Fanshawe Annual 2023

ANNUAL

My name is Alexander Santos Martinez and I am a fashion and portrait photographer. I am 22 years old and was born and raised in Panama City, Panama. I consider myself a very passionate and dedicated person. I love making my photo shoots an unforgettable experience in a way that the whole team can save a picture of it in their hearts.

Since I was 16 years old, I knew that I wanted to be a great photographer. While I was in high school I started to work hard to achieve my goal and I was able to participate in a national photography competition TV show, work with multiple models and fashion designers and photograph runways for Fashion Week Panama for three years.

Due to my efforts, I was able to receive a scholarship to study photography at Fanshawe College. In October 2019 I came alone to Canada to begin my studies and follow my dreams. I became a teaching assistant in the second year of my program and it was an incredible experience. Then at the end of the second year (April 2022) in the annual image competition, I won first place in the portrait category. I graduated in June 2022 and I feel that my journey as a photographer has just started!

It has been another banner year at Fanshawe highlighted by exceptional learning opportunities for our students, powerful connections that support our communities and strong enrolment from students near and far looking to unlock their potential at Fanshawe.

Over the last several years, we have seen a significant increase in the number of international students who choose to study at Fanshawe. International students from more than 100 different countries now make up 42 per cent of our student population, with more than 8,400 living, studying and working in Southwestern Ontario. We expect international student enrolment growth to continue and soon half of our students will be international.

International students enrich our College community by sharing their diverse cultures, traditions and customs with classmates and faculty members. Those who are from Canada and have not had an opportunity to experience other cultures can learn so much from their international neighbours. There is also a significant benefit to our local, provincial and national economies when international students help fill gaps in the labour market.

Employer workforce needs are ever-changing, and it is Fanshawe’s responsibility to ensure students are prepared to meet the needs of employers. It’s a challenge we welcome by embracing a culture of innovation that positions our College as a leader and a vital partner in our community and around the world.

Fanshawe is proud to provide every student with a Signature Innovative Learning Experience (SILEx) opportunity so they gain the technical and human skills required for a changing world of work. You will see examples of SILEx projects throughout this publication, including faculty and students providing behind-the-scenes support during The Amazing Race Canada’s visit to London and, more recently, conducting the first drone - based runway safety inspection at the London International Airport.

THIS IS FANSHAWE A N N U A L

Whatever the future holds, our students and community partners can be sure that Fanshawe’s commitment to innovation will only continue to thrive and empower the entrepreneurial spirit that is necessary in the job market of the present and future.

Christina Aguilera wears a custom design by Sebastian Guarin in the music video for the song “Santo.”

“It’s so rewarding to see icons I grew up listening to wear my designs.”

Photo credit: Zoe Rain www.rainstudio.com

FANSHAWE

GRADUATE MAKES

Designer to the stars

HIS MARK IN THE FASHION WORLD.

Sebastian Guarin (Fashion Design alumni, 2014) has been inspired by celebrity fashion since childhood. Little did he know he would one day create custom designs for some of music’s biggest style icons.

Sebastian completed Fanshawe’s Fashion Design advanced diploma program in 2014. He was drawn to the program because it covered all aspects of design from concept to technical skills, like sewing and pattern drafting.

“I wanted to make sure I had all the skills to succeed,” recalls Sebastian. “It paid off to go to Fanshawe as I can do everything if needed, especially during last‑minute custom requests.”

After graduation, Sebastian started a women’s ready to wear label known as Atelier Guarin. Starting a label was an opportunity to set his own path, and it has been a success. He began selling at Hudson’s Bay and, through creative vision and using his networks, he started working on celebrity projects.

“I have designed for some of my favourites, like Christina Aguilera, Kali Uchis, Kehlani, JoJo, Mya and more,” says Sebastian. “It’s so rewarding to see icons I grew up listening to and watching them wear my designs.”

Sebastian shows no signs of slowing down. He continues to work on new collections, grow his brand and he hopes to dress more icons. The lessons he took away from Fanshawe continue to influence his work today.

“I think everything we were taught helped me in some way,” says Sebastian. “Custom requests can be unexpected, last minute projects. Fanshawe is where I learned to stay on task and get the work done.”

RISING DEMAND

RISING DEMAND

Fanshawe’s newly renovated $5 million welding lab is one of the largest welding training facilities in Southwestern Ontario.

This Employment Ontario project is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.

This new welding lab will provide students with life-changing opportunities to get hands-on experience in the industry.

The old adage says “practice makes perfect.” And for many students enrolled in programs related to skilled trades, having a dedicated space to hone their hands-on training is crucial.

Combine that with the rising demand in the use of its facilities and programs, Fanshawe’s nearly 50-yearold welding lab was in critical need of renovation.

The College recently unveiled its newly upgraded $5 million welding lab, which included renovation and equipment refurbishment, with more than $800,000 provided through the Province of Ontario’s Apprenticeship Capital Grant.

Fanshawe was able to increase the available welding stations from 37 to 70, including 20 welding simulation stations, expanding the footprint of the lab into two rooms. There are also separate instructional areas to enable classes to run simultaneously.

The simulation stations give students a huge advantage, as they are able to practice their skills in a virtual environment without using the vast amount of physical materials that traditional welding stations have.

“This new welding lab will provide students with life-changing opportunities to get hands-on experience in the industry,” said Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “We need more skilled workers to help grow our economy. By investing in projects like this, our government is helping students get the training they need to start meaningful and lucrative careers.”

Guests at the lab’s grand opening event—including London North Centre Member of Parliament Peter Fragiskatos and Member of Provincial Parliament for Elgin-Middlesex-London, Rob Flack—had the opportunity to test their skills at the simulated welding stations.

Fanshawe graduate

turns a passion for culinary arts into an award-winning business.

LIVIN’ LA VIDA LOCA

Jorge Gonzalez (Culinary Management alumni, 2019) describes himself as a “ribber for life.”

“Gonzalez,” as he is known, was raised in Venezuela and always had a passion for cooking. His specialty is putting a unique spin on traditional Latin American recipes.

After immigrating to Canada and opening a food truck, Gonzalez decided to pursue post-secondary education to take his business to the next level.

He enrolled in Fanshawe’s Culinary Management diploma program where he learned the skills needed to run his business, as well as crucial language skills.

“We learned the history of the food we prepared, how to manage food costs and the discipline needed in the kitchen,” says Gonzalez. “I was concerned about English as my second language, but the teachers were a big help.”

Gonzalez opened his restaurant, Go Gonzalez BBQ, after he graduated. These days, he is a regular on Ontario’s rib fest circuit and has won several awards; in 2022, he took first place at both London Ribfest and at Canada’s first Halal rib fest in Toronto.

“It was incredible to be recognized for all that hard work,” recalls Gonzalez. “It felt like a win for the ‘little guy’.”

He credits his time at Fanshawe with giving him the edge to win those competitions.

“It’s not just about the ribs falling off the bone or the sauce we use,” he says. “It’s being able to speak about the food that makes a difference.”

Gonzalez takes immense pride in his accomplishments, and the lessons he learned along the way continue to guide him.

“To succeed in life, it takes time and knowledge,” he says. “You can’t hurry things—just like you can’t hurry a rack of ribs.”

“To succeed in life, it takes time and knowledge.”

Film is the new runway

Fanshawe’s creative industry programs are taking a winning approach to fashion filmmaking.

Since 2006, Fashion Design students at Fanshawe have held an annual runway show called UNBOUND to showcase their work. When the 2020 show was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, faculty and students looked at new, innovative ways to present their designs.

In collaboration with students in the Advanced Filmmaking, Music Industry Arts and Visual Effects and Editing for Contemporary Media programs, they began exploring the growing trend of fashion films to accompany their collection presentations.

says Loren Couto, sustainable fashion professor and creative director of UNBOUND. “What emerged was a powerful sustainable fashion digital experience.”

The first film, 2020’s UNBOUND Revival, was well received in the industry; it was screened at the Forest City Film Festival and won the award for Best Student Film at the Canadian International Fashion Film Festival (CANIFFF).

In 2021, the film rosetta.exe explored the role science, design, technology and the arts can play in fostering connections during a time of isolation and loneliness. It received international attention with screenings at the Rome International Fashion Film Festival and La Jolla International Fashion Film Festival.

An Ojibwe-language film, One = People + Planet, premiered in 2022. It is a collaboration between Indigenous and non-Indigenous filmmakers and fashion designers. The film was named an official selection at a number of international fashion film festivals and received nominations from CANIFFF and the Croatia Fashion Film Festival.

“Fanshawe is a leader in sustainable fashion design, and the films we produce showcase the professional level of creative talents across different programs at the College,” says Loren. “The art of storytelling is a powerful way to educate and inspire social and environmental change.”

“One = People + Planet” film artwork

“The pause in 2020 offered us the opportunity to reflect, re-evaluate and innovate,”

ANIMATE OR AVIATE?

It’s called the adventure of a lifetime.

After a two year absence due to the COVID-19 pandemic, CTV’s hit reality show, The Amazing Race Canada, returned to our screens. Hosted by Olympic champion Jon Montgomery, the show sees 10 teams embark on a race across Canada, all vying for a grand prize at the finish line.

In an episode entitled “Racing for our Lives,” eight teams had to choose between two challenges at Fanshawe: Animate or Aviate.

At the Norton Wolf School of Aviation and Aerospace Technology, teams were challenged to assemble a propeller onto a Cessna 150. At the School of Digital and Performing Arts, one team member put on a motion capture suit while the other took on the role of director. The performer had to attempt the exact moves of an animated movie featuring Jon Montgomery and could not communicate with the director once the motion capture began.

Photos courtesy of CTV

Michelle Shipley, a film professor at Fanshawe’s School of Contemporary Media, was hired by the show’s production company to help pull the locations and challenges together.

“Back in January 2020, I began scouting locations with senior producer Ann Camilleri,” Michelle says. “I knew Fanshawe’s animation and aviation programs were unique to the College and would be something our viewers would be interested in seeing.”

The Fanshawe connection didn’t end there. Michelle was able to hire a team of production assistants, made up of Fanshawe graduates and current students.

“Nearly 50 of our grads and students worked on the episode,” says Michelle. “ The Amazing Race Canada staff were incredibly impressed with our production assistants, who received their training right here at Fanshawe.”

“The Amazing Race Canada staff were incredibly impressed with our production assistants, who received their training right here at Fanshawe.”

Nimira Parpia launched her career as an entrepreneur 15 years ago by following her dream.

She wanted to open a store for babies and children with the goal of providing families with safe, well-made, essential products for their little ones.

Nimira is the successful owner of Tadpole Children’s Shoppe, which at its inception, was a brick and mortar store. She has since transitioned her business entirely online, using the Shopify platform.

With her vast experience as an entrepreneur, Nimira was seeking a way to share her expertise with others who were thinking of starting their own business.

“I happened to see that Fanshawe was looking for instructors to teach microcredential courses,” she says. “I saw this to be the perfect opportunity to teach what I had learned through my career.”

Microcredentials are short-term courses focused on enhancing a person’s skill set and equipping them to grow in their career. Learners who may not be looking to pursue a full college credential can instead attain a microcredential in a few weeks or months, or add on to the credentials they have already earned.

“All of the participants I have met either have a full-time job or are taking other courses during the day,” Nimira says.

Nimira has found teaching the Shopify microcredential to be very rewarding.

“All the participants have been women who have come up with brilliant ideas for their online business,” Nimira says. “It has been such a joy and pleasure to support them in their ventures. A few of these participants were ready to launch their websites after taking the Shopify series of microcredential courses.”

THE PERFECT OPPORTUNITY A N N U A L

“Microcredentials allow you to go at your own pace during days, evenings and weekends.”

Fanshawe offers 75 individual microcredential badges and 20 microcredential series badges. For those looking for an affordable way to upskill on their own schedule, it’s time to explore all of Fanshawe’s microcredentials.

fanshawec.ca/ microcredentials

PERFECT OPPORTUNITY

Fanshawe arrives

Beginning in September 2022, ILAC has been delivering these Fanshawe programs which were selected on the basis of labour market needs:

• Addictions and Mental Health • Developmental Services Worker

• Hospitality – Hotel and Resort Services Management (Co-op)

Fanshawe post-secondary programs are now being offered to international students in a newly renovated facility on Bay Street in downtown Toronto—called Fanshawe Toronto—thanks to a new partnership with International Language Academy of Canada (ILAC), one of the most-awarded English language schools in the world.

The first cohort of 385 students from more than 13 countries, enrolled in one of five in-demand human service and hospitality programs, began their studies in September surrounded by many employers able to provide vital on-the-job experience. The partnership plans to eventually grow enrolment beyond 2,000 students when at full capacity.

“Fanshawe is excited to be partnering with ILAC as we broaden the reach of Fanshawe’s high-quality diploma and post-graduate programs to international students who will contribute to Ontario’s and Canada’s labour market,” says Wendy Curtis, dean of Fanshawe International.

Students who study at the Fanshawe Toronto location will join the ranks of the College’s growing alumni family upon graduation, with an industry-recognized Fanshawe credential.

says Jonathan Kolber, CEO of ILAC. “Fanshawe’s leadership in student diversity and its studentfirst approach are strongly aligned with ILAC’s core values. We intend to grow Fanshawe Toronto into a brand that employers come to first for graduates looking

“We have worked with ILAC to develop pathway programming for over a decade, so this is a natural extension of our partnership.”

“Fanshawe is the gold standard in international education,”

for good jobs.”

SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST

Fanshawe graduate becomes the first Canadian to win Survivor.

In 2021, Erika Casupanan (Multimedia Design and Production alumni, 2011) defied the odds, winning the 41 st season of the television show Survivor.

Erika’s family moved from the Philippines to Canada when she was one year old. Watching Survivor became an escape after her grandfather passed away, and she decided she would one day compete on the show.

In 2020, Erika’s dream came true when she sent in an audition tape and made the cast. She studied the game and spent hours training. The COVID-19 pandemic delayed her season until 2021, and when filming began, it was a different experience than she expected.

“In 2020, I wanted to be the perfect player,” says Erika. “By the time I played the game in 2021, I didn’t really care about that. I embraced flexibility. I focused on people skills and getting to know those around me. This mindset shift ultimately got me to the end of the game.”

Her experiences ranged from excitement when host Jeff Probst would call her by name, to fear when she was exiled to an island by herself. Then, the elation of being named “Sole Survivor.”

“A lot of people counted me out,” recalls Erika. “One of the best parts about winning was when women, particularly Asian women, told me how inspired they were by me just believing in myself. I’ll never forget what it felt like to be underestimated and then to succeed.”

Photo credit: Robert Voets/CBS

Photo credit: Robert Voets/CBS

“

PAVING THE WAY TO CICan

An innovative and caring approach to student success leads to national recognition.

Before “Zoom” became a common verb and online education became a necessity during the COVID-19 pandemic, Karen Klee was laying the foundation for work that became worthy of receiving the 2022 Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) Gold Leadership Excellence Award for Faculty.

As coordinator of Fanshawe’s Developmental Services Worker (DSW) program, Karen was an early adopter of eLearning tools and strategies that allowed her to incorporate blended learning and interactive online lectures to enhance student engagement and comprehension.

Tiffany-Anne Stones, a DSW graduate in 2017 who works at Community Living London, recalls how Karen’s classes included a mix of engaging lectures, fun activities and sharing of her professional experience that helped solidify the content.

“Karen demonstrates a remarkable balance between high expectations that push students towards excellence and support to help them be successful,” she says.

When DSW programs at other colleges shifted to all-virtual learning and placements at the height of the pandemic, Karen and the DSW team worked with community partners and students to maintain exceptional learning experiences.

“Besides the health and safety of my students and the community, my focus was ensuring our DSW students had authentic experiences working with people with disabilities before graduation,” says Karen. “That hands-on experience is critical as they embark on their career.”

When asked to reflect on her award—which she considers “an achievement of a lifetime”—Karen says she was touched by how much it was valued at the College.

“I have always felt appreciated at Fanshawe, but receiving this award made me feel like a kid bringing home an A+ and having my parents celebrate the accomplishment by pinning it on the fridge,” she says. “The reception has truly blown my socks off!”

“I have always felt appreciated at Fanshawe, but receiving this award made me feel like a kid bringing home an A+.”

As one of Ontario’s largest colleges, Fanshawe’s financial picture can seem complex. We sat down with Jenny Ruz , vice president of finance and administration, to learn more about Fanshawe’s finances.

CHECKS

Where does Fanshawe’s revenue come from?

Most of Fanshawe’s revenue comes from student tuition. We also see revenue from ancillary fees, like student residence and parking. The College also receives provincial government funding through operating grants to support domestic students so that their tuition fees remain at a level to allow access to a college education. This government funding that we receive for domestic students is why domestic and international students pay different amounts.

The College’s audited financial statements are available on our website.

How is Fanshawe investing resources to help students?

Investing in student success is our main focus. All colleges, including Fanshawe, must set aside a portion of the tuition collected to be used for student assistance purposes. Fanshawe also fundraises for additional awards and bursaries to recognize academic achievements and to help students offset the costs associated with post-secondary studies. Students can apply for emergency funding if they

face an unexpected crisis while in school. We do everything we can to help students who need it most.

We have also made significant investments in learning spaces. This includes Innovation Village, the new Oral Health Clinic and a new welding lab equipped with virtual welding stations. These investments are made with the goal of meeting labour market and community needs.

BALANCES

One of Fanshawe’s values is “use resources wisely.” How do our values affect how the College uses financial resources?

Using our financial resources wisely is so important to Fanshawe’s short- and long-term success. We have thorough processes in place for all aspects of managing finances. We focus on financial stability so the College will be sustainable both now and in the future. We also have committees in place, like our capital planning committee, to make sure plans for our largest expenses go through proper checks and balances.

What are some misconceptions people may have about Fanshawe’s financial picture?

I think one of the biggest misconceptions is that our goal is to turn a profit. As a public college, we need to be financially stable. Part of how we do that is making sure we spend less than we earn, just like people do in their day-to-day lives. This helps ensure our long-term stability. A surplus allows us to maintain our facilities and keep ancillary costs as low as possible by not passing along

the full increases we see from vendors to students. We can maintain a reserve fund to ensure operations keep running in unexpected situations, like the shutdowns related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fanshawe’s approach to financial stability has served us well. We are a strong institution and set up very well for the future.

Chef Hofner preparing a meal.

(Pictured right) Chef Hofner teaching students

DESSERT FIT FOR A QUEEN

Culinary faculty recalls making a special dessert for Queen Elizabeth II.

Chef Roland Hofner, coordinator of Fanshawe’s Baking and Pastry Arts Management program, has cooked for some high-profile guests over his 40 - plus year career in the kitchens of five-star hotels, exclusive cruise ships and catering companies in Canada and abroad, but one experience rises above the others like a perfectly baked soufflé.

Chef Hofner prepared dessert for Queen Elizabeth II during her 1984 royal tour of Canada while working as a pastry chef and baker at what was then called the Toronto Hilton Harbour Castle.

He recalls it was “quite an exciting” and “nerve -wracking” experience with 2,000 guests dining on a menu that took six months of preparation and testing by officials to make sure it was “suited” for the Queen.

“Everybody felt very special and happy to cook and bake for her, but there was tremendous tension among the staff in the hotel that everything would go according to plan,” he says.

He managed to catch a glimpse of the Queen eating with Prince Philip by peeking through a door. “They enjoyed it very thoroughly,” he said. “She wrote a thank-you letter to all of us and we all got a little commemorative coin given to us by her.”

While Chef Hofner didn’t get to meet her in person he says, “just cooking for her was all a chef can dream of.”

Here’s your chance to eat like royalty!

Try your hand at recreating the frozen peach parfait that Chef Hofner prepared for the Queen. If you’re hungry for more, Fanshawe’s School of Tourism, Hospitality and Culinary Arts offers many continuing education courses, including Let’s Bake Pies, Tarts & Pastry.

Scan the QR code to get the recipe Chef Hofner prepared for the Queen.

Margaret Price was one of Fanshawe’s first Black and first female leaders, serving as dean in the 1970s.

BLAZING THE TRAIL

Margaret Price has had an incredible life’s journey.

Originally from the island of Tobago, Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Margaret embarked on a career in nursing, beginning her studies in Trinidad. Her adventurous spirit led her to pursue further education in England and Canada, eventually completing a doctorate in public administration.

“My goal was to reach the top of my profession,” says Margaret. “I had a preconceived idea of people in leadership roles, and I didn’t think that was me. But, I kept that goal in mind.”

Margaret worked as director of nursing at (then) London Psychiatric Hospital, and then came to Fanshawe as the first dean of Nursing, becoming one of the College’s first Black and first female leaders. She was also appointed dean of Health Sciences.

Margaret Price shared her story with Fanshawe to mark International Women’s Day 2022.

After reaching the top of her profession at Fanshawe, she felt called to serve elsewhere.

Over her 50-plus year career, Margaret worked in more than 17 countries. She had appointments with the Pan American Health Organization, the World Health Organization, the Canadian International Development Agency, the Danish International Development Agency, as well as working with social programs in the countries in which she lived, including Trinidad and Tobago’s COVID-19 pandemic response team.

Fanshawe has grown considerably since Margaret was here, and she knows that today’s students will face many challenges along their journey.

“Make sure you have a goal and stay focused,” she says.

“When obstacles get in your way, do not let that be the end of your hopes, use them to strengthen you.”

The Fanshawe community is taking important steps toward dismantling oppression.

In February 2022, Fanshawe’s President Peter Devlin signed the Scarborough Charter on Anti-Black Racism and Black Inclusion in Canadian Higher Education on behalf of the College. He also signed the Tri-Council Dimensions Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Charter, demonstrating a commitment to embed EDI principles in College policies, practices and action plans.

This was one of many important actions taken last year to advance a sense of belonging for equity-deserving employees and students and to affirm the College’s commitment to addressing and dismantling oppression.

“Over the past year, I’ve been touched by the number of people who have trusted me with their stories,” says Joseph Pazzano, Fanshawe’s director of EDI. “I’m inspired by the many folks at Fanshawe who are committed to fostering an authentic sense of belonging for everyone.”

Many important initiatives are underway at the College. Fanshawe launched an EDI and Anti-Oppression Task Force with more than 30 diverse members of the community. The task force is working on an EDI strategic framework and action plan for the College.

Fanshawe hired its first anti-racism and inclusion specialist, Troy Townsend, in the summer of 2022. Troy provides support and guidance to staff, students and faculty who have experienced inequity or oppression. She advances EDI education through new programs and events.

The EDI team has implemented a number of initiatives to raise awareness of systemic barriers, including days of action, workshops for College leaders and a new EDI Talks interview series with members of the Fanshawe community.

“Any institution on an equity journey knows it’s a long road,” says Joseph. “As we venture to make our campuses more inclusive, we may feel uncomfortable. As long as we process those feelings into action, I believe we can achieve our vision.”

HT I S ISINCLUSIONTH

I S NOISULCNISI

Fanshawe students and employees attend the Transgender Day of Remembrance vigil on November 17, 2022.

“I’m inspired by the many folks at Fanshawe who are committed to fostering an authentic sense of belonging for everyone.”

EYE PRIZE FOR THE

Trevor Pottelberg is an award-winning photographer who graduated from Fanshawe’s Advanced Photography program in 2000. Since 2008, he has been teaching in the program, sharing his passion for the craft and accumulated knowledge that comes with being a professional photographer for the past 25 years. He received the 2021 Photographic Artist of the Year Award from the Professional Photographers of Canada (PPOC) for a collection of four images including: ”Roar with Me”, “Spiritual Messengers”, “The Fog” and “Keeper of Her Domain.”

“ROAR WITH ME”

A mother red fox and her nine-week-old cub playing in the early morning light in Oxford County.

Award of Excellence and Judge’s Choice Award at the 2021 PPOC Ontario Provincial Image Salon.

“IN SYNC”

A pair of synchronized Sandhill Cranes in Long Point, Ontario.

Award of Excellence at the 2020 PPOC National Image Salon.

“SPIRITUAL MESSENGERS”

A pair of male cardinals perched amongst the snow-covered forest in early spring.

Award of Merit and Best In Class Award (Pictorial) at the 2021 PPOC Ontario Provincial Salon. Award of Merit at the 2022 PPOC National Image Salon.

“THE OLD SCHOOL HOUSE”

An abandoned schoolhouse in Southwestern Ontario framed against the galactic core of the Milky Way.

Best in Class Award (Pictorial), Award of Merit and Judge’s Choice Award at the 2020 PPOC Ontario Provincial Salon.

Award of Excellence at the 2022 PPOC National Image Salon.

“PIER PRESSURE”

A massive wave crashing into the Port Stanley pier with the main lighthouse standing strong in the background demonstrates raw and destructive beauty. The power of these Great Lake waves can easily be mistaken for ocean waves.

Award of Merit, Best In Class and was put on Loan Collection at the 2020 PPOC National Image Salon.

“KEEPER OF HER DOMAIN”

A Great Horned Owl peering out from a giant tree in Southwestern Ontario

Award of Excellence at the 2022 PPOC National Image Salon.

PAYING IT FORWARD

How one Fanshawe graduate is making a difference for children in Indonesia.

Mery Tarigan (Golf and Club Management alumni, 2020) had a difficult childhood, but always kept a positive attitude.

She and her three siblings were raised in Indonesia by a single mother who struggled to get by. Mery was offered a university scholarship after high school, but turned it down to help provide for her family.

Mery found work as a golf caddy in Malaysia. There, she met Canadians Paul and Janet Tufts. Moved by her story, they helped her come to Canada and became her “house parents.” Mery enrolled in Fanshawe’s Golf and Club Management program and English Language Institute (ELI).

“Mery was a superstar in our program, getting involved in every opportunity,” says Tina Martin, student integration facilitator for the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program. “She made us proud with her positive attitude and heartforward nature.”

Mery earned many accolades, including being named both Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association National Scholar and women’s golf MVP in the 2019/20 year. Though she already achieved so much, when Paul and Janet asked what her dream was, she had a big goal in mind.

“I wanted to build a preschool for poor children in Indonesia,” says Mery. “I had an unhappy childhood, and it was hard for my family to afford to send me to school. I don’t want other children to feel that way.”

To date, Mery has raised $35,000 and 45 students have completed their year at the school.

Mery finished her studies at Fanshawe in 2020 and continues to build her career.

“I love Fanshawe,” she says. “I am grateful for the connections I made and for everyone who helped me get where I am today.”

To date, Mery has raised $35,000, allowing 45 students to complete their year at the school.

Jen Cowdrey’s interest in vehicles can be traced back to her childhood.

AN EMPOWERING PATH

“My dad was a diesel mechanic, so I grew up helping him fix trucks, tractors and transports,” she recalls. “I have always loved fixing things, taking things apart and learning how vehicles work.”

After completing Fanshawe’s Motive Power Technician program and working at dealerships for a few years, Jen returned to the College to take the Mechanical Engineering Technician program, which launched her career with General Motors Canada (GM).

“This program provided me with the opportunity of a one-year co-op placement with GM at the CAMI Assembly plant, which led to fulltime employment,” Jen says. “From maintenance supervisor to quality engineering lead, I have thoroughly enjoyed my years at GM and the array of experiences and education I have gained. Currently, I am the chassis and electrical systems quality engineering lead for GM’s commercial electric vehicle.”

While Jen’s field has traditionally been male-dominated, she and many other advocates in the trades are making it a more inclusive sector.

“In my volunteer work out in the community, I see more young women picking up tools and taking things apart themselves,” Jen says. “If you like learning how things work, know that there are employers like GM, schools like Fanshawe and women in trades that are working together to break down barriers.”

At GM, Jen is encouraged to bring her authentic self to work and believes the trades can open up doors.

“Considering the trades as a career can be an empowering path,” she says. “And more generally, consider what you can do to help make the trades a more inclusive place for all. We’re here to stand behind those women who are realizing their own goals and dreams, who have a relentless desire to pursue the trades.”

Fanshawe graduate Jen Cowdrey brings her authentic self to a hands-on world.

“ ”

If you like learning how things work, know that there are employers like GM, schools like Fanshawe and women in trades that are working together to break down barriers.

North Star Windows and Doors has become a valued partner of Fanshawe’s Advanced Industry and Business Solutions (ABIS). ABIS is an internal College network that provides support for external partners and provides services including corporate training and upskilling, employee recruitment, research and product testing.

“We’re committed

building the leaders of

worked with Fanshawe on training opportunities for our staff and to create the Window and Door Installer microcertification program,” says Sheldon Dyck, general manager of North Star.

OPENING DOORS FOR A N N U A L

(Pictured) Testing the effects of UV-C light on glass surfaces.

to

tomorrow; we

What started as a request for employee upskilling led to new program development and cutting-edge research.

This led to an exciting joint research project. Ultra-violet lights, specifically UV-C, are known to disinfect both the air and surfaces. At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, many hospitals and long-term care facilities increased their use of these lights to help curb the spread of the virus.

“What isn’t known yet is what effect UV-C lights have on glass surfaces,” says Glenn Schmitchen, engineering manager at North Star. “For example, we use laminate film on coloured windows, and we don’t know if UV-C light may deteriorate the laminate.”

Through Fanshawe’s Centre for Research and Innovation (CRI), North Star secured a research grant from the Southern Ontario Network for Advanced Manufacturing Innovation (SONAMI) to help answer this important question.

Led by Niagara College, SONAMI is a network of nine postsecondary institutions, including CRI, backed by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario). SONAMI leverages faculty, students and state-of-the-market equipment to support manufacturing in Southern Ontario.

The research will take place at Fanshawe’s ABIS facility on Bonder Road in east London.

“Through ABIS, we are creating a pathway for external partners to access the College,” says Candace Miller, director of strategic initiatives and business development at Fanshawe. “North Star has been involved in almost every pillar of ABIS, and we are so grateful for the innovation they bring.”

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We started to think about other initiatives that would fit with Fanshawe’s resources and expertise.

G SKILLED TRADES

THE SECTOR

O W I N

A transformational gift is poised to make skilled trades careers more accessible.

Fanshawe College will soon be home to a new community hub for people looking to build a career in the skilled trades, thanks to a generous $2 million donation from the Crich family.

The Don Crich Skilled Trades Accelerator will be an entrance point for all members of the community to learn more about trades and share employment opportunities. The space

is named for Don Crich, founder of Auburn Developments, TerraCorp Management, Auburn Homes and Stonerise Construction. He passed away in 2015.

MILLION DONATION

“The opportunity to partner with Fanshawe College to celebrate my father’s legacy, while simultaneously creating a unique space to support trades education in our community, is extremely important to our family,” says Jamie Crich, president of Auburn Developments. There is a critical demand in today’s labour market for people who are trained in skilled trades. The supply of workers is shrinking, and the number of jobs in the trades is expected to increase by 10 to 20 per cent over the next eight years.

The idea for the accelerator was sparked by Jamie’s sister, Karen, who was a member of the Fanshawe College Foundation Board of Directors. She saw the need for a go-to place in Southwestern Ontario for people who are interested in careers in skilled trades.

Karen passed away in 2021, and her vision continues to drive the development of this new space.

“Karen recognized it can be challenging for people who are interested in skilled trades to get started,” says Jamie. “Building this information hub under the Fanshawe brand was important to her; she saw community colleges as the link to helping people get into the trades.”

The Don Crich Skilled Trades Accelerator is expected to open in spring 2023.

FROM THE CRICH FAMILY

As data surfaces about the harmful effects of single-use plastics on the environment, an opportunity has emerged to research ways to ensure those products do not end up in landfills.

LiveFit Foods, a local food preparation and delivery company, recently partnered with Fanshawe’s Centre for Research and Innovation (CRI) to find a way to reduce waste from plastic food containers. To tackle this challenge, a team was formed including: principal co-investigators Istok Nahtigal and Sahar Samimi; research facilitator Ian Butcher; analytical scientist Omar Zoaarob; and research assistant Aida Balaz, a third-year student in Fanshawe’s Chemical Laboratory Technology advanced diploma program.

CRI’s team developed a process to break down polyesterbased plastic packaging into liquid or powder forms, which can then be used to develop alternative, high-quality products. The process helps divert plastic containers from landfills.

says Ian Butcher. “Local innovation can have enormously positive outcomes when companies partner with colleges to tackle hard challenges.”

LiveFit’s parent company, Ethey Group, has evolved into a brand that prioritizes sustainability in the food industry. Founder and CEO, Nick Spina, sees an exciting opportunity to scale the project up and bring the technology to the marketplace.

“The energy from everyone at CRI really brought this project together,” says Nick. “The team has created something exciting that will make a big difference going forward.”

For Aida, working as a research assistant (RA) on this project provided valuable hands-on experience.

“This was such an interesting project,” says Aida. “Working on projects with CRI allows me to learn many procedures and processes. When I graduate, I think my experience as an RA will open a lot of doors.”

“This is a solution to a global problem that is being developed in London,”

Local innovation can have enormously positive outcomes when companies partner with colleges to tackle hard challenges.

Below: Nick Spina, Founder and CEO, Ethey Group

EYE IN THE SKY

Pilot project sees Fanshawe

The London International Airport (YXU) closed runway 09/27 for over six hours the morning of September 20 to allow faculty and students from the Norton Wolf School of Aviation and Aerospace Technology to conduct the first drone-based runway safety inspection at the airport.

With the assistance of specialized equipment provided by Toronto-based drone inspection company, Rosor, the team methodically collected real-time, geo-referenced data from the 1.9-kilometre-long runway. Faculty and students will use photogrammetry—the science of extracting 3D information from photographs—to identify and quantify any potential problems like cracks, buckled pavement or any other abnormalities.

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conduct first drone‑based runway inspection at YXU

Adam Debevc, coordinator of Fanshawe’s Remotely Piloted Aerial Systems (RPAS) – Commercial Operations program, says the project has two main goals: provide a baseline condition assessment that can be compared to subsequent drone inspections and demonstrate that crewed and uncrewed aircraft could operate safely in the same airspace by completing the inspection while runway 15/33 remained open to normal airport operations.

“The aviation industry is still in the early stages of adopting drones to conduct these safety inspections,” says Adam, “so this is an exciting opportunity to get our students involved in an innovative practice.”

Scott McFadzean, president and CEO of London International Airport, says he is excited to partner with Fanshawe on this RPAS special project.

“We have keen interest in supporting Fanshawe’s aviation programs, and their students, in all aspects of the aviation and aerospace industry,” says Scott. “This will be the first time our runway will be inspected by drones using real-time data and we are eager to see the results. We expect drones to play a large role in the aviation industry in the future, in several capacities, and it is exciting to partner with Fanshawe on this unique opportunity.”

A GLOBAL OUTLOOK

Ismail Aravai Mumbai, India

Business Management alumni, 2022

I chose to come to Canada because of its peaceful, multicultural environment and high quality of life.

There are many highlights from my time at Fanshawe, from my first job to being elected as President of the Fanshawe Student Union.

I’ve had inspirational managers and mentors that I really admire and would love to lead an organization in a few years.

I joined Fanshawe as their program development involves industry feedback to make sure that it is up-to-date and approved by the industry.

My best experience with Fanshawe is its people. They are a reflection of Fanshawe’s mission and vision. They are literally #HereForYou.

In one of my courses, we heard from an amazing communicator who works in the health-care industry, and I was inspired to consider a career in health - care communications.

Waynedy Soledad Zambales, Philippines

Advanced Communication for Professionals alumni, 2021 Public Relations-Corporate Communications alumni, 2022

From international students studying in Canada, to domestic students studying abroad, the Fanshawe community is enriched by a global outlook.

Simran Sharma New Delhi, India

Business

Management alumni, 2022

It’s not easy to uproot your life of 25 years and move to a new country where you don’t know anyone. Fanshawe is where I got a sense of belonging. It is a place where, miles away from my culture, I celebrate Diwali and Holi. It’s my safe space and my home away from home.

I was fortunate to receive the opportunity to work with Reputation and Brand Management at Fanshawe as a student recruitment ambassador. In the future, my plan is to be with Fanshawe for the long run.

Cadie De Kelver London, Ontario

Fitness and Health Promotion alumni, 2016 General Arts and Science alumni, 2017 Business Marketing alumni, 2020 Business Administration – Marketing alumni, 2021 Honours Bachelor of Commerce alumni, 2022

I was excited about studying abroad and was sold on the idea when I learned it was affordable. Every time I expected a barrier to stop me from going, there was a resource to make it easier.

I studied in France, and got to explore the Arena of Nîmes, climb the Eiffel Tower and watch the sunrise on the Mediterranean Sea. I was able to see how another country approaches business and problem solving. It was incredible.

My goal is to secure a marketing position in higher education, ideally related to health and wellness promotion.

Artist

THEX FACTOR

“Fanshawe has great performers and songwriters,” says MIA program coordinator Dan Brodbeck. “But Dominique has the X factor that is hard to define. There are star qualities she possesses that are seen in few people.”

With an endorsement like that, it’s of little surprise that Dominique Way was named the Fanshawe Artist of the Year.

Each year, faculty members of the MIA program choose the top artist or band they believe has the greatest potential for future success. They receive a $10,000 award to support the artist’s sound, image or production. It also includes assisting with radio and streaming promotion of a single. The artist will be highlighted on the College’s digital channels and will be featured at a variety of Fanshawe events and presentations.

Dominique was thrilled to be selected. “We had such a wide range of talents in our group, so to hear my name called at the Awards Banquet, I was beside myself,” Dominique says.

Her love of music comes from memories as a child and moments she makes by herself or with friends. “It’s everything from the goosebumps, adrenaline, heart racing, the satisfaction of making something unintentionally special, to sitting down to let go of what you’ve been holding on to,” she says.

Her goal is to find a place where she can speak about her story to people who want to listen or can relate.

“If that means a small club of people or a stage in front of a large crowd, then I will be happy in either position,” Dominique says. “I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me.”

There’s something special about Dominique Way (MIA alumni, 2022).

Fanshawe

of the Year

Dominique Way can’t wait to see where her passion for music takes her.

Dominique has the X factor that is hard to define.

STUDENT PHOTOGRAPHY

Moraine Lake

Tara Armstrong

Fanshawe Student Photography Competition Winner, Nature/Scenic category

LIKEs are not your painkillers

Yu-Chuen Chen

Emerge Media Awards – finalist in the Commercial/Creative Photography category

Burning the Midnight Oil Yu-Chuen Chen

Fanshawe Student Photography Competition Winner, Unclassified category

Winter is coming

Jamal Eldeen Ghouzlan

Professional Photographers of Canada Annual Image Salon – Accepted

D’Addario Mandolin Strings

Trevor McNaughton

Fanshawe Student Photography Competition Winner, Commercial category

Lady of the Lake Alexander Santos Martinez Fanshawe Student Photography Competition Winner, Portrait category