Niagara College awarded grant for COVID-19 related research equipment

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Niagara College will advance its COVID-19 related research after being granted close to $50,000 for the purchase of a biomedically compatible 3D printer for its Research & Innovation division.

The state-of-the-art 3D additive manufacturing equipment will be used by researchers at NC’s Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (WAMIC) at the Welland Campus.

The award, which is part of a special fund of $28 million in research infrastructure support, was announced on November 6 by the Honourable Navdeep Bains, minister of Innovation, Science and Industry. Funding through the Canada Foundation for Innovation’s (CFI) Exceptional Opportunities Fund will support 79 projects at 52 universities and research hospitals, colleges, polytechnics and Cégeps across Canada.

“Canadian researchers and scientists are helping to protect our health and safety, and are key to finding our way out of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Bains. “With this funding through the Exceptional Opportunities Fund, the Government of Canada is ensuring these talented Canadians have the equipment and tools to support them in their very important work.”

Until now, WAMIC’s lab capability in this area has been limited to Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) 3D printers, which are not intended for biomedical material. With this funding and this equipment, research and development projects related to COVID-19 can proceed with the necessary biocompatible and liquid-tight parameters.

“The research infrastructure funded by CFI will expand Niagara College’s capacity to serve a wider array of people in need of specialized protection, testing and life-saving medical assistance,” said Marc Nantel, PhD, NC’s vice-president, Research and External Relations. “COVID-19 has highlighted the need for rapid, inclusive response to public health emergencies, and WAMIC’s research team responded by designing and manufacturing 37,000 face shields for front-line workers with Niagara Health [17,300] and other essential works in communities throughout Ontario [20,000].”

Rafael Almeida assembles face shields in a lab at the Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre. The WAMIC research team produced 37,000 face shields for essential workers in Niagara and beyond to respond to COVID-19-related medical needs. Almeida, a graduate (2020) of NC’s Computer Programming program, worked as a research assistant with the Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (WAMIC) until August 2020.

The new biomedically compatible 3D printer will equip NC researchers with the ability to continue COVID-19 related research and development in areas such as addressing special needs modifications to face shields/masks, 3D-printed nasal swabs and a patient-administered saliva collector.

This specialized equipment will also advance the engineering work already done by the WAMIC team in its project with McMaster University and Hamilton Health Sciences (HHS) in developing a 3D-printed video laryngoscope sheath prototype used in COVID-19 patients needing intubation. The project was part of an emergency scenario to prepare for potential supply-chain interruptions.

For clinical patient use, such a device needs to be printed with biocompatible material. Because a parametric CAD model now exists, should a resurgence of infections occur, the 3D printer will enable WAMIC to locally supply laryngoscope inventory matched to observed patient larynx size – avoiding wrong size order delays and waste, added Nantel.

This is welcome news for Amir Gill, Niagara Health’s director of Engineering, Facilities, Biomed, Capital Planning. “With high interest, we are elated to learn of the laryngoscope development,” said Gill. “Supply chains remain insecure and this source is a welcome alternative.”

When it comes to future COVID-19 research with the new 3D printing capabilities, Gill said he supports the methodology of patients being able to collect samples at home, and bring them in for rapid result interpretation to help control community transmission of the disease.

“This proposed process, if adopted, has the potential of reduced face-to-face testing interaction and hence increases safety for health-care professionals,” said Gill.

About the Canada Foundation for Innovation

For more than 20 years, the CFI has been giving researchers the tools they need to think big and innovate. Fostering a robust innovation system in Canada translates into jobs and new enterprises, better health, cleaner environments and, ultimately, vibrant communities. By investing in state-of-the-art facilities and equipment in Canada’s universities, colleges, research hospitals and non-profit research institutions, the CFI also helps to attract and retain the world’s top talent, to train the next generation of researchers and to support world-class research that strengthens the economy and improves the quality of life for all Canadians.

About NC’s Research & Innovation Division

NC’s award-winning Research & Innovation division provides real-world solutions for business, key industry sectors, and the community through applied research and knowledge transfer activities. Researchers conduct projects that provide innovative solutions, such as producing and testing prototypes, evaluating new technologies, and developing new or improved products or processes for small- and medium-sized businesses and community partners. With funding support from various regional, provincial and federal agencies, students and graduates are hired to work alongside faculty researchers to assist industry and community partners leap forward in the marketplace.

Niagara College offers more than 150 diploma, bachelor degree and advanced level programs; as well as more than 600 credit, vocational and general interest Part-Time Studies courses. Areas of specialization include food and wine sciences, advanced technology, media, applied health and community safety, supported by unique learning enterprises in food, wine, beer, distilling, horticulture and esthetics. For more information, visit niagaracollege.ca.

 

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Media inquiries, please contact:

 

Michael Wales
Manager, Communications
Niagara College                                                                                                                               
Cell: 905-328-4101
[email protected]

 

Julie Greco

Communications Consultant

Niagara College

Cell: 905 328 2532

[email protected]

 

 

Quick links

Canada Foundation for Innovation
Exceptional Opportunities Fund
The CFI Research Facilities Navigator: An online database of labs and facilities that are open to working with business

 

 

‘Indigenous Awareness Month has the power to bring us back together again’

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November is Indigenous Awareness Month and a variety of activities are planned for students, staff and faculty to celebrate and connect.

Indigenous Education has a roster of events planned to raise awareness of the diverse Indigenous student body in hopes of building a stronger relationship within – from Tea Talks with Elaine Berwald, On the Land with Dave Labbe, a month-long book club on Indian Horse, weekly fireside chats with an Indigenous Counsellor, a Rock Your Mocs social media activity, a Netflicks Watch Party, and more.

“Indigenous Awareness Month continues to be a month of celebration and this year it was critical for us to create events both virtually and in-person that connected us once again,” said Ashley Buck, Indigenous student success leader. “We placed the student at the centre of our circle and began to build a partnership with the community and other on-campus departments to engage in Indigenous knowledge and culture. Indigenous Awareness Month has the power to bring us back together again and that will have a positive impact on the health of our NC community. “

Fireside Chats with an Indigenous Counsellor

Nov. 9, 16, 23, 30, 7-9 p.m.

Join the conversation as this series journeys through a blend of critical perspectives and old Indigenous philosophies. Presented by Indigenous counsellor, Stephanie Stephens, the Fireside Chat series seeks the resurgence of old Indigenous ways of knowing and being though post-modern-ish Indigenous discourse engaging Niagara College students and community members in healing and wellness through cultural continuity.

Everyone welcome. The series will continue every Monday until Dec. 14.

The event will be held via Zoom. To register visit: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEkfu2hrzkoHNLAX1GhlFQPo25gU0UX8sG?fbclid=IwAR3TpeQWzfBn_FcXYbyEwnf7-45Ezhkr28U7U2rD08nYzp5gTQWXZoOfB8o

On the Land with Dave Labbe

November 10, 1 p.m.

Niagara-on-the-Lake campus, Indigenous Garden (outdoor)

Join elder Dave Labbe for a welcoming circle at the Indigenous Garden to celebrate Indigenous Awareness Month. Dress warm, wear your mask, bring a friend.

For more information, contact Indigenous Education at [email protected]

 

Tea Talks with Elaine Berwald

November 16, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Join the conversation about Indigenous ways of knowing, sharing and celebrating through stories. This is an open conversation and all are welcome to join. Please register and use the Zoom link below:

https://zoom.us/j/94520651222?pwd=a2lpbHg0MU1tckU3ZTBEbXpuSWJYUT09

(Meeting ID: 945 2065 1222; Passcode: dQZ87j).

Indigenous Awareness Month Events

For a full list of events organized for Indigenous Awareness Month and further details on each activity, view the online calendar at niagaracollege.ca/indigenouseducation

Path-breaking agreement leads Niagara College students to real-world experience at Pathstone

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A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) will strengthen the spirit of collaboration between Niagara College and Pathstone Mental Health.

While students from the College’s Community and Health Studies Division have been gaining firsthand experience at Pathstone over the years, the recently signed MOU formalizes the arrangement, and paves the way for new and additional opportunities in the future.

“Our relationship with Niagara College has long been in existence; we currently have 17 NC students with us at Pathstone doing great work with teams and their young clients and families,” said Shaun Baylis, CEO, Pathstone Mental Health. “This formalized MOU shows our extended commitment to one another and our shared goal to further education, and support in the children’s mental health space.”

“Community partnerships like this are the cornerstone of the applied education we offer at Niagara College, creating opportunities for our students to gain hands-on experience in their area of study while supporting an integral community agency,” said Fiona Allan, NC’s vice president, Academic. “We applaud Pathstone for its continued commitment and support for higher education.”

NC students who gain experience at Pathstone benefit from working alongside mental health professionals and assisting community clients. Currently, students from NC’s Child and Youth Care and Social Service Worker programs complete placements in Pathstone’s Day Treatment program, while those from Community and Justice Services typically assist with Supervised Visitation programs.

“Working with children and youth experiencing mental health challenges is something that is covered in the classroom, but the true value in learning is in working alongside professionals and from the personal journeys of their clients,” said Carolyn Triemstra, NC’s dean of Community and Health Studies. “This exciting agreement allows us to explore options that fit with Pathstone’s program delivery and NC’s student learning needs.”

For second-year Child and Youth Care students Amy Wilson and Kevin Badgerow, working their placements at Pathstone this Fall term brings them one step closer to their career dreams.

Wilson is gaining experience with Pathstone’s Day Treatment program at a District School Board of Niagara secondary school. With a Child and Youth Care worker and DSBN teacher on-site, she helps adolescent youth with therapeutic interventions, activities, and life skills.

“Helping others is something I have always felt passionate about. I chose the Child and Youth Care program for the chance to work with children, youth, and their families, in the hope that I can bring preventative interventions and help those vulnerable navigate complicated health, education, and social systems,” she said. “Pathstone is helping me gain experience not only in interacting with clients, but also giving me insight into the process.”

Badgerow values the opportunity to work with children who have behaviour difficulties and lagging skills that are holding them back from being placed in a typical classroom setting.

“I believe interacting with these kids will aid my ability to help other children who are also experiencing these difficulties at other areas and other locations,” he said. “Pathstone is a great establishment to be placed at through Niagara College because it is a clean, safe forgiving and caring facility. All the coworkers I have encountered have been a great help and very approachable with any questions I have.”

Thanks to this MOU, even more students can be placed at Pathstone in the future. The College and Pathstone plan to explore additional placement opportunities for students in other programs including Practical Nursing, Occupational Therapy Assistant/ Physiotherapist Assistant, Recreation Therapy programs, and more.

 

About Pathstone Mental Health

Pathstone Mental Health is a community-based organization whose mission it is to provide innovative and effective treatment for children and youth in Niagara diagnosed with mental health issues. Thanks to support from our donors and volunteers, Pathstone is able to address and meet the needs of clients from the start of their life up to their 18th birthday. Important to note, Pathstone’s Crisis & Support Line puts callers in touch with a Pathstone therapist 24/7 by calling 1-800-263-4944. Visit pathstonementalhealth.ca

 

About Niagara College

Niagara College offers more than 150 diploma, bachelor degree and advanced level programs; as well as more than 600 credit, vocational and general interest Part-Time Studies courses. Areas of specialization include food and wine sciences, advanced technology, media, applied health and community safety, supported by unique learning enterprises in food, wine, beer, distilling, horticulture and esthetics. For more information, visit niagaracollege.ca.

 

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Media inquiries, please contact:

 

Julie Greco

Communications Consultant, Niagara College

Call 905-328-2532 / email [email protected]

 

Kim Rossi

Director of Philanthropy & PR, Pathstone Mental Health

Call 905-688-6850 x167 / email [email protected]

 

Virtual activities fill November calendar for Career Month

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Niagara College is ushering in November with a roster of virtual activities to celebrate national Career Month.

Organized by Student Engagement, Academic Advising and Career Services, Career Month events shine a spotlight on offerings and opportunities available to NC students. Activities aim to keep students engaged, assist them with attaining short- and long-term employment, and help them pursue their career goals.

This year, all Career Month activities will be virtual due to the COVID-19 pandemic – and that’s not only the format that has changed, noted Dina Fox, associate director of Student Engagement, Academic Advisement and Career Services.

“Job searching in the virtual world and uncertainty around employment is top of mind for many students,” she said. “We want to encourage them to stay the course, and continue to build their skills and connect the dots on how their academics and co-curricular activities – including participation in sessions focused on skill recognition and skill building – will give them a competitive advantage.”

Career Month events include:

  • November 4 – all-day LEAD Launch including a CCR Tutorial (learn about the program and how to get involved);
  • November 4 – Co-curricular Record (CCR) Tutorial;
  • November 9 – Entrepreneurial Co-op Virtual Exploration Event (3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.);
  • November 10 – MyCareer Tutorial (10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.);
  • November 17 – Blue Mountain Recruitment Event (10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.);
  • November 18 – Essential Employability Skills Workshop (10:30 a.m.-to noon);
  • November 18 – Part-time job search session (1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.);
  • November 25 – Interview Stream Tutorial (9:30 a.m.-to 10:30 a.m.);
  • November 25 – JW Marriott – Rosseau Muskoka Employer Recruitment Event (details to be confirmed); and
  • November 26 – CCR Tutorial (7:30 a.m. and 3 p.m.).

Each Friday in November, there will be a new podcast with a career focus, available on via Apple podcast app or Spotify.

Fox noted that a podcast will address the “new normal” with tips to be successful, and how to network when in-person opportunities may not exist. Students may use tools on their own or with coaching as needed, such as with InterviewStream, which is free to all NC students. Students can also learn how to navigate, utilize resources and access postings on the MyCareer portal, and co-op students can access specialized information on co-op postings and resources.

Ongoing activities also include IGTV videos through LEAD on various topics, LEAD speaker series Alumni Chats with a focus on career; LEAD n Learn events with campus partners focusing on goal setting, and a MyCareer contest with a weekly draw for a gift card.

While November is nationally recognized as Career Month, the College also hosts its own Career Month in January, which aims to prepare students for the annual Career Fair in February.

Students can register for Career Month events via the MyCareer portal’s Career Events page. Students access MyCareer by logging onto their NC Portal, clicking on ‘More Applications,’ then ‘All,’ then scrolling down to select the MyCareer icon.

Niagara College participating in Ontario College Virtual Fair, Nov. 4-5

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Niagara College, along with 23 other Ontario colleges, is participating in the Ontario College Virtual Fair (OCVF), happening on Wednesday, November 4 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Thursday, November 5, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The information fair, which is traditionally held in-person, provides a platform for prospective students to learn everything they need to know about college in one place. This year, the event will be delivered in a fully interactive virtual environment where participants will engage with college representatives using personalized avatars, 3D audio technology and text chat.

Niagara College has over 80 faculty and staff participating in the OCVF, which has been designed to mirror an in-person event with each participating college receiving their own booth space, just like the set up at a live recruitment event.

“Niagara College is looking forward to participating in this reimagined event for prospective students,” said Phil Hayes, NC’s associate director, Recruitment. “This highly interactive fair provides an engaging opportunity for our faculty and staff to share information about Niagara College’s trailblazing programs. Our avatars are ready to connect with participants!”

Participants can expect to:

  • Learn about careers available and which college programs will best prepare them for those careers;
  • Find out about unique programs that can only be offered at Ontario colleges;
  • Get more information on how and when to apply;
  • Hear about campus life, housing, and student services.

Visit the Ontario College Virtual Fair website for registration information: ontariocollegefair.ca

Niagara College offers more than 150 diploma, bachelor degree and advanced level programs; as well as more than 600 credit, vocational and general interest Part-Time Studies courses. Areas of specialization include food and wine sciences, advanced technology, media, applied health and community safety, supported by unique learning enterprises in food, wine, beer, distilling, horticulture and esthetics. For more information, visit niagaracollege.ca.

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Media inquiries, please contact:

Michael Wales
Manager, Communications
Niagara College
Cell: 905-328-4101
[email protected]

Alumnus inspires Class of 2020 to embrace diversity despite adversity, follow dreams

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“Work so hard that your dreams have no choice but to come true.”

It’s not often that a drag queen delivers a convocation address to a class of graduating college students, but Niagara College’s fall class of 2020 heard these words of wisdom from Canada’s Next Drag Superstar on October 30 – a speech from an extraordinary alumnus during an exceptional year as part of an unconventional virtual ceremony.

Guest speaker Mark Suknanan – along with his drag alter ego Priyanka –addressed more than 1,000 new NC graduates and was honoured with the College’s Distinguished Alumni Award just eight years after crossing the stage at his own NC convocation. Soon after graduating from NC’s Broadcasting – Radio, Television and Film program (2012), he worked his way up to becoming the face of several popular children’s programs at YTV. More recently, he/she achieved success as Priyanka, who won the crown on Canada’s Drag Race (2020). It was a journey filled with obstacles and naysayers.

“They look at me and they’re like, ‘oh, we don’t want to hire this dark-skinned person,’ or “oh, he seems a little bit gay; we don’t want to hire him.’ There are so many reasons why people are going to tell us ‘no’ … based on things that they see at face value, not seeing, hearing or understanding the people we are inside, which is a huge problem,” he said.

Heeding advice from his mother, Suknanan refused to take no for an answer or let people treat him differently. He advised the graduates to do the same, encouraging them to be themselves and to go after their dreams as he did.

“We should stick up for what we want to do and do it, as long as we’re doing our jobs correctly and with our hearts in it, because you shouldn’t have to choose between anything,” he said. “I am living proof that no matter what the hurdle is, that we can jump as high as we can to get over the hurdle.

“I know you’re scared. I know you’re worried, you have no clue what your future looks like – but that’s the exciting part.”

College president Sean Kennedy presided over the virtual ceremonies broadcast live from the Welland Campus – along with Fiona Allan, vice president, Academic – and shared advice with the new graduates embarking on the next chapter of their lives during challenging times.

“If there is one thing we’ve all learned this year, it’s the importance of being nimble, flexible and resilient,” said Kennedy. “Know that you will encounter many challenges over the course of your life … it will be up to you to adapt and succeed in the face of adversity,” said Kennedy. “Stay positive, seek help and support, and remember to keep a sense of humour.”

Graduates also heard from the College’s president emeritus Dan Patterson – who ended his tenure as NC’s longest-serving president after 25 years in February – along with video well wishes from College faculty, staff, alumni and more.

The live, virtual ceremonies featured treasured elements of the College’s traditional in-person convocation events – including the reading of each graduate’s name – while leveraging the use of technology and the College’s expertise in broadcasting to connect graduates remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic. Graduates shared the experience with their classmates through Zoom viewing parties and made virtual appearances onscreen during the broadcast. The interactive events also featured live reactions, photos, and messages shared through social media with the hashtag #NCGrad2020.

For a team of the College’s Broadcasting students, virtual convocation served as an applied learning experience. Broadcasting students – alongside staff and faculty – took on various roles behind the scenes, from directing, editing and audio mixing, to camera and teleprompter operators, floor managers and more.

Two ceremonies were held as part of the College’s Fall Convocation. The morning ceremony celebrated the schools of Allied Health, Community Services, Justice and Fitness, and Nursing and Personal Support Worker; while the afternoon ceremony celebrated the schools of Academic, Liberal and Access Studies; Business and Management; Hospitality, Tourism and Sport; Environment and Horticulture; Media; and Trades. The morning ceremony alone drew more than 2,450 views from 36 countries.

NC’s fall ceremonies followed the resounding success of its Virtual Spring Convocation in June, which celebrated 5,000 graduates through 10 ceremonies and drew tens of thousands of viewers from across Niagara, Canada and around the world.

For details, visit the College’s Virtual Convocation site at niagaracollege.ca/virtualconvocation/.

 

Niagara College offers more than 130 diploma, bachelor degree and advanced level programs; as well as more than 600 credit, vocational and general interest Part-time Studies courses. Areas of specialization include food and wine sciences, advanced technology, media, applied health and community safety, supported by unique learning enterprises in food, wine, beer, distilling, horticulture and esthetics. For more information visit niagaracollege.ca.

 

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Media inquiries, please contact:

 

Julie Greco

Communications Consultant, Niagara College

Cell: 905 328 2532

[email protected]

 

Michael Wales

Manager, Corporate Communications

Cell: 905-328-4101

[email protected]

Student success by design: Welland Campus Student Commons wins international award

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A popular student hub at Niagara College is now an internationally award-winning space.

On October 23, the Welland Campus Student Commons – designed by Toronto-based architecture and interior design studio, Gow Hastings Architects – was announced as the Public Space Design winner in the prestigious Society of British and International Interior Design (SBID) International Design Awards 2020.

“This international achievement recognizes Gow Hastings and Niagara College as leaders in putting students first. The Welland Student Commons is a welcoming, accessible hub for students to cultivate community and create memorable on-campus experiences,” said Philip Hastings of Gow Hastings, who was the partner in charge of the Welland Campus Student Commons project. “We couldn’t be happier that our international peers have honoured a project that represents the importance, and possibilities, of student-centred design.”

The Student Commons was part of a $15-million addition and renovation to the Welland Campus Simcoe building, and the College’s $64-million campus redevelopment project that provided new and expanded facilities at the Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake campuses. College staff and students worked closely with Gow Hastings to create a modern, expanded space for students to eat, socialize and collaborate, and it became an instant hit on campus when it opened in September 2018.

“We applaud Gow Hastings on this prestigious award for a project that not only achieves design excellence but has been transformational for our Welland Campus,” said Pam Skinner, NC’s senior vice president, College Operations. “We are thrilled about how this state-of-the-art, student-centred space not only beautifies our campus, but enhances the student experience, and has been embraced by our College community and beyond. It is truly a testament to our commitment to student success.”

The 35,000-square-foot space includes a cafeteria, retail space, activity room, welcome centre and open spaces for learning and study, with hotel-style amenities such as super-scaled LED monitors and a gas fireplace. The addition also provides the College with an alternative entrance.

“Fun and energetic design features set the Student Commons apart as an award-winning space,” noted Hastings. “High clerestories, large mirrors, and sweeping expanses of glass bathe the space in natural light, while playful details including supergraphic chevron and dots, green glass, warm wood, and blue felt, inject the Commons with liveliness that encourages activity and connection.”

In September, the Student Commons was announced as a finalist for the SBID award – known as an unparalleled marquee of industry excellence for the winners. The 2020 SBID International Design awards drew talent from 49 countries around the world. All categories were assessed by panels of leading industry experts who looked for outstanding examples of technical content and aesthetic creativity, and invited the public to cast votes for the finalists.

In addition to winning the SBID Award, the Welland Campus Student Commons was recently featured in The Education Snapshots – a monthly digest of the latest education designs – and was shortlisted for the FX Design Awards 2020 (Public Sector category).

Its success follows the footsteps of the Student Commons at NC’s Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Also designed by Gow Hastings, the NOTL campus Student Commons has received numerous accolades since it opened in December 2016, including Interior Design Best of Year Awards, Honoree (2018); FX International Interior Design Award – Public Sector shortlist (2018); Canadian Interiors Best of Canada Awards (2018); Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario Award (2018); Interior Design Council Value of Design Award (2019); and IIDA Global Excellence Awards Finalist (2019).

For information about the SBID Awards visit internationaldesignexcellenceawards.com/.

Niagara College offers more than 130 diploma, bachelor degree and advanced level programs; as well as more than 600 credit, vocational and general interest Part-time Studies courses. Areas of specialization include food and wine sciences, advanced technology, media, applied health and community safety, supported by unique learning enterprises in food, wine, beer, distilling, horticulture and esthetics. For more information visit niagaracollege.ca.

 

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Media inquiries, please contact:

 

Julie Greco

Communications Consultant, Niagara College

Cell: 905 328 2532

[email protected]

 

Puneet Sidhu

Marketing Director, Gow Hastings Architects

416) 920–0031 x 236

[email protected]

Sean Kennedy formally installed as Niagara College’s sixth president

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Sean Kennedy, who took the helm of Niagara College in February 2020, was formally installed today as Niagara College’s sixth president, during a virtual, internal staff event.

Del Rollo, chair of the Niagara College Board of Governors, presided over the ceremony, which was originally scheduled for the spring, but rescheduled and re-imagined in line with COVID-19 measures and directives.

“While today’s ceremony is certainly different from what we had envisioned in early 2020, it is no less special, no less meaningful, and no less historic – as we celebrate Niagara College’s first new president in a quarter of a century,” Rollo said.

Rollo also acknowledged the unforeseen circumstances that dominated the start of Kennedy’s tenure, while emphasizing the board’s confidence in his ability to lead Niagara College to a new long-term vision in the years ahead.

“The effectiveness of our College’s response to COVID-19, and the ingenuity and resilience that he has inspired in the Niagara College community, serves to underscore what the Board of Governors saw in Sean, when he was selected as president,” he said.

“And as much as we have deep confidence in Sean’s ability to lead Niagara College through this extraordinary time, we also know that he is a gifted and inspiring leader who, with your contributions and support, will guide Niagara College toward a student-focused vision of growth and success, building on our position among Canada’s best colleges, in the years ahead.”

Kennedy began his remarks by reflecting on the event itself, and the importance of looking ahead.

“Given all that’s happened, and the time that has passed since I began as president on February 24, I wondered about the desirability of still holding this special event,” he said. “However, after further reflection, I came to realize that this event is not about me. It’s about Niagara College’s future, and the symbolic start of the next chapter for our college, a new chapter that has been delayed, but not derailed.”

Kennedy acknowledged the unique challenges that came with the start of his term as president, while looking ahead to a post-pandemic period where Niagara College will flourish.

“Although the current pandemic has been all-encompassing for us, this will ultimately be a snapshot in time,” Kennedy said. “We will persevere, and we’ll take important lessons from this extraordinary period, but it will not define our college or our vision for the future. The next chapter in our college’s history is an inspiring story of growth and success that we will write together.”

Kennedy also acknowledged his predecessor, along with former Board of Governors chair John F.T. Scott, and others for their contributions to Niagara College.

“I am also very grateful to John Scott, former Board Chair, as well as my predecessor, the incomparable Dr. Dan Patterson, and all of the incredible leaders who have come before me along with our retirees and pioneers, our alumni, donors and community supporters all of whom have helped to build what I consider to be the top College in all of Canada,” he said.

John F.T. Scott, chair of the Board of Governors and its selection committee when Kennedy was appointed, offered Kennedy best wishes via a recorded greeting.

“You have demonstrated that our confidence in you was so well placed; you were indeed the right person at the right time,” Scott said. “May you and Niagara College thrive now and well into the future.”

As part of the ceremony, Kennedy was presented with the presidential robes by his spouse, Kerry Kennedy, and he affirmed an oath to faithfully fulfill the duties of the President of Niagara College, emphasizing his commitment to the wellbeing and success of its students, faculty and staff, preserving the strong connections between Niagara College and the communities it serves, and protecting and promoting the welcoming, passionate and trailblazing characteristics that define Niagara College.

Kennedy’s selection as Niagara College’s sixth president was announced on January 10, and he assumed the role on February 24. Kennedy joined Niagara College in 2014 and has held several positions on the College’s executive team, including vice president, Student and External Relations and CEO of the Niagara College Foundation, interim vice president, Academic, vice president, International and senior vice president, International.

Kennedy succeeds Dan Patterson, who led Niagara College for 25 years before concluding his tenure in early 2020.

Niagara College offers more than 150 diploma, bachelor degree and advanced level programs; as well as more than 600 credit, vocational and general interest Part-Time Studies courses. Areas of specialization include food and wine sciences, advanced technology, media, applied health and community safety, supported by unique learning enterprises in food, wine, beer, distilling, horticulture and esthetics. For more information visit niagaracollege.ca.

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Media inquiries, please contact:

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

Niagara’s young women to hear from inspiring females, learn about careers in trades and technology

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Starting this month and continuing through Spring 2021, Niagara College will play virtual host to female high school students across Niagara who will explore careers in trades and technology. Exploring Your Future – Dream It, Believe It, Do It is a new partnership between NC, DSBN, Niagara Catholic and event sponsor OPG to make female students aware of the many lucrative career pathways that exist in industries they may not have traditionally considered.

Exploring Your Future – Dream It, Believe It, Do It keynote speaker Jessica Polak, Ontario Power Generation’s senior projects director, Darlington Nuclear Refurbishment

The online series kicks off on Thursday, October 29 at 3:30 p.m. via Zoom, where over 120 students will have the opportunity to hear from female mentors whose stories, experiences, and advice will inspire young women to think about exciting careers in trades and technology. Guests include keynote speaker Jessica Polak, OPG’s senior projects director, Darlington Nuclear Refurbishment, and Lisa Caruso, a professor in NC’s Mechanical Techniques program.

“Ontario Power Generation is proud to sponsor this collaborative event, which is about giving young women an opportunity to explore careers related to math, science and technology,” said Polak. “Hopefully, these interactive sessions will spark their interest in furthering their education in these areas.”

“I have enjoyed a career as a tool and die maker in the manufacturing industry for over 25 years, and now I am fortunate to help train the future generation of skilled workers,” said Caruso. “I hope that sharing my experience will inspire young women to consider a career in the trades and encourage more female representation in the industry.”

Students will have the opportunity to learn more about specific career paths through additional events that they can register for based on their interests.

Future sector-specific events include:

  • Thursday, November 26, 2020: Construction – with Annette Dearling-Manchester, professor, School of Trades, Niagara College
  • Thursday, February 18, 2021: Motive Power – with Emily Chung, licensed automotive service technician and owner, AutoNiche Auto Repair Services
  • Thursday, March 11, 2021: Industrial and Power Technologies – with electrical & control technicians from Ontario Power Generation
  • Thursday, April 29, 2021: Service Sector – with Selah Schmoll, co-owner, Incoho restaurant

All events will be held at 3:30 p.m. via Zoom.

In advance of each event, registrants will receive an event package filled with career resources, as well as a program guide and swag from NC.

“Students will also get materials sent to them so they can participate in hands-on activities during the virtual sector-specific events, from wherever they’re tuning in from,” said Jill Russell, DSBN Consultant for Technological Education and the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program. “Our students really value the chance to hear from strong, enthusiastic, and accomplished female mentors, so it’s important that we’ve been creative and moved this opportunity online.”

“This is an incredible opportunity for the young women in Niagara, to learn from trailblazers who are leading the way in the skilled trades and technology,” said Ivana Galante, Niagara Catholic’s Business-Techology/Specialist High Skills Major/Co-op/Ontario Youth Apprenticeship consultant. I encourage all of our participants to keep an open mind and be willing to learn about the amazing opportunities available to them.”

Female students interested in registering or learning more about these events are encouraged to reach out to their school guidance counsellor.

The Exploring Your Future series is the latest effort from NC and its valued partners to inspire young women to seek career opportunities in trades and technology. Both school boards have held previous in-person events encouraging female high school students to explore traditionally male-dominated fields.

Comments from past student participants

“Hearing from successful female mentors has really changed my perspective. I will definitely keep an open mind about going into the trades.” – A grade 10 DSBN student

“The main message I will take from this event is to be open to new opportunities. Girls can do anything they put their mind to and do it with power and strive to be great.” – A Grade 10 Niagara Catholic student

Niagara College offers more than 150 diploma, bachelor degree and advanced level programs; as well as more than 600 credit, vocational and general interest Part-Time Studies courses. Areas of specialization include food and wine sciences, advanced technology, media, applied health and community safety, supported by unique learning enterprises in food, wine, beer, distilling, horticulture and esthetics. For more information, visit niagaracollege.ca.

The District School Board of Niagara (DSBN) is the largest public school board in Niagara. The DSBN serves over 37,000 elementary and secondary students in elementary and secondary schools across the Niagara region. The DSBN is committed to ensuring all students have the individual support and resources they need to reach their full potential. For more information, visit dsbn.org.

Niagara Catholic provides excellence in Catholic education to 21,000 students throughout Niagara. We nurture the souls and build the minds of our students, from Kindergarten through graduation.

OPG is a climate change leader and the largest clean electricity generator in the province, providing more than half of the power Ontarians rely on every day. It is also one of the most diverse generators in North America, with expertise in nuclear, hydroelectric, biomass, solar and natural gas technologies.

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Media inquiries, please contact:

Michael Wales
Manager, Communications
Niagara College
Cell: 905-328-4101
[email protected]

Carolyn LoConte
Communications Officer
District School Board of Niagara
Office: 905-641-1550 ext. 54162
Cell: 289-219-4302
[email protected]

Jennifer Pellegrini
Communications Officer
Niagara Catholic
905.735.0240 ext. 297
905.651.3818
[email protected]

OPG Media Relations
416-592-4008 or 1-877-592-4008
follow us @OPG

Lights, camera, convocation! Niagara College to broadcast live, virtual ceremonies for fall grads

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They may not be able to celebrate in person, but Niagara College is shining the spotlight on its fall 2020 graduates with a virtual event to remember, along with an alumnus guest speaker ready to take the stage.

On Friday, October 30, NC’s Virtual Fall Convocation ceremonies will celebrate more than 1,000 new graduates of NC’s Class of 2020, and mark a virtual homecoming for TV personality and drag queen Mark Suknanan, who will deliver the convocation address and will be presented with the College’s Distinguished Alumni Award.

During the eight years since he crossed the stage at his own convocation, the NC Broadcasting – Radio, Television and Film alumnus (2012), known as Suki, became the face of YTV shows including The Zone and Next Star Nation. His drag alter ego, Priyanka, also catapulted into the limelight; most recently, winning the hearts of judges and fans of reality TV series Canada’s Drag Race (2020) as he/she was crowned Canada’s Next Drag Superstar.

“This is incredible! I am so excited to be a part of this,” said Suknanan. “It wasn’t that long ago, at Niagara College, that I was inspired to follow my dreams. I hope to do the same for this year’s graduates.”

“We look forward to welcoming back alumnus Mark Suknanan as our fall convocation speaker,” said College president Sean Kennedy. “His powerful message about his journey to success will surely inspire our new class of graduates.”

The live, interactive virtual ceremonies will contain many treasured elements of the College’s traditional in-person convocation events– including inspiring speeches and the reading of each graduate’s name – while leveraging the use of technology and the College’s expertise in broadcasting to connect graduates remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic.

While president Kennedy and vice president, Academic, Fiona Allan will address viewers live from the Welland Campus, viewers will also hear from the College’s president emeritus Dan Patterson – who ended his tenure as NC’s longest-serving president after 25 years in February – along with video well wishes from College faculty, staff, alumni and more.

As they watch the livestream ceremony, graduates are invited to connect with their classmates through zoom viewing parties and make a virtual appearance during the ceremony broadcast. The College has also created a custom social media experience for graduates and guests to post and view live reactions, photos, and messages during the ceremonies shared with the hashtag #NCGrad2020.

Virtual convocation serves as applied learning in action for a team of the College’s Broadcasting students who – alongside staff and faculty – take on various roles behind the scenes, from directing, editing and audio mixing, to camera and teleprompter operators, floor managers and more.

“I’m tremendously proud of how Niagara College has risen above the challenge of hosting convocation during a global pandemic, by truly breaking new ground with our virtual ceremonies,” said Kennedy. “Our innovative model for Virtual Convocation, which was a resounding success in the spring, enables our 2020 graduates to mark their special milestone achievement in a meaningful, interactive way; connecting them with their families, classmates and friends in real time, ‘NC Together.’”

The upcoming fall ceremonies follow the resounding success of NC’s Virtual Spring Convocation in June, which celebrated 5,000 graduates through 10 ceremonies and drew tens of thousands of viewers from across Niagara, Canada and around the world.

Two virtual ceremonies will be held this fall: a morning ceremony at 10 a.m. (schools of Allied Health, Community Services, Justice and Fitness, Nursing and Personal Support Worker), and an afternoon ceremony at 2 p.m. (schools of Academic, Liberal and Access Studies; Business and Management; Hospitality, Tourism and Sport; Environment and Horticulture; Media; and Trades).

Visit the College’s Virtual Convocation site to view the schedule or to access the livestream ceremonies at niagaracollege.ca/virtualconvocation/.

 

Niagara College offers more than 130 diploma, bachelor degree and advanced level programs; as well as more than 600 credit, vocational and general interest Part-time Studies courses. Areas of specialization include food and wine sciences, advanced technology, media, applied health and community safety, supported by unique learning enterprises in food, wine, beer, distilling, horticulture and esthetics. For more information visit niagaracollege.ca.

 

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Media inquiries, please contact:

 

Julie Greco

Communications Consultant, Niagara College

Cell: 905 328 2532

[email protected]

 

Michael Wales

Manager, Corporate Communications

Cell: 905-328-4101

[email protected]