Canerector Foundation funds new Niagara College Skilled Trades student scholarships with $500,000 gift

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A person welds metal in a lab.

In response to Ontario’s growing skilled trades shortage, the Canerector Foundation is making a transformational multi-year gift to Niagara College to fund new student scholarships and support programs.

Starting next September, the new Canerector Scholars Program at Niagara College will provide scholarships to more than 50 students over five years, who are pursuing careers in trades programs such as welding, carpentry, motive power, and engineering technologies. In addition to these scholarships, the Canerector Skilled Trades Dean’s Council will provide students with mentorship and leadership development to help them grow both professionally and personally.

“The generous funding from the Canerector Foundation is much needed as the demand for skilled trades, engineering technicians and engineering technologist professionals remains at an all-time high,” said Leo Tiberi, Dean, Media, Trades, and Technology.

“We know first-hand that scholarships are essential in attracting more students to our programs and helping them overcome financial barriers to pursuing exciting careers in industry. This support will enable the College to cultivate a strong and diverse workforce for the future.”

Eligible students from the following programs will receive funding:

  • Welding Technician (2-year programs)
  • Carpentry & Renovation (2-year programs)
  • Motive Power (2-year programs)
  • Construction Engineering Technology (3-year programs)
  • Mechanical Engineering Technology (3-year programs)

Each scholarship will include $1,000 per college term and a $1,000 award upon graduation, ensuring support throughout and beyond the students’ academic journey.

“Skilled trades are a critical contributor to the success of our overall economy,” said Amanda Hawkins, Canerector CEO and Director of the Foundation. “The Canerector Foundation is pleased to support skilled trades education, encouraging students to pursue these rewarding and in-demand careers.”

“NC students are the direct beneficiaries of this remarkably generous gift. We are deeply thankful to the Canerector Foundation for its investment in Niagara College students, who are essential to addressing the ongoing shortages in skilled trades,” said Gord Arbeau, Vice President, Advancement.

The Canerector Foundation was established in 2019 by the Hawkins family as a way to give back and support communities in Canada and around the world. One of its key support pillars is the skilled trades, which played a pivotal role in Canerector Inc.’s history and development.

As industries like construction, manufacturing, and renewable energy continue to grow in Niagara and beyond, skilled trades are critical to economic recovery.

“Through Canerector Foundation scholarships, students from diverse backgrounds will receive financial support to pursue trade programs in high-demand fields. With the additional peer mentorship, guided by the Canerector Skilled Trades Dean’s Council, we will foster leadership, industry engagement, and invaluable knowledge-sharing,” said Julie Niemiec, Manager, Apprenticeship.

A person uses saw to cut a piece of wood.

A student uses equipment in NC’s School of Trades carpentry lab to cut a piece of wood.

The Canerector Skilled Trades Dean’s Council will also launch in Fall 2025 and serve as a platform for mentorship and industry engagement. Led by Media, Trades, and Technology Dean Leo Tiberi, Manager of Apprenticeship Julie Niemiec, and Project Manager Erica Horton, the Council will include the inaugural scholarship recipients and first group of Canerector Scholars. The Council will bring together student leaders to design mentorship opportunities and industry activities that foster long-term connections and support the next generation of skilled trades professionals.

Potential mentorship activities include establishing a Women in Trades & Technology group to promote diversity and leadership, organizing a Canerector Speaker Series with industry professionals, and hosting high school recruitment events to inspire future students. Canerector Scholars will also serve as ambassadors during industry visits and participate in a year-over-year mentorship system to support incoming students.

“Through the Together campaign, donors can contribute to addressing the skilled trades crisis by helping us train workers for essential infrastructure projects, including millions of new homes and other large initiatives, in Niagara, across the province, and across the country,” said Shannon Boeckner, Senior Director, Development and Donor Stewardship.

A person installs roof shingles using a hammer.

A student practices installing roof shingles during hands-on training in NC’s School of Trades.

The College’s Together campaign is a multi-year $50 million fundraising initiative that, in addition to addressing shortages in skilled trades and healthcare, aims to make college education more accessible, create equitable and diverse learning environments, equip graduates with cultural awareness and global competencies, and foster research, creativity, and innovation to help close Canada’s productivity gap.

Community partners and donors are invited to learn more about the important priorities of the Together campaign by visiting niagaracollege.ca/together. Discover how you can support this and other worthwhile initiatives by getting involved.

About the Canerector Foundation

The Canerector Foundation is a registered, non-profit Canadian charitable organization founded by the Hawkins family, owners of Canerector Inc. — a group of over 50 companies that design and manufacture industrial products across a wide range of industries. Since its formal establishment in October 2019, the Canerector Foundation has donated over $20 million to Canadian-based charities that support communities across the country and around the world. To date, the foundation has focused on supporting skilled trades education, healthcare (particularly Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes), housing, and at-risk youth.

FirstOntario Credit Union supports student success through new scholarship and Nourishing Minds

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A group of people standing together and holding a cheque while posing for a photo.

Students passionate about volunteering and community engagement will soon have new opportunities for recognition and support.

FirstOntario Credit Union is contributing $50,000 to promote student success, foster volunteerism and community engagement, and enhance food security at Niagara College. The multi-year donation will establish a new endowed scholarship and enhance the Nourishing Minds Fund, two initiatives that directly benefit students.

“We are proud of our strong partnership with FirstOntario Credit Union, whose leadership in volunteerism and community engagement aligns perfectly with our values at Niagara College,” said Gord Arbeau, Vice President, Advancement “This generous gift will provide much-needed financial support for our students while also encouraging a culture of giving back and serving our community.”

Over two years, $25,000 will be allocated to a new endowed student award and the remaining $25,000 will be directed toward the Nourishing Minds Fund. The significant contribution is part of the College’s broader Together campaign, which aims to support student development, wellbeing, and community involvement.

The new FirstOntario Credit Union Scholarship will recognize students dedicated to volunteerism and community engagement. Inspired by FirstOntario’s Blue Wave Volunteers, a dedicated group of employees who have contributed over 15,000 volunteer hours to date, the scholarship will reward students making a meaningful impact in our communities.

“At FirstOntario, we are dedicated to tackling societal challenges such as food insecurity and youth health and wellness, which is why we are pleased to establish this ongoing endowment at Niagara College,” said Joanne Battaglia, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Communications & Community Partnerships at FirstOntario Credit Union. “We have deep roots in Niagara, spanning 85 years, and are home to many of our members and employees. We greatly appreciate the contributions that Niagara College and its students make to the ongoing vibrancy of our region.”

Consideration will be given to students who demonstrate a history of volunteer work, leadership in community initiatives, and a passion for giving back – all qualities that reflect FirstOntario’s commitment to fostering a culture of service and civic engagement. Applications for the new FirstOntario Credit Union Scholarship will open in 2027.

Four people wearing blue aprons that say "Student Nutrition Program" on them, stand together by a larger "Proud Community Partner" pull-up banner.

Blue Wave volunteers from FirstOntario Credit Union attend NCSAC’s Rise and Shine breakfast at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

FirstOntario has been a steadfast supporter of NC student success for close to 30 years, including impactful contributions to the annual Niagara College Gala and Golf Classic. Both fundraising events benefit students and athletes through scholarships, bursaries, and equipment purchases to ensure they have the tools and resources they need to succeed. Since 2013, the FirstOntario Credit Union Business Scholarship has also directly supported more than 25 student leaders in community services programs.

FirstOntario is additionally helping Niagara College’s Student Administrative Council (NCSAC) combat food insecurity on campus through the Nourishing Minds Fund. Established in 2015 to provide students with access to healthy food options on a regular basis, Nourishing Minds helps thousands of students every year through its grocery gift card and Rise and Shine breakfast programs.

“We know that a lack of consistent access to food profoundly impacts students’ health and ability to succeed. The Nourishing Minds Fund represents an ideal partnership and is a great resource that we are happy to support,” said Battaglia.

Students line up to receive a warm breakfast served by volunteers in support of the Rise & Shine Breakfast Program.

Students line up on Giving Tuesday 2024 for a hot breakfast served by NCSAC and Blue Wave volunteers from FirstOntario Credit Union.

For Giving Tuesday 2024 on December 3, a group of FirstOntario’s dedicated Blue Wave volunteers visited the Daniel J. Patterson Campus to lend their hands and hearts to serve a hot breakfast to hundreds of students relying on these meals to start their day with energy and focus.

“It’s such a relief to know that I can grab something quick and nutritious before class. It’s one less thing to worry about when I’m trying to balance everything else in my day,” said student Carmen R., who has used the free breakfast program a few times.

FirstOntario’s commitment to being NC’s Giving Tuesday partner for the next two years means the $25,000 pledge will help address the immediate needs of students facing food insecurity.

“I’m proud to be a Blue Wave volunteer and support the many great initiatives that happen throughout our region,” said Kelly Taylor-McNeil, Branch Manager, Fourth Avenue, St. Catharines, FirstOntario Credit Union. “I have a particular interest in supporting students and seeing first-hand the positive difference this program makes and our credit union’s support of it, is heartwarming.”

“We are grateful that FirstOntario sets such a powerful example for other community partners to get involved in supporting students in meaningful ways,” said Shannon Boeckner, Senior Director, Development and Donor Stewardship. “We know this gift to our Together campaign will create a lasting impact on our students, alumni, and the wider community.”

The College’s Together campaign is actively raising funds to support student success. In addition to addressing the crises in healthcare and skilled trades, the multi-year $50 million fundraising campaign also seeks to make college education more accessible, create equitable and diverse learning environments, equip graduates with cultural awareness and global competencies, and foster research, creativity, and innovation to help close Canada’s productivity gap.

Community partners and donors are invited to learn more about the important priorities of the Together campaign by visiting niagaracollege.ca/together. Discover how you can support this and other worthwhile initiatives by getting involved.

Get your tickets now for the NC Gala at a special employee rate

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Mark your calendars for the 33rd annual Niagara College Gala on Saturday, April 5 at the Fallsview Casino Resort.

With live music, dancing, special announcements, and a live and silent auction, NC’s biggest fundraising event of the year promises to be a memorable evening in support of our students and the Together campaign.

Once again, talented NC students and alumni will take center stage, including alumna Krissy Vann (Broadcasting – Radio, Television and Film, 2008), who is returning for the second year in a row to host the festivities.

Tickets for the event are $300 each (including a $50 tax receipt), or $3,000 for a table of 10.

For NC employees, the College is pleased to offer a special ticket price of $250 with the option to purchase one additional ticket at the same rate. Please note, discounted tickets are not eligible for a tax receipt. Employees can purchase tickets online using the link below (when filling out the form, choose “$250” and “NC Gala – Staff Ticket” in the Donation Amount section):

Employee link to purchase gala tickets

The annual gala is coordinated by NC Community Relations and Events, in collaboration with Development and Donor Stewardship, Alumni Relations, and with support from other college areas and community partners. Since its inception, the event has raised over $3.5 million to fund equipment, learning resources, scholarships and bursaries for students.

Visit the NC Gala website for more information, including accommodation options, and to view highlights from last year’s sell-out event.

If you have questions, please email them to [email protected]. Heather McFarlane, who joined the Community Relations and Events team in October 2024, will respond to inquiries on behalf of the organizing team.

We hope you will join us on April 5 for an unforgettable evening as we celebrate ‘NC Life’ at the Gala!

About Krissy Vann

With roots in Niagara-on-the-Lake and St. Catharines, Krissy Vann is a distinguished alumna of Niagara College’s esteemed Broadcasting – Radio, Television and Film program (2008), during which she interned at Canterbury Television in New Zealand.

Over the course of her career, Krissy has worked as a national weather presenter and video journalist with The Weather Network (TWN), appeared as a weather presenter and field reporter for CBC News Network, and was the Community Host and Segment Producer on CTV Morning Live Vancouver from 2018-2022.

Krissy is currently the Director of Content, Host and Producer of All Things Fitness and Wellness (ATFW), an industry podcast and YouTube channel promoting health and wellness in the digital sphere. ATFW was established from Krissy’s own commitment to leading an active lifestyle and her love for fitness, travel and adventure.

Learn more about Krissy on her website.

Goettler Family doubles scholarship contributions supporting single parents

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A group of five people, and a guide dog, stand indoors next to a sign.

An increase in funding from the Goettler Family is significantly expanding support for single parents studying at Niagara College.

The new $54,000 pledge will provide six annual $3,000 scholarships over the next three years to help alleviate the financial burdens faced by students balancing their educational goals with parenting responsibilities.

For Liz Nerida Mamani Torocahua, a Business Administration-Marketing Co-op student, being among the first single parents to receive the $3,000 scholarship was transformative.

“Knowing that Lauren and Vaughn Goettler believed in me by granting me this scholarship gave me the strength to keep going, no matter how tough things got,” said Mamani Torocahua. She notes that there were times when she needed to utilize some of the funds to provide healthy food for her family. “Now, I make it my mission to share the kindness I received from the Goettlers every day.”

The cause holds a special place in Lauren Goettler’s heart, who alongside her husband Vaughn, is a prominent community philanthropist. She remembers experiencing firsthand the challenges of single parenthood and was inspired to redirect funding toward the new Goettler Family Foundation Scholarship for Single Parents.

“This is truly a heartfelt issue for me because, in addition to single-parenting three children, I was unable to attend law school after being accepted. Finances just didn’t permit it. But my dream was to become a family law lawyer. I hope our scholarships help others achieve their dreams,” said Lauren Goettler.

A Goettler Family Foundation Scholarship was originally established in 2021 to provide 12 $1,000 scholarships to students in each of the College’s main schools. Donating to students is a priority for the Goettler Family because they see Niagara College as essential to nurturing talent, creativity, and optimism throughout the Niagara region.

“Many NC students juggle family responsibilities and their educations. The Goettler’s generous gift recognizes, supports, and celebrates these amazing students and parents. The increased scholarships will make a big difference for these families and for our community,” said Gord Arbeau, Vice President, Advancement.

Lauren and Vaughn Goettler, along with their foundation’s director, Jodey Porter, visited Benchmark Restaurant at the Daniel J. Patterson campus last July to meet some of the scholarship recipients. The luncheon was a unique opportunity to hear directly from students about their NC journey and the impact the scholarships had on their success.

For Julia Krasovec, receiving funding toward her Honours Bachelor of Business Administration (Human Resources) studies was essential for covering her tuition, which was not fully covered by OSAP. “Support from organizations like the Goettler Family Foundation is vital for students who must balance work, assignments, and family obligations,” she said. “It makes a significant difference to have that burden lightened, and I’m really grateful for it.”

The bond forged between the donors and students is a lasting one.

“Spending time with Liz and Julia helped put a face to the impact the awards make,” said Jodey Porter. “It’s wonderful that Niagara College facilitated the opportunity for us to get to know each other on a personal level. We feel fortunate to help students and hope to set an example of how impactful community giving can be.”

The Goettler Family Foundation Scholarship for Single Parents exemplifies how donors can support personally meaningful causes that also aid underrepresented students.

Making college education more accessible is a key priority for Niagara College, and a pillar of the Together campaign, which aims to expand scholarships and bursaries so that every student can access support. In addition to empowering student success, the multi-year $50 million fundraising campaign is addressing the worker shortages in trades and healthcare, creating equitable and diverse learning environments, equipping graduates with cultural awareness and global competencies, and fostering research, creativity, and innovation to help close Canada’s productivity gap.

Community partners and donors are invited to learn more about the important priorities of the Together Campaign by visiting niagaracollege.ca/together. Discover how you can support this and other worthwhile initiatives by getting involved.

New scholarship fund is on the menu for NC Culinary, Tourism and Beverage students

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Benchmark guests scan QR code to donate in lieu of tips

Whether they’re preparing meals in the kitchen or serving guests in the restaurant, Niagara College students are at the heart of every event and charitable activity rolled out by the Culinary, Tourism and Beverage Studies division – and now there’s a way for guests who enjoy the fruits of their labour to help give back.

A new Student Experience Scholarship Fund has been launched at NC. Funds raised will support scholarship awards for select students from the schools of Culinary Arts, Hospitality and Tourism, and Wine, Beer and Spirits. Students who are highly engaged outside of the classroom and demonstrate exemplary leadership and teamwork skills – through their work at Benchmark restaurant or as a volunteer for the numerous events and charitable activities hosted by the division – may be eligible for the awards.

In lieu of leaving a gratuity for service at Benchmark restaurant or special event hosted by the Culinary, Tourism and Beverage Studies division, guests will be encouraged to donate to the Student Experience Scholarship Fund.

Currently, Benchmark does not accept gratuities at the end of a patron’s dining experience to ensure the focus is kept on the learning and educational opportunities for students. With this new fund, patrons who receive great service or those looking to support students have a vehicle for giving back.

Donations may now be made by scanning a QR code which will appear on menus or through an online donation form.

The initiative was introduced front of a sold-out crowd for A Chef’s Journey dinner event at Benchmark restaurant on November 28.  Craig Youdale, Dean of the Culinary, Tourism and Beverage Studies division, who was also the featured chef at the event, highlighted the importance of supporting students through the new Scholarship Fund throughout the evening.

“Financially supporting students is always top of mind for us here at the College. The financial obligations that students face today continue to get tougher and finding ways to help is important,” said Youdale. “Our division has so many events and community activities and we want to encourage our students to get involved and enrich their time at Niagara College. We hope this funding will get even more students involved and part of the amazing opportunities for the students.”

“This fund is such a wonderful addition to the many great awards that we offer at Niagara College,” said Development Officer Emily O’Connor. “Now, we’re able to celebrate the students who contribute to campus life and strive to make Benchmark and NC a positive leader in the community.”

The new initiative is already a hit at Benchmark restaurant.

“I love the opportunity to be able to reward our highest achieving students,” said Victor Oliveira, Manager, Catering and Special Events. “They pour their heart and soul to our guests while working very hard to learn the ins and outs of restaurant operations.”

Frequent guests Dan and Colette Totino were among the first to support the new Student Experience Scholarship Fund and noted they were excited to learn that NC will be offering it.

“During all the years we have dined at Benchmark, we have watched many wonderful students enter and graduate from the program. Teamwork and leadership skills are qualities that are so important in anyone’s career and should be recognized in deserving students,” said Totino. “We are also pleased that both front of house and back of house students will be recognized with this award.”

Niagara resident Victoria Morley, Benchmark patron and supporter of the new fund, said it was a wonderful idea that could provide additional motivation for students, as well as a “pat on the back” for recipients.

“Scholarships can provide additional ability or opportunity for prospective students to gain entry to education programs which some students may not be able to quite afford without outside financial provision,” said Morely. “And scholarships are an additional way to commend and reward a student for comparatively higher academic achievement and provide incentive for continued higher education.”

Students will be selected by managers and faculty to receive the new award each term, once enough funds have accumulated – expected by Fall 2025.

Related posts:

New signature dinner series to celebrate NC’s academic chefs and alumni

CKTB: Craig Youdale on NC’s new signature dinner series

 

 

Niagara College Golf Classic sets a new record, raising almost $100,000 for student-athlete scholarships

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Five men dressed in navy polo shirts and khaki shorts stand on a golf course with arms around each other. A golf bag labeled "Knights" is in the foreground. Golf carts and trees are in the background.

On Tuesday, September 17th, 162 golfers hit the links at Peninsula Lakes Golf Club for the 22nd annual Niagara College Golf Classic fundraiser. Presented by CIBC International Student Pay, the event raised almost $100,000–a new record–bringing the tournament’s cumulative total over the past 22 years to nearly $1 million for varsity athletic scholarships and bursaries.

“Varsity athletics is such an important part of the Niagara College student experience, and we’re very grateful for the generosity of our guests and sponsors, whose ongoing support creates much-needed scholarships and bursaries for our high-performing student-athletes,” said Gord Arbeau, Vice President, Advancement.

Proceeds from the tournament will establish three new $1,000 scholarships and fund an additional 32 scholarships ranging from $1,500 to $3,000.

“As Knights athletes, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in this year’s Niagara College Golf Classic,” said Montanna Taylor, a star of NC’s women’s varsity volleyball team. “You helped raise the highest amount ever for athletic scholarships, and we sincerely appreciate your ongoing support.”

“Varsity scholarships are not just financial awards; they bridge the gap in making higher education more accessible for those of us who have the talent, skill, and ability to compete with some of the best student-athletes in the country,” said Taylor, who recently completed the Paramedic program and is currently enrolled in Business while playing her fifth year with the Knights.

Niagara College provides some financial support for every varsity athlete, including various scholarships and bursaries that cover tuition, books, groceries, bills, and other essential expenses.

“Montanna is a shining example of a hardworking athlete and student,” said Michele O’Keefe, Director, Athletics & Student Engagement. “We are very proud of every Knight who studies hard and trains hard to represent NC within our community.”

Collage of photos showing students volunteering at the 2024 Niagara College Golf Classic

In addition to raising funds for scholarships and bursaries, the Golf Classic provided more than 25 student volunteers with practical, program-related experience. Students from NC’s paramedic program conducted blood pressure checks; esthetician students provided mini hand massages; and massage therapy students offered mini relaxation massages. Overall, more than 30 varsity athletes from volleyball, basketball, and soccer teams volunteered their time for the Golf Classic.

Members of NC’s varsity golf team, including Aidan McVey, Avery Cheeseman, Ethan Siebert, Matthew Palumbi, and Robbie Stewart, delivered clinic instructions to golfers before they teed off and during event competitions on the course.

“Volunteering at the annual golf tournament is always a great day for us,” said Ethan Siebert, who is studying Business Administration – International Business. “Being part of Niagara College and one of the Knights varsity programs creates an environment where all athletes feel supported. When we see our coaches and coordinators putting in hard work day in and day out, it inspires us to push harder individually and as a team.”

Throughout the tournament, representatives from NC Research & Innovation also provided an overview of their current initiatives and projects, while WINEVEC staff offered golfers samples of NC beer and cider. Noble of Niagara, the Knights’ new mascot, attended their first-ever Niagara College Golf Classic. They practiced their swing, cheered on golfers, and handed out treats from an ice cream truck.

The evening dinner and reception honoured the tournament’s top golfers and various competition winners, including the putting challenge, beat the athlete, closest to the keg, and longest drive. Raffle and silent auction winners also took home their prizes as attendees enjoyed a special candy bar.

“Knowing that everyone at NC is rooting for us to succeed is very motivating,” said golf varsity team member Aidan McVey, who is studying Sport Management. “Support like this creates a strong sense of community and reminds us that we’re not just competing for ourselves, but for our teammates and the entire College. It really pushes us to give our best and strive for excellence together.”

Making college education more accessible is a key priority for Niagara College and a pillar of the Together campaign, which aims to expand scholarships and bursaries so that every student can access support. In addition to empowering student success, the multi-year, $50 million fundraising campaign addresses worker shortages in trades and healthcare, creates equitable and diverse learning environments, equips graduates with cultural awareness and global competencies, and fosters research, creativity, and innovation to help close Canada’s productivity gap.

Community partners and donors are invited to learn more about the important priorities of the Together Campaign by visiting niagaracollege.ca/together.

Get Ready for Next Year

Plans are underway for the 23rd annual Niagara College Golf Classic in 2025, with more details coming soon. To relive the highlights from this year, visit the event photo gallery.

 

Tournament Winners

First Place: Telcon Datvox
Second Place: Metroland Media
Third Place: Dell
Most Honest Foursome: Ricoh

Competition Winners

Putting Competition

First Place Winner: Mark Slominski
Second Place Winner: Derek Wdowcyk
Third Place Winner: Steve Weel

Longest Drive

Female Winner: Bev Morgan
Male Winner: Dave Schulz

Closest to the Keg

Female Winner: Claire Rosati
Male Winner: Bryan Caldwell

Sponsors

Niagara College thanks the generous sponsors who made the golf tournament possible, including:

  • Presenting Sponsor: CIBC International Student Pay
  • Dinner Sponsors: Rankin Construction and TD Insurance
  • Golfer Gift Sponsors: Campus Living Centres, Global University Systems Canada, University of Niagara Falls Canada
  • Golf Cart Sponsor: guard.me International Insurance and Meridian Credit Union
  • Lunch Sponsor: University of Niagara Falls Canada
  • Birdie Sponsor: City of Welland
  • Corporate Foursome Sponsors: Advanced Office Solutions, Avaya, Brock University, Canadian Tire Bank, City of St. Catharines, Commercial Cleaning Services, Dell Technologies, Deloitte, District School Board of Niagara, Embark Student Foundation, E.S. Fox Limited, FirstOntario Credit Union, Garland Canada, Great Wolf Lodge, KPMG, Netagen, Paragon Security, Serianni Construction, Telcon Datvox, TD Bank, and Vintage Hotels.
  • Print Sponsors: The Printing House
  • In-Kind Sponsors: White Oaks Resort and Spa and Metroland Media
  • Candy Sponsor: Bulk Barn Canada

‘Build NC’ is the College’s ambitious plan to revitalize our campuses

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A message from Pam Skinner, Senior Vice-President, College Operations:

As anticipation builds for the many physical changes coming to Niagara College, I am pleased to share Build NC, our robust and ambitious plan to expand and renovate our Welland Campus and Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Build NC investments will advance key areas of focus within our Strategic Plan and will make our campuses more accessible and inclusive, enhance teaching, learning and the student experience, and position us to address the challenges of our changing world.

Build NC will be guided by our Master Plan, the document that captures years of collaboration and consultation and identifies guiding principles and a long-term vision for our campuses.

Many of the changes – including the expansion of housing and improvements to classrooms and student gathering spaces – will help prepare students for careers in in-demand fields like health care and the skilled trades, and elevate academic excellence.

The 2024-25 year will be one of continuous progress on significant capital projects. Leveraging surpluses saved diligently over many years, Build NC investments will support our continuous improvement and our mission to support students and train them for in-demand careers. Likewise, the generosity of donors and partners through the Together Campaign will propel Build NC projects and their impact on our community.

The new Build NC website contains details on the many projects on the horizon, including new student housing, a new recreation field and outdoor facility in Welland, an expanded health and community services building, a new student and alumni centre in Niagara-on-the-Lake, an expanded Wine and Visitor Education Centre, and more.

Working groups for each of the projects include representation from across the College and will include various levels of consultation.

I hope you share in my excitement for this new chapter at the College. Please explore our Build NC website to learn more: www.niagaracollege.ca/buildnc, and stay tuned for groundbreaking ceremonies and grand openings to celebrate these projects.

Pam

The Joyce Family Foundation’s milestone gift creates a $1.5 million bursary fund for in-demand healthcare and skilled trades students

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A woman in blue scrubs holds a medical syringe, while a man in an orange hardhat operates a wood saw.

Addressing the Healthcare and Skilled Trades Crises

As demand for healthcare professionals and skilled tradespeople continues to rise across Ontario and Canada, The Joyce Family Foundation has contributed $1.5 million to Niagara College’s Together Campaign. This generous gift will create a bursary fund, the largest endowed bursary in the College’s history, to support students pursuing these critical careers.

Beginning in fall 2025, The Joyce Family Foundation Healthcare and Skilled Trades Bursary Program will cover tuition and ancillary costs for several students from the Niagara region throughout their studies.

“We thank The Joyce Family Foundation for this landmark donation, which directly supports students entering healthcare and skilled trades professions,” said Sean Kennedy, President, Niagara College. “This long-term investment will benefit students now and into the future.”

Each year, between eight and 12 awards will be given, valued between $6,000 and $8,000. These bursaries will support students entering their first year in any program within the School of Trades, the School of Allied Health, and the School of Nursing and Personal Support Worker (PSW). Eligible students will have the opportunity to apply for funding starting in spring 2025.

“We are proud to collaborate with Niagara College to support local students in these high-demand fields,” said Maureen O’Neill, Executive Director, The Joyce Family Foundation. “The Board’s goal is to reduce the financial barriers that many students face so they can fully concentrate on their studies and career preparation.”

The Joyce Family Foundation was established by entrepreneur Ronald V. Joyce, whose philanthropic vision continues through the foundation’s support of education and youth development. The foundation’s mission is to empower young Canadians by providing access to education. At Niagara College, the Foundation will support students committed to working on the frontlines to serve our communities.

Launched in the spring of 2024, Niagara College’s Together Campaign is the largest comprehensive fundraising campaign in the College’s history and is built on several pillars, including addressing a crisis in healthcare driven by shortages on the frontlines in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care.

“There is no bigger issue facing Ontario hospitals today than the serious shortage of healthcare workers,” said Lynn Guerriero, President and Chief Executive Officer, Niagara Health.

Provincial government predictions indicate that 33,200 more nurses and 50,853 more personal support workers will be needed by 2032.

“Niagara College is committed to addressing Ontario’s healthcare crisis by training students for essential frontline positions in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, community health centres, and home care,” said Dr. Sinéad McElhone, Dean, Health Sciences. “The addition of The Joyce Family Foundation Healthcare and Skilled Trades Bursary Program significantly enhances our efforts and couldn’t come at a better time for our students.”

Addressing a similar crisis in skilled trades is also a key pillar of the Together Campaign.

“Ontario needs 100,000 more skilled workers over the next decade to deliver on our government’s ambitious infrastructure plans, including building at least 1.5 million homes by 2031,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.

Niagara College graduates hundreds of skilled tradespeople annually from nearly 20 programs and apprenticeships, such as Carpentry and Renovation Technician, Electrician – Construction and Maintenance, Industrial Millwright Mechanic, Metal Fabricator, Automotive Service Technician, and Welding Technician.

“We know that skilled trades help build communities, and we know there is a strong and growing demand for skilled trades graduates,” said Leo Tiberi, Dean, Media, Trades, and Technology. “The Joyce Family Foundation’s ongoing funding will help train many generations of skilled tradespeople who will serve our community and beyond.”

“The Joyce Family Foundation Healthcare and Skilled Trades Bursary Program is a powerful example of the enduring impact of endowed giving,” said Gord Arbeau, Vice President, Advancement. “This method invests the initial gift to generate returns, and these returns continue to provide ongoing financial support to students for generations. We are very grateful for The Joyce Family Foundation’s outstanding generosity.”

The College’s Together Campaign is a multi-year $50 million fundraising campaign. In addition to addressing the crises in healthcare and skilled trades, the campaign also seeks to make college education more accessible, create equitable and diverse learning environments, equip graduates with cultural awareness and global competencies, and foster research, creativity, and innovation to help close Canada’s productivity gap.

Community partners and donors are invited to learn more about the important priorities of the Together Campaign by visiting niagaracollege.ca/together. Discover how you can support this and other worthwhile initiatives by getting involved.

New mental health program for healthcare students supported by the McCall MacBain Foundation

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Addressing the Healthcare Crisis

More than 200 first-year healthcare students are receiving mental health supports this fall, thanks to a milestone gift to Niagara College’s Together Campaign from the McCall MacBain Foundation that launched the ConfideNCe program.

Among the key pillars of Niagara College’s $50 million Together Campaign – the largest comprehensive fundraising initiative in the College’s history – is addressing the healthcare crisis that is driven by a shortage of frontline workers. As Niagara College seeks to graduate more nurses, personal support workers, and paramedics, the College recognizes the need for a range of supports for students studying in high-stress programs.

Students in the Paramedic, Personal Support Worker (PSW), Practical Nursing, and Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs are learning to better cope with academic and occupational stress and anxiety through targeted interventions designed to build resilience, thanks to McCall MacBain’s generosity.

“We are very grateful to the McCall MacBain Foundation for investing in our future caregivers,” said Dr. Sinéad McElhone, Dean, Health Sciences. “We recognize the unique pressures healthcare students face and are eager to provide them with tools to manage their studies effectively and prepare for the high-stress environments they will encounter in their careers.”

Founded in 2007 by John McCall MacBain and Dr. Marcy McCall MacBain, the McCall MacBain Foundation is committed to advancing human welfare through educational and leadership opportunities. Their support of the ConfideNCe program underscores a strong commitment to student success.

“We are working with post-secondary institutions across Canada to determine how best they can support student well-being and mental health,” said Alexandra Conliffe, President and CEO of the Foundation. “The first year is a critical time to understand students’ needs and provide early interventions to enable them to thrive academically and professionally. We hope this program will support students immediately, while also providing learnings on the well-being needs of students in demanding fields like healthcare.”

The ConfideNCe program offers a range of supports specifically designed to decrease healthcare student attrition rates. These include stress management workshops, mindfulness training, and wraparound supports to promote academic success and wellbeing.

“We are adding supplementary class assistance from lab tutors to help reduce student anxiety and stress, as well as implementing an early detection system to identify at-risk first-year students in the targeted programs,” said Heather Craig-Morton, ConfideNCe Project Manager.

A tailored survey helps assess first-year Nursing and Applied Healthcare students for susceptibility to anxiety, burnout, and potential dropout. This survey is launching alongside Orientation activities to maximize initial uptake. Additional engagements, including classroom visits, emails, and one-on-one appointments, are happening in the first four weeks of the term. The survey will be repeated at the end of Term 1 and Term 2 to measure the impact of specific ConfideNCe Program activities and interventions.

The program’s impact is anticipated to grow to over 400 students as it expands to include winter and summer intakes next year.

“The ConfideNCe program promises to make a profound difference in the lives of healthcare students by proactively addressing the root causes of anxiety and stress,” said Gord Arbeau, Vice President, Advancement. “This in turn will help bolster graduation rates and provide comprehensive personal, social, and academic supports – all thanks to the generosity of The McCall MacBain Foundation.”

The College’s Together Campaign is a multi-year $50 million fundraising campaign. In addition to addressing the crisis in healthcare, the campaign also seeks to address a similar crisis in skilled trades, make college education more accessible, create equitable and diverse learning environments, equip graduates with cultural awareness and global competencies, and foster research, creativity, and innovation to help close Canada’s productivity gap.

Community partners and donors are invited to learn more about the important priorities of the Together Campaign by visiting niagaracollege.ca/together. Discover how you can support this and other worthwhile initiatives by getting involved.

Embark Student Foundation grants $500,000 towards new Indigenous Student Success Pathways project

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A group of indigenous students seated on rocks in an outdoor classroom.

Advancing a more equitable and diverse college

A transformative $500,000 major grant from the Embark Student Foundation to Niagara College’s Together Campaign is reshaping the educational experience for Indigenous students at Niagara College.

This historic gift, the largest ever for Indigenous education at the College, has launched the Indigenous Student Success Pathways Project and supports students from their first day of studies through to graduation and into their careers.

A key pillar of the Together Campaign is to advance a more equitable and diverse college, and Embark’s gift significantly enhances Niagara College’s ability to advance its commitment to Truth and Reconciliation and provide supports and pathways for underrepresented groups.

“We are deeply appreciative of the Embark Student Foundation’s generous contribution,” said Leah Hogan, Director, Indigenous Education, and member of the Oneida Nation of the Thames (Bear Clan). “This funding enables us to implement a tailored support system that will greatly benefit our Indigenous students and align with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.”

The Indigenous Student Success Pathways Project enhances the academic experience and career readiness of Indigenous students by facilitating:

  • Learning Strategists: These professionals offer personalized academic support, including assistance with essay writing, study skills, and addressing individual learning needs, to ensure students receive the guidance necessary to succeed academically.
  • Employment and Co-op Specialists: These specialists focus on preparing students for the workforce by providing résumé and interview coaching, as well as facilitating networking opportunities with potential employers to help students gain practical experience and secure employment after graduation.
  • Cultural and Community Initiatives: The program includes initiatives that foster cultural connection and community engagement, such as land-based learning experiences and events designed to build a supportive campus environment for Indigenous students.
  • Targeted Recruitment: A vehicle wrapped in Indigenous art is being used for recruitment and outreach, traveling to remote communities to promote the program and create a welcoming presence for potential Indigenous students.
  • Emergency Financial Support: To address the financial barriers that can impact students’ education, the project provides emergency funds for essential expenses such as specialized equipment, textbooks, parking, and other costs.

“We are so proud to support the Indigenous Student Success Pathways Project at Niagara College and directly invest in a more equitable future,” said Andrew Lo, CEO at Embark. “This project will provide Indigenous students with the tools and resources they need to succeed along their post-secondary journey, helping even more students and families realize their dreams through education.”

In late 2023, Niagara College submitted a proposal to the Embark Student Foundation Major Grant Program, which offers annual grants of $250,000 to $500,000 to diverse educational institutions across Canada to improve access and foster student empowerment. This year, the program awarded $2.7 million to seven institutions, including Concordia University, Northern Alberta Institute of Technology, Toronto Metropolitan University, University of Lethbridge, University of Toronto, and Vancouver Island University, for their exceptional projects.

Notably, Niagara College is the only college among the recipients, highlighted for its inclusive and forward-thinking approach to supporting Indigenous students.

The Indigenous Education Department supports students through culturally appropriate teachings, academic guidance, leadership opportunities, community referrals, and assistance in navigating the college system. Committed to honouring Indigenous ways of knowing, doing, and being, programs like MPOWER help Indigenous students transition to post-secondary education, while trips like those to Coast Salish Territory provide immersive land-based learning opportunities about Truth and Reconciliation.

Cultural events, including Indigenous History Month, Red Dress Day, and the Moose Hide Campaign invite the broader community to learn about these significant social issues and foster healing and collective action. The College also celebrates Indigenous student achievements at events such as the Indigenous Student Awards Banquet and through the Dr. Phyllis Webstad Indigenous Scholarship.

“The Embark Student Foundation’s commitment to supporting student success throughout their post-secondary journey aligns perfectly with the objectives of the new Indigenous Student Success Pathways Project,” said Gord Arbeau, Vice President, Advancement. “We are extremely grateful for Embark’s strong commitment to the success of Indigenous students.”

The College’s Together Campaign is a multi-year $50 million fundraising campaign. In addition to creating equitable and diverse learning environments, the campaign also seeks to address the healthcare crisis and the skilled trades crisis, make college education more accessible, equip graduates with cultural awareness and global competencies, and foster research, creativity, and innovation to help close Canada’s productivity gap.

Community partners and donors are invited to learn more about the important priorities of the Together Campaign by visiting niagaracollege.ca/together. Discover how you can support this and other worthwhile initiatives by getting involved.