Mohawk College In Touch Alumni Magazine - Spring 2006 by Mohawk College Alumni Association

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IN TOUCH

SPRING 2006

A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNI & FRIENDS OF MOHAWK COLLEGE

F E A T U R E S ON THE C O V E R

A FA M I LY A F FA I R

Life, learning and the family unit come together on campus for these Mohawk grads. BY KATE SCHOOLEY

ALUMNI OF DISTINC TION AW A R D S D I N N E R With a growing number of award winners, the 9th annual Alumni of Distinction Awards Dinner was held with over 300 in attendance.

D E PA R T M E N T S Welcoming Words. . . . . . . 4 Alumni News. . . . . . . . . . 6

BY JODY MATHESON

D evelopment Update . . . . . 9 MSA News . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Alumni Vars it y . . . . . . 2 0 Around Campus . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Keeping In Touch . . . . . . . . 25 Looking B ack . . . . . . . . . . 2 6

Find out more about the Mohawk College Alumni Association! Visit us on the web at alumni.mohawkcollege.c a M O H AW K C O L L E G E A L U M N I ASSOCIATION : alumni.mohawkcollege.ca

welcoming WOR D S

STRATEGIC PLAN ENTERS FINAL PHASE MaryLynn West-Moynes, President of Mohawk College

reetings Mohawk alumni! The year 2006 promises to be one of transformation for Mohawk, as we move into the second half of the first decade of the 21st century. We are currently engaged in several exciting initiatives that promise to redefine and reposition your alma mater in new and dynamic ways. First, we continue to celebrate our vision of inspiring learning, leadership and citizenship, and to embrace our mission that students and learning are at the heart of all we do. We are entering the final phase of Vision Like A Hawk: Strategic Plan 2004 to 2007, which means that we will shortly begin to develop our strategic plan to 2010. And with over 70,000 alumni working all over the globe, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to invite you to share with us how you believe we should move forward. Currently, we are completing a Campus Master Plan for our Fennell and Stoney Creek campuses, with our eye next on Brantford and the Mohawk-McMaster Institute for Applied Health Sciences. We are lobbying our provincial, federal, and

municipal partners, and the private sector, for funding to transform our Stoney Creek campus into the Mohawk Skilled Trades & Apprenticeship Research, Resources and Training or STARRT Institute. It is our dream to double enrolment in full-time skilled trades, and increase our apprenticeship activity by 35 per cent. At the same time, we are examining the potential for a centre for insurance and financial planning at the Fennell campus, along with enhanced space for music. Our fundraising efforts continue to reach out to create more bursaries and provide increasing levels of financial assistance to our students. In November, the Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities announced a new Ontario Trust for Student Support (OTSS), which replaces the old OSOTF. The OTSS will encourage individuals and businesses to contribute to a permanent endowment fund to provide financial assistance, and will provide up to three years enhanced matching funding to institutions with endowments of below $1,000 per students enrolled in 2003-04. Based on Mohawkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

historical fundraising average, Ontario will annually match dollar for dollar the first $464,000 raised in support of OTSS, augmented by a three to one match for the next $232,000 raised, for a total fundraising ceiling of $1,160,076. Let me at this point extend our sincere gratitude to all alumni who have contributed in the past, and invite you to renew or create new bursaries for our students in the coming months. Our Mohawk Alumni Association in January hosted our first external Alumni of Distinction Awards dinner, which is well reported in this issue of In Touch. Let me just say that the event was extremely well organized, and our Alumni of Distinction recipients were moved to be recognized by their peers. When over half the audience of 300 stood up to identify themselves as Mohawk alumni, it was most gratifying and inspiring. I hope you will plan to join us next year, but of course, I expect to see many of you at the Golf Classic this spring, and at the 25th Reunion for the class of 1981 next October. Remember to stay in touch in the meantime. I look forward to meeting you at events throughout the coming year.

GROWTH, DEVELOPMENT, CELEBRATION Wendy Makey, Manager, Alumni Relations Recreation and Leadership, 1993

ooking b a c k , the year 2005 for the Mohawk College Alumni Association was a year of transition, change and progress. New staff, new board members, new programs, services, events and activities. A busy yet successful year. Three words come to mind that depict the actions of your Alumni Association Growth. Development. for 2005. Celebration. GROWTH: The Association continues 4

to grow in many ways - by the number of new graduates, by the focus and scope of events and activities, through the increase in promotion of the Association, and by the number of graduates updating their contact information so we can maintain communication. DEVELOPMENT: We continue to develop and evaluate programs, services and events for our memberships. The Alumni Board of Directors is engaged in board development and strategic planning that will provide goals and direction for the future.

CELEBRATION: A community awards dinner to celebrate the accomplishments of seven distinguished alumni, convocation ceremonies with graduates returning as Alumni speakers to share their words of encouragement and insight, and Mohawk College graduates securing employment in their chosen professions. The Alumni Association is evolving, opening doors, and building a path to a bright and prosperous future. Play an active part in the Association now. Get involved. Stay in touch.

M O H AW K C O L LEGE: IN TOUCH / SPRING 2006

IN TOUCH WORKING TOGETHER FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY

PUBLISHER Mohawk College Alumni Association

Morgan Seele, Alumni Association President

DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Copperlen IMA

Computer Systems Technology, 2000

n my role as President of your Alumni Association, I’ve had the pleasure of playing a role at our annual Alumni of Distinction Awards event this past January, and the Fall and Winter Convocations. The Alumni Awards of Distinction dinner was, by many accounts, the most successful one yet. Part of this success was due to the great planning that took place ahead of time but much was due to the overwhelming support of family and friends of the deserving award recipients. Each of the recipients was accompanied by his or her own personal support network of often more than ten people who all played at least a small role in the success of the recipient. At the most recent convocations I was struck, as I always am, by the great sense of pride in the achievements of the graduates. This pride comes not only from the graduates themselves but also overwhelmingly from their personal support network. In most cases this pride clearly emanates from the parents,

grandparents, brothers and sisters of the graduate, while in a smaller number of cases it also comes from children of the graduate. This is especially significant since it shows the child’s support of a parent’s commitment often at the cost of precious evenings and weekend time spent on their studies, rather than family time. This is also significant because it shows the trend of both a child and his/ her parent graduating from Mohawk and not always in the traditional order. A common theme between both the Alumni of Distinction Awards and our convocations is that the accomplishments of the individual are always made possible through support from family and friends. Also, they both demonstrate the perpetual commitment to life long learning and the resulting opportunities that investment creates. You should consider Mohawk College and your Alumni Association as part of your own extended support network. We’ll always be here to work together to help you and your family accomplish your goals.

ALUMNI BOARD OF DIRECTORS: 2005 - 2006 SLATE OF OFFICERS Morgan Seele, 2000 President Krysia Iwanek, 1989 Past President Susan McDonald, 2001 Vice President, Finance & Development Lidia Siino, 2002 Vice President, Marketing & Communications Sandi Richardson, 1971 Vice President, Programs & Services

Mo Mauri, 1977, Director Joanne O’Brien, 2004, Director Alex Paris, 1990, Director Gary Sawchuk, 1971, Director Michael Wall, 1976, Director Diana Zanin, 1980, Director Anthony Cascella, President, Mohawk Students’ Association

WE THANK THESE MEMBERS FOR THEIR DEDICATION AND COMMITMENT TO THE ALUMNI AND FRIENDS OF MOHAWK COLLEGE.

EDITOR Greg Chew

PHOTOGRAPHY Lisa Magaro, Sean Elley, Brian Gould, Daniel Jelly, Tara Sadler, David Dorken, Terra Nova Images, Heather Smiley, Andrew Connery CONTRIBUTORS Kate Schooley, Mary Brown, Darren Desmarais, Lynn James, Daniel Jelly, Jackie Jones, Liz Laforme, Debbie Logel Butler, Wendy Makey, Jody Matheson, Craig McPhail, Michael Regan, Bernetta Scime, Morgan Seele, Lidia Siino, Kelly Dunham, MaryLynn West-Moynes, Jayne Woods, Nadia Afrooz, Randy Miller, Lynn Smiley, Helen Maddick, Peggy Kirby, Daniel MacQueen, Cheryl Jensen, Janice Shearer, Lesley Hardsand, Barbara Wunder, Marianne Wilson, Don Burroughs, Martha Wallace, Karim Bhalwani EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD Ronald Holgerson, VP Marketing and Communications, Alumni and Development; Debbie Logel Butler, Executive Director, Development and Alumni Relations; Wendy Makey, Manager, Alumni Relations; Lidia Siino, Vice-President Marketing and Communications, Alumni Board of Directors, Kelly Dunham, Alumni Assistant, Gaye Yachetti, Administrative Assistant, VP, Lifelong Learning and Brantford CONTENT CO-ORDINATOR Kelly Dunham In Touch Magazine is published semiannually by the Alumni Relations Department at Mohawk College. This magazine is circulated to alumni and friends of Mohawk College. Ideas and opinions published or expressed in In Touch do not necessarily reﬂect those of Mohawk College, the Alumni Association, or the Editor. Publications Mail Agreement Number 40065780 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: Mohawk College Alumni Relations J013 P. O. Box 2034 Hamilton, ON L8N 3T2 To update your Alumni Record, please contact: Phone: 905-575-2258, Fax: 905-575-2443 alumni@mohawkcollege.ca or the address above. * LAST ISSUE CORRECTION: Story “Courtroom brings law to life in classroom” written by Holly Angus

M O H AW K C O L L E G E A L U M N I ASSOCIATION : alumni.mohawkcollege.ca

alumni NEW S

Our Alumni Speak!

FALL CONVOCATION 2005 Over 70,000 and still growing. Mohawk’s Fall Convocation, always an intimate affair, offers speakers with vision, passion and dedication.

SCOTT TRAPASSO,

BRENT PASZT,

BUSINESS MARKETING CO-OP, 2002

BROADCAST JOURNALISM, 1998

Brent has one of the most exciting and challenging jobs the media profession has to offer, as a live broadcast producer for Canada AM. His message to graduates came straight from the heart. “Find your mentors, but always remember to become a mentor. As you reach the top of your professional ladder, don’t forget which rung you started on. Don’t take no for an answer, and try your best not to offer it as one either.”

Scott graduated in 2002 from the Business Marketing Co-op program, and he is already a CEO of his own company, ST-Productions Inc. Today, Scott continues to add to his Mohawk education by working on his degree in Business Marketing at Laurier University. “Dreams aren’t fantasies, but something you can build your life upon.”

ALUMNI OFFICE UPDATE

Mohawk College has restructured. For the Alumni Relations Office this means movement to a new division – Marketing, Communications, Alumni & Development under the leadership of Vice President, Ronald Holgerson. The Association looks forward to working with Ronald and his team. Due to the restructuring the Association will be leaving the Community Services & Economic Development Division and the leadership of Vice President Carolyn Gray. We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Carolyn for her ongoing support over the years and we wish her all the best in her new role.

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M O H AW K C O L LEGE: IN TOUCH / SPRING 2006

Our “Informed” Newsblast

MAKES E-CONNECTIONS

f the third time is a charm, then the latest issue of “Informed” is truly blessed. As the third instalment of the quarterly e-newsletter was delivered to of over 3000 Mohawk College Alumni, feedback has proven it is a welcomed medium. “The Alumni Associations e-newsblast is great! Every three months, I get a copy e-mailed to me, and it’s good to have something keeping me updated,” says Sandi Johnston, Early Childhood Education, 2002. Positive feedback from this “new kid on the block” is a recurring theme. In fact, the e-newsletter fits nicely into a niche market. The Mohawk College Alumni Relations department states each media channel is a key component to a triumvirate of necessary mediums appealing to different types of graduates. “In Touch” is the first and most established. Due to its popularity, it will remain the media flagship that appeals to mature graduates and those who

simply enjoy a good read. Second, the Mohawk College website is a more immediate vehicle for those graduates immersed in the Web. Last but not least is “Informed”, the unobtrusive newsblast that Alumni onthe-go are drawn to. They can quickly browse for information, organize what they need to know, and then move on with the rest of their day. “It’s a perfect combination. One method of three for reaching graduates makes for a happy association,” says Lidia Siino, Vice President, Marketing and Communications. “Our Association is pleased and motivated to provide all graduates with programs and services. ‘Informed’ is one little thing we can do to show graduates we are here for them.” To view a copy of the current edition, or to subscribe to the “Informed” mailing list, please contact the Alumni Association at 905-575-2258 or email: alumni@mohawkcollege.ca.

“Coffees On” CORPORATE

COFFEE BREAKS

he Alumni Association has launched a new program hosting a Corporate Coffee Break for Mohawk College Alumni working in local businesses. To date, two successful Corporate Coffee Breaks have been held for Crawford Insurance Adjusters Canada and Hamilton Police Services, where coffee, tea and snacks were brought into the workplace. We are always looking to reconnect with our Alumni and share with you what is new and exciting. If you are involved with a business or organization that employs Mohawk College Grads, please give us a call. The coffees is on us! 905-575-2258

Sudbury Alumni

MEET AND GREET

n Saturday, February 18, 2006, a wine and cheese reception for alumni was hosted at the Holiday Inn with member colleges: Centennial, Humber, Confederation, Cambrian, Seneca, Loyalist, Sault, Fanshawe, St. Lawrence, Canadore, Sheridan, and of course, Mohawk College, in attendance. Alumni and Advancement staff were thrilled when one of the attendees turned out to be a 1968 graduate of Mohawk’s parent school, the Hamilton Institute of Technology (HIT), who brought along a couple of cherished school items to display. The Alumni Association would like to thank our Sudbury alumni Jim Carpenter, 1968, Industrial Engineering Technology, Phyliss-Anne Holdaway, 1970, Architechural Technology and Patrick Newey, 1970, Civil Engineering Technology for making the effort to come out, share their stories and keep in touch. We look forward to meeting and greeting grads in Ottawa and surrounding areas this June!

Alumni Association

Annual

General Meeting

Tuesday, September 19th, 2006 Alumni Hall Registration & Reception - 5:30 p.m. Meeting - 6:00 p.m. Please RSVP by September 13th, 2006 (905) 575-2258 or email alumni.mohawkcollege.ca

M O H AW K C O L L E G E A L U M N I ASSOCIATION : alumni.mohawkcollege.ca

alumni NEW S

THE 25 YEAR CLUB

AN INSIDERS STORY It’s a strange coincidence because, just in time for my induction to the 25 Year Club, I began working for the Alumni Relations department, Wendy Makey, Manager, Alumni Relations, encouraged me to attend the reunion as a grad – not an employee. So with my fellow alumni, I got to enjoy myself. And we did. First thing a 1980 grad would notice immediately was that the Arnold Centre had changed – a lot. We were used to getting cozy in what is now known as The Cellar; the Arnie hadn’t been built yet. Yes, there were lots of changes to take in. That’s where the tours came in handy. Thanks to Anthony Cascella, current President, of Mohawk Students’ Association, who came by to take everyone around to see their old haunts and fill us in on everything that has happened to the college since we left. As a Business graduate, my own academic home was the “A-wing” – often out of sight and mind in the Mohawk culture of the late ‘70s and early ‘80s. But interesting to note that although the punch card room has gone the way of the Dodo bird and beta, a descendent of my indispensable coffee machine is still there, around the corner in “J-wing”, which incidentally, wasn’t here then either. After reacquainting over drinks and hors d’oeuvres, we were ready to sit and begin a great dinner. I sat with other business grads; Michael, Henry, Don, their spouses, and was joined by Rick Knowles, our past Statistics professor. Needless to say, there were a few stories making the rounds. Pleasantly topped up, we sat back to receive best wishes from Mohawk President MaryLynn West-Moynes and Morgan Seele, President of the Alumni Association. We were an intimate crowd so what better form of entertainment than a comedian, local Donny Coy. Thank you Donny, for keeping the “old” jokes to a minimum – I don’t think that any of us are feeling particularly aged or 8

Story by: Lynn James

ABOVE: Lynn James is a Business Administration graduate 1980. She’s the one with the red alumni jacket agonizingly close to the cake in the front row, left.

decrepit. Some traditions never go out of style, because the best part of the evening was going back to The Cellar – or the Arnold Centre to us. Black sharpies in hand, we eagerly added our own personal graffiti on the bricks of

the now, much warmer cells of the old root cellar. Afterward, with 25 Year pen and keychain sets in hand, and new Alumni and 25 Year Club pins, we said our goodbyes with a piece of cake and gorgeous, unique sugar cookies elegantly detailed with “25 Year Club” on them. They were almost a shame to eat. I wear my pins now on my ID lanyard and display my diploma above my desk. Twenty-five years ago, I left without a backward glance. Now, I have the age and experience to appreciate what I left here with – and what I bring back to it.

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NERVES OF

STEEL Joe Kubes of Kubes Steel finds success through lifetime learning

ALSO INSIDE

MAKEOVER MADNESS SAILING IMITATES LIFE BUILDING SUCCESS

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M O H AW K C O L LEGE: IN TOUCH / SPRING 2006

development U P D AT E Debbie Logel Butler Executive Director, Development and Alumni Relations Early Childhood Education,1981

BURSARIES NOURISH

STUDENTS SUCCESS

n 1996, the Province of Ontario can help escape the cycle of poverty. by three to one (meaning for every dollar announced for the first time their Mohawk’s vision is inspiring learning, raised it will be matched by three dollars) plans to create a fund to assist leadership and citizenship, however, we up to a total of $232,000. So we need our help to raise $464, 000 + $232, 000 which those students attending when matched will result in colleges and university. This $696, 000. fund was called the Ontario As proud graduates of Student Opportunity Trust Mohawk College, we each Fund (OSOTF). At Mohawk share a commitment to College, over 3 million dollars providing opportunities for was raised (resulting in a $6 students, and to help Ontario million endowment fund) raise the level of participation that continues to provide in post secondary education over three hundred $1,000 from 50% of the population dollar entrance scholarships. to 70% of the population. Between 1997 and 1999, Bursary assistance definitely the Mohawk College Alumni ABOVE: 2005 OSOTF STUDENT AWARD CEREMONY will level the playing field for Association was the largest prospective students, and we single donor to this campaign “GOVERNMENT OF ONTARIO need to make every effort to with a gift of $150,001 dollars. maximize the incentive Ontario Since 1999, the Alumni ANNOUNCES A SECOND MATCHING FUNDS is offering because students and Association has awarded 66 PROGRAM FOR STUDENT BURSARIES” learning are at the heart of all OSOTF awards for a total of we do. $66,000 in student financial support. can only inspire if we can ensure access to This is a wonderful opportunity to reach Today, those alumni dollars continue to the many excellent programs we provide. out to over 70,000 Mohawk Alumni and annually support approximately ten first Last November, the Government of assist not only the students of today but and second year students. Ontario announced a new Ontario Trust future Mohawk graduates. We will be in Over the past ten years College tuition for Student Support (OTSS) program, touch early in 2006 to seek your pledge has risen significantly over 60%. Today, whereby contributions to our bursary to this new and vital campaign. many of our current and prospective endowment will be matched dollar-forFor more information on how you students live in greater Hamilton, where dollar until we reach a first annual ceiling can be a part of the new OTSS Bursary 20% of residents live below the Low of $464,000. In addition once we reach Campaign and give the gift that keeps Income Cut Off, and for whom education that ceiling, our match will be increased on giving, please call 905-575-2482.

BURSARIES NOURISH STUDENTS SUCCESS M O H AW K C O L L E G E A L U M N I ASSOCIATION : alumni.mohawkcollege.ca

feature story

M O H AW CO L LEGE: INphotos TOUCH SPRING 2006 and david dorken photography by K jody matheson by /terra nova images

feature story: celebrating Mohawk’s distinguished Alumni

The night was certainly distinct.

ith a growing number of award winners, the 9th annual Alumni of Distinction Awards Dinner was held on Thursday, January 26, 2006. Over 300 alumni and guests attended including MP, David Christopherson, NDP Critic for Labour, Dr. Marie Bountrigianni, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Mayor Marie Trainer, Haldimand County, Terry Whitehead, City of Hamilton and former distinction winners in support of this year’s nominees. The over-whelming success and prestige of previous years, guided by the dinner event was moved to Michelangelo’s Banquet Centre, the first time the event has been held off campus. Hosted by former Alumni of Distinction winner, Connie Smith, guests were entertained with video clips of each winner before their acceptance speech. The evening raised over $6000 through ticket sales, silent auction and sponsorships. These funds will be matched by the government in a new Ontario scholarship funding initiative (OTSS), thus providing $12,000 towards bursaries for students and future Alumni SEATED: DAVID CHRISTOPHERSON, MP, COUNCILLOR TERRY WHITEHEAD, of Distinction. PRESIDENT WEST-MOYNES, DR. MARIE BOUNTRIGIANNI , MPP Special thanks to our many sponsors who helped STANDING: MAYOR MARIE TRAINER, GARY BEVERAGE, MORGAN SEELE, make the night a success through their generosity. SHERRI WOODS AND CONNIE SMITH Congratulations to Sandi Richardson, Vice President, Programs and Services and Alumni Relations staff and students, who put together an event, and a night to remember for Mohawk’s grads.

FOR FULL PROFILES OF ALL ALUMNI OF DISTINCTION AWARDS WINNERS, PLEASE CHECK ONLINE AT HTTP://ALUMNI.MOHAWKCOLLEGE.CA.

Marni Flaherty

John Marshall

David Dishke

COMMUNITY SERVICES Deeply committed to serving the needs of families and children in the Hamilton and Halton regions, Marni Flaherty is the Chief Executive Officer of Today’s Family – Caring for Your Child. Under Marni’s leadership, Today’s Family has grown from a small agency with a $500,000 budget and few staff to a major social service agency, with a budget of $7.5 million delivering programs and services to over 3,000 children and families each year. Today’s Family is a “centre of excellence” in childcare in Ontario operating high quality child care centres, licensed home day care and family resource centers.

TECHNOLOGY

BUSINESS

“Our product is steel. Our strength is people” is the mission statement of Hamilton’s Dofasco, a company that prides itself on its commitment to its employees. Excellence in human resource management is integral to the company’s competitive edge and, for 30 years, John Marshall has been a key member of Dofasco’s Human Resources Department. Over the past 12 years, John’s work has focused primarily on Leadership Development, Team Building, and Organizational Development

“Listen to what people are saying and give them what they want” is the business philosophy of David Dishke, Owner/Manager of Grand River Home Hardware in Caledonia. For over fifteen years, it has been David’s goal to send every customer away happy and, under his management, the Grand River Home Hardware has flourished. Sales have increased by 70% and David has been able to withstand growing competition from hardware chains.

M O H AW K C O L L E G E A L U M N I ASSOCIATION : alumni.mohawkcollege.ca

feature story Andrew Murie

Matt Hayes

COMMUNITY SERVICES Reporting to the Nat ional B o ard, Andrew directs the Canadian operations of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). He is resp onsible for government relations at the federal and provincial levels, coordination of public affairs and major media campaigns, and provision of client services to over 70 local chapters across Canada. Andrew supervises a national staff of 19 employees, managing relationships with other national organizations and ensuring effective controllership of an annual operating budget of $14.5 million dollars. Under his leadership, MADD Canada has experienced significant growth. Revenues have increased by 400%, donors have increased by 300% and the number of local chapters has increased by 150%.

CREATIVE ARTS AND DESIGN Matt Hayes, CH News at Noon and News at Six We a t h e r c a s t e r , is one of the busiest and most recognized men in the Hamilton community. Radio, television, theatre, newspaper, advertising, Matt does it all. A true media personality, his winning style has been the basis for a successful and fulfilling career. For the past several years, Matt has won accolades as Favourite TV and Radio Personality in The Hamilton Spectator’s annual Reader’s Choice Poll. In addition to his famous roving weather reports on CH, Matt also gained recognition as the pressroom host at the annual Juno Awards ceremony.

Earl Clarke

Paul Stratford

RECENT GRADUATE An honours from graduate Chemical the Engineering Te c h n o l o g y Program with an overall grade point average of 95%, Earl Clarke received the Mohawk College Gold Me dal for academic excellence at the 2005 Winter Convocation. Earl is recognized not only for his outstanding scholastic accomplishments, but also for his leadership and citizenship in the College’s Peer Mentoring Program. The most sought-after Peer Mentor in the department, Earl contributed 15-20 hours per week for the last three years, mentoring over 30 students in a variety of courses including General Chemistry, Physics, Electricity and Electronics, Analy t ical Chemi st r y, Org anic Chemistry and Mathematics. His involvement in this program was pivotal to the academic success and retention of these students. Mature students and those with learning disabilities were particularly fond of Earl and appreciated his compassionate nature when overcoming learning challenges. 12

HEALTH SCIENCES In the ranks of Canada’s leading physiother apists, Paul Stratford is a pioneer in evidenceb ase d pr a c t ice. A Professor of Epidemiology and Biostatistics in the Faculty of Health Sciences at McMaster University and an Associate on the Scientific and Affiliate staff of Sunnybrook and Women’s College Health Sciences Centre, Paul is well-known for his work in the clinical application of measurement to the field of rehabilitation. Our “measurement/statistical guru” is how colleagues on Physiotherapy Canada’s editorial team describe Paul. An accomplished researcher and clinician, he is the recipient of an unprecedented five Silver Quill Awards from the Canadian Physiotherapy Association. Paul has dedicated his life’s work to creating new tools to enhance the physiotherapy profession in Canada and internationally.

SUPPORTERS OF AWARD RECIPIENT PAUL STRATFORD

SEATED: SANDRA IRELAND, BRENDA FLAHERTY, ANNETTE AQUIN, ALLAN GREVE, KAREN LOGAN STANDING: DON BURROUGHS, KAREN PRINE, KEN PRINE AND HOLLY PRINE

2006

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS

Alumni of Distinction Awards The Alumni of Distinction Awards honour the outstanding contribution that Mohawk College Alumni make to their communities and professions. Award recipients may go on to become candidates for the Premier’s Awards. If you know an alumnus who possesses unique career achievements, is committed to helping others, and has made an extraordinary contribution to society, please contact us! Categories include: New Graduate - Business Community Service - Technology Health Sciences - Creative Arts and Design

NOMINATE AN ALUMNUS TODAY! Visit the Alumni website at alumni.mohawkcollege.ca/awards to view past recipients and to download a nomination form, or telephone the Alumni Relations Ofﬁce 905-575-2258 for more information. DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION: June 1, 2006

M O H AW K C O L LEGE: IN TOUCH / SPRING 2006

NEW, EXCITING CAREERS!

Apply now for September! EXPLORE new career opportunities in: • Advanced Security Management* • Autism and Behavioural Science* • Comic Design and Scripting* • Educational Assistant • Event Management – Convention and Meeting* • Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Techniques • Insurance – Customer Service Administration

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• • •

International Business Management* Motive Power Technician Public Relations* * Graduate Certiﬁcates

FOR MORE INFORMATION on these and other career opportunities at Mohawk College, please call 905-575-2000, toll free 1-866-410-4795 or email: admissions@mohawkcollege.ca C

O H AW K C O L L Eat G Ethe A L Uheart M N I ASSOCIATION : alumni.mohawkcollege.ca Students &Mlearning are of all we do.

cover story

family

Affair

Life, learning and the family unit come together on campus for these Mohawk grads

THE BORGER FAMILY TOP: FRANK & RICHARD BOTTOM: WILMA, RICK & LINDA

by kate schooley photos by lisa magaro

usk was settling over the peaceful bedroom community of Beamsville, Ontario on a hot summer evening late last August. Business on the main drag had slowed to a trickle. Things seemed pretty ordinary, until a sudden barrage of cannon fire ripped through the sky with the sound and fury of an 1812 loyalist offensive. There’s nothing like an explosion to draw a crowd in a quiet corner of a peacekeeping nation, and this was no exception. Friends and neighbours remember the impressive display of mortar power unleashed on the front lawn of the Borger family home, as do the police, who had been warned to expect a few frantic phone calls. Local media outlets, including The Hamilton Spectator, showed up at the ordinarily quiet house on Edward Street to see student Richard Borger fire the one-of-a-kind reproduction mortar that he and schoolmate Ryan Kirouac had crafted as the major project of their Materials Engineering Technology diplomas, before graduating from Mohawk College in the fall. Those in attendance had come to enjoy the show – and to witness history in the making: this was the first authentic, battleworthy mortar that had been constructed in Canada in over 200 years. The mortar’s gleaming finish and intricate detail were impressive, as was the fact that it could launch a five-pound iron shell the better part of a mile. But what most people didn’t realize was that for the Borger clan, it was just another chapter in a family history marked by natural curiosity and a driving desire to learn. For the Borgers, Mohawk College has been an integral part of learning and life in general, for longer than they’ve been a family. The entire household -- parents Rick and Wilma, along with their grown kids Linda, Frank and Richard – are all Mohawk graduates, and have attended the College in one form or another over the course of thirty years. The family’s connection to Mohawk actually begins a generation before the cannon incident. Back in the early seventies, Rick Borger – known as Rinke to his friends back home -- was a newly landed Dutch immigrant. He had set out

cover story: a family affair to enjoy a three-month Canadian holiday with his brother before deciding to build a future here. Rick had been an automotive apprentice in Holland and was able to find work at an import car dealership in Stoney Creek, but because his professional certification wasn’t recognized abroad, he was relegated to what he describes as “grease monkey” status – and knew he could go further. After passing his grade twelve equivalency in Canada, he decided to go back to school. Rick was accepted into Mo h aw k’s a p p re n t i ce s h i p program at the Fennell Campus. Though well versed in the practical aspects of automotive repair, the written exam would prove to be a challenge for him. Rick had learned English pretty much on the fly, through reading and conversation in the few years since he had landed on Canadian soil. The written language was new to him, and he was forced to work through his exam

nursing school and Mohawk College. “I started in 1972, and the next year, the Schools of Nursing were phased out as the Colleges took over these programs. So that’s how I ended up being a part of Mohawk. I graduated from there.” For Rick and Wilma, their lives since their 1976 graduation have been full of the blessings and challenges that accompany a growing family. From across the table in their sunlit kitchen, these College sweethearts reminisce about the early days, and how much things have changed since they first studied at Mohawk three decades ago. Rick has completed a wide array of continuing education courses since then. Wilma switched career tracks while their family was young in order to spend more time at home, but never stopped expanding her own horizons. Hitting the books in her spare time, she learned the Dewey Decimal System and accepted a job at the

“For the Borgers, Mohawk College has been an integral part of learning and life in general, for longer than they’ve been a family. ” with a pocketbook of English-Dutch translations as his constant companion, much to the amusement of his teacher. But the challenges he faced made success that much sweeter, and Rick carries fond memories of those early days at College. “I really enjoyed Mohawk,” he recounts with a smile. “It’s one of the best schools around. I met my wife there, and well, here we are.” Rick’s acceptance into Mohawk was only one of the serendipitous events that brought he and his wife, Wilma, together. After all, she met her husband studying at a school in which she hadn’t even enrolled. “I ended up going to the Hamilton Civic Hospitals School of Nursing,” explains Wilma, showing off an unusual diploma that bears the seals of both the

nearby Jordan Christian School as a parttime librarian and secretary. She notes that a school environment still gives her ample opportunity to draw on her nursing skills. As parents, the Borgers have placed a strong priority on nurturing their children’s desires to learn about the world around them, and have taught by example the value of education and a strong work ethic. It’s a lesson that each of the children have taken to heart: as of last year, all three of the younger Borgers have graduated into the proud family of Mohawk College alumni. “All of our kids have inquiring minds,” says Wilma. “They want to learn about how things work the way they do.” And indeed, whether the subject matter is animal, mineral, or mechanical the things

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cover story

COLLEGE SWEETHEARTS WILMA AND RICK BORGERS IN 1974

that inspire interest seem to have roots embedded firmly in the Borger family tree. Wilma’s father was an engineer; so, too, are their sons. She trained as a registered nurse, and their daughter has followed in her footsteps. Meanwhile, Rick’s mechanical expertise has rubbed off on all three kids. Having taken a wide array of continuing education courses at Mohawk since his apprenticeship, Rick stays abreast of the latest developments in automotive repair, and passes this knowledge on to his children at every available opportunity. The changing nature of brake systems, steering, alignment, hydraulics and electronics have presented endless opportunities for the Borgers to learn as a family, especially when the boys were teenagers and had a penchant for burning out the clutch on their car in pursuit of off-roading adventures. When it was time for each child to consider their post-secondary education, Rick and Wilma were careful not to force the issue of choosing a school. They knew in their hearts that Mohawk was a topnotch institution, but encouraged their kids to investigate their own interests and options. One by one, the children came to the same conclusion their parents had reached a generation earlier. For daughter Linda, the decision to attend Mohawk was an easy one – it was 16

the only College in the area that had a fulltime practical nursing program. Linda had long planned to work in the area of health care, following in her mother’s footsteps. She considered veterinary medicine for a while, but opted to pursue a career in practical nursing after gaining first-hand experience in the field. “I started working in the dietary department of a nursing home and enjoyed it,” says Linda. But unwilling to let his daughter downplay her talents, her proud Dad jumps in. “She was working with the elderly from the age of 15,” explains Rick. “I arrived to pick her up from work one day, and was amazed at how gentle and caring she was with the patients. She truly has a gift.” Linda’s parents weren’t the only ones to recognize her talents in the nursing field. During her time studying at the Chedoke Campus in the days before MoMac (the Mohawk College-McMaster University Bachelor of Science nursing program), she excelled despite the rigors of the yearlong diploma that has since morphed into a two-and-a-half year program. “We had ten months of study along with two months of pre-graduate clinical work,” explains Linda. “The teachers were very good, but it was very intense, it was my whole life. I know at one point I was tempted to quit my job, but I had to keep going because my job gave me some break time!” In the end, the high-pressure environment turned out to be a gem. Linda graduated in 1997, earning the F.A. Davis Award for Excellence in Nursing Theory. She now works with St. Joe’s Home Care, administering palliative care and tending to those who have been released from hospital – an ideal position for someone who enjoys a high level of patient contact. Meanwhile, she pursues continuing education studies as opportunity allows, updating her knowledge in such areas as diabetic treatment and wound care. Having taken courses at a number of colleges, she stands by the value of the education offered at her alma mater. “I like it better at Mohawk, but I can’t really put my finger on why,” muses Linda. “The courses elsewhere just don’t get at the information we need in the same way, and Mohawk offers a much wider selection of courses in Health Sciences.”

Of course, the school’s close proximity is another plus. “We’re Dutch, you know,” laughs Wilma, referring to the family’s willingness to reap the financial savings of studying in town when opportunity allows. With three graduates in the family, Mohawk certainly has a proven track record in the Borger household. But that hasn’t stopped the children from investigating the other avenues open to them. With his strong penchant for academics, their son Frank initially had his eye on an engineering degree from McMaster University. Surprisingly, it was an orientation visit to the Mac campus that sold him on the practical aspects of Mohawk’s Civil Engineering Technology program, over the more theoretical slant of the university curriculum. “When I went to Mac, they had a bunch of former graduates lined up so we could talk to them,” Frank explains. “One of them asked me straight up whether I wanted to sit behind a desk all day. I said ‘no’, and he said ‘then don’t go to Mac!’” It didn’t take long for Frank to know for sure that he had made the right decision. He found the program at Mohawk easy to learn, and to apply. It all came into focus for him one weekend when he was visiting a friend enrolled in the Faculty of Engineering at University

WILMA BORGERS AT THE SCHOOL OF NURSING IN 1972 BEFORE MOHAWK TOOK OVER THE NURSING PROGRAMS

M O H AW K C O L LEGE: IN TOUCH / SPRING 2006

cover story: a family affair of Waterloo – a program acclaimed Initiatives Limited (PEIL) in Hamilton. consultation service on the side, offering nation-wide for its engineering degrees. The technical and computer courses in everything from networking solutions to “I went up to Waterloo in the beginning the Mohawk program have served him training and website development. of my second year to see what it was like,” well, and he found the surveying training While Frank’s strengths lie in the remembers Frank, “and I was technical and theoretical areas, tutoring other students by the his brother Richard favours end of the weekend. It seemed the versatility and hands-on like they couldn’t visualize training afforded by his Mohawk anything. I was trying to explain education. “Small classes and things to them, to help them get practical training make all the through their applied mechanics difference,” notes Richard. “Labs questions, calculating stress for or seminars with 10 or fifteen punching through metal and people just wouldn’t be feasible things like that. I sat in class, in a University setting.” and they were asking the same In the beginning, Richard question, over and over. The Borger had little interest in professor even drew a picture on a university education. He the board, and they still didn’t had his sights set on Mohawk get it. So I turned to my friend, College because the rest of the and I said ‘why don’t you guys family were happy with their get this kind of stuff?’ And all she experience there. Always one said was, ‘I don’t know.’” to pursue a variety of interests, For Frank, his training at Richard completed Mohawk’s Mohawk had immediate payoff. 3-year Mechanical Engineering The day after his graduation in BACK ROW: BRAD BOWNAN, FOUNDRY PROFESSOR, ROGER program, then studied Materials 2005, he landed a job with the JEFFRIES, FOUNDRY TECHNICIAN, GLEN SMITH, GUN COMMANDER, Engineering Technology. At his FIRST LINCOLN ARTILLERY Quartek Group, an engineering FRONT ROW: RICHARD BORGER, RYAN KIROUAC graduation, Richard received firm in Niagara-on-the-Lake, a gold medal for academic where he worked as an inspector on the to be a tremendous advantage on the achievments and participation in extraWelland Canal Trail. Early this spring, he job. His ease with technology has also curricular activities, many of which have made the move to Planning & Engineering allowed him to set up his own computer carved out new career opportunities for

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cover story him. Currently, Richard puts his technical knowledge and love of woodworking to use as a volunteer shop teacher for grades seven and eight, working alongside his mother at Jordan Christian School. He also participates in historical reenactments with the 1st Lincoln Artillery – up to a dozen each year. And that’s where the cannon comes in. Always a history buff, Richard’s dream of building a mortar took root in the summer of 2004, at a Canada Day historic military re-enactment at Charles Daley Park in Lincoln, Ontario. Having been bitten by what he calls the “metal-casting bug” at Mohawk, he set out to combine his technical expertise, his passion for Canadian history, and of course, the sheer excitement of blowing things up. He credits Mr. Bowman for encouraging his cannon-building idea when others may have considered it too far out in left field. “I went to him and told him that I wanted to cast a cannon,” Richard explains. “Mr. Bowman just said ‘alright, show me how you’re going to do it.’” So the youngest of the Borger clan set to work assembling a business plan. He brought in a mortar used by his artillery group and had it scanned on the foundry computers. Months of work and $3,500 of personal savings went into the design of his finely detailed, highly polished historic reproduction. And though the project demanded plenty of research from Richard, the College was also a great source of support. “The staff were very helpful, co-ordinating facilities at the various campuses and even having the cannon on display for Red Carpet Day, where it generated quite a stir.” In other words, Richard may have the opportunity to produce cannons on contract for a number of historic societies. Not surprisingly, his efforts are currently being bogged down by the red tape involved in producing something considered to be a functional weapon. But for Richard, it’s not about making money anyway -- he revels in the production process. Early on, he had his sights set on a career in a foundry, but his asthma prevented his dreams from materializing. Unhappy with the prospect of an office job, Richard looked to his professors at Mohawk for inspiration. He decided to be a teacher 18

– another chance at a hands-on career – and is currently studying at Brock University in St. Catharines with plans to teach Physical Education. As he develops his teaching style, Richard is constantly drawing techniques from his Mohawk professors. “I find myself taking a lot of pointers from the College guys. They were very personable and interested,” he notes. “You model yourself a lot on them,” his

Richard’s unique and engaging teaching style has found him doing everything from lighting light bulbs in a microwave, to establishing his classroom as a profitable wood-manufacturing outfit that fundraises for the private school. His love of metal casting has found a niche as well – his students have visited Mohawk’s foundry, along with one of the foundry sites Richard attended on a co-op placement.

As he develops his teaching style, Richard is constantly drawing techniques from his Mohawk professors. Mom replies. As any mother would, Wilma admits that when Richard began teaching, she found herself working a few doors down, but with one ear tuned to his shop class. “I thought the grade seven’s and eight’s would eat him alive,” she recalls. “But he really knows how to connect with the kids.”

“My goal is to give them a bit of exposure to life after high school, even though they’re not there yet,” says Richard. His father, Rick, agrees that kids need to see where their schooling and their dreams can take them. “Life is a learning process. If you don’t want to be left behind, you’ve got to keep learning.”

M O H AW K C O L LEGE: IN TOUCH / SPRING 2006

msa UPD AT E

MSA STUDENT ELECTIONS AND WINTER CARNIVAL A BIG SUCCESS This year 26 students ran for various positions on the Mohawk Students’ Association (MSA), the Students’ Athletics Committee (SAC), as well as Student Governor (Board of Governors), representing a 50% increase in candidates over last year’s election. All candidates ran excellent campaigns and with a big push to promote the election, voter turnout was a record 1,033 - beating last year’s turnout by 66%. Voting took place on-line through the Mocomotion email and information system with the support of the College STUDENTS ENJOYING A JOUSTING CONTEST IT Department. Congratulations DURING WINTER CARNIVAL go out to all the winners, including new MSA President for 2006-2007, Jason beginning to the New Year. The band Lee and Student Governor – Elect, Arun “Theory of a Deadman” graced the Arnie Jacob. The terms of office for the MSA stage and played to over 400 people. and SAC will begin on May 1st, with the Common Hours in the McIntyre Theatre Student Governor duties beginning in continue to grow with an average of 800 September. students attending Wednesdays at noon. Winter Carnival 2006 was the perfect The very popular hypnotist Tony Lee

also came for a visit and attracted more than 400 students to the Arnie. Screams of laughter echoed the entire evening as Tony suggested students do various crazy and wild stunts. To end off a very successful week, we had the band “Panik” entertain in the Arnie for a free daytime show. They provided hours of cover tunes and some select original songs. A MSA Carnival Day is currently being planned, which will include festive activities in the Student Centre. Remember - Alumni are more than welcome to attend evening events. ID cards with an alumni sticker or a replacement alumni card are required for admittance. Come on out to have a bit of fun and reminisce of the days you spent at Mohawk College! For information about other MSA events visit our website at: www.mohawkcollege.ca/msa/events/

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alumni VARSI T Y MOHAWK MOUNTAINEERS FALL RECAP Touch Football The Mountineers came home from Oshawa with a silver medal at the OCAA’s. They were edged 32-29 by St Lawrence College of Kingston on October 16. Mohawk’s Brad Dilks was named defensive MVP of the tournament.

MEN’S TOUCH FOOTBALL TEAM

Women’s Fastball

Women’s Soccer The women’s team, coached by Renzo Castellani, won the bronze medal when they knocked off twotime defending champion Durham in a penalty shootout. Nicole Brohman’s goal at 30 minutes held up until the dying moments when the Lords equalized. After 30 minutes of scoreless sudden death extra time, game MVP Brittany Dobbin scored on the fifth and deciding “spot kick” to give the Mountaineers their medal.

Mountaineers captured a bronze medal in the rain-plagued competition. Brian Weller’s charges needed only five innings to whip Canadore 10-0 as the game was ended by the “mercy rule.” Krystal Eckersall had a two hitter and catcher Pam Cassano capped a great career with a four RBI performance. Cassano and rookie Jenny Koschanow were named to the OCAA All-Star Team. BRITTANY DOBBIN OF THE WOMEN’S SOCCER TEAM

DANA STECKLE OF THE WOMEN’S FASTBALL TEAM

Memorable Performances In Men’s soccer, Robbie Bonitatibus and Adnan Bajramovic were named West Region All-Stars and Scott MacLeod was selected as Canadian Colleges Athletic Association Male Soccer Player of the Month for Ontario. Mohawk played host to the OCAA Rugby Championship in October. The Mountaineers squad finished with two wins and a draw, just out of the playoff picture. The Cross Country team came fourth in the team competition at the OCAA Championship in Kingston. CROSS COUNTRY TEAM FOURTH AT THE OCAA CHAMPIONSHIP

KWAKU ABOAGVE OF THE MEN’S SOCCER TEAM

At the Canadian championships in Peterborough in November, Tama Stainton won a silver medal as part of the Ontario team, posting the team’s best time in the process. M O H AW K C O L LEGE: IN TOUCH / SPRING 2006

MOUNTAINEERS

Alumni WEEKEND HAP HOLMAN BONSPIEL

The weekend of January 28, 2006 saw school students. The morning draw a number of Mohawk Alumni returning was followed by lunch and a second to the College to participate in alumni draw in the afternoon. Evie Holman sports events. The annual Hap was on hand to enjoy the day with Holman Curling Bonspiel was held at former players. the Glendale Golf and Country Club under a different format this year. Along with our Alumni and current curling team members, there were colleges from the area as well as a couple of high schools. The invitation to area high schools was initiated this year to introduce college WENDY MAKEY, EVIE HOLMAN AND KELLY DUNHAM AT THE ANNUAL curling to our local high HAP HOLMAN BONSPIEL

nd ANNUAL

Mohawk College Golf Classic for alumni, employees and friends of the college

Friday, June 9, 2006 CENTURY PINES GOLF CLUB Flamborough, Ontario

Book your foursome today!

$120 INCLUDES: green fees, cart, driving range, team photo, hot buffet breakfast, lunch, registration gift and a prize for every golfer. Plus specialty holes, door prizes and silent auction.

Contact the Alumni Relations Ofﬁce to register call: 905-575-2258 or email: alumni@mohawkcollege.ca

ALUMNI BASKETBALL ACTION At the Fennell Campus, the men and women’s Alumni basketball games took place. Mohawk men’s coach Brian Jonker, donned the shoes and participated. Although worried about how his knees would hold up it was Jason Newton who ended up getting the attention from the therapist. In the women’s game, the “Old Girls” took on the “Young Ones” and with the help of our favourite referees the “Old Girls” were able to pull off the 2-point win. The games where followed by a luncheon. All who participated had a great time. We missed Shannon Pegg this year as she had a baby. We wish Shannon and her family all the best and look forward to seeing her next year. Following our lunch many of the participants stayed to watch our Varsity Men’s and Women’s Basketball teams in action against St. Clair College from Windsor. The Mohawk women were victorious in a 71-67-overtime win. The men’s team didn’t fair as well in spite of the high scoring game losing to St. Clair 105 – 93. Check out our website for all the latest information on our Varsity Athletes: http://athletics.mohawkcollege.ca

The Mohawk

Mountaineers

Hall of Fame

Established in 1988, recognizes outstanding athletic accomplishments and contributions by individuals since 1967. Recognized categories include Builder, Coach and Athlete. Friday, June 9, 2006 6:30 p.m. – Reception 7:00 p.m. – Awards Presentation North Cafeteria, Mohawk College For tickets or information, please contact Bernetta at 905-575-2004 or email bernetta.scime@mohawkcollege.ca

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around CAMP U S

FENNELL CAMPUS

IAHS CAMPUS

CARDIOVASCULAR PROFESSIONALS – AT THE “HEART” OF SUCCESS

2006 MARKETING

CHALLENGE

he Mohawk College Marketing Challenge has become quite an event at the college. This year, on May 17th, top marketing students from Hamilton and area high schools will compete in several key events including a marketing job interview, a sales presentation, a “Marketing Quiz” bowl, two marketing case studies, new product development, and the always exciting, retail window displays. “The competition has been growing every year,” says Janice Shearer, Coordinator. “It’s a wonderful way to expose high school students to what Mohawk has to offer.” There are still sponsorship opportunities available. If you or your company would like to offer support either through sponsorship or volunteering, contact Janice Shearer, Professor, Marketing at 905-5751212 Ext. 3302, or by email at janice. shearer@mohawkcollege.ca or the Student Event Coordinator, Chelsea Smith, at 905-575-1212 Ext 3619, chelsea.smith@mohawkcollege.ca. 22

MOHAWK COLLEGE IAHS GRAD EARNS PRESTIGIOUS PUBLICATION AWARD

CARDIOVASCULAR TECHNICIAN SUDENT MANNING “BUY A HEART TO SAVE A HEART” BOOTH.

alentines Day was also National Cardiology Day and Cardiovascular Technician students had a lot of fun celebrating. Raising funds for the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario, the students held a raffle – “Buy a heart to save a heart” – which raised $300.00. Educational materials and displays covered topics such as coping with stress, eating right and controlling blood pressure.

ed Scott, a professor in Medical Imaging at IAHS and a 1994 graduate of the program, was published in the Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography and has been recognized with the Kenneth R. Gottesfeld, 2nd place prize for his article. The award was instituted in 1986 to recognize three outstanding articles published during the year. The Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, which publishes the journal, is an organization with worldwide membership. Closer to home, Ted was also a 2nd place recipient of the Canadian Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers Excellence in Ultrasound Award in 2004. An active member of the Ontario Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, in 2003 he earned his Master’s degree from Charles Sturt University in New South Wales, Australia.

IAHS TEACHING MASTER

RETIRES

BACK ROW (L TO R): JANICE GYORFFY, DARRIN COURNOYEA, MARY TUTTLE, LORIE KOZIOL, MARGARET MACDONALD, LESLIE MARSHALL, LESLIE MURRAY , MARY AYRE FRONT ROW (L TO R): MALKA GLASNER, CAROLINE FALCONI, CAROL HOWE, PEGGY KIRBY AND DIANE BARRAFATO.

uring her tenure at Mohawk College, Professor Carol Howe has taught almost every subject in the Radiography curriculum. An active member of the Ontario Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (OAMRT) she has served as Past Chair and Secretary for the Hamilton-Niagara chapter. Carol earned her B.A. through Charles Sturt University in 2000. Her colleagues from IAHS wish her a happy retirement.

M O H AW K C O L LEGE: IN TOUCH / SPRING 2006

STONEY CREEK CAMPUS

THINK TANK SPURS COLLABORATION IN TECHNOLOGICAL EDUCATION

n November 2005, Mohawk’s Faculty of Engineering Technology and McMaster’s Faculty of Engineering co-hosted a Community Think Tank to generate ideas on potential joint programs in technology and management. More than 150 businesses, government, community and educational leaders participated in the session and offered insights and advice on matters related LEARNING LEADERS CELEBRATE PARTNERSHIP to curriculum, learning outcomes understand the future training, and the knowledge and capabilities knowledge and skills needed to prepare a needed to generate future economic professional workforce,” said McMaster’s and technological productivity and Mo Elbestawi, Dean of Engineering. prosperity. Organizers, including Cheryl Jensen, “The session helped us better Dean of Engineering Technology at

Mohawk College, are keen to explore non-traditional learning pathways that allow students to move between university and college programs. “Employers are looking for highly adaptable graduates who possess a diverse set of leadership, management and technical capabilities,” she said, emphasizing the need for educators to create hybrid programs that offer the best of postsecondary education and training. A report from the Think Tank will be available in early 2006. For information contact Gene Nakonechny, McMaster University at 905-525-9140 x 26781.

CENTRE FOR COOPERATIVE EDUCATION, GRADUATE & STUDENT EMPLOYMENT

7TH ANNUAL JOB FAIR At Mohawk College, there is no better way to kick off the New Year than by hosting a prosperous and exciting job fair. The 7th Annual Winter Job Fair was once again a success for prospective employers as well as students and recent graduates of Mohawk College. The Centre for Cooperative Education, Graduate and Student Employment, hosted the two-day venture on February 6 and 7, 2006. During the two-day event, 80 employers were able to see over 1,400 students and graduates, making both days a great success. Many contacts were made on both ends with potential full time, part time and summer employment opportunities. Each year it is a challenge for companies to hire educated, motivated and enthusiastic graduates right out of college. Ann Robertson, Recruiting Officer for the Halton Regional Police Service attends the job fair each year.

“We see great value in these types of job fairs. It helps us share what we offer in employment and see the potential of some really great future employees.” The job fair is designed to accommodate interested employers by showcasing our many talented and knowledgeable students and graduates from a wide range of career specialties including Applied Arts, Business, Health Sciences, Human Services, and Technology. Julia Shevchenko, a BScN Nursing student at the Mohawk-McMaster Institute for Applied Health Sciences (IAHS), comments, “I was so impressed how everyone was so helpful. The shuttle service from the IAHS to the job fair was a great example of how this college cares about their students.” Mohawk College also offers FREE online job posting services to all companies. First-time job posters are invited to call the Centre for Cooperative

Education, Graduate and Student Employment at 905-575-2167 for assistance in creating your account. For further information, visit our web site at: http://grad-employment.mohawkcollege. ca. Mohawk College is also very proud of our Cooperative Education programs, which enables students to engage in onthe-job practical work experience. For further information or for an “Invitation to Interview” a Cooperative Education student, please call us at 905-575-2167 or visit our web site at: http://coop. mohawkcollege.ca. Let us help you meet your recruitment objectives! The Centre for Cooperative Education, Graduate and Student Employment would like to extend a special thank you to our donors, faculty, staff, volunteers, and most of all the participating employers, students and graduates for making The 7th Annual Winter Job Fair another successful Mohawk College event!

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around CAMP U S BRANTFORD CAMPUS CAPTAIN CANUCK AND STUDENTS DRAWN TOGETHER AT MOHAWK FOR

CANADA’S FIRST COMIC DESIGN & SCRIPTING PROGRAM He’s battled time-traveling aliens in New Brunswick and a monstermaking mad scientist in Northern Ontario. Thwarted a separatist civil war plot in Western Canada, foiled a counterfeiting ring in Ottawa and gone undercover in the Maritimes. Graced the cover of TIME magazine, landed on the front page of the Los Angeles Times and been given his own commemorative stamp by Canada Post. Google his name and you’ll get 52,600 hits. And this September, Captain Canuck is off to Mohawk College to inspire a new generation of comic artists. Richard Comely, who introduced Canada’s first homegrown superhero in May 1975, has signed on as an professor with Canada’s first and only postgraduate Comic Design and Scripting program. Working out of studios at Mohawk’s Elgin Street campus in Brantford, up to 30 students with college diplomas and university degrees will learn drawing, scriptwriting and the business of comic design and scripting from some of the best and most experienced in the business. Comely plans to enlist students in the start-to-finish production of getting a new Captain Canuck comic

on store shelves. “While the art form has come a long way over the decades, comic books and comic strips remain

how to master both of these essential elements.” Program coordinator Daniel MacQueen says Mohawk is launching the oneof-a-kind program in response to employer needs. “Within the graphic design industry, there’s a real shortage of artists who are as skilled with ink and paper as they are with a computer mouse and the latest software program.” Career prospects for Comic Design and Scripting graduates won’t be limited to spinning tales about hard-bodied superheroes in spandex, although comic book and graphic novel sales are on the rise. Other career opportunities include storyboarding for television, movies and advertising, character and plot development for video games and illustration for children’s books and educational comics. “If you’re good at it and know the fundamentals, there’s no shortage of work that pays very, very well,” says Comely. “Although you’ll be having so much fun it will never feel like work.” Mohawk College Comic Design and Scripting program coordinator, Daniel MacQueen, can be contacted at (905) 575-1212 ext. 7156 or daniel.macqueen@mohawkcollege.ca or admissions at (905) 575-1212.

“There’s a real shortage of artists who are as skilled with ink and paper as they are with a computer mouse and the latest software program.”

as storytelling with pictures,” says Comely. “Mohawk’s Comic Design and Scripting program will be the only place in Canada where aspiring and experienced artists can learn

M O H AW K C O L LEGE: IN TOUCH / SPRING 2006

keeping I N T O U CH To keep IN TOUCH with all our Mohawk Grads, we need your updated info on our website alumni.mohawkcollege.ca or send us an email at alumni@mohawkcollege.ca. Share with us. Are you getting married? Starting a family? Have a new job or promotion? Looking for an old classmate? Planning a move or moved? Let us know what is going on in your life and, if possible, throw in a photo! We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Business Administration Thomas Germann, 1994 Tom attended Mohawk from 1991 to 1994 to complete his diploma in Business Administration and then continued to Brock University to 1997 then joined the Armed Forces until 2005. Currently, Tom is in real estate sales serving the Hamilton/Burlington and surrounding areas. Contact him at www.talk2tom.ca Child and Youth Worker Marco (Mark) Felvus, 1999 Mark began teaching at Mohawk parttime four years ago and is now a full-time professor in the Child and Youth Worker program as of August 2005. Computer Systems Technology Raymond Makenbach, 1994 Raymond began his career at Royal Bank as a programmer, then moved to networking, support, investment systems and now is a co-ordinator for online investing solutions. He recently re-married and has two wonderful children, Victor (13) and Keanu (4 months). Ray and his wife, Mihaela, enjoy traveling and a quiet home life. Lisa Hunt (nee McGunigle), 1992 After following her dreams in the equestrian industry, Lisa went back to school to update her computer skills for the modern world. Now a network administrator and instructor, she is using the basic concepts that she learned in the Computer Systems program so many years ago. Continuing Education Joy G. Salise, 2005 Bridging Program for International Lab Technologists Joy sends congratulations to all who passed the October 2005 CSMLS National Certiﬁcation for Medical Laboratory Technologists. Kudos!

Hamilton Institute of Technology Joe Torti, 1966 Industrial Management Technology Joe was a graduate of the Industrial program at H.I.T. before it ofﬁcially became Mohawk College. Now that 40 years has passed, Joe is interested in contacting fellow grads from his class. You can reach him at josephtorti@hotmail.com. Law and Security Administration Melvin Monteblanca, 2003 Melvin’s message to his fellow graduates is to interact closely with professors and staff. Their vast knowledge, experience and professionalism, is portrayed in the students they graduate. You will not be disappointed! Nursing Sandy Jenkins, 1981 Coming up to 25 years!! Sandy is looking for her fellow Class of 1981 grads to join her for a reunion of registered nurses. Now a Case Manager for Haldimand Norfolk CCAC, she can be contacted at sandy.jenkins@hn.ccac-ont.ca Ofﬁce Administration – Medical Kristine Blakeney (nee Rychel), 1994 After graduation, Kristine started working with Drs. D. Bowser and D. Prodger, General Surgeons, Hamilton Health Sciences, General Division and is now working with Dr. Clive Davis, Cardio-pulmonary specialist at HHS, General Hospital. Kristine married in 1994 and has one son, Alexander (8) and a daughter, Kolleen (4). Thank you Mohawk! Radiographic Technology Captain Christopher Carriere, 1993 Christopher went on to complete his BScN with Distinction at the University of

Alberta in 2001, and is nearing completion of a B.A. in Psychology through distance education at the University of Waterloo. He has served three tours of peacekeeping duty in Bosnia (1997, 2002 and 2004) and is attending medical school at the University of Ottawa. Christopher is happily married to Chantel with four children and one more due in spring 2006. TV Broadcasting Kate Mintz (nee Mitchell), 2004 Kate married a Durham police ofﬁcer in October 2005, and successfully completed the 911 course in August of 2004 which directly impacted her being hired by the Durham Regional Police. BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS: Medical Imaging Technology Emily Cryderman (nee Bull), 2001 Emily is excited to announce the birth of ﬁrst-born daughter, Briar Dianne on June 28th 2005. Although a month early, she weighed 5 lbs. 2 oz. and is now growing like a weed. Proud dad is Mohawk alumnus, Jeff Cryderman, Chemical Engineering Technology, 2002. Child and Youth Worker Alison Embro (nee Lindhorst), 2000

Our first son, Nicholas Michael Embro was born January 10, 2005 and our second son was born Feb 24, 2006 Brandon Kenneth Embro All are doing well and Nicholas is being a good big brother.

M O H AW K C O L L E G E A L U M N I ASSOCIATION : alumni.mohawkcollege.ca

looking BA C K

WE REMEMBER.. BUD SMILEY

n Saturday, January 26th, people gathered in the Mohawk College Student Centre to pay tribute to Bud Smiley, who passed away in September 2005. Bud, who taught in the Recreation and Leisure Services program for over 30 years, was well known for his commitment to the field of recreation and his community. Many former students, Mohawk colleagues, representatives from community agencies, family and friends shared stories and memories of a person who had an impact in so many ways. Through speeches, pictures, and displays, Bud’s contributions to Mohawk College, the recreation field and his community were recognized. The event raised over $6,000 for a scholarship to be established in his name so that future students might benefit from his legacy. In a surprise announcement, Bud’s relatives, the Pearson Family, donated $100,000 in his name to the Hamilton YMCA for the building of their new Mountain Branch. With their gift, Bud’s passion for the YMCA will be forever recognized. Thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of the evening, with special acknowledgment going to Alumni Relations for their tremendous support. Bud Smiley touched many lives and he will be missed. If you would like to make a gift to the Bud Smiley (R.E.C) Memorial Scholarship please call 905-575-2482

PAST AND PRESENT STAFF OF THE RECREATION AND LEISURE SERVICES PROGRAM ALONG WITH HEATHER AND LYNN SMILEY.

THANK YOU The Smiley Family would like to thank Mohawk College for honouring Bud’s contribution to Mohawk with the establishment of the Bud Smiley R.E.C. Scholarship fund. Thank-you to staff, colleagues and students, both past and present, for your generous donations and support. Remembering Education Continues. Lynne, Heather and Adam Smiley

CALLING THE CLASS OF 1981

25 YEAR REUNION

BUD SMILEY

A MEMORIAL DEDICATED TO BUD SMILEY

TRAVELLING THIS SUMMER? Affordable Accommodations for Alumni Travellers • • • • Mohawk College

$49.95 Alumni Rate Comfortable Suites Free Parking Free Continental Breakfast

Mohawk College Residence & Conference Centre 245 Fennell Ave. W, Hamilton, ON L9C 7V7 Contact us to book your rooms Toll-Free: 1-877-225-8664 Direct: (905) 385-3200 Email: clcmohawk@campuslivingcentres.com www.residenceconferencecentres.com/hamilton

OCTOBER 14, 2006 The Student Centre, Fennell Campus Tours Beginning at 4:00 p.m. Registration & Cocktails: 5:30 p.m. Dinner: 6:30 p.m.

Be a class-connector and assist us in locating your classmates from your program email: alumni@mohawkcollege.ca or call 905-575-2258. Other events are happening throughout the weekend, please call us for further details at 905-575-2258.

M O H AW K C O L LEGE: IN TOUCH / SPRING 2006

M O H AW K C O L L E G E A L U M N I ASSOCIATION : alumni.mohawkcollege.ca