Largest individual donation in College’s history to transform healthcare education and support student success

Niagara College’s ongoing commitment to addressing the local healthcare workforce shortage received significant support on April 5, when  a historic $5 million donation from the Myhal Family Foundation was announced at the College’s 33^rd  annual gala. As part of the Together campaign, the gift will help expand the College’s healthcare programs and facilities to meet the growing demand for skilled nursing professionals.

“This transformational gift is a bold step toward solving one of the most pressing challenges in our region,” said NC President Sean Kennedy. “With the support of the Myhal Family Foundation, we are expanding access to health education by ensuring that more students from diverse backgrounds can pursue careers in nursing and help build a healthier, stronger Niagara.”

A portion of the gift $3 million, will support the 75,000 sq. ft. expansion of the Applied Health building at the Welland Campus. New classrooms, labs, and community spaces will enhance learning opportunities for nursing and health sciences students.

Additionally, $1.25 million will fund scholarships for students in the recently established Honours Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) degree program, while $750,000 will be dedicated to scholarships for Indigenous students pursuing healthcare careers.

“As a former nursing student, I deeply appreciate the dedication and resilience required to begin a career in nursing and healthcare,” said Rayla Myhal, president of the Myhal Family Foundation. “For us, this is about people: patients, students, and families. We see Niagara College as a driving force in shaping the healthcare workforce of our community.”

Rayla and George Myhal are prominent philanthropists and new owners of Featherstone Winery in Vineland.

“As newcomers to Niagara, we were eager to lay down roots and partner with an organization who we could work with to make a meaningful impact,” said George Myhal. “Niagara College was a natural choice as our first philanthropic partnership in our new home.”

Through their Foundation, the Myhals are dedicated to advancing education, healthcare, social services, arts and culture, and causes that support the Ukrainian-Canadian community. They have supported institutions including the University of Toronto, St. Joseph’s Hospital, Princess Margaret Hospital, and the Royal Conservatory of Music.

“Our partnership with Niagara College reflects a long-term commitment to the health and well-being of our community,” added Rayla Myhal. “It demonstrates the power of collective action, and our belief that together we can overcome the challenges facing society.”

The Myhal Family Foundation’s gift is especially significant, given the region’s increasing demand for healthcare professionals.

“This generous gift is allowing us to enhance our facilities, broadening access to nursing education,” said Dr. Sinéad McElhone, Dean of Health Sciences. “With these expanded resources, we will be better positioned to continue to provide our students with the hands-on training and support they need to succeed in an increasingly complex healthcare environment.”

In recognition of their generosity, Niagara College will name its nursing school the Myhal School of Nursing.

This $5 million donation is part of the College’s Together campaign, a multi-year, $50 million initiative focused on addressing critical workforce shortages in skilled trades and healthcare, making education more accessible, creating diverse learning environments, 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.

Niagara College celebrated two transformational gifts at its 33^rd annual gala on April 5 at Fallsview Casino Resort–a $5 million donation from the Myhal Family Foundation, the largest individual gift in college history, and a $2 million donation from the Segal Family and GuardMe International Insurance, the largest individual gift toward a student program.

As part of the Together campaign, the $5 million donation from the Myhal Family Foundation supports the College’s plans to meet the significant shortage of healthcare practitioners. The gift includes:

• $3 million to support the 75,000 sq. ft. expansion of the Applied Health building at the Welland campus, creating new classrooms, labs, and community spaces for nursing students, personal support workers, and others.
• $1.25 million to create new scholarships for Bachelor of Science Nursing students at the College. The 4-year BScN program launched in 2024.
• $750,000 to create new scholarships for indigenous students studying in healthcare programs.

“This historic gift directly addresses the challenges and shortages facing our healthcare sector and workforce. Thanks to the generous support of the Myhals, the next generation of healthcare practitioners are being empowered, and doors are being opened for underrepresented individuals,” said NC President Sean Kennedy. “We are honoured to welcome Rayla and George to our growing community of valued donors and partners supporting students through the Together campaign.”

In recognition of the gift, the College is naming its nursing school the Myhal School of Nursing.

“As recent newcomers to Niagara we are excited to enhance this wonderful community in a way that will have a direct, positive impact,” said Rayla Myhal, President of the Myhal Family Foundation. “We know that Niagara College is the engine that drives frontline healthcare in our community. We’re pleased to support access to education for students who will fill critical roles in our hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.”

George and Rayla Myhal are prominent philanthropists and owners of Featherstone Winery in Vineland. Through their family Foundation, they are committed to advancing education, healthcare, social services, arts and culture, as well as causes that support the Ukrainian-Canadian community.

The evening also featured a $2 million announcement from long-time supporters Keith and Sharon Segal and GuardMe International Insurance toward the College’s award-winning Be World Ready program.

“Niagara College has long recognized the need for skilled and knowledgeable graduates with the competencies and perspectives that only a truly global experience can provide,” said Keith Segal, President and CEO of GuardMe International Insurance. “Our family and GuardMe are thrilled to support Be World Ready, a truly unique program in postsecondary education that helps create globally-minded, world-ready graduates who will drive key sectors in Canada and beyond.”

Be World Ready offers short-term international field studies, study abroad exchange programs, summer institutes, and work abroad opportunities. Since 2012, more than 1,500 students and employees have participated in life-changing experiences across 33 countries.

“The Segal Family and GuardMe International Insurance have had a lasting impact on NC students through scholarships, learning resources, and the Segal Family International Centres at our Niagara campuses,” said Gord Arbeau, NC Vice President of Advancement. “We are deeply grateful for our continued partnership that will equip even more graduates with the global experiences needed to make a difference in an interconnected world.”

Since 2008, the Segal Family and GuardMe have contributed more than $1.7 million to student success initiatives at NC. The latest gift brings their cumulative support to over $3.7 million.

The record-breaking Niagara College Gala celebrated the success of the Together campaign, which launched during last year’s gala. More than 625 donors, community leaders, business partners, and supporters enjoyed fine dining, entertainment, and live and silent auctions. The event also funded 34 new scholarships and bursaries for students. Over its 33-year history, the gala has raised almost $4 million in support of student success and Niagara College.

With strong community support, the multi-year Together campaign continues to raise funds for scholarships, capital expansions, innovative teaching, and research. As the second year of the campaign begins, Niagara College remains focused on addressing critical workforce shortages in skilled trades and healthcare, making education more accessible, creating diverse learning environments, 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.”

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