Spring 2023
PROVINCE OF MB COMMITS $10M TO PRAIRIE INNOVATION CENTRE
Prairie Innovation Centre edges closer with provincial support.
$1.7M FROM WESTON FAMILY FOUNDATION
Donation supports education and outreach to build healthier soil ecosystems.
A VIEW FROM THE DRIVER'S SEAT
A mature student's journey from high school diploma to automotive instructor at Assiniboine.
3 Student Spotlight: Megan Rae Cavanagh, ECE Workplace
4 Cougars Athletics: A Look Back
6 Centre for Creative Media Grand Opening
10 Weston Family Foundation Supports Soil Health Project
11 Redfern Farm Services Marks 50 Years in Business With Donation to Prairie Innovation Centre
12 Dori Gingera-Beauchemin Receives Honorary Diploma
13 Province Invests $10M in Prairie Innovation Centre
14 Assiniboine at Ag Days
15 EMILI & Assiniboine Collaborate on Ag-Tech Innovation & Education
Meet Jon Pike
After dropping out of high school at 16, Pike found himself at a crossroads, with no clear career path but a desire for a fresh start.
Read his story: Page 8
16 Staff Spotlight: Karen O'Gilvie
18 Legacy Gala Funds Support Black Students
19 Celebrating Rural Rotating Practical Nursing Sites
20 Food Processing Program Connects Careers & Families
21 Students Compete at Design Thinking Challenge
21 Assiniboine Marks 10 Years of Youth-In-Care Tuition Waiver Program
22 ECE Students Host Cardboard Box Challenge
24 Student Award Celebration Recognizes Award Recipients
26 A Night Out with the Brandon Wheat Kings
27 New Partnership with S.E.L Housing Inc.
28 Dr. Deanna Rexe: Academic Leader, Researcher, Award Recipient
30 Assiniboine Alumni New Graduate Mixer
My name is Megan Rae Cavanagh, and I'm a recent graduate of the Early Childhood Education (ECE) Workplace program. I completed the program while working at Roots of Early Learning Centre in Killarney.
I took the ECE Workplace program because, after being in the field as a Child Care Assistant (CCA) for over 12 years, I wanted to increase my knowledge and gain the credentials to prove that I know what I'm doing. I felt like it was the right time to commit to ECE as a career and the ECE Workplace program offered the opportunity to continue contributing financially to my family while also opening doors to more opportunities in the field. I knew that I had the knowledge and experience to be a valuable member of the team at my centre. However, I knew there were things I would gain and learn from formal training. Once the program began, my eyes really opened to the extent of knowledge of child development that trained ECEs have access to, and the resources and supports that are available to us. I believe that now truly is the right time to look at working in early childhood as a career path and that the Workplace program makes it possible for those of us who would otherwise never have that chance.
We had one instructor for the entire program—Teresa Russell— and I thought she was really fantastic and very easy to work with. Getting to know one instructor one-on-one for the entire program was really nice.
I think the courses I gained the most from were Guiding Children's Behaviors and Teaching Strategies. I feel like it put a lot of pieces of the puzzle together for me about what I could do to change how the children are behaving, what their expectations are, and how I could influence the mood of the day.
Attending college has given me the ability to achieve goals I wouldn't have been able to accomplish on my own. It has opened doors and been life-changing. My achievements also give my kids something to look up to. My confidence in my own capabilities has grown, and I can see the ways in which gaining my education has made me a valuable asset to my centre. I have gained an understanding of the reasoning behind why actions taken as adults influence the development of
each child. I have learned a lot about deciphering a budding interest and using it to extend learning. I've also learned more about the importance of my chosen career and how I can advocate for early childhood education.
I love every aspect of working in early childhood education! I get to know the kids and I get to know the families. You build relationships that go behind their years here. I know them when they're in school—I walk the school hallways and will hear a group of kids say, "Hi, Megan!". They know me and remember me. I can influence what their lives are going to become—I help to give them tools that will help them manage their school years and beyond. I just love knowing that what I teach and what I model is going to impact them—it's going to make a difference.
Getting my ECE ll classification led to my being chosen to be a floor supervisor for our preschool program at Roots for Early Learning Centre, the centre I've been with for over six years. It's just fantastic to know that I'm able to step into that role and be more prepared to help train new staff and set the tone for what our centre should be and what it is becoming.
The advice I'd give to others considering postsecondary education is that you can do it! It can be made to work for you at any age. I'm 36—I didn't think, with four kids at this stage in my life, I would be able to go to school and earn a two-year diploma. And there was no way I would have been able to if it wasn't for this particular Workplace program.
What I'd say to other CCAs working in the field is that this program will round out your skillset. If you've already worked in the system for two years, you know this is where you want to be. You have a bit of your heart in the program already. This will give you a more full skillset that you'll be able to use immediately at the centre that you are working at. You'll be able to see changes in the work that you do every day. It affects the children around you and it will improve your quality of work. It's going to really open your eyes to different things that you can do, and other methods you can use that will improve what you're doing.
Futsal is a variation of indoor soccer played five on five, between the basketball lines, substitute on the fly (like hockey). The teams are composed mostly from the fall soccer rosters and compete in tournament style play in the Manitoba Colleges Athletic Conference (MCAC). The men’s team beat out the Providence University Pilots with 7-3 and 5-1 victories to secure their spot in the MCAC playoffs. The team lost in the semi finals to the Brandon University Bobcats, who eventually took the MCAC title. Despite notching a few goals here and there, the women’s team weren’t able to claim a win and didn’t qualify for playoffs.
The Cougars women’s volleyball team started as the underdogs in the league but ended the first term with a 3-1 (28-30, 25-15, 25-20, 25-15) win against the Canadian Mennonite University Blazers. This bolstered some confidence in the team, and they were able to take at least one win off each opponent in the league. At the end of regular season, the team sits 6-12 heading into playoffs. They faced the top-ranked Universite de St. Boniface Les Rouges in the Manitoba Colleges Athletic Conference finals February 25th, held at St. Boniface. The new year brought adversity on the men’s side as they have been navigating a new lineup and nursing some injuries. The team sits 5-13 heading into playoffs and will face the Providence University Pilots in the single elimination tournament for the championship.
The Cougars women’s hockey team headed into the 2023 American Collegiate Hockey Association Division II season with high expectations. After winning their first ACHA Championship in 2019, an undefeated season in 2020 (the Championship was cancelled due to COVID-19) and a cancellation in 2021, the Cougars successfully defended their title in 2022. With a strong core of veteran players returning in 2023 and an ensemble of up-and-coming rookies, the Cougars set early goals to return to the National final for the coveted three-peat.
Over the course of the season, the team sat 23-2-1-0 with one loss to the #2 ranked team in the West, our south-of-the-border neighbours, Dakota College at Bottineau LadyJacks and a pair of losses to fellow Canadians, the Sault College Cougars—the top ranked team in the central division.
Captain Simone Turner lead the league in scoring in her senior season, notching 37 goals and 34 assists for 71 points in just 24 games. The goaltenders split the load fairly evenly throughout the season; Geneva Penner had 5 shutouts in 12 games and Megan Beswitherick posted 7 shutouts in 14 games.
“Collegiate athletics are an important part of college life for many student athletes, and we were thrilled to once again see our women's hockey program excel in their craft” said Lindsay McLaughlin, Cougars Athletics Manager.
"These athletes are a prime example of commitment and dedication, setting a positive tone for athletic excellence across the college. We're excited to rally the whole college behind them as they prepare to defend their title,” she said, ahead
of the American Collegiate Hockey Association’s (ACHA) Women’s Division II (W2) Championship tournament held March 16 - 20 just outside of Boston, Massachusetts.
With 16 top-ranked W2 teams competing, defending their two-time championship title wasn't going to be an easy feat.
They entered the tournament as the top-ranked team in the West Region at the end of regular conference play. After a strong round-robin, the Cougars came up against a hometown team on a roll, ultimately losing the semi-final in a highly competitive double-overtime battle.
“I was excited about the competitive environment Nationals brings. Having had the opportunity to attend the tournament last season in St. Louis, I had a clear idea of what we were up against,” said Geneva Penner, Cougars goalie. “Tournament games were filled with pure intensity and the best competition! It was one of the best experiences I’ve had in my hockey career.”
Although it was not the final result the team had hoped for, the college and community is extremely proud of this year’s hockey program for representing the Cougars on a national stage. With many of the athletes graduating from the team after this season, we’re looking forward to continuing the momentum our team has built, and developing our newly signed athletes under the guidance of strong rookies like Emmalie Thompson and Madison Haliuk.
March 16th VS Michigan State University (W 10-0)
March 17th VS University of Vermont (W 5-0)
March 18th VS Adrian College (W 7-0)
March 19th VS Semi-Finals: Northeastern University (L 1-2)
Want to learn more about Cougars Athletics or find out where the teams play next?
Assiniboine celebrated the grand opening of the Centre for Creative Media with staff, students, alumni and community leaders earlier this year.
While renovations were completed in early 2022, the college marked the opening of the space with an event that welcomed community members, industry partners, project donors, alumni, students and staff.
“We are thrilled to showcase this new innovative space alongside our community and industry partners,” said Mark Frison, President at Assiniboine. “It’s an important space for the college and a big step in our continued growth. We are grateful to the many generous contributors to this project and the ongoing support we have received to continue to provide exceptional learning experiences for students.”
The Centre for Creative Media, located at the Victoria Avenue East campus in Brandon, is a 10,050 sq. ft. multi-functional space that includes a classroom for students working on post-production alongside a dedicated screening area with a high-end projector and sound system.
“Assiniboine’s Centre for Creative Media will have a unique and positive impact on Manitoba’s vibrant digital media industry,” said the Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister for PrairiesCan. “The Centre will create opportunities for students to connect with professionals and develop industry-relevant skills as they prepare to enter the workforce. Through this federal investment, we are supporting new partnerships between industry and academia made possible by the Centre for Creative Media.”
Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) leads in building a strong, competitive Canadian economy by supporting innovation and economic development. Their $2.2 million in funding for the Centre for Creative Media demonstrates this commitment.
“A dedicated creative space allows students to train on some of the most up-todate technology in the industry,” said Jana Sproule, Chairperson of Media and Office Technology at Assiniboine. “It will provide students with the necessary skills and confidence to succeed in a fast-paced and evolving industry.”
In fall 2021, the college launched three new programs – Media & Communications, Digital Art & Design and Web & Interactive Development. These programs are the primary users of the new Centre and can welcome up to 60 students each year.
“Getting the chance to work and learn in the new state-of-the-art Centre for Creative Media space has been an amazing and fun experience,” said Nicole Wruth, Media & Communications student at Assiniboine. “It makes you feel like you are a part of something bigger, dreaming bigger and working harder. It feels like the real deal, and most importantly, your creativity isn’t limited when you have great equipment and studio space at your fingertips. Your environment is everything.”
A mature student's journey from high school diploma to Automotive Instructor at Assiniboine.
At 16, Pike dropped out of high school to relish in his adolescent years. A few short years later, he found himself at a crossroads, with no clear career path but a desire for a fresh start.
“One day it dawned on me that I couldn’t do what I was doing forever because it wasn’t like I had a professional career coming,” said Pike. “You realize you have to grow up and overcome the hurdle to return to high school, and if you don’t do it at a certain time, you may never get the opportunity again.”
Pike moved to Brandon in 2009 to live with his mother and attend the Centre for Adult Learning (CAL), formerly known as the Adult Collegiate, to complete his grades 11 and 12.
Not only did he achieve academic success –graduating with honours in 2010 – but his leadership skills set him apart, and his peers nominated him to be the valedictorian.
He knew many people felt the odds of success were against him, given that he had left high school before graduating.
“That was a big moment for me. I always look back at that as a special time and the opportunity to prove that I wasn’t that same person everyone thought I was,” said Pike. “It felt good to lead the class.”
After receiving his high school diploma, Pike realized he didn't want to continue his current job as a cook. He spoke with a success advisor from the Adult Collegiate to discover his career options. When the advisor asked, “What do you want to do?” he unknowingly responded with a situation he encountered the day before – an annoyance with a
$1,200 charge from the mechanic to fix his car.
“I told her I don’t want to pay anyone to fix my car ever again,” said Pike.
His transition from the Adult Collegiate to the Automotive Technician program qualified him for a bridging award, which helped give him the tools he needed to succeed in the classroom.
“I was able to purchase a computer for school. It also helped lessen the financial stress and allowed me to focus on my studies.”
He also received the Manitoba Motor Dealers Association Scholarship for $1,000.
During both of his stints at Assiniboine, Pike was a member of the ACC Student Association (ACCSA), serving as the Vice President of Academics, and was instrumental in establishing the ACCSA at the North Hill Campus.
“I wanted to continue my leadership experience and be a voice for students,” said Pike.
He graduated with honours from the Automotive Technician program in June 2011 and transitioned to his first job at Integra Tire in Souris.
After a few years in the industry working in smaller automotive shops, he decided to transition to a larger shop, Kelleher Ford, to advance his certification and pursue the Apprenticeship program.
In April 2016, he earned his Automotive Technician Red Seal.
His thirst for knowledge continued, attending more than 15 factory training courses and nearly 200 online courses.
Pike spent the next 13 years in the automotive industry, working his way up from automotive technician to shop foreman. He was reputable for working on imported vehicles through his experience at Fowler Nissan.
As a single father, Pike decided to step away from his job at the beginning of the pandemic to support his young daughter, Rachel, while she was remotely learning.
Once he decided to return to the workforce, Pike felt it was time for a change.
“I’ve always been very driven, so when I heard of the instructor opportunity at Assiniboine, I felt it was the next step in my career,” said Pike.
Pike started his position as an instructor in the Automotive Technician program in September 2020.
“For me, it’s not just about teaching students how to fix cars,” said Pike. “I teach them the skills they’ll need to succeed in the industry.”
A clean and organized mechanic makes more money, he added.
Despite facing numerous hurdles, Pike's determination, commitment, and trust in himself enabled him to overcome many obstacles to get where he is today.
“There are probably hundreds of people I grew up with that were really shocked when my education and career fell into place as it did,” said Pike. “I don’t think anyone saw me achieving this.”
Every year on Pike’s birthday, his mother reminds him of how far he’s come.
“I’d like to say that I am one of the lucky ones, but that would be a false statement. Nothing was handed to me. I pushed myself and proved my commitment and tenacity for everything I have achieved.”
Pike encourages those returning to school as adult learners to be proud and celebrate all successes – big or small.
“We need to push ourselves to find that inner strength and energy to strive for a better mark or top the mark we received the first time. Remind yourself to schedule time for that utterly important assignment you don’t want to dobecause it’s important. Learn to control your choices and priorities to reach that upper limit you may not have known you could.”
As a mature student, one thing that many people have difficulty understanding is that you will need to clap for yourself. You may not have a cheerleader shouting your name from the sidelines or a loving support system encouraging you to reach for your best.”
The Weston Family Soil Health Initiative, which seeks to expand the adoption of ecologically based beneficial management practices (BMPs) that increase soil organic matter to improve biodiversity and resiliency on agricultural lands across Canada, granted Assiniboine Community College $1,680,827 for a five-year project to enhance soil ecosystems in Western Canadian agriculture.
The project, which is also supported by Farm Management Canada, the Manitoba Forage and Grasslands Association, and the Manitoba Association of Watersheds, will use education and outreach to develop a Net Positive Network to build healthier soil ecosystems in Western Canada. The project will work with innovative Western Canadian farmers, like David Rourke of Rourke Farms, to demonstrate ways to improve biodiversity and tackle climate change by adopting practices that lead to improved soil health.
“Soil is foundational to long-term viable agriculture and food production, and healthy soil can help
mitigate climate change. This project will bring together like-minded producers to implement practices that will shape the way we farm and produce food,” said Tim Hore, Dean, Russ Edwards School of Agriculture and Environment. “We thank the Weston Family Foundation for making this project possible. Together we can engage with producers to develop communities of practice that promote regional and economically viable BMPs through farmer extension and post-secondary education.”
By 2050, the global population is projected to reach 10 billion people and global food demand is predicted to increase by 56%. Assiniboine's project will dig into the practical and pragmatic ways that producers have improved upon and continue to advance soil health and climate conscious practices, and will accelerate the development and implementation of those practices to ensure a sustainable future.
“It is clear, through the high-quality applications we
received, that soil health is of growing importance in the agriculture sector and that there are scientifically proven yet underutilized approaches to increasing soil organic matter on Canada’s farmlands,” says Emma Adamo, Chair, Weston Family Foundation. “Our Foundation is committed to supporting landscape-level efforts to find solutions to our environmental challenges and, ultimately, improve the well-being of Canadians.”
“Farmers continue to make progress in preserving and nurturing soil health and yet still have many uniquely regional, technical and economic obstacles to overcome,” said Brent VanKoughnet, project lead. “This project will support and elevate the ingenuity of farmers to accelerate the development and adoption of increasingly more targeted and effective beneficial management practices.”
This project aligns with Assiniboine’s agriculture and environment applied research strategy by responding to sector challenges and industry needs through partner-driven collaboration.
Assiniboine receives $1.7M from Weston Family Foundation for education and outreach to build healthier soil ecosystems.
Near the end of 2022, Assiniboine celebrated a donation of $125,000 to support the Prairie Innovation Centre for Sustainable Agriculture from Redfern Farm Services. The contribution commemorated a notable milestone of 50 years in business and longstanding commitments to the college and the community.
Ray Redfern, owner of Redfern Farm Services Ltd. has contributed to the college in many ways over the years, with both time and financial contributions. Ray has been on program advisory committees, funded capstone projects for Agribusiness students, is a longtime employer of Assiniboine graduates and currently sits on the Prairie Innovation Centre campaign cabinet.
“Assiniboine produces graduates with a passion for ag, with curiosity and the ability to use information and technology,” said Redfern. “We are just now celebrating 50 years and are celebrating with Assiniboine as our valued partner. Our recent contribution is our thanks and is an investment in the future of agriculture at Assiniboine, as well as in our communities, and for Redferns.”
“From our very early days, we have had team members from Assiniboine, from agriculture and other programs. This is still the case today and we are better for these relationships,” said Redfern. The Prairie Innovation Centre, to be located at the college’s North Hill campus, will bring together collaborative learning spaces, applied research labs, multipurpose spaces and amenities that will serve both the industry and the college community. By creating an enhanced agricultural training capacity, the Centre will enable the agriculture sector to continue to be an economic driver in the Canadian and Manitoban economies.
“Assiniboine is grateful for the support from Ray—both for his historical involvement with the college and now this generous financial contribution,” said Derrick Turner, Director, Advancement & External Relations at Assiniboine. “This donation brings us another step closer to bringing this project to life, and serves as another marker to indicate that our local industry partners believe in this project and what it will bring to the agriculture sector here in Manitoba.”
Keep up with all announced Prairie Innovation Centre donors at assiniboine.net/PIC-donors
Assiniboine presented Dori GingeraBeauchemin with an honorary diploma in Agribusiness at the college’s Ag Partnership Breakfast held during Manitoba Ag Days in January.
Gingera-Beauchemin is well-known for her career contributions to the agriculture industry—most notably in her role as the Deputy Minister of Agriculture. She retired as Deputy Minister in early January after a 43-year career in agriculture.
“Ms. Gingera Beauchemin’s contributions to agriculture at provincial and national levels over the course of her career have been tremendous,” said Assiniboine President, Mark Frison. “Dori has been a leader in the sector for decades. Her ability and tenacity to forge connections, inspire collaboration and advocate for the agriculture community have continued to move the agriculture industry forward. I am proud to have worked with her closely through the years—she is a most deserving recipient of this recognition.”
Gingera-Beauchemin graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture from the University of Manitoba in 1979. She joined Manitoba Agriculture after graduation, holding positions throughout her career including 4-H and Youth Specialist, Chief of the 4-H Program, Director of the Central Region, Director of the Marketing & Farm Business Management Branch, Assistant Deputy Minister of Agri-Food and Rural Development Division, and Assistant Deputy Minister of Policy and AgriEnvironment Division.
She was first introduced to 4-H as a child in McCreary, MB alongside her three sisters and her mother, who was a 4-H leader. Remaining close
to the 4-H community, Gingera-Beauchemin continued serving on various committees throughout her career, strengthening the foundations of the organization in Manitoba, Canada and internationally through her many volunteer roles. In 2007, she was elected as President for the Canadian 4-H Foundation. Gingera-Beauchemin was instrumental in raising the profile of 4-H and securing funds to aid the Manitoba 4-H Council Programming.
“I am thrilled to receive an honorary diploma from Assiniboine Community College,” said Gingera-Beauchemin. “During my many years with Manitoba Agriculture, Assiniboine was an excellent partner in our efforts to ensure Manitoba’s agriculture and food industries have the talent pool required to support the industry’s ambitious plans. I am confident Assiniboine will continue to innovate to meet the needs of our dynamic agriculture and protein sectors and look forward to seeing the fruits of their labour.”
Gingera-Beachuemin has received a number of awards owing to her commitment to leadership in the agricultural industry, including an Honourary Lifetime Member of Canadian 4-H Council and the Foreign Minister’s Commendation from the Japan Counsul-General for her involvement in creating the Canada-Japan 4-H international student exchange program, which has been in place for 35 years.
“Dori and her colleagues were committed to advancing the sustainable development of Manitoba’s agricultural and food sector while supporting vibrant rural communities. The many programs and services offered by the department
in support of farm and rural families, industry and communities aim at achieving a high quality of life through prosperous entrepreneurs and enterprises,” said Mona Cornock, a member of the Assiniboine Board of Governors.
Gingera-Beauchemin remains active in the agriculture and farming community, residing and operating the Beauchemin family farm in southern Manitoba with her husband.
Assiniboine awards honorary diplomas to individuals who demonstrate high standards of excellence in their personal and professional achievements and whose involvement in the community is widely recognized.
Brandon and surrounding area was a-buzz with an energy that the community had not seen in years, as Manitoba Ag Days returned in January, 2023. Opening the week with an announcement to advance the sector, Premier Heather Stefanson announced $10 million for Assiniboine Community College’s Prairie Innovation Centre for Sustainable Agriculture.
“This investment represents a significant step forward for Assiniboine Community College to help support new programs for labour market development, applied research and industry engagement in the agriculture, environment and processing sectors,” said Mark Frison, President of Assiniboine. “We have seen great enthusiasm from the community, industry and donors for the project. It’s great to see the Manitoba government respond in such a significant way by providing $10 million to assist the college in moving its project forward to the next stage of development.”
Manitoba Ag Days was a fitting location for such a momentous announcement, both because of the obvious connection between the event and the facility-to-be, and because the level of activity seen in Brandon and Western Manitoba throughout the week was indicative of the engagement this area has with the agriculture sector: they love it, they live it, and based on the industry support Assiniboine has seen for the Prairie Innovation Centre, they are invested in seeing this Centre brought to life.
“We know we have a strong community who are passionate about what agriculture brings to this province and country. These business, community and industry leaders have shown up in a big way since we launched this campaign in 2019,” said Frison.
Assiniboine has raised more than $16.7 million in private industry support toward the Prairie Innovation Centre.
By 2029, one in three jobs in agriculture are expected to go unfilled. The Prairie Innovation Centre is one of the pieces to the puzzle in maintaining a strong agriculture and processing sector in Manitoba and Canada.
“Responding to labour market needs is essential to our mission, and this Centre and the proposed expansion of agriculture-related programs in the Russ Edwards School of Agriculture and Environment will ensure there are trained individuals ready to step into highdemand jobs in this important sector,” said Frison.
The Prairie Innovation Centre, which will be located on the college’s North Hill campus in Brandon, will allow the college to continue expanding capacity in agriculture-related programming from 300 to more than 800 students annually. By creating enhanced and expanded agricultural training capacity, the Centre will enable the agriculture sector to reach its full potential in the Canadian and Manitoban economy.
“We’re building momentum and this remarkable investment from the province is a signal that this project is needed.
I want to sincerely thank the Premier and the Province of Manitoba for this investment, as well as the industry and community members who have supported this project. We look forward to continuing our work together.”
Deputy Premier, Cliff Cullen, Tim Hore (Dean, Russ Edwards School of Agriculture and Environment), Premier Heather Stefanson, Mark Frison (President, Assiniboine) at the announcement.I want to commend ACC and their leadership for spearheading this project, along with their donors and community members who are keen to see this centre come to life which will provide innovative programming and support the growth of the local community and economy.”
Premier Heather Stefanson
We started the week with our annual Ag Partnership Breakfast, sponsored by Sunrise Credit Union. Later in the week, we connected with our Ag Alumni at our mixer event. We hope everyone enjoyed connecting, and catching up.
City of Brandon Mayor, Jeff Fawcett, at the Manitoba Ag Days dignitaries address.
Over the next five years, EMILI and ACC will collaborate on projects that advance the adoption of intelligent technologies and provide Manitobans with in-demand digital agriculture skills. Examples include collaborating on the development of data literacy training programs, increasing workintegrated learning opportunities, testing new technologies to ensure they work on a full-scale farm, and sharing Innovation Farms data with students to inform the projects they are working on.
“EMILI and ACC share a common vision of growing Manitoba’s digital agriculture sector through innovation and education, and I’m excited to see the impact we will have by working toward solutions together,” said EMILI Managing Director Jacqueline Keena.
Technology is advancing at a rapid pace and will require people with new and evolving skills and work experiences. At the same time, climate change is presenting new challenges and an aging workforce is putting pressure on one of the cornerstone industries of our economy. Canada’s agricultural sector could be facing a shortage of 123,000 workers by 2030 - that’s one in three jobs that could go unfilled.
“It will take a big investment in innovation and a new generation of skills to meet the demands being placed on the sector,” said Keena. “The initiatives EMILI and ACC are undertaking will accelerate Manitoba’s growth as a leader in digital agriculture, with benefits that stretch Canada-wide.”
The Digital Agriculture Strategic Roadmap which EMILI co-released with MI-AP in Fall 2022, highlights that the future of digital agriculture requires increased education and experiential learning opportunities to develop
vital competencies around technology application, employee readiness, and human skills.
In recent years, EMILI and ACC have been working hard to realize the potential of digital agriculture in the prairies. According to RBC’s 2019 report, with the right mix of skills, capital, and technology, agriculture could add $11 billion to Canada’s GDP by 2030.
In 2022, EMILI launched Innovation Farms Powered by AgExpert, providing industry and academics access to leading-edge equipment, technology, and production practices on a 5,500-acre full-scale commercial seed farm near Winnipeg.
EMILI is also building the Canadian Agri-Food Data Initiative to drive collaboration and coordination on data governance across the whole of the Canadian agri-food sector. The ongoing work of the Data Initiative includes proof of concept technology demonstration, applied research, and knowledge
translation through robust data literacy training programs.
Meanwhile, ACC is in the process of building The Prairie Innovation Centre for Sustainable Agriculture in Brandon, a collaborative learning space that promises to expand agriculture-related programming from 300 to more than 800 students annually, and further expanding the capacity for applied research, extension programs and industry engagement. This initiative was celebrated during Manitoba Ag Days when the provincial government announced a $10 million investment in the Centre.
“ACC is excited to collaborate with EMILI on vital applied research, education and training, and extension programs to advance agricultural technology. Data is key to the future of Canadian ag, and the RBC Farmer 4.0 Report has said that the advanced technologies emerging across agriculture and sub-sectors will change the skills needed over the next decade to be successful in the sector,” said Tim Hore, Dean of ACC’s Russ Edwards School of Agriculture and Environment.
“This partnership will help provide experiential learning opportunities for students using emerging technologies, and will help ensure that graduates obtain skills in areas like data analysis, robotics and automation. This partnership and the expanded programming proposed as part of our Prairie Innovation Centre will help fill this need.”
EMILI and ACC’s combined resources, most notably Innovation Farms Powered by AgExpert and ACC’s Prairie Innovation Centre for Sustainable Agriculture, will provide people with the skills and training required to succeed in a digital agriculture economy.
Working together to increase digital skills to address labour shortages within the Canadian agriculture sector is central to a recent Memorandum of Understanding between The Enterprise Machine Intelligence Learning Initiative (EMILI) and Assiniboine Community College.
My name is Karen, and I am the Academic Chair for MICA/Field to Fork in the Russ Edwards School of Agriculture & Environment. I was born and raised in Jamaica, and immigrated to Canada 10 years ago with my husband and our young family. Through a partnership between the Canadian and Jamaican governments to bring skilled workers to Canada, we landed in Thompson, Manitoba as my husband, a Red Seal chef, accepted a position through the partnership. It was a huge shift adjusting to the vastly different climate in Thompson, but we couldn’t have received a warmer welcome from the people in the community.
I have been an educator for my entire career. I started in Food Service Management and worked my way through various roles in the Culinary Arts field. The hours weren’t conducive to having a young family and spending time together, so I decided to broaden my scope of knowledge through education. My love for culinary arts and education came together as I completed a certificate in General Catering, then went on to get my Bachelor’s Degree in Education and Food Service Management, a match made in heaven. My first teaching job was in Culinary Arts, Baking and Hotel and Tourism Management at the most prestigious Trades Institute in Jamaica, the NCTVET Institute. While in Jamaica, I wrote curriculums, developed programs, and taught culinary arts in high school. My husband and I owned and managed a catering business while juggling school and family.
Upon arriving in Canada, I challenged the Red Seal exam, received my teaching license in Manitoba and Ontario, and graduated from the University of Manitoba with a Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Education. I am currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Educational Administration at Brandon University. In Thompson, I taught Junior High and later moved into a Principalship role.
Being an educator in a Northern community where the curriculum was Indigenized helped enhance student learning experiences. Jamaica was also colonized, and that similarity really helped me to be able to relate to the students. The school district focuses on highlighting the Truth and Reconciliation journey. Being able to learn and experience aspects of the Indigenous culture has been a wonderful experience.
During Black History Month in my first few years in Thompson, I recognized there hadn’t been much planned for events. I observed, and through conversation, I learned that it wasn’t so much that teachers didn’t want to speak about Black History Month but that they didn’t feel equipped or qualified to teach on the subject and answer the hard questions regarding the atrocities of our past. I am a positive person, and while there is much darkness in the history of black people, there is also a lot of good. It’s all about balance, and I am always teaching that while there were, and continue to be, inequities, there have been major discoveries, leaders who have forced change, and scientific breakthroughs made by some incredible black people. Those are the stories we need to focus on. It is important to acknowledge the
While there is much darkness in the history of black people, there is also a lot of good. It’s all about balance, and I am always teaching that while there were, and continue to be, inequities, there have been major discoveries, leaders who have forced change, and scientific breakthroughs made by some incredible black people. Those are the stories we need to focus on."
past and speak your truth, but while doing that, also look to the future because that’s where we can make positive change.
Being part of the change process, led me to partner with teachers to co- teach on Black History. I had the privilege of speaking to our students from the lens of a Black Canadian. It is imperative that we recognize that the world is big and diverse. Change and acceptance happens when we have an opportunity to learn and see things with different lenses. When people can look beyond ethnicity and see you!
When the Black Lives Matter movement started, I had an opportunity to speak at our local event in Thompson, and though unplanned, I seized the chance to share. When I looked out at that crowd, I saw a diverse group of many skin colours and ethnicities standing in support of the matter at hand. What started as a skin colour issue became a human rights issue that truly affects everyone, and it showed me that you could find allies in all groups wherever you go. History has shown this has always been the case.
Being Jamaican Canadian is a unique experience. I have the ability to be still authentic Jamaican and authentic Canadian. I do not have to choose. Our Jamaican Patois dialect is very important to me, and I’m doing my best to keep my culture and speak my language, especially for my kids, who left Jamaica very young.
It is a welcoming place to integrate into wider Canadian cultures, and I am always noticing that while we’re not all from the same place, we’re all human and relate in some way. Conversation with the people of Canada has given me the opportunity to widen my scope, learn, and also educate. I also find many similarities between the Canadian and Jamaican cultures. For example, a part of Jamaica’s National dish is salted cod. Jamaica started getting their codfish from Newfoundland! We traded the fish for rum, and the fish was packed in salt for transportation.
I’m inspired by Rosa Parks; she’s my girl! The odds that she went up against as a young, Black woman, when it would have been nothing for her to lose her life by standing up to the white people of that time, is truly inspiring. This was not the norm, nobody had done this, but nothing stopped her from dreaming that this could change. She knew that change was fair and stood up as a minority without support for change. She inspired hope and courage in the others who joined her. I want people to know that everyone, even minorities, has a voice and can affect change. Rosa Parks didn’t need a crowd behind her to do what was right. She had a dream that equality, respect & equity were possible. As I happily integrate into the Assiniboine Community College family, where the education of our diverse future leaders is paramount. It makes me contemplate what I can do to affect positive change; What have I done?
For more stories, visit assiniboine.net/spotlight.
In February, Assiniboine announced that proceeds from Assiniboine Community College’s Foundation Legacy Gala Dinner, that occurred on March 23, would support financial awards for Black students. This fundraising event is held annually at the college’s Manitoba Institute of Culinary Arts, with the proceeds going to a different dedicated purpose each year.
“The Legacy Gala is our largest fundraising event each year, where guests have the opportunity to experience a remarkable evening while supporting a worthy endeavour,” said Heather Dodds, Assiniboine Foundation Board President. “It’s a pleasure to be involved in this event, and I want to thank our supporters and guests in advance for supporting the future of Black Canadians at Assiniboine.”
“Assiniboine recognizes the importance of Black History Month, the legacy and future of Black Canadians. This fund and the financial awards it will provide is one step toward supporting Black students,” said Mark Frison, President at Assiniboine. “I want to thank the Assiniboine Foundation for supporting this fund and the future of Black Canadians.”
There was a more than 57 percent growth in the Black population in Manitoba from 2015 to 2019, with a 132 per cent growth in Southwest Manitoba and 97 per cent growth in Brandon during that time.
The Foundation Legacy Gala Dinner features a multi-course menu with wine pairings at each course. Culinary Arts, Baking Foundations and Hotel and Restaurant Management students work together to make this an unforgettable event.
“We are incredibly proud of the work our students do to contribute to such a wonderful evening that ultimately supports fellow and future students,” said Karen O’Gilvie, Academic Chair of Assiniboine’s Field to Fork programs, which includes the programs responsible for hosting this event. “This is my first Legacy Gala at Assiniboine, and as a Black educator and Red Seal Chef, this event brings together a few different areas that are meaningful to me.”
In recent years the Legacy Gala has given proceeds to financial support for Mature Student High School students (2017), Indigenous students (2018), Early Childhood Education students (2019), emergency student needs in light of the COVID-19 pandemic (2020) and students in healthcare programs (2022).
Assiniboine rounded out the celebration of all current rural rotating Practical Nursing training sites in early 2023 as the City of Morden and Town of Arborg welcomed Assiniboine to their communities. Both events welcomed nursing students and staff, Minister’s, MLA’s and partners from the communities and local health authorities.
“Assiniboine’s expansion of its Practical Nursing program in both permanent and rural rotating sites will allow more students to become certified in this high-demand healthcare occupation,” said Advanced Education and Training Minister Sarah Guillemard. “Being able to attend training closer to home increases participation rates for rural students, which aligns with our government’s Skills, Training and Knowledge Strategy, and also supports our commitment to add 400 new nursing seats to meet Manitoba’s health sector needs.”
A siginificant investment in 2021 expanded Assiniboine's Portage la Prairie nursing site to welcome 35 new students each year along with three additional rural rotating sites.
In March, Assiniboine announced that the college would host a Practical Nursing intake in Neepawa, Manitoba, starting in January 2024 with space for 25 students.
“Nursing is our single largest program and our rural sites provide opportunities to learners close to home. Providing access to training across the province to meet provincial and regional needs is central to our mission,” said Mark Frison, President of Assiniboine. “Neepawa is a growing community with growing needs in healthcare. We look forward to working with the community, province and health region to help to meet that need.”
Applications are currently open and will be assessed on an ongoing basis, with those living within 100 km of Neepawa and/or within the Prairie Mountain Health region given priority.
Rural rotating sites for the 2024-25 academic year that have been announced to date are Virden (September 2024), Otterburne (September 2024) and Morden (January 2025). One site has yet to be announced.
To learn more about the program and all of the communities it's offered in, visit assiniboine.net/nursing
Photos (top down):
Nursing students in Arborg, Minister of Agriculture and MLA for Interlake Gimil, Derek Johnson; Morden nursing students with Mayor Brandon Burley; Assiniboine President Mark Frison.
referred her into the Food Processing course at ACC.
best life possible. Jasmin is his first family member to join him in Brandon and he’s hoping to bring his wife and kids over soon.
Assiniboine opened its Food Processing Centre for Animal Proteins in Brandon in January 2020. The centre was co-funded by various organizations, including the federal government, the province of Manitoba, Manitoba Pork, Maple Leaf, HyLife, UFCW Local 832, and Brandon Hog & Livestock Show. Its primary goal is to provide students with the necessary training and experience to start their careers in the meat processing industry.
To help address financial barriers for international students hoping to enroll in the program, UFCW 832, Maple Leaf and the college partnered to create a scholarship for family members of current Maple Leaf employees. Grace and Jasmin are the first recipients to arrive, and more are on their way. Grace grew up in rural Philippines, coming from a family of hog farmers and butchers, and Jasmin grew up in the capital city of the Phillippines, Manila.
Grace taught English in Thailand before moving back to the Philippines to teach in her community. She decided that Clarinda’s referral for the scholarship was a good opportunity and came here to Canada.
Clarinda started working at Maple Leaf in 2015, and hadn’t seen Grace in over eight years. Grace was a young teen the last time they saw each other and now she is a young adult who spends her spare time cooking, often for the both of them.
Grace’s background in education has led her to become like a big sister and a help to her teacher in the classroom. She often checks in with her classmates and helps them absorb all the information.
Jasmin was referred into the same program by her brother Jerome, who works on the cut side at Maple Leaf. She studied medical biology in Manila and is hoping to put those skills to work while she’s in school at ACC. Eventually, she’s hoping to work at Maple Leaf as a quality inspector.
When the Animal Proteins scholarship came up, Jasmin had just graduated from school. This is her first time leaving home. Upon arriving in Canada, she planned to try all of our winter activities and hoped to be active outside as much as possible.
Both Grace and Jasmin are enjoying what they’ve seen in Canada so far. Even the layering up of clothing required in winter. This winter, their class went for hayride to Shilo and they really enjoyed it.
Back home in the Philippines, Grace and Jasmin didn’t know each other and led very different lives, but when they met each other in class at ACC, they became fast friends.
Both Grace and Jasmin are eager to finish school and are hopeful that they get to start their new careers at Maple Leaf.
A team of five students from Assiniboine Community College’s School of Business competed for a third time in the Royal Roads Design Thinking Challenge February 15th to 18th
The challenge put in front of teams was ‘how might non-profit clothing thrift stores become places that further bolster inclusivity and community?’ The Challenge aimed to test students’ problem-solving skills as they work with civic leaders to address real-world challenges and help create positive changes in the community.
Students John Olson, Brittany Blair, Ariel Cummer, Josh Hardy and Elizabeth Taylor worked together under the guidance of lead coach, Leanne Zamrykut. The Assiniboine team was the only team from Manitoba to compete in this year’s competition.
The team did extensive research with observations, focus groups and surveys in preparation for the challenge. The group presented the research along with their proposed solutions to a panel of judges who provided feedback on each round they completed.
“The Challenge was eye opening for me and challenged my way of thinking. Typically, when companies, businesses and other entities require support to attain attention and growth in their communities, I almost always immediately think social media is the answer. However, this Challenge helped me understand that there will be times and places that don’t require social media and money to be at the forefront of the conversation,” said Josh Hardy, a second year Business Administration student in the Marketing specialization.
Four college and university teams from across Canada, one team from the USA and one from Europe participated across three rounds and were expected to leverage design thinking methods to develop a solution.
"This was a great opportunity for students to learn about the design thinking process and practice. The challenge takes the skills and knowledge they’ve been developing in class and applies it to a real-world application,” said Leanne Zamrykut. “The students worked very hard, and was fun to watch them work through the live competition.”
Assiniboine Community College is celebrating its 10th year funding tuition for current and former youth in Child and Family Services care as part of the Tuition Waiver program.
“Assiniboine is proud of our long-standing commitment to support youth-in-care. We believe that access to post-secondary education is the key to creating brighter futures, and this program has made education and training a possibility for many students,” said Mark Frison, President at Assiniboine. “As we mark the 10th anniversary of this program, we look forward to the many more lives we hope to play a part in transforming as we move into the next 10.”
Assiniboine has provided support to more than 75 Tuition Waiver recipients since 2013.
To be eligible for the Tuition Waiver program, applicants must be current or former youth-in-care in Manitoba, meet regular program admission requirements, and have applied to Assiniboine for a full-time program. The college has no limit on the number of Tuition Waivers it will provide in a single academic year.
Assiniboine funds the Tuition Waivers and works with Futures Forward, which provides program and application assistance.
“Futures Forward is grateful for Assiniboine Community College’s continued support of the Tuition Waiver program for current and former youth in care in Manitoba. Through offering Tuition Waivers, ACC has created accessible pathways for students from care to pursue post-secondary goals which they may have not otherwise thought possible,” said Evan Forest, Outreach Coordinator at Futures Forward. “In collaboration with ACC, Futures Forward connects students to exciting postsecondary opportunities while they continue to receive wraparound supports in employment, mental health, service navigation, and financial wellness. We look forward to continuing to work together to connect students to these life-changing bursaries."
On Friday, March 24th, toddlers and school-aged children were bused in from childcare centres and schools to participate in Cardboard Box Challenge Day, hosted by Assiniboine's Early Childhood Education (ECE) program.
ECE students guided kids as they explored the various shapes and sizes of cardboard, as well as the textures of paper and bubble wrap. Some kids sat in boxes, knocked boxes over and built towers out of them. The bustling gym appeared to be full of kids having a good time, but Rennais Gayle, Chairperson of ECE at Assiniboine at the time of the event, said the event was much more than that.
“It allows the young children to work with others. They are able to utilize their skills and put what they are thinking into creativity,” Gayle said. “But it’s also an opportunity for our students to put their skills to the test and work together as
part of a team to communicate well and effectively, to liaise with community partners, as well as to utilize their curriculum and course content that they have been learning about.”
The event provided valuable experience to students, especially first-year students who haven’t had much opportunity to put their studies into practice. Kassandra Harpelle, a first-year student in the ECE program at Assiniboine underlined the advantages of the event's activities, which go beyond being enjoyable for kids and practical assignments for ECE students.
“One of the biggest takeaways is that we’re promoting recycling,” she said. “We’re promoting using things in new and creative ways but leaving it very open-ended for the kids. so they’re reaching their fullest potential.”
Assiniboine is delivering an Early Childhood Education (ECE) Workplace program in two new locations – Dauphin and Virden. The diploma program started in January 2023 and is intended for those who are currently employed by a childcare centre and have a minimum of two years of experience in the field.
The program allows students to remain working at the centre they’re currently employed with, attending classes two days a week.
Students who complete the program will receive a diploma in Early Childhood Education, which will allow them to apply for their ECE Level 2 classification.
“Trained and certified workers in this profession are in high demand. This new program assists in meeting these demands with individuals who have previously invested time in learning about this profession,” said Rennais Gayle, former Chairperson of Early Childhood Education at Assiniboine.
The Early Childhood Education Workplace program is offered every two years, rotating throughout the province.
For more information on our ECE programming, visit assiniboine.net/ece.
The biggest thing is also for us to learn how to build relationships with the communities, with the centres and also provide an opportunity for [kids] to learn through something as simple as cardboard,”
Kassandra Harpelle, a first-year student in the ECE program at Assiniboine.
The college was elated to be able to celebrate our financial award recipients and donors at a new event, the #HumbleBrag Student Award Recipient Celebration. At the event, Assiniboine announced $612,550 in financial awards for the 2022-23 academic year.
“These students have worked very hard to advance their education and we feel they deserve to be recognized. That’s what inspired our #HumbleBrag student celebration event, the desire to shine a spotlight on these students and thank the generous community of donors who have made these awards possible,” said Derrick Turner, Director, Advancement & External Relations at Assiniboine. “The goal of our fundraising is always to enhance the student experience. Whether it’s through learning
tools and facilities or student financial awards, our efforts are student-focused.”
This sum will help more than 350 students who are pursuing training at Assiniboine this year. Financial awards are given to students based on a variety of indicators, including financial need, academic performance, athletic participation and emergency needs.
Assiniboine has a strong community of supporters with a long history of giving to support student needs. Tundra Oil and Gas recently created a new student award for Indigenous learners, and sees the value in supporting students’ futures.
“Tundra is proud to support Assiniboine Community College students as they journey toward their
educational goals,” said Jane Mactaggart, President & CEO of Tundra Oil & Gas. “Recipients of the Tundra Oil & Gas Indigenous Award demonstrate leadership and community service, in addition to their academic performance. Assiniboine Community College plays an important role in helping build pathways for Indigenous learners and we’re honoured to participate in events like this that celebrate these students and their achievements.”
Assiniboine’s #HumbleBrag Student Award Recipient Celebration, held at the college’s Victoria Avenue East campus, heard first-hand from student award recipient Charlene Nault, a Social Service Worker student who received the Tundra Oil & Gas award this year.
I want to thank Tundra Oil & Gas for the generous scholarship that I received, as it has helped me to give back to other students. It is a huge benefit to not have to work through the school year and to be able to mentor others, be a student leader and gain so much valuable leadership experience. As a Métis student in her 40s, who had everything working against her to be here today, it is both a miracle and an honour, so I want to say thank you to everyone who has helped in the process of making that happen.”
I am a mother of three children. I am so happy to be able to obtain my certification toward being an Early Childhood Educator. The Olof Sigfusson McMahon Bertram Early Childhood Education bursary will help with the costs of my college education. I am very grateful to have been chosen for this award.
I am a first-year agribusiness student and athlete at Assiniboine Community College. I grew up on a small grain and beef livestock operation with my family. This award will greatly impact my post-secondary experience because it will alleviate the stress I have with expenses, and the cost of living. It is hard to only work for a few months of the year during summer as I’m unable to work during school with my full-time course load and hockey schedule.
I am currently in the Practical Nursing program at the Winnipeg campus, completing my 4th clinical rotation. This scholarship is such a blessing, it helps with the cost of commuting to Winnipeg from the rural community I live in with my husband. I truly believe that everyone should be able to access the best care and love using education as a means to improve my care for my patients.
I am currently enrolled in my 2nd year of the Agribusiness program at Assiniboine, and this scholarship has assisted me greatly in paying for my post-secondary education. I come from a farming background, one that mostly consists of purebred Angus cattle and a small grain operation. Throughout my college experience, I have worked for a nearby purebred cattle owner, staying true to my roots, and preparing cattle for shows. I have also been working on expanding my own personal herd of purebred Angus cattle.
When I am finished with my course, I plan to work at Precision Ag, a crop input facility, then travel to Australia to prepare show cattle for friends and business partners. This scholarship has been very helpful to get me through school and to prepare me financially for my future plans of work and travel.
I am currently enrolled in my second year in the Social Service Worker program. After I graduate, I hope to work towards a Bachelor of Social Work, along with a Master’s in social work. I have always been passionate about social policy and social rights, so I hope to work closely with vulnerable communities to help them succeed. As an immigrant from Mexico, I’ve faced many barriers, and my family has struggled in finding proper resources, especially financial aid. This bursary means so much to me because it will allow me to continue my journey in helping others who have struggled just like my family.
The Brandon Regional Health Centre Auxiliary Bursary you provided will help me worry less about financial needs while going through nursing school at ACC. I am currently a straight-A student, so I intend to work hard to maintain that standard until I have successfully completed my education entirely. I hope to one day return the favor to a future nursing student as you have done for me.
Receiving this bursary will help me and my little family continue my education in the Business Administration Accounting Program. Coming from a First Nations community, my dream would be to one day work with my people, and fill the employment gap by providing administrative, accounting skills so community like my own don’t resort to hiring off reserve members, or thirdparty services. As a student with a disability and a single mother of infant twins, I am honoured to accept the Indigenous Bridging Bursary from Wawanesa Insurance. I will be able to develop further towards my goals as a future indigenous leader and a mentor to other indigenous single mothers.
AT MANITOBA AG DAYS
The Brandon Wheat Kings donned special jerseys on March 3, as Assiniboine Community College sponsored the game. As part of the college’s sponsorship, we welcomed staff, students, alumni and future students to join us at the game that night. At the second intermission, our Cougars hockey team took the ice alongside a group of the next generation of female hockey players.
Assiniboine Community College and S.E.L. Housing Inc., an RTM (ready to move) home builder, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance hands-on learning opportunities for students in the construction trades programs at Assiniboine— carpentry, electrical, and plumbing.
Over the duration of the programs, students will construct a single-family dwelling at the Len Evans Centre for Trades and Technology, located at the North Hill campus in Brandon.
“Assiniboine values its partnerships with industry members to enrich learning experiences for students,” said Kevin Poirier, Dean of Trades at Assiniboine. “This initiative will allow students to put their newly acquired skills to practice in a real-world application under the guidance of journeyperson-certified instructors.”
S.E.L. Housing Inc, a sister company to South End Lumber – Timber Mart, will provide house plans and building materials required to construct the project. In addition, labour performed by Assiniboine students will be appraised, and a donation will be made to an S.E.L. fund to support trade programs at the college.
“We are proud of our longstanding roots in Manitoba,” said Scott Norosky, President at S.E.L. Housing Inc. “Being able to provide a project that would enable students to gain valuable hands-on experience while also giving back to the community was an easy decision for us.”
Following the conclusion of the trade programs each spring, the project will be transitioned to S.E.L. Housing for completion.
Assiniboine Community College was a familiar place when I came to serve as Vice President, Academic in 2016— I had been coming to the college as a consultant for about four years, and I was impressed with the opportunities ahead. I came with a passion for organizational transformation, for student access and success, and for Indigenous education. I was optimistic that I could make a contribution to the college with my background in community college leadership.
I hold a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Simon Fraser University, where I taught educational leadership in the Faculty of Education, and I continue to be Adjunct Professor and an affiliated scholar with the Centre for the Study of Educational Leadership and Policy.
My role as VP Academic involves overseeing the academic operations of the college, from programs to faculty to students. I’m proud of the work we do and delivering results to the communities we serve. Working with the people at Assiniboine is rewarding, as is the opportunity to make a difference in the community.
I started my post-secondary education as a mature student, and encourage others to consider investing in their education – it is never too late to start your own educational journey and to follow your career dreams.
I focus on relationships, and I strive to support excellence in others. Others would say I have high standards and value fairness. I seek out mentoring opportunities, and as both an educator and colleague, I really value supporting and celebrating others’ professional and personal successes and growth. I also really enjoy solving problems and supporting others’ creativity and innovation. The success of our students is the best reward of all. Graduation ceremonies are really the best part of the academic year!
A highlight of my work is seeing the outcomes from the hard work of our various teams. In 2021, we saw a $5.1 million investment from Manitoba in nurse education, the largest increase in funded seats that the college has seen in over 20 years. In January 2023, we were delighted with the announcement that Manitoba will invest $10 million to support the development of the Prairie Innovation Centre for Sustainable Agriculture. We have also been successful growing applied research at the college, with a total of $2.5 million in applied research grants in 2022.
I have really appreciated the opportunities for leadership development provided to me at work and as a volunteer. Since I was a student, I have been volunteering as a board member in community and professional organizations, including several early learning centres. These have been important developmental experiences. I continue to be involved in voluntary service, currently serving as a board member for the Canadian Society for Study Higher Education.
I was honoured by the Western Manitoba community to receive the YWCA Woman of Distinction Award for Education in 2019. This award recognized professional leadership, commitment to excellence, influence and motivation of positive change, and the enhancement of lives of people in the community. This was such a touching recognition. My first significant job after graduating was working for a YWCA!
I have continued my research program since coming to Brandon. I was a faculty advisor on the National Taskforce on the Experience of Graduate Students with Disabilities, and continued my research on a series of funded projects. Our work on policies for students with disabilities, with my research assistant Olivia Auriat, received national attention and was featured in the Brandon Sun.
I have published on equity in apprenticeship for more than 20 years. Last year, my colleague at Assiniboine, Michael Cameron (Dean of Community Development), and I published an innovative case study in community-based access to apprenticeship, focussing on Indigenous education.
Most recently, I co-edited a new international volume Comparative Higher Education Politics: Policymaking in North America and Western Europe, which will be released by Springer’s Higher Education Dynamics series in April 2023. This book provides an overview of the state of the art of research on the politics of
higher education policy in Canada, the US, and Western Europe. It is so exciting to see this project come to completion after seven years in development.
Canada’s community college system provides positive opportunities for individuals from equity-deserving groups to find supportive learning communities and meet employment goals.
I am committed to being a good ally and lifelong learning. Assiniboine’s equity, diversity and inclusion work is important to the communities we serve, and to us as educators in our professional practice.
The college’s approach to reconciliation was developed in the Indigenization Strategy, and continues to build momentum. We have seen an increase in Indigenous student participation and success, reflecting 1,164 students and 261 graduates in 2022. We have created new services, spaces, and visual identity on campus, and initiated cultural competency work, which is ongoing. At the request of Indigenous communities, we have launched new credit programs including Anishinaabe Financial Management, Restorative Justice, and Child Development Worker and there are exciting new Indigenization curriculum efforts currently underway.
International education is very important to Manitoba and to us as an organization. To meet Manitoba’s immigration and labour market needs, in 2017 we developed an Academic Framework for International Education Expansion and Success to cultivate a shared perspective and common goals on expansion of international activities at the college. Since then, there have been several years of faculty and staff professional development to support diverse learners in our classrooms. International student enrolment has increased from 188 to 678 between 2016 and 2022, with strong labour market outcomes.
In January 2023 I was honoured to receive the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal (Manitoba), which had a strong focus on community mindedness, service, and reconciliation. It was a very proud moment for me, and for my family.
Photo (left to right): Premier Heather Stefanson, Dr. Deanna Rexe, Hon. Anita Neville, Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba, Len Isleifson, MLA for Brandon East.Working with Deanna for the past several years, I have learned a great deal. Her commitment to students, education and applied research is first-rate, and she has been working to enhance student experiences and support college growth since she joined Assiniboine,”
Mark Frison, President of Assiniboine
The Alumni Association hosted its first-ever New Graduate Mixer! It was a fantastic opportunity for alumni and upcoming graduates to build networks and expand their professional connections.
» Good luck to Josh Crabb, Media Production grad from the class of 2005 and a past One to Watch alumni award recipient, who recently made the move from CTV Winnpeg to CBC.
» In September 2022, Michelle Allison (Business Administration 2009, Agribusiness 2013) and Nathan Bertholet (Business Administration 2009) tied the knot in Brandon. Nathan is a Financial Officer with Burns Maendel Consulting Engineers and Michelle was recently promoted to Director of Annex Business Media's new content studio, Amplify, in addition to her executive management role as Group Publisher, Agriculture.
» Congratulations to Cyndi Hyde on her new role at the college as Staff Advisor in Human Resources. Cyndi is a 2001 graduate from the Business Administration program, with a specialization in Human Resources.
» Alumnus Jacob Degroot, who graduated from the Broadcast Arts program in 1989, retired in January 2020 after 30 years working for the CBC in Winnipeg. All the best on your next adventure!
» Congratulations to Desiree Brightnose on being named the recipient of the inaugural RBC Emerging Indigenous Filmmaker award, from the National Screen Institute and the RBC Foundation. Brightnose, an Interactive and Media Arts alum from the class of 2020, launched her own production company, Tilted Teepee Productions, shortly after graduation.
» Media Production alumnus, Randy Frykas, class of 2000, has released a new documentary series on outdoor rinks in Canada. Check out the Outdoor Hockey Club on Instagram and YouTube to watch the first two of ten episodes of the series that captures stories, sights and sounds from outdoor rinks around the country!
» Assiniboine alumnus, Christine Steele (Secretarial, class of 1995) had her silk pillowcases, Blush Silks, included in the gift bags handed out at the 95th annual Academy Awards in LA!
Visit us online and share your news or achievements at assiniboine.net/alumni
Research conducted by the Canadian Association of Gift Planners (CAGP) has uncovered that 8% of Canadians have gifts for charity in their will. As current giving declines around the world due to the pressures of increasing costs of living, gifts in wills have become a more popular way for people to make a difference for future generations and still have funds to live on during their lifetime.
Assiniboine Community College Foundation Inc. has recently dusted off its planned giving program. Alumni and friends can set up gifts in their wills for student scholarships, bursaries and awards, lectureships, speaker series, named spaces, equipment, field excursions and industry visits or to the area of greatest need. These gifts help provide access to education as well as unparalleled experiences for students. Any of these gifts can be funded as pay-down trusts or set up as named endowments, giving donors a permanent personal legacy.
For more information on making a legacy gift, contact Beth Proven at provenb2@assiniboine.net or 204.223.5708.
