Mohawk College In Touch Alumni Magazine - Spring 2009

Spring 2009

For Alumni & Friends of mohawk college

Celebrating our

Publication Mail Agreement 40065780

Alumni of Distinction

Award Recipients Visit us online at alumni.mohawkcollege.ca

Ta b l eo fcon ten ts

Features Our New President Alumni Weekend Golf Classic

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In Touch Publisher Mohawk College Alumni Association Editor Wendy Makey Design and Production Perspective Marketing Inc. Photography Terra Nova Imaging, Bernetta Scime, John Guilfoyle, Ashley Windisch, David Dorken Photography and Daniel Jelly Contributors Carly Balabanowicz, Sandi Richardson, Wendy Makey, Jay Robb, Al Craig, Bernetta Scime, Rob MacIsaac, Helen Maddick, Ronald Holgerson, Dana McNamee, John Day Darren Desmarais, Michael Regan, Lindsay Dyment, Steve Kosh, Daniel Jelly, Steven Pynn, Pat Kolodziejski, Janice Shearer, Kristy Ryerson and Karyn Callaghan.

Mohawk College’s 2008 Alumni of Distinction Award Winners were honoured at the Annual Awards Dinner.

Back Row: Peter Newcombe, ‘90, President Rob MacIsaac, Sera Nicosia, ‘81, Dave Kuruc, ‘99, Master of Ceremonies, Matt Hayes, ‘81 Front Row: Susan Shaw-Davis, ‘06, Cathy Wellwood, ‘99 and Debbie Crickmore, ‘80.

in every issue Welcoming Words Alumni Files Alumni Events Around Campus Grad Grapevine Looking Back

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Editorial Advisory Board Ronald Holgerson, VP Marketing, Communication, Alumni and Government Relations Wendy Makey, Manager, Alumni Relations Marilyn Gris, Manager, Student Recruitment and Online Communications Lidia Siino, Director, Alumni Association Council Joanne Tansley, Director, Alumni Association Council Kelly Dunham, Alumni Officer Content Co-ordinator Kelly Dunham In Touch is published semi-annually 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 400065780 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: Mohawk College, Alumni Relations Alumni House, 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.

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Welc o m i n g w o r d s

1st Alumni Experience Rob MacIsaac President, Mohawk College

While I was still a few weeks away from officially starting my job as president, I joined in the celebrations at the 13th annual Mohawk Alumni of Distinction Awards Dinner. Your Alumni Association knows how to throw a party. Thank you Sera, Debbie, Susan, Dave, Peter and Cathy. I simply couldn’t have asked for a better introduction to Mohawk College.

Awards were given to six remarkable alumni for their career achievements and contributions to the community. Early childhood education leader Debbie Crickmore was honoured for coauthoring a quality standards program used at childcare centres across Ontario. Sera Nicosia helped create Canada’s first Coordinated Spine Unit at the Hamilton General Hospital. Peter Newcombe helped forge the Canadian Victoria Cross Medal at the largest research centre in Canada dedicated to metals and materials fabrication. Dave Kuruc is transforming downtown Hamilton through a thriving arts and culture scene along James Street North. Cathy Wellwood is raising money to support the work of the Good Shepherd Centres, Hamilton’s largest social service agency. And recent graduate Susan Shaw-Davis is a constable with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in Nova Scotia and a mentor and basketball coach for at-risk youth.

These aren’t just distinguished alumni well-deserving of recognition. They’re great ambassadors for the College. Each successful alumnus clearly demonstrates what you can achieve when you start out at Mohawk. Anyone who’s thinking of enrolling at the College, hiring a Mohawk graduate, teaching in our classrooms or making a donation, only needs a 10-minute conversation and a cup of coffee with any one of these remarkable individuals to make the right choice.

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Professional and personal success is rarely, if ever, a solo performance. Behind every successful graduate, there’s a team of family and friends and a network of mentors and supporters at the College and throughout the community. And in these uncertain economic times, strong and true partnerships matter more than ever. As Winston Churchill once said “if we are together, nothing is impossible.”

That’s why strengthening partnerships will be a priority for Mohawk in the months ahead. Look for your College to reach out and connect with even more partners in business and industry, in education, government and the communities we serve. Mohawk will bring to our partnerships our proven ability to transform students into job-ready and future-focused graduates. We’ll continue to help unlock and unleash the creative potential of our students and partners, broaden the talent base in our communities, help strengthen social safety nets and drive growth and sustainable prosperity in our knowledge-based economy.

As alumni, you’re one of Mohawk’s most important partners. You inspire students with your success stories. You mentor and coach. Your workplace offers co-operative work terms and field placements to students along with great jobs and rewarding careers for graduates. And you donate to the College so more students follow in your footsteps.

If you’re not yet connected with Mohawk and you’re looking for a way to get involved and make a real difference, let’s talk. Everyone has a part to play in building an even stronger Mohawk and a more prosperous community. And there’s no limit to what Mohawk alumni can contribute and achieve.

But don’t take my word for it. Just ask Sera and Debbie, Susan and Dave, Peter and Cathy.

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Our New President, Rob MacIsaac

by Karen Majerly The Business Executive Ask Rob MacIsaac if he ever imagined he would be President of a major postsecondary institution and he responds with a quiet laugh.

“No, I never imagined it,” he says. “But my career has been a fun and interesting ride and this is no exception.” On February 2, MacIsaac became President of Mohawk College of Applied Arts & Technology. He is Mohawk’s seventh President, following MaryLynn WestMoynes, who left the position in November. MacIsaac comes to the college after serving as Executive Chair of Metrolinx, a Provincial agency tasked with looking at the big picture of transportation in the Greater Toronto Area. “I was the first person there, and I took it to 50 employees, including a full-time CEO,” he says. “It’s at a point in its history when it’s time for me to move along.” MacIsaac won’t be gone completely — he’s still spending about a half-day each week doing Chair duties. He says he’s most proud of the regional transportation plan developed under his leadership. Called “The Big Move,” the $50-billion plan recommends over 100 transportation improvements over the next 25 years.

“That was my baby,” he says. “It got unanimous approval, and I’m proud of that.”

Before going to Metrolinx, MacIsaac was Mayor of Burlington for nine years. He says he “loved every minute of it,” and that he misses working with the people at the city.

Improvements to Burlington’s waterfront and downtown, and renewed public facilities top the list of MacIsaac’s favourite accomplishments, but perhaps most interesting is his role in bringing a postsecondary institution to Burlington. “I got a memorandum of understanding signed with McMaster and built the foundation of a relationship,” he says. “But I left it unfinished. It was hard walking away from that.” MacIsaac calls universities and colleges key pillars in the life of a community, saying there is a gap when there isn’t one.

“Hamilton has two outstanding institutions with Mohawk and McMaster,” he says. “They have a direct economic impact, bringing talented faculty and students, and immeasurable brainpower and capacity.” Mohawk has seen increasing enrolment in the last year, and MacIsaac says that’s partly driven by the current economy. He says it’s an ideal time for people to gain skills, and that there is “always opportunity in crisis.” “When we fall on hard times, it’s a chance to get retrained and find an enjoyable and lucrative career.”

Skilled trades have always been a Mohawk specialty, but MacIsaac adds technology and health care to his list of areas of focus moving forward. The college’s Board of Governors had been developing a strategic plan before MacIsaac’s arrival, but left room for him to put his stamp on it. “The plan has a real focus on new ways of teaching, and I think that’s an enlightened philosophy,” he says. “We know that people learn in different ways.”

Mohawk’s facilities are also a priority. MacIsaac says the Fennell Campus is a “bit tired” and that students deserve some improvements that reflect the focus on new ways of teaching and learning. “We need spaces with different functions,” he says. “We need more informal, common space for students to gather to discuss assignments, and talk about their ideas.” Ideas in fact are the foundation of any postsecondary institution, and MacIsaac says Mohawk is poised to reach out to the business community to share them. The college is looking to offer more corporate training, and “spin out” research that has commercial applications. “Innovation is at the heart of our applied research agenda,” he says.

“It’s the key to generating economic activity.” This new President is all about partnerships, and says this to the business community: “Don’t be surprised if you bump into me in the next while. My goal is to draw as many people as possible into the Mohawk circle.”

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Alumni Council Slate of Officers Sandi Richardson Chair Early Childhood Education, 1971

Diana Zanin Vice Chair Business Administration, 1980

Lidia Siino Director Journalism and Communications Media, 2002 Joanne Tansley Director Office Administration Executive, 2004

Steve Marsh Director Law & Security, 1981

Sandra Ireland Director Nursing, 1990

Amos Key Director Communications Arts Radio & Television, 1976 John Marshall Director Mechanical Drafting Technician, 1971

Alan Griffiths President Mohawk Students’ Association

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Welcoming words

Inspiration and Hope Sandi Richardson Chair, Alumni Association I was one of thousands on a cold day in February in Ottawa waiting to catch a glimpse of President elect-Barack Obama. Not a huge fan of crowds I found a spot high on a snow pile where I was sure I would have an advantage. As I befriended many people standing close to me we all chatted about this huge event. I felt like a teenager waiting for my favorite rock band to make an appearance. I was amazed by the banners, the T-shirts and the wonderful multiculturalism that I experienced. Without actually planning to be standing on Parliament Hill I can honestly say that I reworked my business schedule to allow me to be a part of this history. I was offered a sign to hold that simply said Yes We Can. I clearly saw the President wave to the crowd and we all teased that he had waved directly to us on our snow pile.

I walked away with a spring in my step and knew that I had been touched by this man’s positive attitude and the hope of a brighter tomorrow. I thought about how this simple message of Yes We Can applies to us.

I feel that as Mohawk College Alumni we need to encourage our current and future students to reach for the stars. They too could become future Alumni of Distinction Award Recipients. As parents we have been consumed with helping our children make the right educational decisions, but in today’s economy, I find that we need to extend our hope for a better tomorrow to our coworkers, our friends and the next generation that Yes They Can. We need to share our experiences and knowledge. We all can be mentors. We have in common the wonderful experiences that we shared as students at one of Ontario’s most outstanding colleges. We have memories of friends, teachers, athletics, social events, assignments, exams, graduation and careers that make us proud to be Mohawk College Alumni. So help spread the word. Take the time to be a mentor, you will be proud that you did.

Congratulations to our Mohawk College community for another outstanding Alumni of Distinction Awards Dinner, where more than three hundred friends attended. As Spring has arrived we are guaranteed to see new and familiar faces at our annual Alumni Golf Classic on Friday, June 5th at Century Pines Golf Course. I also share the enthusiasm of celebrating Alumni Weekend with all Mohawk graduates and honouring the classes of 79, 84, 94, 04 and 09 on their milestone achievements. I encourage you to join in the Alumni Weekend festivities as it is an event you do not want to miss!

It is my pleasure to welcome our new Mohawk College President Rob MacIsaac – the Alumni Association looks forward to working with you.

Be sure to visit us online at alumni.mohawkcollege.ca

Welcoming words

Building Great Programs and Services Wendy Makey Manager, Alumni Relations Recreation Leadership, ‘93

Do We Offer What You Need?

Enter Our Contest!

The Alumni Association Council hosted their Annual Retreat in November 2008. The Council spent a great deal of time discussing what programs, services, events and activities are best suited for Mohawk Alumni. What do graduates want from their Alumni Association? What discounts are of value and benefit to our alumni, which events would entice graduates to participate and keep them engaged? Are the current programs and services desirable to the Alumni membership? Are they what Alumni members need? Are they what Alumni members want?

The Mohawk College Alumni Association Council was developed to act as the voice of the Alumni membership. The Council provides advice on member discount programs, prospective events and all elements of the Alumni Association offerings. The Council is here to

serve the needs and wants of its membership base. In order for the Alumni Council and the Alumni Relations Office to provide essential and sought after services we need to hear from you – our membership. The best way to solicit your open and honest feedback is via a survey. To do this effectively and efficiently we will be implementing an online survey to be circulated via email. To obtain an optimum response rate we need to update our email database – this is where you can help.

Help us to serve you better. Send your email by entering our email contest so we can gather much needed insight from you.

Over the next few months we will build our database with accurate email addresses, with the goal of launching an easy, concise and convenient online survey to our alumni email database by the end of June 2009.

Assist us in making the Mohawk College Alumni Association program the best Alumni program. Send us your email. Share your insight. Let us respond to what you want, and what you need.

Stay Connected – Keep in Touch.

WORD OF MOUSE CONTEST - Alumni E-mail Address Contest A chance to win a Touch Screen MP4 Player - 1GB The Word of Mouse Contest commences May 1, 2009 and concludes on June 30, 2009 The Contest is open to members of the Mohawk College Alumni Association – those who have graduated from a diploma or certificate program.

Visit the Alumni website at alumni.mohawkcollege.ca during the Contest period, and update your current contact information including a valid email address or email alumni@mohawkcolege.ca and put in the subject line “Word of Mouse Contest” and provide your full name, program and year you graduated. Automatic entries will be made for alumni who already have a valid email address on record with the Mohawk College Alumni Association and who are receiving the Informed – E-newsletter.

Send us your email TODAY! Only one entry per person is permitted. Multiple entries will be discarded. Entries are subject to verification and will be declared invalid if they are reproduced, falsified, altered or tampered with in any way. A random draw from all eligible entries will be conducted by the Association at the end of July 2009. Odds of winning are dependant on the total number of Contest participants.

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Peter Newcombe

Materials Engineering Technology, 1990

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Peter Newcombe 2008 Alumni of Distinction Award Recipient - Technology Peter Newcombe is the Supervisor of the Experimental Casting Laboratory at the CANMET Materials Technology Laboratory in Ottawa. The Government of Canada’s CANMET Laboratory is the largest research centre in Canada dedicated to metals and materials fabrication, processing and evaluation.

Peter was instrumental in the creation of the Canadian Victoria Cross, the nation’s highest military honour.

Working in secrecy, Peter and three other metallurgists were part of a core team that met the technical challenges of creating the alloy and casting the Canadian Victorian Cross. The medal was officially unveiled by the Governor-General and the Prime Minister during a ceremony at Rideau Hall in May 2008. Peter received a Departmental Merit Award from the Government of Canada for his work on the Canadian Victoria Cross.

Peter is also taking a leadership role in the relocation of the CANMET Materials Laboratory to a new $60 million facility at McMaster University’s Innovation Park in Hamilton in 2010. Peter is part of a committee that is developing a facilities access agreement for Canadian colleges, with Mohawk College serving as the pilot college for the agreement which will allow students and faculty to use CANMET’s laboratories and equipment.

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Alumni of Distinction Awards Dinner Not everything that counts can be counted….and not everything that can be counted, counts.

thank you:

Special Thanks to our Sponsors: Event Sponsor Johnson Insurance Recipient and Past Recipient Reception Michelangelo Banquet Centre Community Reception Sponsor Bank of Montreal Video Production Sponsor tweedle Productions Flower Sponsor Mary’s Flowers Entertainment Sponsor Jostens AV Equipment Sponsor Mohawk College Public Safety and Security

by Karyn Callaghan, ‘78 In this age of scores and ratings, where numbers seem to be all that count, the Mohawk College Alumni Association reminds us every year that in a college, we are learning together about people, about how to nurture the enthusiasm and passion in students to build a strong community. This counts.

A student’s life in college is relatively short, and we seldom hear about what happens post-convocation. The Alumni of Distinction Awards give us an opportunity to celebrate the outstanding contributions of graduates of Mohawk College. This year’s event proved that Mohawk graduates are active citizens and leaders – in the arts, social services, education, industry, medicine, and law enforcement.

The contributions of the recipients were celebrated at the Alumni of Distinction Awards Dinner Celebration through video testimonials from colleagues and faculty members, prepared by our Tweedle Productions Inc. and our Media Studies students. Family members, co-workers, and members of the faculty and administration team at Mohawk enjoyed the opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of these individuals.

The sold-out event provided incoming president Rob MacIsaac the opportunity to make his first official speech in his new role – a very positive introduction to Mohawk College. Recipients Cathy Wellwood, Dave Kuruc, Debbie Crickmore, Susan Shaw-Davis, Sera Nicosia, and Peter Newcombe are excellent ambassadors for our college. Congratulations to them - they know what counts.

We can play a role in raising awareness of the contributions of Mohawk graduates by nominating worthy alumni, and by attending this joyful event. Our Alumni Association has made this an evening not to be missed.

Bottom Left: Sitting: Rosemary Knetchel, ‘68, Bryan Adamczyk, Heide Bell, Rick Kawai; Standing: Lynda Morgan-Murdoch, Alan Greve, Matt Hayes, ‘83 and Sandi Richardson, ‘71 Bottom Right: Karyn Callaghan, ‘78 and Shirley Bainbridge, ‘69

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Designing a new point of view

by Carly Balabanowicz Health Canada estimates that 20 per cent of Canadians will suffer from a mental illness in their lifetime. According to the World Health Organization five out of the ten leading causes of disability are related to mental disorders. Through the provision of employment opportunities and education around mental illness, Crazy Daisy is making efforts to support those who suffer from mental illness.

The exterior of the small Cannon street shop is quite deceiving; its cold brick, worn from the abuse of Canadian winters and passers by.

The DIY sign reads “Crazy Daisy” in purple cursive and the lights are dimmed low, but hidden away into the small brick indent and two steps up to the door, the feeling of welcome is overwhelming.

Frustrated with the way that many employers stigmatize, treat and discriminate against people dealing with mental illness, Sarah Moir decided to go back to school and make a difference. Having survived mental illness, Sarah says that society needs to realize that mental illness is a physical illness; and just like any other survivor, mental illness survivors are “much more than their diagnosis.”

Sarah enrolled in Mohawk’s Small Business Entrepreneurship program and decided to pair her long-time love for flowers and floral design with her mission to provide an undiscriminating place for

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people to work. Sarah says that flowers just make her happy and that there is a bond between flowers and human emotion.

“Flowers are our tie to the earth. Human beings have always expressed emotions with the giving of flowers.”

Sarah says that she received a lot of support along the way. She says that Mike Piczak, coordinator of Mohawk’s Small Business Entrepreneurship program is “the best thing since sliced bread”, and Pia Muscott of Disability Services gave her support, guidance and advice that pushed her through the tough times. As well, her family was and is still her biggest supporter and they are the people Sarah can rely on most.

After graduating, Sarah got things rolling quickly and found her location at 1215 Cannon Street East with a small start-up initiative of $500 from the ODSP Employment support program. She recently placed 9th in the McMaster Startup Challenge – a prestigious competition to welcome innovation. Sarah is going on to compete in another entrepreneurial pitch contest in the Social Innovation Category called the Launchpad, later this spring.

Right now Sarah cannot afford to pay employees and she and her volunteers are very busy with many clients who already call Crazy Daisy their preferred vendor. She attributes this to the good feeling that companies get when buying from Crazy Daisy and hopes to soon be able to provide paid work.

Sarah says it is worth it to provide reliable references and an understanding place for people who are commonly misunderstood. But doing this openly is what sets her apart from many businesses in the Hamilton area. She says that there are a lot of businesses in the city that do hire those with mental illness and provide them with a great work environment, but they are apprehensive to advertise it. Sarah says that’s why she initially started Crazy Daisy.

“The stigma is the reason I’m doing this in the first place and mental wellness isn’t just mental illness”.

If Crazy Daisy works out, Sarah says that she will be in Hamilton for a long time to come. Sarah hopes that her initiative for openness will catch on and that’s good news for many of us, one in five to be exact.

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Ontario Colleges Athletic Association Coach of the Year – Alex Paris Mohawk College coach Alex Paris, ‘90 who was named Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) Rugby Coach of the Year for the second time, said his team got off to a shaky start during the Bronze medal match but played well. “After we trailed, the guys pulled up their socks and scored two quick tries in the final five minutes, said Paris. “We had a good year and have a lot of graduating players, so it’s good to see them finishing the year with a medal.” Alex has been coaching for the Mountaineers for the past 10 years.

He began the rugby program as a club and now it is a recognized OCAA sport. As well as coaching the Mountaineers, Alex is the Fitness and Facilities Officers for the Athletic Department at Mohawk College. He was on the coaching staff for the provincial rugby program for the Under 15 Men’s team and has represented Ontario and toured England.

Alex is a level three certified coach. He has been a member and is very involved with the Hamilton Hornets Rugby Club. He has served as the Junior Development Co-ordinator and now is the coach of the Under 12 Co-ed Team.

Past Mountaineers Mentored In Coaching Shannon Morton and Courtney Warren are two of the 18 successful candidates of the 2008-2009 Female Apprentice Coach Program.

The program receives funding from Sport Canada, a branch of the Department of Canadian Heritage, which is administered by the Canadian Colleges Athletic Association (CCAA). Applications are considered from graduate student-athletes with-in the last five years, who demonstrate the desired skills and aspirations for coaching. The Female Apprenticeship Coaching Program provides candidates with the opportunity to share the coaching experience in CCAA National championship sports. The CCAA offers women the opportunity to pursue their coaching careers and for the past four years, the CCAA has offered a Female Apprentice Coach Program to graduate student athletes in the sports of volleyball, soccer, basketball and badminton.

A former Mohawk women’s basketball star has been awarded the position of Apprentice Coach for the Mohawk Mountaineers.

Shannon Morton, ’05, a graduate of the Recreation and Leisure Services program, who played guard at Mohawk, assisted Women’s Head Coach Kelly Dunham, ‘91 during the 2008-2009 season.

Shannon’s coaching experience ranges from the club system to the CANUSA games as well as working with at-risk youth. Shannon’s goal one day is to be a head coach at the College or University level.

Courtney Warren, ‘05, began her volleyball career at Mohawk College in Hamilton, Ontario in 2002. During her 4-year playing career at Mohawk College she grew to love and respect the sport. In terms of coaching experience she coached a junior high school boy’s team and recently was the assistant coach for the Impact Volleyball Club’s U17 girl’s team in Alberta and plans to serve as this team’s head coach next year. Courtney believes that in order to be a great coach you must learn from a great coach, and this program has provided Courtney the opportunity to do so as the Apprentice Coach of the Mount Royal Cougar men’s volleyball team under the direction of Shawn Sky.

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Alumni enjoying entertainment at the Alumni Mixer during Alumni Weekend

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The Alumni House participates in the Halloween Challenge

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Alumni gathered at the Association’s Annual General Meeting

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Students enjoying the Alumni Walk of Fame during Fall Orientation

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John Marshall, ‘78, Joanne Tansley, ‘05, and Matt Tansley, ‘03, at the Hamilton Santa Claus Parade

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2008 Premier’s Award Recipients and Nominees from Ontario Colleges

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Mindy Tweedle, ‘06, and George Morasse, ‘70, at the Alumni of Distinction Past Recipients Reception

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John Marshall, ‘78, and Diana Zanin, ‘80, at the Alumni of Distinction Community Reception

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The Class of 1983 at the 25 Year Reunion

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Mohawk Mountaineers and Alumni Women’s Basketball Game participants during Alumni Weekend

John Marshall, ‘78, Wendy Makey, ‘93, Diana Zanin, ‘80, Steve Cino and Ronald Holgerson Cal Haddad, Ed Stencel, ‘82, and Steve Kolar, ‘79, at the Alumni of Distinction Awards Dinner Sandi Richardson, ‘71, Debbie Crickmore, ‘80, and Christine Blythe, ‘00, at the Premier’s Award Dinner Sanela Cosic, ‘05, Matt Hayes, ‘81, and Dana McNamee, ‘06, at the Alumni Walk of Fame during Fall Orientation SAC, MSA and the Alumni Council group with MO the Hawk at the Hamilton Santa Claus Parade Students enjoying Corn on the Cob during the Weeks of Welcome Orientation free BBQ

Mark your Calendars!

If you would like more information about the events listed below, or would like to plan an event, please contact the Alumni House at (905) 575-2258, or at alumni@mohawkcollege.ca.

June 5, 2009 - 5th annual Mohawk College alumni Golf Classic Century Pines Golf Club Fall 2009 - Mohawk night at the Ticat Game Ivor Wynne Stadium october 17, 2009 - alumni Weekend Fennell Campus January 21, 2010 - alumni of distinction awards dinner Michelangelos Banquet Centre

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MOHAWK NIGHT at the TICAT GAME Dinner, refreshments and good company made for a perfect evening as more than 40 alumni and friends gathered in the end zone in the Mohawk College Alumni Corporate Tent at the Ticat Game, October 28th, 2008. Guests enjoyed meeting old friends and networking with fellow alumni and community partners.

The brisk evening did not discourage the Tigertown spirit as we cheered on our Hamilton Tigercats. We were visited by famous Ticat Angelo Mosca who signed a few autographs and there were prizes for everyone. The event was a great opportunity to catch up with old friends and reminisce about days gone by at Mohawk.

Join us for MOHAWK NIGHT WITH THE CATS this fall.

Please check our website for more details. alumni.mohawkcollege.ca

Steve Marsh, ‘82 and Diana Zanin, ‘80 at the Ticat Game in the Mohawk College Alumni Association Corporate Tent.

Fall Convocation Speaker KIM SAJECKI is an honors graduate of the Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant Program at Mohawk. Kim has had much success in her field as well as in the customer service industry, with 10 years experience in administrative as well as clinical settings.

Since her graduation from college in 2004 Kim’s work experience has included working for Motion Specialties Hamilton as a Sales Assistant, at Lansdowne Children’s Centre as an OTA and PTA, as well as in various administrative/customer service roles with TD Canada Trust. Recently Kim began a small business from her home so she could dedicate more time to her family.

Below are a few words of wisdom Kim shared at the Fall 2008 Convocation: “Allow yourself to acknowledge your accomplishments and understand the difference between gloating and confidence.

Listening is a far better tool than speaking. Remember that the easiest way to diffuse a difficult situation is to offer a good ear, an open mind and a helping hand.

Believe that you can create change if it is meaningful enough to you. No matter what the scale of your daunting task, embrace it, think it through and go for it. You will regret the latter much more, as the famous quote says “you will learn more from the journey than the destination.”

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Award Winning Designer Celebrates His 30 Year Reunion

by Kristy Ryerson, ‘07 Over 30 years in the Architectural Design business, Chuck Mills President of Chuck Mills Residential Design & Development Inc., has won numerous achievement awards locally, provincially and nationally and has spent 15 years successfully running his own innovative residential design firm in Ottawa, Ontario. He has become well known in Ottawa for his ability to take client’s design dreams, making them a reality.

Chuck Mills graduated from Mohawk College’s Architectural Technology program in 1979 and is proudly celebrating his 30 year reunion! For Mr. Mills, he enjoyed the “overall experience” of college. One thing he notes about his education is that, “I am a firm believer that a co-op education is crucial.” For him the co-op program and experience Mohawk provided, “helped me decide what specific field I wanted to specialize in (residential) within the broader field of Architecture.” When asked what advice he would give to students, Chuck responded, “be fully engaged in the educational process and utilize your professors …they have a great wealth of experience.” But most importantly he suggests that “if you don’t wake up everyday and love what you do, you’re in the wrong profession.

I can honestly say after 30 years in this business, I still love what I do!”

Mr. Mills’ began his professional career working with an Architect in Niagara Falls, then onto homebuilders & developers in Calgary, Alberta working on a vast array of large and smaller scale projects. In 1984, he decided to move back to Ontario and ended up in our nation’s capital, Ottawa. He spent many years working for several “track builders,” mastering his trade before he made the biggest decision of his career, to start his own firm. The reason for this leap, “I was tired of working for companies which in my opinion were not working in the best interest of the client. Long story short, I knew I could do it better on my own…my way!” said Mills.

In 1994, after 15 years in the Architectural Design business, Chuck Mills Residential Design & Development Inc. was created, designing custom homes and renovations. Mr. Mills’ main business focus is to, “listen to our clients, understand their lives and dreams, and to interpret them.” Chuck prides himself on his attention to detail and personalized client-based service. This philosophy has proved to be successful, as he has received countless awards but his two favorites are: his very first, Ontario Home Builders Award (OHBA) of Distinction for “Most Outstanding Renovation” and his first Canadian Home Builders Award (CHBA) SAM award, both of which are huge achievements for Mr. Mills.

Along with these prestigious awards, Chuck’s work has been featured in an array of the country’s leading building trade publications, as well as the Ottawa Citizen newspaper.

Chuck attributes his leap to freelance work as one of his greatest career accomplishments. “Striking out on my own was a tough decision…but I have been successful and now have a 98 percent referral rate.” He goes on to state that the hardest part about “making that leap is you don’t know where your money is coming from.” However, he finishes with, “I could never have been successful in my profession, especially since going out on my own, without the constant support from my family.”

Chuck Mills’ unique attention to detail, perseverance, creativity and personalized customer care has made, Chuck Mills Residential Design & Development Inc., a successful and innovative business that will continue to make positive strides in the Architectural Design field.

Shown top-to-bottom: Chuck Mills, bathroom design, kitchen desgin and backyard design.

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Building Bridges by the Bay The Mohawk College Alumni Association was the proud host of the 2008 Ontario Alumni Association Conference, which was held on Friday, August 15th and Saturday, August 16th, 2008.

The annual conference was attended by dedicated volunteers of Alumni Associations and Alumni Relations Staff from Colleges and Universities all over Ontario. The conference, who’s theme was “Building Bridges by the Bay”, created great opportunities for the over 35 delegates who attended to meet new people, engage in productive discussions on various topics and most importantly learn from the experts and experience of their very own colleagues.

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The conference was also a great opportunity to show off Mohawk’s facilities, as well as Hamilton itself. Delegates started off the conference with an ice breaker activity hosted by ‘Rock the Stars’. Delegates dressed up as Rock Stars and put on a once in a life time rock performance. The conference concluded with a sail around the Hamilton Harbour aboard the Hamilton Harbour Queen Cruise Line, where participants had the opportunity to network with their colleagues.

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1. Conference delegates enjoying lunch 2. A quiet dinner aboard the Hamilton Habour Queen 3. Rock the Stars performance on opening night 4. The bus ride down to the Habour 5. Another fantastic photo of Rock the Stars

16 in touch | Spring 2009

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Mohawk College Alumni Association presents the

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Mohawk College Alumni G O L F C L A S S I C

Friday, June 5, 2009 CENTURY PINES GOLF CLUB FOUR PERSON SCRAMBLE

6:45am Registration and Breakfast 8:00am Shot Gun Start

$560 per team or $140 per person Includes: Hot Buffet Breakfast Round of Golf Shared Power Cart Driving Range BBQ Lunch Corporate Gift Chances at Door Prizes Top Team Awards Specialty Hole Contests

REGISTER TODAY! Online alumni.mohawkcollege.ca or call 905.575.2258

IT’S OUR 5TH ANNUAL MOHAWK COLLEGE ALUMNI GOLF CLASSIC! The funds raised from this event will support valuable programs and services that benefit Mohawk Alumni and students.

Make this more than just a day on the golf course...network with fellow alumni, business partners, community leaders and golf enthusiasts of all levels.

HOW TO BECOME A SPONSOR: We are currently seeking sponsors and players. This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase your business to your fellow Alumni. Your contribution will go a long way in making this event a success and bring publicity and recognition to your organization. Sponsorship opportunities are available only on a first come, first served basis. To secure your sponsorship, complete the online sponsorship form or contact Wendy Makey (wendy.makey@mohawkcollege.ca or 905.575.2080) .

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES: Lunch Sponsor - $3,500 Breakfast Sponsor - $2,500 Cart Sponsor -$2,000 ½ Cart Sponsor -$1,000 Signage Sponsor - $2,000 Refreshment/Snack Cart Sponsor - $1,500

Putting Contest - $1,000 Driving Range Sponsor - $1,000 Contest Holes • Hole in One Sponsor - $500 • Longest Drive - $250 • Closest to the Pin - $250 • Green or Hole Sponsorship - $100 per green or hole

GOODIE BAG - IN-KIND PRIZE SPONSORS Donate items with your company logo or your products or services for the player gift bags – great marketing opportunity.

ALL SPONSORSHIP LEVELS RECEIVE THE FOLLOWING: Company logo visible in a Power Point presentation on the event day.

Company name, logo on official tournament sign and in Golf Event Program.

Company name, logo & web link highlighted on Mohawk College Alumni Association Web Site.

The opportunity to include information and/or product sampling inside the guest goodie bags.

For complete details of Sponsorship benefits, please contact Wendy Makey – 905.575.2258.

Thank you for your continued support of The Mohawk College Alumni Association.

Looking forward to an exceptional day of golf at Century Pines Golf Club on Friday, June 5, 2009!

Do you know

a Mohawk grad who has that

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extra something

Someone who you think

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Well, what are you waiting for?

The Mohawk Alumni Association is now accepting nominations for the

2009 Alumni of Distinction Awards.

Nominations are due by May 29, 2009.

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Visit our website to download a nomination package. http://alumni.mohawkcollege.ca Celebrating our graduates and building lifelong relationships

alumni even t s

Santa Claus stopped at Mohawk On Saturday, December 6, 2008 , the MSA, the Mohawk College Alumni Association and Mohawk College Association of Continuing Education Students arranged for Santa Claus to stop by the Arnie from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m.

Children got their pictures taken with Santa, and while they waited for a CD with their photo on it, there were lots of activities to keep them busy. Children could participate in ornament making, writing a letter to Santa station, Christmas movie specials projected on the big screen and enjoy free hot chocolate.

This was a first time event for Mohawk, and it certainly will not be the last.

The turn out was fantastic. It was wonderful to see Alumni and

Centenary and Mohawk College form an educational partnership …

Centenary College has a rich history of providing quality education for over 130 years and is U.S. accredited.

• CENTENARY COLLEGE offers BS and MBA fast-track degree completion opportunities for Mohawk College graduates.

• Business advanced diploma graduates (threeyear) earn your BS after 36 credits.

• Business post-graduate certificate graduates earn your MBA in as little as 18 additional credits – about 11 months online.

• Studies available online or in-residence.

For Additional Information Contact: MR. RONALD BAYS (toll free) 1-877-236-4723 Email: canadianprograms@centenarycollege.edu www.centenarycollege.edu

their children, students and their children, and the community taking part in this event.

It was a great atmosphere. The line up to see Santa was not long and there was no need to rush through the visit on Santa’s knee.

This was a free event, including the pictures with Santa, which were provided by Botts-Watson Photography.

Mark your calendar as Santa will return to Mohawk on Saturday, December 5, 2009 for the 2nd Annual Pictures with Santa.

IS A B.S. OR M.B.A. IN YOUR FUTURE? I am very happy to be enrolled and half way through my M.B.A. program at Centenary College. I have found this program to be very flexible and rewarding as I continue my career. Working Full-Time can be challenging while taking courses at night, but Centenary has allowed me to manage this difficult task. The Professors and coordinators have been excellent, and I am left feeling empowered, self disciplined and enriched having started this program. I encourage other students who are interested in pursuing their M.B.A. to go through Centenary College.

CARA STANTON:

Graduate of McMaster University in Labour Studies (2005) and Mohawk College, Human Resources Manager Graduate Certificate program (2006) is currently enrolled with the Centenary College M.B.A. program.

in touch | Spring 2009 21

Being part of the Mohawk College Alumni family has its benefits As a graduate your relationship with Mohawk continues. The Alumni Association provides many opportunities to stay connected and in touch. Have a look at the benefits....

MOHAWK PRIDE Alumni Pin Alumni ID Card Mohawk Ring Diploma & Certificate Framing Alumni Recognition Alumni of Distinction Awards

CONNECTIONS IN TOUCH Magazine INFORMED – e-newsletter Alumni Weekend Reunions Meet the Grad Nights Meet & Greets Corporate Coffee Breaks WEB SERVICES Up-date your information Online access to IN TOUCH Magazine Online access to e-newsletters Photo Gallery of Events

MEMBERSHIP PERKS Johnson Insurance Inc • Home, Auto and Travel BMO • Mohawk College Mosaik Mastercard Toyota (Upper James – Hamilton) • exclusive pricing Residence & Conference Centres • Summer Travel Accommodations Alumni Insurance Services • Critical Illness Plan Program National Rent-a-car • Discount Rentals FREE ALUMNI CARD Access to Fennell & Brantford Gymnasium Admittance to Varsity Home Games Ability to participate in Campus Recreation programs Access to Counselling Services Access to Graduate Employment Services Open Access use Library Access

For more information, contact the Alumni Relations Office or drop by the Alumni House 905-.575.2258 . alumni@mohawkcollege.ca . alumni.mohawkcollege.ca Alumni House , 135 Fennell Ave West, Hamilton, ON L8N 3T2

A round campus

Blog and Twitter with Mohawk Mohawk has launched two new ways for alumni to stay connected with your college. Check out the college’s new blog at mohawkmatters.typepad. com and sign up for instant and quick updates on twitter.com/mohawkcollege. Mohawk will be showcasing and celebrating the achievements and contributions of alumni, students, faculty and staff to the world. If you have a story to share about outstanding alumni, send us an email at jay.robb@mohawkcollege.ca.

Mohawk’s community classrooms

Volunteers Needed!

We are looking for outgoing, motivated, individuals to help provide a ‘Welcome’ environment at Mohawk College.

Information Booths College Events Tours For more information, Please contact Debra Pearson at

905-575-2492

The Hamilton Community Foundation has turned the community into a classroom for hundreds of Mohawk students, faculty and staff.

The Foundation has provided a $35,000 grant to support a dozen Mohawk service learning projects in six neighbourhood hubs throughout Hamilton.

The student-run and faculty-supervised projects give students a unique opportunity to make a difference and make their mark.

Students representing every School at the college are planning and running a series of family days, after-school programs, camps and community events. The class projects put students to work as Mohawk ambassadors and role models for children and youth. Highly engaged Mohawk students apply what they’re learning in the classroom to help meet the needs of community groups and neighbourhood residents.

The service learning projects build on Mohawk’s successful partnership with the Eva Rothwell Centre at Robert Land. The college initiated the partnership in the Fall of 2006 and students, faculty and staff continue to put their skills to work at the North Hamilton community centre.

In the Spring of 2007, Mohawk hosted a conversation café to look at strategies for increasing high school graduation rates and post-secondary participation rates in an isolated North Hamilton neighbourhood. That event led to the North Hamilton Community Centre launching a partnership with Pathways to Education, an award-winning program that combines tutoring, mentoring, financial assistance and advocacy.

In the Summer of 2008, Mohawk and the Hamilton Spectator organized and ran a free media relations summer camp for nonprofits to help tell and sell their stories.

Connecting with the community helps bring to life the mission and vision of Mohawk College and prepares students for the future.

in touch | Spring 2009 23

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International Voyage

by Mary Hrycay, ‘86 I had the amazing opportunity to visit China in December as part of my job in the International Education Department. This was my first opportunity to travel overseas and to experience a country so very different from anything I had experienced in my North American/Caribbean travels.

This visit took us to some of the larger cities in China. We started in Beijing, a bustling metropolis of 18 million people, then moved to Xi’an, which is one of the oldest cities located in the heart of China and then finished off in a flurry of visits to the cities of Nantong, Wuxi and Changzhou.

We were surprised at the sheer number of people, the volume of traffic and the amount of development and construction taking place in these cities. It was not uncommon to see modern buildings being erected, in and amongst the historical buildings and neighborhoods that had existed for centuries. All of the hustle and bustle and development, certainly made me appreciate our less crowded and open green spaces that are an integral part of our North American cities.

Our travels took us to Mohawk College’s six partner institutions. Two of the partners are 3+0 partnerships, meaning that students in China are learning the Mohawk curriculum for their three years of study and once successfully completed, obtain 2 diplomas, one from Mohawk and the other from their home institution. The remaining four partners are 2+1 partnerships, meaning that students in China are taking two years of schooling in China and in their 3rd year, can choose to come to Mohawk to finish their studies, or stay at their home institution.

The main focus of our visit was to attend a graduation ceremony at one of the first graduating 3+0 classes, meet the students in our programs, tour the campus facilities, and meet the administration responsible for overseeing the joint projects. We were also honored to take part in the 50th Anniversary celebration at one of our 2+1 partner schools.

While each city and institution had its own unique culture, history and ambience, all of the people we met at our partner institutions were welcoming, friendly and hospitable. The Chinese pride themselves in being excellent hosts and they most certainly lived up to this standard on our trip.

Part of the emphasis and draw of our joint programs in China is the opportunity for students to learn some of the curriculum in English. Having some knowledge of the English language is beneficial to students in China, as it improves their chances of finding work in a more global community. More and more North American companies are establishing offices in China and students who have a grasp of the English language will be much further ahead in their job searches.

Many of the students we met spoke varying degrees of English, and made an attempt to communicate with us in English.

This trip provided us with the opportunity to develop a further appreciation of the cultural differences that exist between our countries and as well, a better understanding of the challenges that students from China experience when they come to study in Canada. As more and more students graduate from these joint programs, the number of Mohawk College alumni living and working in other countries will continue to grow, and the Mohawk community itself will become more global.

24 in touch | Spring 2009

Top to bottom: Mary Hrycay, ‘86 and Marilyn Micucci at Wuxi Graduation Ceremony at the Joint Educational Program at China Youth University; Graduation Students from Siyuan University in X’ian

A round campus

Invest in students!

For 30 years, the Ontario College Marketing Competition (OCMC) has been providing a student focused learning experience that produces career ready leaders that have helped organizations excel. In November of 2009, Mohawk College is excited to host this prestigious event.

Left to right: Aaron Hinks and Jaz Mogford

Taking place over two full days (November 19th and 20th), OCMC ‘09 will bring together hundreds of graduate-level students and dynamic faculty to showcase their business talents and earn top awards for teamwork and strategic thinking.

While the event is held over two days, OCMC participants and their college representatives begin preparing at least six months in advance. All promotion material, including the official event web site will be launched several months prior to OCMC ‘09 and it becomes a major academic pursuit at each college leading up to the actual competition.

The OCMC is a fantastic opportunity for business and industry leaders to support a prestigious learning experience while meeting exceptional students and future associates. The competition will attract over 500 students, faculty, and judges from across the province.

OCMC ’09 will open with a welcome event at Mohawk College Fennell Campus on November 19th. All second day events take place at the Sheraton Hotel in Hamilton on November 20th.

The opening event is an exciting team event, Quiz Bowl, which tests students’ knowledge of current marketing events and terminology. The second day consists of eight case events where pairs of students, within specific time constraints, are challenged to read, analyze and present a solution to a panel of industry judges. The case events focus on the following areas: • Marketing • Marketing Research • Retailing • Entrepreneurship • Direct Marketing • Sales Management • International Marketing • Integrated Marketing Communications The competition also includes two individual events: • Sales Presentation • Job Interview

Below: Mohawk’s Marketing Competition Team

The students are provided the specific scenario in advance and appear before a panel of judges in an industry environment. The sales presentation is structured as a buyer-seller role-play situation and job interview is conducted for an entry level position in marketing.

The competition concludes with a gala banquet and awards ceremony where individual event medals are presented and the coveted OCMC cup is awarded to the college with the highest overall points.

The OCMC recognizes that we can only accomplish our common goals with the active participation of businesses. We encourage you to consider partnering with OCMC. Not only will you be associated with the students’ success, but as importantly, you will be providing students with an extremely valuable learning experience. Our select partners will enjoy exposure to the students as well as other business professionals if they choose to partner as judges at the event and will receive recognition via our many marketing opportunities.

For information on partnerships and judging opportunities please contact: Pat Kolodziejski Coordinator Marketing Program OCMC Event Coordinator 905-575-1212 ext 3300 pat.kolodziejski@mohawkcollege.ca

Janice Shearer Professor, Marketing OCMC Event Coordinator 905-575-1212 ext 3302 janice.shearer@mohawkcollege.ca

“This is a terrific competition, and also an opportunity for us to give back to the Marketing higher education community.”

-McGraw-Hill Ryerson, existing partner in OCMC 09.

Left to right: Alyssa Rennison and Katie Mueller

in touch | Spring 2009 25

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Do you have an active resume?

Employers review the large volume of resumes they receive on a daily basis.

Job seekers respond to advertised positions in extraordinary amounts and many will contact companies in the hope that they are tapping into that infamous hidden job market. So how can your resume stand out and prompt that call for an interview?

Make your resume active, not passive!

The words on the paper should reach out to the employers and engage their interest. An active resume doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t present a history of experience and education but puts forward a picture of a potential employee who is qualified and has a track record of achievements and accomplishments to suit that job. These selling points are arranged and directed specifically to the question that is on the mind of the recruiter: â&#x20AC;&#x153;What can you do for my organization?â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;˘ Do you have the skills, training, and education required for this job? â&#x20AC;˘ Do you have the experience in this field that could be used in this position? â&#x20AC;˘ Are you confident and will you be able to contribute to the organization? â&#x20AC;˘ Your Education defines your formal training and your specialized courses that relate to the employer needs.

Attention Employers!

Connect to Great Students and Graduates s

s s s s s s

â&#x20AC;˘ Will you learn, grow, and be flexible? â&#x20AC;˘ Read the job ad, research the company and understand what they are looking for. â&#x20AC;˘ A Skills section informs the employer you have what it takes to work in your chosen field. Use keywords from the employer ad and the industry to convey you are well qualified. â&#x20AC;˘ Your Experience should be adjusted to relate to the requirements of the job. Use action verbs and accomplishment based statements. You can give tangible proof of teamwork, leadership skills, flexibility, willingness to take responsibility and your excellent communication skills. â&#x20AC;˘ Communicate with a concise, targeted resume and cover letter addressing the exact needs of the employer. This speaks volumes about your communication skills. â&#x20AC;˘ Making your resume an active document takes time, thought, and preparation.

Drop by or contact the Job Centre at 905-575-2167 or from Brantford, 519-759-7200 x2167 Visit the virtual office at mohawkcollege.ca/jobcentre.

Job Centre

2ECRUIT GRADUATES FROM OVER ACADEMIC AND APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMS 0OST YOUR FULL TIME PART TIME AND SUMMER JOBS WITH US !TTEND *OB &AIRS (OST ,UNCH AND ,EARN )NFORMATION 3ESSIONS (IRE #O OP STUDENTS FROM OVER COOPERATIVE EDUCATION PROGRAMS 0ARTNER WITH -OHAWK FOR A COMPETITIVE EDGE AND ECONOMIC PROSPERITY 6ISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR EMPLOYER INFORMATION AND SERVICES

Job Centre AND Cooperative Education

Fennell Campus, Room i110 135 Fennell Avenue West, P.O. Box 2034, Hamilton, ON L8N 3T2 4EL FROM "RANTFORD EXT OR TOLL FREE #//0 \ &AX %MAIL POST MOHAWKCOLLEGE CA \ www.mohawkcollege.ca/JobCentre

26 in touch | Spring 2009

A round campus

2008 President’s Awards of Excellence Since its introduction in 1976, Mohawk’s President’s Awards of Excellence have been given to more than 200 faculty, support and administrative staff. Colleagues are invited to nominate their peers and nominations are reviewed by a college committee. The Annual awards were presented during a ceremony in the McIntyre Theatre on November 18, 2008.

Mohawk celebrates staff who raise the bar on serving students, colleagues, industry and community partners. Mohawk College proudly presented three President’s Awards of Excellence and the first ever President’s Award for Applied Innovation to three remarkable individuals and an outstanding team.

“Our 2008 award recipients work in different areas of the college

Coordinator Adele Martin for providing outstanding leadership to Mohawk’s Occupational Therapy Assistant and Physiotherapy Assistant Program following the sudden passing of a well-respected Mohawk leader. Adele has also led the enhancement of the program’s course curriculum to meet the needs of community partners.

yet share the same values and personal mission of serving Mohawk’s students, our community and industry partners and our colleagues,” said Past President MaryLynn West-Moynes. “All four recipients also demonstrate a drive for creating innovative solutions that make Mohawk an even greater college.”

The first Mohawk President’s Award for Applied Innovation was presented to Mohawk’s 15-member and cross-departmental Course Outline Application Team for creating an innovative technical solution that benefits students, faculty, support and administrative staff and provides Ontario’s 23 other colleges with a blueprint for moving course outline information and resources online.

Administrative Assistant Donna Ruhloff for supporting students, faculty, staff and industry partners in three cooperative education programs, four certificate programs, five program advisory committees, six apprenticeship programs and seven technician programs within Mohawk’s Building and Construction Sciences department.

Associate Dean Michael Dwyer for helping more students realize their dreams of a college education by building innovative bridging programs and courses with a special focus on serving and supporting laid-off workers, single parents, newcomers to Hamilton, at-risk youth and first generation students.

Join us at the ALUMNI MIXER Classes Honoured at the Alumni Mixer: • 30 Year Anniversary for the Class of 1979 • 25 Year Club for the Class of 1984 • 15 Year Anniversary for the Class of 1994 • 5 Year Celebration for the Class of 2004 • Welcome back the Class of 2009

Saturday, October 17, 2009 3:00pm to 5:00pm The Arnie 3:00pm - Registration & Reception 4:00pm - Reunion Celebration Presentations

Celebrate with us, spread the word and tell your classmates! in touch | Spring 2009 27

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In Touch

Advertise with us and reach over 48,000 Advertise with us and reach over Mohawk 42, 000Alumni.

Mohawk Alumni.

with us and reach over 42, 000 Mohawk Alumni.

Contact the Mohawk Alumni Association for more info | (905) 575-2258 | alumni.mohawkcollege.ca | alumni@mohawkcollege.ca

28 in touch | Spring 2009

around campus

in touch | Spring 2009 29

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Mountaineer Medal Count Fourth year, rightside hitter, Steve Pawelczyk of the Mohawk Mountaineers was named the Men’s OCAA Player of the Year. He was also named an All-Canadian. In his previous three seasons at the middle position for the Mountaineers, Pawelczyk, the Advertising and Police Foundations student and a graduate of Barton High School, had been overshadowed by the talent on those Mohawk teams, including former All-Canadians Peter Sniuolis and Jasmin Cull. It marks the second year in a row that Mohawk has received such recognition. Jasmin Cull was so honoured last year.

Varsity Men’s Volleyball Team 2009 OCAA Bronze Medal Winners

Varsity Mixed Curling Team 2009 OCAA Bronze Medal Winners 30 in touch | Spring 2009

Varsity Women’s Fastball Team 2009 OCAA Bronze Medal Winners

Varsity Men’s Rugby Team 2009 OCAA Bronze Medal Winners

A round campus

Mountaineers Honoured as they join the OCAA All-Millennium Teams The All-Millennium teams were first announced in 2000, then recognizing teams for Volleyball and Basketball. This year the OCAA is honouring a total of sixty-eight former athletes as members of the Women’s Fastball, Men’s and Women’s Soccer and Men’s and Women’s Badminton All-Millennium teams. These athletes will also be formally recognized at the OCAA Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in Windsor on April 29th, 2009.

Three Mohawk Mountaineer Hall of Famers have been named to the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) Badminton All-Millennium teams. Grace Siu and Wendy Mabson are on the women’s Wendy Mabson, ‘88 and Michelle Harkness, ‘82 team while Mabson’s former doubles partner, Brad Paul, made the men’s team. 11 women and 10 men given the prestigious honour, all starred in the OCAA prior to the change of the millennium.

Seven men and three women from Mohawk College have been named to the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association All-Millennium Teams for Soccer. Each select team is comprised of 18 playing greats.

On the men’s side, Mohawk’s Ardo Perri was the OCAA’s top goalkeeper in 1970 and 1971 and his team won the OCAA gold medal each year.

Dennis Piccolotto was the OCAA’s top goalie in 1989 and a league all-star in ‘89 and 90.

During his career Mohawk won gold, silver and bronze Medals.

John Sozio was selected to three all-star teams from 1998 to 2000 and was the OCAA Male Athlete of the Year for 2000-01.

Deniis Piccolotto, ‘91 and Laurie Cahill, ‘75

Jerry Cipriani was a two time all-star in 1993-94 and helped capture two silver medals and one bronze.

Rob Cleugh was a three time all-star from 1985-87 and a silver medalist in 1986.

Jerry Ciprinai, ‘97

Ray Trevisan was the 1968 league scoring champion and part of Mohawk’s OCAA Championship squads of 1969 and 1970.

Michelle Harkness, ‘82 and Ray Trevisan,’73

And Anthony Notarianni was an all-star in 1991 and ‘92 and part of the Mountaineers’ side, which won OCAA silver medals in both 1990 and 1992.

Mohawk legends making the OCAA All-Millennium Women’s Soccer Team include Carrie Wooloff, a member of the 1998 Mountaineers’ gold medal winning squad. Wooloff was also an all-star in 2000.

Christine Stoneman earned all-star recognition in 1997 and 1999 and holds the OCAA record for goals in a game with seven.

Josie Tucceri was a two time OCAA Central West Region scoring champion in 1997 and 1998. She led Mohawk to the ‘98 gold medal.

Mountain resident and former Mohawk College pitching ace Alison Cassiano (Diplock) has been named to the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association All-Millennium team for women’s fastball. She is one of 12 players selected, all of whom played prior to the change of the millennium.

Allison Cassiano (Diplock), ‘95

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Calling the Class of 1984

25 Year Reunion Saturday, October 17, 2009 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

3:00 p.m. Registration & Reception 4:00 p.m. 25 Year Club Presentation Be a class connector and assist us in locating classmates from your program email: alumni@mohawkcollege.ca or call 905-575-2258.

Other events are happening throughout the weekend, please visit us online at alumni.mohawkcollege.ca

32 in touch | Spring 2009

Mountaineer Hall of Fame Friday, June 5, 2009 6:30pm - Cocktails 7:00pm - Ceremony For more details, please contact Bernetta Scime @ 905-575-2004 bernetta.scime@mohawkcollege.ca

around campus

IAHS Spring Fling Semi Formal The first Annual IAHS Spring Fling Semi Formal was a wonderful success held on Friday, March 20th at Liuna Station. The event, a brainchild of students, was planned and implemented by students for their peers.

Over 100 guests enjoyed a night of good food, great music, dancing, laughter and fun. The night was a hit and thank you to all that joined us! This event was brought to you by Student Life, Mohawk Students’ Association and Mohawk College Alumni Association.

1

3 1. Guests enjoying the late night candy bar buffet 2. The IAHS Student Life Staff Sarah Hermans, Lindsay Dyment (‘05), Melissa Agnew, Jessica Vanhooren (‘06), and Nicole Miller 3. The grand prize winner of the Ninendo DS 4. Group photo of Alumni and the Class of 2009

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k eep i n gi nto u c h

Grad Grapevine Maureen Goutier ‘78 Nursing, St. Joseph’s Campus

Edward Voogt ‘85 Data Processing

I completed my BA in Sociology and Gerontology, a second BA and a MA in Medical Sociology. My research has been published in Nursing and Health Care Journals. I am currently completing my PhD in Health Care Policy for the aged. I also work as a consultant in Health Care for the aged.

New house, new lady, new job location.

Jim Gauthier ‘80 Medical Laboratory Technology Jgauthier2@sympatico.ca Calling the Class of 1980 (Chedoke Campus) – 2010 will be our 30th Anniversary and would love to get everyone together during Alumni Weekend. Please email me and we can get the ball rolling.

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Ralph Barnett ‘83 Nursing

Glenn Froese ‘85 Mechanical Drafting Technician We have started to branch out from Southern British Columbia to Southern Alberta with our unique brand of Industrial Buildings.

Concrete tilt-up buildings have been built in BC for 20 plus years but we have now introduced them to Southern Alberta and they are taking the area by storm. Due to weather related issues, they were never considered and now we have introduced options to make them much more feasible. My work has changed to one of more information and technology rather than just design. Education of the concept is important to win persons over to something entirely different than what they are used to.

Jennifer Birch-Schofield (nee Thomas) ‘86 Mechanical Engineering Technician-Drafting Design Learning never stops eh? After 20 years in tool and die design for the automotive industry, I took an 8 month sabbatical and then for the last 21 months I have been at ESC, learning about Cleanrooms.

I have worked 20 years in Texas and California. I am semi-retired and back in Canada.

Ray Adamyk ‘83 Recreation Leadership I run the largest historic restoration company in California, Spectra Company.

David Gooseens ‘85 Advertising I currently own a successful medical supply firm with agents and representatives across Canada. I have been working in the medical field in sales and marketing since 1990.

34 in touch | Spring 2009

Chuck Sharshin ‘87 Computer Electronics Engineering Technology chucks@community.nipissingu.ca Mohawk College gave me the skills to get my career off to a good start.

Working in IT at Nipissing University for the past 11 years has given me a better understanding of how important a good educational foundation really is. I just hope I can pass this on to my daughter Kathleen. If any of my old classmates see this, I would love to hear from you!

Rob Hancock ’89 & ‘94 Tool and Die Craftsman/ Medical Laboratory Technology I am currently working as a Medical Laboratory Technologist at McMaster Hospital. I got married in November 2008. Hello to all my classmates from both programs. Email me!

keepingin touc h Steve Kolovos ‘90 Electronics Engineering Technician

Krista Knight ‘97 Law Clerk Program

I am married with 3 boys. I own a local security and telecom company.

Just recently moved and also had another child. Spencer is 4 and Carson is now 9 months.

Paul Bardati ‘91 Architectural Technology I have been married for 13 years to my beautiful wife and we share the joy of having two wonderful sons (9 and 5 years of age). For the past 17 years, I have worked within the building industry in a multitude of facets. I am currently an AEC Software Consultant for SolidCAD, an authorized Autodesk reseller. Although I no longer design buildings, I have the dubious honour of consulting with some of the top firms in Ontario on Building Information Modeling (Revit) on some of the world’s most prestigious projects.

Lisa Chetwynd (nee Laver) ‘93 Nursing lisabc@shaw.ca I moved to B.C in ’99 and am happily settled in Prince George working in labour and delivery at the hospital here. I married Robert Chetwynd, a computer network technician. We have two beautiful children, Thomas 6 years and Claire 3 years. I would love to hear from my friends in Group 19, Nursing Class of ’93.

Caroline McAlpine ‘96 Educational Assistant

Ibrahim Khalil ‘04 Business Marketing I’m currently in the hiring process of the Hamilton Police Service and the Ontario Provincial Police. I am hoping to become a police constable in 2009.

Sarah Dankmeyer ‘04 Chemical Engineering Technology I am graduating with a B.Sc in Chemistry and a B.Ed, and am hoping to teach in the UK this coming September.

Holly Angus ‘05 Public Relations Graduate Certificate Program Now that the 2008 Arctic Winter Games have wrapped up (a truly incredible experience), my son Damion and I have left Yellowknife and relocated to Fort McMurray, Alberta this past fall. I started my new position as Marketing Manager with Keyano College on September 2, 2008. Thanks to my Mohawk College education and the mentorship of Ronald Holgerson, I am pursuing a career I love and delighted to be back in the halls of higher education.

I have been working as an EA full-time for 12 years for the HWCDSB and I have been an instructor in the EA program for Continuing Education for the past four years. I have also been a professor in the full-time EA program here at Mohawk College for the last two years.

Andrea Jones ‘06 Advertising

Darcy Allingham ‘96 Architectural Technology

I have just moved to North Bay to start my own business. I am currently working at the North Bay Conservation Authority on a one year internship in the Communications department .

After graduation, I got a job with a large mechanical/electrical contractor whom I was doing mechanical estimating for. Then went onto a major construction project in Nova Scotia, doing project planning/scheduling.

That kicked off my career in project controls and I worked and traveled across Canada for about nine years. In August 2005, I married Stephanie whom I had met while working in New Brunswick. In September 2005, I formed by own company named DDA Construction Services Ltd. And I now contract my services to major engineering/construction companies Canada wide. In May 2007, we moved back to New Brunswick and we now have our roots in Quispamsis, just outside of Saint John.

Leah Marie McFadyen ‘06 Recreation and Leisure Services I have a wonderful job right after college and have moved to a new city and I am enjoying life and whatever it throws at me!

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k eep i n gi nto u c h

Scott Baldwin, ‘07 Truck and Coach Technician Cambridge, ON Just bought a new house, had my second son and got married on June 7, 2008.

Basil O’Connor ‘08 Network Systems Just finished my second day at my fantastic new job! With my technical training at Mohawk I was able to land an incredible job with Evertz, which is the world leader in HDTV broadcasting solutions.

With my technical experience at Mohawk, I am well-versed in the technical experience and knowhow of Networking. I look forward to becoming a Product Specialist with Evertz and being a part of the implementation process at any other worldwide customers. A big thanks to all my professors, counsellors and everyone else at Mohawk who

Protection of Personal Information From time to time, you may be contacted either by mail, e-mail or phone by one of our services and benefits partners regarding one of our programs. Mohawk College is proud of its relationship with a number of trusted partners and service providers who have an established record of treating personal information with care and provide valuable services and benefits to our alumni. We appreciate you taking the time to learn about the programs and the latest offers available. We want to let you know that at no time will your name or contact information be shared with anyone not specifically authorized by Alumni Relations. Mohawk College respects the privacy of its alumni and the sensitivity of personal information. All of our partners sign strict confidentiality agreements with us prior to receiving any contact information.

Should you wish to not be contacted about services and benefit programs, JUST CALL 905-575-2258 or e-mail alumni@mohawkcollege.ca and tell us you wish to OPT OUT of affinity marketing plans.

Thank you for your interest and your participation in the services and benefits provided by the Alumni Association and the Alumni Relations Department.

Say “CHEEZ” Send us your Photos!

We welcome photo’s of alumni, alumni gatherings and alumni events.

Please follow these guidelines: • e-mail high-resoulution photos (300 dpi or more) to alumni@mohawkcollege.ca.

Please write IN TOUCH Photo in the subject line.

36 in touch | Spring 2009

• mail prints to Alumni House, P.O. Box 2034, Hamilton, ON, L8N 3T2.

Include your mailing address if you would like the prints returned.

• all photos must include: names, programs and graduation year of those photographed, event details (name, date, location, etc.)

please note: submissions may be edited for space and/or clarity

Loo k ing back

Mohawk Fondly Remembers Norm Marshall

By Ken A. Wallis Associate Dean, Music and Media I met Norm Marshall in 1973 on my first day of work at CHCH TV. He was loading up his beloved pipe outside the newsroom as I walked by. He greeted me with a ‘hello kiddo.’ Years later I’d bump into him and he’d still call me kiddo. It was truly an honour being called kiddo

by Norm.

Norm Marshall came to Hamilton in 1940 to work at CHML and quickly became a sports broadcaster, calling the play-by-play for the Hamilton Ti Cats , the Hamilton Red Wings, and later university football. In 1952 Norm made history by calling the first televised Grey Cup Game. In 1954 he joined CHCH TV and quickly became the face of Hamilton. He anchored the six o’clock news for over 20 years.

He’s been called a legend; an icon; a pioneer broadcaster. But Norm was more than that. He was also an educator who taught in Mohawk’s Media Programs Sue Prestedge, Norm’s former student and now Mohawk Media professor remembers: “Norm didn’t like mediocrity. He expected you to do your best every time. While teaching us, he shared stories from his own experience. He was a great storyteller! Norm made you want to be a part of the media business. He had a passion and he wanted to light the fire under those of us who were just starting in the business.

Everyone has one instructor that sticks out when you look back at your education. For me that person was Norm.”

Norm taught at Mohawk for 13 years from 1975-1987 mentoring future broadcasters such as Connie Smith, Matt Hayes and Bill Kelly.

Not only did Norm help many students get into broadcasting, but many of the people Norm worked with later came to the college to follow in his footsteps.

Ron Binns, Coordinator of Television: “I worked with Norm for several years on OUAA Sports. Two things stand out in my mind....his orange pipe and the fact he was the last person to leave the stadium after a game. He was incredibly generous with his time talking with players and fans alike. Norm was the ultimate gentleman and showed the rest of us what true sportsmanship was all about.”

Denise Dickie, Media Professor: “In addition to always having a warm, positive greeting literally every time we crossed paths, Norm was always willing to answer questions, and without hesitation and with good spirits he would share his experiences. The generosity of the gentleman - and he was a gentleman - was boundless.”

“There are enough Norm stories to more than fill a book” says Warren Beck, former coordinator of Journalism who taught with Norm at the College.

One evening Norm was doing the play-by-play and Warren was doing technical on a hockey broadcast from Maple Leaf Gardens. “A small-statured man, neatly dressed in a shirt and tie, overcoat, and tilted fedora entered the press box. In order to pass our location, he pulled our broadcast cord out of the jack box, walked around and reinserted it into the box. We were knocked off air. During the next commercial break, Norm leaned over and with a straight face said, “Do you know who that was? That was FOSTER HEWITT, THE SECOND BEST hockey play-by-play broadcaster in Canada.”

in touch | Spring 2009 37

Looki n gb a ck

Brian Bolt, Radio Coordinator: “One of my fond memories

Happy Trails to Mentor Marshall

was when Norm had the MC job at the Christmas College function called Mohawk Presents. Norm had a great memory and a very sharp mind. In fact only last year he bumped into a grad from 1984 and called him by his first name. A great champion of radio students, he always wanted them to be creative yet aggressive and he used to say “Go get em Tiger” and “what you put into it is what you’ll get out of it.”

Norm truly was a legend and with legend comes lore. One night when returning home, he was caught speeding. The policeman harangued him with statements like “Just because you’re a star, that doesn’t give you the right to speed.” Norm, who never considered himself better than anyone else, was taken aback. The next night, Norm was refereeing a hockey game involving the police team.

Standing at the blue line was the same cop. Norm dropped the puck and immediately blew the whistle. “Two minute penalty’ Norm declared pointing at the cop. When the cop protested, Norm responded with “Ten minute misconduct.” After another protest Norm roared “You’re outta the game.”

Norm touched the lives of many in the Mohawk Community.

There’s no better way to sum up Norm’s importance than the words of former Media Studies Chair, Steve Dunn.

Happy Trails dear friend Norm, You took us by surprise..

So like you, to do this Since we know you hate good-byes.

You had many careers in your lifetime.

So glad I was involved with two, Broadcasting and education, So great working with you!

You were my idol in High School Nurturing Broadcasting as my goal.

To be a play by play announcer, however, Was not to be my role.

Along came television, Covering sports could be the same.

Got a job at Channel eleven To direct Red Wing hockey games.

What a thrill it was to work with The man I idolized.

I learned about the business From a man talented and wise.

I left broadcasting, went freelancing.

Had a company of my own.

Just when my business, not doing so well, There was Norm Marshall on the phone!

‘We need a TV instructor At Mohawk College right away’.

Thank you Norm for remembering me You were the answer for what I prayed.

The rest is ancient history.

Back together as a team.

Both teaching future broadcasters, Helping them accomplish their goals and dreams.

You told me you would never retire.

‘Career changes’ are what you did.

Using more of your God given talents, Showing people how to live.

Norm Marshall passed away 13 days shy of his 90th birthday on November 5th, 2008

38 in touch | Spring 2009

This recent Career Change was a big one, Stepping from this life to the next.

I’m sure the Lord greeted you with open arms.

In life’s ‘play-by-play’, you passed the test.

MOHAWK COLLEGE ALUMNI CRITICAL ILLNESS INSURANCE

The power to prepare for the future is in your hands When critical illness strikes you can be left feeling powerless and vulnerable. The statistics speak for themselves…

• 70,000 Canadians will suffer a heart attack this year.* • 145,000 Canadians are diagnosed with cancer annually.** • 40,000 Canadians suffer a stroke each year.* Be prepared with Mohawk College Alumni Critical Illness Insurance, brought to you by Alumni Insurance Services. With advances in medical technology and healthier lifestyles, Canadians are now surviving critical illnesses that at one time had poor chances of survival. 80% of hospitalized heart patients survive and an equal percentage of stroke patients survive the initial event. The bad news is, survival is more expensive than you may think.

Critical illness shouldn’t leave you powerless!

Sources: *Heart and Stroke Foundation, 2004. **National Cancer Institute of Canada: Canadian Cancer Statistics, 2004.

Critical Illness Insurance helps with expenses so you can focus on recovery.

Recovery times can be long and expenses, medical and otherwise, can easily add up to thousands of dollars. Mohawk College Alumni Critical Illness Insurance pays you a lump sum cash benefit that you can use anyway you see fit, such as: • Cover medical expenses not covered by your provincial health plan • Make required modifications to your home • Supplement lost income

• Pay for required home care and transportation • Keep up with bills, pension payments, etc.

• Pay for required dependent care

That’s why putting Critical Illness Insurance in place now is such a wise decision. Applying for Mohawk College Alumni Association Critical Illness Insurance is simple, just visit www.mohawkcollege.ca/alumni/partnerships and click on Alumni Insurance Services to obtain an application form, or call us at 1-877-534-3655 to speak to one of our customer care representatives. No medical examination is required and only a few medical questions asked.

1-877-534-3655

www.mohawkcollege.ca/alumni