NC hosts second day of virtual convocation: Celebrating ‘lessons learned along the way’

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The celebration of achievement and lessons learned shared centre stage as Niagara College hosted its second day of Virtual Spring Convocation on June 16.

Guest speaker Clara Hughes, six-time Olympic medalist and mental health advocate, encouraged the Class of 2020 to take time and reflect on both as they celebrate their special milestone.

“Though we’re all spread around Canada and around the world right now in the global health pandemic, I hope that one thing doesn’t change for you, and that one thing is celebration. I hope you take time to be present in this beautiful moment you’ve worked so hard for and truly celebrate with your friends, your family, and with yourself,” said Hughes, who received an Honorary Diploma in Health Studies.

“When I look back at all of the decades in sport, all of the races I competed in, I don’t so much look at the successes … the things that stand out are the lessons learned along the way. And those lessons, sometimes they came from the most unexpected teachers.”

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College president Sean Kennedy shared several lessons he has learned with the graduating students. He spoke about the importance of being your own person, embracing lifelong learning, building relationships and embracing challenge.

College president Sean Kennedy addresses the Class of 2020 from the Welland Campus during the livestream broadcast on June 16.

“Always remember that the bigger the challenge, the more your skills, creativity and determination will be tested,” he said. “These challenges may leave you exhausted and uncertain. All of them will be opportunities for growth, and the seeds of good memories and stories down the road.”

Almost 500 new graduates were celebrated from the School of Justice and Fitness Studies, and School of Allied Health during the afternoon ceremony, where two students were honoured with Dean’s Awards.

Paramedic grad and Dean's Award recipient Philip Borowski is currently working in Niagara and Toronto.

Philip Borowski, the Dean’s Award recipient from the School of Allied Health, has been working as a paramedic for Niagara Emergency Medical Services and Toronto Paramedic Services, since completing his studies. The Toronto resident views his decision to become a paramedic after retiring from his soccer career as one of the most rewarding decisions he has ever made. Prior to entering the Paramedic program, he completed the College’s Pre-Health Sciences one-year certificate program in 2018.

“Being in the Paramedic program at NC has been an absolutely fantastic time for me. I have an amazing group of friends that were all hired with me at Niagara EMS, and have been a constant source of inspiration and motivation,” said Borowski. “I am forever grateful for the guidance I’ve received from my professors, and glad to have been taught by each and every one of them.”

Police Foundations graduate and Dean's Award winner Emmanuel Scott dreams of becoming a police constable.

Police Foundations student Emmanuel Scott, who received the Dean’s Award from the School of Justice and Fitness Studies, views graduation as one step closer to pursuing his dream of becoming a police constable.

“I’ve always known that I needed to be in a profession where I can help people,” said Scott, 37. “From opening doors at the store to stopping collisions at the roadside, I’m always doing what I can to provide assistance.”

Scott enrolled in the program after years of working in numerous retail and sales positions. While his move to Niagara meant being temporarily apart from his wife who was operating a business in Northern Ontario, it was an emotional decision they considered necessary for the betterment of their futures.

“We had nightly FaceTime calls over dinner and often prepared the same meals,” said Scott, who currently lives in Niagara-on-the-Lake and has been working extra shifts as a security guard since COVID-19 hit. “I suppose you could say it even prepared us for the current pandemic.”

During the morning ceremony, the College celebrated 380 new graduates from its Canadian Food and Wine Institute who have learned in unique learning environments including Canada’s commercial Teaching Winery, Teaching Brewery and Teaching Distillery – all located at its Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Winery and Viticulture Technician grad Sydney Neumann received the Dean's Award on the morning of June 16.

The College’s reputation in the winemaking industry is what drew graduating student and Dean’s Award winner Sydney Neumann of Thornbury, Ont., to the Winery and Viticulture Technician program. Neumann, 23, noted that the best part of the program was her direct involvement in the on-site vineyard, winery and labs – as well as her off-site co-op experience at Stratus Vineyards in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

“I think this is a learning opportunity that can be hard to find but is essential to the enhancement of student learning,” she said. “The teaching staff at NC are infectiously passionate for both wine and the passing down of knowledge. They helped inspire that same passion within myself and are dedicated to the pursuits of their students.”

More than 5,000 students will graduate from Niagara College during its Virtual Spring Convocation week, which began on June 15 and will continue twice a day – at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. – up to and including June 19. The interactive live ceremonies offer graduates a chance to connect with their classmates via Zoom parties held alongside the ceremonies, as well as an opportunity to smile and cheer on-screen during the live broadcast after graduate names are called out from their program areas.

Numerous video well wishes from faculty, staff, administrators and alumni are played during the ceremonies, as well as greetings from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Minister of Colleges and Universities Ross Romano, and Niagara regional chair Jim Bradley.

The first day of the virtual ceremonies drew more than 17,500 livestream views from 63 countries around the world.

Visit the College’s Virtual Convocation site to view the schedule or to access the livestream ceremonies sat 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.

Top photo: College president Sean Kennedy and senior VP Steve Hudson join a Zoom party during the livestream ceremony for Culinary Management (Co-op) students on the morning of June 16.

Convocation 2020 media releases:

June 15: Niagara College community unites to celebrate Class of 2020

June 12: Niagara College’s top graduate reaches for higher calling

June 10: Six-time Olympic medalist Clara Hughes to address Niagara College Class of 2020

 

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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]

Niagara College community unites to celebrate Class of 2020

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June 15 was a day of many firsts at Niagara College – the first day of its first-ever Virtual Convocation ceremonies, to celebrate its first class of graduates who completed their studies remotely at a time in history like no other. But for 1,270 students who marked the special milestone from their homes, it was the first day of the rest of their lives.

While they may not have been able to gather in person, the Niagara College community joined together online and in droves, from Niagara and around the world, to celebrate its graduating class of 2020. The College kicked off Day One of Virtual Convocation with more than 10,000 viewers from more than 25 countries around the world, who watched the livestream from the College website and via social media – for the morning ceremony alone.

The morning ceremony honoured 696 new graduates from the School of Business and Management, while the afternoon ceremony celebrated 574 graduates from the School of Hospitality, Tourism and Sport, and School of Business and Management.

The ceremonies acknowledged that the new graduates not only faced the challenge of completing their studies remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic but are embarking on the next chapter of their lives in a changed world.

College president Sean Kennedy called convocation a “snapshot in time.” He encouraged the new graduates to embrace lifelong learning and understand that experience can be the best teacher.

“Don’t be afraid to confront yourself and your beliefs, and be willing to change. The Black Lives Matter movement asks exactly this of each of us, to pause and examine ourselves and our social systems, to stand in solidarity against racism and injustice, and to be spurred to action to make real change,” said Kennedy. “We must grow and push society forward; that is the essence of lifelong learning – both individually and collectively.”

Kennedy also encouraged the Class of 2020 to embrace as opportunities for growth.

“There is one thing we’ve all learned over the past few months: it’s the importance of being nimble, flexible and resilient. Know that you will encounter many challenges over the course of your life,” he said. “Unexpected hurdles will appear – some big, some small – and it will be up to you to adapt and to succeed in the face of adversity. Stay positive and remember to keep a sense of humour.”

GClara Hughes receives her Honorary Diploma.

Six-time Olympian and mental health advocate Clara Hughes, the special guest speaker for NC’s Spring Convocation Ceremonies, addressed graduates by video from Canmore, Alberta. Hughes noted that while she went to the University of Calgary for 10 years, her time was spent training to earn Olympic hardware, rather than an academic credential.

“To say that I’m humbled to receive this honorary diploma in Health Studies from Niagara College is an understatement and I thank you,” she said.

As part of the formal program live-streamed from the Welland Campus, the ceremonies featured name call-outs for each individual graduate. It also incorporated numerous well-wishes from across the College community – from NC faculty, staff and administrators; the College’s Board of Governors chair John Scott; College Student Administrative Council president Tom Price; and several members of its alumni community.

Business Sales and Marketing students greet viewers from their Zoom party during the live morning ceremony.

Video messages also addressed graduates from well beyond the College – including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Minister of Colleges and Universities Ross Romano, and Niagara regional chair Jim Bradley.

Social media provided an interactive and immersive experience like never before. The College hosted Zoom parties for separate program areas simultaneously during the ceremonies to connect the new graduates with their classmates and faculty.

Graduates also appeared onscreen as the broadcast intermittently featured live captures from the Zoom parties – waving and cheering, holding up signs, or together with their families as they marked their special milestone from their homes.

Known as the highlight of the academic year, convocation celebrated student achievement. The School of Business Management honoured Business- Accounting graduate Guiseppina Marino with a Dean’s Award. The 38-year-old enrolled at NC to pursue her dreams of becoming an accountant after 15 years of experience in the catering industry in Italy.

Marino noted that she was grateful for being able to complete her studies remotely during COVID-19 and for the opportunity to attend virtual convocation.

“I feel excited … my family has the opportunity to watch it from the safety of their home in Italy,” said Marino, who currently lives in St. Catharines. “I feel really grateful and lucky for how it went, and satisfied about graduating at this unprecedented time in history. College and students have demonstrated that wanting is power, and that with everyone’s effort, nothing is impossible!”

Sport Management graduate Wesley Abraham – who was named the Dean’s Award from the School of Hospitality and Tourism at the afternoon ceremony – noted that his pursuit of a career in sport business is now put on hold due to COVID-19. However, he valued the hands-on experience he gained at the College – including an internship working with the Welland Jackfish baseball organization for the 2019 season.

“I do feel that my time and diploma from Niagara College has given me a stable foundation with which to pursue my ultimate goal,” said Abraham, who is originally from Mississauga and currently resides in St. Catharines.

Day One of NC’s Spring Convocation Ceremonies also marked the first graduating cohort of the College’s Honours Bachelor of Business Administration – Human Resources program.

More than 5,000 students will graduate from Niagara College during its Virtual Spring Convocation Ceremonies, which will continue twice a day – at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. – up to and including June 19.

Visit the College’s Virtual Convocation site to view the schedule or to access the livestream ceremonies 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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Convocation 2020 media releases:

June 12: Niagara College’s top graduate reaches for higher calling

June 10: Six-time Olympic medalist Clara Hughes to address Niagara College Class of 2020

 

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]

Niagara College’s top graduate reaches for higher calling

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For Niagara College’s top graduating student Kariann Gracey, achievement is not just about making the grade – it’s about making a difference.

As the College prepares to celebrate Spring Convocation with five days of virtual ceremonies beginning June 15, the lifelong St. Catharines resident stands out as head of NC’s Class of 2020. On June 18, she will officially graduate from the Social Service Worker program with a 97.67% grade-point average and as the recipient of the most prestigious award a Canadian student can receive – the Governor General’s Academic Medal.

“Kariann is known by faculty for being outstanding – both as a student and as a person,” said Carolyn Triemstra, dean of Community and Health Studies. “Her exceptional performance during the two-year program demonstrates an extraordinary level of professional commitment in both academics and her program placements, and we know she will be a tremendous asset to the social services field.”

Gracey is driven by her passion for social work and her mission to advocate for society’s most vulnerable.

“The Governor General’s Academic Medal really just affirms for me that I am making the right steps toward my goals,” she said. “Achieving high grades is one small part in my pursuit to learn all the material I possibly can to better assist those who are disadvantaged or oppressed by systems in our society.”

Gracey has a history of strong academic achievement. In 2017, she was awarded the dean’s medal when she graduated from university with an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology.

“I’ve always had a fire to know I wanted better for myself and others,” she said. “I have a constant need to reinvent myself and take in knowledge.”

Gracey’s interest in social service stems from life experience. She noted how those close to her have struggled with grief, addiction, mental health, disabilities and health issues; and how she has personally experienced chronic mental health issues along with a tendency to push herself to the point of exhaustion.

“I have been a helper since I was a child and I know that the disadvantaged should have more people fighting for them, supporting them,” she said. “So, naturally, I went into social work.”

Prior to enrolling at the College, Gracey worked in the social services field at a local rehabilitation group home for people with brain injuries, and in harm reduction outreach for those with active addictions. Through her NC program placements, she gained valuable experience working with those experiencing emotional and behavioural difficulties at Pathstone Mental Health, and in addictions counselling at New Port Centre.

“Both of my supervisors and the staff from both agencies were incredibly supportive and helped me grow a great deal as a professional,” she said.

Gracey also had an opportunity to travel on a NC Be World Ready trip to Guatemala where she learned firsthand from health professionals and social workers who provide programs without government support.

“We can learn here in Canada that as long as you know there is a need, there is a way to coordinate and implement programs,” she said. “There is always a way.”

Since completing her studies, Gracey been putting the skills and knowledge she acquired at NC to work. She has begun training in a new job to support the safety and wellbeing of Niagara families and children.

“It is a very challenging job to do and it’s not for everyone, but the more I learn in training, the more excited I am to get out there,” she said.

Gracey also plans to pursue her master’s degree in social work and try her hand at clinical practice.

As she closes the chapter on her studies at NC, Gracey noted how she valued meeting like-minded people through the Social Service Worker program who are passionate about their work and their clients.

“These people have inspired me to keep moving forward,” she said.

Niagara College will celebrate its 5,000 spring graduates with its first-ever virtual convocation ceremonies from June 15-19. Visit the College’s Virtual Convocation site to view the schedule or to access the livestream ceremonies: niagaracollege.ca/virtualconvocation/.

For more than 140 years, the Governor General’s Academic Medals have recognized the outstanding scholastic achievements of students in Canada. They are awarded to the student graduating with the highest average from a high school, as well as from approved college or university programs. Visit gg.ca.

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]

 

 

Six-time Olympic medalist Clara Hughes to address Niagara College Class of 2020

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Clara Hughes will deliver the convocation address to Niagara College’s Class of 2020.

Niagara College is ready to bring on the pomp, despite the circumstance, for its graduating class of 2020.

From June 15 to June 19, the College will celebrate its 5,000 spring graduates with its first-ever virtual convocation ceremonies. The virtual events will incorporate cherished elements of its traditional ceremonies – such as speeches, student awards and name call-outs – while optimizing technology to create an interactive experience for the graduates, who have been unable to return to campus since mid-March due to COVID-19.

The ceremonies will feature special guest speaker Clara Hughes. The six-time Olympic medalist and mental health advocate will address the College’s 2020 graduates by video message during the ceremonies and will receive an Honorary Diploma in Health Studies from the College.

“Convocation is truly the highlight of our academic year, and our innovative College community has gone above and beyond to ensure it will be one to remember for our Class of 2020 and their families,” said Niagara College president Sean Kennedy. “We are excited to announce Clara Hughes as our spring convocation speaker and honorary diploma recipient.

“Clara’s track record of outstanding accomplishment and dedication, both as an athlete and as a mental health advocate, will surely inspire our new graduates as they embark on the next chapter of their lives during this extraordinary time.”

“I’m so excited to announce that I’m your commencement speaker this year,” said Clara Hughes in a video message addressing Niagara College’s Class of 2020.

While she currently lives in Canmore, Alberta, Hughes noted that as a young cyclist, she had the great gift of racing in the Niagara region while living in Hamilton.

“What a stimulating and naturally beautiful learning environment,” said Hughes. “With the trailblazing programs offered by Niagara College, I can’t imagine a more perfect place setting for academic excellence and personal growth.”

NC’s Virtual Convocation Ceremonies – to be held at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. daily throughout convocation week – will be livestreamed from the College’s Welland Campus, while incorporating speeches and well wishes through video feeds and social media. Graduates will have the opportunity to connect with their classmates and professors in real-time through Zoom chats, which will be held alongside the ceremonies.

Participants and well-wishers are encouraged to use the social media hashtag #NCgrad2020. Likes, comments and reactions will be visible from the livestream ceremonies.

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

About Clara Hughes

After spending half her life striving to be the fastest person in the world, six-time Olympic medalist Clara Hughes decided to switch gears and “slow down to the pace of a human being.”

This led her to hike over 16,000 kilometres, where she discovered the healing power of movement. In her candid, personal talks, Hughes explores how movement can change lives, and draws from her experience living with depression to inspire audiences to face their fears, find their voice, and become the champions they’re meant to be.

Hughes is the only athlete in Olympic history to win multiple medals in both summer and winter Games, representing Canada in both speed skating and cycling. In addition, she served as Team Canada’s flag-bearer at the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Games.

As the founding spokesperson for Bell Let’s Talk, a campaign designed to end the stigma attached to mental illness, Hughes helped jumpstart the conversation on mental wellness. In 2014, she completed a 110-day national bicycle tour through every province and territory in Canada called ‘Clara’s Big Ride.’ She covered more than 11,000 kilometres, visited 105 communities and hosted over 235 events to raise awareness for mental health. She is also the author of the bestselling memoir, Open Heart, Open Mind.

Over the course of her distinguished career, Hughes has won countless awards and accolades. She was awarded the International Olympic Committee’s Sport and Community Trophy, honoured with a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame, inducted into Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame, and named a member of the Order of Manitoba, and an Officer of the Order of Canada.

In her effort to lead a life in motion, Hughes has completed the ‘Triple Crown’ of long-distance hiking — the Pacific Crest Trail, the Continental Divide Trail, and the Appalachian Trail — and continues to this day, to find deep meaning in outdoor adventure pursuits.

 

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]

 

Niagara College Public Relations student wins prestigious award

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Ashlan MacDonald, who will be graduating from the Public Relations program on June 17, is the winner of a CPRS Hamilton Student Award of Excellence.

Niagara College Public Relations (Graduate Certificate) student Ashlan MacDonald didn’t need to wait until graduation to steal the spotlight.

On June 2, she was announced as one of two winners of the Canadian Public Relations Society Hamilton Chapter Student Award of Excellence. This award is given annually to one or two students graduating from full-time postsecondary undergraduate or post-graduate certificate PR programs in Hamilton, Halton and Niagara.

For MacDonald, 21, receiving the CPRS Hamilton Student Award of Excellence was extremely meaningful.

“I worked hard and put in extra time throughout the entire school year. I always made sure that when a volunteer or networking opportunity presented itself, I took it,” she said. “This award recognizes that all of the hard work I did was worth it, and I am thrilled to be a recipient.”

MacDonald – a St. Catharines resident originally from Barrie – enrolled in the College’s PR program after graduating with a degree in Business Communications from Brock University. Her experience in Niagara College’s Public Relations program proved to be “life-changing.”

“When I left Brock, I knew I wasn’t quite ready to enter the workforce; I felt like I was missing something. Niagara College’s Public Relations program fully equipped me with all of the skills I needed to feel confident and educated enough to enter the workforce,” she said. “All of the teachers in this program care incredibly about the students. It is always a good feeling to have someone who is behind you in everything you do.”

PR program professor Emily McInerney, who nominated MacDonald for the award, applauded her academic excellence, leadership capability and public relations proficiency. McInerney noted that she attended a number of industry events, and was selected to participate in the CPRS Hamilton’s student mentorship program.

“Ashlan is very deserving of this award. She was a strong performer, academically, across all of her classes and put 110 percent into everything she did,” said McInerney. “She was also laser focused on networking and building relationships with PR professionals from a variety of sectors.”

CPRS Hamilton co-presidents Dustin Manley and Christine Szustaczek noted that MacDonald is the latest among several NC graduates who have earned this prestigious award over the years. Last year, it was won by two NC PR students – Katie McCabe and Shianne Stephens.

“As co-presidents of CPRS Hamilton, and educators and academic administrators in our professional lives, the Student Award of Excellence is especially important to us,” said Manley and Szustaczek. “We are proud to recognize Ashlan as one of this year’s recipients and look forward to the incredible things she will do in her career.”

MacDonald is currently working as a digital media specialist with Farmwork to Feed Canada, a volunteer effort by communications, PR and food industry partners to support Canadian farmers during the COVID-19 pandemic. She looks forward to attending her virtual convocation ceremony on June 17.

Niagara College’s Public Relations program is a one-year graduate certificate. For information visit niagaracollege.ca/media/program/public-relations/.

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]

Niagara College kicks off Pride Month with rainbow flag raising

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Rainbow flags will fly over Niagara College campuses this June, to celebrate equality, inclusivity, and acceptance in support of the College’s LGBTQ2+ community during Pride Month.

With physical distancing measures in place, Niagara College president Sean Kennedy and Niagara College Student Administrative Council president Tom Price led a flag-raising ceremony at the Welland Campus on the morning of June 1. A flag was also raised at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

“The Niagara College Student Administrative Council believes it is imperative to foster an unrestricted awareness of inclusivity and equity, and it is our resolute desire to provide a welcoming and safe space for all individuals and communities at Niagara College,” said Price. “The Rainbow Flag raising is a collaborative partnership with Niagara College that is symbolic of our unwavering support for not only the LGBTQ2+ community, and other marginalized communities, but for all students, faculty, support staff, administrators, and visitors at the College. Now, more than ever, it is imperative that we work together as a community to strengthen and support each other.”

In addition to raising the rainbow flag for the month of June, in 2019, rainbow crosswalks were painted at both campuses as permanent markers of support for not only the LGBTQ2+ community on campus, but all communities and students at Niagara College.

“The rainbow flag raising event is a new tradition for Niagara College, and one that we felt was important to continue this year, even while we are physically apart, as it signifies our commitment to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment and workplace,” said Niagara College president Sean Kennedy. “An important part of Niagara College’s DNA is our welcoming nature and we are proud to work with our Student Administrative Council to celebrate our LGBTQ2+ community.”

Niagara College student Dalton Bird joined Kennedy and Price for the flag-raising ceremony. Bird, a second-year student in the Business Administration Human Resources three-year advanced diploma program, is an advocate for the College’s LGBTQ2+ community as the current vice president of NCSAC’s Loving Out Loud (LOL) Club. Under Bird’s leadership, the Club was recently nominated for a 2020 Pride Niagara Unity Award.

“The raising of the rainbow flag at Niagara College is a symbol of inclusiveness,” said Bird. “Niagara College is a very inclusive environment that allows students to express themselves.”

In addition to the flag raising, NCSAC will celebrate Pride Month with several virtual initiatives throughout the month of June:

  • NCSAC Ask Me Anything (AMA) live Instagram feature with NCSAC LOL Club president Felipe Reis and vice-president Dalton Bird on June 4 at 1 p.m. The AMA will highlight the club and their Pride Niagara Unity Award nomination, while promoting the Pride Niagara Awards taking place June 5.
  • In partnership with NC’s Centre for Student Engagement and Leadership (CSEL), members of the NCSAC and LGBTQ2+ community will appear on CSEL’s Go To College They Said podcast. CSEL and NCSAC will co-host a podcast episode with guests Enzo DeDevitiis from Pride Niagara and Vanity a la mode the week of June 1, while Felipe Reis, NCSAC’s LOL Club president, will join the podcast the week of June 8. The podcast is available on iTunes, Spotify and the Podcast App and weekly episodes are typically released on Thursdays.

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, spirits, horticulture and esthetics. For more information visit niagaracollege.ca.

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Pictured above (L-R):
Niagara College Student Administrative Council president Tom Price, Niagara College president Sean Kennedy, and Dalton Bird, NC student and vice president of the NC Student Administrative Council’s Loving Out Loud Club, celebrate the raising of a rainbow flag at the Welland Campus in recognition of Pride Month on June 1.


Media inquiries, please contact:

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

 

Andy Hall
Marketing Communications Manager, NCSAC
Cell: 905-537-0438
[email protected]

Niagara College 2020 Victoria Day hours

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While Niagara College campuses remain closed until further notice due to the evolving COVID-19 situation, some services are operating virtually, or via alternative delivery, and NC’s learning enterprises are offering curbside pickup.

What’s open on Victoria Day?

Retail store at the Wine Visitor + Education Centre: Open Monday, May 18. Curbside pickup is available daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Wine, Visitor + Education Centre for online orders of products from the Teaching Winery, Teaching Distillery and Teaching Brewery. To place an order, call 905-641-2252 ext. 4070 or visit niagaracollegewine.ca.

Here is a list of services being offered virtually, or via curbside pickup, that are closed on the Victoria Day statutory holiday but resume May 19.

Community Employment Services (43 Church St. in St. Catharines): Closed Monday. Virtual services resume on Tuesday, May 19 and are available weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit the CES website for more information.
Enrolment Services: Closed Monday. Virtual services resume on Tuesday, May 19.
NC Teaching Greenhouse: Closed Monday. Open for curbside pickup daily resuming on Tuesday, May 19. Visit the Teaching Greenhouse’s online store to place an order and learn more.
ncLibraries and Learning Commons: Virtual services will resume on Tuesday, May 19 and online resources are available 24-7 at niagaracollege.ca/library.
Student Centres and NCSAC offices: Closed Monday. Virtual services resume on Tuesday, May 19.
For a comprehensive list of services and resources available remotely or virtually to assist students during this unprecedented time, visit: Virtual Campus: Remote Services, Resources for Students. Please check this page frequently as additional services and resources will continue to be updated until campuses reopen for classes.

Transit
Reduced schedules to provide essential travel only service with some transit providers not operating on Monday, May 18. Please check with individual transit providers for adjusted schedules and closures.

Niagara Region Transit
St. Catharines Transit Commission
Welland Transit (including Port Colborne)
Niagara Falls Transit

NC to celebrate Class of 2020 with Virtual Spring Convocation Ceremonies

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NC’s Class of 2020 is unlike any other in our  history and the College is planning convocation celebrations to match.

Plans are underway for NC’s first-ever Virtual Spring Convocation Ceremonies to be held during the week of June 15.  View ceremony schedule here. Graduating students will be able to mark the milestone #ncTogether with their classmates, professors and the college community, and invite their friends and families to celebrate along with them.

The live-streamed virtual ceremonies will feature many of the treasured traditional elements of the in-person convocation ceremonies. Participants will be able to hear each graduate’s name read aloud, and listen to inspiring speeches from College officials and special guest speakers. Student awards will be announced and well wishes from faculty and staff will be shared in the moment.

A custom social media experience will be incorporated into the virtual events featuring live reactions, photos and messages to connect graduating students with their classmates, professors and loved ones.

More details regarding virtual convocation will be available in the weeks ahead.

The College also plans to invite the Class of 2020 back to campus for an in-person celebration in the future, once public health circumstances allow large groups to gather safely.

Please view the video message from College president Sean Kennedy and NC Student Administrative Council president Tom Price above or click here.

Niagara College-led network for manufacturing innovation mobilizes in fight against COVID-19

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Niagara College researchers are providing innovative solutions to help those on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic and are leading a network of Ontario academic institutions who are mobilizing to do the same.

The NC-led consortium under the umbrella of the Southern Ontario Network for Advanced Manufacturing Innovation (SONAMI) is answering a call from the federal government to provide a high-quality, rapid response to the COVID-19 crisis and meet the need for critical health supplies. All seven of SONAMI’s academic partners are taking action to combat the health crisis, including Niagara, Conestoga, Fanshawe, Lambton, Mohawk and Sheridan colleges, and McMaster University.

Since 2016, the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) has invested more $20 million in support of SONAMI’s growth efforts in the manufacturing innovation ecosystem. Thanks to flexibilities introduced by FedDev Ontario in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, SONAMI and its member institutions have been able to harness their expertise and pivot their operations to respond to the COVID-19 crisis by building a supply of essential equipment, products and therapeutics for Canadians.

“Now, more than ever, we must continue to come together to find solutions that will support the health of Canadians and our businesses. I sincerely thank Niagara College, SONAMI and other member institutions that are answering the call to action to provide critical support to our country during this fight against COVID-19,” said the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for FedDev Ontario. “We have the backs of Canadians throughout this crisis and it is through the dedicated work of partners that we are able to respond to this challenge and prepare for economic recovery.”

“These important and responsive projects, enabled through an increased budgetary flexibility by FedDev Ontario, are supporting the dual goals of immediately helping those most in need during this crisis and of fighting against COVID-19 more generally,” said Marc Nantel, PhD, Niagara College’s vice-president of Research, Innovation & Strategic Initiatives, and chair of the SONAMI Steering Committee. “It’s heartening to see these tremendous efforts from our SONAMI members who have jumped in to find innovative ways to help many people across the province and the country.”

In addition to the donation of thousands of medical and cleaning supplies, and personal protection equipment on behalf of their respective postsecondary institutions, their advanced manufacturing and research divisions are meeting the critical need for health supplies and services – everything from face shields to ventilators, and biomedical research, to innovative software to help stop the further spread of the outbreak. View list of SONAMI COVID-19 projects here.

Niagara College innovates ‘made in Niagara’ solutions 

Research assistant Tyler Winger (an NC electrical Engineering Technology graduate) assembles face shields at the Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre

Within the research labs at Niagara College’s Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (WAMIC), staff members are producing 37,000 face shields. They are currently filling an order of 17,000 for the Niagara Health System (NHS) and other emergency responders in Niagara in response to an increased demand for protective equipment.

The WAMIC research team created the face-shield design and prototype, and have partnered with local company Jay-Line for its die-cutting services to accelerate the number of plastic visors pressed. WAMIC staff are completing the face shields with foam and Velcro, and are currently producing upwards of 350 units per day.

The face shields will be supplied at no cost to the NHS and other emergency responders in the Niagara region. The material to produce the face shields alone is valued at more than $100,000, made possible through the support of FedDev Ontario.

In addition to responding to local healthcare organizations, the College’s Research & Innovation division has received approval for a Medical Device Establishment Licence (MDEL Class 1) to produce Health Canada-classified face shields in order to supply to other hospitals outside of the Niagara region. About 20,000 units will be donated out of region, with assembly completed at WAMIC.

Inside the advanced manufacturing labs at the Welland Campus, staff members working on the ‘production line’ include two recent NC graduates, research assistant Tyler Winger (Electrical Engineering Technology, 2019) and research associate Brock Husak (Mechanical Engineering Technology, 2018).

For Winger, getting his first taste of production, even on a smaller scale, has been educational.

“I’m learning a great deal – from delivery of raw materials, preparing the raw materials into the parts needed to make a shield, assembling the shield, packaging and delivery of the shields, and being involved in getting the correct certifications,” said Winger. “To be able to contribute and do my part to the community has been a rewarding experience.”

Husak noted that it has been rewarding to help brave local hospital staff during these challenging times.

“It’s also nice knowing that our quality is very close to the quality of the normal shields that medical staff are used to,” said Husak. “One time after delivering a batch of shields to Niagara Health, a staff member in the shipping and receiving area said, ‘Niagara College? Yes! The nurses love your masks; thank you for donating them.’”

NC’s WAMIC research team is also supporting McMaster University researchers in their project to develop 3D-printed laryngoscopes for Hamilton Health Sciences. With some hospitals running out of laryngoscopes – which are needed for the intubation procedure for patients requiring assisted ventilation – and preparing for a potential supply-chain interruption, McMaster sought the expertise of NC’s WAMIC engineers to reverse-engineer sample units. The laryngoscopes will be manufactured by McMaster.

WAMIC’s activities are in addition to a college-wide effort at Niagara College. In early April, the College donated 30,000 personal protective items to the Niagara Health Foundation.

Staff members at NC’s Teaching Distillery – based at the College’s Daniel J. Patterson campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake – have been running the stills since mid-March to produce disinfectant products, with help from the College’s Teaching Winery and Teaching Brewery, and SONAMI funding from FedDev. The products are being donated to front-line healthcare and community organizations in Niagara.

For a complete list of projects underway at SONAMI institutions visit:

ncinnovation.ca/blog/research-innovation/sonami-partners-fight-covid-19

Since FedDev Ontario’s initial $7.3-million investment in 2016, the award-winning SONAMI has worked with more than 145 businesses to adopt next-generation manufacturing technologies and commercialize more than 144 products. With a growing client base, the consortium is slated to grow to 10 partners and enhance its reach into the manufacturing community.

Named Canada’s number one Research College by Research Infosource Inc, (view Nov. 12, 2019 news release here) Niagara College’s Research & Innovation division conducts research projects with industry partners through its Agriculture & Environment Innovation Centre, and the Canadian Food & Wine Institute Innovation Centre and the Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre. The division also offers support in the areas of digital media and web solutions and business and commercialization solutions. Visit ncinnovation.ca/.

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.

 

Pictured above: Research associate Brock Husak (graduate of NC’s Mechanical Engineering Technology program) works inside Niagara College’s Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre, to assemble face shields.

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Media inquiries, please contact:

Julie Greco

Communications Consultant, Niagara College

Cell: 905 328 2532

[email protected]

 

Michael Wales

Communications Manager, Niagara College

Cell: 905-328-4101

[email protected]

 

Niagara College winemaker’s prestigious Nuffield scholarship bears fruit for Ontario wine industry

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Niagara College’s head winemaker, instructor and alumnus Gavin Robertson joins a select list of difference-makers in Canada’s agricultural industry.

As one of the latest recipients of a prestigious Nuffield Canada scholarship (2018), Robertson is addressing challenges faced by Ontario grape growers – from weather and climate pressures to labour availability, pricing and land use issues – through his new report, “Keeping Vines in the Ground and Wine on the Shelf: Safeguarding the Future of Ontario Viticulture with Education and Training.”

“Nuffield Canada provides motivated agricultural leaders an international opportunity to broaden their perspectives and grow their global network,” said Leona Watson, executive director of Nuffield Canada. “This is no doubt a life-changing experience and we’re proud of all our scholars for influencing change in their sector.”

The report is a culmination of two years of international study made possible by his $15,000 Nuffield Agricultural Scholarship, which led Robertson to wine regions across the globe. Robertson got his boots dirty in the vineyards of nine countries and across three continents – including France, Italy, Germany, the United States, and South Africa – where he had an opportunity to learn from researchers, educators and wine professionals.

The knowledge he gained throughout his travels to different wine regions around the world, each facing their own unique challenges, enabled him to frame the wine industry and viticulture education system back home. He identified critical knowledge clusters and strategies to address challenges to the viticulture industry, which could be implemented in Canada’s academic and applied training institutions to help guide industry stakeholders through part-time courses, workshops or online offerings.

“My Nuffield project gave me the opportunity to greatly expand my own knowledge of fundamental grape growing techniques and viticulture education models in ways that will have a lasting impact on my professional life,” said Robertson.

General manager of the College’s Learning Enterprises Steve Gill applauded Robertson on the success of his Nuffield project.

“Through his leadership, Gavin has had a tremendous impact on the success of our College’s Teaching Winery, and we are so proud of his research that is poised to make a difference in Ontario’s grape and wine industry,” said Gill. “Gavin’s research encapsulates what our Teaching Winery is all about: using education to empower the viticulture industry for future success.”

Dean of NC’s Canadian Wine Institute Craig Youdale noted that Robertson is an integral part of the College’s wine programs, not only as a NC graduate but as a mentor to future winemakers.

“The Nuffield Scholarship was an opportunity for Gavin to both expand his knowledge and skills but more important was to create colleagues and connections around the world in the wine industry,” said Youdale. “He can now bring those skills directly to our students and share with our own faculty. Those connections he has fostered can help better connect our students and entire college to expertise around the globe and further bring our programs to a world-class level.”

One of the key recommendations in Robertson’s report underlines the vital importance of matching traditional viticulture training with proficiency in the most current mechanical and digital technology tools, such as precision viticulture techniques.

“Automated modes of technology will most certainly play a large role in efficient and sustainable viticulture in the near future,” said Robertson.

Such work is already underway within NC’s Research & Innovation division. Precision agriculture technologies are being developed at the Agriculture & Environmental Technologies Innovation Centre to help local farmers with grapes, tree fruits and field crops. Since completing his Nuffield project, Robertson has been working with NC researchers to roll out tools such as remote environmental sensors for data collection at the NC Teaching Vineyard.

“This is just one example of the many ways that the scholarship has informed my own professional attitude and outlook, and I believe that many of the lessons learned are likely applicable to the industry at large,” Robertson said.

Robertson’s report and recommendations are now available on the Nuffield Canada website. Visit: Keeping Vines in the Ground and Wine on the Shelf: Safeguarding the Future of Ontario Viticulture with Education and Training.

About Gavin Robertson

A  winemaker at the Niagara College Teaching Winery and an instructor for the College’s Canadian Food and Wine Institute, Robertson oversees all wine and cider production, manages vineyards at two locations plus a small hop yard and cider apple orchard in Niagara-on-the-Lake. In addition to his work at the College, he owns a virtual artisanal cidery called Garage d’Or Ciders. Robertson graduated from Niagara College’s Winery and Viticulture Technician program in 2011. He is currently a resident of St. Catharines, Ont.

About Nuffield Scholarship

Robertson’s Nuffield Scholarship was sponsored by Nuffield Canada Alumni. Canadian Nuffield scholars have travelled the world and brought new ideas home. Since 1950, Canada has awarded a total of 108 scholarships to those who are making a difference in the agriculture industry by sharing their knowledge and experience as consultants, mentors, board members, and sought-after public speakers.  Visit nuffield.ca

Niagara College’s Teaching Winery is the first and only commercial teaching winery in Canada. It is located at the College’s Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus, along with the NC Teaching Brewery and – the latest addition in September 2018 – the NC Teaching Distillery which were also the first of their kind in Canada.

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]

 

Leona Watson

Executive Director

Nuffield Canada

Phone:  780 646 2161

[email protected]