Learning lab empowers Niagara College CICE students thanks to theOntario Paper Thorold Foundation’s $100,000 gift

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Students from Niagara College’s Community Integration through Co-operative Education (CICE) program are honing their skills in a bright new space designed for their unique needs.

The CICE Experiential Learning Lab provides a comfortable environment where students can enhance their academic, social and employability skills – the three pillars of the CICE program – helping students foster greater independence in college, work, and social networks.

The lab, located at the Daniel J. Patterson in Niagara-on-the-Lake, was recently dedicated to the Ontario Paper Thorold Foundation in recognition of its $100,000 donation supporting the project.

“Education is one of our priority investment areas, and we have funded many worthy initiatives at Niagara College over the years,” said Sue Burch, President and Chairperson of the Ontario Paper Thorold Foundation. “Contributing to the CICE program feels very meaningful and it’s wonderful to see how students are using the new lab to support their goals.”

Since 1979, the Ontario Paper Thorold Foundation has contributed more than $700,000 to the College towards scholarships and bursaries for environmental students, capital campaigns supporting new instructional equipment and enhanced student spaces, and gifts-in-kind. The Foundation has many spaces named in their honour across NC campuses, including the Outdoor Classroom by the wetlands at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus.

“The Ontario Paper Thorold Foundation has made a significant impact at Niagara College and we are grateful for its long-standing support of our students,” said Gord Arbeau, Vice President, Advancement. “The Foundation’s latest gift towards the CICE program continues that remarkable legacy through the College’s Together campaign.”

Launched in 2017 as a first in the Niagara region, the CICE program gives individuals with developmental disabilities and other significant learning challenges the opportunity to experience college life.

Students take a combination of core academic courses and modified electives with support from learning facilitators and complete field placements that enhance their employability skills in a workplace setting.

Academic Portfolio Manager Katrina Frausel said the creation of the CICE Experiential Learning Lab has elevated the experience for students in the program.

“The lab is a versatile space where students can transfer their skills from the classroom to real-life situations through simulated and scenario-based learning,” said Frausel.

“It has given students an opportunity to learn key employment skills to set them up for future placement success through workstations, entry-level tasks, role-plays, customer service scenarios, and time management skills,” she added.

Frausel explained that the lab can be turned into a living environment, where students can practice life skills like safe food handling, storage, hosting friends, or a work setting like a café, where students are able to strengthen their customer service skills or practice other key tasks including preparing drinks, serving, bussing, dishwashing, cashier skills, and more.

The CICE Experiential Learning Lab offers a space where students can enhance their academic, social and employability skills. Pictured is CICE student Ethan Mackenzie preparing coffee and tea for guests.

Since it opened in winter 2025, students have enjoyed learning in the practical space.  

“I really enjoyed my experience in the CICE Lab because it helped build my employability skills by giving me hands on job experience. It was a great area to practice the skills I needed to work on,” said Ryan, a CICE student who began his final term of the program this January. “I was nervous at first, but with the proper support, I was able to build my confidence up and have since moved on to a successful community based placement.”

The Ontario Paper Thorold Foundation’s donation is one of two contributions that funded the construction and redevelopment of the lab, which was also supported by CIBC.

In addition to enhancing student learning, the expanded space has allowed the CICE team to offer new initiatives including the STEP-UP program. Piloted in summer 2025, the trailblazing six-week initiative allows prospective CICE students to explore the program before applying to NC, while offering CICE alumni meaningful paid roles.

STEP-UP was recognized with a 2025 NC President’s Award for Innovation in Student Learning and Success for exemplifying the College’s commitment to innovation by meeting diverse student needs in an engaging and impactful way.

“The CICE and STEP-UP programs continue to fill an important need in the community by expanding access to postsecondary education,” said Jennifer Roberts, Associate Dean of Academic and Liberal Studies. “We are grateful to our donors whose support empowers more students to achieve their full potential.”

CICE student Ethan Mackenzie and Field Placement Officer Aaron Russell visit with Adrian Barnet from the Ontario Paper Thorold Foundation in the CICE Experiential Learning Lab.

Together campaign

Niagara College’s Together campaign is a multi-year, $50 million initiative focused on making education more accessible, creating diverse learning environments, addressing critical workforce shortages in healthcare and skilled trades, and fostering 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.

A leader in applied education, Niagara College offers diploma, bachelor degree, post-graduate and apprenticeship programs at specialized campuses in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Welland. Consistently ranked among Canada’s top research colleges, NC is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world that provide students with important hands-on-experience. NC welcomes students from across Niagara, Ontario, and around the world who are studying in in-demand programs that support key sectors and industries in Niagara and beyond, with graduates making important contributions in all corners of our community. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca

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Media inquiries, please contact:

Elyse Howarth
Communications Writer
Niagara College
[email protected]

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The robots return to NC for the FIRST Robotics Competition, April 10-12

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Robots are taking over NC!

From April 10-12, and for the second year, Niagara College will host the FIRST Robotics Competition at the Welland Campus, welcoming young innovators – and their robots –from across Ontario.

The unique and spirited STEM competition challenges student teams, Grades 9 to 12, to design, program, and build a robot in a themed head-to-head challenge. The NC event is one of Ontario qualifiers that help determine which teams advance to provincials.

“Niagara College is thrilled to welcome such an inspiring group of bright, passionate young innovators from across Ontario this April,” said NC President, Sean Kennedy. “The FIRST Robotics Competition is a celebration of STEM excellence, innovation, and problem-solving, which reflect the very spirit we are so proud to champion at Niagara College.”

Admission is free and spectators are welcome on Saturday and Sunday to watch in awe as drive teams repair, rebuild and upgrade their machines under pressure. The robots will face-off in the rebuilt-themed game arena in the Simplii Financial Centre. The Learning Commons will serve as the “pits” for student teams to work on their robots.

Competitors spend weeks leading up to the competition designing their robot, from prototyping, building, wiring, programming and testing – to dominate on game day.

NC’s own Dr. Marc Nantel, Vice-President of Research, Innovation and Strategic Enterprises, will return as Judge Advisor, overseeing all the competition judges.

“High school students bring remarkable passion and creativity to their robots, along with incredible energy and spirit to the competition,” said Dr. Nantel. “It is a privilege to welcome such talented young innovators to Niagara College and to demonstrate that we are an inspiring place to nurture and advance their passion for STEM.”

Niagara College will provide three scholarships of $1,000 for FIRST Robotics Canada participants in attendance who enroll for 2026-27 in a program in the Schools of Technology or Trades, and have an average of 75 per cent or higher.

In 2025, over 1,000 spectators were in attendance over the course of the weekend.

For more information about the First Robotics competition, visit: https://firstroboticscanada.org/frc/niagara/

A leader in applied education, Niagara College offers diploma, bachelor degree, post-graduate and apprenticeship programs at specialized campuses in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Welland. Consistently ranked among Canada’s top research colleges, NC is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world that provide students with important hands-on-experience. NC welcomes students from across Niagara, Ontario, and around the world who are studying in in-demand programs that support key sectors and industries in Niagara and beyond, with graduates making important contributions in all corners of our community. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca

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Media inquiries:

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

The post The robots return to NC for the FIRST Robotics Competition, April 10-12 appeared first on Niagara College.

Niagara College welcomes nature enthusiasts for Spring BioBlitz on April 11

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Birdsong, binoculars, and boots in the mud: that’s how Niagara College will kick-off this year’s Spring Bioblitz on Sunday, April 11.

The free, family-friendly event will welcome community members to join NC students and faculty to capture biodiversity at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake – a UNESCO-designated World Biosphere Reserve.

“Bioblitz is among our favourite community events at Niagara College because it turns curiosity into real research,” explains Taryn Wilkinson, Manager of Sustainability at NC. “Our volunteers help us identify and catalogue everything from tiny insects to larger mammals, which is valuable data that helps us track changes in our ecosystem over time.”

Participants can choose from sessions led by local experts on birding, biodiversity, plants, benthic and macroinvertebrates, an Indigenous knowledge exchange, and more. Lunch will be provided for registered participants.

With forecasts calling for another hot, dry summer, Katie Bristow, Sustainability Program and Outreach Coordinator, says it will be interesting to see how this winter’s cold, snow, and rain shape the species recorded during the Bioblitz.

“One of the great things about Bioblitz is that we have data going back over 11 years that can help NC students view wildlife trends in connection with weather changes,” said Bristow.

Bristow says that while daylight remains consistent from year to year, a prolonged winter has the potential to disrupt the timing of insects and caterpillars that birds rely on to feed their young.

Delainey Stevenson, a student in the Environmental Technician (Co-op) program, was drawn to NC after attending her first Bioblitz three years ago.

Passionate about the environment, Stevenson said she first learned about the Bioblitz while searching online for outdoor events after moving from Hamilton.

“I had never been to the campus before and didn’t even know a campus like this existed,” she said.

During her first Bioblitz, Stevenson said one activity stood out.

“I’ve enjoyed the birding walks each year, but the Benthics have to take the win by far. That part specifically is what drew me to attend NC.”

Benthics are small organisms like tiny bugs and creatures that live in bodies of water like lagoons and wetlands. At the Daniel J. Patterson Campus, NC students have the unique opportunity to study these organisms right in their own backyard. Located at the edge of a restored wetland system, the campus is a living laboratory where students in the School of Environment and Horticulture can gain hands-on experience studying aquatic ecosystems.

Stevenson added that the NC students involved in the annual community event also left a lasting impression.

“The students that took part in the Bioblitz were also very educated and kind which also made the program seem welcoming.”

A representative from WWF-Canada will also be on site to share information about WWF programs, including the Living Planet Leader certification, to which NC is a signatory.

To register, visit: niagaracollege.ca/sustainability/students/bioblitz

A leader in applied education, Niagara College offers diploma, bachelor degree, post-graduate and apprenticeship programs at specialized campuses in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Welland. Consistently ranked among Canada’s top research colleges, NC is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world that provide students with important hands-on-experience. NC welcomes students from across Niagara, Ontario, and around the world who are studying in in-demand programs that support key sectors and industries in Niagara and beyond, with graduates making important contributions in all corners of our community. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca

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Media inquiries, please contact:
Jessica Torok
Communications Consultant
905-932-1520
[email protected]

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Norris Walker’s $3-million legacy gift supports NC’s Health Education Building

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Niagara College announced a transformational legacy gift in support of its new Health Education building at its sold-out 34th Annual Gala on March 28.

A $3 million gift from the estate of Norris Walker will support Niagara College’s new Health Education building, which is being constructed at the Welland Campus. The project is key to NC’s efforts to address a critical shortage of frontline healthcare workers in Niagara, and will allow the College to graduate 800 additional students from its health programs each year.

“Norris Walker’s lifetime of community service and philanthropy is reflected in all corners of our community, and his decades of support for Niagara College has changed the lives of thousands of students,” said NC President Sean Kennedy. “All of us at Niagara College are incredibly grateful for this legacy gift, which will significantly enhance our ability to bolster frontline healthcare in Niagara.”   

The $3 million gift builds on a $4 million donation from the Norris Walker estate announced in June 2025, bringing the total bequest to $7 million – the largest legacy gift in Niagara College history.

“My parents recognized the important role that Niagara College plays in economic and social development in the community,” said Sheila Bonapace, daughter of Norris and Marilyn Walker. “They also believed that every student should be given the opportunity to reach their full potential through education. It’s wonderful that our family legacy will continue to support students for years to come.”

In recognition of the $3 million gift, the 13,000 square-foot main student and community gathering place in the new Health Education building will be named the Norris Walker Family Community Courtyard. 

The new space complements the existing Norris Walker Family Community Courtyard located at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

These legacy gifts build on the Norris Walker family’s extensive history of generosity at the College, including a $1 million gift from the estate of Marilyn Walker in 2019 that established the Marilyn I. Walker Centre of Excellence in Visual Arts and Technology; a $1.2 million donation in 2015 to support the Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre; the establishment of the Norris and Marilyn Walker Scholarships in 2004, as well as support for several NC fundraising campaigns.

“We’re incredibly grateful to donors like the Norris Walker family who understand the lasting impact their support has on students’ lives,” said Gord Arbeau, Vice President, External Relations. “Gifts like these help Niagara College expand classrooms and labs and support more students to successfully graduate and fill the growing healthcare workforce shortages.”

Norris Walker was a fourth-generation business owner and a dedicated philanthropist whose legacy of giving has deep roots throughout the Niagara region. He was a steadfast supporter of postsecondary education in Niagara, as well as organizations such as the Walker Family Cancer Centre, Bethlehem Housing, Hotel Dieu Shaver Hospital, Shaw Festival, Wellspring Niagara, Pathstone Mental Health, United Way, Niagara Symphony Orchestra and more. Norris passed away in January 2024, almost a decade after his wife Marilyn, who passed away in October 2015.

The Walker family joins several philanthropic partners supporting NC’s health education project, including the Myhal Family Foundation, the Haj-Ahmad Family Foundation, and the late entrepreneur Wally Bamford.

The new building will connect to the existing Applied Health Institute at the Welland Campus, and when completed in 2027 will be the largest mass timber structure in the Niagara region.

In addition to graduating an additional 800 healthcare workers each year, the new building will double the capacity of the College’s community dental clinic to serve 3,000 patient visits annually, and provide a new enhanced home for the Myhal School of Nursing alongside advanced paramedic, pharmacy, dental, and virtual-reality simulation labs designed to mirror real clinical environments.

Learn more about the Health Education building at niagaracollege.ca/health-education-building.  

The Niagara College Gala

More than 670 guests attended the sold-out 34th annual Niagara College Gala, presented this year by CIBC, with support from 28 corporate sponsors and more than 50 businesses. Funds raised support the new Health Education building and 25 student scholarships, including six new student awards established this year.

“CIBC is honoured to serve as presenting sponsor of Niagara College’s Gala, which celebrates excellence across the College and the positive impact of its graduates,” said Tara Zecevic, Executive Director, Global Payment Services, CIBC Capital Markets. “Supporting initiatives like this reflects CIBC’s commitment to helping students develop the skills and experience needed to succeed in essential fields like healthcare.”

More than 75 students from multiple programs participated in the Gala to gain hands-on experience in event preparation and execution, including Broadcasting – Radio, Television and Film, Carpentry and Renovation, Community Integration Through Co‑operative Education (CICE), Culinary Management, Honours Bachelor of Business Administration (Hospitality), Hospitality – Hotel and Restaurant Operations, Landscape Technician, Public Relations, Business- Sales and Marketing and Social Media Management.

The Together Campaign

Launched in 2024, Niagara College’s Together campaign is the largest fundraising initiative in the College’s history. The multi-year, $50 million initiative focuses on addressing critical workforce shortages in healthcare and skilled trades, making education more accessible, creating diverse learning environments, and fostering 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.

A leader in applied education, Niagara College offers diploma, bachelor degree, post-graduate and apprenticeship programs at specialized campuses in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Welland. Consistently ranked among Canada’s top research colleges, NC is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world that provide students with important hands-on-experience. NC welcomes students from across Niagara, Ontario, and around the world who are studying in in-demand programs that support key sectors and industries in Niagara and beyond, with graduates making important contributions in all corners of our community. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca

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 Media inquiries, please contact:

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

The post Norris Walker’s $3-million legacy gift supports NC’s Health Education Building appeared first on Niagara College.

NC students defend HR supremacy with first-place provincial win

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For the third time in four years, Niagara College students have proven they have the right talent for the top.

On March 21, a small team of students from NC’s School of Business and Management secured a first-place finish at the 2026 Human Resources Professional Association (HRPA) Student Case Competition. The team of five third-year Honours Bachelor of Business Administration (Human Resources) students – including Kayla Knowles, Pablo Rodriguez, Shubham Shubham, Tanmay Tondwal, and Charu Vashisht – edged out more than 20 teams from across Ontario. Their victory followed previous gold-medal performances from NC HR students in 2023 and 2025.

“Seeing our students win this competition for a third consecutive year speaks to the power of experiential learning and reflects the consistency and quality of our programs in the School of Business and Management,” said Dean of Business and Environment Evan DiValentino. “Our students are not just learning HR theory – they’re applying it, pressure‑testing it, and delivering solutions that stand up against the best in the province.”

Students began preparing for the competition in January under the mentorship of Dr. Susan Ehlert, HR Professor and Program Coordinator. As the team coach who has been preparing students for this competition over the past four years, Ehlert trained students in rigorous case analysis and collaborative strategy.

The virtual competition required teams to analyze complex business cases under strict time constraints. After a preliminary round on March 13, NC was selected as a finalist to present before a panel of industry judges and advanced to compete in the final round on March 21.

“This competition helps students develop critical business skills, like quick thinking, decision making, problem solving, and strategic analysis, and helps improve their communication, presentation, and teamwork skills,” said Ehlert. “It is also helpful to students to understand how their skills and education measure up to other educational institutions across Ontario.”

Rodriguez, who lives in the Niagara region, said the win was a true testament to the team’s synergy.

“Winning first place at this year’s HRPA Student Competition has been a very meaningful experience to me both personally and professionally. It allowed me to push myself and strengthen my personal and professional confidence,” said Rodriguez. “I can’t fully express the gratitude I feel to be surrounded by such driven, talented, and passionate group members who inspire me to raise the bar.”

For teammate Vashisht (Niagara-on-the-Lake), the high-stakes environment was a unique opportunity to circle back to core interpersonal skills.

“The competition definitely helped me develop and test my skills especially problem-solving, communication and teamwork, which is something everyone needs no matter what field they are in,” said Vashisht. “I was confident of the collaborative efforts of Professor Susan and our team, and all of the preparation that went into it.”

Knowles, who is originally from the Bahamas, found the experience meaningful and valuable.

“Winning first place is incredibly meaningful to me. Personally, it gave me a lot of confidence in my abilities and showed me that I’m capable of performing well under pressure,” she said. “Professionally, it confirmed that I truly do want a career in HR and showed me how rewarding it can be to accomplish goals, both personally and within an organization.”

Shubham (St. Catharines), who came to NC from India to pursue a passion for meeting new people and making a difference, noted that the win carried significant personal weight.

“I feel very proud and joyful after discovering that we won the HRPA competition; it was truly an amazing feeling,” said Shubham. “It has had a big impact on my personal life, as it was an opportunity to represent my college and make them proud.”

“Honestly, I felt exhilarated,” said Tondwal (Niagara Falls), who is also from India and followed his passion for business to NC. “It was an amazing experience professionally. I learned a lot.”

In addition to winning a certificate with recognition from the HRPA, the regulating Human Resources body in Ontario, each member of the team will also receive a $200 gift card.

This year’s competition featured Ontario postsecondary teams from universities including Algoma, Brock (Goodman School of Business), Guelph-Humber, Lakehead, Ontario Tech, Toronto Metropolitan, University of Toronto, U of T Scarborough, Windsor, and York; and  colleges: Algonquin, Durham, George Brown, Georgian, Humber, Niagara, Sheridan, St. Clair, and St. Lawrence. More information about the competition is available on the HRPA website.

Niagara College’s School of Business and Management offers diploma, bachelor’s degree and graduate certificate programs, based at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

A leader in applied education, Niagara College (NC) offers diploma, bachelor degree, post-graduate and apprenticeship programs at specialized campuses in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Welland. Ranked as the No.1 research college in Canada, NC is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world that provide students with important hands-on-experience. NC welcomes students from across Niagara, Ontario, and around the world who are studying in in-demand programs that support key sectors and industries in Niagara and beyond, with graduates making important contributions in all corners of our community. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca

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Connected Care conference links students with Niagara’s healthcare leaders

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Niagara College is ready to welcome a historic gathering of regional healthcare leaders to speak directly to its student body.

The speaker series conference, “Connected Care: The Landscape of Preparing Today’s Learners for Tomorrow’s Healthcare System” will be held on March 30 at the Welland Campus Applied Health Institute. Organized by the College’s Myhal School of Nursing in partnership with its Centre for Research in Education, the event marks the first time a collection of Niagara’s high-profile health leaders will gather specifically to speak to more than 200 students from a variety of health-related programs – from nursing and personal support worker, to paramedicine, dental, pharmacy and more.

Attendees will hear from speakers across hospital leadership, community care, applied research, and emergency medical services, about the rapidly evolving realities of modern practice, offering insights to support their future careers.

 “This conference represents a significant milestone for Niagara College. For the first time, we have assembled a collection of high-profile industry giants specifically to help prepare our students for the rapidly shifting realities of healthcare,” said Dr. Holldrid Odreman, Program Coordinator for NC’s Honours Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) program.

“As healthcare becomes increasingly decentralized – extending beyond hospital walls, into the community and the homes of patients – adaptability and resiliency will be key for the next generation of healthcare professionals to succeed in this changing landscape.”

The event will include keynote speeches from Simon Akinsulie (Chief Nursing Executive, Niagara Health) and Karen Lutz-Graul (Chief, Niagara EMS). 

“I’m honoured to participate. Healthcare is evolving rapidly – now more than ever, given some of the pressures that we have experienced over the last few years,” said Lutz-Graul, who is also a graduate of NC (Ambulance and Emergency Care,1990). “Students need to feel as though they have the foundation they need to start their careers and they need to hear it from their system leaders.”

Students will have a chance to pose questions to an industry panel including Carolyn Dyer (Executive Director, REACH Niagara), Charity Beland (Manager, Indigenous Health Services and Reconciliation, Niagara Health), Frank Ruberto (Executive Director, Niagara Medical Group, Family Health Team) and Sean Simpson (Pharmacist, Simpson’s Pharmasave).

It will also shine a spotlight on student research opportunities at the College with a session jointly led by Director of Research from Niagara Health Elaina Orlando and second-year student in NC’s BScN program, Christian Baltus. Baltus, who is an alumnus of NC’s Pre-Health Sciences program (2017) and part of the planning committee for the event, looks forward to sharing information about research projects he has been involved with and the benefits of engaging with research as a student.

“Healthcare today is more complex, fast-paced, and patient-centered than ever before. Students must be equipped not only with clinical skills, but also with critical thinking, adaptability, and the ability to engage in evidence-informed practice,” said Baltus. “By exposing students to research early in their training, we empower them to become not just competent clinicians, but also future leaders, educators, and advocates within the profession.”

WHAT

Connected Care: The Landscape of Preparing Today’s Learners for Tomorrow’s Healthcare System

WHEN

Monday, March 30, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

9 a.m. Opening remarks

9:20 a.m. Keynote Speaker, Niagara Health Chief Nursing Executive, Simon Akinsulie

9:50 a.m. Break

10:10 a.m. Expert panel

Carolyn Dyer (Executive Director, REACH Niagara), Charity Beland (Manager, Indigenous Health Services and Reconciliation, Niagara Health), Frank Ruberto (Executive Director, Niagara Medical Group, Family Health Team) and Sean Simpson (Pharmacist, Simpson’s Pharmasave).

11 a.m. Break

11:20 a.m. Research focused presentation, Niagara Health Director of Research Elaina Orlando and NC BScN student, Christian Baltus

1:10 p.m. Keynote Speaker, Niagara EMS Chief Karen Lutz-Graul

WHERE

Niagara College Welland Campus

100 Niagara College Boulevard, Welland, Ont.

Applied Health Institute Auditorium (AH141) 

Link to Welland Campus Maps

Link to parking info

Media inquiries, please contact:

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

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Niagara College invites future students to explore programs and campus life at Spring Open House on March 28

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Prospective students, their families and the community are invited to explore programs, tour campus and experience student life at Niagara College during its Spring Open House on Saturday, March 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Visitors will be welcomed at both the Welland Campus and the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake, where they’ll have the opportunity to step inside Niagara College and experience campus life firsthand. Guests can connect with faculty, staff and current students, learn more about academic programs, and discover the hands-on learning experiences that shape the NC student journey.

“We are proud of the vibrant community that makes Niagara College so special and look forward to welcoming future Knights to experience it firsthand,” said NC President Sean Kennedy. “Spring Open House is a chance to explore our innovative programs, connect with current students, faculty and staff, and see how our people support students on every step of their journey.”

Prospective students attending Spring Open House can explore several new programs launching in Fall 2026, including Defence Systems Engineering Technician (two-year diploma), Defence Systems Engineering Technology (three-year diploma), Cybersecurity (graduate certificate), Addictions and Mental Health (graduate certificate), Early Childhood Education – Resource Consulting (graduate certificate) and Professional Butchery Techniques (one-year certificate).

The popular Event Management (graduate certificate) program is also returning, providing students with hands-on opportunities to plan, coordinate and execute events across a variety of sectors.

Winter 2027 will see the introduction of an online delivery option for its Human Resources Management (graduate certificate) program, highlighting the College’s continued commitment to innovation and meeting evolving industry needs.

“Niagara College is committed to delivering innovative programming that aligns with industry needs,” said Dorita Pentesco, Vice President Enrolment. “The launch of these new programs, along with the full range of programs that Niagara College offers, reflects our dedication to preparing career-ready graduates with the critical, in-demand skills employers are seeking.”

The day will begin with an Open House Kickoff Session, starting at 9:45 a.m. and running every 15 minutes, where visitors will be welcomed by an NC student recruiter who will share tips on how to make the most of their visit, including how to plan their day, explore campus, learn about the many program offerings available at NC and experience NC Life.

Academic areas at both campuses will open their doors, offering demonstrations and lab tours in a variety of specialized learning spaces. Among the many interactive experiences available, Niagara College’s School of Technology will showcase drones, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and robotics used by students in the Defence Systems Engineering Technology program. Visitors can also explore hands-on activities with the School of Justice and Fitness, including interactive sessions in the simulation lab where they can participate in judgement scenarios, forensic investigations, and driving simulator training.

At the Niagara-on-the-Lake campus, visitors can sample mocktails created by students in School of Hospitality and Tourism before getting their hands dirty with a potting activity in the Teaching Greenhouse, hosted by the School of Environment and Horticulture. These are just a few examples of the engaging demonstrations and activities visitors can experience throughout Spring Open House.

New this year, Open House will feature Alumni Panel Sessions, where guests can hear directly from NC graduates about their experiences and career journeys after college. Attendees can ask questions and learn how alumni have turned their NC education into real-world success.

Throughout the event, attendees can also learn about the College’s admissions process, student services and financial aid options. Staff from across the College will be available to answer questions and help visitors discover which program or pathway best aligns with their career goals.

Campus tours will be offered at both campuses beginning at 10 a.m., with guided tours departing every 30 minutes from a dedicated tour booth.

Visitors are also encouraged to explore NC’s Learning Enterprises – the College’s on-campus businesses that provide real-world, integrated learning environments for students while delivering unique experiences for guests.

Prospective students are encouraged to register for Open House in advance. Those who register will be entered into a draw for a chance to win a $5,000 credit toward Niagara College tuition for the 2026–2027 school year. Visitors who register before Friday, March 27 at 11:59 p.m. (EST) will also be entered for a chance to win one of 10 $100 gift cards.

For more information and to register, visit the Niagara College Open House website. Free parking will be available at both campuses during the event.

A leader in applied education, Niagara College (NC) offers diploma, bachelor degree, post-graduate and apprenticeship programs at specialized campuses in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Welland. Ranked as the No.1 research college in Canada, NC is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world that provide students with important hands-on-experience. NC welcomes students from across Niagara, Ontario, and around the world who are studying in in-demand programs that support key sectors and industries in Niagara and beyond, with graduates making important contributions in all corners of our community. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca

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Media inquiries, please contact:
Courtney De Caire
Communications Consultant
289-407-8298
[email protected]

The post Niagara College invites future students to explore programs and campus life at Spring Open House on March 28 appeared first on Niagara College.

Okanagan College, Niagara College sign agreement to strengthen wine education

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Two colleges from Canada’s top wine and agricultural regions — Okanagan College and Niagara College — have signed a memorandum of understanding that will expand the availability of world-class wine education while also opening the door for further collaboration in food, agriculture and tourism training.

As part of the memorandum, the colleges met at Niagara College this week to sign an agreement that will enable Okanagan College to offer Niagara College’s Winery and Viticulture Technician curriculum in a format that is customized to the Okanagan region. The curriculum will allow people to train for careers in Canada’s burgeoning wine industry, including winemaker, winery or cellar technician, vineyard manager or laboratory or viticulture technician.

“This partnership brings together two colleges with a shared commitment to academic excellence,” said Okanagan College Provost and Vice-President, Academic, Dr. Samantha Lenci. “By collaborating with Niagara College, we are strengthening learning opportunities for students and delivering programs that reflect the needs of our communities and local industry. These industries are critical to our region, and we’re excited to expand our support of the Okanagan and Shuswap through relevant, applied programming.”

Launched in 2000, Niagara College’s Winery and Viticulture Technician program was the first program of its kind in Canada, housed in Canada’s first and only commercial teaching winery, which produces a broad range of award-winning wines each year. Located at Niagara College’s Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON, the program is part of Niagara College’s School of Wine, Beer and Spirits, which also includes programs in brewing and distilling, supported by an on-campus teaching brewery and teaching distillery.

“At Niagara College, we are proud of our reputation as a pioneer in wine education since we launched our trailblazing Winery and Viticulture Technician program 25 years ago along with Canada’s first commercial teaching winery,” said Niagara College Vice-President, Academic, Dr. Fay Lim-Lambie. “Sharing our gold-standard curriculum with Okanagan College is a testament to the quality of our programming and entrepreneurial spirit and expands the availability of wine education to Canada’s top two wine regions.”

The agreement represents an important step in a partnership that also includes other opportunities to work together. Future collaborations may include credit transfer between the two colleges, student and faculty exchanges, joint or collaborative research, events and other academic activities.

“As a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, our region is uniquely positioned to lead at the intersection of food, wine and place,” said Joe Baker, Dean of the Hall School of Business and Entrepreneurship at Okanagan College. “By offering an established, world‑class curriculum, the Hall School of Business and Entrepreneurship — through our new Centre for Food, Wine and Tourism — is building an academic foundation that will educate future leaders in viticulture, winemaking and winery management. This partnership ensures the Okanagan Valley not only sustains its global reputation, but also shapes the future of wine, tourism and culinary excellence far beyond our borders.”

The new curriculum is anticipated to be available through Okanagan College’s new Centre for Food, Wine and Tourism starting in fall 2027. The Centre is currently under construction at Okanagan College’s Kelowna campus. It will house food, beverage and tourism programs, a new restaurant, programming delivered under the Hall School of Business and Entrepreneurship, and other Okanagan College programs.

To learn more about food, beverage and tourism studies offered at Okanagan College, visit okanagancollege.ca/food-wine-and-tourism. More information about the School of Wine, Beer and Spirits at Niagara College is available at niagaracollege.ca/winebeerspirits.

A leader in applied education, Niagara College (NC) offers diploma, bachelor degree, post-graduate and apprenticeship programs at specialized campuses in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Welland. Ranked as the No.1 research college in Canada, NC is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world that provide students with important hands-on-experience. NC welcomes students from across Niagara, Ontario, and around the world who are studying in in-demand programs that support key sectors and industries in Niagara and beyond, with graduates making important contributions in all corners of our community. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca

Media inquiries, please contact:

Kevin Parnell
Associate Director, College Relations
Okanagan College
[email protected] 

Julie Greco
Communications Consultant
Niagara College
[email protected]

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Spirit of innovation shines at Teaching Distillery with three national medals

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Medals are pouring in for student crafted spirits from Niagara College’s Teaching Distillery.

The Teaching Distillery – the first of its kind in Canada, which opened as a living laboratory for the College’s trailblazing Artisan Distilling program in 2018 – has won three new medals from the 2026 Canadian Artisan Spirit Competition (CASC): a gold for Bees and Blooms (Liqueur category), a silver for Spiced Old Fashioned (White Spirit category), and a bronze for London Dry Gin (Classic Gin category).

Organized by Artisan Distillers Canada, CASC is Canada’s only national spirit competition reserved exclusively for artisan spirits, bitters, and zero-proof spirits.

 “These national medals showcase how applied learning truly positions our students to succeed,” said Dr. Marc Nantel, Vice President, Research, Innovation and Strategic Enterprises. “Our unique learning enterprises, such as the Teaching Distillery, are not only living laboratories for hands-on experience, they’re incubators of talent that raise the bar for the industry.”

Bees and Blooms was an Artisan Distilling student capstone project, from concept to production. The sweet floral liqueur (23% ABV) features honey alongside elderflower and jasmine, rounded out by warm cinnamon undertones and bright citrus. Two students, Brian Cao and Satvir Singh, created the spirit as their capstone project in April 2025, before they graduated from the program.

“It is always exciting for the Teaching Distillery to be awarded at a national level, but it is always a bit more special when it is a Capstone project, because it showcases not only the ability to make great spirits but also to impart that knowledge onto our students,” said Head Distiller David Dickson. “For our students. it is a vindication of all their hard work and potential within the distilling industry.”

Students named the spirit to represent its honey element, with diverse flower aromas collected from honeybees, as well as elderflowers and jasmine flowers extracted by alcohol during the production process.

“We wanted the spirit to create a unique perspective on the elderflower liqueurs that have gained popularity in the last couple of decades and bring that to a new audience,” said Cao and Singh in the product tasting notes.

Spiced Old Fashioned is a “cocktail in a bottle” created by using a whisky style base from the Teaching Distillery. The 35% ABV spirit, infused with orange peel and spices, was a collaborative effort between College distillers, staff at the Wine Visitor and Education Centre, and Artisan Distilling students.

London Dry Gin was created by Distiller Ian Bickle – who is also a graduate of the Artisan Distilling program (2021). The crisp, juniper-forward gin uses just six botanicals to achieve a bold, terpene-rich 43% ABV profile.

 “This is my style of gin. It has a great classic profile which was a lot of fun to build recipes for and show the students how little nuances can affect something so simple. Because we used very little botanicals, we rely on the skill of the distiller to really maximize the spirit,” said Bickle. “I am obviously super proud, and as a former grad, I am excited to be able to push our range and showcase where our little distillery can go.”

Entries for CASC were blind judged by an independent panel from across the country. Unlike some spirit competitions, not all entries are awarded medals. View the 2026 results: https://artisandistillers.ca/2026-results

The NC Teaching Distillery also won three medals at CASC 2025: gold and Best in Class for Canadian Rum (Alternative Rum), gold for Hail Caesar Vodka (Infused Vodka), and bronze for Grandma’s Apple Pie (fruit liqueur). View release here.

Artisan Distilling is a one-year graduate certificate program based at NC’s Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake within the College’s School of Wine, Beer and Spirits. Students gain hands-on experience at the on-campus Teaching Distillery, which was the first of its kind in Canada.

London Dry Gin is still available for purchase while supplies last at NC’s Wine Visitor + Education Centre retail store, alongside products from NC’s Teaching Distillery, Teaching Winery and Teaching Brewery.  While Bees and Blooms and Spiced Old Fashioned have sold out, the latter will be re-stocked in the future. Visit the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake (135 Taylor Rd.) or online at ncteachingwinery.ca.

A leader in applied education, Niagara College (NC) offers diploma, bachelor degree, post-graduate and apprenticeship programs at specialized campuses in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Welland. Ranked as the No.1 research college in Canada, NC is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world that provide students with important hands-on-experience. NC welcomes students from across Niagara, Ontario, and around the world who are studying in in-demand programs that support key sectors and industries in Niagara and beyond, with graduates making important contributions in all corners of our community. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca

Media inquiries, please contact:

Julie Greco

Communications Consultant

905-328-2532

[email protected]

The post Spirit of innovation shines at Teaching Distillery with three national medals appeared first on Niagara College.

NC ‘raises the steaks’ with butchery program to meet surging demand

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Top butchers in Canada are praising Niagara College’s recently announced artisanal butchery program poised to help fill high demand in Ontario.

A one-year certificate program, Professional Butchery Techniques will welcome its first intake of students in September 2026, aimed at those interested in expanding their chef expertise or those exploring a trending artisanal craft for the first time.

Beyond basic meat cutting, the program will teach various techniques from charcuterie to brining, smoking and preserving, that connect to the culinary industry.  

“There’s a massive market for people with meat cutting skills and this program creates a whole new level of opportunity for students – from culinary students and chefs looking to expand their skills, to those interested in enter a trending, in-demand industry,” said Youdale. “We have developed a unique program that is truly the prime cut of culinary education, blending old-world artistry with the modern demands of a sustainable food chain.

“By integrating culinary expertise directly into the butchery lab, we aren’t just training people to cut meat; we are crafting the next generation of artisanal leaders.”

Students will engage in extensive lab-based instruction, gaining proficiency in whole-animal breakdown, retail and wholesale processing, and regulatory compliance. Beyond the blade, the program emphasizes the “farm-to-table” movement, focusing on ethical sourcing and waste reduction to ensure students value the entire resource.

In addition to teaching Butchery Techniques, the program sets itself apart with specialized courses designed for the modern market, including Value-Added Production, Industrial Smokehouse and Barbecue Techniques, Retail Operations, Meat Science and Product Development, and Culinary Essentials for Butchers. Incorporating culinary arts into the curriculum was a direct recommendation from industry leaders to ensure graduates understand how the meat they prepare ultimately performs in the kitchen.

Chef Professor Olaf Mertens, who was involved with coaching the national team during the 2025 World Butchery Challenge in Paris, noted that the program was designed to address a massive gap in the Ontario labour market. To ensure that graduates are work-ready from day one, the curriculum was created following deep consultation with industry experts, including members of Butchery Team Canada.

“We already have a charcuterie course, but we wanted to go deeper than that. Our goal was to create the best butchery program in the country,” said Mertens. “We interviewed each one of the butchers on the national team, as well as many local Ontario butchers, and asked, ‘how do we design a one-year program for work-ready graduates.’”

A few members of Butchery Team Canada recently visited the College’s Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake participating in demonstrations to launch the new program. They offered high praise for the College’s vision.

“This new program is great; it’s really needed in this area,” said Peter Baarda, owner of JNG Meats, founder and Co-Captain of Butchery Team Canada. “Including culinary with the butchery just makes sense … and learning the money side of things is huge, so students starting out will understand the cost of goods.”

Butchery Team Canada member Dave Vander Velde, store manager at Stoney-Creek-based VG Meats, applauded the new program.

“When I was growing up, even though I was a second-generation butcher, I wanted to take my skills to the next level but I didn’t want to travel and there was nothing locally, so to have something like this in Niagara is absolutely amazing,” said Vander Velde. “Students entering the industry will succeed that much quicker because they’ll already have a foundation. And it benefits the industry by cutting down on training and attrition because students who completed the program are already committed.”

Butchery Team Canada member Damian Goriup, of Florence Meats in Oakville, also highlighted the need for more skilled workers.

 “The butchery trade is in desperate need of skilled labour. The Niagara College butchery program is needed not only for beginners but also to further improve the skills of many currently working in the industry,” said Goriup. “Education is key to ensuring that we maintain good quality and safe products in the industry.”

Professional Butchery Techniques, which will run from September to April is open to anyone – with an admission requirement of an OSSD or equivalent. In addition to serving as a vital pipeline for industry, it will also be a new pathway option for culinary students. Entrance scholarships are available to those from NC’s School of Culinary Arts who enrol.  

Based at the College’s Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Professional Butchery Techniques is the latest addition to NC’s Culinary, Tourism and Beverage Studies division – already known for blazing trails with its on-campus teaching restaurant, and Canada’s first Teaching Winery, Teaching Brewery and Teaching Distillery.

A leader in applied education, Niagara College (NC) offers diploma, bachelor degree, post-graduate and apprenticeship programs at specialized campuses in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Welland. Ranked as the No.1 research college in Canada, NC is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world that provide students with important hands-on-experience. NC welcomes students from across Niagara, Ontario, and around the world who are studying in in-demand programs that support key sectors and industries in Niagara and beyond, with graduates making important contributions in all corners of our community. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca

https://youtu.be/naZSMZ1WNV0

Media inquiries, please contact:

Julie Greco

Communications Consultant

905-328-2532

[email protected]

The post NC ‘raises the steaks’ with butchery program to meet surging demand appeared first on Niagara College.