Mohawk College Alumni In Touch Magazine - Fall 2017

FALL 2017

A

TRADITION OF

DISTINCTION ALUMNI OF DISTINCTION AWARDS: MEET THE EIGHT NEW RECIPIENTS WHO WILL BE ADDED TO OUR TAPESTRY OF EXCELLENCE

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INTOUCH Publisher Mohawk College Alumni Association Editor Wendy Makey Content Coordinator Meaghan Drury Design Maggie Makar Photography Meredith MacLeod, Sean Coffey, Jacob Morris Contributors Sean Coffey, Jay Robb, Meaghan Drury, Ron McKerlie, Linda Rourke, Wendy Makey, Emily Baynes, Meredith MacLeod, Simone Mekli, Lu Ann Pannunzio, Alex Hughes, Madison Fitzpatrick, Samantha Hoover Editorial Advisory Board Wendy Makey – Director, Alumni Relations; Meaghan Drury – Alumni Communications Coordinator; Martha Li – Copywriter; Lori Morgan – Chief Marketing Officer; Katherine McCurdy – Director, Marketing and Creative Services; Samara Young – Manager, Student Life-Cycle Communications; Hillary Dawson – Special Advisor to the President, Head of Public Affairs; Dr. Wayne Poirier – Vice-President Student & Alumni Services 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 135 Fennell Ave W Hamilton, ON L9C 0E5 To update your Alumni Record, contact: Phone: 905-575-2258 alumni@mohawkcollege.ca, the address above or visit mohawkcollege.ca/stayconnected

CONTENTS IN EVERY ISSUE

2-4 19 32 34 37 40

Welcoming Words

Alumni @Work

Awards & Honours

Alumni Events

Keeping in Touch Calendar of Events

AROUND CAMPUS

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FALL 2017

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A Sustainable Paradise: Mohawk Community Plaza Spring Convocation 2017 Speakers

FEATURES & SPOTLIGHTS

6 8 10 14 15 16 18 20 28 31

Laurie Cahill ‘74 Inducted into Mountaineer Hall of Fame Simone Mekli ‘16 Nurtures Hobbies and Interests Through Continuing Education Courses Chris Mei ‘96: Weathering the Storm to Realize a Lifelong Dream Megan MacLeod ‘13: Once (or Four Times) a Student, Always an Alumni Mohamed Ibrahim ‘13: A Source of Family Pride Vince Martin ‘08: Lead the Life You Love Nishant Vora ‘05 Launches India’s First Company Offering B2B Logistics Alumni of Distinction: Meet this Year’s Eight New Recipients The Arnold Centre Through the Years Marshall Family Continues to Support Skilled Trades

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Welcoming Words

Celebrating the People Who Make Mohawk Great This August, Mohawk celebrated one of its strongest supporters with the naming of the Marshall School of Skilled Trades & Apprenticeship at the Stoney Creek Campus.

The naming followed the family’s announcement that they would donate $1.5 million for apprenticeship programs at the campus. The naming of the school is a fitting tribute to a family that have been long-time champions of our college and students.

The Marshalls first made history at Mohawk in 2006 when they made the largest ever private gift to the college in honour of their late father Gerald Marshall to support the construction of the Gerald Marshall Centre for Transportation at the Stoney Creek Campus. Their support continued over the following years as the family hosted their very popular annual benefit in support of the centre and its students.

Ron J. McKerlie President, Mohawk College

“We have a lot to be proud of at Mohawk, and we look forward to sharing even more stories about successful alumni and amazing supporters and partners.”

2 INTOUCH | Fall 2017

Celebrating with amazing supporters and partners like the Marshalls is one of the best parts of my job, another is sharing stories of graduates that have gone on to enjoy successful careers because of their experiences at Mohawk.

You’re going to read about some of those grads in this issue. People like The Weather Network’s Chris Mei. Every weekday afternoon, the Radio Broadcasting Class of ‘96 grad is on air telling Canadians from coast to coast what they need to know about the weather and how it will affect them. And if his voice sounds familiar to you, that’s because Chris is also the announcer for all of Mohawk’s convocation ceremonies.

There’s also Mohamed Ibrahim. Mohamed graduated from Mohawk’s Software Development program in 2012 and has been working in our mHealth and eHealth Development and Innovation Centre ever since. He’s worked on nearly 30 provincial, national and international digital health projects and is currently working with Myanmar’s Ministry of Health and Sports to build and deploy a national patient registry

that will become the foundation for the country’s digital health infrastructure.

Mohamed is one of six alumni who have been nominated for a Premier’s Award of Excellence this year. Fellow nominees include businessman and philanthropist Brian Hansell, CTV Broadcast Operations Manager Jonathan Vize, Ontario Nursing Association President Linda HaslamStroud, Mohawk employee Gabriella Covaci and PCL Construction’s Senior Project Manager David Folk. David, Brian, Linda and Jonathan will also be honoured with Alumni of Distinction Awards at this year’s awards ceremony on October 24 at Liuna Station. Joining them as this year’s honourees are Branthaven Homes President and Owner Steve Stipsits, author, educator and entertainer Joan Minnery, Mohawk employee Karen Davis and TV fashion expert Natalie Sexton. You’ll find stories on each of this year’s Alumni of Distinction recipients in this issue.

We have a lot to be proud of at Mohawk, and we look forward to sharing even more stories about successful alumni and amazing supporters and partners in future issues of InTouch.

Until then, I hope you will join us at some of our upcoming events including Mohawk’s 50th TGIF (Thank Goodness it’s Fifty) celebration happening on Friday, November 10, 2017 at Liuna Station.

Visit mohawkcollege.ca/50th for details.

Welcoming Words

2017-2018 Mohawk College Alumni Association Advisory Council Linda Rourke, Chair Broadcasting – Television and Communications Media, 1990

Linda Rourke ‘90 Television and Communications Media

Message from the Chair It is with great pleasure I take on the role of Chair of the Alumni Council of Mohawk College. It was a long time ago I graduated from the Television Broadcasting program but, as many of you can relate, it feels like just yesterday. When I returned to the area just over a decade ago I began to reconnect with the college and was amazed at the incredible changes that were and are taking place.

It did not take long for me to see first-hand the great work our Alumni Association was doing and I was eager to be a part of it.

It is our aim as the Alumni Council, the advisory body of the Alumni Association, to look for ways to build upon the accomplishments of graduates by connecting with each other and the college.

Each fall we undergo a process to re-evaluate our core values and to build upon the accomplishments of the previous year. The outcome gives us the foundation that will guide what we believe in, what we stand for, and how we will approach our services for you, the graduates.

“We encourage you to come back and share your experiences and help guide the future graduates of Mohawk College on a successful path, like the one you found.”

We want our engagement to be innovative, inspired, diverse, and a collaborative effort. The most important skill the Alumni Council can employ as leaders is to listen. We need to hear from you, we need to know your thoughts and ideas and we need your voice.

Your professional accomplishments, community service and civic engagement continue to make Mohawk College proud.

We encourage you to come back and share your experiences and help guide the future graduates of Mohawk College on a successful path, like the one you found.

This work continues to enhance our reputation as an institution that not only develops greatly skilled graduates but alumni who serve our college graduates and communities.

Jay Hayward, Vice-Chair Business Administration, 1999 Marcine Blake, Past Chair Recreation Leadership, 1988 Susan Bassett, Director Early Childhood Education, 1991 Kat Clark, Director Broadcasting, Television and Communications Media, 2010 Harin Dalal, Director Health, Wellness and Fitness, 2014 Lisa DiCesare, Director Law and Security Administration, 1981 Joseph Futino, Director Computer Systems Technology, 1994 Kerry Langford, Director Business Administration, 1982 Mo Mauri, Director Business, 1977 Sera Nicosia, Director Nursing, 1981 Lorenzo Somma, Director Small Business and Entrepreneurship, 2013 The Alumni Association thanks these individuals for their valued contributions to Alumni activities, committees and meetings on behalf of the Alumni of Mohawk College.

mohawkcollege.ca/alumnimagazine

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Welcoming Words

1 bursary

supports 1 student

1 student can change a family

Wendy Makey ‘93 Director, Alumni Relations

50 Years of Mohawk Pride 1 family helps revitalize a neighbourhood

1 neighbourhood strengthens a community

YOUR HELP CAN CHANGE LIVES AND BUILD COMMUNITIES Last year more than half our students experienced financial need. Scholarships and bursaries help to ensure these students have the financial means to complete their academic journey. Please consider a gift today – visit mohawkcollege.ca/ alumniannualfund and support our students.

There has been a whirlwind of activity in 2017 with countless events to celebrate Mohawk’s 50th Anniversary. Graduates, retirees and community members have reconnected with Mohawk.

Alumni from the Provincial Institute of Textiles and Hamilton Institute of Technology (Mohawk’s predecessors), alumni from Mohawk’s first graduating class of 1967, recent alumni and alumni celebrating reunions from a variety of teams and programs – everyone had a story to tell. We learned about what Mohawk was like “back in the day,” heard stories of extraordinary faculty and academic success, the good times experienced in extra-curricular activities and of lifelong friendships that are still strong today.

Stories were recounted passionately with smiles, laughter and a few tears. The common thread regardless of the storyteller’s program or year of graduation was pride. It emanated from each alumnus. They were satisfied with their Mohawk experience and their personal and career achievements. They were proud to be a Mohawk grad and expressed how Mohawk College played an important part of their success.

Mohawk pride is demonstrated by graduates in many ways; enhancing Mohawk’s reputation in communities near and far.

Prospective students are inspired by our proud graduates and they want to attend Mohawk and obtain an education that will place them on the same trajectory to success.

Everyone has a story. In celebration of our 50th Anniversary we are collecting stories and memories. We encourage you to share yours with us at mohawkcollege.ca/50th Inspire others. Share your story. Show your Mohawk pride.

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ALUMNI ANNUAL FUND

KEEP IN TOUCH CONTEST

Mohawk grads, enter to win amazing prizes, including an iPad Pro, Mohawk swag and Milwaukee and DeWalt tool combo kits – plus, weekly draws of $50 VISA gift cards, so enter early.

To enter visit mohawkcollege.ca/keep-in-touch-contest Contest closes November 26, 2017.

mohawkcollege.ca/alumnimagazine

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Spotlight

SPOTLIGHT

AN HONOUR I’LL ALWAYS CHERISH Passionate Mohawk grad and past employee, Laurie Cahill ‘75 honoured with Mountaineer Hall of Fame Induction

By Madison Fitzpatrick ‘17

G

raduate college, get hired, make a name for yourself, become a mentor and idol and be inducted into a hall of fame – these are the milestones that have been achieved by Laurie Cahill.

Cahill, a graduate of the Recreation and Leadership program class of 1975, recently received the Mountaineer Hall of Fame Award this past April in the “Builder” category.

Being hired in the Athletics Department in 1985 was a dream come true for Cahill.

Shortly after, he became the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) Men’s Basketball Convenor in 1987, holding the role until the end of the 1993/1994 season.

Laurie Cahill ‘75 – Mountaineer Hall of Fame Inductee in Builder Category Top Right: Anne, Laurie, daughter Sarah, and son-in-law Kevin.

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HIRE A MOHAWK CO-OP STUDENT Cahill expanded his talents and was a part of various OCAA committees, including the Women’s Sport Development Committee, the Marketing Committee and the Ways and Means Committee. He also played a major role in the development of the OCAA Basketball All-Star Games volunteering Mohawk College as the host for the first two years.

Former student athlete and current Varsity Volleyball Head Coach Matthew Schnarr ‘06 says, “Laurie took a genuine interest in each person’s development in the classroom, on the court and more importantly in their lives. Anyone who was involved in the program would say Laurie always had the staff, athletes and the Mountaineer program at the forefront of every decision he made.”

Cahill also served three terms on the OCAA Executive as Vice President of Marketing & Awards and Vice President of Finance from 2003 to 2009.

These days, Cahill spends time with his family, does the occasional public speaking engagement and has emceed award dinners.

After everything Cahill accomplished in his career he hoped that his efforts and results might also open a door for other graduates to work at Mohawk College.

Although Cahill enjoys taking time to golf with his wife Anne, he says, “I sincerely miss my co-workers and the energy of the students. Mohawk has always had dedicated, passionate and committed support staff and faculty who I know share that passion even today.”

“I always tried to lead by example and set the tone for my co-workers, coaches and our students who worked and participated alongside us daily,” says Cahill. His efforts succeeded as many co-workers, other staff and students looked up to Cahill over the years.

Bernetta Scime ‘84, who worked with Cahill from 1992 to 2010 says “his vision, knowledge, leadership and dedication was evident to each student and employee at Mohawk as well as within the Ontario Colleges Athletics Association.”

While Cahill was working in Mohawk’s Athletic Department and for the OCAA, he spent time and effort mentoring Mohawk student athletes.

Looking forward for the future of Mohawk, Cahill believes Mohawk needs to engage first year students to ensure they connect to the college.

Whether the students get involved with athletics, student government or even working part-time within the college, Cahill believes these are tremendous motivators for success in the classroom and instilling a passion for Mohawk.

SUCCESSFUL STUDENTS. SATISFIED EMPLOYERS. •

Hire co-op students from 20+ co-op programs

•

Post your full-time, part-time and seasonal jobs from over 150 programs

•

Recruit at career fairs

•

Host Lunch and Learn information sessions

•

Partner with Mohawk for a competitive edge

•

Eligible employers may claim a refundable Co-operative Education tax credit

Contact Co-operative Education Call: 905-575-2167 or toll free 1-888-546-COOP (2667) Email: careerready@mohawkcollege.ca mohawkcollege.ca/coop

Even though Cahill’s time at Mohawk College has ended he says, “being recognized by my peers with my induction into the Mountaineer Hall of Fame is an honour I’ll always cherish.”

mohawkcollege.ca/alumnimagazine

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Spotlight After deciding this early in her third year, she gained a student employment position in the Communications and Publications Department. It was her first time working in marketing and public relations and she really enjoyed it. Mekli remembers thinking, “I could do this for a career and love my job.”

She began researching public relations programs at different colleges and eventually decided to attend Mohawk for the Public Relations graduate certificate program.

SPOTLIGHT

While Mekli was a student at Mohawk, she held a Campus Student Employment Program (CSEP) position with the Marketing and Recruitment Department. Upon graduating, she was hired on a contract basis and worked in the department for just over a year. At the time, she didn’t know much about the CE courses Mohawk offered but was encouraged to check them out.

A CLASS FOR EVERY INTEREST Simone Mekli ‘16 nurtures hobbies, curiosities and professional development through Continuing Education courses

By Alex Hughes ‘17

S

imone Mekli has always been interested in just about everything.

From welding to web design, her collection of Continuing Education (CE) courses at Mohawk College reflect her varied palette.

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Before coming to Mohawk, Mekli attended the University of Ottawa for a year and then finished her degree at Western University, earning a B.A. in Political Science. She remembers being in her third year of university and thinking about completing another year.

While she valued her time spent in university she was ready for the next chapter.

The first CE course she took had her building shelves for a few Saturdays at the Stoney Creek Campus. Mekli, along with three male students, spent the days cutting and threading pipe and beating up wood until they had built beautiful shelves. The course took her creativity and love for completing DIY projects to the next level. This is also when she began to see CE courses as a great way to gain a competitive edge in her career.

Since graduating, the 23 year-old says that taking CE courses has helped her on a professional and personal level. For example, an introduction to HTML course gave her a great advantage when working with web designers by allowing her to speak their language and better explain exactly what she wanted.

Taking CE courses has also elevated Mekli’s creativity to a new level. She says that before taking the courses, most of her projects were simpler, but now she is able to do things like build furniture for her family and friends. “I love my free time and being able to take advantage of it. I find it keeps me centered and balanced in life,” she says. “I see taking these type of courses as an investment in myself and my happiness.”

Mekli is currently working as the Marketing & Communications Coordinator at Mohawk College Enterprise and continues to take CE courses through the college, because, as she says, “I love learning and can’t foresee a time when I decide I’ve learned enough.”

Alumni Promise

LEARNING FOR LIFE JUST GOT EASIER. In 2017 all Mohawk College graduates returning to Mohawk for any Continuing Education course are eligible to receive a $50 rebate in each semester.

GET STARTED IN 3 EASY STEPS:

50 REBATE

$

Step 1: Select your course Step 2: Register online at ce.mohawkcollege.ca or in person at The Square, located at all campuses Step 3: Apply online for your $50.00 rebate Find out more by visiting mohawkcollege.ca/gradrebate

ENHANCE A SKILL OR LEARN SOMETHING NEW THIS FALL! Whether in-class or online, evenings or weekends, you’ll find courses that fit your schedule. Courses available include: •

Human Resources

•

Yoga for a Stress Free Holiday

•

Diabetes Education

•

Excel Macros VBA Series

•

•

•

Condominium Management (ACMO)

Meditation Tips for Holiday Stress

•

Gardening Workshops

Registered Nurse – Perinatal Nursing Certificate – High Risk Obstetrics or Neonatal

Teaching the Adult Learner

•

Barn Furniture – Bookcase

•

Visit ce.mohawkcollege.ca today

mohawkcollege.ca/alumnimagazine

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Section

SPOTLIGHT

Chris Mei on set at The Weather Network’s studios in Oakville, ON.

HERE COMES THE SUN Mohawk Alumnus Chris Mei ‘96 weathers a personal storm to realize lifelong dream of becoming a TV personality and broadcaster

By Sean Coffey

W

hat did you want to be when you grew up? Chris Mei wanted to be on the radio. He wanted it so bad that while other kids played road hockey he would stand at the sidelines and give the play-by-play.

“I wanted to be the next Tom Cheek or Rick Jeanerette,” says Chris. “All I did was pretend I was a radio announcer.”

All that practice paid off. Today you can tune into The Weather Network on any weekday afternoon and find Chris doing

10 INTOUCH | Fall 2017

what he does best, entertaining viewers with his trademark funny and informative broadcasting style. If you’re a recent grad, you’ll have a personal connection to Chris as he has been the announcer for Mohawk’s Convocation Ceremonies since 2015.

The journey from road hockey announcer to TV personality/professional emcee wasn’t always smooth sailing. After high school Chris studied theatre at York University. It was a step in the right direction but it wasn’t what he really wanted to do, he recalls. It took a life-changing event to make him realize that.

Part way through his studies at York, Chris’s father passed away. “When the family unit fell apart, everything fell apart,” he said.

Chris quit school, left home and moved out west to figure out what to do next.

“I went out there and redefined myself. I realized that I didn’t want to screw around anymore. I wanted to do what I had always wanted to do, because that’s what I’d be best at.”

What he wanted to do was be a broadcaster.

Spotlight

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Mohawk was his second, and as far he was concerned, last chance, says Chris. “I didn’t have an escape plan. I got accepted as a mature student and I worked as hard as I could to learn what I needed to succeed in the job I had wanted to do since I was a kid. I got lucky. I had great professors like Brian Bolt who were passionate about the business and encouraged us to push harder and learn as much as we could.”

Chris had a passion for radio, and after graduating, he tried as a hard as he could to break into the business. He worked at several radio stations doing everything from special events to on-air bits and interviews, but he could never get that coveted on-air job.

“I got frustrated,” says Chris. “I left the country to work on cruise ships, and that’s where I learned how to be an emcee. I worked my way up to Cruise Director but didn’t enjoy the administrative side of the job. I just wanted to perform.”

Chris came back to Hamilton and eventually landed a job as a television host with Cable 14. He would do emceeing on the side too, and it was while emceeing an event in Hamilton in 2006 that someone from The Weather Network saw him and asked him to audition.

“Once I started learning about the weather I really loved it – genuinely loved it – and still do. I’m a weather nerd,” says Chris. “The Weather Network is 24-7 weather. To have this job you have to know the weather. I’m actively on air four solid hours a day, talking about nothing but the weather. There’s no script, no teleprompters. It’s all knowledge.”

Weather is an earth science and that’s tough to digest for most, he explains. His job is to make it interesting.

“I think that’s where my time at Mohawk comes in. I deliver the weather in the same way my Mohawk professors taught me, with lots of enthusiasm and a little humour. I make it fun to know the weather.”

“I didn’t have an escape plan. I got accepted as a mature student and I worked as hard as I could to learn what I needed to succeed in the job I had wanted to do since I was a kid.”

– Chris Mei

mohawkcollege.ca/alumnimagazine

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Insurance & Mortgage Services We’ve got you covered! Group rates available on health, home, auto and travel.

Class Rings & Official Mohawk College Frames Put your Mohawk pride on display.

TAKE ADVANTAGE YOUR As a grad of Mohawk there are a variety of partnerships and perks available to you.

Credit Card With a variety of plans and options, get a card that’s suited to you.

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Graduate Employment Services Graduates have access to walk-in assistance with resume critiquing, job searching, training opportunities and one-on-one support. In-class and on-line workshops are available to help you brush up on current employment trends.

Need assistance? Get in touch with Student and Graduate Employment at 905-575-2176 or mcaces@mohawkcollege.ca

Travel, Car Rentals, Accommodations and Entertainment Save with exclusive discounts and offers from a variety of partners.

OF MEMBERSHIP Learn more about your benefits at mohawkcollege.ca/alumnibenefits Car Purchase Preferred pricing for grads.

On Campus Get your Alumni Card to take advantage of on-campus benefits.

David Braley Athletic & Recreation Centre Enjoy a discounted monthly fee for Alumni.

Learn more at mohawkcollege.ca/dbarc

Mohawk Varsity Games Discounted admittance to Mountaineer home games.

See schedules at mohawkcollege.ca/athletics

mohawkcollege.ca/alumnimagazine

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Spotlight

ONCE (OR FOUR TIMES) A STUDENT, ALWAYS AN ALUMNI How a McMaster/Mohawk affiliated program started it all for Megan MacLeod ‘13

By Lu Ann Pannunzio ‘12

M

egan MacLeod’s journey to Mohawk College started at McMaster University. She was inspired to enroll in Mohawk College’s Leadership and Management in a Not-for-Profit sector program while she was completing her undergrad at McMaster in 2009. Megan was among the first to take advantage of the new program the university and college were offering together. This program allowed her to get a real taste of the non-profit sector while studying and complemented her personal interests perfectly.

After graduating in 2012, her time at Mohawk College didn’t end. She’s a graduate of three other programs, her final one ending in spring 2014. Her education continued with the Event Management – Convention & Meeting program, the Volunteer Management program and the Fundraising Development program.

She then began to work in Advancement at McMaster University; however, she wasn’t ready to stop studying just yet. “While working fulltime, I completed my Masters of Philanthropy and Non-profit Leadership at Carleton University, which I finished in 2016. I’ve been an active volunteer with the Association of Fundraising Professionals since my time at Mohawk and remain

engaged with personal volunteering endeavours in the community.”

As a volunteer at Norman Pinky Lewis Recreation Centre, where recreation opportunities are provided for at-risk children and youth, Megan implemented projects that benefited these children and their families. Warm Up For Winter was organized for winter clothing donations and to date over 40,000 items have been distributed to support over 3,000 families in the Hamilton community.

Recognizing that graduation can seem daunting to some, her next project, Glitz, Glamour and Graduation, aimed to nurture the well being of local students by providing graduation attire, accessories, professional hair stylists and makeup artists to prospective grads at no cost to them.

Feet First For Haiti was the third campaign Megan launched after the 2010 earthquake. With the help of community members, she collected 4,000 pairs of shoes to ship to Haiti in a multi-ton sea

“I can say with certainty that I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for my time at Mohawk.”

– Megan MacLeod

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crate, which doubled as a medical personnel shelter. In 2015, her wonderful achievements were acknowledged, as she was the Recent Graduate recipient of a Mohawk Alumni of Distinction award.

“I can say with certainty that I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for my time at Mohawk,” Megan exclaims. While studying at Mohawk she understood the importance of personal development and getting involved outside of the classroom. The two went hand in hand. She worked in the Foundation office and was also a Student Leader with the Student Leadership Academy. “Under one roof, I was able to study, work and volunteer!”

Megan feels very fortunate to be where she is right now, but she doesn’t rule out returning to Mohawk College in the future!

Spotlight

Mohamed Ibrahim ‘13 Came to Canada With One Goal:

TO MAKE HIS PARENTS

PROUD

By Sean Coffey

W

hen he was 12 years old, Mohamed Ibrahim’s mom boarded a plane and left for Canada. He didn’t see her again until he was 15.

His mom’s decision to leave Sudan for Canada came suddenly, Mohamed recalls.

Times were tough in the east African country.

The economy was in shambles, and the threat of war made the future uncertain. It was against this backdrop that Mohamed’s parents decided his mom would leave Sudan to join her brothers in Hamilton with the hopes of bringing Mohamed, his brother and father to Canada soon after.

The three years that he, his brother and father stayed behind were difficult, he said.

They moved around, living with different family members while they waited for word from Canada. He missed his mom terribly and it was even worse for his brother who is six years younger than him.

They were reunited in January 2004, and Mohamed recalls those first months in Canada as being filled with happiness and hope. He understood what his parents went through and how much they struggled to give him and his brother a better life.

“I came here determined. My parents put all of their hopes in my brother and I, so we had to make them proud.”

A few years passed. He graduated from high school and was working as a pizza delivery driver on weekends while he figured out what to do next. One day, while he was making a delivery, he heard the radio announcer talking about how Mohawk College had received a grant that would give software engineering students the chance to work on applied research projects with real employers.

“I remember thinking how amazing it was that those students would get to do that kind of work,” he says.

The message stuck. Mohamed enrolled in the Software Engineering program at Mohawk in 2009, attracted by the hands-on experience college offered. As fate would have it, he eventually found himself working on the very same applied research projects — funded by the Natural

“I’ve always enjoyed doing things that have great impact, and working in health care is a great way to do that.”

– Mohamed Ibrahim

Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) — he had heard about on the radio a few years before. He impressed his professors and the college. Mohawk hired him as soon as he graduated in 2012.

Today, he is Junior Software Architect at Mohawk’s mHealth and eHealth Development and Innovation Centre (MEDIC). He has worked on nearly 30 provincial, national and international digital health projects and has mentored more than 50 co-op students. He also teaches part-time with the Faculty of Engineering Technology.

An emerging leader in health informatics, Mohamed is currently working with Myanmar’s Ministry of Health and Sports to build and deploy a national patient registry that will serve as the building block for a national digital health infrastructure for the Southeast Asian country.

“I’ve always enjoyed doing things that have great impact, and working in health care is a great way to do that.”

As for the future and what it holds, Mohamed is busy studying part-time to earn a degree in Software Engineering from McMaster University. This fall he has been nominated for a Premier’s Award of Excellence from Mohawk College.

As for what his parents think of their son’s success, “they are very proud of me,” says Mohamed.

mohawkcollege.ca/alumnimagazine

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Section Spotlight

SPOTLIGHT

Vince Martin at the Six Nations Fire Department in Ohsweken. Photo

by Robert Anzit.

LEAD “ F THE LIFE YOU LOVE

By Simone Mekli ‘16 ind something you love to do and it won’t feel like work.” Advice you’ve likely heard hundreds of times before, and something that can only come from a person who truly loves what they do.

Passionate Deputy Fire Chief Vince Martin ‘08 credits his success to community engagement and a commitment to lifelong learning

This was one of the first things Vince Martin said to me upon meeting. Vince is a Deputy Fire Chief with Six Nations Fire and Emergency Services in Ohsweken; just a 30 minute drive from Mohawk College’s Fennell Campus. He has been with the fire department for over 15 years. Starting as a volunteer, he never expected he would work his way up the ranks to a full-time position. He attributes this achievement to his desire to give back to his community.

Along with a few of his colleagues, Vince has pushed for firefighters to become safety certified early on in their careers. Currently, one hundred percent of all full-time, part-

16 INTOUCH | Fall 2017

time and volunteer firefighters in Ohsweken are safety certified.

His dedication to the Ohsweken community doesn’t stop with his career. Vince is also involved in a men’s group that meets regularly to support one another through difficult obstacles, or to just lend a listening ear. Vince says his community is so important to him “because it’s like one big family…you know in times of need everyone will come together.”

In addition to Ohsweken, Vince speaks highly of another community that helped him accomplish his goals – Mohawk College.

As a graduate of two Mohawk programs, Business ‘08 and Human Resources ‘09, Vince is very thankful for his time spent walking the Fennell Campus halls. These two programs helped him gain the skills and knowledge to communicate effectively, handle difficult situations, manage projects and much more. “I’m very appreciative of my Mohawk education and wouldn’t be where

Spotlight

FULLY CUSTOMIZED TRAINING TO SUIT YOUR ORGANIZATION’S NEEDS

WHY CHOOSE MCE?

Mohawk College Enterprise is ready to serve clients in all sectors.

We will come to you, too! We deliver training at any location of your • MCE offers fully customized training to suit your organization’s needs choice across Ontario.

• MCE offers training in the following areas: leadership, technology

We can also assist with COJG applications to help fund training for your and health & community services employees.

• We can come to you! MCE will deliver training at any location of your choice

MCE’s Future Ready Leadership program hasatbeen recognized across Ontario, including our office location Mohawk College’s nationally, andCampus has proudly graduated over 600 Future Ready Leaders.

Stoney Creek • MCE has experience serving clients in all sectors; both publicly and

privately owned “The positive effects of the Future Ready Leadership Program were immediately apparent: Increased confidence and fund a greater comfort • MCE can assist clients with COJG applications to help their training costs in• their skin when communicating on a variety of issues.”

MCE’s Future Ready Leadership program has been recognized nationally, and has proudly graduated over 600 Future Ready Leaders

– Robin Dunn, Chief Administrative Officer, Township of Oro-Medonte “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

I am without it,” he says. After graduating from Mohawk College, Vince went on to pursue further education at Brock University, receiving a certificate in Adult Education.

Education is something Vince is very passionate about, saying the “growing population needs to keep on top of their education and learning.” It also doesn’t stop once you leave post-secondary school.

Leadership training has become increasingly important within the Six Nations Fire Department and Emergency Services.

Knowing this, Vince applied for and recently participated in the Future Ready Leadership training program through Mohawk’s corporate training subsidiary, Mohawk College Enterprise. The program, delivered one day a month over eight months, was held in Brantford where Vince had the opportunity to work with colleagues from the City of Brantford, Norfolk County and Six Nations Council.

“There are so many different programs and opportunities, but once you get where you want to be, it’s enjoyable and it’s not anything like work.”

– Vince Martin

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

Through experiential learning and the guidance of experienced facilitators, the participants put into action leadership principles and techniques. “The program provided me with techniques on how to implement leadership skills at work and lead different age groups and generations,” says Vince. As a leader in his community and work, Vince says the most important skills to have are “communication, integrity and honesty” – skills that are necessary in his chosen career path in emergency services.

Vince has high hopes for the new generation of young people entering the work force.

“There are so many different programs and opportunities, but once you get where you want to be, it’s enjoyable and it’s not anything like work.”

Luckily for Vince, he’s found that in his work with the Six Nations Fire and Emergency Services, and beyond.

mohawkcollege.ca/alumnimagazine

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Section

SPOTLIGHT

FROM GRAD TO GRAB Mohawk grad Nishant Vora ‘05 is behind India’s first company offering B2B logistics

By Lu Ann Pannunzio ‘12 Residing in India, Nishant Vora ‘05 is the Director and Co-founder of Grab, a delivery service company for businesses and merchants backed by an Uber-like fleet of riders. Founded in 2014, Grab works with restaurants, ecommerce companies, grocers, pharmacies, banks and more. McDonald’s, KFC, Amazon and FedEx are a few of their major clients.

Grab’s major investors, Aramex Ventures and Zomato, were clients that invested to help Grab grow to cities where the delivery service is needed.

InTouch connected with Nishant and discussed his business adventures, appreciation for his education, and future company plans.

18 INTOUCH | Fall 2017

Q A

What did life after Mohawk College look like for you?

I first started a landscape development company, Silverfoliage, which provided live indoor plants for offices, maintained weekly and changed monthly. I learned the importance of green space in commercial premises while studying ISO certification process at Mohawk.

After dealing with multiple corporations at Silverfoliage we started White Facilities, a company that offered our clients facility management service for commercial premises.

Through White Facilities I was providing housekeeping and supervision staff to an international coffee chain (Aromas Café).

They later requested delivery riders to manage their home delivery business. This need coined the idea for Grab.

Q

How have your skills from Mohawk College assisted you as a business owner?

A

I always wanted to start my own business. My exposure in Canada and specifically in Mohawk helped me develop the aptitude and personality needed to execute my own business.

Industrial Engineering at Mohawk really helped me in logical analytical thinking. I really want to thank my faculty for giving me this knowledge and confidence. Special thanks to Professors Louie D’Orazio and Joel Gaudet.

Q A

On a typical day, what is business like for Grab’s network of riders?

Q A

Where do you think your growth will be next year?

Our network of riders consists of working professionals, college students, and industry experts. We are currently operational in 14 cities Pan-India with 3000+ riders and 25,000+ daily orders.

Grab is currently growing month-overmonth. By next year we will be present in 24 cities.

Alumni @Work

Strong Partnership With Hamilton’s YWCA Continues to Grow a shared vision for making a difference in our community, we recognize that the YWCA has been, and will continue to be, a key partner in the development of innovative solutions that effectively address potential barriers to education and employment.”

M

ohawk’s partnership with the YWCA in Hamilton has been a strong part of the community since the college’s early days. Today, the YWCA hosts placements with students from Mohawk’s Social Service Worker and Early Childhood Education programs on an ongoing basis. Many Mohawk grads have found employment with the YWCA, while other grads and students choose to dedicate their free time volunteering with the organization.

Additionally, Mohawk employees assist the YWCA by sitting on advisory committees for their programs. Recent YWCA Woman of Distinction, Emily Ecker, in her role as Mohawk’s Manager of Community Access and Engagement, shares that “Mohawk College has been a long-standing partner with the YWCA and has collaborated on key initiatives including the Women in Trades programs and most recently bridging programs for internationally trained professionals. With

In recent years, the YWCA has partnered with Mohawk to facilitate three program streams: •

Bridging to Employment – Information and Communications Technology and Environmental Sector

•

Women in Technology (WIT)

•

Pre-Apprenticeship for Women in Skilled Trades – General Machinist/ Millwright

Students begin learning soft skills at the Y’s MacNab Street location, move to Mohawk as a class for technical training and, upon completion, return to the YWCA for assistance with obtaining a job. Mohawk grad and YWCA’s Manager of Employment and Training Services Deborah Schwientek sees strength in this partnership for clients. “The technical skills they’re getting from Mohawk College, combined with the employability skills that we’re giving them, they’ve been able to make a change in their life for the better.“

Alumni@Work celebrates our grads at their places of work.

Do you work with a few or many Mohawk grads? Let us know! You could be enjoying your next coffee break with us. mohawkcollege.ca/alumni-at-work

mohawkcollege.ca/alumnimagazine

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20 INTOUCH | Fall 2017

ALUMNI OF DISTINCTION

A TRADITION OF

DISTINCTION

This year’s Alumni of Distinction awards will see eight more outstanding Mohawk graduates added to our tapestry of excellence

L

aunched in 1996, the Alumni of Distinction Awards have since been presented to 113 Mohawk College graduates. They recognize individual career achievements and community contributions of exceptional graduates. In addition to their award, the Alumni Association honours each recipient with a one-time donation of $500 to Mohawk College for a bursary/scholarship in their name.

This year’s eight new inductees uphold the tradition of being leaders, community builders and role models for our students. They exemplify what can be achieved with a Mohawk College education.

2017 Alumni of Distinction Awards Celebration 2017 Alumni of Distinction Awards Celebration Join us in supporting these eight recipients.

When: Tuesday, October 24 Where: Liuna Station – 360 James St. N, Hamilton ON

Reception: 5:30 pm Dinner & Awards: 6:00 pm

Tickets available at mohawkcollege.ca/alumni-of-distinction

2018 Alumni of Distinction Nominations will open in November.

Learn more at mohawkcollege.ca/alumni-of-distinction

mohawkcollege.ca/alumnimagazine

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Cover Story Alumni of Distinction

KAREN DAVIS Mohawk College Employee Program:

Early Childhood Education

Year graduated: 1993

Occupation:

Professor/Coordinator Early Childhood Education Program

Karen Davis fell in love with Mohawk as a student and never wanted to leave.

second language families. She left to have two children.

She still gets butterflies at the start of the school year. Every June, she buys a piece of Mohawk clothing to add to her collection.

Davis gave up a full-time job as the executive director of an Ontario Early Years Centre to return to Mohawk part-time teaching continuing education classes and supervising placements. She became full-time faculty about 15 years ago.

“I really feel like I dreamed myself into this job.”

Davis oversees the standard and intensive ECE programs, the child development apprenticeship and the human behaviour degree program with McMaster.

After graduating, she was hired in Mohawk’s Lab School, a daycare for English as a

“The people, the culture, I have always felt at home at Mohawk College. Right from Lab School to now, I’m always encouraged to take risks and opportunities and try new things. I’m always given the freedom to go with my ideas.”

JONATHAN VIZE

Creative Arts & Design

Program:

Journalism and Communications Media

Year graduated: 2005

Occupation:

Senior Manager, Broadcast Operations, CTV National, Toronto and News Channel, and TSN

22 INTOUCH | Fall 2017

Mohawk College’s Journalism program prepared Jonathan Vize for what his chosen career would demand of him in both professional knowledge and personal sacrifice. “I was warned very early in journalism school that TV is not made between the hours of 9 am and 5 pm. I’ve missed events with family and friends, dinners with loved ones, consistent sleeping hours and much more,” he says.

BRIAN HANSELL

ALUMNI OF DISTINCTION

Affinity

Brian Hansell carefully considered his path for post-secondary school education. As an applied learner Mohawk’s hands-on teaching and experienced instructors was the right fit.

“Mohawk provided me with the foundation for a successful career. I wear the badge of the college with great honour and pride.”

At graduation, Hansell secured a position in the group division of Great-West Life and had a successful career. He has owned many businesses, the most recent Hansell Consulting Group, specializing in workplace wellness.

A member of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization since 1995, Brian has served as President of both the Toronto Chapter and the Global Organization (12,000 members worldwide) and in 2014 he founded the Southwest Ontario Chapter. He was instrumental in securing the 2018 Global Leadership Conference to Toronto, which will bring 2,000 entrepreneurs from around the global to the region.

Through both his consulting work and the Paul Hansell Foundation, named in honour of his son who died by suicide in 2010, Brian has been recognized as a mental health advocate. He recently received a national award as a Champion of Mental Health. Paul Hansell Foundation

has become world renowned through its movement to Keep the Conversation Going for Mental Health and its unique initiative #ConvoPlate. Hand-painted stonewear plates are circulated around the world to get people talking about mental health. The plates have reached Prince William and Kate Middleton, former First Lady Rosalyn Carter and many politicians, media personalities and sports figures.

Mohawk was a “perfect fit” for him because he excelled at hands-on learning. He says today’s journalists need to know all aspects of what makes great TV, including writing, camera work, editing and producing.

beyond only presentation skills and developed my eagerness to become a video editing expert. His guidance helped me land my first job in the industry as a junior editor at CityTV in Toronto.”

“I was able to learn the craft by editing videos, writing newscasts and, of course, making mistakes, all while receiving constructive feedback from experts with proven experience.”

The station was converting from editing on tape machines to digital editing when Vize got the job six months after graduation.

In 2008, Vize shifted to CP24. He became an editing supervisor there before being hired in 2015 as the senior manager of broadcast operations at CTV. He oversees a team of 100 full-time and freelance editors who cover the editing needs for TSN SportsCentre, CTV National News, CTV Toronto and CTV News Channel.

Vize was motivated, and challenged by the enthusiasm of journalism instructor Darryl Hartwick. Kurt Muller, now Associate Dean of Media and Entertainment, was also an important mentor, says Vize. “He encouraged me to expand my abilities

Program:

Business Administration

Year graduated: 1983

Occupation:

Mental Health Advocate, President, Paul Hansell Foundation and Hansell Consulting Group

His work day begins before he gets behind the wheel to commute from the Stoney Creek Mountain to CTV’s operations base in Scarborough. He searches through emails to get up-to-speed on any overnight problems. Once in the office, he ensures each department has the staff and equipment to meet deadlines. From there, his day is a series of meetings with senior managers in operations and editorial to discuss upcoming projects or any technical issues.

Vize, who also met his wife Shayla Scott at Mohawk, says visiting his alma mater always feels surreal. “It’s familiar and foreign all at the same time. The development of the campus is astounding.”

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Alumni of Distinction

DAVID FOLK Technology

Folk reflects that he’s now that teacher and mentor within PCL, one of Canada’s largest construction firms. He’s worked on the original Windsor casino, North Bay Regional Hospital, St. Joseph’s Hospital, the new Humber River Hospital and the Air Canada Centre.

Program:

Architectural Technology

Year graduated: 1988

Occupation:

Senior Project Manager, PCL Constructors Canada Inc.

His time at Mohawk gave him all the technical skills he needed and also showed him how to be professional.

“Being a recipient of the Alumni of Distinction Award has made me reflect on how things have come full circle and what Mohawk meant to it all,” he says.

The words of his Mohawk College teachers about obsessing over details has stayed with David Folk as he oversees multi-million-dollar construction projects.

“I found my feet at Mohawk. I got great advice and life lessons from my instructors. They were all industry professionals who were leaders in their field.”

“It’s also been a teaching opportunity for my son. He’s 15 years old and I tell him to do what you love and do well in school and follow your path. I hope he sees his dad did that.”

Advice to my first-year self Karen Davis “Take advantage of everything Mohawk has to offer in support services, extracurricular activities and events. I would embrace them even more if I could go back. There was nothing I needed as a student that I didn’t have.”

Jonathan Vize

Brian Hansell

David Folk

“At times I was focused on learning too few things. Being a ‘one-trick pony’ is not realistic in the scope of today’s business, especially when you first break in. From post-production to live news, audio to video editing, writing to photography, there is so much to learn and many to learn from.

Get your hands on everything.”

“Recognize that hard work and effort are preparing you for the rest of your life. School is the start of something amazing but there is no magic wand or pixie dust. You have to put in the effort.”

“If you can go to school and find something you really enjoy, you’ll never work a day in your life.

You shouldn’t be going to school to find a job, but what you are drawn to do.”

Alumni of Distinction

NATALIE SEXTON Entrepreneur

Many people told Natalie Sexton she couldn’t make a living at aesthetics when she decided as a young mother to study at Mohawk College. She continues to prove them wrong.

“I left Mohawk confident and with a skill set I needed. I felt when I was leaving like I was ready to take on the world.”

She has grown a home-based aesthetics business into a popular blog, a boutique called Sexton in the City on Locke Street, as well as becoming a regular TV fashion expert on The Marilyn Denis Show and CHCH, and is now a brand representative for Giant Tiger, Swimco, and Lime Ridge Mall, among others.

Program:

Sexton’s enterprise is a family business, with her sister Kathryn Suffoletta as head makeup artist and daughter Megan Cecilioni operating the store. All are Mohawk graduates.

Aesthetics

Year graduated: 2005

Occupation:

The Alumni of Distinction Award is “overwhelming in a really great way,” says Sexton. “I feel proud of myself. It’s an absolute honour.”

Sexton in the City Brand Creator, Fashion Expert

Natalie Sexton

Linda Haslam-Stroud

Joan Minnery

Steve Stipsits

“I was in school full-time while working part-time raising three little kids. Don’t give up. Don’t listen to what other people have to say about whether you can make money at something you love to do. The possibilities are endless. Don’t stop dreaming.”

“Don’t just go to learn but take in the experience.

Soak up every opportunity you have. School is meant to broaden your horizons and open your eyes to the world. As a student of Mohawk College, many doors will open to you.”

“Get involved. Go to the social events, get involved in the students council, go to the games. Be part of Mohawk and really experience the college experience.”

“Keep your eyes open for opportunities that may present themselves and don’t be shy to try new things. And think big.

That’s what made me say yes to treks to the North and South poles (to raise money for children’s charities.) That was one of the best experiences of my life.

Get outside your comfort zone.”

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Alumni of Distinction

JOAN MINNERY Community Services One of Joan Minnery’s Mohawk classmates had cerebral palsy.

“I took her under my wing and she took me under hers. I’ve always had a real draw to people with special needs and they are drawn to me.”

Minnery knew she wanted to work with those with special needs. That’s what she did, working at W. Ross Macdonald School and the Lansdowne Children’s Centre, both in Brantford.

She embraced music to entertain children, then became a performer in the community, and teaches dance and voice.

She’s also an author, writing a book about her journey to lose 150 pounds, and an inspirational speaker.

Minnery says Mohawk gave her confidence and taught her everything she needed. “I walked into Mohawk as a high school girl.

When I graduated, I had grown up. That was the beginning of the person I became.”

Now her son, who studied business at Mohawk, is one of those graduates, too.

“It’s our legacy together.”

Program:

Early Childhood Education

Year graduated: 1988

Occupation:

Owner/Operator, Joan Minnery Enterprises

LINDA HASLAM-STROUD

Health Sciences Program: Nursing

Year graduated: 1977

Occupation:

Provincial President, Ontario Nurses’ Association

26 INTOUCH | Fall 2017

Cover Story Alumni of Distinction

STEVE STIPSITS

Steve Stipsits says a lot has changed at Mohawk since he was a student but an important thing remains the same.

Business

“I’m still impressed with how engaged people are there… There is such positive energy to the place,” says Stipsits, who is finishing his first year as a member of the Board of Governors.

Stipsits was also named a Mohawk Distinguished Fellow in June.

Program:

His parents founded Branthaven Homes in Burlington, which will build about 400 custom houses this year.

Stipsits, who has three daughters, is joined by his wife and two sisters in the business.

Architectural Technology

Year graduated: 1984

Occupation:

President and Owner, Branthaven Homes

Stipsits chose Mohawk because it had a “phenomenal” program and was close to home so he could keep working as a general labourer at Branthaven. His time at Mohawk solidified his work ethic, he says.

“The level of our instructors was fantastic. The variety of things we learned, from contract law to surveying to applied psychology and engineering and architectural design, it was so well rounded.”

Linda Haslam-Stroud often peeked through the back fence of her house to watch an apple orchard become Mohawk College. So when it came time to pick a school to study nursing, Mohawk already felt like home.

She was just 16 when she started what was then Mohawk’s nursing school at St. Joseph’s hospital in 1975. It was the first year the program was delivered by Mohawk.

She intended to finish the two-year college program and then do three years at McMaster to get a nursing degree. But she started work right away and never went back.

“The education we got at Mohawk prepared us very well as nursing students to start our careers. The faculty was amazing and we learned so much in our clinical placements…. We felt like a part of the team caring for complex patients and it made you feel very empowered and confident.”

She worked in the surgical unit at St. Joe’s for several years and then moved to the renal transplant unit.

“I always thank St. Joe’s for refusing me my wedding day off,” she says with a laugh.

Her union career began in 1978 when she was denied a day off to get married. Her union representative won the fight. Haslam-Stroud went to a meeting and was asked to run for the local executive. She became president in 1979. She then chaired the provincial contract negotiating team for many years.

A career highlight was spearheading an amendment to the ONA constitution to include nursing students as affiliate members.

In addition to an Alumni of Distinction award, Haslam-Stroud was made a Distinguished Fellow of Mohawk this year.

When her two daughters were older, Haslam-Stroud agreed to run for president, though that raised eyebrows because she hadn’t been a member of the board. But she won and it meant relocating to Toronto Monday to Friday from her home in south of Hamilton.

“I feel really privileged to be allowed the kind of leadership opportunities I’ve had in ONA after graduating from Mohawk… I’m so honoured to be recognized by my alma mater. It provided me a foundation to go out in the world and do good and serve others,” she said.

She intends to retire at the end of the year, after this, her seventh consecutive two-year term as president representing 65,000 nurses and related occupations in the province.

“My heart is always going to be at Mohawk.”

mohawkcollege.ca/alumnimagazine

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History

THE ARNOLD CENTRE THROUGH THE YEARS

By Samantha Hoover ‘17

N

amed after late respected Mohawk College faculty member Al Arnold, The Arnold Centre (known today as “The Arnie”) was created within the old St. Joseph’s Psychiatric Hospital root cellar on the Fennell property.

The Centre was originally used by the surrounding farm to hold and supply food for the patients and staff at the psychiatric hospital across the street, which originally owned the land where the Fennell Campus stands today.

28 INTOUCH | Fall 2017

Back when the Arnold Centre was first built, The Cellar did not exist as a separate entity. In other words, The Arnie was The Cellar and vice versa.

It wasn’t until the MSA Student Centre officially opened its doors in 1985 that The Cellar was distinguished as a secondary outlet as a sit-down bar and restaurant.

Over the summers of 1998 and 1999, major renovations took place to both The Cellar and The Arnie. Nearly $1 million was spent ensuring top-notch facilities for students to enjoy.

In 2003, The Cellar received a historical designation and is now one of Hamilton’s most significant landmarks. Its iconic arched vaults represent a unique architectural style that can’t be found anywhere else in Ontario.

Many Mohawk grads and alumni still remember The Arnie and The Cellar in their fondest memories of their time at the college.

“I have to say that working at The Arnie was one of the best times of my life,” says 1992 alum Tony Tenace. “It gave me many

History

nd opening of Al Arnold’s parents attend the gra 1970’s.

The Arnold Centre in the ear ly

The Cellar t oday – it remai restaurant at Fennns as t he only sit-down el l C ampus.

An ad for the Ar nie from InT ouch Magazine in 1984.

live es to be a hot spot for ts. inu nt co t i – y da to nie even The Ar tivities and interactive music, C ommon Hour ac

memories I will have forever. I also made a lot of friends that I still have in my life.”

“The Arnie and The Cellar will always hold some of my favourite memories from my time at Mohawk,” says 2010 grad Christine Blaskivich. “I loved having such a big space to sit and eat our lunch, or finish a last minute project. From the DJs, to the bouncers; everyone was so friendly and fun that I still keep in touch with them!”

The Arnie in its original Cellar location circa 1980.

Today, The Arnie continues to be the hot spot on campus for live music, Common Hour activities and interactive events for the Mohawk student body; similarly, The Cellar remains as the only sit-down restaurant at the Fennell Campus, catering a wide variety of diverse food options and a comfortable environment for anyone who stops by.

One thing is certain: The Arnie and The Cellar will continue to live on for students old and new.

mohawkcollege.ca/alumnimagazine

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AROUND CAMPUS

Mohawk staff and faculty attend the grand opening of the Mohawk Community Plaza.

A SUSTAINABLE PARADISE Reclaimed parking lot gets a new green identity as the Mohawk Community Plaza

T

he Mohawk Community Plaza is a dynamic outdoor space designed to enhance connectivity between Mohawk College and the community it serves. It’s also Mohawk’s latest sustainable development at the Fennell Campus.

Key Sustainability Features

“The Plaza is constructed on the site of a reclaimed parking lot, which supports sustainability in a number of ways,” explains Emily Baynes, Interim Sustainability Manager. “Naturalizing the space helps to reduce the heat island effect, supports wildlife and improves stormwater drainage.”

Sustainable design features of the Mohawk Community Plaza include natural seating areas and finishes throughout, including wood, stone and grass. New, pedestrian-scale lighting is a combination of solar-powered light posts, and LED lighting that is energy efficient and reduces light pollution. The timber pergola is complemented by a variety of gardens which include native, drought-resistant plant species that minimize maintenance and support a healthy pollinator population.

Native, drought-resistant plant species that support a healthy pollinator population.

Natural seating areas and finishes including wood, stone and grass.

“The signature water feature at the centre of the plaza is supplied by an underground rainwater harvesting system,” says Baynes. “The system works with permeable paving to naturally filter particulate from rainwater while diverting it from the municipal sewer system.”

Combination of solar-powered and LED lighting that is energy efficient and reduces light pollution.

This pedestrian-focused development also completes the space around the Mohawk College Transit Terminal, which facilitates thousands of public transit trips every day. “By enhancing community access to the terminal, the plaza also supports mobility and connectivity for students and staff, and for our neighbours as well.”

Underground rainwater harvesting system that supplies water to the signature feature at the centre of the plaza.

Head out to the corner of West 5th Street and Fennell Avenue to see the Mohawk Community Plaza for yourself.

30 INTOUCH | Fall 2017

Complements the Mohawk College Transit Terminal, which faciliates thousands of public transit trips every day.

Gifts

LEAVE YOUR MARK!

TAKE YOUR PLACE ON MOHAWK’S PATHWAY The Mohawk Alumni Association is doubling the power of your generosity!

The Mohawk Alumni Advisory Council has stepped forward with a matching challenge of $110,000, in honour of our 110,000 graduates, matching all individual donations in celebration of The Start of Something Amazing – now that is truly amazing!

Visit mohawkcollege.ca/bricks and click “Donate Now” to leave your mark and be The Start of Something Amazing.

L-R: Wayne Marshall, Jo-Anne Spadafora, Linda Marshall and Rick Marshall

Marshall Family Continues to Support the Skilled Trades

T

his past summer the Marshall family announced that they are leaving a living legacy in support of the skilled trades by making another major gift donation. The donation builds on a history of the Marshall family’s generosity in support of Mohawk students.

In 2006, the family honoured their late father Gerald Marshall by supporting major construction and renovations at the Stoney Creek Campus. At that time, it was the single largest donation in Mohawk’s history. In recognition of their support, Mohawk named the Gerald Marshall Centre for Transportation.

The Marshall family’s support hasn’t stopped there. They host an annual fundraising

event, which celebrated its 10th anniversary last year. This year’s event is being held on October 13 at The Grand Olympia in Stoney Creek.

The family announced, on August 16, 2017, they will donate $1.5 million in support of the skilled trades at the Stoney Creek Campus.

Through this generous support, they will continue to make a real difference for more than 4,500 apprentices and full-time students at Mohawk.

In recognition of this outstanding gift, Mohawk is honouring the family, and has named the Marshall School of Skilled Trades & Apprenticeship at the Stoney Creek Campus.

“Skilled tradespeople have been essential to the success of our family businesses and to the strength of our community. We hope our family’s support for Mohawk College inspires others to give and to pursue rewarding careers in the skilled trades.”

– Jo-Anne Spadafora

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Awards & Honours

AWARDS & HONOURS

Women’s Basketball OCAA Silver Medal

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR VARSITY ATHLETES 32 INTOUCH | Fall 2017

These teams each represented Mohawk well at the provincial and national tournaments this past spring.

Awards & Honours

Congratulations to Lucia Pilot ’75 who won a Trillium Award from the City of Hamilton for her gardening efforts at her east-end home.

Your Health and Wellness Starts at the David Braley Athletic & Recreation Centre Benefits of a community membership include: 20+ FREE fitness classes each month Access to state-of-the-art fitness centre Enjoy outdoor basketball and beach volleyball courts On-site massage therapy appointments

Congratulations to Gabriela Covaci ’10 for being named one of RBC’s Top 25 Canadian Immigrants. The annual award celebrates inspirational Canadian immigrants who have achieved success and made a difference in the community.

Complimentary early bird and evening parking

Get Started Today!

Stop by for a tour, or contact us at dbarc@mohawkcollege.ca

Alumni Membership Fee

35 +HST/month

$

Mohawk College 135 Fennell Ave W. Men’s Curling CCAA Silver Medal

mohawkcollege.ca/alumnimagazine

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ALUMNI EVENTS Alumni Weekend – Alumni Party

Spring 2017 Convocation

Meet the Grad – Tourism

Mountaineer Hall of Fame

34 INTOUCH | Fall 2017

AlumniSection Events

Alumni Nine & Dine

THANK YOU!

To kick-off Alumni Weekend, on Friday, May 26 we welcomed Mohawk grads and friends to the Alumni Nine & Dine at Flamborough Hills Golf & Country Club.

Thank you to our many sponsors for helping to make this event such a success.

COMMUNICATIONS

Hamilton/Waterdown/Brantford

www.stokom.com

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AROUND CAMPUS

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SPRING CONVOCATION 2017 SPEAKERS ALUMNI SPEAKERS (1) Mark Runciman – Architectural Technology, ‘77. CEO of Royal Botanical Gardens and Mohawk College Alumni

of Distinction recipient. (2) Michael Desnoyers – Computer Electronics Engineering, ‘84. President and CEO of Burlington-based Etratech and Mohawk College Alumni of Distinction recipient. (3) Steve Lennon – Law & Security Administration – Private Security, ‘95. Protection Specialist in the Dignitary Protection and Investigations section of the Ontario Provincial Police and Mohawk College Alumni of Distinction recipient. DISTINGUISHED FELLOWS (4) The Hon. William “Bill” Davis – Established the Ontario college system as Minister of Education and University Affairs and served as Premier of Ontario from 1971 to 1985. (5) Denise Christopherson – CEO of YWCA Hamilton.

(6) June Barber – Core member of the Textures Fine Crafts artists’ collective, Past President of the McMaster Women’s Club, a member of the Hamilton Potters’ Guild and founding benefactor of City School by Mohawk. Dr. Doug Barber – Co-founder of Linear Technology Inc. and served as President and CEO of Gennum Corporation and founding benefactor of City School by Mohawk. (7) Linda Haslam-Stroud – Nursing, ‘77. President of the Ontario Nurses’ Association (ONA). (8) Rick Hill Sr. – Curriculum Developer for the Bundled Arrows Initiative – a consortium of local universities and colleges that include Mohawk College. (9) Louie Leombruni – Electrical Engineering Technology – Control, ‘83. Manager of ArcelorMittal University’s Regional Campus at ArcelorMittal Dofasco in Hamilton. (10) Linda Marshall – Early Childhood Education, ‘82. Philanthropist, motivational speaker, President of Marshall Connects and Mohawk College Alumni of Distinction recipient. (11) Steve Stipsits – Architectural Technology, ‘84. President and Owner of Burlington-based Branthaven Homes. *The Distinguished Fellows program is by invitation only, with the title conferred and service to the college recognized during Convocation ceremonies.

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Keeping in Touch

Keeping in Touch 3 (1) Daniel Freeman (Mechanical Engineering Technology, 1967) I am happily retired and living the good life with three successful children and five grandchildren. Still proud of my alma mater! Looking to stay in touch with other mechanical graduates from 1967.

Classmates can reach out to me at danfreeman317@gmail.com

‘60s

‘70s

(2) Robert Archer (Insurance, 1970)

(3) Dave Best (Business Administration, 1971) Myself and Peter Davidson ’71 displaying our brand new Alumni hats. My wife, Margaret and I recently travelled to Riverview, New Brunswick to visit my lifelong friend Peter and his wife, Martha. We have been friends since meeting in Kindergarten 67 years ago. We are also two of the original members of “The Rising Sons,” a local rock band famous in the ‘60s.

Steven Smith (Business Administration, 1971) I retired to the beautiful Sunshine Coast of B.C. (4) James Tufford (Business Administration, 1971) Just enjoying the good life, golfing, hiking, boating, skiing, and playing pickleball.

Ann Marie Chechalk (née Rosser) (Early Childhood Education, 1972) I would love to be in touch with some of my classmates.

You don’t realize how fast life goes by until you get older. Reach out to me at chechalk@talkwireless.ca (5) Joan Mills (née Graham) (Office Administration – Legal, 1974) I’m enjoying my retirement from a lengthy career as a human resources manager. I’m also retired from Mohawk College as a CE Instructor.

Being a Mohawk College grad opened doors in the ‘70s and it continues to do so today.

Donald Pettitt (Architectural Technology, 1974) My wife, Pennie, and I happily retired on the same day in January, 2010 from careers at Brantford General Hospital.

Douglas W. Stewart (Community Planning, 1976) In April, Ontario Home Builders’ Association recognized my 15 years of volunteer work at all three levels of the Association.

(6) Kenneth Chadbolt (Child Care Worker, 1976)

(7) Joanne Bingham (née Givens) (Nursing, 1978) I retired on November 1, 2016 after 39 years of nursing. I live in Guelph with my husband of 43 years. I have five amazing grandchildren and am keeping busy enjoying new experiences such as volunteering, attending the gym as much as possible, joining the horticultural society... and of course babysitting.

Daniel Lawlor (Electronics Engineering Technology, 1980) I recently volunteered as a judge with the Bay Area Science and Engineering Fair. I am working towards a Fine Arts Certificate at Sheridan College. I took part in the Moon in June 5K race. I am working on building a wireless communication system to better control and manage our city’s traffic signal system. Finally, I am enjoying summer road trips and camping trips. Cheers!

‘80s

David Mason (Industrial Engineering Technician, 1980) After roughly 25 years working in manufacturing as an Industrial Engineer in the Hamilton area, I relocated to Cape Breton in 2010. During my time here I have worked for the federal government at Citizenship and Immigration Canada and am currently in a maintenance position with Nova Scotia Community College.

(8) Ray Scobie (Electronics Engineering Technology – Telecommunications, 1982) (9) Richard Armstrong (Industrial Management Technology, 1984) I retired after 30 years in the canadian printing industry, spending the last 15 as President of Heidelberg Canada Graphic Equipment Ltd. (10) Deborah DeVincentis (née O’Keefe) (Office Administration – Medical, 1985) Life has been good to me after Mohawk College. It gave me all the tools I needed to be successful. I’m the proud mother of three adult children. I gained a successful career in the medical administrative sector and then branched out to the full-cycle bookkeeping role for a construction company and remained there for 23 years. I wrote, edited and published my first poetry book in 2013 and took a year off to live in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

(11) Glen Greschuk (Business Administration, 1986) I recently celebrated my 25th anniversary with my wife April, on June 1, 2016.

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11 Allen D. Abbott (Electronic Engineering Technology – Computer, 1987) I had a very interesting career in automation. My education at Mohawk proved invaluable as part of my skill set.

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‘90s

(12) Timothy Dwight Morton (Business Computer Applications, 1990) I’ve spent 2017 competing in many races, including the 5K Saint Patrick’s Day Race in March, the 5K Walk for GoodLife Toronto Marathon in May and the 5K Ancaster Mill Race in June.

(13) Sue Bassett (née Skrypka) (Early Childhood Education, 1991) After spending eighteen years in the field of Early Childhood Education, I started lecturing part-time at Mohawk College, and have been there for 10 amazing years. After having a child with special needs, I co-founded a registered charity in Hamilton, ON called Opening Hearts, which is in its fifth successful year. Most recently, my role as a professional speaker has really taken off and I have delivered keynote presentations to numerous organizations and women’s groups.

Later this year, I will add published author to my accomplishments with my contribution to the new book, Goodness Abounds. positivelysue.com Shelly M. Hubbert (née Stilwell) (Recreation Leadership, 1991) I am celebrating ten years with Horizon Health Network. I have built a strong volunteer program within a hospital setting that supports many departments of a rural hospital in New Brunswick. I have been happily married for 15 years. We have three daughters.

(14) Roger J. Dockstader (Business Administration, 1992) I am keeping busy with family life and two young children always on the go!

Patricia Utley (née Forbes) (Architectural Technology, 1997) I’m just enjoying working out of my home office in my PJs. The perfect job.

(15) Richard Shaver (Environmental Science, 1999) I am a father of three boys.

I worked two years in the wine industry in Niagara, doing lab work, quality control and product development and have worked the past 16 years at INCO/Vale Canada in precious metals refining.

‘00s

Rachel Blonde (Broadcast Journalism, 2003) I recently went back to school to take a graduate certificate at Fanshawe College in Public Relations – Corporate Communications and am enjoying being back at school. I live in London.

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Brooke Beney (Recreation and Leisure Services, 2005) My business, Brooke’s Home Care, is celebrating 10 years and continues to spread the joy of recreation therapy through a unique approach to home care. We love hiring Mohawk’s Therapeutic Recreation grads and look forward to continued growth in 2017.

Agnes Abraham (Insurance, 2010) I am currently working towards a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sciences at McMaster University while working full-time.

‘10s

Laura L. Rothney (Small Business & Entrepreneurship, 2011) I met Jason Lovering and we are expecting our first baby in October 2017.

Marlene Martin (Graphic Design, 2013) I am currently enrolled in the Aboriginal Small Business Management certificate program at Mohawk.

(16) Leila Goreil (Graphic Design, 2013) After graduating from Mohawk College, I went on to work as a layout designer for Metroland Media and I am now working as a website coordinator for Becker Shoes in Collingwood, ON. I relocated to the town of Collingwood in June 2017. This past August marked my third year with Becker Shoes.

(17) Steven Cole (Mechanical Engineering Technology, 2014) Since leaving Mohawk College in 2014 I have gotten married, had two children and recently graduated with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Lakehead University. Mohawk College gave me more than just my Advanced Engineering Technology Diploma – it gave me the skills, drive and confidence to pursue something greater.

(18) Suzanne Zietsma (Social Service Worker, 2015) (19) Joshua Carvalho (Nursing BScN, 2015) I’m still very much involved with the college by being part of the Nursing Education Advisory Committee. Apart from that, I’m currently practicing in a busy emergency department at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Hamilton, completing postsecondary education to specialize in emergency nursing and exploring master’s and doctoral work with a focus in resuscitation science. When I’m not busy with my career, I’m usually travelling by taking weekend trips whenever possible and exploring the province or sometimes the greater world with hopefully a trip to Australia in the near future!

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(24) Nicole Clayton (Biotechnology Health, 2017) Currently working as a preparation and laboratory technician at Royal Canin Canada in Guelph, Ontario.

Jessica Travers (Paralegal, 2017) I’m attending McMaster University.

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(25) Rajwinder Multani (Office Administration- Medical, 2017) Struggling for a job in my current program while learning new skills by working as a volunteer in the medical environment.

(26) Wendy-Lynn Knopf (Office Administration- Medical, 2017) I am a new graduate! I am currently applying to medical office administrative jobs.

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(27) Daxton Symons (Electrical Engineering Technology, 2017)

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Katelyn Zsidi (Radio Broadcasting, 2017) After graduating I landed a position within the company I’ve wanted to work for since I started. Dreams do come true, but you need to work hard to obtain it.

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Daniela Ruggiero (Nursing – BSCN, 2015) I am exploring a nursing career and continuously learning new things – especially through continuing education at Mohawk.

Thomas Asare (Social Service Worker, 2016) I am working in an enviable organization.

(20) Jessica Brown (Graphic Design, 2016) Three years ago, I had a dream of being a business owner. Today, I have made that dream a reality. Recently, I found the ambition for fashion design, I print my artwork on scarves, purses and more! I am proud to call myself an entrepreneur, specializing in logo and print, web, digital media, paintings and illustration. Since 2016, I have participated in four art events, with a total of twenty- nine paintings sold, through various mediums. Last year was a milestone in my professional life – I had the opportunity to organize my first art show called ‘Vintage Lady’. Surrounded by the love and support of my family and friends, I am indebted to their constant generosity. Thank you!

Aaron David Chughtai (Radio Broadcasting, 2016) I am in the process of starting up my clothing company.

Lani Flores-Baide (Registered Practical Nursing, 2016) I’m going back to college for my RN degree.

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(28) Simiat Salami (Social Service Worker, 2017) I have been able to live independently.

All the skills I developed at Mohawk College help me today. Knowledge is power.

Knowledge is key to life.

Suzette Richards (Child and Youth Worker, 2016) I learned a great magnitude of skills to use as a Child & Youth Worker. My next pursuit is to add a social services certificate/ diploma to my portfolio. I want to be the best me so I am able to use the best of my abilities to help others achieve their goals and dreams.

(29) Candace Gagne (Health, Wellness and Fitness, 2017) I am getting ready for a certification in my field. I am also in the process of starting my own business related to my field of study.

Cassandra Taylor (Early Childhood Education, 2016) I am busy being an early years facilitator and a Roots of Empathy Instructor.

(31) Danyang Song (Biotechnology – Health, 2017)

Lindsay Wilton (Social Service Worker, 2016) I’m going back to school.

(21) Sagar Bhavsar (Computer Systems Technician – Software Support, 2016) Carrie-Lynne Fletcher (Accounting, 2017) I will be starting Brock University this fall to obtain my Bachelor of Accounting.

(22) Sunil Ginkala (Motive Power Technician, 2017) Being a Mohawk graduate is new in my life!

(23) Navneet Kaur (Computer System Technician - Networking System, 2017) I am an optimistic person. I will get my dream job one day. Til then, fingers crossed. “Try your best but be prepared for the rest.”

(30) Atinderpal Randhawa (Computer Systems Technician – Network Systems, 2017)

(32) Prashant Chauhan (Manufacturing Engineering Technician, 2017) (33) Sajanpreet Singh (General Arts & Science – EAP, 2017) (34) Namrata Sharma (Early Childhood Education, 2017) (35) Harleen Dorka (Advertising & Marketing Communications Management, 2017) KEEP IN TOUCH

Want your update to be included in the next issue?

Visit mohawkcollege.ca/ stayconnected

mohawkcollege.ca/alumnimagazine

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Calendar of Events

CALENDAR OF EVENTS To find out more and register for alumni events, visit mohawkcollege.ca/alumni

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

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Backpack to Briefcase: Conflict and Leadership 6:30 pm | The Arnie

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Hamilton’s Dark History – Ghost Walk | 8:30 pm start | $10.00 per person | Walk is approximately 90 minutes.

Meet at the alley behind Radius (near 151 James St. South, Hamilton)

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Alumni of Distinction Awards Dinner | 5:30 pm | Liuna Station, Hamilton, ON | See feature on page 21 for more information

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Backpack to Briefcase: Money Matters | 6:30 pm | The Arnie | Presented by Mo’ Money Resource Centre

Brushes & Bursaries 7:00 - 9:00 pm | The Arnie | $35 per person (a portion of the proceeds will be supporting The Start of Something Amazing Campaign – for Student Bursaries)

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Etiquette Dinner | 6:00 - 9:00 pm | The Arnie | $35 per person (space is limited, sign up early)

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Mohawk’s 50th TGIF Thank Goodness it’s Fifty! – A Celebration of the Decades 7:30 pm | Liuna Station

Mohawk Young Alumni Connection (MYAC) Board Game Social 7:00 - 9:00 pm | Gameopolis – Board game and lounge (223 King Street East, Hamilton) | $5.00 per person (space is limited, sign up early)

Join us for the 50th TGIF! Thank Goodness it’s Fifty! A Celebration of the Decades

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Backpack to Briefcase: Dress for Success | 6:30 pm | The Arnie | Presented by Nadine Pryce

DECEMBER 2

Children’s Holiday Party Mohawk College If you have any questions, please contact us at 905-575-2258 or alumni@mohawkcollege.ca

Come dance the night away with your friends and family!

Location: Liuna Station, 360 James St. N., Hamilton Date: Friday, November 10, 2017 Doors Open: 7:30 pm TICKETS $25 General admission $50 includes exclusive 50th Anniversary coffee table book Visit mohawkcollege.ca/50th to purchase your tickets

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 programmes.

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 programmes 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 Alumni Relations Department.

40 INTOUCH | Fall 2017

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