Community Report 2020 by Northern Lakes College

COMMUNITY REPORT 2020

A Year in Review

50th YEAR Daniel Vandermeulen Board Chair

Glenn Mitchell President & CEO

The Community Report is an opportunity to reflect on the past year, celebrate our successes and our response to challenges, and provide a snapshot of activities undertaken by Northern Lakes College in 2020, which turned out to be a rather unforgettable year. Northern Lakes College celebrated its 50th year in 2020. While we thought the year would be unforgettable due to this milestone, it turned out to be memorable for another reason entirely. While we have been unable to roll out a number of the 50th anniversary initiatives we had planned due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we have included some content in the pages of this annual report to mark the occasion by paying tribute to our history. Our innovative Supported Distance Learning (SDL) model, which includes unique delivery models like NLC LIVE Online™ and NLC Anytime, Anywhere, ensure educational access to students at home, work, or on campus. Though our model of delivery may be online, we have deep roots in the region we serve. With limited broadband services in many northern communities, students can study from any NLC campus and receive support through our unique ‘wraparound system’, which provides a highly supportive learning environment. COVID-19 provided challenges for which no aspect of society was prepared, including the post-secondary education sector. However, the Northern Lakes College delivery model positioned us well to adapt swiftly. With the majority of programs already delivered online before the pandemic, NLC was able to focus on ensuring continued access for those students without reliable Internet broadband or home technology. In our 50th year, the singular vision we have always held, to provide the most accessible educational opportunities to Albertans, proved its worth. Enjoy our 2020 Community Report: A Year in Review.

Photos in this publication that do not display physical distancing were taken prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

www.northernlakescollege.ca

We are celebrating

years

50 years of passion for what we do, where we are, and who we are. 50 years of inspiring students and investing in our communities. 50 years of relentless pursuit in our quest for excellence. 50 years of game-changing and trailblazing. Northern Lakes College has always had a singular vision to provide the most accessible educational opportunities to Albertans. What’s your vision?

Let Northern Lakes College inspire your new beginnings and create your endless possibilities.

Northern Lakes College respectfully acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 8 territory, traditional lands of First Nations and Métis people.

Community Report 2020

A history of excellence

years

Alberta Vocational Centre

Grouard

1970-71

Alberta Vocational Centre - Grouard (AVC Grouard) trains Education Technicians who provide instruction in adult basic education in the Community Vocational Centres (CVC) service area.

www.northernlakescollege.ca

ALBERTA VOCATIONAL COLLEGE

AVC

Lesser Slave Lake

VOCATIONAL CENTRES

1974

Twenty-six CVCs dot the northern part of Alberta.

1988

While AVC Grouard and the CVCs are “sister” institutions, they operate separately until amalgamation, whereupon they are known as Alberta Vocational Centre - Lesser Slave Lake.

AVC

Years of Building Futures!

LSL

1995-96 Alberta Vocational *College-Lesser Slave Lake celebrates its 25th anniversary.

*In 1990, college status is achieved, and the name changes to Alberta Vocational College – Lesser Slave Lake.

From the beginning, the Northern Lakes College vision has been to increase accessibility to educational opportunities. While the model has changed with time and the advent of technology, and then evolved at lightning speed with the accelerating sophistication of that technology, the result is still the same. It’s rather simple. Students can access quality educational opportunities without having to leave their community. Today, students can study from the comforts of home, from work, from the road, or from one of the many Northern Lakes College campuses and program sites located throughout Alberta.

1999

Northern Lakes College launches under its new name.

2010

Northern Lakes College celebrates its 40th anniversary.

2016

Northern Lakes College releases a new logo.

2020

Northern Lakes College celebrates its 50th anniversary.

Community Report 2020

A college of communities

Original Peerless Lake log campus

In the late 1960s, the community of Peerless Lake was approached by the Community Vocational Centre (which, along with Alberta Vocational Centre – Grouard, would go on to become today’s Northern Lakes College) to see if the community might be interested in having an adult learning centre in the community. The community jumped at the chance, establishing an Education Management Committee (EMC) and building their own campus. Community members fell the trees in the winter of 1969 - 1970 to build the first Peerless Lake Campus, which was constructed in the palisade style with the logs running vertically. The campus opened in the fall of 1971. From the early 1970s to 1975, five CVC campuses in Cadotte Lake, Calling Lake, Loon Lake, Peerless Lake, and Trout Lake were built by community members.

www.northernlakescollege.ca

Beginning

Here from the

Elder Mabel Grey was involved with Northern Lakes College for 33 years from 1972 to 2005. In 1972, a Community Vocational Centre (CVC) representative visited the community of Atikameg to see if there might be interest in establishing a local CVC. These are her memories from that time: The people of the community wanted it right away. We even had an old-age pensioner who wanted to return to school! The community took me as the head of the project. The reason it worked is because we were able to hire one of our own as the instructor. We selected a community member to attend the Education Technician program at Alberta Vocational Centre – Grouard, and then she came back and taught Adult Basic Education.

me to all of my meetings and he became well-known around the College. I was also on the Board of Governors of Northern Lakes College for four years from 1998 to 2002. Many times, over the years, I thought I might retire, but the students didn’t want me to. I finally retired in 2005 when thenPresident Daniel Vandermeulen retired. Northern Lakes College is important for people to have their second chance at an education.

Over the years, if the students were struggling or facing challenges, the instructor would call me and I would go to the campus and talk to the students. I spoke to them in our own language, and that made a difference. I was the Chairperson of the Atikameg EMC/CEC from 1972 to 2005, and attended the Council of Community Education Committees throughout that time. In the later years, my husband, Russell Grey, accompanied

Elder Mabel Grey at her home in Whitefish River - February 4, 2020

Community Report 2020

A legacy of GROWTH AND TRANSFORMATION Former Northern Lakes College President & CEO, Ann Everatt, retired August 31, 2020 after serving as the President since June 2013. The great majority of Ms. Everatt’s career has been devoted to working in rural and northern postsecondary environments. Prior to her tenure with Northern Lakes College, she served as Academic Vice-President at Keyano College in Fort McMurray. At Northern College, in Timmins, Ontario, she was Executive Director of Community Services and at Fanshawe College she was the Dean of Community Services. At Arctic College, in Nunavut, she held both faculty and Chair of Business positions. In announcing her retirement in January 2020, President Everatt stated that it was a difficult decision to leave NLC. “This is a college that I hold dear. I feel like I am leaving one family behind as I go to spend time with my other family. I am so proud of the College and I just know that NLC will continue to provide opportunities for students and enhance access to even more programs in the future. Truly, I can say that NLC is a jewel of a college, and I will miss it.” Ms. Everatt’s priority in her retirement is to spend time with her grandson.

www.northernlakescollege.ca

Under President Everatt’s stewardship, the College has grown in both enrolment and program offerings, and we have never had a deficit. Her vision has led the transformation of the institution into a recognized distance learning college. Her legacy ensures students in all of our communities, no matter how small or how remote, have access to our programs from their community campus and often from their own home. –D aniel Vandermeulen, Board Chair

Former President & CEO, Ann Everatt, stands in the new High Prairie Campus. She tirelessly advocated for the facility during her tenure and the campus is considered her legacy project.

Community Report 2020

Northern Lakes College

Welcomes

New President

With over twenty years of leadership experience in the education sector and a demonstrated commitment through his 13-year tenure with Northern Lakes College, the Board of Governors of Northern Lakes College appointed Glenn Mitchell as the new President & CEO, effective September 1, 2020. Highly regarded by his provincial peers through his participation and chairing of both the Regional Stewardship Provincial Committee and the Alberta Deans of Business, President Mitchell has also served on the Professional Development Advisory Committee, the Alberta Deans of Foundational Learning, and other provincial committees and groups. President Mitchell has been commended provincially for his work in bringing the Community Adult Learning Programs to Northern Lakes College. “I am humbled and honored to have the opportunity to serve in an institution that I have come to deeply love, in such an exciting time of change and transformation. I believe Northern Lakes College is positively positioned to continue to offer life-changing educational experiences for students in our region, our province, and beyond. I am looking forward to meeting with our students and community stakeholders in the near future,” says President Mitchell. He has held a number of positions including Distance Learning Coordinator, Director, Dean, and Vice-President, Academic. President Mitchell’s educational background includes two undergraduate degrees and a diploma in Adult Teacher Education from Memorial University of Newfoundland, a Master’s Degree in Leadership from the University of Calgary, and he is currently a doctoral candidate at the University of Calgary.

www.northernlakescollege.ca

President Mitchell has a strong commitment to community-based education and Supported Distance Learning. I am confident that he has the experience and imagination to lead Northern Lakes College into the future. –D aniel Vandermeulen, Board Chair

Glenn Mitchell, President & CEO

Community Report 2020

Increasing Post-Secondary Access and Participation Drayton Valley Partnership Enhancing access to post-secondary education in rural Alberta is a common goal shared by both the Town of Drayton Valley and Northern Lakes College. It is with great excitement that the community and NLC announced a new education partnership in November 2020. Northern Lakes College is a natural fit for Drayton Valley as it has a proven education model that caters to the unique education needs and challenges of rural Alberta communities. As of January 2021, NLC will be offering services to residents of Drayton Valley and students will have the option to study from home or work, or access their courses at the Drayton Valley Clean Energy Technology Centre. “This is an exciting moment for the advancement of postsecondary education in Drayton Valley,” commented Mayor Michael Doerksen. “Increasing accessibility to education, especially in rural communities is more important than ever. During these tough economic times, students experiencing barriers to education, including location, has grown in the last few years. “Northern Lakes College is thrilled with the opportunity to provide post-secondary programming to the community of Drayton Valley. We are committed to providing accessible and community-based learning opportunities and to finding collaborative ways to support the provincial goal of increased engagement in the post-secondary sector. We thank our Campus Alberta partner, NorQuest College, for its support of the partnership and for welcoming NLC into its service region,” commented President & CEO, Glenn Mitchell. Commented NorQuest President & CEO, Carolyn Campbell, “It has been our pleasure to serve the Drayton Valley region, and we are confident that Northern Lakes College is the right partner to continue providing access to high quality education for the community and region.”

www.northernlakescollege.ca

Northern Lakes College coming into Drayton Valley provides a ray of hope to many students and families who are looking to further their education or reskill themselves amid a changing economy. This provides some muchneeded hope in Drayton Valley and our surrounding communities. –D rayton Valley Mayor, Michael Doerksen

New Campus in Fox Creek Chateh

High Level

Paddle Prairie

Peerless / Trout Lake

Loon River

Smoky River (McLennan) Grande Prairie

Peace River Peavine

Cadotte Lake Atikameg

Stony Point (Wabasca)

College Campuses Community Access Point (CAP) Sites

Gift Lake Grouard High Prairie

Valleyview

For the first time in its history, the community of Fox Creek will have a post-secondary institution right at its doorstep with the opening of its own Northern Lakes College Campus. Residents will no longer be required to travel to further their education.

Fort Vermilion La Crete

Slave Lake

Campus Alberta Partnerships

Driftpile East Prairie Athabasca

Fox Creek

Edmonton

Lloydminster

Drayton Valley

Calgary

Brooks Medicine Hat

The Mayor of Fox Creek, Jim Hailes, commented, “The Town of Fox Creek is very pleased to welcome Northern Lakes College to our community. The availability of the College in town will allow our community members to thrive and our businesses to grow. We wish Northern Lakes great success in pursuing their mandate to serve Albertans.” Fox Creek will be joining over 50 other communities served by Northern Lakes College when the new campus opens in January 2021. The campus will be located at the former Tourist Information Centre. “Northern Lakes College is excited to partner with the Town of Fox Creek to offer access to post-secondary education in the community. Our model is to provide opportunities to students to engage in training and further education at home, so that they do not have to leave their communities,” commented President & CEO, Glenn Mitchell.

This partnership will allow our citizens to access post-secondary opportunities without having to leave town. – Fox Creek Mayor, Jim Hailes

Community Report 2020

NLC Offers

Free Online Learning At a time when we were all practicing physical distancing and many were staying home, Continuing Education & Corporate Training at Northern Lakes College joined many of its fellow postsecondary institutions and offered free or discounted training to help serve communities. While the department’s in-person classes were suspended, the Continuing Education & Corporate Training department offered online alternatives where possible. In recognition that some had not experienced NLC’s unique Supported Distance Learning (SDL) model, the department, in collaboration with its partners and instructors, offered selected, limited-time, free online training opportunities.

www.northernlakescollege.ca

Responding to COVID-19 When the global COVID-19 pandemic affected all aspects of society and its institutions, the College’s unique Supported Distance Learning (SDL) model provided a high level of resilience against the impact of the pandemic. While Northern Lakes College had to adjust many aspects of its operations, with the majority of employees working from home and students studying from home, course access for students and course delivery for instructors required fewer adjustments. The Northern Lakes College SDL model allows students and their instructors to convene in an online environment where they can interact in real time. The model recreates the traditional classroom in an online environment, allowing instructors to deliver live lessons and for students to ask their questions in real time. The model also provides greater access to learning supports and a host of mental health and wellness services for students. The largest challenge faced by the College and many students has been the lack of high-speed internet in a number of northern Alberta communities. In those communities, students normally attend the local NLC campus to access their online courses. Northern Lakes College responded to this challenge by providing affected students with devices preloaded with required learning materials. Chair of Academic Upgrading, Eddie Sargent, was part of the team preparing and sending laptops to students.

DRIVE-UP Wi-Fi In an effort to address the gap in access to high-speed internet that many residents in northern Alberta’s rural communities face, Northern Lakes College introduced Drive-Up Wi-Fi for NLC students. This allows students to upload assignments and download course work and resources, from the safety of their vehicle in the parking lot of the community campus. Signage indicates where the student should park in order to access the strongest signal. “As we had to limit access to our campuses and students have to access their courses from home, they have demonstrated an amazing resilience. For those who have no or limited access to connectivity, we have supplied devices with preloaded course content. Drive-Up Wi-Fi is just one more measure we have put in place to support our students to succeed,” explains President & CEO, Ann Everatt.

Northern Lakes College is well-poised and ready to do its part to support our region to relaunch the Alberta economy. Our unique Supported Distance Learning model ensures our programs and student support services are accessible to students at home and work. – President & CEO, Ann Everatt

Community Report 2020

Ashley’sStory: Ashley Sturgeon has accessed her Academic Upgrading courses while travelling. She has accessed them from home. However, her favourite place from which to access her courses is from the Northern Lakes College campus in Peace River. The flexibility of the NLC LIVE Online™ delivery model, which allows her to access her courses from wherever she may be, is part of NLC’s unique Supported Distance Learning (SDL) environment. Ashley lives in Grimshaw and travels to the Peace River Campus, about a twenty-minute commute. At the time of writing this story, she is in her second year of Academic Upgrading. Upon completion, she intends to enrol in the College’s Educational Assistant Certificate program. “I worked as an Educational Assistant for a year or so and I loved it. In order to continue to work in that capacity, I need a credential.” Ashley intends to stay in the Grimshaw and Peace River area and work for a local school upon graduation. Of returning to school, Ashley says, “It has been a great experience. I am glad

www.northernlakescollege.ca

Thriving in a Supported Distance Learning Environment

that I had the opportunity to come back when I did. I appreciate it more. When I was a teenager, I disliked school, even though I did not struggle academically. The difference is that I now enjoy the learning process. For example, I love chemistry – I enjoy the mixture of math and science and how understanding chemistry helps to make sense of the world around you.” “I had my daughter when I was 17 and left school to raise her,” she explains. Ashley, who now has three daughters,

Marty is always checking in with students. He is so friendly and understanding of the struggles an adult learner might face. – Ashley Sturgeon of Campus Instructor, Marty Fullerton

delayed her return to studies for 14 years. “I am very grateful for the opportunity to finish my high school diploma.” In a short time, Ashley adjusted to the online delivery model, and she thoroughly appreciates the flexibility it affords. Ashley explains that NLC’s SDL model is worlds apart from the correspondence learning model. “Correspondence did not work for me. There was nobody checking up on me, no support, nobody to motivate me. I knew when I came back to school that [the correspondence] model of learning would not work for me. SDL holds me accountable to progress.” One of the most important aspects of the SDL model is access to a campus resource person whose primary function is to ensure student success. For Ashley, that person is Campus Instructor, Marty Fullerton. “Marty is always checking in with students. He is so friendly and understanding of the struggles an adult learner might face. If you need anything, he will facilitate that as best he can. If he can’t answer a question, he will find someone who can.”

Community Report 2020

With innovative delivery technologies, Northern Lakes College has grown to meet the needs of students across Alberta, Canada, and beyond. Saudi Arabia

CANADA

Tunisia

2,098

Senegal

Vietnam

1 10

United States 2

Bermuda 2 Mali Chile

1 Saint Lucia

1 4

Oman

Nigeria 82

2,206

Unknown

Continuing Education1 STUDENTS WORLDWIDE

Unique Continuing Education students registered as of April 1, 2020 for 2019-2020 programs and courses

www.northernlakescollege.ca

3,990

1 YUKON

Continuing Education1 & CREDIT2 STUDENTS CANADA

NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

NUNAVUT

NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR

40 91 BRITISH COLUMBIA

3,564

ALBERTA

MANITOBA

61 SASKATCHEWAN

3 145 ONTARIO

QUEBEC

24 NEW BRUNSWICK

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

18 NOVA SCOTIA

Unique Continuing Education students registered as of April 1, 2020 for 2019-2020 programs and courses 2 Unique Credit students registered as of April 1, 2020 for 2019-2020 programs and courses

Community Report 2020

Campus Alberta Partnerships Connect Learning Across the Province Increasing Access to Academic Upgrading and Practical Nurse “Fostering life-long learning is an essential part of what we do at Lakeland College and it’s always important to look for innovative ways to give our communities as many educational opportunities as we can. Through this collaboration with Northern Lakes College, we are able to work together to offer our community access to quality academic upgrading and practical nurse programs, which are both essential needs in our communities. We are so pleased to partner with Northern Lakes in the spirit of collaboration and knowledge-sharing. Together, we strive to ensure all Albertans have access to a wide variety of educational opportunities.” – Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, President & CEO, Lakeland College

Dr. Wainwright-Stewart and President Mitchell

U of C Provides Access to Bachelor of Education “The collaboration that exists between the Werklund School of Education and Northern Lakes College is a true example of the innovation and creativity that comes of a shared purpose, and it is the students who benefit. Through our combined efforts, students attending Northern Lakes College have access to the supports and expertise that their home institution can provide while obtaining a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Calgary, a degree that signals both academic excellence and a commitment to student experience. On behalf of the Werklund School of Education, it is such an honour to work and learn alongside our Northern Lakes College colleagues as we find flexible and engaging pathways for preservice teachers.” – Dr. Amy Burns, Associate Dean of Undergraduate Programs at the Werklund School

Dr. Amy Burns and Dean Michelle Mitchell

Partnership Expands Programming Access “Northern Lakes College and Medicine Hat College are setting an excellent example for Alberta’s post-secondary system. The goals of this new agreement are strongly aligned with the Government of Alberta’s own objectives. I fully support all efforts to foster collaboration and reduce duplication, to improve student services and cut red tape, and to ensure programming meets the needs of the communities and regional economies served by both colleges.” – Honourable Minister Demetrios Nicolaides, Alberta Advanced Education Presidents Shufflebotham and Everatt and Minister Nicolaides

www.northernlakescollege.ca

MEETING MUNICIPAL TRAINING NEEDS ACROSS CANADA In June 2020, PEMAC Asset Management Association of Canada and Northern Lakes College congratulated the first group of municipal practitioners to graduate from the special offering of the Asset Management Professional (AMP) program for cross-functional municipal teams. Practitioners from about 40 Canadian municipalities of all sizes, took the learning journey together through the AMP program beginning in December 2018. About 100 of these practitioners completed the program in June and were awarded the Certified Asset Management Professional (CAMP) designation. In 2018, PEMAC was selected by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) to provide asset management training to municipal practitioners. The initiative is offered through the Municipal Asset Management Program, which is delivered by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and funded by the Government of Canada. The Municipal Asset Management Program is an eight-year, $110-million program designed to help municipalities make informed decisions about infrastructure investment. Available to municipalities across Canada, the program teaches participants strategic asset management thinking. The management of municipal assets is critical to maintain or extend the lifetime of assets. Municipalities must manage

existing and aging infrastructure alongside new infrastructure projects. This training assists municipal teams to optimize asset management practices and infrastructure investment decisions. Comprised of six courses, the AMP program is delivered through Northern Lakes College. It introduces participants to the latest in strategic asset management thinking while building organizational capacity for excellence in asset management. Designed for mid-career professionals and senior management from a variety of roles including IT, business management and finance, participants develop the capacity to build their knowledge and skills while familiarizing themselves with strategic decision-making tools at each stage of the asset lifecycle. A second phase of the AMP program for cross-functional municipal teams began in August 2020. This initiative is offered through the Municipal Asset Management Program, which is delivered by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and funded by the Government of Canada.

With a goal of meaningfully improving the Asset Management practices of their municipality, participants joined in cross-functional teams providing greater impact across departments. PEMAC is thrilled to see that the knowledge gained throughout the program is being applied, as these professionals work to implement process improvements and more strategic decision-making tools. – C indy Snedden, Executive Director, PEMAC Asset Management Association of Canada

Community Report 2020

Northern Lakes College Alumni Team Up in K-4 Classroom This is how it started. “I just wanted to drop you a note and tell you how great life is. I am the K-4 pre-Kindergarten teacher at Driftpile School. I have two educational assistants (EAs) in my room, and they are NLC alumni as well. We are excited to be a team and have our own class. We are grateful for the wisdom you have imparted and we are drawing on that knowledge as we set up our classroom. Thank you and hopefully you can come visit us.”

This note from Early Learning and Child Care (ELCC) alumni, Gloria Fierro, to her instructors, starts it all. On a lovely, sunny winter day, instructors Alisha David and Renée Tissink take a road trip to Driftpile Cree Nation to visit with their former students at Mihtatakaw Sipiy School (Driftpile School). Born and raised in Driftpile Cree Nation, Georgina Bellerose is an EA with the fifth and sixth grades. She started with NLC as an Academic Upgrading student in 1996. After achieving her high school diploma, she began work at the elementary school as an EA, returning to NLC to get her ELCC diploma. Georgina graduated in 2019. “The fact that I did not have to leave my community to access the program made all the difference,” she comments regarding NLCs model of making programs

accessible via Supported Distance Learning (SDL). Gloria Fierro is the lead instructor in the K-4 classroom, supported by her colleagues Michelle Isadore and Wanda Alice Giroux. Gloria, an alumni of the ELCC Certificate and Diploma programs, was the valedictorian of her graduating class in 2019, and served as the student representative on the NLC Board of Governors. “We have aligned what we learned in our NLC program with the goals and mandates of Mihtatakaw Sipiy School. The mandate calls for the inclusion of culture in the classroom, which includes daily Cree instruction. The goal to have students reading by third grade means K-4 students need to develop pre-reading and pre-writing skills, so we have them trace their names, identify colours, and learn to sound out parts of words.

Georgina Bellerose, Alisha David, Michelle Isadore, Renée Tissink, and Gloria Fierro

www.northernlakescollege.ca

Michelle Isadore is a graduate of the College’s ELCC Certificate program and is on course to complete her ELCC Diploma. She is also Georgina’s daughter, and has lived her entire life in Driftpile Cree Nation. “I remember when Michelle started Kindergarten right in this exact classroom where she now teaches,” exclaims Georgina. “I remember bringing her here on her first day of school!” ELCC alumni Wanda Alice Giroux is also an EA in Gloria’s classroom. Other commitments prevented her from being present for the reunion of the alumni with their instructors, but it is clear from the way her colleagues speak of her that she is a key member of the team. As they tour the classroom, Gloria explains, “We have collectively agreed on a combined Reggio and Montessori approach. We have main areas of development that we focus on: social and emotional development and selfregulation, language development, with a focus on preliteracy skills and phonics, and incorporating Cree culture through bilingual signage, Elder oral storytelling, and crafts. We have broken up our room into learning centers which encourage learning and discovery, and make observation easier.” After the visit, instructor Renée Tissink observes, “These ladies are such a dynamic team. They have successfully applied the theory in the ELCC program

to their practice. I remember during their practicum how many ideas they had and could hardly wait to implement someday in their own programs and here they are doing just that - this time as a whole team. I am so pleased they were able to chase this dream and make it a reality, offering high-quality early childcare education for the community.”

The relationships amongst these alumni

Instructor Alisha David notes, “The strong connection that has been created is apparent. The relationships amongst these alumni is what has helped them bring what they learned into action in their classroom. The connections they have built with us, their instructors, allow them to have lasting professional support as they continue their journey as educators. Whether it is to include us during times of celebration or reaching out to us for support and ideas during times of struggle, these relationships will always act as a trusted resource they feel comfortable utilizing as they establish themselves and continue to grow.”

is what has helped

As we prepare to leave, Gloria asks, “Is there anything you would change with how we’ve set up our classroom?” It is obvious that much care, attention, and thought have gone into the preparation of the classroom. As both instructors glance around the classroom, the pride on their faces makes it clear that they think the alumni have definitely scored a home run!

have lasting professional

them bring what they learned into action in their classroom. The connections they have built with us, their instructors, allow them to

support as they continue their journey as educators. – I nstructor Alisha David

To read more alumni stories, go to northernlakescollege.ca/alumni-donors/alumni-stories

Community Report 2020

Elder Ekti’ s Tipis

take her from Northern Lakes College to International Acclaim

When Elder Ekti Cardinal arrives for her interview, she is bubbling with energy. It is a beautiful fall day and she has just made the drive from her home near Joussard to the Northern Lakes College campus in Slave Lake. A longtime instructor in the Aboriginal Arts program, Ekti taught in that capacity with the College for 23 years. Known as Margaret when she worked at the College, today she goes by Ekti, which means “over there” in Cree, “the true one” in Norwegian, and “she rides her horse along the ridge” in Sioux. Ekote in formal Cree, she was given this new name by her Elders, as ‘Margaret’ reminds her of the ten years she spent at boarding school, a time she wants to leave behind. Ekti starts the interview with a tribute to her most important teachers, her parents. Her mother taught her tentand tipi-making. Her father taught her doll-making and imparted cultural teachings. “They really lived their

www.northernlakescollege.ca

teachings. They were the knowledge keepers,” she comments. It is evident through her heartfelt words that she holds her parents in high regard. Ekti learned to make tipis in 1975, when she, her parents, and her sisters were commissioned to make 41 tipis in three months. “My mother said you cannot call yourself a tipi-maker until you’ve made at least four tipis. She said that you had to make enough in order to learn from your mistakes,” laughs Ekti. Ekti documented all of the steps of the tipi-making process during that time, and still uses the same process today. In 2006, Ekti participated in the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington, D.C. She was one of 156 Albertans selected to represent Alberta’s culture and history at the Alberta at the Smithsonian pavilion. She brought her tipis, tents, and dolls. Today, Ekti runs her own business, Kamahmahkos, providing cultural sessions and teachings to a variety of

groups. She particularly enjoys teaching moccasin-making sessions. “There is a lot of history, protocol, and folklore that goes along with the making of the moccasins,” she explains. She also facilitates workshops at the annual Knowing our Spirits Conference, including sessions called Turtle in my Tipi and Buffalo Travels. Ekti has even branched into film, with a role in Season 4 of the acclaimed Outlander series. Ekti also teaches Conversational Cree through the College’s Continuing Education & Corporate Training department, often to professionals who want to expand their cultural understanding. She wants to do her part to ensure the Cree language continues and to share its poetry with all. As she explains, “The Cree word for pencil, masinahikanatik, means ‘writing stick’. I always tell people that Cree is like a collection of tiny sonnets, full of descriptive words and images. When you speak Cree, you are speaking in sonnets.”

Ekti Cardinal holds her late brother’s jacket, which was made by her parents in the mid-1950s. It is on display at the Royal Alberta Museum.

Photo credit goes to: Chris Hsiung HIDDEN Story Productions Ltd.

Community Report 2020

Orange Shirt Day / Alberta Culture Days Northern Lakes College turned to its Supported Distance Learning model and technology to connect communities, presenters, and participants during Alberta Culture Days 2020 celebrations. The schedule of events ran through the month of September and included NLC Live Online™ sessions with presenter Stan Isadore, a Treaty 8 Cultural Resource Worker, First Nations actor, and motivational speaker. In his session, Exploring Indigenous Traditions and Teaching, he shared his wisdom and knowledge of Indigenous practices including hunting, traditional face paint, and connection with fire.

In collaboration with the Slave Lake Ukrainian Cultural Society, the College offered a series of online sessions featuring traditional Ukrainian cooking, dance costumes, and interviews with dancers of the club. The series of events culminated on September 30 with Orange Shirt Day. The College encouraged staff and students to wear an Orange Shirt, to recognize the experiences of the children who were taken from their families and placed in Residential Schools. Winners of the student draws for Orange Shirts were encouraged to post photos wearing their shirts,

www.northernlakescollege.ca

AlbertaCultureDays

.ca

The College partnered with the Peace River Museum, Archives & Mackenzie Centre to provide community members the opportunity to learn about the culture and heritage of the Town of Peace River and Northern Peace Region through a weekly, social media-based event, #FeatureFriday.

September 2020

Discover • Experience • Celebrate alongside those of the College’s Senior Leadership Team and Executive Assistants. These events, made possible through the Government of Alberta’s Culture Days grant program, were part of the celebrations occurring throughout the province during Alberta Culture Days 2020. Alberta Culture Days is the province’s largest celebration of our heritage, arts, community spirit, and cultural diversity. To learn more, visit www.AlbertaCultureDays.ca.

Convocation

NLC Convocation 2020 Impacted by Pandemic

Convocation ceremonies were scheduled to occur on June 5, 2020 in Peace River. However, with mass gathering restrictions in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the announcement by the province that such restrictions would remain in place for some time, the Northern Lakes College graduating class of 2020 opted to postpone their celebration until it can occur in a face-to-face manner. To that end, all 2020 graduates will be invited to the College’s Convocation 2021 celebration, barring continued restrictions remaining in place at that time. The traditional Capping & Pinning ceremony for Practical Nurse graduates was also postponed. The class of 2020 will be invited to the 2021 Capping & Pinning ceremony.

Convocation is the event where we recognize all of the hard work and sacrifices that lead to students’ accomplishments! It is with sadness that we realized there would be no possibility of hosting a live event this June. We look forward to celebrating the NLC class of 2020 next year. –A nn Everatt, President & CEO

Community Report 2020

“ Here for You”

When the COVID-19 pandemic challenged us to find new ways to connect with our students, Northern Lakes College staff and faculty rose to the occasion in a variety of ways, working together to create messages of hope and support.

www.northernlakescollege.ca

It was home. Alumni Joline Lambert In conversation, Joline Lambert is vibrant and energetic; it’s evident that a day spent with junior high students is a day she enjoys. “From the age of five, I aspired to be a teacher. I don’t ever want to leave the classroom,” she comments. Joline teaches at Oski Pasikoniwew Kamik (OPK) School which serves the members of the Bigstone Cree Nation in Wabasca-Desmarais. Joline grew up on the Peavine Métis Settlement, eventually becoming a member. She enrolled in the Teacher Assistant program at Northern Lakes College, graduating in 2005. A few years later, she returned to take University Studies, followed by the Aboriginal Teacher Education Program. She graduated with a Bachelor of Education in 2013. Joline spent her first year teaching kindergarten in Garden River on the Little Red River Cree Nation in 2013-2014. In the fall of 2015, she started at OPK with the Bigstone Cree Nation Education Authority as a fifth-grade teacher. In her fifth year with OPK, she was promoted to Vice-Principal for grades six to nine. In the fall of 2020, Joline returned to the classroom full time teaching Junior High math.

It was local. It was accessible.

There were about ten of us in our cohort, out of a class of about 50 people. We were close; we helped each other not only in school, but also through life in general. – Joline Lambert

When asked why she chose to study with Northern Lakes College, she does not hesitate in her reply. “It was home. It was local. It was accessible. I was a single mom and wanted to raise my children where I had family support. I also did not want to raise my kids in the city.” Joline reminisces about her time at Northern Lakes College, remembering the unity that she felt with her peers. “There were about ten of us in our cohort, out of a class of about 50 people. We were close; we helped each other not only in school, but also through life in general. Going through the program at NLC was not just an educational experience, it was like being a part of a family.” A championship Métis dancer, Joline hosts a Métis dance club at the school.

She started dance at age seven, and danced with the Edmonton Canadian Friendship Centre Métis Cultural Dancers. Joline also teaches beadwork. She has two daughters, a grandson, and a granddaughter. Of her choice to become a teacher, Joline explains, “I have known I wanted to be a teacher since I was in kindergarten. School was the place where I felt safe, and that was because of my kindergarten teacher. I wanted to be a teacher so I could be that person for other kids.” She loves her profession, but advises anyone considering a teaching career, “Make sure you do it, not for the income, but for the outcome – seeing student successes and the pride you feel when you see a student achieve.”

Community Report 2020

Northern Lakes College Students’ Association NLCSA Mission Informing students at all programming levels to use the student voice to make a positive change.

How we Impact our Communities

Serving all students, either in the campus communities or online, the NLCSA provides student leadership opportunities that maintain the social connections and wellness supports to ensure the best possible student experience. When we lead, we all succeed!

Social connections are not as easy to maintain in an online world. The NLCSA aims to increase awareness of resources available to achieve the student dream but also to support students through life’s struggles. Financial need bursaries, campus life events, and continuing education subsidies are a few services that are offered. Donations to community groups and food banks are another way the NLCSA says thank you. Many of the NLCSA executives volunteer at community schools or other nonprofit groups to ensure that we are giving back with assistance to those who need it most. We are growing our communities to be healthier and stronger through the NLCSA experience.

Student Services at NLC Featuring Counselling Services

Every Tuesday at 3:30 p.m. a member of the Counselling Team provides a live 10-minute webinar to answering students’ most commonly asked questions. Weekly Take 10 recordings are also available anytime on NLC’s YouTube channel.

Who we Are The Northern Lakes College Students’ Association (NLCSA) represents the students of Northern Lakes College and acknowledges that we are located on the traditional lands of the Indigenous peoples of Canada.

Who we Serve

The NLC Student Wellness and Counselling Services Team provides a diverse range of services and resources to students to support their well-being, manage student life, and contribute to their academic success. In 2019-2020, our team added a number of initiatives to our suite of student wellness resources.

Recognizing that mental health and well-being are contributors to success, students can book a Wellness Check Up to help them navigate the challenges of balancing their studies with student life. The personalized Wellness Check Up with an NLC Counsellor includes: • supported self-assessment • identification of strengths • goal-setting support • access to resources and services • follow-up support.

As a result of the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, the NLC Student Wellness and Counselling team set up a #copingwithcovid tile on the NLC Connect app to provide students with tips for coping, support, and a place to connect. This initiative aligns with the launch of a fully distance-based peer support program in 2020-2021.

www.northernlakescollege.ca

The Community Education Committees and Council The Northern Lakes College service region spans 164,000 square kilometres and serves over 50 communities. Over the past 50 years, NLC has contributed to community development, leadership capacity, and vibrant communities through a unique partnership with a network of local Community Education Committees (CECs) in every community with a full-service campus. Each CEC selects a member to form the Council of Community Education Committees (CCEC or Council). The Board of Governors recognizes the CCEC, a registered society, as the principal advisory body of the College. The CEC’s and their Council identify program and service needs for their communities and regions, support individual learners, and advise each other about best practices in community education.

COMMUNITY EDUCATION COMMITTEES The President appoints members nominated by local entities and organizations. These organizations include First Nation Councils, Métis Settlement Councils, municipalities, and various organizations with mandates ranging from economic development, health, forestry, oil and gas, and small business. The local NLC students’ union also nominates a student representative to the committee. The CEC administers a fund provided by the College called the Community Program Fund, which is replenished each year. Local decision-making is enabled through Community Program Funds provided to each CEC to enhance student and community member success through activities such as community education, student awards, student wellness, and promotions.

COUNCIL OF COMMUNITY EDUCATION COMMITTEES Throughout the year, chairs from each CEC attend the CCEC. The CCEC meets with the Board of Governors, President, and Management. These meetings provide the Council with the opportunity to share information and review and provide input on College goals and priority initiatives. The Council also undertakes initiatives that span across the region, looking for opportunities to collaborate on training and sharing of ideas. The CCEC organizes a yearly workshop, hosts speaker series, sponsors student awards, and partners with other organizations to bring needed training into the region.

The Council and the CECs remind us of the grassroots nature of the College, keep us connected to communities, and will continue to play a large role in shaping the vision for our College future. – Glenn Mitchell, President & CEO

Community Report 2020

Plains Midstream Canada Makes Major Gift Plains Midstream Canada (Plains) generously contributed $50,000 to the Northern Lakes College High Prairie Campus Campaign in the fall of 2020. In recognition of the gift, a trades lab in the new campus will be named the Plains Trades Lab. “Northern Lakes College values the support of Plains Midstream Canada. The High Prairie Campus is a testimony to what can be achieved when we work together in partnership. With the assistance of Plains Midstream Canada, students, staff, and regional community members will enjoy working and learning in this beautiful facility,” comments President & CEO, Glenn Mitchell.

www.northernlakescollege.ca

“The new campus is an exciting addition to High Prairie and surrounding communities. Plains’ support towards the Multi-Function Trades Lab will help to build regional capacity for trades training, not only in apprenticeships but also in pre-employment training and dual credit opportunities for high school students,” says Glen Lawrence, District Manager for Plains’ North West Alberta District. “We have assets spread across northern Alberta and employ members of these communities. Plains is proud to be supporting further education in the region and the development of the current and future workforce.”

Tolko Makes Generous Gift Tolko Industries Ltd. generously contributed to the High Prairie Campus Campaign. In recognition of the gift, a space dedicated to e-learning will be named the Tolko E-Learning Suite in the new campus. Tolko’s gift consists of a cash contribution of $17,000, in addition to an in-kind contribution of Oriented Strand Board (OSB). “Northern Lakes College is grateful for the support of Tolko Industries Ltd. This generous donation will assist the College in ensuring we can continue to successfully support the learning needs of our students in the High Prairie region. Tolko has been a strong supporter and partner to Northern Lakes College over many years and I am excited that this partnership continues,” comments President & CEO, Glenn Mitchell. “We’re proud to invest in the communities where we live and work,” says Jim Baskerville, Tolko’s

Vice President of Strand Based Business. “Northern Lakes College plays an important role in High Prairie, and we’re happy to donate to an organization that provides opportunities for education and strengthens the community.” The $24 million project is funded by the Government of Alberta’s investment of $21.6 million, along with $2.4 million committed by corporate donors, community members, and the College. The new High Prairie Campus will accommodate up to 225 students, address future growth plans, meet workforce demands in the region, and increase campus energy efficiency. The consolidation of the three High Prairie campus sites will also support specialized training in health and trades programs. The College is fitting the LEED Silver, net-zero ready campus with furniture and technology and looks forward to welcoming students, staff, and community members in 2021.

Big Lakes County Council Tours High Prairie Campus NLC was proud to tour Big Lakes County Council members and representatives from the office of MLA Pat Rehn through the new High Prairie Campus in October. Big Lakes County is a major donor to the project, with a generous contribution of $100,000, pledged in the fall of 2019. Council members were anxious to get a look at the LEED Silver, net-zero ready building which has been going up in the community of High Prairie over the last two years. Senior Director of Facilities and Ancillary Services, Paul Chaulk, pointed out the features of the facility, including geo-thermal heating and cooling, expandable spaces for

future growth, and many comfortable areas for students to learn, collaborate, and socialize. Members of Council were pleased to be able to step into the Big Lakes County Trades Classroom, a space dedicated to the instruction of trades programs. “We are appreciative of the support of Big Lakes County and are proud of the teaching and learning space the new campus will provide to NLC students and the region. This campus is comparable to learning facilities in urban centres and it is wonderful that learners in the north will have access to such a space,” comments President & CEO, Glenn Mitchell.

Big Lakes County is happy to support the construction of a facility that will train and retain a workforce in the north. As recent developments have demonstrated, environments change and upskilling and reskilling become necessary. This facility will ensure the region has access to training to keep the regional economy strong. – B ig Lakes County Reeve, Richard Simard

Big Lakes County Reeve Richard Simard, Councilors Ann Stewart and Robert Nygaard, NLC President & CEO Glenn Mitchell, MLA Constituency Manager Martine Carifelle, Councilor Ken Matthews

Community Report 2020

Thank You

TO OUR DONORS

$1,000,000 and over

$10,000 - $49,999

Shell Canada Limited

3 DM Hauling & Hoisting Ltd. AEC Oil & Gas Alberta Health Services Alberta Sustainable Resource Development Alberta Wilbert Sales Ltd. Anadarko Canada Corporation Andy’s Oilfield Hauling Ltd. ARC Resources Ltd. ATB Financial B & R Eckel’s Transport Ltd. Bearing Oilfield Service Ltd. Big Bear Energy Rentals Ltd. Boyle, Damien Burlington Resources Canada Ltd. Canadian Heritage Caterpillar Inc. Community Foundation of Northwestern Alberta Community Spirit Donation Grant Program Conoco Phillips CWB Welding Foundation D & D Well Services Devon Canada Corporation Downton’s Transport Ltd. EJR Trucking Inc. Encana Estate of Kathleen Marie Bennett Faculty Association of Northern Lakes College Finning Canada Frontier Project Solutions Garnet’s Oilfield Trucking Inc. Government of Alberta GT’s Oilfield Hauling Husky Oil Operations Limited Kinetic Transportation Ltd.

$100,000 - $999,999 Alberta Museums Association Big Lakes County Capstan Hauling Ltd. Heart and Stroke Foundation MD of Opportunity # 17 Métis Nation of Alberta MyShak Sales & Rentals Sunrise Higher Education Foundation Town of Peace River

$50,000 - $99,999 BP Canada Energy Company Brandt Tractor Ltd. Canadian Natural Resources Limited Classic Hot Shot Gift Lake Development Corporation Heartland Industries Inc. Lac la Biche Transport Ltd. Nashim, Frank and Carmen Penn West Exploration Road Train Oilfield Ltd Suncor Energy Foundation Tolko Industries Ltd.

www.northernlakescollege.ca

The Board of Governors of Northern Lakes College extends sincerest thanks to all the individuals, companies, and organizations who have made generous contributions, including those who wish to remain anonymous. Ledarco Construction & Trucking Ltd. Lesser Slave Lake Economic Alliance Lutz, Nelson McCann’s Building Movers Ltd. Mouallem, Jamel and Debbie Mouallem, Joe and Fay Mouallem, Joey Mouallem, Joey and Melane Mouallem, Joseph North West Crane Ltd. Northern Alberta Development Council Northern Lakes College Students’ Association Northern Sun Exploration Inc. Norwest Construction & Management Ltd. Ouellette, Rachel Overland Transport Ltd. Peace River Power Engineering Association Pembina Pipeline Corporation Petro-Canada Oil and Gas Plains Midstream Canada Red Deer Piling Red Planet Trucking Ltd. Roberts, Jesse Shultz, Catherine Staples Business Advantage Storm Energy Ltd. Taber Pipe Talisman Energy Inc. TC Energy Vanderwell Contractors (1971) Ltd. Wellworks Energy Services Inc. Weyerhaeuser Company Ltd. Xerox Canada Limited

$1,000 - $9,999 3C Information Solutions Inc. 561930 Alberta Ltd. O/A Pro-Blast & Painting Acton, Darcie Alberta Association of Colleges & Technical Institutes Alberta Energy Regulator Alberta Human Resources & Employment Alberta Pacific Forest Industries Inc. Anderson Exploration Ltd. Anderson, Brenda Anderson, Leonard Anderson, Randy Anderson, Shirley ATCO Electric Athabasca County Autobody Services Red Deer Ltd. Beattie, Sandra Bigstone Cree Nation Education Authority Bigstone Human Services Bigstone Ventures Ltd. (BVL) Blackrock Ventures Inc. Brewer, Linda Brian D. Larson Consulting Inc. Brilling, Shannon Bruce, Robert Brunner, Patrick Bulletproof Construction Ltd. Burkholder, Harvey Burstall LLP Business Factory Canadian Scholarship Trust Plan Cardinal, Margaret

Carwald Redi-Mix (Slave Lake) Ltd. CCT Controls Central Alberta Museums Network Chalifoux, Frank Chaulk, Paul Corporate Express Canada Inc. Alberta Division Council of Community Education Committees of NLC Cunningham, Archie DETAC Corporation Dietz, Marjorie Doug’s Gourmet Catering E-CAN Oilfield Services L.P. Eric Auger & Sons Contracting Ltd. Everatt, Ann Ewasiuk, Danny Farrelly, Richard Fofonoff, Audrey Forest Products Association of Canada Fors, Lindy Fraser, Morine Giese, Nancy Gionet, Shelley Gladue, Trevor Hestbak, Brad Highland Welding Services Holy Family Catholic Regional Division # 37 Human Resources & Skills Development Canada Iverach, Robert Kee Tas Kee Now Tribal Council Keen, Susan Koch Exploration Canada, L.P. Kushner, Joanne Laboucane, Karen LaCrete Support Services Lakeland College Lazarowich, Ivan LeSage, Robert Lesser Slave Lake Community Development Corporation

Lesser Slave Lake Forest Education Society Lesser Slave Lake Indian Regional Council Lesser Slave Lake Regional Housing Authority Lyons, Taralynn Mackenzie County Max Fuel Distributors Ltd. McCorrister, Gail Meatheringham, George Melnyk, Julia Missal, Mark Molloy’s Welding & Construction Ltd. Municipal District of Lesser Slave River #124 Native Book Centre Neidig, Rick Nicholson, Judy Northstar Energy Oil Boss Rentals Osum Oil Sands Corp. Ouellette, Reg Ouellette, Rene Parkland Industries Prabhakaran, Vari Precision Drilling Corporation Rae Wellington, Constance Rasmuson, Tim Regier, Donald Resource Industry Suppliers Association Roil Energy Services Ross, Colin Rotary Club of Slave Lake Rupertsland Institute Saitz, Amanda Schroder Oilfield Services Sterling Crane Synterra Technologies Ltd. Tett, Alex Tomkins, Noreen Tomkins, Vivian (Mitzi) Tradewell, Valerie

Tully, Kenneth Vandermeulen, Daniel Vandermeulen, Noela Vidar Forest Technologies Ltd. WAT Holdings Ltd. Whitby, Lori Wilcox, Cathy Williams, Nick Willing, Sandra Woodlands Operating Learning Foundation (WOLF) Zinyk, Jim Zone 5 Regional Council

$500 - $999 Albert, Natasha Alberta Rural Development Network Apex Distribution Inc. Armstrong, Chuck Art Gallery of Grande Prairie Associated Health Systems Beach, Trudy Beer Industrial Service Inc. Bellerose, Roland Brown, Diane Cardinal, Charlotte Cherniwchan, Lionel and Tannia Cunningham, Gerald Davies, Leigh Davis, Alane Dennis, Danielle Donald Rigging Heavy Lift Experts Dreger, Jane Drummond, David Edwards, Monica Enterprise Energy Services Inc. Fors, Darrell Groom, Rhonda Grouard Community Association Grouard Seniors Community Club

Hendry, Willie Holick, Barb Hommy-Bugarin, Shona Hopps, Susan Knight, Eileen Lafoy-Caissie, Debra LeBlanc, Melane Legal Archives Society of Alberta Livesley, Howard Lukan Inc. Marathon Canada Limited Marsh Insurance Marshall Automotive Ltd. Moore Canada, dba RR Donnelley Moore, Jennifer Muhlbeier, Donna Munro, Andrew Murphy’s Oilfield Services Ltd. Myre, Louise Neaves, Valerie Netowastenum, Connie Portobello Jobber Ramjit, Wendy Red Sky Developments Reid-Soucy, Kathy Richard, Lisa Sarai, Bernice Schell’s Carpets (Slave Lake) Ltd. SKEG Enterprises Slave Lake Adult Education Committee Slave Lake Realty (2003) Ltd. Sloan Helicopters Sniper Communications Thatcher, Jennifer Triple 6 Line Locating & Safety Services Ltd. Van Boxtel, Angelina Van Braeden, Johan Willier, Heather-Lynn

For a listing of donations under $500, visit the Northern Lakes College website.

Community Report 2020

A history of excellence!

N ew B eginnings . E ndless P ossibilities .

1201 Main Street SE Slave Lake, AB T0G 2A3 Ph: 780-849-8600 | Fax: 780-849-2570