through the GRPSEO,” said Justine Henhawk-Bomberry, Director of Post Secondary Student Services at GRPSEO. “It is very encouraging to see Niagara College step up and provide much needed financial support to assist Six Nations of the Grand River students in order to securely move forward with their postsecondary education.”

In response to advocacy of local Band Councils and education offices, and in recognition of the immediate needs of First Nations students caused by gaps in federal funding for Indigenous education, Niagara College provided bridge funding for 10 students for the Fall 2024 Term to ensure they could accept their offer of admission with confidence and begin their studies.

Over the last five years, the number of youth FACS Niagara has supported at the postsecondary level has doubled. FYIC (previously Crown Wards) are young adults who have transitioned out of foster care and may be living on their own and in need of personal and financial support to achieve their education and career goals. NC will work with FACS Niagara to determine eligibility.

“These hard-working and talented young people are overcoming what were previously insurmountable odds, since those who have been in the care of a Children’s Aid Society are statistically less likely to achieve this crucial milestone,” Anna Bozza, CEO, Family and Children’s Services Niagara. “Niagara College’s ‘Strong Students, Stronger Futures’ scholarship will help promote equitable access to postsecondary education for youth who have been in care and help them develop into the leaders of tomorrow by pursuing a world class education at the college.”

“We are grateful to our partners at First Nations community organizations across the Niagara Region, and FACS, for their engagement and advocacy,” said Dr. McGrath.

The name of the scholarship – ‘Strong students, stronger futures’ – emphasizes that First Nations and FYIC students are, by nature, strong and with unlimited potential, and will only grow through their educational path at NC.

College seeks community support through the Together Campaign

“Local band councils and education offices have effectively advocated for the immediate needs of Indigenous students, caused by gaps in government funding for Indigenous education, said Gord Arbeau, Vice-President, Advancement. “The scholarship furthers Niagara College’s commitment to the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the College is inviting the community to help contribute to the program’s success at a time when students are most in need.”

Support of these scholarships through the Together Campaign will help to help marginalized and underrepresented students realize their full capabilities.

How to apply

For full eligibility requirements, dates, deadlines and information on how to apply, visit niagaracollege.ca/strongstudents.

Support for non-local Indigenous students

This scholarship is new to the College and is intended as a first step in efforts towards reconciliation and to help bridge the funding gap. NC’s intention behind this particular program is to honour the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee territory upon which our campuses are located, and our relationships with area First Nations community organizations.

NC offers many awards programs for students from a variety of backgrounds. Beyond the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee territory upon which we are located, out of region First Nations, Métis and Inuit students may be eligible for other scholarships, awards and bursaries. Future students are encouraged to use our Awards Portal to learn more: www.niagaracollege.ca/awards/

Support for non-local FYIC

Former Youth in Care from out of region who meet the criteria can access financial support through the Ontario Student Assistance Program’s (OSAP) Living and Learning Grant.

NC’s recognition of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

September 30 is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, when Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples across Canada recognize and remember the harmful legacy of residential schools, and honour victims, survivors, their families and affected communities.

During the week of Sept. 23, Niagara College hosted on-campus events and initiatives, including opportunities for students, faculty and staff to take an active role in the Truth and Reconciliation process through education. Events included a Corn Husk Doll making workshop, a screening of the documentary “The Nature of Healing,” a panel with survivors of residential schools, and more. Students and employees took part in ceremonies and events in the community on Sept. 30.

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of more than 10,000 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
Niagara College
905-932-1520
[email protected]

Prospective students, please contact:

Indigenous students: [email protected]
Youth in Care: [email protected]

The post Niagara College to offer first-of-its-kind scholarship to eligible First Nations and Former Youth in Care students appeared first on Niagara College.

Niagara College is pleased to officially announce the election of the new Chair and Vice-Chair of the Board of Governors, as well as new Board members.

On September 1, Lora Tisa, accomplished International Retailer and former President of RW&CO Brand, began her term as Chair, and Rashmi Biswas, co-owner of Lake and Associates Canada Inc., was elected Vice-Chair.

The duo will lead the College’s committed group of volunteer Governors through the 2024-25 academic year.

“It is an honour to lead the Board as Chair at this time of incredible growth and momentum at Niagara College,” said Tisi, who is also a notable Niagara College alum (Fashion Arts, 1979). “I look forward to another fantastic year supporting the college’s strategic direction and College leaders and employees who demonstrate their unwavering support for students.”

Tisi brings over 30 years’ experience leading several fashion brands through business, market share, revenue and profit growth, including Reitmans Canada Limited, American Eagle Outfitters, and The Northern Group. The granddaughter of a Delaware Nation Iroquois Elder, Tisi identifies as mixed-race Indigenous and mentors First Nation companies and serves as a board member for the Indigenous Advanced Education Skills Council (IAESC).

Biswas joined the Board in 2022 and she is the Executive Vice-President of Lake and Associates Canada Inc., a performance consulting firm specializing in leadership development, team effectiveness, and process facilitation. Working with private and public sector clients, Biswas has delivered services in North America, South America, Asia and the Middle East.

“Supporting the advancement of the College’s strategic plan through our work as a board gives me great pride,” said Biswas. “I look forward to the strides we will continue to take together in support of providing our students with outstanding applied education and training for a changing world.”

Tisi succeeds Mishka Balsom, a four-year Governor who served as Chair from September 2022 to August 2024.

“On behalf of Niagara College, I want to give thanks to Mishka for her remarkable dedication to our college and our students,” said President Sean Kennedy. “We are fortunate to have Lora lead our Board of experienced Governors whose leadership and contributions support the continued success of our college.”

New Board Member appointments

On behalf of the Board, Chair Tisi is excited to welcome two new Governors, each bringing unique experience and expertise to the table.

Lynn Guerriero (appointed) is the President and CEO of Niagara Health, and an accomplished leader in the Ontario healthcare system with over 30 years of leadership, management and clinical experience within a variety of healthcare provider settings. Guerriero has also held senior leadership roles at Cancer Care Ontario and prior to joining Niagara Health was Assistant Deputy Minister for the OHIP Division of the Ontario Ministry of Health. Guerriero holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Occupational Therapy from Western University and a Master of Health Science degree in Health Administration from the University of Toronto.

Maninder Singh (Student Representative): Having completed the Community Mental Healthcare program at Niagara College, Maninder is now pursuing the Palliative Care program. He has been an active student representative, including the four years he spent at Punjab University, Chandigarh, as well as his previous experience working as a nurse in India. Maninder is passionate about engaging with the community and exploring new ideas and experiences that contribute to personal and communal upliftment. His diverse interests include history, traveling, practicing martial arts, physical fitness, and making new friends.

For the full membership of Niagara College’s Board of Governors, and more information, visit: niagaracollege.ca/boardofgovernors.

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of more than 10,000 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
Niagara College
905-932-1520
[email protected]

The post NC Board of Governors elects new chair, vice chair, and welcomes new members appeared first on Niagara College.

Niagara College’s (NC) Signature Chef Series returns by popular demand, with its second guest chef for 2024 bringing the vibrant flavours of Louisiana to Benchmark to celebrate the end of summer.

On Saturday, October 5, the series will continue with Executive Chef Eric Martinez from the Orlando World Center Marriott – the largest Marriott Hotel globally, renowned for its “world beyond compare” experience. Chef Martinez is set to create an unforgettable dining experience, infusing his Louisiana heritage into the gourmet dishes served at Benchmark, located at NC’s Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

The Signature Chef Series is a unique culinary event that brings globally renowned chefs to NC. Since 2014, the series has provided a platform for chefs from around the world to showcase their talents, work alongside students, and offer guests a one-of-a-kind dining experience and an opportunity to enjoy gourmet dishes in an immersive setting.

“Our Signature Chef Series is more than just a dinner, it’s an experience,” said Craig Youdale, Dean of Niagara College’s Culinary, Tourism and Beverage Studies. “The goal is to create an atmosphere that reflect the origins of our world class guest chefs and offer an opportunity for our students and staff to connect with leading professionals in the industry. We are excited to bring Chef Eric’s amazing culinary talents to our community and hope that everyone can come take part in this special event.”

“I feel honoured to be back on Niagara College’s campus,” said Chef Martinez, who previously participated in NC’s Craft Beer and BBQ Festival as a Barbecue Guest Chef. “The welcome and collaboration from the students and instructors is incredible. I am inspired to bring the team at Niagara College a proper Louisiana feast that will bring a little Mardi Gras and a little bit of ‘Laissez les bon temps rouler.'”

Chef Martinez began his culinary career in New Orleans, where he honed his skills as one of the youngest non-European sous chefs at Arnaud’s restaurant. His career with Marriott has taken him from the JW Desert Springs Marriott in Palm Desert, California, to the Hilton Head Marriott Beach and Golf Resort in South Carolina, and finally to the New Orleans Marriott as Executive Sous Chef. At the New Orleans Marriott, he promoted the city’s food and culture on national TV shows like Good Morning America and Martha Stewart Live. Chef Martinez has also been featured as a James Beard Chef for Réveillon and on Good Morning America for Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance.

Currently at the Orlando World Center Marriott, Chef Martinez has played a significant role in developing, renovating, and operating several dining establishments, including Siro Urban Italian Kitchen, Falls Pool Bar & Grill, and the Central Pantry project. He has also contributed to enhancing the food and beverage experience for critical sales site visits and has fostered an inclusive environment for all teams.

Raised in South Louisiana with grandparents from Spain and France, Chef Martinez’s cooking style, which he describes as “naturally New Orleans,” reflects his deep appreciation for the culture and heritage that shaped him.

The October 5 Signature Chef Series event will begin at Benchmark with a speakeasy bar and reception-style experience, followed by action food stations in an outdoor tent and patio. Guests will enjoy a one-of-a-kind night with music, friends, and families. The evening will feature an eight-station food carnival, paired with Niagara College wine, beer, and cocktails. The menu will feature items such as a Cajun Charcuterie Board, New Orleans-style BBQ Shrimp over Tasso Grits, Crawfish Étouffée, Duck & Andouille Gumbo and more.

Tickets for the event are now available for purchase at $175 per person. The event will take place from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. For additional details and to purchase tickets, please visit the Eventbrite website here.

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

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of more than 10,000 students from over 100 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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Media inquiries, please contact:
Alyssa Milana
Communications Consultant (Acting)
905-329-0389
[email protected]

The post Join renowned Chef Eric Martinez for an authentic Louisiana culinary experience at NC’s Signature Chef Series appeared first on Niagara College.

Building on the excitement of the kick-off to the Fall 2024 Term, Niagara College has unveiled its revitalized brand to new and returning students, employees, and the Niagara community, reflecting the College’s evolution, trail blazing spirit and innovative mindset.

“As Niagara College continues our evolution and growth, our renewed brand clearly represents what NC life is all about,” said President Kennedy. “NC Life encompasses everything we do, everything we’re striving toward as part of our strategic plan, and who we are as an organization.”

Developed through extensive consultations with Niagara College students and employees, a range of design changes reflect the vibrancy and uniqueness of the NC experience today.

“NC Life is reflection of what we heard from employees and students,” said President Kennedy. “Our caring, passionate, and trailblazing students and employees were the inspiration for our brand refresh.”

NC Life describes the energy on campus that is generated by students and the commitment and dedication of all Niagara College employees. It includes our commitment to the student experience; nurturing and supporting the whole person, continuously striving for academic excellence, student success and innovation.

Other key components are the NC’s dedication to environmental sustainability, partnering to support community success and driving positive change through global education and training.

Design changes include a logo that is subtly different; refined with a softened typeface that echoes the welcoming and caring nature of the College and our people.

Paired with our beloved NC blue, the addition of bold, fresh colours breaks from tradition, injecting the brand with life and reflecting the dynamic energy of campus, the sense of community, the possibility of career goal-attainment, and a nod to our commitment to sustainability.

The new colour range embody diversity as our strength and speaks to the College’s global reach and commitment to diversity.

With suspense building for the return of students for the new academic year, College employees had a first look at NC’s brand refresh and the This is NC Life video on August 28.

The Niagara College website – www.niagaracollege.ca – reflects the new-and-improved brand.

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of more than 10,000 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
Niagara College
905-932-1520
[email protected]

The post Uniquely NC: Niagara College’s brand gets a refresh appeared first on Niagara College.

Drawing upon their success broadcasting the Niagara 2022 Canada Summer Games to the world, Niagara College professor Peter ‘Dutch’ VandenBerg tapped his alumni A-team to lead the livestream production of the 2024 World Rowing Championships in St. Catharines, August 18 to 25.

Seasoned Broadcasting – Radio, Television and Film (BRTF) alumni Carter Hendriks (2022), Carter Vahrmeyer (2019), Gabriel Klassen (2017) and Jon Kitiwano (2019) have rejoined their alma mater to lead a team of current BRTF students and other alumni through an intense production week along the Royal Canadian Henley Rowing Course.

“The challenge with rowing is that it’s the biggest field of play, but we have a pretty adventurous plan on how we’re going to cover it,” said VandenBerg, program coordinator and industry expert. “With basketball and hockey being played within a court or rink, all of your broadcasting equipment is within reach. With rowing, you have to take a boat to the start line, a car or a boat to the finish line – so you have to be creative and well planned.”

The 24-person broadcasting team is operating 18 cameras strategically placed along the 2,000 meter course, including eleven robotic cameras and one at the start line mounted in the new Aligner Hut, built by students in NC’s Carpentry and Renovation Technician program. The eight-day event is being broadcast live on CBC Gem, www.worldrowing.com, and the World Rowing YouTube channel.

“Peter [Dutch] VandenBerg and the Niagara College broadcasting team are known for being innovative and thinking outside the box,” said Bill Schenck, Chair of St. Catharines World Rowing. “Their approach to covering the 2024 Mega Worlds exemplifies their commitment to elevating the viewing experience for a global audience, and this production is set to surpass anything we’ve seen before. We are deeply grateful for Niagara College’s invaluable contribution to this event, and are excited to showcase their talent to the world.”

For a truly unique perspective, VandenBerg mounted a camera to the boat of the official who follows in-line with the rowers.

“It’s a new perspective; I haven’t seen that in rowing. The view behind the group is going to be a game-changer.”

While the whole course is important to cover, VandenBerg has his eyes on the final stretch.

“The magic happens in the last 500 to 1,000 meters. That’s where you’ll find the majority of our production value, including live drone footage in some of the final races.”

Graphics supplied by Swiss Timing will allow the NC team to showcase key rowing metrics at each of the 500-metre markers like boat speed and stroke rate, which help the production team tell the story.

VandenBerg credits infrastructure enhancements at the Royal Canadian Henley Rowing Course, including more fibers, for equipping the NC team to deliver a high caliber broadcast. He also acknowledges the role that the N22 Canada Summer Games played.

“A lot of our equipment is from the Canada Games… a lot of the technological advancements in broadcasting are because of those investments,” he said.

For current students, broadcasting the World Rowing Championships – under the guidance of seasoned NC pros – is the experiential learning opportunity of a lifetime and a point of pride for NC.

“Niagara College is pleased to support the 2024 World Rowing Championships,” said Fiona Allan, Vice-President, Academic at Niagara College. “Our Broadcasting faculty, staff, students, and alumni are showcasing their talents beyond the classroom and highlighting our commitment to providing meaningful learning experiences that both enhance our students’ skills and positively impact our community.”

The experience is also a professional development and mentorship opportunity for alumni.

“Our grads give back,” said VandenBerg. “They want to come back, to do what was done for them, and be the person who mentors and inspires. It’s an incredibly inspiring nuclear reaction.”

VandenBerg described NC alum Hendriks as his “right-hand” during the Canada Summer Games. Hendriks – who is the Technical Producer/Engineer for the championship – works as an engineer at Dome. A recent career highlight was covering game seven of the NHL Stanley Cup Final.

Vahrmeyer has been working with World Rowing over the summer as Content Creator to produce all of the sponsorship content. Klassen is serving as Director and Kitiwano as Lead Audio Mixer and Audio Designer for the broadcast.

The crew had a chance to prepare, covering both the Canadian Secondary Schools Rowing Association Regatta and the 140^th Royal Canadian Henley Regatta this summer.

Catch the 2024 World Rowing Championships in St. Catharines on CBC Gem, www.worldrowing.com, and The World Rowing YouTube Channel. For tickets to watch the races in person, visit: stcrowing2024.com/en/tickets.

From August 18-25, 2024, St. Catharines is set to welcome the world for the 2024 World Rowing Senior, Under 23 and Under 19 Championships at the historic Royal Canadian Henley Rowing Course. Known for its legacy in hosting major competitions, including two previous World Rowing Championships, the Henley Rowing Course will bring together 2,500 athletes from over 60 countries in what is the biggest and most important World Rowing event of the season. stcrowing2024.com.

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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Related release: 2024 World Rowing Championships unveil new Aligner Hut built by Niagara College trades students in partnership with the Niagara Home Builders Association

Media inquiries, please contact:

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

Vittoria Wikston
Marketing, Communications & Events
2024 World Rowing Championships
Cell: 905-321-5979
[email protected]