Mohawk College Alumni In Touch Magazine - Fall 2016 by Mohawk College Alumni Association

New Indigenous Space Opens On Campus

alumni.mohawkcollege.ca

FALL 2016

Imagine

that

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THIS ISSUE Hamilton | Stoney Creek Publisher Mohawk College Alumni Association Editor Wendy Makey

New Indigenous Space Opens On Campus

Design and Production Sofa Communicatons

Editorial Advisory Board Wendy Makey – Director, Alumni Relations, Meaghan Drury – Alumni Communications Coordinator, Kelly Dunham – Alumni Services Coordinator, Angelica Meigs – Data Assistant, Lori Morgan – Chief Marketing & Recruitment Officer, Dr. Wayne Poirier – Vice-President Student & Alumni Services Content Coordinator Meaghan Drury InTouch is published semi-annually by the Office of Alumni Relations at Mohawk College. This magazine is circulated to alumni and friends of Mohawk College. Ideas and opinions published or expressed in InTouch do not necessarily reflect those of Mohawk College, The Alumni Association, or the Editor. Publications Mail Agreement Number 400065780 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: Office of Alumni Relations - Mohawk College P.O. Box 2034 Hamilton, ON L8N 3T2 To update your Alumni Record, please contact: Phone: 905.575.2258 alumni@mohawkcollege.ca, the address above or visit mohawkcollege.ca/stayconnected

FEATURE 24 Hoop Dance Mohawk College Celebrates Indigenous Education

Photography Banko Media, Whiteflash Photography, Kelly Dunham, Meaghan Drury, Carmine De Luca, Jane Cooper, Simon Wilson Contributors Sean Coffey, Jay Rob, Meaghan Drury, Ron McKerlie, Marcine Blake, Wendy Makey, Emily Baynes, Kyle Datzkiw, Eric Moyer, Brendan O’Donoghue

FALL 2016

alumni.mohawkcollege.ca

ALUMNI NEWS 12 Using Data To Save Lives In East Africa 17 Strength & Determination: International Graduate – Jane Cooper ‘15 20 Mohawk From The Start

IN EVERY ISSUE 4

Welcoming Words

Alumni Events - Photo Collage

28 Alumni Reunions 31 Awards & Honours

Prefer to receive the InTouch magazine to your inbox instead of your mailbox? Visit mohawkcollege.ca/alumni-magazine

32 Keeping In Touch 34 Calendar of Events

FALL ‘16 | 3

WELCOMING WORDS

Celebrating Our Golden Anniversary Ron McKerlie, President – Mohawk College

It’s the start of something amazing at

Mohawk won’t be resting on our laurels as we mark

your alma mater and you’re invited to

our golden anniversary. Your college continues to grow

join the celebrations.

and we have bold plans for the future. We’re making

Mohawk and Ontario’s other 23

major investments in our three campuses, forging new

colleges will celebrate our 50th anniversary in 2017. We’ll be reflecting

partnerships, launching new programs and introducing new ways for students to build their skills and gain real-world

on our remarkable legacy and looking

experience.

ahead to the next 50 years.

We’re planning a year-long celebration in 2017 to mark

For Mohawk, our legacy is defined by the phenomenal successes and countless contributions of more than 110,000

our golden anniversary. We’ll be hosting special events for alumni, students, faculty, staff, retirees and college partners.

graduates like you who’ve made their mark at work and in

We hope you can join the festivities.

their communities.

We’re also asking alumni to share their memories and

In our first year, 1,900 full-time and part-time students were

favourite moments from Mohawk. You can upload photos

educated and served by 150 faculty and staff. Today, a team

and video and share your stories through our 50th

of 1,100 staff and faculty is transforming a record 30,000

anniversary webpage at www.mohawkcollege.ca/50th.

full-time, part-time and apprenticeship students into future-

As a proud graduate of Mohawk College, you’ve been part

ready graduates. And those transformations are happening

of something amazing. We can’t wait to celebrate our shared

thanks to the incredible support from more than 1,000

legacy in 2017 and continue to watch our students and

business, industry, education and community partners.

graduates do amazing things over the next 50 years.

Province-wide, enrolment is also at an all-time high with

We hope you can join in the celebrations. Look for more

500,000 full-time and part-time students. More than two

details on all our golden anniversary special events in the

million students have graduated from Ontario colleges in

months ahead by turning to page 19, visiting our website or

the past 50 years.

through your online monthly Informed E-Newsletter.

InTouch Magazine - Advertising Rate Card InTouch Alumni magazine is distributed to over 68,000 Mohawk College Alumni through Canada Post. Ad Production Rates are for camera-ready artwork only. Additional charges will apply for any ad creation, alteration or reformatting. All ads are subject to approval of design and content by InTouch Magazine.

FALL ‘16 | 4

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Mohawk College – Office of Alumni Relations PO Box 2034, Hamilton, ON L8N 3T2 T 905-575-2258 | E alumni@mohawkcollege.ca

WELCOMING WORDS

Greetings From The Alumni Council Chair Marcine Blake, ’88 – Recreation Leadership

As the 50th celebrations quickly approach,

athletes, past coaches and teachers. Finding out what my past

beginning this Fall and carrying through to

teammates have been up to by hearing stories about their

December 2017, I’ve been thinking more

families and careers is always a joy. Additionally, exploring the

about my years at Mohawk. Thoughts about

continually evolving campus is something I would recommend

how I’ve stayed connected in many ways,

to any grad who hasn’t been on campus in a while. The

including being a member of the Alumni

changes are amazing!

Council for the past three years. As the Chair of the Alumni Council, it is a pleasure to work with my fellow council members to ensure other grads are able to stay connected to the College and that current students are getting a strong foundation of support that will be carried on after their graduation. As a past varsity athlete, I was highly involved in life on

With the 50th celebrations, you will have many opportunities to come back to campus for things like Alumni games for past athletes, a VIP reception at this Fall’s Open House, and an Alumni Weekend next May, full of activities across campus. Come back to reconnect with old friends and see the new recreation centre and library, as well as visit your old favourites

campus. I have enjoyed coming back to campus over the

like The Arnie and Cellar.

years to see how it has evolved and to reconnect with fellow

I hope to see you soon!

2016-2017 Mohawk College

Alumni Association Advisory Council

Joseph Futino, Director Computer Systems Technology, 1994

Marcine Blake, Chair Recreation Leadership, 1988

Jay Hayward, Director Business Administration, 1999

Linda Rourke, Vice-Chair Broadcasting – Television & Communications Media, 1990

Sera Nicosia, Director Nursing, 1981

Gary Nelson, Past Chair Business Administration, 1985

Lorenzo Somma, Director Small Business & Entrepreneurship, 2013

Lisa DiCesare, Director Law and Security Administration, 1981

Mo Mauri, Director Business, 1977

Kerry Langford, Director Business Administration, 1982

The Alumni Association thanks these individuals for their valued contributions to Alumni activities, committees and meetings on behalf of the Alumni of Mohawk College.

FALL ‘16 | 5

It’s the Start of Something Amazing! Wendy Makey, ‘93 – Director, Alumni Relations Fall of 2016 marks the beginning of Mohawk College’s 50th Anniversary celebrations. In 2017 Mohawk turns 50 years old. Fifty years of amazing history, education and over 110,000 students whose lives have been transformed and are now part of the Mohawk College Alumni Association. We are excited about reconnecting with you and celebrating all things Mohawk in the next year. I would encourage you to keep connected through our communication mediums to keep up-to-date on activities and events taking place to celebrate the 50th Anniversary. You can take a moment to update your information by visiting mohawkcollege.ca/stayconnected This fall we are kicking things off with a number of reunions starting with the past student leaders bbq. If you were a member of the SRC, SUC, MSA, SAC, MOCREW, MCACES, or Alumni Boards/Councils/Committees it’s your opportunity to reconnect and network. In October, we will be hosting reunion games with our past varsity men and women’s soccer, women’s fastball and men’s rugby teams. If you were a member of one of these teams come back and join us for a few hours of fun and festivities. Many of us made memories and connections that will last a lifetime while at Mohawk. I encourage you to reach out to the Alumni Relations Office and see how we can help you reconnect with past classmates and friends. Our Reunion-in-a-Box program is designed to provide you with the tools and support to help you coordinate a reunion. Bring your class together; reminisce, laugh, and talk about the good times. Wouldn’t it be interesting to know what Bill, Jane and Thomas are doing now; how their career has grown and where they are living? We are here to help you make those connections. Please reach out to us at alumni@mohwkcollege.ca or 905-575-2258. We invite you to join us for the College’s Fall Open House on November 5th. Come tour campus to see the incredible things happening at Mohawk and drop in to see us at the Alumni VIP reception to learn more about upcoming 50th Anniversary activities and events. So much has changed and we want to celebrate it with you. Join us in our 50th celebrations – mark my words, it will be amazing!

Reunion-in-a-box

for your next class, team, or club get together

We can help you by contacting grads you may have lost touch with by email, through the In Touch magazine, and the Alumni website & social media channels. We will provide advice on Hamilton area and on campus location options, as well as prizes and swag for your group. Start planning your reunion today! mohawkcollege.ca/alumnireunion

FALL ‘16 | 6

Clockwise from top left: BRUCE PEARSON, Business Recipient; ANNETTE HAMM, Creative Arts & Design Recipient; JUSTIN FYFE, Health Sciences Recipient; STEVEN LENNON, Community Services Recipient; BILL CHISHOLM, Technology Recipient; SUE VATTAY, Mohawk College Employee Recipient; GARY CROWELL, RACHEL DEVINE, Entrepreneur Recipient.

Join us at our 2016 Alumni of Distinction Awards Dinner Thursday, October 27, 5:30 pm Reception & 6:00 pm Dinner at Liuna Station, Hamilton For more information or to register visit mohawkcollege.ca/alumni-of-distinction

ALUMNI NEWS

Alumni Events May 27th, 2016 was a

Congratulations to the top teams:

great day of friendly

Men’s – Ron McKerlie, Luke Baylis, Rob Vachon, Nathan Delguidice

competition among Mohawk Alumni and

Mixed – Graham Stoddard, Cindy

friends. alumni golf classic

O’Brien, Lori MacDonald, Jane Allison Thank you to our sponsors!

• Investors Group • Jostens Rings

• Stokoe Communications

• Mohawk College Alumni Association • Sofa Communications • Schneider Electric

• Mohawk Young Alumni Connection

Tournament Sponsors: Event Sponsor

Specialty Hole Sponsors:

• The Keg Steakhouse + Bar - Hamilton

Breakfast Sponsor

Hole Sponsors:

• Lee & Murphy Family

• Mohawk Students’ Association • Mohawk College Enterprise Registration Gift Sponsor

Photo Sponsor

• Student Transportation of Canada Ltd. • State Farm – Dave McKay

• Dan Clark – Cithara Guitars Inc. • Category 5 Players Cart Sponsor

Refreshment Cart Sponsor

• Tammy Cox Paralegal • Your Latitude

• Etiquette Excellence

• CSN Collision Centres Signage Sponsor

2016 Convocation Week

FALL ‘16 | 8

Print Meda Sponsor

• Meridian

ALUMNI NEWS

International Business Management - Career Speed Networking

Pop Up Hamilton - HMCS Haida

What do you want from your alumni association? We want to hear from you! Look for the Alumni Survey in your inbox this Fall. Find out more and update your email address with us by visiting mohawkcollege.ca/alumni-survey

FALL â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;16 | 9

ALUMNI EVENTS

Spring 2016

Distinguished Fellows The Distinguished Fellow program is by invitation only, with the title conferred and service to the college recognized during Convocation ceremonies.

Peter Vicano — From modest beginnings that included himself, a pick up, and borrowed tools to a major construction company with an impressive list of industrial, commercial and institutional projects, Peter built a company to be proud of. Founded in 1973, Brantford-based Vicano Construction has completed thousands of construction projects throughout Ontario, with individual projects in excess of $50 million. Peter graduated from Mohawk College’s Architectural Technology program in 1972.

Winnie Doyle — A healthcare professional with more than 35 years of experience, Winnie serves as Vice President, Clinical Services and Chief Nursing Executive at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton. Winnie is an advocate and leader when it comes to ensuring that clinical placements are made available to Mohawk students. Without her support, Mohawk would not be able to achieve the high-level clinical experiences required to sustain the college as a leader in health education. Winnie received her Master of Nursing Administration from the University of Toronto in 2000.

Ann McLaughlin — Among her many accomplishments, Ann helped build a local business that caught the eye of Toshiba Industries and resulted in that company establishing itself in Hamilton. Deeply committed to social justice and the creation of a diverse, tolerant and culturally rich community in Hamilton, Ann has served on numerous boards and advisory committees, including Co-Chair for Workforce Planning Hamilton, Mohawk College’s Access Hamilton Employer Engagement Steering Committee, the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce’s HR Committee and as Chairperson of the Turning Point Giving Circle with YWCA Hamilton. Ann has an MBA from McMaster University and an Honours B.A. in Psychology from the University of Guelph.

Richard J. Brennan —- A newspaper reporter for 43 years, Richard covered a variety of stories from his days at the Ingersoll Times weekly newspaper to the Toronto Star where he worked as a National Affairs reporter and most notably as a political reporter with the paper’s Queen’s Park and Ottawa bureaus. It was at Queen’s Park where he earned the nickname the Badger for never letting go of a story. It was a reputation that preceded him to Ottawa where shortly upon his arrival in 2007 he was elected president of the 400-member Parliamentary Press Gallery – the only person to hold that title both provincially and federally. Richard graduated from Mohawk’s Journalism program in 1972.

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ALUMNI EVENTS

2016 Convocation Speakers

“In Their Own Words” During the week of June 14 -17, the Spring Alumni Convocation Speakers offered a little advice and insight to the class of 2016.

Rebecca Kallsen | Public Relations, 2015 “Determination is a power in your heart and in your head that won’t take ‘no’ for an answer. It’s what motivates you to continue through the low-points and achieve your greatest goals.” “Our generation gets unfairly labelled for entitlement, especially in the workplace. Do not accept that. Be humble at work. Arrive with questions rather than answers and provide a willingness to learn. Keep in mind that you don’t know everything, but surprisingly neither do your bosses. The truth is they need you as much as you need them. Learn to balance that relationship”

Lisa McDonald | Child and Youth Worker, 1994 “Be a connector. Tap into other people’s stories. Their pain. Their victories. Their passion. Prop others up and help them to succeed in whatever they do endeavour to do. Paying it forward and being of service to others always aligns you with the right people, the right opportunities, the right circumstances and catapults your own success however you choose to define that for yourselves.”

Derek Doyle | Construction Engineering, 2006/ Small Business Entrepreneurship, 2007 “From this moment on you are all a business. Whether you work for somebody or decide to start your own business or maybe even decide to retire tomorrow, your finances, success and your happiness in this world are controlled by only you. I promise bad things will happen in your life and of course many great things as well. ‘You Inc’, however will choose the attitude with which to handle the situations you face, both good and bad.”

Andrew Norgate | Computer Systems Technology - Software Development, 2012/ Computer Systems Technology - Software Development, 2012 “Give yourself time. Learn, understand and realize that no one expects you to know everything. We all make mistakes. I still make mistakes. But that’s okay, cause this is how we learn and get better with experience.”

Dana Martin | Architectural Technician, 2007/ Health, Wellness and Fitness, 2015 “Never stop challenging yourself and never let your fears limit your experiences in the future… My experiences and interactions here at Mohawk have taught me to push my boundaries and to face my fears head-on. You’re not always going to be the best. You’re not always going to be comfortable. You’re not always going to be right. And that’s okay. Keep evolving. Keep searching and always keep asking the question ‘why?’”

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SPOTLIGHT

Using Data To

Save Lives In East Africa By Sean Coffey

Mohawk grad Justin Fyfe is using technology to help health professionals save lives in Tanzania. Justin, a software architect with Mohawk College’s mHealth and eHealth Development and Innovation Centre (MEDIC), is the developer and creator behind OpenIZ.org, a new software tool that makes it easier for healthcare professionals to manage immunization records. A Mohawk College graduate with a diploma in software engineering, Justin has leveraged his education into a meaningful career where he develops open source, interoperable solutions for governments and companies from around the world. In 2015, Justin and the team from MEDIC began work on the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation-funded Better Immunization Data pilot project to help create a healthcare database for families in Tanzania. He returned to Tanzania in April 2016 - this time to partner on a project with the Tanzanian Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Intrahealth International, and international non-profit PATH- to fully implement the open immunization platform that he designed. OpenIZ is a scalable platform that allows regions across the globe to perform, forecast and track immunizations from cradle to grave. It allows healthcare providers to move beyond paper based solutions, providing real time information about immunizations, giving healthcare officials a flexible way to review and use health information to forecast scheduled immunizations, understand immunization patterns and gaps, and place precise orders of vaccine stocks. It’s a challenging project. The registry has to work with paper records that move by motorbike courier between remote villages, millions of vaccination cards that remain with the parents of children, migrations and emergencies, and also manage stocks of medical supplies.

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SPOTLIGHT

Where there is electricity and large numbers of

While that may sound like a large number, it’s just the tip of

patients -- in the cities, or district health centres --

the iceberg of what the software is capable of doing. Justin

vaccinations can be registered with a computer or

says the platform can support up to 80 other countries, and

tablet. In remote areas, with no or only erratic electrical

there are plans to implement it within the next few years in

supply, registration can be done with ‘bubble paper.’

Kenya and Philippines.

Vaccination and other health information is recorded as filled-in circles on standard forms, and the data is captured via scans with mobile phones or simple devices.

Closer to home, Justin has developed software tools such as the Shared Health Record (SHR), Audit Repository (AR) and Client Registry (CR) reference implementations that were used to develop eHealth Ontario’s Innovation Lab in

All the data must converge, says Fyfe, in a way that

2016. The online Innovation Lab is fostering EHR innovation

children can be included and followed accurately in the

across Ontario by allowing developers to verify the usability

national immunization registry, and critical data can flow

of new products using the structure and composition of

back to front-line workers and facilities to keep vaccines

the EHR. The innovation lab offers an environment for both

on schedule and coverage complete.

current and prospective developers to innovate, invest,

“Vaccination is not immunization,” says Justin. “Vaccines are a medicine. They have to be timed right, given in a proper sequence, and follow a schedule to be effective.” The goal in Tanzania is to use the platform Justin built to track vaccination schedules for up to 50 million people.

and embark on new entrepreneurial ventures that will help transform patient care in the province. This October 27, 2016, Justin will be honoured with an Alumni of Distinction Award in the Health Sciences category. Find out more about the seven other recipients on pages 14 & 15 or by visiting mohawkcollege.ca/alumni-of-distinction

LEARNING FOR LIFE • Considering a new credential or graduate certificate? • Looking to upgrade or earn professional development credits? • Want to learn something new? Let Mohawk Continuing Education and Online Learning get you on track. Learn more at ce.mohawkcollege.ca or email ceweb@mohawkcollege.ca

FALL ‘16 | 13

L-R: Justin Fyfe, Steven Lennon, Sue Vattay, Gary Crowell, Annette Hamm, Bill Chisholm, Bruce Pearson, Rachel Devine

2016 Alumni of Distinction

Business Recipient:

Bruce Pearson | Business Administration, 1971

Retired President/Co-Founder, Pearson-Dunn Insurance and Financial Services Inc.

Community Services Recipient:

Steven Lennon | Law & Security - Private Security, 1995

Dignitary Protection and Investigations Section, Protection Specialist/Constable, Ontario Provincial Police

Creative Arts & Design Recipient:

Annette Hamm | Broadcast Journalism, 1986

News Anchor, CHCH

Entrepreneur Recipient:

Rachel Devine | General Arts & Science, 2002 and Aesthetics/Nail Technician/Applied Cosmetics, 2003

Owner, Aesthetics by Rachel/ Founder, R Devine Skin Care

Health Sciences Recipient:

Justin Fyfe | Computer Science Technology - Software Engineer, 2007

Software Architect, Mohawk College

Technology Recipient:

Bill Chisholm | Chemical Engineering Technology, 1980

President & CEO, Samuel, Son & Co. Limited

Mohawk College Employee Recipient: Sue Vattay | Recreation Leadership, 1982

Professor, Faculty of Human Services â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Mohawk College

Affinity Recipient:

Gary Crowell | Community Planning & Development, 1970

Retired Chief of Police, Halton Regional Police Services

FALL â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;16 | 14

What would you tell yourself if you could go back to your first day of college? Don’t be afraid of what you think you can’t do. – Annette Hamm Be a craftsman in everything you do. Never take shortcuts and always do things properly. Whether it is a seemingly meaningless assignment, or paper, put in the extra time to learn the right way to do something. Not only will it give you more pride in your work, but the collateral benefits of the experience will pay in ways you cannot yet imagine. I am always amazed to find that some nugget of information which seemed useless at the time for the task at hand, helped me on some unrelated task. – Justin Fyfe It’s only three years… Work hard, be curious, have fun! – Bill Chisholm I would tell myself to get involved and enjoy the total college experience. While there were not the numerous activities and opportunities that there are today, I believe there were chances to for me to participate more than I did. – Gary Cowell

What is one memory or piece of advice you have from your Mohawk days that has stuck with you? The one memory is from one of our third year instructors. As we were finishing our time and looking forward to graduation, the quote was “always keep learning.” Yes we then thought we were finished, but how right he was. I appreciated that then and now. – Bruce Pearson Get involved with the direction of your career and take advantage of the opportunities that present themselves. Never be afraid to try something new. Everyone else is just as unsure as you are. – Steven Lennon I was lucky to be in school the year that Lisa Kadet taught skin care. She was a very thorough, strict teacher and was so knowledgeable about everything related to skin care. She had so much experience in the industry, and use to give us tips and tricks for how to make it out in the professional world. I have remembered and implemented so many of the tidbits of advice that she gave me. I can definitely credit her for my passion in skin care and for part of my success. – Rachel Devine Establish a strong network of friends for support. I was fortunate that the Recreation Leadership Program encouraged strong social connections both within class group work and practical experiential learning. I developed a great circle of friends and I can honestly say that I have kept in touch with many of them over all these years. – Sue Vattay

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FALL ‘16 | 15

YOUR

Health and Wellness Starts Here! Benefits of a community membership include: Your choice of 20+ FREE fitness classes, including Yoga, Cycle Fit, Zumba and more… Access to state-of-the-art fitness centre with indoor running track and freedom climber Enjoy outdoor basketball and beach volleyball courts Massage therapy appointments, at reasonable rates Complimentary Early Bird and evening parking

Get Started Today! Whether you’re looking to burn calories in a cycle class, hire a personal trainer, de-stress with yoga, or climb a wall, we’ve got you covered. Stop by for a tour, or contact us at dbarc@mohawkcollege.ca

Annual Alumni Membership Fee

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Mohawk College | 135 Fennell Ave West, Hamilton, ON L9C 1E9 | 905-575-2744

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Strength & Determination

International

Profile:

Jane Cooper By Meaghan Drury ‘12

In 2012, Jane Cooper was looking for a change in her life. After battling cancer in 2010, and then losing her husband in 2012 to cancer, Jane realized that she should grab hold of life with both hands. Using the strength and determination that had seen her through, she decided it was time to follow one of her dreams. Growing up in England, there had always been something about Canada that had intrigued her. So with plans to move to Canada, a Canadian education seemed like a good place to start a new chapter in her life. After checking out many colleges and campuses, the tour of Mohawk is what convinced her, this was the place she belonged, “everyone was so welcoming and friendly.” It was at Mohawk, that she gained a solid education in the Business program. By the time she graduated in 2015 she had worked on many projects, such as being involved in running a charity comedy night in The Arnie and selling products for charity. These experiences prepared her for life after college.

Since graduation, Jane has worked hard and often, at one point holding-down four part-time jobs as a bartender, administration assistant, supervisor and logistics manager. It paid off when she recently secured a full-time position as the Events Services and Security Manager for FirstOntario Centre and Hamilton Place, in downtown Hamilton. Settling into her career, she shares, “I love every minute of my job and a highlight was getting to work on the Paul McCartney concert (he is such a legend to me).” Canada is quickly becoming her home. And recently she’s applied for permanent residency. Her advice to anyone considering following in her steps, is without hesitation, “100% do it! You have nothing to lose even if you decide Canada is not for you (which in my opinion won’t happen), you will have a fabulous adventure and the college experience for me although tough, I would not have changed it, you meet so many people from so many cultures and ways of life, it is unforgettable.”

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CELEBRATE MOHAWK’S 50THANNIVERSARY

Alumni Events Join Mohawk alumni, friends, faculty and staff at these upcoming events. For updates, news and more information about Mohawk’s 50th anniversary celebration, visit mohawkcollege.ca/50

2016 OCT 15-16

Mountaineer Weekend

Alumni Games followed by current varsity games • October 15 – Soccer • October 16 – Rugby and Softball

NOV 5

2017 JAN 28

APR 1

Mountaineer Day

Alumni Games followed by current Varsity Games • Basketball

Mountaineer Hall of Fame

Nominations close October 31, 2016. Email your nomination to bernetta.scime@ mohawkcollege.ca

Remember when...

FEB 23-25

Open House

Alumni VIP Reception in The Arnie at Fennell campus

Men’s Provincial Volleyball Championships Alumni Reception before game

MAY 26-27

Alumni Weekend

• May 26 – Alumni Golf Classic, 9 & Dine • May 27 – Tours and reunions, popup dinner in The Arnie followed by after-party, drinks and dancing.

MAY 26-27

1960

1971-76

1984

Forming the first College Alumni Association: five people from Hamilton’s Institute of Technology (HIT), with the help of faculty advisor, Sam Mitminger, struck a constitution. HIT later became Mohawk College.

Former HIT grads seek to stay connected to their alma mater by forming an association, with the first president, Al Arnold — namesake of The Arnie.

A report to Mohawk’s Board of Governors states: “...the seeds have been sown for the creation of the finest Alumni Association in the Ontario Community College System at Mohawk College.”

SHARE YOUR

MOHAWK MEMORIES Mohawk has an amazing story to tell for our 50th anniversary. Share your memories at

mohawkcollege.ca/50

1996

2012

2014

The Alumni of Distinction Awards are established to coincide with the Province’s creation of the annual Premier’s Awards.

Alumni’s blog –— ABC: Alumni Blog Connection — is created to give grads the opportunity to share their own stories through a new platform. As of 2016, more than 40 grads have contributed to the blog.

The Association welcomes its 100,000th graduate.

Mohawk’s Alumni Department is excited to continue to connect with our grads over the next 50 years!

Mohawk

From The Start By Meaghan Drury ’12

In 1965 a group of individuals from across the province were asked to join a committee to look at introducing a community college system in Ontario. From the start the vision was clear, according to Norman Sisco, Director of the Ontario Department of Education’s Applied Arts and Technology Branch during its formative years, as published in a 1980 report. • “Firstly, the Ontario college system was to be vocational,” it was to meet the needs of students who were not interested or did not fit into a university program. • “Secondly, the college system was to be student-oriented,” with an intention of meeting the interests and needs of a broad spectrum of students. • “Thirdly, in order to better achieve these objectives and to prevent the college system from becoming rigid, the system of governance would be decentralized… and make use of as many lay people as possible.” This placed value on the needs of local industry to guide the training of students, “to maintain a close association with the working world and to assure that programs would not become outdated and redundant, an advisory committee reporting to the Board of Governors was to be appointed for each program.” With this clear mission in place, only two years later 19 colleges across the province would become operational. On May 12, 1967, Mohawk held the first graduation ceremony for any college province-wide. The graduates, originally students of Hamilton’s Institute of Technology (HIT), had gone through a transition throughout their final year and voted to be graduates of

FALL ‘16 | 20

Mohawk College. The transition was not easy at first, with many changes for HIT’s students, but by the end of the school year they had embraced their new alma mater, even creating a school song.

School Song As appeared in Hamilton Institute of Technology 1967 Yearbook

Similar to today, when first opening its doors, the College served to meet the needs of the community. As presented to the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce members in 1967, J.W. Hezleton the Principal of Mohawk College at the time was quoted in The Hamilton Spectator saying, “Just tell us what new courses you want and what’s wrong with the courses we have and watch us act.” Although the College building, located on the Hamilton Mountain, was plagued with delays from the start eventually forcing officials to rent out buildings across the city for the first year of operation, administrators were determined to carry on providing a quality education to those who sought it. Mohawk’s opening was celebrated by Hamilton’s mayor, Victor Copps, as “the most important development in the city in the past half-century.” Were you part of the first graduating classes of Mohawk? Want to share your memories of the early years of life on campus? Visit mohawkcollege.ca/50th

In the halls of Mohawk College Steadfastly our sights we raise Testing truths, exploring knowledge Heartened by each conquered phase. CHORUS: Gathered we with purpose certain Strengthened by these words we sing From the crest of Mohawk’s mountain Let our College anthem ring. When from here our pathways lead us In our hearts where’er we roam Linger thoughts of friendships precious And of this our other home.

WHY CHOOSE MCE? • MCE offers fully customized training to suit your organization’s needs • MCE offers training in the following areas: leadership, technology and health & community services • We can come to you! MCE will deliver training at any location of your choice across Ontario, including our office location at Mohawk College’s Stoney Creek Campus

• MCE has experience serving clients in all sectors; both publicly and privately owned • MCE can assist clients with COJG applications to help fund their training costs • MCE’s Future Ready Leadership program has been recognized nationally, and has proudly graduated over 600 Future Ready Leaders

“The positive effects of the Future Ready Leadership Program were immediately apparent: Increased confidence and a greater comfort in their skin when communicating on a variety of issues.” - Robin Dunn, Chief Administrative Officer, Township of Oro-Medonte

Visit mcecor.com to learn more T: 905.575.2534 TF: 1.877.269.1422 E: info@mcecor.com

FALL ‘16 | 21

AROUND CAMPUS

Increasing Local Food

Procurement at Ontario Colleges By Emily Baynes, ‘11

Mohawk College is creating a solution. With the support of a $100,000 matching grant from the Greenbelt Fund and the Ontario Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Mohawk has launched a research project that aims to increase the amount of Ontario food served at Ontario colleges. “Mohawk College’s leadership in local food will create a model that can be replicated across the province,” said Burkhard Mausberg, CEO of the Greenbelt Fund. “The public sector spends $745 million on food each year, and we are investing to make sure more of that money is spent on food grown and made in Ontario.” What are you having for lunch today? Ontario’s 24 colleges are surrounded by 12.7 million acres of productive agricultural lands. However, these locally grown and processed foods don’t often make it onto the plates of Ontario’s 224,000 students and staff through on-campus foodservices. In fact, much of the food served at Ontario colleges is either imported or the amount of local content is not traceable. This means that food often travels thousands of miles before it’s served. “This presents an opportunity to create positive change,” says Alan Griffiths, Manager of the Mohawk College Sustainability Office. “Finding ways to increase the amount of Ontario-grown food at colleges across the province would benefit our regional economy and support healthy students while enhancing the sustainability of college foodservices operations.” Many Ontario colleges are embracing sustainability as an educational and operational priority, but few institutions have been able to effectively address the environmental impact of their foodservices operations. Even with progress being made in other areas, food production remains one of the greatest contributors to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, with the global food system accounting for up to one-third of all human-caused GHG emissions. “For every kilometre our food travels, there are associated greenhouse gas emissions. If the majority of food sold on campus is imported, that means our foodservices operations contribute thousands of tonnes of carbon emissions annually,” Alan explains. “By refocusing on locally grown and locally processed foods in college cafeterias, we can drastically reduce this impact.”

FALL ‘16 | 22

Led by the Mohawk College Sustainability Office, the project team consists of Mohawk staff and students, and is guided by an advisory committee of industry experts and college partners. The team will begin with a research phase that will engage stakeholders at all stages of the local food supply chain to identify and understand current barriers to local food procurement at Ontario colleges. To address the barriers identified in the research phase, Mohawk will work closely with its own on-campus foodservice providers to launch a local food procurement pilot project. In 2017, Mohawk’s pilot project results will inform the implementation of two more pilot projects at two additional colleges in Ontario. These pilot projects will test the solutions and best practices in local food procurement established at Mohawk. “Our goal is to build a local food procurement model for all 24 Ontario colleges. This model will be scalable and transferable so every college in Ontario can refocus on serving, advertising and celebrating Ontario food,” explains Alan. “With the development and implementation of Mohawk’s Environmental Management Plan, the College is already widely recognized as a leader in sustainability,” says Alan. “This project represents an important opportunity to collaborate with our peer institutions, local food providers and community partners to develop custom solutions that will make all colleges in Ontario more sustainable.” To stay up to date on progress and important project milestones, subscribe to the project newsletter at bit.ly/localfoodmohawk.

A Better

Community Day By Kyle Datzkiw ’16 - President, Mohawk Students’ Association Something we take pride in here at the Mohawk Students’ Association is making the time to be engaged in our community and positively contribute to the betterment of Hamilton. At the heart of this, A Better Community Day, or ABCD for short, was born. This event held on April 3rd, 2016, brought together some diverse non-profit partners that address various social issues in Hamilton: Food4Kids, CitySchool and the Escarpment Project as well as volunteer partners McMaster Students Union, Redeemer University College Student Senate and the Hamilton Hive. Our mission statement for the event is simple and that is to “collaborate as one community to make tomorrow’s Hamilton better than today’s”. We believe we delivered on this mission statement, with over 100 volunteers and approximately $6,500 donated to Hamilton-based charities. The money was a donation from the MSA and the volunteers were able to register online prior to the event. On the day of, they came to rally in the Arnie that included a free lunch donated by Pizza Pizza and a free t-shirt donated by Mercury Food Services. They were then sent on their way to three different areas to volunteer, either with Food 4 Kids, the Escarpment Project or CitySchool. As the first year for what will become an annual event for us here at the MSA, we were thrilled with the success we experienced. We also know and understand that there is room to grow and improve with this upcoming year’s event and years moving forward. We wish to see as many people in the community that are able to be involved in this initiative join and engage as we prepare for this year’s event. If there is a way yourself or your organization is able to be involved in A Better Community Day, please reach out to us at the Mohawk Students’ Association by visiting www.mohawkstudents.ca

2017 MOUNTAINEER Hall of Fame

Nominations NOW OPEN Nomination Deadline: October 31st, 2016 Applications to: Mohawk College Athletics c/o Hall of Fame Selection Committee 135 Fennell Ave West, Hamilton, ON L9C 1E9 Bernetta.scime@mohawkcollege.ca For more mo information visit: mohawkcollege.ca/athletics /mountaineer-hall-fame

FEATURE STORY

Mohawk College Celebrates

Indigenous Education

HOOP DANCE By Jay Robb

During the Hoop Dance opening ceremony, Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne was presented with a Wampum Belt made by Ron McLester, Mohawkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s former Director of Aboriginal Initiatives. Ron played a key role in creating an outdoor Indigenous gathering space that is the first among Ontario colleges and universities.

FALL â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;16 | 24

FEATURE STORY

building together, a place of opportunity for everyone.” The Mohawk Students’ Association helped cover the costs of creating the outdoor gathering space. “The MSA was proud to support this project and we were honoured to help make history at Mohawk,” said MSA President Kyle Datzkiw ‘16. “Enhancing the college experience for all students is our vision. We want all students to feel welcome and supported from the first moment they arrive on campus. Hoop Dance will do exactly that for Indigenous students.” The Spirit Vision Drummers and Dancers led the procession to the Hoop Dance opening ceremonies. They also perform at the start of every Mohawk College Convocation.

Mohawk is home to the first outdoor Indigenous gathering space at any college or university in Ontario. Hoop Dance at the Fennell campus opened in June. The space, located behind the Harold Cummings Library, will be used by students, faculty, staff and community partners for outdoor classes, cultural presentations and traditional ceremonies. “Mohawk is committed to supporting Indigenous education and celebrating cultural traditions,” President Ron McKerlie said during the official opening ceremony. “Hoop Dance is one of the ways we’re weaving Indigenous knowledge and culture into the fabric of our college. We’ve created a special place where students, staff and college partners can teach, learn, gather and share.”

Constructed of yellow Alaskan cedar pillars and steel hoops, Hoop Dance is surrounded by a traditional Three Sisters garden of corn, beans and squash. Hoop Dance is part of Mohawk’s commitment to serve as a leader in Indigenous education in Ontario. Mohawk currently educates and serves more than 400 Aboriginal students and is a signatory institution to the Indigenous Education Protocol for Colleges and Institutes developed by Colleges and Institutes Canada. Mohawk is also building the region’s first collaborative Indigenous Education Plan in partnership with Six Nations Polytechnic, the Metis Nation of Ontario, the Mississauga of the New Credit, Grand River Employment and Training, the Grand River Post-Secondary Education Office, Sheridan College, McMaster University, the University of Guelph and Wilfred Laurier University.

Joining the ceremony was Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne. “Mohawk College’s new Hoop Dance will be an important gathering place for students to learn and reflect,” said Premier Wynne, who was joined by Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport the Hon. Eleanor McMahon, Ted McMeekin, Member of Provincial Parliament for AncasterDundas-Flamborough-Westdale and Filomena Tassi, Member of Parliament for Hamilton West – Ancaster – Dundas. “It will also be a living monument to the culture, traditions and knowledge of Ontario’s Indigenous communities,” said the Premier. “It is a hopeful symbol of the province we are

Joining the Hoop Dance opening ceremony was Rebecca Jamieson, President and CEO of Six Nations Polytechnic and Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne. Six Nations Polytechnic is a long-standing and valued education partner with Mohawk College.

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GET INVOLVED IN MOHAWKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TRANSFORMATION As a Mohawk grad, you know first-hand that student success is our mission and passion. We are continually exploring new ways to enrich the student experience. Partnership & Innovation Centre

Stoney Creek Connections

Institute for Applied Health Sciences at McMaster

Partnership & Innovation Campaign

Stoney Creek Connections Campaign

The new Mohawk College Partnership & Innovation Centre at Fennell campus will be a 90,000 square foot facility dedicated entirely to enhancing the student experience. Students will benefit from greater access to technologically advanced leaning environments under one roof.

This 12,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art facility is one of a kind in North America. Home to multiple trades programs, it is a flexible, collaborative learning environment, where students will train, service, monitor and repair aspects of the building. Classes are scheduled to begin January 2017.

Institute for Applied Health Sciences at McMaster Campaign Mohawk prepares students at the Institute for Applied Health Sciences in outstanding facilities including human anatomy and simulation labs, libraries and computer and digital labs. Students combine in-class learning with placements for enhanced, real-world experience.

Join us as we transform the lives of our students through the gift of education. Charitable Registration No: 11924 5744 RR0001

Please contact us at: T: 905-575-2186 E: foundation@mohawkcollege.ca W: mohawkcollege.ca/foundation Twitter: @MOHAWKFDN

Makes College Dream Accessible By Jim Vanderveken, M. Ed – Dean, Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies confidence to pursue her dream of a college education. Rebecca plans to enrol at Mohawk. About half her classmates at CitySchool are making the same plans.

Rebecca proves that opening our doors in north Hamilton was a smart move by Mohawk College. Rebecca is a full-time mom in her early 20s. She graduated from high school years ago and wanted to continue her education. Yet Rebecca didn’t know if she could make the grade. She didn’t know if she could juggle family and school. And she didn’t know if she’d find Mohawk welcoming or overwhelming. Rebecca found the answers at CitySchool by Mohawk. She completed her first college course last month in a renovated classroom at the Eva Rothwell Centre on Wentworth Street North. The course is the same as the one we offer at our Fennell campus on the west Mountain. The assignments, projects and tests are the same. The academic standards are set just as high. The only difference is that CitySchool courses are tuition-free. Mohawk launched CitySchool to solve a problem. We’ve met and heard from many people like Rebecca. They dream about going to college but don’t know where to begin. They worry that they won’t have what it takes to complete their journey. They don’t want to embarrass themselves or disappoint their family. Mohawk appears to be a world away and beyond their reach.

This is great news for Rebecca, her family and our entire community. After all, Hamilton’s most valuable resource is our people. A highly skilled, future-ready workforce is our greatest competitive advantage. CitySchool by Mohawk unlocks a wealth of potential by making a college education readily accessible to everyone in our community. The Eva Rothwell Centre is home to our first CitySchool. We plan to open five more basecamps across Hamilton over the next three years. Mohawk will not arrive unannounced in a neighbourhood. We won’t presume to know what’s best. Instead, we’ll work closely with our community partners to deliver courses and workshops that best meet the needs of our neighbours. Strengthening collaborations and partnerships is a strategic priority for Mohawk. It’s also the approach we’re taking as we roll out CitySchool. We’ll also bring with us a bias for action. Once we’re welcomed into a neighbourhood and we’ve learned what people want, Mohawk will move quickly to get CitySchool up and running. We don’t want anyone putting their dreams of a college education on indefinite hold.

If Mohawk is the summit, CitySchool is base camp. CitySchool makes the trek easier by bringing our college into the community and making it risk-free. Our faculty and staff serve as guides and share a passion for helping people reach the summit.

To set up more basecamps, we’ll need more communitybuilders like Doug and June Barber who believe in the power of education to transform lives. The Barbers’ generous support and founding gift to CitySchool brought Mohawk College to an entire north Hamilton neighbourhood. With more support, we can help more people like Rebecca start their journey, achieve their dreams and put their skills to work.

CitySchool is a first for Hamilton and a first in Ontario. No other college in the province is taking community engagement to this level. While CitySchool is a significant investment for Mohawk, we believe people like Rebecca are well worth the investment.

Jim Vanderveken serves as Dean of Interdisciplinary Studies at Mohawk College and leads a team that is committed to making a college education accessible to all Hamiltonians. Jim can be reached at jim.vanderveken@mohawkcollege.ca.

Rebecca successfully completed her course. She earned much more than her first college credit. She also gained the

This article originally appeared in The Hamilton Spectator on June 3, 2016.

FALL ‘16 | 27

ALUMNI REUNIONS

30 Year Reunion For Sue & Crew By Brendan O’Donoghue ‘86

directors, teachers as well as our parents and friends who helped moved us on co-op terms and helped to move us on with our lives …eventually. Life ain’t always smooth but it’s all ours. The majority of us have developed in the traditional mechanical engineering areas such as the making of steel, manufacturing of auto parts and plastics to automation, refrigeration, agricultural equipment, cranes and various sales and project management roles. Several people have also combined our training with new areas of interest and become leaders in the fields of 3D animation, healthcare, physiotherapy, teaching, and real estate, to name just a few. I heard more than a few college stories that I never knew before and I will just keep them to myself, as you never know who might be reading this article and was the owner of that house you once rented, or what the Canada / US Border Patrol people might ask. Take away observations, lessons learned and advice overheard at this reunion;

Photo: Front L to R – Steve Cuthbert, Tom Seixas, Steve Tancoo, Kevin Dimond, Tom Shewfelt, Paul Hoggarth, Sue Piling, Karmjit Matharu Back L to R – Rick Swierkosz, Andrew Lee, Jim O’Halloran, Brendan O’Donoghue, John Wyskeil, Greg McAlpine, Neil Rowland, Rob Frith Missing from Photo – Clay Spong, John Keegan, Mike Lamb, Peter Frame, Rob Gerritsen

The 1986 Mechanical Engineering Technology class held a 30 year reunion on Saturday July 9th, 2016 at a downtown Hamilton patio bar. About 1/3 of the graduating class of approximately 60 people were able to make it. Most of us are still living and working in the Hamilton area, and all except for one is still living in southwestern Ontario. The furthest travelers came in from Windsor and Parry Sound. It was definitely a bit of a time warp type experience seeing the various class characters arrive, many heavier and all those people still with hair, a little or a lot greyer. Keep in mind that the last time we were all together was at our 1986 Mohawk graduation and big hair do’s and mullet cuts were all the rage. Of course there are exceptions to every rule, as a few people hardly changed much at all and others looked like they stepped out of a magazine. Lucky for us someone brought along a yearbook which was a great reference point too. Our course was a 3 year Co-op program and Mohawk was the only college or university in Canada that had an operating Computer-Aided Design (CAD) course. Sue was the only girl in our class, and she is also an avid sailor, thus the title of this article. In reflection it was generally agreed that the Mohawk experience has served us all pretty well in that our training has certainly helped us build what many mothers would call decent, respectable lives. Thank you to the Mohawk program

FALL ‘16 | 28

• It’s good to show up. It’s good to laugh often. • Health is very, very important. • We have first world problems – e.g. Most of us can benefit from eating less and exercising more. • Be thankful for what we have now, as no situation is permanent. • Keep trying. Somehow, everyday make your world a little better, and it will be better …eventually. • Believe in yourself ...always – and others can believe in you too. Mentors can really help us too. • Keep innovating. The greatest ‘things’ of our times started out as ideas – and ideas start out free. • Embrace technology but your phone is no substitute for the real person. Question – So what’s next? Answer – Get in touch with classmates we missed in May 2017 at the 50th Anniversary of Mohawk.

ALUMNI REUNIONS

4 Mohawk Alumni

Help Canada Wolverines to Victory Over Jamaica Four Mohawk Alumni, pictured left to right, Duncan Earl, Eric Moyer, Erick Alvarado and Billy Gemmell, recently competed in an international Rugby League game for the Canada Wolverines on July 16th 2016. The Wolverines were able to defeat the Jamaican national side with a final score of 38-2. The game is the first of three taking place for the title of the Americas Championship.

Duncal Earl, a 2016 Electrical Engineering graduate, played his first game for the Wolverines and had a very good showing both offensively and defensively. The 6’4 lock, who has been impressing domestically, has been putting in a lot of work in the gym and field, which has been showing off this year tremendously culminating in his first international cap. During his time at Mohawk, Duncan’s dedication enabled him to achieve an OCAA All-Star award and an athlete of the week award, capping off a successful run as a Mountaineer.

Eric Moyer, a 2013 General Arts and Science graduate, has played four seasons with the Wolverines. He notes, that Mohawk College helped him develop the skills needed to succeed on and off the rugby pitch. “The challenging nature of school combined with all the resources available at Mohawk, really helped build myself up to become a better athlete and a better person.” During his time as a Mountaineer Eric received two OCAA All-Star awards, MVP and a Coaches award. Erick Alvarado, a 2016 Construction Engineering graduate, has been a big up and coming addition to the

Wolverines roster. Adding caps in 2014, 2015 and 2016. Eric, along with Gemmell were both big parts of the young Wolverines who defeated England at last year’s Commonwealth Games. He has also trained with Gemmell with the professional u19 English side, the Huddersfield Giants, in which they both gained experience and found success. Erick caps off a very successful career as a Mountaineer.

Billy Gemmell, a 2015 Educational Support graduate, has made a big splash with the Wolverines since joining in 2014. Also adding caps in 2015 and 2016, he was involved in the World Cup Qualifying team who played in Florida last year. In addition to the young Wolverines, Billy has been very active in sport giving back as a coach where he can. During his time as a Mountaineer, Billy received two OCAA All-Star awards, Rookie of The Year 2014 and MVP 2015. The next game for the Wolverines in the Americas Championship is verses the USA Hawks on September 24th 2016. They will also be playing in Toronto at Lamport Stadium on October 15th, 2016 against the South Wales Scorpions. Find out more about the Wolverines at canadarugbyleague.com or connect with them on Twitter @CanadaRL

FALL ‘16 | 29

The Alumni@Work program seeks to reach out to thank local businesses and The Alumni@Work program seeks to reach and out being to thank businesses community organizations for hiring Mohawk graduates proud local Mohawk community organizations for hiring Mohawk graduates and being proud Moh supporters.

supporters.

The Alumni Alumni@Work to reach outstaff to and thank localbring businesses and The Relationsprogram offce andseeks applicable Mohawk faculty refreshments community organizations for hiring Mohawk graduates and being proud Mohawk andThe snacks for anRelations hour of connecting with graduates, at their place ofand work. Alumni offce and applicable Mohawk staff faculty bring refreshm supporters.

and snacks for an hour of connecting with graduates, at their place of work.

Do you employ 10 or more Mohawk College grads? The Alumni Relations offce and applicable Mohawk staff and faculty bring refreshments AreDo youyou a proud supporter Mohawk College? 10 orofmore College grads? and snacks for anemploy hour of connecting with Mohawk graduates, at their place of work. Curious about what’s going on at Mohawk? Are you a proud supporter of Mohawk College? Want toemploy treat your employees to a break withgrads? Do you 10 or more Mohawk College Curious about what’s going on at Mohawk? This logo appears refreshments & snacks? Are you a proud supporter of Mohawk College? to below resolution? Want to treat your employees to a break with Curious about what’s going on at Mohawk? refreshments & snacks? to a break with Contact us Alumni@Work Want toabout treat the your employees coffee break today! refreshments & snacks? alumni@mohawkcollege.ca or Contact us about the Alumni@Work 905-575-2258 Contact us about Alumni@Work coffee breakthe today! coffee break today! alumni@mohawkcollege.ca or alumni@mohawkcollege.ca or 905-575-2258 905-575-2258

In honour of the 50th Anniversary of Mohawk, join us by supporting our students through donations to bursaries and scholarships. More details in late Fall 2016. mohawkcollege.ca/50

FALL ‘16 | 30

Awards & Honours Original Alumni blogger and teaenthusiast, Lu Ann Pannunzio ’12 has been working as a freelance writer and on her own blog, since graduating from the Advertising program in 2012. Recently she was offered an opportunity she couldn’t pass up, the chance to write and have published her own book on inspiration and slowing down to observe life’s many moments. Teaspiration: Inspirational Words for Tea Lovers will be released November 8, 2016 and is available for pre-order on amazon.

Congratulations to Mohawk Public Relations grad, Alley Stennett, on her Top 30 Under 30 award by PR in Canada. The annual award is to recognize young communications professionals from across Canada. Alley and fellow Mohawk grad, Rebecca Kallsen founded a public relations agency, Kallsen & Stennett Communications, in downtown Hamilton upon graduating in 2015.

College Awards Mohawk College has been selected to receive one of 21 grants from the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Canada’s ‘Go Wild’ Community Grants, presented by Telus. Mohawk College is creating a dedicated pollinatorfriendly rooftop garden to encourage a healthy pollinator population. Mohawk was selected from more than 255 applicants and is receiving $6,000 to support the Pollinator Paradise project.

Congratulations to 2011 Alumni of Distinction, Ryan Barichello ‘04 on receiving the 2015 Stoney Creek Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year Award, for his company Linxsmart.

The Pollinator Paradise will be located on the rooftop patio of the Learning Exchange (H-Wing), updating the existing partial green roof with a variety of plants that attract bees, butterflies and other pollinators native to Ontario.

FALL ‘16 | 31

hello

KEEPING Peter Dochstader | Business Administration, 1967 Happily retired, still farm some, busy with grandchildren, working out at the gym and much more! Miss my fellow Business grads and hope to see you next year!

Brian Duncombe | Mechanical Engineering Technician - Fluid Power, 1967 George M. Fingland | Textiles Engineering

Technology, 1972

I have been retired from Dupont Canada Inc. for the last 12 years. My wife and I (also a Mohawk grad in Textiles) are doing a lot of travelling and my wife is doing a lot of Genealogy research. My wife was the former Joyce Charlotte Ferguson.

Victoria N. Hadden | Communication Arts, 1974 Maureen Shea | Data Processing, 1974

divisions of Rogers. Now enjoying a busy retirement with my wife and two dogs. Work days have been replaced with vacation days. Life is good!

Paul Logan | Child Care Worker, 1980 After 8.5 years of being a professor in the CYW program at Humber College, I’ve semi-retired to beautiful Victoria, BC.

Annette Van Tyghem | Computer Systems Technology, 1983 My daughter, a Brock graduate, is attending Mohawk to expand in her area of interest and is having a great experience. My son will be graduating Guelph University at the end of the year. I am a very proud mother.

Michael J. Pollington | Television Broadcasting, 1983 Pollington Productions is celebrating 20 years in business this year, after operating in Ottawa for 10 years we have relocated to St. Catharines.

Lorie J. Howells | Data

Processing, 1984

Robert J. Pocius | Industrial Engineering Technology, 1985

Roger Kellam | Finance, 1975

After graduating from Mohawk, I went into Sales for a few big packaging companies and then decided to start my own business in 1997. This morphed into TekPak Solutions- making the World’s First Omni-degradable plastic packaging. It quickly reverts to its original elements of Water, CO 2 and Organic Biomass, all beneficial to plant growth. We sell these products all over the world now. A lot of my success is due to my training at Mohawk College.

Retired October 2014 after 39 years with BMO (Bank of Montreal). Living in Blenheim, ON for the past 29 years with my wife Carol and enjoying retirement.

Arlene Young | Transportation Planning Technology, 1986

Happily retired in Moncton, New Brunswick with a part-time practice in the art of energy medicine.

William (Bill) N. Thorne | Recreation

Leadership, 1975

Retired in 2010 after 35 years with City of Quinte West (Trenton), where I served as Manager of Buildings and Facilities. All is fine, really enjoying retirement.

Kirk Cassady | Electronics Technician Program, 1977 Retired after working for Rogers Communications Inc. for 37 years. Employed in the Cable TV, internet and then wireless

FALL ‘16 | 32

Following graduation, I have worked as an HSR Planner, Manager of Transportation for the former Wentworth County School Board, within the private sector and then moved to Attridge Transportation Incorporated. I’ve

KEEPING IN TOUCH

progressed in the last year from the position of General Manager to my current role as the Director of Safety, Training and Compliance. 2016 will mark the 22nd and 15th birthday of my son and daughter and the 29th year of marriage to the love of my life, Steven (also a Mohawk grad)!

June A. Hutchison | Medical

Laboratory, 1987

Owner of Customer Centric Selling, Denver LLC in Colorado.

Jeannine Forbes (née Rosebrugh) | Nursing, 1988 Recently retired. Looking for classmates.

Tara A. Watson | Insurance, 1996 After spending 13 years in a successful career as a Development Manager for a National Franchise, I decided to move full time into the business of real estate. The business skills learned at Mohawk and throughout my career in Insurance and Development have given me a great background to purposefully service my clients’ needs.

Ryan Monteiro | Police Foundations, 2009 I have been a police officer since 2009. I was hired six months after graduating. I currently work for the Waterloo Regional Police

service and I’m stationed in Cambridge. I’m also married with two children.

Antonio T. Tugade | BScN, 2009 I became a mental health nurse since passing the RN exam.

Thorne Smith | Advertising, 2012 I was able to secure a position in the Advertising industry for my internship part of my program with a media agency. Working on some of Canada’s biggest companies in ad spend, I’ve grown in education and skills, and have moved around to find the best suitable placement for me using these skills. I now work with one of Canada’s top telecommunications companies for their internal media planning. Mohawk College was able to provide the knowledge needed to excel in this industry.

Sabrina Pinto Da Costa | Early Childhood Education, 2014 I just finished the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education Honours program at Brock University. I just got accepted to teachers college at Lakehead University. I am also working full time as an early childhood educator. I couldn’t be more proud of all the knowledge and experience I got at Mohawk College!

KEEP Want your update to be included in our next issue? Visit mohawkcollege.ca/stayconnected

Protection of Personal Information

From time to time, you may be contacted either by mail, e-mail or phone by one of our services and benefits partners regarding one of our programs. Mohawk College is proud of its relationship with a number of trusted partners and service providers who have an established record of treating personal information with care and provide valuable services and benefits to our alumni. We appreciate you taking the time to learn about the programs and the latest offers available. We want to let you know that at no time will your name or contact information be shared with anyone not specifically authorized by Alumni Relations. Mohawk College respects the privacy of its alumni and the sensitivity of personal information. All of our partners sign strict confidentiality agreements with us prior to receiving any contact information. Should you wish to not be contacted about services and benefit programs, JUST CALL 905-575-2258 or e-mail alumni@mohawkcollege.ca and tell us you wish to OPT OUT of affinity marketing plans. Thank you for your interest and your participation in the services and benefits provided by the Alumni Association and the Office of Alumni Relations.

FALL ‘16 | 33

Calendar of Events Please visit mohawkcollege.ca/alumni to find out more about or to register for all Alumni events.

September 27

Kickstart Your Mohawk Network (B2B) – 6pm to 9pm | The Arnie | Join us for a fun and interactive event. We will demystify the networking process and give you the tools to use and pitfalls to avoid as you build your Mohawk Network and sharpen your networking skills. After the hands on session, you will practice your newly acquired skills as you meet alumni and industry professionals to help you navigate your successful academic journey.

Women’s Softball

Alumni game: 10am - Mohawk Sports Park Stay to cheer on the Mountaineers in a doubleheader against St. Clair - 12pm and 2pm Please RSVP for alumni game via email Katey Trevaskis - katey.trevaskis@mohawkcollege.ca

Fall Convocation – 2pm Ceremony & 7pm Ceremony

Online Networking – Creating Career Connections

2016 Alumni of Distinction Awards Dinner -

October 12

Conflict & Leadership (B2B) 6pm to 7:30pm | The Arnie | Learn to understand conflict, where it comes from, and how to cope with it. Learn about the different personality types and how they interact with each other, what leaders sound like, then interact in hands-on interactive activities

Media Alumni Panel – Media Collaboration | 10am to 12pm | FREE EVENT | McIntyre Theatre – Mohawk Fennell Campus

Mountaineer Fall Weekend – Alumni Varsity

-16

Games | Soccer (Sat) and Softball (Sun) and Men’s Rugby (Sun)

Soccer Games

Alumni Games: 3:30pm Women | 5:30pm Men - Redeemer indoor fields. Stay to cheer on the Mountaineers as they play Conestoga - Women 5pm & Men 7pm Please RSVP for alumni games via email

Women - Christine (Stoneman) Sheldrake – christine.sheldrake@mohawkcollege.ca or Anna Boric - Anna.boric27@gmail.com

Men – Kelly Dunham – Kelly.dunham@mohawkcollege.ca

Men’s Rugby

Alumni Game: 12pm - Mohawk Sports Park Stay to cheer on the Mountaineers as they take on Georgian at 2pm Please RSVP for alumni game via email Mike Caruso - mike_caruso@hotmail.com

FALL ‘16 | 34

– McIntyre Performing Arts Theatre | 7pm to 8pm | Networking is one of the best ways to reconnect with your fellow alumni and make inroads for that next career step Community Reception begins at 5:30 pm and Dinner & Awards begin at 6:00 pm | $80+HST/person or $640+HST/table of 10 | Liuna Station – King George Ball Room | Honouring eight incredible graduates who are the 2016 Alumni of Distinction recipients | Reserve your seat online

November 5

Fall Open House and Alumni VIP Reception |

Etiquette Dinner – 6pm to 9pm | $30+HST/person

Online Office Hours – 12pm to 1pm | Office Hours

Money Matters (B2B) – 6pm to 7:30pm | The Arnie | We know money is always on your mind so join us for an honest talk about your financial betterment. This workshop will give you the goods on: How to stretch your paycheque | Breaking bad money habits | Quick tips on using credit to your advantage | Find out why YNAB! (You need a budget!) | Building a successful savings plan that actually works. There will also be time for your own personal questions

Fennell Campus | 10am to 1pm

| The Arnie – Business attire please | Registration required - book your spot early, as this event sells out fast!

is a way for our alumni to interact live with staff and Alumni partners, to learn more about what the Alumni Association is all about. An easy way for grads to get answers in real-time.

Online Financial FAQ Hour | 7pm to 8pm | Join us and have your financial questions answered | Register online

December

Dress for Success (B2B) – 6:30pm to 8:00pm | The Arnie | During the evening you will achieve confidence & individual style knowledge, maintain awareness on how you are presenting yourself to others, learn how to create a fantastic first impression, and how to update your style for all seasons by reaching and sustaining your ideal image

January

February 15 Ready Set Connect - Career Speed Networking (B2B) – 6pm to 7:30pm | The Arnie | Students and recent grads will have one-hour (divided into six – 10 minute sessions) to meet and connect with mentors (alumni and industry professionals) about the job market and their professional pursuits. An open reception will follow the timed sessions to further network 24 Alumni Reception | 6pm to 8pm | DBARC | Join us in cheering on our Men’s Volleyball team as Mohawk hosts the 2017 OCAA Men’s Volleyball Ontario Championships | RSVP by Feb 10

Online Career Coaching | 7pm to 8pm | Preparing for upcoming job/career fairs or interviews

Online Office Hours – 12pm to 1pm | Office Hours is a way for our alumni to interact live with staff and Alumni partners, to learn more about what the Alumni Association is all about. An easy way for grads to get answers in real-time.

Interview Intelligence (B2B) – 6pm to 8:30pm | The Arnie | Prepare for the upcoming Connect to Careers Job Fair and other important interviews by building on your interviewing skills. Learn the ins and outs of the job interview. In this session, participants will examine work related competencies and how job descriptions may predict interview questions. Time will be allotted for practicing tough interview questions and selfevaluation of answering questions.

March 20 Online Office Hours – 12pm to 1pm | Office Hours is a way for our alumni to interact live with staff and Alumni partners, to learn more about what the Alumni Association is all about. An easy way for grads to get answers in real-time.

April 24 Online Global night of Networking – City Talk Hamilton | 7pm to 8pm | Join the conversation about what is here in Hamilton and see what a great city it is | Register online

Mountaineer Winter Weekend Basketball Games – Alumni Games: 10am Women | 11am MenMohawk College - DBARC. Stay to cheer on the Mountaineers as they play Humber - Women 2pm & Men 4pm. Alumni Reception to be held during Women’s game. RSVP for alumni games via email Kelly Dunham – kelly.dunham@mohawkcollege.ca

The Backpack 2 Briefcase (B2B) workshop series has been designed to help students and recent grads develop personal and professional skills to assist with the transition into a successful “life after Mohawk”. These valuable and informative workshops help individuals develop important soft skills that are not typically taught in classrooms.

The Art of Career Networking (B2B) – 6pm to 9pm | The Arnie | During this hands on workshop, gain awareness of the classic do’s and don’ts as you learn and sharpen your career networking skills| Gain insight on the ins and outs during a reception/ conference trade show | Polish your professional presentation by using your MOHAWK MOMENT and practice your newly acquired skills as you meet alumni and industry professionals.

Register for all events at alumni.mohawkcollege.ca Please visit alumni.mohawkcollege.ca for up-to-date events and activities If you have any questions, please contact us at 905-575-2258 or alumni@mohawkcollege.ca

FALL ‘16 | 35

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