Niagara College agrees to purchase Niagara Corporate Business Centre

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As its campus spaces continue to grow and evolve, Niagara College has agreed to purchase the Niagara Corporate Business Centre (NCBC) in Niagara-on-the-Lake from Trivieri Investments Limited and is scheduled to assume ownership of the property on August 23.

Located on Glendale Avenue East in the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, the 33-acre property, which includes a three-story office building, is adjacent to Niagara College’s Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus, and is already home to Niagara College offices that were previously leased from Trivieri Investments Limited. “With its size and location right next door to our Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus, the Niagara Corporate Business Centre property provides long-term flexibility and room for expansion,” said Niagara College president Dan Patterson. “As we look to the future, this acquisition will help ensure the College’s ability to accommodate the needs of our growing community, and remain among the most innovative and unique learning environments in Canada.”

The NCBC is currently home to 18 businesses and agencies as well as some Niagara College administrative offices. Current building operations at the property will continue unchanged. Niagara College will work with Niagara Region and the Town-of-Niagara-on-the-Lake to explore options for the property under the Glendale District Planning process.

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:

Andrew Korchok

Communications Consultant

Niagara College

Office: 905 641-2252 ext. 7430

Cell: 905 329-1642

[email protected]

FedDev Ontario supports expansion of Southern Ontario Network for Advanced Manufacturing Innovation

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$14-million investment will enable network to grow to 10 partners, enhance its reach into the manufacturing community and support over 550 jobs

The Government of Canada recognizes the importance of helping Canadian manufacturers adopt leading-edge technologies so they can grow and compete both at home and abroad.

On July 11, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, along with Vance Badawey, Member of Parliament for Niagara Centre, announced a FedDev Ontario contribution of $14 million to Niagara College to expand the Southern Ontario Network for Advanced Manufacturing Innovation (SONAMI). This announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for FedDev Ontario.

Created in 2016 with a $7.3-million contribution from FedDev Ontario, SONAMI is a network of seven post-secondary institutions that pools the resources and expertise of its members and matches them to the needs of smaller manufacturers. This enables them to adopt cutting-edge technologies into their operations to increase productivity and create innovative new products, grow and diversify their businesses into new markets and become more competitive.

With new funding, SONAMI will expand its geographic reach beyond the Niagara region by adding three new post-secondary institutions. Companies will be able to connect to a broader range of expertise and knowledge in areas such as bio-industrial manufacturing, green product manufacturing and “Industry 4.0” technologies, including digitally enabled and intelligent manufacturing.

The expanded network will provide technical knowledge and expertise to another 240 businesses as they work to commercialize up to 240 new products. The project will create and maintain 552 permanent jobs and provide skills training and development for up to 360 students and researchers, preparing young Canadians for the jobs of today and tomorrow.

“The Government of Canada is committed to supporting the advanced manufacturing innovation ecosystem in southern Ontario, a vital manufacturing region in Canada.The SONAMI network offers the linkages and expertise that our smaller manufacturers need to seize new opportunities, develop the workforce of the future and adopt the latest technologies to remain competitive on a global scale.”
— The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for FedDev Ontario

“The Government of Canada proudly supports our advanced manufacturing sector, a pillar of the regional ecosystem in southern Ontario. SONAMI’s award-winning partnership model offers a single window for smaller manufacturers to access leading-edge expertise and facilities. With this FedDev Ontario funding, SONAMI will expand its network, allowing even more businesses to access the support they need to innovate, grow and compete in the economy of the future.”
– The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities

“Niagara College and its SONAMI partners are pushing the limits of what our manufacturers can do. The network has already demonstrated its ability to help companies grow and create jobs for the Niagara Region and well beyond. I look forward to seeing the successes that will come from an expanded network.”
– Vance Badawey, Member of Parliament for Niagara Centre

“Today’s announcement is a great example of how the most innovative solutions happen through collaboration. FedDev Ontario’s support to expand SONAMI will not only help to create jobs here in the Niagara region, but also help more manufacturers adopt leading-edge technology and access the expertise needed to succeed now, as well as build skills for the jobs of the future.”
– Chris Bittle, Member of Parliament for St. Catharines

“We are thankful to FedDev Ontario for this significant new investment in SONAMI. Niagara College is proud of the network’s tremendous success as a one-stop shop for advanced manufacturing applied research in southern Ontario. With this expansion, we will continue to help small- and medium-sized enterprises remain competitive, while enabling our students to gain valuable skills working on cutting-edge solutions for our industry partners. Together, we are stimulating the economy while building essential skills for tomorrow’s workforce.”
– Dan Patterson, PhD, President, Niagara College

https://youtu.be/K_EdmLPd-9o

Quick facts

  • Led by Niagara College, the SONAMI partnership includes Mohawk College, Sheridan College, McMaster University, Conestoga College, Fanshawe College and Lambton College.
  • Through the funding announced today, SONAMI will reach beyond its existing client base of nearly 12,000 manufacturing businesses across southern Ontario.
  • To date, SONAMI has worked with 109 businesses to commercialize more than 140 products.
  • Niagara College received the 2019 Research Partnership Award from the Canadian Association of Research Administrators (CARA) for the significant impact SONAMI has had on the regional economy. The SONAMI project administrator also received CARA’s Walter Hitschfeld Award for her dedication and exceptional impact on research administration.
  • FedDev Ontario’s non-repayable contribution is leveraging over $24 million in funding, including $14 million from industry collaborators and $10.3 million from SONAMI member post-secondary institutions.
  • This year marks 10 years of FedDev Ontario delivering funding and business services to support innovation and growth in southern Ontario.

Associated links

From: Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario

 

Media Inquiries, please contact:

FedDev Ontario Media Relations

416-954-6652

[email protected]

Toll Free: 1-866-593-5505

Website: www.FedDevOntario.gc.ca

 

Niagara College Communications Consultant

Julie Greco

Office: 905 641-2252 ext. 7368

Cell: 905 328 2532

[email protected]

Success uncorked: NC’s Gastronomy Chardonnay earns 2019 Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Excellence in Ontario Wines

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The awards keep pouring in.

The Niagara College Teaching Winery shone at the 2019 Lieutenant Governor’s Awards for Excellence in Ontario Wines, with NC’s 2017 Gastronomy Chardonnay making the shortlist of just 11 winning wines.

This is the second award for the student-crafted, barrel-fermented chardonnay from the College’s on-campus estate vineyard (St. David’s Bench), which won gold at the 25th annual Ontario Wine Awards this June for the Oaked Chardonnay Award Under $20 category.

The Hon. Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, presented the awards at a ceremony on June 24 during the 4th Annual Winetario event at George Brown College. The NC Teaching Winery 2017 Gastronomy Chardonnay was a standout win among big names in wine for overall excellence, regardless of vintage or varietal, including Peller Estates, Jackson-Triggs, and Trius. The winning wines were chosen from 542 wines submitted by 78 wineries. The variety was created for Les Marmitons Niagara, a gastronomic and social club of men who share a common interest in food, wine and the culinary arts.

“All of you have made remarkable wines, and each is richly deserving of these awards,” said Dowdeswell in her opening remarks. “And how wonderful it is to see the Niagara College Teaching Winery in the winners’ circle this year! Not only are you pioneers of education in the field of winemaking in Ontario, but your students are already making good on their promise. Your achievement bodes well for the whole industry.”

Steve Gill, general manager, Niagara College Learning Enterprises, attended the award ceremony. “The Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Excellence in Ontario Wines is a testament to applied learning at Niagara College,” said Gill. “Not only did our students play a key role in producing this award-winning wine from our Teaching Winery, we are tremendously proud of the winemakers behind many of the other award-winning wines who are graduates of Niagara College’s wine programs – including our own Niagara College Teaching Winery winemaker Gavin Robertson.”

‘It’s always great to see our Teaching Winery products do well in competitions because it demonstrates to our students – who are very much a part of our everyday winemaking operations – that the lessons that we deliver in lecture and labs hold true when scaled-up in commercial application,” said Gavin Robertson, winemaker and instructor at NC’s Teaching Winery. “Our hope as instructors is that this marriage of science and practice provides a sound foundation for our students to enter the workforce and become leaders, producing their own award-winning wines and also contributing to the growth and development of the Canadian wine industry in other significant ways.”

In addition to Robertson, who graduated from the College’s Winery and Viticulture Technician program in 2011, many of the award-winning wineries are staffed by winemakers who are graduates of NC’s Winery and Viticulture Technician program. They include Chris Frey, winemaker at Megalomaniac (2009 graduate), Yvonne Irvine, assistant winemaker at Creekside Estates (2008 graduate), Paul Pender, winemaker at Tawse Estates (2006 graduate), and Allison Findlay, assistant winemaker at Flat Rock Cellars (2014 graduate).

The award-winning wine is available at Niagara College’s Wine Visitor + Education Centre, located at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus (135 Taylor Rd., Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON). Proceeds from sales support student learning. Visit niagaracollegewine.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, spirits, horticulture and esthetics. For more information visit niagaracollege.ca.

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Media inquiries, please contact:

Michael Wales
Manager, Corporate Communications
Office: 905 735-2211 ext. 7773
Cell: 905 328-4101
[email protected]

Andrew Korchok
Communications Consultant
Office: 905 641-2252 ext. 7430
Cell: 905 329-1642
[email protected]

Niagara College seeks next Many Hands Project recipient

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Niagara College is ready to dedicate ‘many hands’ to assisting Niagara’s most vulnerable citizens, and is seeking a recipient for its next Many Hands Project.

Applications are now being accepted for the College’s 2019-2020 Many Hands Project. The 23rd annual Many Hands Project will provide resources for much needed programing to a Niagara-based non-profit organization. The value of the project will be approximately $5,000.

Run by the Event Management graduate certificate program of NC’s School of Hospitality, Tourism and Sport, the Many Hands Project has been assisting non-profit organizations throughout Niagara since 1998. Event Management students will plan and execute fundraising events throughout the 2019-2020 academic year to raise money for the selected recipient. The project will rejuvenate the facilities of a local non-profit organization in a one- or two-day upgrade, or provide resources for programming that supports Niagara Region’s vulnerable citizens. Not-for-profit agencies and organizations based in the Niagara region are welcome to apply.

“Niagara College is proud to continue its Many Hands Project, which is an example of applied learning at its best,” said Damian Goulbourne, associate dean of NC’s School of Hospitality, Tourism and Sport.

“Students in our Event Management program gain hands-on experience in planning special events, along with important lessons in community service and leadership, while helping to make a difference in the community at the same time,” said  Christine Blane, faculty and program coordinator for NC’s Event Management program.

The most recent recipient to the College’s Many Hands Project was Pathstone Mental Health. In 2019, Event Management students raised more than $40,800 for Pathstone: $35,858 was raised by hosting a series of fundraising events, while $5,000 was donated by Canadian Tire Bank – a long-time sponsor and supporter of the Many Hands Project. Funds were dedicated to supporting play therapy at Pathstone, which treats Niagara children who are diagnosed with mental health issues.

Applications for the 2019-2020 Many Hands Project must be submitted by August 23, 2019.  View application here: Many Hands Project Application 2019-20. The selected non-profit organization is expected to be announced during the fall of 2019.

For more information about the Many Hands Project, visit niagaracollege.ca/manyhands.

Event Management is a one-year graduate certificate program at Niagara College that prepares graduates for a career in a fast-paced and multifaceted industry. Students develop skills in planning and logistics, public relations, marketing and sponsorship strategies, and volunteer and risk management in a highly experiential learning environment.

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 celebrates Grand Opening of Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre in Welland

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A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on July 28 to mark the official opening of the Walker Advanced Manufacturing Centre at Niagara College’s Welland Campus. Pictured (from left): Andrew McCuaig (grad, research associate, Research & Innovation); Marc Nantel (associate VP, Research & Innovation); Dan Patterson (NC president); John Scott (NC Board of Governors); Charles Sousa (Ontario minister of Finance); Geordie Walker; Norris Walker; Jim Bradley St. Catharines MPP); Jackie Phelan (Walker Industries); Mike Watt (Walker Industries); Daniela Cortes Aristizabal (student, research associate, Research & Innovation).

View time lapse video of Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (construction) here.

Ontario is supporting the development of a highly-skilled workforce and helping businesses in Niagara region access the technology and expertise they need to grow, create jobs and compete in the global marketplace.

On July 28, Charles Sousa, Minister of Finance, joined local companies, Niagara College students and industry leaders at the grand opening of the Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre in Welland.

The new Niagara College-affiliated centre provides students with more than 15,000 square feet of lab space for hands-on applied learning, innovation space for companies to work onsite and office space for Niagara students and industry staff.

The centre will also help Ontario’s small and medium-sized manufacturers save on production costs and reduce production time by providing them access to leading-edge equipment and state-of-the-art research facilities as well as the expertise and business services of faculty and students.

Fostering innovation and growth, and increasing opportunities for the province’s workers, is part of Ontario’s plan to create jobs, grow its economy and help people in their everyday lives.

“By supporting the Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre, students in the Niagara Region will have access to modern learning spaces and equipment that will help them develop the skills they’ll need for the jobs of today and tomorrow,” said  Deb Matthews, Minister of Advanced Education and Skills Development.

“Ontario’s dynamic manufacturing sector is a key component of our diverse economy. The Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre is a shining example of a company that has taken advantage of home grown talent to drive success, while providing custom work for businesses throughout the region,” said Charles Sousa, Minister of Finance. “These investments are among the many significant measures we’ve taken to help the sector grow and compete as we build and nurture the workforce of tomorrow.”

The Walker family and Walker Industries donated $1.2 million to support Niagara College’s Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre.  The gift from the Walker family is the largest private corporate donation ever made to Niagara College.

The fifth generation Walker family members are the owners of Walker Industries, a Niagara-based company that owns and operates limestone quarries; road construction and paving businesses; an emulsions plant; an integrated waste management system which includes collection, transfer, recycling, composting, biosolids management, landfill gas utilization and waste disposal; and a residential and commercial development division.

“As a family and a business that has had strong roots in the region for 130 years, we are proud to invest in Niagara College’s Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre,” said Geordie Walker, company shareholder, Walker Industries. “The ability to innovate is key to future economic prosperity. We see our gift as a way to support other local industries to innovate, prosper, and contribute to the continued growth of the Niagara economy, while providing students with work experiences that will make them the innovators of the future.”

“It’s an exciting day for Niagara College as we formally recognize how the province of Ontario’s investment and the donation from the Walker family has made it possible to provide manufacturers with increased access to leading-edge facilities, equipment, technical expertise, training and services, while increasing training and employment opportunities for our students,” said NC president Dan Patterson.

 

QUICK FACTS (Ontario Ministry of Finance)

*  Ontario invested $4.2 million for Niagara College’s new Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre.

*  Manufacturing real GDP in Ontario has risen for three consecutive years, while employment in the sector increased by more than 6,000 in 2016 and continues to advance in 2017.

*  Over the past three years, Ontario’s economy has grown faster than Canada’s and that of all G7 countries, supported by the government’s strategic investments. Manufacturing, exports and business investments are increasing and the unemployment rate continues to decline.

LEARN MORE

Construction Begins on New Manufacturing Innovation Centre

Two NC students receive prestigious DiRōNA scholarships

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Representatives from DiRoNA present scholarships to two Niagara College students at the College’s Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus June 19. Pictured from left: Craig Youdale (dean, NC Canadian Food and Wine Institute), Helen Tabitha Lindsay (NC student, Winery and Viticulture Technician program), Don Ziraldo (wine pioneer), John Arena (founder, DiRoNa), Scott Breard (executive director, DiRoNA), Kelly Breard (executive director, DiRoNA), Alexis Currell-Therrien (NC student, Honours Bachelor of Applied Business International Commerce and Global Development) , Justin Williams (NC, associate dean, School of Business and Managemetn), Dan Patterson (NC president).

Helen Tabitha Lindsay and Alexis Currell-Therrien are the recipients of DiRoNA’s 2017 scholarships.

The Distinguished Restaurant of North America (DiRōNA) Award, one of the most prestigious awards for fine dining, has named two Niagara College students as recipients of its 2017 DiRōNA scholarships.

“DiRōNA is excited that two of our seven 2017 DiRoNA Scholarships are being awarded to students from Niagara College” said Scott Breard, DiRōNA executive director. “Niagara College is providing an exceptional education for students seeking careers in the restaurant industry. The campus is conveniently situated in the heart of the Niagara wine region making it a premier location.”

Recipients of the $2,500 (USD) scholarships are Alexis Currell-Therrien who is entering her third year of the Honours Bachelor of Applied Business International Commerce and Global Development program; and Helen Tabitha Lindsay, a first-year student of the Winery and Viticulture Technician program.

Lindsay, who is originally from Toronto, said she was surprised and very happy about the news.

“It’s exciting; I didn’t even know someone from the program had nominated me,” said Lindsay.  “I’m going on a practicum to work at a winery in Portugal at the end of August until mid-December, so this is great timing to receive a scholarship.”

Currell-Therrien, who is a resident of Niagara Falls, said she too was surprised by the news that she would be receiving the scholarship. Her nomination came from the Niagara tourism industry, as she has worked at Whirlpool Aero Car for the past five years.

“I feel ecstatic. This scholarship is really going to help me out in pursuing my studies this year,” said Currell-Therrien.

The students met with representatives from DiRōNA and the College on July 19 to receive their scholarships and were treated to lunch at Benchmark restaurant.

“At Niagara College, our vision is to enrich lives and fulfill dreams of our students, and we thank DiRōNA for their generous scholarships that will help make that happen for two of our students,” said Niagara College president Dan Patterson. “Through its support for student learning, we applaud DiRōNA for its investment in the future of the industry.”

Founded in 1990, DiRōNA was established to promote the fine dining industry and offer recognition to award winners across North America.  The authority for excellence in distinguished dining,  DiRōNA provides a forum for education, networking, philanthropy, and marketing benefits for the distinguished dining community. Since its founding, the DiRōNA Award Scholarship Fund has helped countless students to pursue careers in the restaurant and hospitality industry.

Beau’s Brewery Marks 10th Birthday With Legacy Gift to Niagara College Brewing Students!

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Craft brewery Beau’s All Natural brewing celebrated of 10 years of brewing craft beer in Eastern Ontario, with a special gift to Niagara College.

At a ceremony held July 2 as part of Beau’s 10th birthday celebrations, Tim and Steve Beauchesne announced that beginning with the 2016/2017 academic year, the brewery will be awarding three $1,000 awards and one $2,000 scholarship annually to students enrolled in the Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management program at Niagara College.

The $1,000 awards will be given to level two students who have shown promise in brewing innovation, be that in style, technique, or approach. The $2,000 scholarship, intended to promote diversity and equal representation, will be awarded to a student who is working with cultural, gender or health obstacles or opportunities that may affect his or her academic and career success in craft brewing.

“These legacy gifts are designed to inspire and help direct the promising future of craft brewing in Ontario and in Canada,” said  Beau’s co-founder and CEO Steve Beauchesne. “They reflect the values that our fans and fellow brewers have come to know and expect from Beau’s over the last decade.”

“Strong ties to Ontario’s craft brewers is a key ingredient in our Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management program, and we’re very grateful to Beau’s for their generous contribution, which will support our students’ success,” said Craig Youdale, dean of Niagara College’s Canadian Food and Wine Institute. “I’m particularly pleased that the Beau’s All Natural Brewing Company Scholarship will support students who demonstrate perseverance and an innovative approach – characteristics that we work hard to instill throughout our programs.”

The $1,000 awards will be awarded by faculty to students who meet the criteria. The $2,000 scholarship can be applied for through the college, with a deadline this year of September 30, 2016. Information about the scholarships and awards, including application details, will be posted soon at http://www.niagaracollege.ca/costs-financial-aid/scholarships-and-bursaries.

The Niagara College awards and scholarship are part of a series of announcements marking Beau’s 10th birthday. In May, Beau’s announced the start of its transition to employee ownership, and in early June its partnership as the official brewery of Ottawa 2017. More 10th Birthday announcements will be coming over the coming months as Beau’s looks back on 10 years, as well as forward to the future.

Beau’s All Natural is an employee-owned and totally independent Canadian craft brewery.

Speaker Paul Charette Pops Surprise Donation Announcement at Convocation Ceremony!

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College president Dan Patterson (pictured right) receives a $250,000 cheque from Paul Charette (left) at the June 24 convocation ceremony. The College will match funds from Charette’s donation to establish the Paul and Gerri Charette Scholarship – a $500,000 endowed fund for students in the College’s School of Technology.

More than 50 years ago, a bursary helped Paul Charette gain a college education; today, as a respected leader in the construction industry and strong supporter of the Canadian college system, he is helping other students do the same.

As the guest speaker at Niagara College’s June 24 convocation ceremony, the former CEO and current Board of Directors chair for Bird Construction – who is also the past director of Colleges and Institutes Canada – delivered a surprise announcement to the packed gymnasium of new graduates and their guests: a donation of $250,000 to establish a new scholarship.

“Today, my wife and I are pleased to announce that we are setting up an endowment fund at Niagara College that will help future students financially,” said Charette.

Niagara College will match Charette’s donated funds to create a $500,000 endowed fund, establishing the Paul and Gerri Charette Scholarship dedicated to students in the College’s School of Technology.

The announcement was met with a standing ovation during the ceremony, which celebrated 875 new graduates from the schools of Media Studies, Technology Studies and Trades.

“We are truly grateful for Paul and Gerri’s generous donation. We couldn’t ask for a greater testament to the applied education we offer our students than through this gift from a nationally recognized leader in the construction industry, a college alumnus, and past director of Colleges and Institutes Canada,” said Niagara College president Dan Patterson. “What a wonderful investment in the development of highly-skilled workers needed for the growth of the construction and technology sectors.”

The news was well received by dean of NC’s Media, Trades and Technology Division Misheck Mwaba. “The gesture by Paul and Gerri demonstrates their commitment to supporting the training of the next generation of knowledge workers who will grow and sustain Ontario’s economy,” said Mwaba. “We are extremely grateful that their gesture is directed to the students in our School of Technology. This will encourage students to pursue careers in technology and motivate recipients to focus on their education.”

Charette’s announcement followed his highly inspirational speech to new graduates. He shared the story of his disadvantaged upbringing in Winnipeg where he faced the challenges of poverty – growing up in a family of six in a 700-square-foot home without sewer or water – as well as being raised by an alcoholic and abusive parent. He spoke about how receiving a $200 bursary helped fund his first year of college and how his education contributed to his success.

“You have received an education that will open many doors for you and provide you with many career opportunities,” he told the new graduates.

Charette, who received an Honorary Diploma in Technology Studies during the ceremony, also shared his recipe for success with the new grads. “Get a good education – you now have a great start, but in this age of a knowledge-based economy, rapidly changing job descriptions and new technologies, lifelong learning is more important today than it has ever been,” he said. “Jobs that you may have in the next five years could disappear and you may be working in a job in the next five to 10 years that does not even exist today. You need to be prepared.”

The ceremony capped off the College’s largest ever spring convocation ceremonies to date, celebrating more than 4,570 new graduates from June 21-24.

Niagara College School of Technology

Niagara College’s School Technology offers a variety of programs, from engineering to renewable energies. Students study at the Welland Campus in the newly renovated Rankin Technology Centre. The 120,000-square-foot complex and features classrooms and labs with the latest state-of-the-art equipment, including a welding lab, drafting room, materials lab, and a 10,000-square-foot ‘big bay’ where two-storey homes can be constructed. For information visit: http://www.niagaracollege.ca/technology-studies

About Niagara College

Niagara College offers more than 100 diploma, bachelor degree and advanced level programs at campuses in Welland, Niagara-on-the-Lake, and Niagara Falls; as well as more than 600 credit, vocational and general interest Continuing Education 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, horticulture and esthetics. For more information visit NiagaraCollege.ca.

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Media inquiries, please contact:

Michael Wales
Senior Communications Officer
Office: 905.735.2211 ext. 7773
Cell: 905.328.4101
[email protected]

Julie Greco
Communications Specialist
Office: 905.735.2211 ext. 7368
Cell: 905.328.2532
[email protected]

TD Bank Group’s $150,000 gift to establish new environmental studies bursary

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From left: Niagara College President Dr. Dan Patterson; Elizabeth Spaan, Senior Regional Manager, TD Wealth; Coby Hawkins, Niagara District Vice President, TD Canada Trust; Peter Berridge, Relationship Manager, TD Commercial Banking; Derek Brodie, Investment Advisor and Branch Manager, TD Wealth; Tim Caughey, Portfolio Manager, TD Wealth.

TD Bank Group announced a $150,000 gift to Niagara College’s Achieving Dreams Campaign today, which will establish a new bursary to support students in Niagara College’s environmental programs.

Beginning in the 2016-2017 school year, more than 80 students over four years will receive financial awards via the TD Environmental Studies Bursaries. The award will be based on both academic excellence and financial need.

“TD is proud to support Niagara College’s Achieving Dreams Campaign,” said Coby Hawkins, District Vice President, Niagara Region, TD Canada Trust. “We’re committed to building stronger communities through education and environmental stewardship. We believe that the TD Environmental Studies Bursaries will help provide valuable opportunities for students and make a meaningful difference in Niagara and beyond.”

Announced on Earth Day, the bursaries will be available to students studying in environmental programs, including Environmental Technician – Field and Laboratory (Co-op);  Ecosystem Restoration; Environmental Management and Assessment; Geographic Information Systems – Geospatial Management; and Renewable Energies Technician.

“We at Niagara College are very proud of our environmental programs as well as our strong commitment to environmental responsibility,” said Niagara College President Dan Patterson. “The students in these programs will go on to make our communities more sustainable, and we’re very grateful for TD Bank’s investment in their success.”

The TD Bank Group gift brings Niagara College closer to its $7 million Achieving Dreams Campaign goal, which includes $4 million for campus redevelopment, $2 million for scholarships and bursaries, and $1 million for equipment and learning resources.

Niagara College offers more than 100 diploma, bachelor degree and advanced level programs at campuses in Welland, Niagara-on-the-Lake, and Niagara Falls; as well as more than 600 credit, vocational and general interest Continuing Education 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, horticulture and esthetics. For more information visit NiagaraCollege.ca.

About TD Community Giving

TD Bank Group invests in communities in order to effect positive change in the places where it operates and where its customers and employees live and work. In 2015, TD donated more than $92.5 million to community organizations in Canada, the United States and the United Kingdom. In Canada, TD focuses on education and financial literacy, creating opportunities for young people and the environment. For further information, please visit www.td.com/corporate-responsibility.

Niagara College Receives $2.6 Million Bequest

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Left to right, Niagara College Student Administrative Council president Shane Malcolm; Marta Voege, cousin of donor Eva Lewis; and Niagara College president Dan Patterson unveil plans for the Eva M. Lewis Library and Learning Commons at the Welland Campus.

Niagara College held a special ceremony today to mark the largest personal gift in its history.

Eva Mary Lewis, a school teacher raised in Welland who had family ties to Niagara College, left $2.6 million to the college when she passed away in 2013 at the age of 99. The contribution will support the Achieving Dreams Campaign, which is raising funds for Niagara College’s Capital Vision campus redevelopment projects, scholarships and bursaries, and equipment and learning resources.

The bequest was in addition to Lewis’s almost $500,000 in contributions to Niagara College between 2000-2008 to support scholarships, bursaries and the Welland Campus library.

To mark Lewis’s remarkable generosity, Niagara College officially named the hub of the Welland Campus the Eva M. Lewis Library and Learning Commons. Through Capital Vision projects, these spaces will be transformed to create a more integrated, vibrant learning hub with enhanced learning support services to help students achieve success.

“Eva Lewis was a remarkable individual who was very passionate about the important role that education can play in a person’s life,” said Niagara College president Dan Patterson. “Literally, generations of students will benefit from her remarkable generosity. I can’t think of a more appropriate way to celebrate Eva’s legacy than to have the heart of this campus named in her honour.”

Lewis’ contributions to Niagara College began in 2000 when she gave a gift of $294,037 to Niagara College to establish the Ellen and Patricia Lewis Memorial Scholarship in memory of her nieces, both of whom studied at Niagara College, and both of whom passed away relatively early in life due to illness. Three Ellen and Patricia Lewis Memorial Scholarships are awarded annually.

In 2004 Lewis and her sister, Helen, contributed $170,790 – which was matched by the provincial government for a total of $342,112 – to establish the Eva Mary and Helen Katherine Lewis Bursary, through which 15 bursaries are awarded annually.

To date, almost 250 students have benefitted from the Lewis scholarships and bursaries.

“This award not only helped me focus on school without stressing or having to work longer hours, but also pushed me to work harder in school,” said Shane McLeod, a second-year student in Niagara College’s Community and Justice Services program. “I am very thankful for Eva Lewis’s generous contribution to Niagara College, and feel it is very important that students recognize the impact donors like her can have on our education. She has made a tremendous impact on my education which I am forever grateful.”

Lewis’s $33,816 contribution to the College’s Building Futures Campaign in 2008 supported the expansion and relocation of the Welland Campus library.

“Eva was a very compassionate woman. She was very independent and very committed to education. She’d be very happy that things are happening this way – but she’d be embarrassed by the attention,” said Marta Voege, Lewis’s cousin. “I’m proud that her name and Helen’s name and the family name is there, but I’m not as gratified about that as having known her. She really had an impact on everybody.”

The Achieving Dreams Campaign is raising funds to support Niagara College’s Capital Vision campus redevelopment plan, as well as instructional equipment, scholarships and bursaries, and study abroad and leadership development opportunities. To learn more or to contribute, visit www.niagaracollege.ca/donate.

Niagara College offers more than 100 diploma, bachelor degree and advanced level programs at campuses in Welland, Niagara-on-the-Lake, and Niagara Falls; as well as more than 600 credit, vocational and general interest Continuing Education 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, horticulture and esthetics. For more information visit NiagaraCollege.ca.

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A video tribute shown at today’s announcement is available at
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_3BsIN6y2Y

Media inquiries, please contact:

Michael Wales
Senior Communications Officer
Office: 905.735.2211 ext. 7773
Cell: 905.328.4101
[email protected]

Julie Greco
Communications Specialist
Office: 905.735.2211 ext. 7368
Cell: 905.328.2532
[email protected]

About Eva Lewis

Born in Sudbury in 1914, Lewis was a first-generation Canadian whose parents emigrated from Ukraine. As a child she lived in Dain City and she studied to be a seamstress before attending teacher’s college. She began her teaching career in Cornwall, ON, before moving to Toronto, where she taught home economics at Danforth Technical School and Bickford Park School.  An avid gardener who travelled extensively, Lewis retired to Port Colborne, where she passed away in 2013.