Community celebration highlights career and accomplishments of Niagara College president Dan Patterson

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On the evening of November 22, over 600 members of the Niagara community packed Partridge Hall at the FirstOntario Performing Arts centre to celebrate the legacy of Niagara College president Dan Patterson and reflect on his accomplishments at a special event hosted by the Niagara College Board of Governors. In May 2019, Patterson announced he would conclude his tenure as president after a 25-year career at the College.

In a surprise presentation, the Niagara College Board of Governors announced that the College’s Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus would be proclaimed the Daniel J. Patterson Campus, in recognition of Patterson’s outstanding contributions to the College – which includes the campus’s evolution into one of Canada’s most unique learning environments.

The evening began with an Indigenous welcome by elder Gary Parker and a rousing performance by Chorus Niagara, which led into the first of three themes for the evening – the unrelenting passion and energy Patterson has shown throughout his career. Dr. Bonnie Rose, a former vice president academic at Niagara College and at Niagara University, in Lewiston, NY, and a former member of the college’s Board of Governors, reflected on Patterson’s passion for student success, which has been a prime motivating factor in the college’s transformation into one of Canada’s leading post-secondary institutions.

“Dan’s DNA is always intertwined with that of the college,” said Rose. “He is passionate, trailblazing and welcome. A visionary and exuberant risk-taker, with the discipline and drive to make dreams come true.”

Niagara College’s Student Administrative Council demonstrated in powerful form the lasting impact Patterson’s student-focused approach has had on Niagara College students through the years, as NC alumni from every year of Patterson’s tenure – from 1995 to 2019 – joined together on stage to thank ‘Dr. Dan’ for the many years of support he’s given to students across the College.

The second portion of the evening drew attention to the strong relationships Patterson has built and fostered within the Niagara community and beyond. Linda Franklin, president and CEO of Colleges Ontario, spoke about Patterson’s legacy of advocating for Ontario college system.

Patterson also received several honours that reflected the immense impact his career has had on the economic and social fabric of the Niagara community. St. Catharines mayor Walter Sendzik presented Patterson with the key to the City of St. Catharines, while Niagara-on-the-Lake Lord Mayor Betty Disero, Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati and Welland Deputy Mayor Adam Moote each declared November 22 as Dan Patterson Day in their respective communities.

“The key to the city is presented to individuals who have made outstanding contributions and I can think of no leader more deserving than Dr. Dan Patterson,” stated Mayor Sendzik. “Dan has been a passionate and energetic champion of Niagara. Through his infectious energy and passion, Dan has inspired generations of students, entrepreneurs and local leaders to pursue their dreams. He has left an indelible mark on Niagara College and our entire community. On behalf of the City of St. Catharines, congratulations on a remarkable career. We thank you for your leadership, vision and commitment to Niagara.”

Welland Deputy Mayor Adam Moote, Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley, Niagara College President Dan Patterson, Niagara-on-the-Lake Lord Mayor Betty Disero, St. Catharines Mayor Walter Sendzik and Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati celebrate Patterson’s 25-year career and accomplishments with Niagara College. Patterson received the keys to the City of St. Catharines, while the City of Niagara Falls, the City of Welland and the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake all proclaimed November 22, 2019 Dan Patterson Day. Patterson also received a special certificate of acknowledgement from Niagara Region.

In addition to the distinguished guests who brought greetings to the event, several others sent video greetings, including Ontario premier Doug Ford, former premiers Kathleen Wynne and Mike Harris, Lt. Governor of Ontario Elizabeth Dowdeswell, and former US ambassador to Canada Bruce Heyman, and his partner Vicki.

The final segment of the evening celebrated Patterson’s legacy as a builder, as Dr. Suzanne Johnston, retired president of the Niagara Health System and a member of the Niagara College Board of Governors spoke about Patterson’s identity as a builder of relationships, and his ability to engage with the Niagara community leaders and employers.

John F.T. Scott, Chair of Niagara College’s Board of Governors and the evening’s emcee, also shared that, in addition to the proclamation of the Daniel J. Patterson Campus, the College will establish the Dan Patterson Legacy Fund, which will provide support for bursaries, world experiences and scholarships for Niagara College students. Surplus funds from the evening will support the new fund.

“Throughout his tenure as president, Dan has not only led a significant transformation of Niagara College, but has also played a significant role in the growth and development of our community and beyond – and those contributions shone brightly in our celebrations this evening,” said Scott. “The Niagara College Board of Governors is honoured to join with Dan’s colleagues, and business and community leaders from Niagara and beyond in expressing our thanks to Dan, and recognizing his remarkable legacy.”

Following an Indigenous honour song by the Ohnia:kara Singers, Patterson’s partner Saundra, who herself has been a passionate supporter of Niagara College and its students, shared her own personal thoughts on Patterson’s career. “When Dan joined Niagara College, he did so with amazing enthusiasm. He had truly found what wanted to do in life. With his dedicated leadership and that of the others who worked with him, Niagara College is what it is today.”

In his address to the crowd, Patterson shared the remarkable career path that led him through several positions within the federal government, culminating in his leading the training branch. It was through that experience that he grew to understand the power of a college education, leading him to Niagara College.

In his remarks, Patterson expressed gratitude for the evening’s tributes, and looked back at his fondest memories from his 25-year tenure.

“My fondest memories and points of pride were all captured here tonight,” said Patterson. “I always felt it was a privilege to lead Niagara College, and I never took it for granted.”

Patterson also shared what his life might look like post-Niagara College. “Saundra and I intend to stay in Niagara.  It’s our home and to help in any way we can to ensure Niagara continues to be a special place for all of us,” said Patterson. “I’m sure I will continue to find fulfilling professional involvement in post-secondary education.” Patterson was recently appointed as chair of the Ontario Centres of Excellence, and also serves on the Board for Colleges and Institutes Canada – a national advocacy group committed to promoting the important role colleges play to support economic development.

A video recording of the entire event can be found here.

Dan Patterson, Ph.D, has been president of Niagara College since 1995. Under his leadership, enrolment has grown from 4,500 to over 11,000 full-time students in over 130 programs. Patterson has presided over significant changes to the College’s two pioneering campuses, and the introduction of unique academic programs geared toward the workforce needs of the Niagara economy that have made Niagara College one of Canada’s most innovative post-secondary institutions.

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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Ready, Set, Grow! Niagara College hosts Ontario Colleges’ Marketing Competition Nov. 21-22

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Niagara College’s team of Marketing students and their coaches are ready for OCMC 2019.

Niagara College is preparing to welcome future business leaders from across the province as this year’s host of the 2019 Ontario Colleges’ Marketing Competition.

Showcasing the top college marketing students in Ontario, the two-day competition themed ‘Ready, Set, Grow!’ will be held in Niagara Falls (Sheraton on the Falls Hotel) on November 21 and 22. This year’s competition will draw more than will 250 students from 12 participating colleges including Algonquin, Cambrian, Conestoga, Durham, Fanshawe, George Brown, Georgian, Humber, Niagara College, Seneca, Sheridan College, and St. Clair.

“We are excited to welcome the best and the brightest students from across Ontario to Niagara for OCMC 2019,” Terri Champion, School of Business and Management faculty member and coordinator of the Business- Sales and Marketing program who is this year’s OCMC event organizer, along with NC School of Business Management faculty member Malcolm Howe.  “This event not only challenges marketing students to put their skills to the test, it can be a life-changing experience for those who participate and the highlight of their academic career.”

“As a result of the months students spend training with faculty coaches, the thrill of competing, and the opportunity to present to industry professionals at the competition, OCMC is a springboard to future career success,” said Howe. “Year after year, we hear from students about how preparing for and participating in this event has helped them make contacts, land a job or has given them the confidence to succeed.”

School spirit will be in full force when the event kicks off on November 21 with a welcome from NC president Dan Patterson and a Quiz Bowl competition (7 p.m.). Students will team up with those from other colleges and the teams will face off in a game-show-style competition. With buzzers in hand, they will be ready to answer marketing questions based on textbook and magazine content.

On November 22, most of the competitive events will take place, spanning critical marketing environments, from direct marketing, entrepreneurship, international marketing, and integrated marketing communications, to marketing research, prospect pitching, retail, and sales presentations. In case competitions, students must race against the clock, with 30 minutes to read, analyze and create a PowerPoint presentation –  including problem identification, situation analysis, objectives, and identification of alternative, recommendation, and a plan for implementation – and 15 minutes to present to a room of judges. For Sales Presentation and Job Interview events, students are given information about the company and situation in advance and must present their pitch or mock interview to judges on event day.

OCMC will wrap on the evening of Nov. 22 with a gala dinner and awards banquet. Trophies will be awarded to the first, second and third place winners for each competition, and to the top three college teams who accumulated the most points overall.

Niagara College’s OCMC 2019 team includes 15 students from the Business- Sales and Marketing two-year diploma program and the Business Administration – Marketing (Co-op)  three-year advanced diploma program.

For second-year Business- Sales and Marketing student Niall Cain (Niagara-on-the-Lake), OCMC presents an opportunity to challenge himself, build his public speaking skills, and gain experience that will help him stand out to potential employers.

“This experience has been so valuable to me. Over the last two-and-a-half months, I have learned so much through OCMC training,” said Cain. “I feel being an OCMC competitor gives you a big advantage when looking for a job. It looks amazing on a resume and can usually turned into a talking point during an interview.”

NC faculty member Chris Treschak noted that students have been dedicating more than four hours per week since early September to prepare for the competition – double for those participating in two competitive events.  As a coach who has been preparing NC students and as a former OCMC winner, he knows firsthand the value of the competition.

“To this day, of all my experiences of all my levels of academia, OCMC was the single most memorable experience I have had the pleasure of being a part of,” he said.

Treschak noted that the experience benefits students in numerous ways, such as building camaraderie, providing additional learning opportunities, giving students a chance to receive direct feedback from industry professionals, and opening doors to networking opportunities.

“It is not uncommon for students to get job offers from this event,” said Treschak. “I have friends who still work for companies they met through their OCMC experience.”

In addition to 11 competitive events, this year’s OCMC will offer a number of learning opportunities including webinars (hosted by Canada Post), a networking fair, a Career Corner (hosted by Performance Auto Group), a holiday-themed mixology workshop (hosted by NC), marketing-themed contests, and a faculty workshop, ‘Incorporating Data and Analytics into your Marketing Curriculum’ (presented by Environics Analytics).

This year’s OCMC will draw 125 faculty members, coaches and academic leaders from colleges throughout Ontario, as well as more than 50 community business leaders who will participate in judging panels. More than 80 volunteers from NC will be assisting with the competition.

NC students have been participating in OCMC competitions since 2004. The last time the College hosted OCMC was in 2008.

2019 OCMC sponsors include title sponsor Meridian; gold sponsors Canada Post and Pearson Education; silver sponsors Nelson Education, Abatement Technologies, Performance Auto Group, CAA Niagara, and Environics Analytics; bronze sponsors McGraw Hill Education, and Niagara College; and partner sponsors Boston Pizza Clifton Hill, the Great Canadian Sales Competition, Brand Blvd., and Vanier College Foundation.

For info visit http://www.ocmc.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 PHOTO OPS

MEDIA  RSVP: Julie Greco at [email protected]

ON-SITE EVENT CONTACT: Terri Champion at 905-704-9504

 

  1. Niagara College team photo

Reporters will have an opportunity meet the NC team, speak to students and faculty at this time.

WHEN:

November 21, 2:15 p.m.

WHERE:

Oakes Garden Theatre (weather permitting)

5825 River Rd, Niagara Falls, ON

From hotel: exit main lobby and entrance is directly across the street

Alternate location:

Sheraton on the Falls Hotel – Fallsview Studio C (third floor)

5875 Falls Ave, Niagara Falls, ON             

 

2. Quiz Bowl welcome and event

WHEN:

November 21, 7 p.m.

WHERE:

Sheraton on the Falls Hotel – Great Room C (third floor Conference Centre)

5875 Falls Ave, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3K7

 

Media inquiries, please contact

 

Julie Greco

Communications Consultant

Office: 905 641-2252 ext. 7368

Cell: 905 328-2532

[email protected]

 

Michael Wales

Communications Manager

Office: 905 641-2252 ext. 7773

Cell: 905 328-4101

[email protected]

 

Niagara College Hospitality ‘underdogs’ earn spot as finalist among American universities in international competition

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Sometimes, the underdog runs ahead of the pack.

Students in Niagara College’s Honours Bachelor of Business Administration – Hospitality program were right behind the likes of Michigan State University, California State Polytechnic University, and Virginia Tech on November 10 when they won fourth place in an international market study competition in New York City.

The NC team, made up of five Hospitality degree program students who self-describe as “underdogs,” impressed judges at the Smith Travel Research (STR) Student Market Study Competition. They became the top-placing Canadian college among 26 undergraduate teams from across North America and Asia.

Damian Goulbourne, associate dean of School of Applied Business and Tourism, noted that the NC team’s ranking is a testament to the quality of education offered at Niagara College.

“Niagara College’s School of Hospitality and Sport is proud of our students and their exceptional finish in this international competition,” said Goulbourne. “Their ranking among universities with global reputations for hospitality and tourism solidifies the place of our degree program among them. It demonstrates that our students can not only compete with students at top-tier, research-intensive universities – they can win.”

“I feel proud of my team for representing our small Canadian college so well and standing out,” said Erin Shoemaker, second-year Hospitality student, part of the College’s first team to enter the STR competition. “We were up against some really well-known, accomplished universities.”

During the competition, NC students presented their market analysis on the city of Buffalo, strategically selected for its proximity to Niagara.

“We felt, as Canadians, we would have a unique, outside perspective on this American city,” said third-year student Arnav Gupta.

The NC team presented the findings from their data analysis, including main clusters, trends, opportunities and market challenges, and successfully advanced to the final round of the competition where they presented once more and earned fourth place out of six finalists.

Third-year student Montana Marges described the moment she learned the NC team had placed in the top six of 26 schools.

“In that moment it felt like we won. Looking at my teammates and faculty coaches, I could see the pride and excitement in all of our expressions. It was a moment I will never forget,” said Marges. “Our success in the competition is proof of the quality of education we are receiving at Niagara College. Knowing that we as a Canadian college were able to stand as equals among strong American universities is a great feeling.”

NC professors Adam Weaver, Paul Willie and Heather Clark, coached the students through the weeks of preparation leading up to the competition.

“Our students performed incredibly well at the competition and this really is a coming of age for us as a degree program,” said Weaver.

The students praised their faculty coaches.

“I feel very thankful for the support our team had from our professors. They were alongside us in the long hours of crunching numbers and polishing slides, teaching and guiding us in the direction of success,” said Shoemaker. “The effort Niagara College faculty invest in their students is something to be very grateful for.”

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
Office: 905 641-2252 ext. 7368
Cell: 905 328 2532
[email protected]

 

Michael Wales
Communications Manager
Office: 905 641-2252 ext. 7773
Cell: 905 328 4101
[email protected]

 

Niagara College ranks No. 1 in Top 50 Research Colleges report

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Niagara College announces its number one ranking in Research Infosource Inc.’s Top 50 Research Colleges report. President Dan Patterson (front right) and VP Research, Innovation & Strategic Initiatives Marc Nantel (front left) hold up a banner announcing the good news on November 12 with the Research & Innovation team.

Niagara College will mark its 20th year of applied research activity with the honour of earning the number one spot in all of Canada for research.

In its annual report “Top 50 Research Colleges,” Research Infosource Inc. has announced that Niagara College has secured the top place in the country, based on total research funding numbers for 2018. The listing also demonstrates NC’s steady standing as a leader in research in Canada, as this represents the fifth year in a row of being in the Top 10.

“A great year for Niagara College research,” said Ron Freedman, CEO, Research Infosource Inc. “Not only in terms of research income – number one in the country – but research partnerships, where Niagara ranks number three among large colleges.”

“We’re grateful for the recognition as Canada’s number one college for research funding, which is good news for us, and for business and industry in Niagara,” said Niagara College president Dan Patterson, PhD. “The research dollars that we bring to our region funds our work to provide solutions to help local companies innovate and develop new products and processes, and in turn support economic growth in our community and beyond.”

Looking at colleges with applied research funding in Canada, Niagara ranks first by having attracted $11.185 million in funding to conduct innovative projects involving industry partners in the food and beverage, advanced manufacturing, precision agriculture, and related environmental technologies sectors.

Niagara College also ranked first in the category of Research Intensity $ per Faculty which includes faculty and research leads with the division. The dollar value was $329,000 per researcher.

Looking closely at the number of interactions with industry – small- and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) who turn to colleges because they do not have the time or resources to innovate – Niagara College ranked third in Canada for colleges in the number of research partnerships, at 216.

Marc Nantel, PhD, vice-president of the Research, Innovation & Strategic Initiatives at the College noted that the number one ranking is a tremendous honour.

“We have been able to lead by being partners and collaborators within the College and the surrounding community,” said Nantel “We deliver value to the community, to industry, to students and faculty, and our funders have seen that commitment, so they continue to invest in us.”

Research funding allows the College to partner with SMEs in the region to conduct projects and services, which provide innovative solutions for industry. These include producing and testing prototypes, evaluating new technologies, and developing new or improved products and processes. NC Research & Innovation conducts research projects with industry partners through its Agriculture & Environment Innovation Centre, Canadian Food & Wine Institute Innovation Centre, and Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre. The division also offers support in the areas of digital media and web solutions, and business and commercialization solutions.

One example is Keyframe Studios – a St. Catharines-based award-winning animation and VFX film company – who turned to NC’s Research & Innovation Division for assistance with taking their concept prototype to reduce green-screen post-production composting time to the next level and hit the commercial market. The research team at NC’s Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre is working on the second phase of prototype development. Since no such product currently exists, the success of this device opens the door for Keyframe to significantly increase their productivity and create a market with other production companies worldwide.

“The team has been great. I am surprised each time I visit how talented and professional the students and staff are,” said Clint Green, co-founder of Krow VFX, a division of Keyframe Studios. “From day one we felt as if we had engineering partners and that was important to us … our success had to be the College’s success.”

NC’s award-winning Research & Innovation division administers research funding support from various regional, provincial and federal agencies. Students and graduates are hired to work alongside faculty researchers and assist industry partners with leaping forward in the marketplace. Students come from a variety of the College’s programs, such as Mechanical Engineering Technology, Culinary Innovation and Food Technology, Business Administration – Marketing, and Computer Programmer.

Research Infosource annually compiles listings of the Top 50 research universities, corporate R&D spenders, and research hospitals. This year marks the sixth year a list has been released for the Top 50 research colleges in Canada. A special report on all 2019 categories, including comprehensive listings, analysis and insight, will be published Nov. 21, 2019. For more information on the Top 50 list, visit researchinfosource.com.

Niagara College’s Research & Innovation 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.

 

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Media inquiries, please contact

 

Julie Greco

Communications Consultant

Office: 905 641-2252 ext. 7368

Cell: 905 328-2532

[email protected]

 

Michael Wales

Communications Manager

Office: 905 641-2252 ext. 7773

Cell: 905 328-4101

[email protected]

 

Registration now open for Niagara College’s Fall Open House, Nov. 16

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This fall, Niagara College will open its doors to prospective students for an interactive look inside all that college life has to offer.

On Saturday, November 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the College will welcome students, parents and families for its Fall Open House, to explore programs, facilities and services at both its innovative campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Future students can engage with faculty, staff, and current students to help guide their journey to postsecondary education.

“Fall Open House is one of the best times to experience Niagara College and envision your future with us,” said NC President Dan Patterson. “Come out and meet our remarkable students, faculty and staff, tour our impressive facilities and services, and learn about our innovative programs.”

Open House visitors can register for a chance to win a $2,000 credit towards their tuition in September 2020, January 2021 or May 2021. New this year, prospective students who register before Thursday, Nov. 14 at 11:59 p.m. and attend open house will be entered to win 1 of 10 $100 Amazon gift cards. Pre-registration is not mandatory to attend Fall Open House, but only those who pre-register will be eligible for the gift card draw.

The focal point for the event will be the ‘Academic Marketplace’ where visitors can explore the variety of program offerings – for both full- and part-time studies – available at each campus, speak to program faculty and students, and depart for lab tours specific to their program areas of interest where they can see for themselves what experiential learning is all about.

Visitors can get a look inside NC’s unique environments and visit classrooms, labs, and learning enterprises such as the Teaching Salon, Dental Clinic, simulation and technology labs at the Welland Campus; or the Teaching Winery, Teaching Brewery, Teaching Distillery, greenhouse, and culinary and research labs at the NOTL Campus. It will also be an opportunity to view some of the newest areas on campus from NC’s $65-million campus redevelopment project, such as the renovated libraries at both campuses, the Marotta Family Innovation Complex at the NOTL campus, and the Marilyn I Walker Centre of Excellence in Visual Arts and Technology at the Welland campus.

Guests can roam freely or attend guided campus tours departing every half hour, led by current students. On-campus residences will be open for tours on a drop-in basis throughout the day.

The College is hosting an information session on:

  • Making the transition – Hear from our Financial Aid team to learn more about The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP), bursaries and scholarships, fee deadlines and payment options. You’ll also hear from a current student on their real life experiences at NC and advice on what they wished they knew in first year.

Guests can also browse through the Student Services Fair at each campus to learn about available supports the College offers. Financial Aid and Enrolment Services staff will also be on site and ready to facilitate student applications.

While visitors are welcome to attend both campus open houses, those who are unsure of where their programs of interest are located are encouraged to visit the College website here: niagaracollege.ca/openhouse/fall/academicdisplays.

Free parking is available at all lots at both campuses during the event. For directions and campus info visit niagaracollege.ca/openhouse/fall/directions.

For more information about the Fall Open House and schedules, visit niagaracollege.ca/openhouse.

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
Office: 905 641-2252 ext. 7368
Cell: 905 328 2532
[email protected]

Michael Wales
Communications Manager
Office: 905 641-2252 ext. 7773
Cell: 905 328 4101
[email protected]

 

NC Teaching Brewery releases wartime-inspired brew for Remembrance Day

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Student Tony Arnold (second from left) hold up a model spitfire with casks of beer underwing as was used to deliver beer to troops in France post D-Day. The model was built by Brewmaster professor Victor North, inspired by the creation of Juno. From left: Allen Vary (Brewmaster student), Tony Arnold (Brewmaster student), Harry Hamilton (Royal Canadian Legion Branch 56 president), Eric Cuthbert (Royal Canadian Legion Branch 17 president), Jon Downing (NC Brewmaster professor), Steve Gill (general Manager NC’s Learning Enterprises), Victor North (Brewmaster faculty) and Justin Niece (NC sales coordinator) in the NC Teaching Brewery.

Just in time for Remembrance Day, Niagara College’s Teaching Brewery has rolled out a commemorative wartime brew inspired by an English beer that helped maintain the morale of the Allied forces 75 years ago.

A group of staff and students from the College’s Teaching Brewery, along with representatives from local Royal Canadian Legion branches, marked the re-release of the beer, named ‘Juno,’ on November 7.

The Second World War-style brew debuted at the Teaching Brewery last spring prior to the 75th anniversary of D-Day. Staff at the Teaching Brewery decided to brew it once again this fall in advance of Remembrance Day.  It will be available in cans at the Niagara College Teaching Brewery while supplies last and at several Royal Canadian Legion Branches in Niagara.

“It was an honour that the Canadian Legions wanted us to brew it for their members, especially for Remembrance Day,” said college brewmaster Jon Downing.

The recipe for Juno replicates a recipe made by St. Austell Brewery in England during the Second World War. The 3% Pale Ale adheres to the legal limit for alcohol during the Second World War due to government restrictions, and incorporates heritage hop varieties and ingredients used in the original recipe. The result is a very light ale with distinct fermented sugar character, lightly hopped but crisp and refreshing.

Downing was inspired to create the beer earlier this year after viewing St. Austell Brewery’s brewing log from D-Day, June 6, 1944, in a Brewery History Society newsletter. It struck him how the timing of the beer, which was brewed that day at St. Austell, coincided with Canadian soldiers landing on the shores of Normandy. He also researched the wartime challenge of supplying troops with beer in The Journal of the Brewery History Society. Downing contacted St. Austell for permission to reproduce the beer before setting out to create a recipe as close to the original as possible.

“The project to recreate that beer brewed at St Austell Brewery on 6th June 1944 is a human touchstone to the countless individuals who all did their bit in difficult times to deliver the ultimate victory over fascism,” said Roger Ryman, brewing director and head brewer of St. Austell Brewing. ”Beer and pubs were considered essential to the national morale during the dark years of the war.”

Brewing the heritage beer was a learning experience for students in NC’s Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management program. It exposed them to the history of the beer style and the process, and was a lesson in what to do when restrictions are in place.

“My grandfather fought in World War Two with the Canadians, under the British, so this of huge significance to me,” said Brewmaster student Tony Arnold of Burlington, who brought photos of his late grandfather, who served in the Second World War with the Canadian Army, to mark Juno’s return to the Teaching Brewery for Remembrance Day.

“I’m very much into in history, and having the opportunity to merge beer and history is basically the dream for me,” said Allen Vary of St. Catharines.  “I think the process of finding an old recipe and bringing it back to life is a great learning experience, and I’m stoked to be a part of the process.”

Representatives from local Royal Canadian Legion branches were looking forward to serving the beer at their Remembrance Day events.

“What a great way to inspire the memories of 75 years ago and to allow the younger generations to taste a piece of history of their parents or grandparent or great-grandparent,” said Harry Hamilton, president of Branch 56 in Port Colborne.

Hamilton noted that he first heard about Juno beer in April of 2019 and ordered some to serve at Branch 56’s special remembrance and dedication service held for the 75th Anniversary of D-Day.  “The veterans and attending all thought that this was a wonderful way to add to the special service,” he said.

Eric Cuthbert, president of Branch 17 in Thorold also noted that Juno was well received at their D-Day event and they wanted to bring it back for their Remembrance Day event.

“Those who had served really grasped the significance of the beer,” said Cuthbert. “They were shocked to find out it was so close to the original recipe.”

NC’s Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management program was launched in 2010 as the first of its kind in Canada. The award-winning, two-year program offers extensive hands-on training at an on-site, state-of-the-art Teaching Brewery to prepare students for employment in the expanding brewery, microbrewery and brewpub industries. Located at the College’s Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus, students learn from award-winning faculty and have access to on-site hop yard and local farm products to brew a full range of beer styles. Visit ncteachingbrewery.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

Office: 905 641-2252 ext. 7368

Cell: 905 328 2532

[email protected]

 

Michael Wales

Communications Manager

Office: 905 641-2252 ext. 7773

Cell: 905 328 4101

[email protected]

Niagara College to collaborate with five Canadian colleges on Cannabis education and research

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Niagara College, which launched Canada’s first postsecondary credential in cannabis production in 2018, has joined five Canadian colleges and Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan), in forming the College Consortium for Cannabis, an entity that is unique in the postsecondary sector.

Niagara has joined NorQuest College, Durham College, Okanagan College and Collège communautaire du Nouveau-Brunswick (CCNB) in the consortium. The colleges, along with CICan, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that sets out four key areas of focus: the cannabis market; the development of workforce relevant courses; the establishment of a cluster of subject matter experts, and the pursuit of shared funding for applied research.

“This partnership is an opportunity to leverage the expertise of five postsecondary colleges from across Canada in supporting the growth and success of Canada’s emerging cannabis industry,” said Marc Nantel, PhD., Niagara College’s vice president, Research, Innovation and Strategic Initiatives. “As a pioneer in cannabis education, we look forward to collaborating with our postsecondary partners in solving problems, pursuing new opportunities and driving innovation in the cannabis sector.”

Since it launched in 2018, two classes have graduated from Niagara College’s Commercial Cannabis Production Graduate Certificate program. Based at the college’s Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus, the program was developed to meet a significant demand for qualified, professional workers in Canada’s emerging cannabis industry.

“Our Commercial Cannabis Production Graduate Certificate program reflects our pre-emptive approach as a college – to predict and address future labour market needs and opportunities,” said Al Unwin, Niagara College’s associate dean of Environmental and Horticultural Studies. “We look forward to working with our postsecondary colleagues in the consortium to further advance the nascent cannabis industry through the ongoing development of a highly skilled workforce.”

NorQuest, Okanagan, Durham, and CCNB all have cannabis related courses ranging from cannabis production, cultivation to pest management for cannabis production and medical cannabis fundamentals for business professionals.

It is expected that the consortium will grow in size as more colleges enter the world of cannabis programming.

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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Julie Greco
Communications Consultant
Office: 905 641-2252 ext. 7368
Cell: 905 328 2532
[email protected]

 

Michael Wales
Communications Manager
Office: 905 641-2252 ext. 7773
Cell: 905 328 4101
[email protected]

ReuKnighted: Former Knights to reunite at Niagara College for alumni tailgate on Friday, Nov. 1

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Niagara College is gearing up to welcome the spirit and enthusiasm of former Knights at the Welland Campus for ReuKnighted, the first alumni reunion of its kind. The weekend will kick off with a tailgate on Friday afternoon followed by a Knights basketball game, with festivities continuing into Saturday.

Tickets are still available and alumni are welcome to register for the event this Friday.

Former Knights athletes and alumni from NC’s Broadcasting – Radio Television and Film, and Sport Management programs, will come together for an exclusive tailgate party with appetizers and refreshments beginning at 4:30 p.m. in The Core, hosted by the Alumni Relations team. The indoor tailgate will be followed by the men’s and women’s basketball home-opener games in NC’s Athletic Centre. An after-party featuring entertainment will follow.

“We’re excited to welcome alumni back to Niagara College,” said Michele O’Keefe, associate director, Athletics and Recreation. “Alumni are integral to NC Knights tradition and ReuKnighted is our way to celebrate and engage them.”

The reunion weekend will continue into Saturday with the National Scholar Brunch and Hall of Fame induction in the morning, followed by a volleyball double-header in the afternoon. Tickets include game admission for both the Friday basketball and Saturday volleyball games.

“ReuKnighted is a great opportunity for alumni to come back to campus and reconnect with former classmates, teammates, faculty, and friends of Niagara College,” said Jana Boniferro, NC alumni engagement officer. “We’re very excited to host members of our alumni community and look forward to getting ‘reuKnighted’ as we help cheer on our NC Knights.”

ReuKnighted is a family-friendly, ticketed event, and a chance to reconnect with former classmates and teammates. Registration is open at niagaracollege.ca/alumnirelations/reuknighted.

The first 100 alumni to register will receive a special gift – an NC-branded alumni scarf – courtesy of Alumni Relations. All event proceeds support scholarships and bursaries for student athletes.

Being the first alumni reunion of its kind, NC is considering future events to engage the wider alumni community, numbering over 90,000 worldwide.

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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Media inquiries, please contact:

Julie Greco
Communications Consultant
Office: 905 641-2252 ext. 7368
Cell: 905 328-2532
[email protected]

Michael Wales
Communications Manager
Office: 905 641-2252 ext. 7773
Cell: 905 328-4101
[email protected]

 

ReuKnighted: Former Knights to reunite at Niagara College for alumni tailgate on Friday, Nov. 1

/in

Niagara College is gearing up to welcome the spirit and enthusiasm of former Knights at the Welland Campus for ReuKnighted, the first alumni reunion of its kind. The weekend will kick off with a tailgate on Friday afternoon followed by a Knights basketball game, with festivities continuing into Saturday.

Tickets are still available and alumni are welcome to register for the event this Friday.

Former Knights athletes and alumni from NC’s Broadcasting – Radio Television and Film, and Sport Management programs, will come together for an exclusive tailgate party with appetizers and refreshments beginning at 4:30 p.m. in The Core, hosted by the Alumni Relations team. The indoor tailgate will be followed by the men’s and women’s basketball home-opener games in NC’s Athletic Centre. An after-party featuring entertainment will follow.

“We’re excited to welcome alumni back to Niagara College,” said Michele O’Keefe, associate director, Athletics and Recreation. “Alumni are integral to NC Knights tradition and ReuKnighted is our way to celebrate and engage them.”

The reunion weekend will continue into Saturday with the National Scholar Brunch and Hall of Fame induction in the morning, followed by a volleyball double-header in the afternoon. Tickets include game admission for both the Friday basketball and Saturday volleyball games.

“ReuKnighted is a great opportunity for alumni to come back to campus and reconnect with former classmates, teammates, faculty, and friends of Niagara College,” said Jana Boniferro, NC alumni engagement officer. “We’re very excited to host members of our alumni community and look forward to getting ‘reuKnighted’ as we help cheer on our NC Knights.”

ReuKnighted is a family-friendly, ticketed event, and a chance to reconnect with former classmates and teammates. Registration is open at niagaracollege.ca/alumnirelations/reuknighted.

The first 100 alumni to register will receive a special gift – an NC-branded alumni scarf – courtesy of Alumni Relations. All event proceeds support scholarships and bursaries for student athletes.

Being the first alumni reunion of its kind, NC is considering future events to engage the wider alumni community, numbering over 90,000 worldwide.

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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Media inquiries, please contact:

Julie Greco
Communications Consultant
Office: 905 641-2252 ext. 7368
Cell: 905 328-2532
[email protected]

Michael Wales
Communications Manager
Office: 905 641-2252 ext. 7773
Cell: 905 328-4101
[email protected]

 

Niagara College opens Marilyn I Walker Centre of Excellence in Visual Arts and Technology

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Niagara College celebrates the official opening of the Marilyn I. Walker Centre of Excellence in Visual Arts and Technology at the Welland Campus on October 29 with Norris Walker and Sheila Bonapace – husband and daughter of the late Marilyn Walker. They join NC administrators, staff, faculty and alumni in cutting a ceremonial ribbon comprised of printout images of Marilyn Walker’s quilts. Pictured from left: Chris Cicchino (faculty); Stephen Dominick (faculty); Vincent Shaikh (dean, School of Media, Trades and Technology); Sheila Bonapace, Norris Walker, Dan Patterson (NC president); Saundra Patterson (partner of college president); Linda Roote (associate dean, School of Media Studies); Tom Price (NCSAC president); and Game Development graduates Andres Coimbra Castedo, Emma Perretta, Andy Chiarelli, and Philip Ellis.  

The legacy of Marilyn Isabelle Walker continues to enrich lives and fulfil dreams at Niagara College.

On October 29, Niagara College announced a gift from the estate of artist and philanthropist Marilyn Walker at the official opening of the Marilyn I. Walker Centre of Excellence in Visual Arts & Technology at its Welland Campus. Through her estate, Walker – known for her passion for the arts and for the Niagara community before her passing in 2015 – gifted Niagara College with $1 million for its visual arts and technology programming areas. Walker’s vision was to create a hub of learning, innovation and creativity at the College, building on strengths of its existing program base.

“We are tremendously grateful to the late Marilyn Walker for her generous gift which is an exciting investment in the future of visual arts and technology at our College,” said NC president Dan Patterson who, along with his wife Saundra, was a friend of Marilyn Walker’s. “Marilyn’s gift will contribute in a very meaningful way to the education of the future workforce in these sectors, making the Niagara community a more vibrant place to live, study and work.”

College president Dan Patterson announces a $1-million gift from the estate of artist and philanthropist Marilyn Walker at the official opening of the Marilyn I. Walker Centre of Excellence in Visual Arts and Technology.

The Marilyn I. Walker Centre of Excellence in Visual Arts & Technology includes several upgrades and renovations to the School of Media Studies, as well as new resources and equipment. A newly renovated collaborative space on the third floor of the Simcoe building – complete with a state-of-the-art video wall – marks the first of a four-phase project for the new Centre. Future phases will include the enhancement of four other classrooms; a resource room which includes new equipment  such as printers, 3D printers, and a die cutting machine; an upgraded client project room between two game design classrooms; new photographic equipment to support the Graphic Design program; and a classic studio with screen printing equipment and more. Funds will also be allocated to enhancing the student learning experience in the Voyageur wing for students in Media programs.

“Marilyn was an award-winning quilter, who used her hands to create – and now her legacy is helping our students do exactly that at NC, by enhancing hands-on learning opportunities within our School of Media,” said Linda Roote, associate dean, School of Media Studies. “Thanks to the purchase of new equipment such as a 3D printer, die cutters and silk-screening units, our students will gain tactile, hands-on experience as they transform their designs into a reality.”

Photography professor Stephen Dominick noted that Walker’s donation has enabled the program – currently celebrating its tenth year– to almost double the size of its teaching studio, as well as expand and update its studio gear. The additional space provides students with a superior teaching and learning environment, decreasing the number of students on each individual set from about six to less than four.

“These extensive upgrades have provided us with what I believe to be one of the most professionally equipped photography teaching studios in the province with the newest technologies in wireless strobes, light modifiers, rolling grip gear, portrait seating, a 72-inch HD TV for image critiques, and new iMac editing and teaching computers,” said Dominick.

A ‘gear cage’ in the new Photography space, has also opened the door for a consignment agreement with Nikon Canada who will be equipping the cage on a rotational basis with their flagship DSLR and mirrorless cameras, and with a wide range of prime lenses. “This gives our students unparalleled access to the newest and best professional photography gear currently available anywhere,” said Dominick.

Chris Cicchino, senior art director and project manager at the Fallsview Group as well as a NC School of Media faculty member and alumnus, applauded the new Centre. “This donation will benefit our teaching capabilities by being able to show students real-world machines and processes that they may encounter in their future careers,” he said. “The growing design industry calls for designers to have more education and experience, and to be more than just a graphic designer, to be highly capable in many fields of study. Graduating students will be in demand due to their higher skill level and foundational knowledge.”

“Many of the innovative, state of the art, modern spaces we have at our campuses have come from the generous donations from community philanthropists like Marilyn I. Walker,” said Tom Price, president of Niagara College’s Student Administrative Council. “These spaces are crucial to the applied, experiential and integrated learning that is vital to the core beliefs of Niagara College. Marilyn’s incredibly generous donation will not only help the students of today, but students for years and years to come.”

In addition to establishing the new Centre, a portion of Walker’s gift ($100,000) was endowed to provide an annual bursary to a student in their final year of study in one of the College’s visual art or technology programs – such as Art and Design Foundation, Graphic Design, Photography, or Game Development.  A portion ($150,000) was also endowed to support staffing for the Centre.

Over the years, Marilyn and Norris Walker have contributed generously to student success at NC by supporting scholarships and College fundraising events. In 2015, Walker Industries and the Walker family announced a $1.2 M contribution to the College’s Achieving Dreams Campaign, which supported its Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre.

A memorial bench in honour of Marilyn I. Walker was placed in the Wetlands Ridge trail, located at the College’s Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus, shortly after Walker’s death in 2015, next to a memorial bench placed years before in memory of her daughter, Jennifer.

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

Office: 905 641-2252 ext. 7368

Cell: 905 328 2532

[email protected]

 

Michael Wales

Communications Manager

Office: 905 641-2252 ext. 7773

Cell: 905 328 4101

[email protected]