In the News - July 2010


Industry Training Authority Calls for Action to Remedy Skills Shortage Caused by Downturn
Industry Training Authority Media Release, July 21, 2010
Industry Training Authority (ITA) is calling for a collective mobilization of resources within BC's industry training system and the employer community to meet the challenge of looming skills shortages that could harm the economy.  ITA's recently released annual report, Mobilizing to Meet the Challenge, points to a decline in industry training participation caused by the recent economic downturn as an early warning of skills shortages that lie ahead due to retiring baby boomers.  The decline in registered training participants – from 44,000 to 42,000 – is the first since ITA was created in 2004. ITA CEO Kevin Evans says the decline is the result of the inability of some employers to retain or hire apprentices due to the downturn.  "We need to encourage employers to train the workers of today for the jobs of tomorrow by fostering a strong, genuine training culture in workplaces of all sizes," says Evans. "Apprenticeship, with its combination of work-based and in-school training, is a proven pathway to do just that." Read more.
 
Selkirk’s carpentry program set kids straight, parents say
BCLOCALNEWS.com, July 20, 2010 1:54 PM
The main investor in Selkirk College’s carpentry program visited Nakusp last week to discuss the importance of the course to help them decide where to invest in the future.  Parents, council and education members alike last week all met with Interior Trading Authority (ITA) last Tuesday, July 6.  The meeting ended with no commitment made by ITA on more funding to come, but they said they would consider what was said and it would help with their fundin decisions in the future.  Kate Tognotti, dean of Selkirk College, lead the discussion for the group, asking the group to speak in an informal manner on what they thought of the program. Read more.
 
Finding Friends – and Ambiguity
Insidehighered.com New York Media Release, July 20, 2010
Gatherings of fund raisers, alumni affairs leaders, and communications experts in higher education have for years, one panelist here said, engaged in “hand-wringing about social media.” Should they get involved? Do they need to take it seriously? What is its role?  Data released here Monday at a meeting of the Council for Advancement and Support of Education suggest a partial change. The vast majority of colleges’ fund raising and communications related divisions are now using social media -- only 4 percent aren’t doing something in the field. But the hand-wringing really isn’t over. The survey notes that while some colleges have clearly articulated goals for social networking, many remain uncertain about its role, its staffing and its value.  The split in thinking here was in evidence on the question of how to define success. Andrew Gossen, senior director for social media strategy at Cornell University, said that “I think five years from now the whole [return on investment] question is going to seem naïve. It would seem like asking for the ROI on your telephone service.”  But during the Q&A, several audience members pressed with questions about return on investment. Was there evidence that alumni who are Facebook friends with the institution are more likely to give? Are there bottom-line metrics that can been used to tell whether it’s worth developing a Facebook strategy?  Read more.
 
Program promotes a new kind of tourism for the Northwest
Northwest Community College Media Release, July 19, 2010
As northwestern BC continues to adapt to what was once a thriving resource-based economy, one sector seen to have untapped potential is tourism. Northwest Community College (NWCC) has previously reacted to this potential with the creation of its Coastal Eco-Adventure Tourism program and now has added a second related program to begin this September.  The new Sustainable Tourism Certificate program provides valuable education and training for students interested in a career in tourism. The full-time, academic program is being offered at NWCC’s Terrace Campus from September 2010 through April 2011. Successful completion of first year will earn students a Sustainable Tourism Certificate. Second-year Diploma level courses are currently under development; all courses are slated for transferability to tourism degree programs offered at various BC universities.  “The Sustainable Tourism program is an opportunity for people in the Northwest to look beyond traditional resource-based economic development, and to expand on opportunities that exist to provide meaningful, sustainable and positive economic benefits to local communities, cultures and the environment,” says Seth Downs, the program’s coordinator/instructor. Read more.
 
Inside ACCC President's Update: Improving Canada's Digital Advantage
ACCC Media Release, July 16, 2010
In its recent submission to Industry Canada’s consultation on the digital economy, ACCC recommended that the federal government increase research and development funding by five percent, enhance copyright legislation to facilitate the reproduction of digital materials for colleges, establish a college infrastructure and equipment fund adequate to secure the supply of advanced skills required to support a digital economy, and allocate resources to ensure that digital learning is accessible to disadvantaged groups. Read more.
 
Alliance Pipeline donates $50,000 to Industrial Instrumentation program
Northern Lights College Media Release, July 15, 2010
The Industrial Instrumentation program at Northern Lights College is the beneficiary of a $50,000 donation from Alliance Pipeline Limited’s Community Investment Fund.  The funds are being used to purchase equipment for NLC’s Level 4 Apprenticeship program, which is offered at the Fort St. John Campus. Equipment to be purchased includes a Vibration Shaker and two sensor units, a three-level Elevator Simulator trainer, and two Level measurement trainers.  Trevor Loberg, Grande Prairie Area Manager for Alliance Pipeline, said that this donation is an important one for his company. “In our office, three-quarters of our staff are involved with instrumentation, so this is an important skill set for what we do,” Loberg said. “Educational institutions are the cornerstone of the community, and Alliance believes the Fort St. John area is an important area where we can be more involved.” Read more.
 
New advanced certificate program at College aims to get the message across
Okanagan College Media Release, July 15, 2010
Okanagan College will offer a new program this fall to address a growing demand by employers and professionals for enhanced communication skills. Starting in September, the Advanced Certificate in Communication will help students develop professional writing and public relations skills, and offer education in management communication, writing for marketing, and visual communication.  An information night will be held at 7 p.m. July 27 at Okanagan College’s Kelowna Campus, (Rm. E202 in the Centre for Learning) to explain the program and address questions that prospective students might have.  “This will interest people who already have post-secondary credentials and who can appreciate the need to develop further communication skills to advance their careers or meet employer needs,” explains Sharon Josephson, Chair of Okanagan College’s Communications department. “At a time when our world is caught up in an ever-increasing number of communication channels and challenges, it’s important to build the skills to communicate through the clutter.” Read more.
Langara College Appoints Three New Deans
Langara College Media Release, July 15, 2010
Langara College is excited to announce the appointment of three new deans. The College welcomes Dr. John Douglas Belshaw as the new Dean of Social Sciences and Management; Margaret Heldman, new Dean of Science; and Dr. Julie Longo, new Dean of Arts. Heldman’s appointment is effective immediately; Belshaw and Longo join the College on September 1, 2010. These appointments are a significant part of Langara’s strategic reorganization of its academic leadership structure. Working closely with the Vice-President Academic and Provost, as well as with the Associate Vice-President Academic and with the faculty, the deans will drive academic planning and will shape Langara’s program offerings.  “We are fortunate to have found three individuals who are strong scholars, collaborators, and academic leaders,” said Dr. Martin Gerson, Langara College Vice-President Academic and Provost. “Langara has long had excellent faculty. Our new deans will provide strong leadership to the faculty to support their teaching and give shape to their curriculum. Their appointments strengthen the College, giving us the resources to more effectively implement our strategic plan to provide our students with more relevant programs, stronger support, and more choices and opportunities.” Read more.
School of Exploration & Mining student earns award and praise
Northwest Community College Media Release, July 14, 2010
Northwest Community College (NWCC) student John MacIntyre, a graduate of the Environmental Monitor Assistant Program (EMAP) is the 2010 recipient of the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada Award. The $500-award recognizes students with a combination of high academic standing, leadership, service and best all-round performance, as selected by the EMAP faculty.Andrea Kosalko, Manager of NWCC’s School of Exploration & Mining (SEM), says EMAP staff selected MacIntyre for the prestigious award because he achieved the highest overall academic mark and because of his strong leadership and the support he provided to his fellow students.  “John demonstrated leadership in the classroom and on field trips,” said Kosalko. “He led evening tutorials for students who were struggling with their own learning as well as extracurricular hikes, trail building and fort building. In particular, he actively sought out students who were struggling and provided emotional and academic support. Read more.
 
Camosun coach brings Team BC training camp to Victoria
Camosun Media Release, July 14, 2010
Twenty-eight of British Columbia’s top male volleyball athletes will converge upon Victoria over the next twelve days to hone their skills at the 19U Team BC Training Camp led by Camosun College Chargers head coach and former National Team captain, Charles Parkinson.  “This year’s Provincial team program is comprised of two elements,” explained Coach Parkinson. “A 19U travel team which will represent BC in the National Team Challenge Cup and an 18U training team made up of prospective athletes that will represent BC in the 2013 Canada Games.”  The 2010 National Team Challenge Cup (NTCC) is scheduled for July 23-25 in Toronto and will pit Provincial Teams from across the country against each other for the title. This year, the tournament will also be used as an identification/selection camp for Team Canada's Junior Men's National Team. Read more.
 
Ujjal Dosanjh Named 2010 Langara Outstanding Alumni
Langara Media Release, July 13, 2010
Vancouver, BC - The Honourable Ujjal Dosanjh (P.C., Q.C., B.A., LL.B) was awarded the 2010 Langara College Outstanding Alumni Award for Public Service. This annual award celebrates the contribution of exceptional individuals who have enhanced the reputation of the College through their inspirational career, public service, community service, athletic, arts and culture, or academic achievements. The award was presented at Langara's Annual Awards Luncheon held on June 23, 2010.Dosanjh, who began his post-secondary education in the Arts and Science program at Langara College, has served the people of British Columbia for over 35 years. He is a lawyer and a vocal advocate for immigrant and workers' rights. Over the years, he has worked and volunteered with organizations such as the Farm Workers' Legal Information Service (later known as the Canadian Farm Workers' Union), BC Civil Liberties Association, Vancouver Multicultural Society, Labour Advocacy Research Association, MOSAIC Immigrant Services Centre, and South Vancouver Neighbourhood House. Read more.
Greater health education access for northern B.C.
Northern Lights College Media Release, July 9, 2010
The Province of British Columbia is investing $48,000 at Northern Lights College to expand its Health Care Assistant program, announced Pat Pimm, MLA for Peace River North. “This is exciting news for Fort St. John and Dawson Creek. Students who study in rural communities are more likely to start their careers in those communities,” said Pimm. “We are helping to build a strong northern health care sector by supporting health education programs like this one at Northern Lights College.”  This one-time funding will support six additional spaces in the health care assistant programs at Northern Lights College’s Fort St. John and Dawson Creek campuses in 2010-11. Health care assistant graduates will provide health care in a variety of institutional and community settings, including both home support agencies and residential care facilities. Read more.
 
Gov. Gen. witnesses locally-carved totem pole unveiling
Northwest Community College Media Release, July 9, 2010
A totem pole designed and carved by instructors and graduates of the Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art was unveiled Sunday, July 4 in Chengdu, China in a ceremony presided over by a Canadian delegation that included Her Excellency the Right Honourable Gov. Gen. Michaëlle Jean and Grand Chief Edward John of the First Nations Summit.  Representing Northwest Community College (NWCC) and the Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art (FDS) was master carver and FDS program coordinator Stan Bevan.  "I was honoured that I was able to represent Northwest Community College, along with First Nations Summit, Grand Chief Edward John, Chief Dan Smith, Kitselas representative Wilfred Jr. Bennett and Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada in presenting the totem pole to Beichuan’s Qiang people," said Bevan. Read more.
 
Banner year for college
BCLOCALNEWS.com coverage,July 08, 2010
While the public education system continues to grapple with declining enrolment, the upward trend of students at North Island College is striking.  NIC registered almost 200 more full-time equivalent students in 2009-10 than the previous school year, leading staff to call the just-completed period a banner year.  The college recorded an increase of eight per cent in student FTE slots funded by the Ministry of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development and Industry Training Authority. That’s crucial considering provincial funding is based on the number of students enrolled.  University transfer was especially strong, marking the highest level in seven years at the college. Read more.
 
Camosun receives $54,000 for Aboriginal youth computer science project: NSERC grant provides $18,000 in each of three years to support developmentof ANCEStor project
Camosun College Media Release, July 8, 2010
Camosun College is one of 51 organizations across Canada to receive funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), as part of the PromoScience funding aimed at inspiring young people to choose careers in science and engineering.  Camosun will receive $18,000 in each of three years to develop a pilot program known as ANCEStor (Aboriginal youth awareNess of ComputEr Science.) ANCEStor teaches the concepts of computer programming by engaging Aboriginal youth in cultural story-telling.  “The value of story-telling as a teaching tool is well recognized,” says Dr. Marla Weston, computer science instructor and one of the project leaders. “Telling a story gives value and significance to events that have meaning in their lives. Students will learn more if they feel empowered as participants, rather than being passive recipients of knowledge.”  Read more.
Construction tender awarded for Quesnel campus
College of New Caledonia Media Release, July 7, 2010
PCL Constructors Inc. is the successful bidder for the Phase 2 expansion of the North Cariboo Community Campus project. The Kelowna-based company will likely begin mobilization of equipment in mid-July, for the $9.8-million expansion of CNC’s Quesnel campus.  “There are still a few details that need to be worked out,” said Jim Hoyer, CNC director of facilities services.  The 24,000 square feet (2,223 square metres) building will accommodate a variety of trades and technical programs, including: welding, carpentry, electrical, plumbing, power engineer, agro-forestry, horticulture and animal science.  In April 2009, CNC received almost $30 million from the federal and provincial governments to build and renovate buildings at its campuses in Prince George and Quesnel. Read more.
 
Get Paid to Learn at NIC
North Island College Media Release, July 7, 2010
The Canadian Forces (CF) has accredited North Island College’s Industrial Automation Technician program, making NIC students eligible to receive a salary with full benefits while they study. Industrial Automation Technician graduates can gain advanced standing as a Naval Electronics Technician or Naval Weapons Technician through the Canadian Forces – Non- Commissioned Member Subsidized Education Plan (NCM-SEP). The Plan pays all education and training costs for a CF-approved college program like NIC’s, provides a salary while you go to school, an annual vacation, and guarantees you a job upon graduation. This partnership between the Canadian Forces and Canadian Colleges originated three years ago from a goal to improve the cost effectiveness of occupational training for the Forces, explained Paul Toupin, Manager Canadian Partnership Programs with the Association of Canadian Community Colleges, but it is only recently that it has really caught on. “Until last year, the money set aside for the SEP was never fully utilized. This past year we met the targets in just 9 months,” Toupin said. “As a result, the Canadian Forces have reduced their budget for recruitment but increased the funding for the SEP. This speaks volumes about the quality of training and education being delivered by the colleges.”  Read more.
 
VCC diesel camp to teach young women the ABCs of diesel mechanics
Vancouver Community College Media Release, July 7, 2010
A group of young women taking a summer camp at VCC July 12 to 16 won't be donning shorts and sunglasses, but coveralls and safety goggles.  The second annual 2010 Cummins Western Canada Diesel 101 Summer Camp for Young Women will be teaching over a dozen girls and women aged 14 to 24 how to take apart and rebuild a diesel engine. At the completion of the task at last year's session, a cheer erupted from the group when the engine roared to life.  The camp, run in partnership with engine-maker Cummins Western Canada, was so successful in its inaugural year that another session was planned for this year.  Read more.
 
VCC health care assistant program to add stream with focus on Aboriginal students
Vancouver Community College Media Release, June 7, 2010
Vancouver Community College's health care assistant program is expanding to include a stream for Aboriginal students, with the help of one-time funding from B.C.'s Ministry of Advanced Education.  Vancouver Community College is also partnering with the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology to train Aboriginal students as medical office assistants in 2010-11. VCC will help with delivery of the Aboriginal college's medical office assistant program and will also provide curriculum support and instructor mentorship to NVIT.  "Vancouver Community College is pleased to expand the health care assistant program with a focus on Aboriginal students," says VCC president Kathy Kinloch. "This program will integrate Aboriginal culture and issues throughout the curriculum, and the skills our Aboriginal students gain will be an invaluable asset to the communities they serve in British Columbia."  Read more.
 
FortisBC contribution energizes Centre of Excellence fundraising campaign
Okanagan College Media Release, July 5, 2010
FortisBC is supporting the establishment of Penticton’s new Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation with a $50,000 donation to create dedicated classroom space for students entering the technologically challenging electrical apprenticeship program.  FortisBC Inc., a Canadian-owned electric utility with 14 field offices throughout the Southern Interior, has a longstanding relationship with Okanagan College since 1992.  John Walker, President and CEO of FortisBC and Terasen Gas Inc., made the announcement in Kelowna this morning in front of dozens of electrical apprentice students. Over the years, the company has helped the Kelowna campus save more than 1.3 megawatts, or 5,808,839 kwh of energy — enough to power nearly 450 homes for a year. They’ve also provided more than $600,000 in energy efficiency rebates. Read more.
 
Douglas College helps new Canadians fill health care gaps
Douglas College Media Release, July 2, 2010
Like many new immigrants, Mahshid G. and Hooman S. faced their share of challenges when they came to Canada from Iran in 2007.  They had no family or friends in their new country. And despite being medical doctors in their own countries, they had zero job prospects in Canada.  "It was hard to go from a high level in your society to a situation where you are jobless," says Mahshid. "It's worth it in the end, because it's a better life here for us."  Shortly after coming to Canada, the couple discovered the Training Group at Douglas College Skills Connect for Immigrants Program, which helps new Canadians find employment in their field of expertise.  Today, they are among 18 new Canadians who started medical residencies on July 1 through the Ministry of Health's International Medical Graduates of British Columbia Program. Hooman heads into a five year orthopedic surgery residency, while Mahshid is working in family medicine for two years.  "Skilled immigrants are a rich and untapped resource that can help fill important gaps in the labour market, particularly in important areas like health care," says Lois Taylor, who manages the Skills Connect for Immigrants Program at Douglas College. "These clients have devoted a great deal of time and energy to achieve their goals, as have the Douglas College Skills Connect Career Consultants who assisted them through the licensing process, so we're very proud of what they have achieved together."  Read more.
 

In the News - June 2010

GREATER HEALTH EDUCATION ACCESS FOR VANCOUVER ISLAND
Ministry of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development Media Release, June 28, 2010
The Province is investing $477,820 at North Island College to train 30 practical nurses and 30 health care assistants, announced Don McRae, MLA for Comox Valley. “This funding means that for the first time, practical nurse education can be offered in Port Hardy,” said Comox Valley MLA Don McRae. “We are committed to providing more access, closer to home for B.C. students, which is great news for the Comox Valley.” This one-time funding will double the student spaces for the health care assistant program and fund an evening practical nursing program at North Island College’s Comox Valley campus in 2010-11. It will also fund a health care assistant program and a new practical nurse access program at the college’s Port Hardy campus. The new practical nursing access program allows for laddering of graduates from last year’s Port Hardy health care assistant program, which received one-time government funding in 2009-10. Read more.
 
Not just for hippies anymore
College of the Rockies Media Release, June 30, 2010
Many people are rediscovering the advantages and benefits of building homes out of natural products such as straw bales, sand, and clay. The art of using these techniques has been updated and refined and being taught in a series of workshops in the Natural Building School at the Kimberley Campus of College of the Rockies.  Running all summer long, these workshops provide hands-on instruction in a project-based learning environment from qualified professionals. A variety of techniques and applications are covered in each workshop which range from two days to a full week in length. Along with using natural building materials and solar energy systems, making natural plasters and post and beam construction are also covered.  From July 14 -- 21 you can take part in the Post and Beam for Natural Infills workshop which covers the basics of post and beam construction as important components of natural construction. The Earthen Building (adobe and cob) workshop takes place July 22 and 23 and covers basic design, foundations, testing clay, making bricks and creativity with earthen construction.  On August 3 and 4 the Introduction to Photovoltaics (solar energy) workshop takes place and introduces participants to PV system equipment, how the components interact, design principles of different PV systems, types of applications, site suitability, system mounting options and installation, and advances in PV technology and the PV industry in general. Read more.
 
Tenth Street residence goes for gold
Selkirk College Media Release, June 29, 2010
With sledge hammers and jack hammers in hand, workers are knocking out walls and breaking open new spaces during the demolition phase of Selkirk College’s Tenth Street residence project in Nelson. “You can pretty much see right through the building now,” explains Wildstone Construction and Engineering Project Manager Grant Rae. “This demolition process is very different than your typical method. We literally have marked each wall that has to be taken out and each wall that has to stay in place. This is part of our goal to create as little waste as possible and utilize the existing structural components of the building.”  The residence renovation project is pursuing Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold level certification. Factors that will contribute to this rating include building re-use, improved energy and water efficiency, indoor air quality management, use of recycled and low emitting materials and reduced construction waste.  Read more.
EMPLOYERS, EMPLOYEES WIN WITH ESSENTIAL SKILLS TRAINING
Ministry of Advanced Education and labour Market Development Media Release, June 28, 2010
$2 million in funding will create new essential skills training opportunities for over 500 British Columbians, helping employees gain the skills they need to succeed, increasing productivity for employers, and supporting the growth of B.C.’s economy, Moira Stilwell, Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development announced today. “Essential skills are the foundation for the jobs and skills of our future,” said Stilwell. “Through programs like SkillsPlus, British Columbians can access the tools they need to improve their skills and support the growth of B.C. businesses to create jobs and contribute to our economic recovery.” SkillsPlus is a unique program that brings delivery of essential skills training to the workplace, building them into everyday employee training and work practices. Essential skills are identified as reading text, document use, numeracy, writing, oral communication, working with others, continuous learning, thinking skills and computer use. According to Statistics Canada, a one-per cent gain in the average literacy / numeracy skill level in Canada would create a permanent increase of $18.4 billion per year in the country’s Gross Domestic Product. Read more.
 
Healing Perspectives wins outstanding achievement award: National Campus & Community Radio Association honours Indigenous radio show
Camosun College Media Release, June 28, 2010
Healing Perspectives, a weekly radio show that airs on Camosun’s radio station, CKMO, won the Outstanding Achievement Award in the Aboriginal Affairs and Cultural programming category. The National Campus and Community Radio Association (NCRA) announced the award on June 11, 2010.  Healing Perspectives is an hour-long talk show that brings Aboriginal students and community members together to discuss a variety of topics such as identity, spirituality, leadership, and motivation. The format mirrors an Indigenous healing circle and is moderated by Trevor Day, a student in Camosun’s Indigenous Studies program.  “We’re thrilled with this award,” says Brad Edwards, CKMO station supervisor. “Much of the credit goes to Trevor Day for his talent as a moderator. I’ve had a number of phone calls from people telling me how much they appreciate the show, thanking us for acknowledging issues that matter to them.”  Read more.
 
NIC Offers First Year Engineering Students Competitive Advantage
North Island College Media Release, June 28, 2010
North Island College is excited to offer first-year engineering students a head start towards completing a Bachelor of Engineering degree at the University of Victoria. “What we are offering our students is a course by course articulated transfer arrangement,” explains Dennis Lightfoot, NIC’s Mathematics and Science Instructor.  “It works much better than a block transfer for students who are returning to school, have families and jobs or need to upgrade.  They can do as many or as few courses as they like, in any order, over any time period and still complete the transfer to UVIC.  It provides so much flexibility.” The Math and Sciences Department has been working closely with UVIC to make this transfer arrangement a reality for NIC engineering students and their timing could not have been better.  “NIC approached us just as we were beginning our curriculum development process,” states LeAnne Golinsky, Admissions/Advising Officer for the Bachelor of Engineering/Bachelor of Software Engineering Program at UVIC.  “Their interest in coming on board was ideally timed.  The new courses they have developed will allow seamless transfer into our second year.” Read more.
 
First class of Writing and Publishing students to graduate in Vernon
Okanagan Media Release, June 25, 2010
Okanagan College will celebrate the achievements of 164 graduates in Vernon at the fourth of five Convocation ceremonies this month. Among those graduates will be Darbi Fawcett, who is one the first graduates of Okanagan College’s Writing and Publishing diploma program.  Fawcett enrolled in the inaugural program in 2008 after graduating from Salmon Arm Secondary School. An Enderby resident, Fawcett was interested in pursuing an education in writing and publishing and upon hearing about Okanagan College’s new program, was among the first to register.  “The writing and publishing program was my first choice,” explained Fawcett. “I love books and was searching for a way to further my education and explore my passion in the field. Okanagan College was the best option because I could commute to the Vernon campus while living at home and saving some money.”  The two-year full-time program ran Fawcett through her paces. The first year of the Arts program concentrates heavily on all forms of writing with an emphasis on creative writing. The first year also gives a background in business to reflect the nature of the publishing industry. The second-year curriculum includes a variety of professional projects, which students can use as part of a creative portfolio. Read more.
 
Enrolment up at North Island College
Comox Valley Echo, June 25, 2010
A report tabled at the North Island College Board of Governors meeting shows that NIC is an increasingly popular choice for many students entering the world of post-secondary education.  The report measures progress in terms of Full Time Equivalent (FTE) hours to figure out how much more (or less) instruction is being provided by NIC. It has already been sent to the B.C. government's Ministry of Advanced Education and Labor Market Development for evaluation.  The report finds that English, Humanities and Social Sciences are up by 17, 29 and 16 per cent respectively. Many other areas of study also saw increased growth, particularly in Early Childhood Care and Education, Health and Human Services.  Read more.
 
Douglas researchers seek to control greenhouse pests without use of chemicals
Douglas College Media Release, June 24, 2010
Douglas College has been awarded a $200,000 grant, over two years, to study the biological control of insect pests in B.C. vegetable greenhouses.  The award was made by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), under its College and Community Innovation Program. The grant will support a two-year research project on the use of predators and parasitoids for the management of insect pests that cause annual crop losses in BC's tomato, pepper and cucumber greenhouses.  The researchers hope to develop one or more new biological control products as well as to optimize the use of existing products for aphid and psyllid management. They will also develop molecular-biology tools for aphid parasitoid identification which could be used to facilitate research and practice of biological control in greenhouses. Douglas College's partners in the research are: the BC Greenhouse Growers' Association, Applied Bio-nomics Ltd, the Bug Factory Ltd., Koppert Canada Biological Systems, and Kwantlen Polytechnic University, whose new insect biocontrol laboratory will be the site of much of the work. Read more.
 
New mental health worker program celebrates first graduates
Northwest Community College Media Release, June 24, 2010
The inaugural session of the Aboriginal Community Mental Health Worker (ACMHW) program at Northwest Community College’s (NWCC) Smithers Campus will see a happy ending for students from Moricetown and Smithers who graduate this Friday.  The six-month ACMHW program is a unique combination of First Nations health studies and community mental health courses, along with health access English upgrading and LPAT 100 Student Success classes.  The First Nations Health Studies portion of the program provides students with an overview of Aboriginal culture and history and focuses on the societal, political, spiritual and cultural issues that impact on the student’s role as a mental health worker and caregiver within a First Nations context. The community mental health segment includes an extensive introduction to the main concepts in mental health practice, plus coursework focused on communication and the therapeutic relationship, the concept of recovery, addictions, and cultural influences in mental health. The program finishes with a four-week community-based clinical placements in Smithers, Moricetown, Hazelton and Terrace. Read more.
 
VCC wins Vancouver's honourable mention for access, inclusion
Vancouver community College Media Release, June 23, 2010
Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson presented VCC with an honourable mention recently, under the city's Access and Inclusion program.  In VCC's application, four areas were highlighted: community and career education; visually impaired programs; deaf and hard of hearing programs; and interpreting and braille services.  "We are leaders in promoting diversity, inclusiveness and equity in individual and social development," says Lesley Anderson, interim associate director of development for the VCC Foundation. "Our belief in equitable access for all individuals can be seen in the way we work together and throughout our many programs, services and college initiatives." Read more.
 
CHBA South Okanagan invests in the future
Okanagan College Media Release, June 23, 2010
The Canadian Home Builders’ Association of the South Okanagan understands the importance of investing in the future. That’s why the group recently announced a $10,000 donation to Okanagan College’s Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation along with an annual $3,000 contribution to fund awards for students enrolled in Residential Construction programs at the Penticton campus. “Our board and members view this contribution to Okanagan College and its Centre of Excellence as an important investment in the future of our youth and of this region,” said Doug Carnegie, Treasurer of the CHBA South Okanagan and Commercial Account Manager for Valley First. “Investing in students and in the construction of the Centre of Excellence will deliver a large payback to our local economy. Read more.
 
BC Ferries donates crane truck to train Camosun students
Camsoun College Media Release, June 22, 2010
BC Ferries is donating a 70-foot crane truck to help train students in Camosun College’s Heavy Duty/Commercial Transport Mechanics program. “BC Ferries is very supportive of education in the trades discipline so we are pleased to donate our decommissioned crane truck to Camosun College for training purposes,” says Mark Collins, BC Ferries’ Vice President of Engineering and Terminal Construction. “The students currently enrolled in the program today could potentially join our terminal maintenance workforce in the future.” Read more.
Artistic Director Kathryn Shaw garners GVPTA Career Achievement Award
Langara Media Release, June 22, 2010
Kathryn Shaw, Artistic Director of Studio 58, the professional theatre training program at Langara College, is the 2010 recipient of the Greater Vancouver Professional Theatre Alliance (GVPTA) Career Achievement Award given out at the Jessie Richardson Theatre Awards last evening.  “It truly is an honour to be recognized by the professional theatre community with the Career Achievement Award.  I said in my acceptance speech that the two best decisions I made in my life were moving to British Columbia in 1972 and going to see Antony Holland about teaching for Studio 58 at Langara College in 1974.  As a result of those decisions I landed in the middle of a burgeoning theatre community brimming with opportunity and I found the place to exercise my passion for teaching future professionals. Read more.
 
Every day is Aboriginal Day at Camosun
Camosun College Media Release, June 21, 2010
Aboriginal students have a place at Camosun. In fact, they have many places.  Each year, Camosun College welcomes more than 700 Aboriginal students from over 50 First Nations, including Métis and Inuit. These students are enrolled in certificate, diploma and degree programs across the college, as well as in programs specifically designed with an Indigenous perspective.  Through respectful community partnerships, Camosun also offers upgrading and career exploration programs at the Victoria Native Friendship Centre, Songhees Employment Learning Centre, Saanich Indian School Board and other off-campus sites. For many Aboriginal students, these community-based classes become a springboard for further education and career training. Read more.
 
Winners of this year's Alumni Award of Distinction represent diverse cultures, career paths
Vancouver Community College Media Release, June 18, 2010
A Coast Salish Elder and the executive chef at the Fairmont Pacific Rim are this year's recipients of the VCC Alumni Award of Distinction. Both are testament to VCC's broad range of programs.  Larry Grant is a recognized Musqueam language expert and adjunct professor as well as a journeyed tradesman and community volunteer. He graduated from the automotive program of VCC's predecessor - Vancouver Vocational Institute - in 1959. With roots in both the Musqueam and Chinatown communities, Grant is committed to community and lifelong education.  In his address, Grant urged the VCC graduates to be open to learning new things, even when the value of that knowledge isn't immediately apparent. All knowledge, he said, is a benefit in the long run and creates opportunity. "When that door opens, don't be afraid to move," he said.  Read more.
 
Rick Etkin Named 2010 Langara Outstanding Alumni
Langara Media Release, June 17, 2010
Rick Etkin is the recipient of the 2010 Langara College Outstanding Alumni Award for Industry Achievement. The annual award celebrates the contribution of exceptional individuals who have enhanced the reputation of the College through their inspirational career, public service, community service, athletic, arts and culture, or academic achievements. He was awarded the honour at the College's 44th annual Convocation Ceremony held on June 3.  Since his graduation from the Langara College Photo Technician program in 1978, Etkin has owned and operated a successful advertising photography and commercial production business. Read more.
 
Northwest Community College Media Release, June 17, 2010
NWCC President accepts job offer in Manitoba
Northwest Community College (NWCC) President Stephanie Forsyth announced today that she has accepted the position of President at Red River College of Applied Arts, Science & Technology in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Forsyth will assume her new position on September 27, 2010. Forsyth has been NWCC President since September 2000 and, under her leadership, the College has transformed the way post-secondary education is conceived and delivered in the Northwest and has celebrated several noteworthy accomplishments. Forsyth has focused on the indigenization of NWCC, which has seen the number of Aboriginal students at the College rise to over 40 per cent. She is credited with advancing several initiatives toward this goal, such as the May 2010 opening of Waap Galts’ap, the first-ever longhouse built on a Canadian college campus. Forsyth also led in the establishment of the House of Learning & Applied Research, the Challenging the Paradigm Conference, the establishment of a First Nations Council, incorporating the wisdom of Elders into the structure of NWCC and the bringing together of all eight First Nations in the territory served by NWCC to agree to and bless an All Nations totem pole raised at the Terrace Campus. Read more.
Indigenous business students raise $10,000 for student aid
 
Blessing the beginning-Camosun soon to have new Aboriginal Gathering Place
Camsoun College Media Release, June 17, 2010
Three eagles circled far above, as the construction foreman was asked to delay the start of Camosun’s new Aboriginal Gathering Place. It was important to first hold a blessing ceremony, he was told, before any land was disturbed.  On May 5, 2010, Camosun’s Aboriginal Education and Community Connections (AECC) department held the blessing ceremony at Lansdowne campus, where the new Aboriginal Gathering Place is now being built. Lansdowne campus sits on Coast Salish land, and was known as a place to gather camas bulbs, a main staple in the traditional diets of First Nations people.  To guide the blessing ceremony, AECC invited two well-respected spiritual leaders: Mary Ann Thomas of the Esquimalt First Nation and Elmer George of the Songhees, or Lekwungen Nation.  Read more.
IBL students posing with auction items.
Camosun Media Release, June 17, 2010
Indigenous Business Leadership students and auction organizers Ann-Marie Livingston (left) and Kristi Thiele raised $10,000, along with their classmates, for student support.  Camosun’s Indigenous Business Leadership (IBL) students raised $10,000 for student aid at their first-ever business mixer and art auction fundraiser this past April.  The networking and fundraising event was a second-year class project created and managed by 12 students.  “The experience was a lesson in leadership development, networking, team work, time management, marketing, organization, budgeting, volunteer and event management,” says Program Leader Susanne Thiessen.“I think the students did a superb job.” Read more.
Keyera announces signing of MOU with NLC on Petroleum Industry Training
Northern Lights Media Release, June 16, 2010
Keyera Energy Management Ltd, a subsidiary of Keyera Facilities Income Fund, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Northern Lights College, the Province of British Columbia, and Lakeland College with respect to the ongoing development of petroleum-related training and education programs for the oil and gas industry.  “This is a great example of how industry can work together with educational institutions and provincial governments to develop innovative career-based programs,” said Jim Bertram, Keyera President and Chief Executive Officer. “We at Keyera are very proud to be an industry leader in training and education and are excited about the opportunities to bring our Competency Management and Development System (CMDS) to British Columbia.”  Keyera originally developed CMDS as a training and development program for its employees as part of its commitment to a safe and healthy work environment. Since that time, Keyera, with the support of the petroleum industry, has worked with Lakeland College to develop College Certificate and Diploma programs in Alberta based on CMDS. Keyera is proud to be able to pursue a similar initiative in British Columbia with Northern Lights College.  Read more.
 
Selkirk students dig into their studies
Selkirk Media Release, June 16, 2010
Students from Selkirk College’s School of University Arts & Sciences dug into their studies through an archaeological field school at Zuckerberg Island in Castlegar from June 7-11.  During the week, archaeological sites were set up in and around former kekulis (remains of underground houses built by First Nations people) and yards on the Island. Student groups were put in charge of one by one metre squares of land and were required to dig in 10 centimetre increments, recording what they did and did not find as they went along.  Student groups were able to uncover parts of tools and lithic scatter (waste flakes that are chipped off stone as a result of making artifacts). Lithic scatters are a great indicator of human activities, as it often means that someone was actually making tools at that location. The most common types of material associated with the artifacts found were (in order of quantity), Kootenay argillaceous chert (locally known as Kootenay argillite), chert and basalt. Read more.
 
College of the Rockies Announces its First Degree
College of the Rockies Media Release, June 16, 2010
College of the Rockies is celebrating its 35th anniversary this year. What better achievement could it obtain than approval from the Degree Quality Assessment Board of British Columbia and the Ministry of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development to be able to confer its first, very own College of the Rockies’ degree.Becoming a degree-granting post-secondary institution is not an easy task. There are many standards, evaluations and criteria to meet, and the process takes years. This is why COTR is proud to announce its Bachelor of Business Administration in Sustainable Business Practices degree commencing September 7, 2010.  MLA Bill Bennett said, "I congratulate College of the Rockies on behalf of the people of the East Kootenay. It's a major step for a post-secondary institution to be able to confer its own degree and I'm hopeful this is just the first of many." Read more.
Douglas College Grad wins provincial recognition
Douglas College Media Release, June 16, 2010
When Anna Winters made the fateful decision to return to school, she packed a lot of anxiety along with her books."I was terrified on the first day of classes," Winters recalls. "I'd been out of school for more than 20 years and I wasn't sure I could do it."She clearly got the hang of it; on June 3, Winters graduated from Douglas College's Health Care Support Worker Certificate program as the recipient of the Lieutenant Governor's Silver Medal. This prestigious medal is awarded on behalf of the Honourable Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia. The winner must be a student who has achieved high standing in a vocational or career program of less than two years duration, and who has contributed in a positive way to the college or community. Winters finished her program with an overall Grade Point Average of 4.23 out of a possible 4.33.The medal caps off an eventful year for the Coquitlam resident, starting with her decision to return to school.  Read more.
 
Canadian Navy Partnership with College: Steers New Course to Technology Diploma and Naval Career
Okanagan College Media Release, June 15, 2010
Early one morning late last month, Chantel Boychuk was doing what most college students do after completing a grueling first year of intense study: enjoying well-earned sleep.  The phone call that woke her was welcome and expected. It was the Canadian Forces recruiting centre letting her know it was full steam ahead with her enrollment in the navy. The bleary eyed student was about to become Ordinary Seaman Under-Training Boychuk.  What this means, under the Non-Commissioned Member Subsidized Education Plan (NCM SEP), is the Canadian Forces will be picking up the tab for Chantel’s last year of her two-year Electronic Engineering Technology diploma including books, tuition and any necessary equipment or tools while providing her with a salary of $37,000 for the year. She receives full medical and dental coverage and all of her time in school qualifies towards a military pension. Further, she gets to enjoy 20 days of paid vacation this year, which is standard for all members of the Canadian Forces.  “It was great news,” said Chantel, who is among the first students at Okanagan College to take advantage of an “all expenses paid” technical education offered by the navy. She started the diploma program without prior knowledge of NCM SEP and only became aware after a presentation made by Petty Officer First Class Mike Babcock in September, 2009.
 
New Executive Director of College Advancement Appointed
Langara College Media Release, June 14, 2010
Langara College announces the appointment of Peggy MacDonald as its new Executive Director of College Advancement. MacDonald will be responsible for the overall direction and execution of fund development activities.  She will work to raise Langara College’s charitable profile and promote philanthropic giving opportunities.  “Peggy is a great addition to the Langara team,” said Dr. David Ross, president of Langara College.  “Her passion for education and wealth of experience in fundraising in the post-secondary environment will enable us to develop and nurture new donors, strengthen our relationship with alumni and current students, and align our fundraising strategies and programs with Langara’s strategic goals.”  MacDonald has a Master of Business Administration from the University of Regina, Bachelor of Arts from the University of Alberta, as well as CFRE (Certified Fund Raising Executive) Certification. She has previously provided fundraising leadership at UBC’s Sauder School of Business, Red Deer College, the University of Regina, and the United Way of Regina. Read more.
Camosun plumbing apprentice wins national gold!
Camosun College Media Release, June 11, 2010
Congratulations to Landon Martin, the new national champion plumbing apprentice! Martin is a fourth year plumbing apprentice with plumbing and heating contractor, M. Griffin Ltd. and has been attending Camosun College for his required technical training each year.  This is the second year in a row for a Camosun apprentice to take the top Canadian title. Camosun apprentice Alasdair Reid won the title in 2009.  To qualify for the national competition, hosted by the, United Association in Canada, (UA) Martin first had to win the Western Regional competition held in Edmonton April 21-23, 2010. The national competition was then held June 1-3, again in Edmonton, where he defeated the two top apprentices from the central and eastern regions.  Read more.
Co-op Education enhances learning experiences
Selkirk College Media Release, June 11, 2010
Selkirk College’s Co-operative (Co-op) Education program is continuing to provide students with opportunities to expand their learning experiences through effective work placements.  Currently enrolled in the Bachelor of Geographic Information Systems Degree program (BGIS), Selkirk student Tammy Steen has had one previous work term with BC Timber Sales in Campbell River and is currently fulfilling another work term with the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary (RDKB).  She says her work terms have been excellent in terms of gaining relative work experience; networking and becoming a “known entity” to the employers; and expanding her confidence and skill set.  “I’m so glad I have had the opportunity to participate in the Co-op Education program!” says Tammy. “With work experience under my belt, future potential employers will be more willing to hire me. The learning environment at both my Co-op placements has been excellent. The on-the-job training gives me the opportunity to learn while earning a reasonable wage.”  Read more.
 
Distinguished Alumni Award recipient: Arthur Vickers- Camosun College Spring Graduation Ceremony
Camosun College Media Release, June 11, 2010
Artist. Carpenter. Storyteller. Arthur Vickers is a renowned contemporary First Nations artist and this year’s recipient of the Camosun College Distinguished Alumni Award.  Vickers’ works of art are internationally sought-after. The Arthur Vickers Shipyard Gallery in Cowichan Bay, on Vancouver Island, displays many of his pieces inspired by his love of storytelling and the people and the natural beauty of Canada’s rugged west coast.  Born in Northern British Columbia, his mother was of English and Canadian heritage while his father was of Heiltsuk and Tsimshian First Nations descent. He spent his youth as a fisherman, graduated from Camosun College in 1971 as a journeyman carpenter, and today makes his living as a “visual poet.”  Often described as a “modern day renaissance man,” Vickers says much of his insights today evolved from his childhood. As a boy he travelled up and down BC’s coast with his Ya'as (grandfather), a canoe carver and fisherman. They would often stop on Porcher Island, just south of Prince Rupert, to work on the boat and spend time amongst the Scandinavian craftsmen who were building boats by hand. Their use of red and yellow cedar materials would later become very important to Vickers and his artwork.  Travelling with his grandfather taught Vickers the value of protecting the environment and caring for others less fortunate. He always held these values close to his heart and has been deeply involved and supportive of environmental and social initiatives throughout his life. Read more.
 
VCC to represent Canada at the 2012 World Culinary Olympics
Vancouver Community College Media Release, June 10, 2010
Weeks of jangled nerves, sacrificed sleep, and hours in the kitchen.  It all paid off for VCC's junior chef team earlier this month when it won the honour of representing Canada in the 2012 World Culinary Olympics in Erfurt, Germany.  Coached by Tobias MacDonald, VCC instructor and head chef at Ladner's La Belle Auberge, the group beat out teams from Nova Scotia, PEI and Quebec to win the competition to become Youth Team Canada at the Canadian Culinary Federation's national convention.  "This is an incredible achievement for the entire culinary arts department at VCC, and is yet another testament of their passion, skill and talent," says Jonathan Rouse, dean of VCC's school of hospitality. "I am so proud of our junior culinary team and know they will do extremely well representing Canada at the international level."  Read more.
 
Douglas College grad presents at major international conference
Douglas College Media Release, June 10, 2010
A Douglas College graduate is taking her field work on the intersection of modern and traditional medicine in Uganda to a major international conference in Hong Kong.  New Westminster's Kara Dooley graduated from the Community Social Service Worker (CSSW) Program last year. As part of the CSSW program's Uganda Project, Dooley completed a 10-week practicum in the east African country. There, Dooley worked with the national mental health program to explore ways of linking traditional healers who provide health care for people in villages and rural areas with the formal medical system.  This week, she'll present her findings in front of an audience of professionals, academics, practitioners, social planners, policy makers and advocates at the 2010 Joint World Conference on Social Work and Social Development.  CSSW instructor John Fox, who will co-present with Dooley, says it is rare for a diploma graduate to be accepted to present at a conference of this scale, which is attended by top researchers from around the world. Read more.
 
Vancouver Island labour shortage by 2014 says report: Provincial study predicts tighter job market
Times Colonist, June 9, 2010
With the effects of the financial crisis subsiding, Vancouver Island could be facing a labour shortage in four years, a government report suggests. A labour-market outlook for 2009 to 2019 released last week by Work B.C. -- affiliated with the Ministry of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development -- predicts a shortage of 1,710 workers in the Vancouver Island-Sunshine Coast region by 2014. The shortage is expected to worsen each year, reaching a deficit of 7,860 workers by 2019.  "Widespread tight labour-market conditions, with labour demand exceeding labour supply, are expected to re-emerge in the next five years for the Vancouver Island/Coast [region]," the report says.  The paper doesn't break down the job market by cities, but Lisa Tees, spokeswoman for the Ministry of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development, noted that Victoria is home to nearly half of all jobs in the region, and will thus have a strong influence on the results. Read more.
 
Canada's Chef of the Year calls VCC home
Vancouver Community College Media Release, June 10, 2010
It was with typical humility that John-Carlo Felicella, head of Vancouver Community College's culinary arts department, reacted to the honour of being selected by his peers around the country as Canadian Chef of the Year.  "It's nice to get the recognition for all the work you do for the industry but there are a lot of other people who do the same," he says. "If there were a thousand awards to be given that night, it still would not have been enough."  The night Felicella refers to occurred during the national convention of the Canadian Culinary Federation held in Windsor, Ont., earlier this month.  Jonathan Rouse, dean of VCC's school of hospitality, says he was literally speechless when Felicella was named as Chef of the Year. "This is such a brilliant achievement for JC," Rouse says. "I'm just so proud of his being recognized like this, as an industry leader."  Read more.
 
World-class speakers explore innovative architecture that improves environment
Okanagan College Media Release – June 9, 2010
Imagine a world where buildings don’t take from the environment, but give back to it.  Once found only in the world of science fiction, new innovations are emerging through the combination of technological developments, engineering and architectural design. The result is buildings that breathe, respond to the environment by automatically reducing consumption, and even create new energy sources.  “What we’re seeing now is that buildings can be resource positive, they can actually be alternative energy sources,” says Douglas MacLeod, Associate Dean, Science, Technology and Health at Okanagan College, which is hosting two of the most cutting edge designers in the brave new world of architecture.  The free public presentation – The Future of Architecture – takes place June 15 at the College’s Kelowna campus lecture theatre from 1 to 3:30 p.m. and features Canadian architect Philip Beesley and British living architect designer Dr. Rachel Armstrong.  Read more.
 
U-Pass program extended to all Metro Vancouver public post-secondary students
Vancouver Sun, June 9, 2010
The U-Pass transit discount will expand to cover all students in publicly funded post-secondary institutions, making B.C. the first Canadian province to offer such a program.  The announcement is also a victory for student groups that had long campaigned for an expanded program.  Premier Gordon Campbell made the announcement at Vancouver Community College Wednesday morning during a news conference with Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Shirley Bond and Peter Fassbender, chair of the Mayors’ Council on Regional Transportation.  “[Students] called for a universal U-Pass, a pass that would provide students with an opportunity to use transit in a way that was affordable,” Campbell said. “We said last year that we would work with students to make sure that we did that, and today I am proud to announce that we will be fulfilling that.”  Under U-Pass B.C., Metro Vancouver students will pay $30 per month for a system-wide pass, compared with $81 for a regular one-zone Fare card. The province will invest $20 million in the initiative from now until April 2013. Read more.
 
NIC Employee Receives National Honour
North Island College Media Release, June 7, 2010
Albert Balbon, North Island College’s Supervisor of Distributed Learning, was awarded the 2009-2010 Association of Canadian Community College’s (ACCC) Bronze Staff Excellence Award on Sunday, June 6th at the ACCC National Conference in Niagara Falls, Ontario. The ACCC's Staff Excellence Award recognizes individual staff members who have made an exceptional contribution within their institution and within the community it serves. It rewards employees who define excellence in their job performance, their influence, and ultimately their commitment to student learning. Kevin Walters, Director, Information Technology Services was instrumental in nominating Balbon for this award.  “The application process was extensive,” Walters remarks.  “But what struck me in putting it together were the testimonials from the staff, faculty and students Albert has worked with.  How many there were and how quickly people responded to our request for comments is the real testament of Albert’s impact and commitment to the college. It was truly amazing and really speaks to what he has accomplished here.” Read more.
 
VCC wins a gold, silver and bronze at ACCC awards
Vancouver Community College Media Release, June 7, 2010
They say good things come in threes.  This held true for Vancouver Community College when it won national recognition this weekend -- three times over -- with excellence awards from the Association of Canadian Community Colleges.  An employee has taken the gold for staff excellence; an innovative program to help vulnerable immigrants has taken silver; and a student won bronze for student leadership.  "We are delighted that Vancouver Community College has been recognized with national honours," says VCC president Kathy Kinloch, who was on hand at the awards presentations Sunday in Niagara Falls, Ont., and congratulated the VCC award recipients.  "VCC takes great pride in student engagement and innovative community partnerships. Validation of such initiatives through national recognition, such as that from the Association of Canadian Community Colleges, speaks to the expertise and commitment that VCC offers in partnership with others in the Vancouver community," she says.  Read more.
 
Flying with Fine Furniture
Camosun College Media Release, June 2, 2010
On Monday, May 31, the Victoria Airport Authority welcomed five new tables designed and constructed by students in Camosun’s Fine Furniture program. Travelers can appreciate the artistic functionality of the tables, finding one in the soft seating area adjacent to the Capital Brew Coffee Bar and the others in the Eagles Landing Observation Lounge.  This is the second time the airport has received custom-designed tables from the Fine Furniture program. In 2005, Victoria Airport Authority executive director Richard Pacquette attended a Fine Furniture end-of-year exhibition and was impressed with what he saw. He approached instructor Ken Guenter to ask if the program curriculum could incorporate a special project for the airport. Guenter happily accepted the challenge, and those first tables are still being used in the departures/check-in area. Because the public has responded so positively to the unique tables, Pacquette suggested a repeat of the project.  “One of the wonderful aspects of this project is that the students in the Fine Furniture program get a real life learning experience and we cannot thank the Victoria Airport Authority enough for giving us this opportunity,” says Ken Guenter. Read more.
 
College’s new studio program will appeal to those with a passion for woodworking
Okanagan College Media Release, Jun 2, 2010
Where are the lines between technical talent, craftsmanship and artistic undertaking when you’re working with wood? There isn’t a clear answer, but for those who want to explore where those lines blur, Okanagan College is introducing a new program – the first of its kind in B.C.’s interior.  Studio Woodworking, a 35-week program, begins this fall at Okanagan College, and encompasses a wide range of woodworking disciplines. While the program is not an apprenticeship, students completing the program will get credit for Cabinetmaking Level 1 from the province’s Industry Training Authority. That can be applied toward a Cabinetmaking Apprenticeship.  “This is a program for people who have a passion for woodwork,” explained instructor Tim Diebert, who boasts 30 years experience in the woodworking industry. His work includes custom guitar making, boat building, custom furniture, yacht interiors, millwork, movie sets, and staircases and balustrades. Read more.
 
NIC instructor makes waves on the cover of Westworld Magazine
North Island College Media Release, June 7, 2010
North Island College Instructor David Pinel’s passions for kayaking and marine wildlife are getting noticed.  He and West Coast Expeditions, the company he co-owns, are on the cover of the Westworld Magazine this summer, as part of a feature on the re-introduction of sea otters to Vancouver Island’s West Coast.  Pinel guided Comox Valley writer Andrew Findlay and local photographer and fellow NIC instructor Boomer Jerritt around Kyuquot Sound where the sometimes playful and always hungry sea otters are coming back after fur hunters decimated their populations 100 years ago.  Four decades after being re-introduced, about 3,200 sea otters now live in coastal B.C. waters and an estimated 1,200 of them make their home in Kyuquot Sound. “I found out that it was going to be the cover about a month and a half ago,” Pinel said. “It was a wonderful surprise and I’m very pleased with the story that Andrew weaves together.”  Read more.
 
LV Rogers student takes gold ... again!
Selkirk College Media Release, June 4, 2010
Brendin Zozman brought home a gold medal from the national Skills Canada Competition held in Waterloo, Ontario, from May 22-23. He took first place in the secondary school category for electrical wiring. In April Brendin also won the gold at the Skills Canada BC Competition in Abbotsford.  Brendin will be graduating from LV Rogers this year and is currently enrolled in the Transitions to Trades (Electrical) program at Selkirk College. Read more.
 
Teachers from Mexico participate in exchange with AHCOTE program
NLC Media Release, June 1, 2010
The Alaska Highway Consortium on Teacher Education (AHCOTE) program, based at the Fort St. John Campus of Northern Lights College, is participating in a teacher exchange program with two education institutions in Mexico.  The exchange program is offered in conjunction with Oaxaca State University “Benito Juárez” (UABJO) and Ollin Tlahtoalli: Centro de Lenguas y Cultura Mexicana. Both schools are located Oaxaca, Mexico.  The purpose of the exchange is to provide cultural and academic experiences for the students from Mexico. The program also enables the visiting students to share their culture with local students. They will be working in classrooms at Alwin Holland and Dr. Kearney schools during their stay in Fort St. John.  Along with their school visits the students have a very busy schedule visiting many of the area’s attractions. The students are staying with host families, helping the students become a part of the community.  On their first day in Canada, the students were met by a chilly spring snowfall. However, since this was the first time they experienced snow, they were quite excited. They spent part of their first day ice-skating for the first time. Read more.
 
VCC Dean of Hospitality and Business joining Okanagan School of Business
Okanagan Media Release, June 1, 2010
Jonathan Rouse, current Dean of the Vancouver Community College’s School of Hospitality and Business, is joining Okanagan College’s School of Business as a faculty member.  “I’m thrilled to be joining Okanagan College,” said Rouse, who has been Dean at VCC since 2006. He’s also worked at Capilano College (1993 to 2006) as part of the Faculty of Tourism and Outdoor Recreation Management.  “We’re excited Jonathan will be bringing his significant expertise and knowledge to our portfolio,” said Dr. Jayne Brooks, Dean of the School of Business. “We know our students will benefit from his breadth of experience and his involvement in the hospitality and tourism sector.” Read more.
 
NWCC Mining Program Wins Premier’s Award
Northwest Community College Media Release, June 1, 2010
BC’s Premier has joined the list of people to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of Northwest Community College’s School of Exploration & Mining (SEM). On May 26, Gordon Campbell declared SEM’s Reclamation and Prospecting Program (RAP) winner of the Partnership category of the 2009/2010 Premier’s Innovation and Excellence Awards.  “Tonight’s ceremony recognizes public service employees whose contributions and accomplishments benefit all British Columbians,” says Premier Campbell in a news release from the Office of the Premier. “These employees think big, have achieved exceptional results, and have made a positive difference not just in their communities but across the province.”  The Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources led the partnership behind SEM’s RAP program. The partnership included a strong federal presence from Human Resources and Skills Development Canada, the provincial Ministry of Agriculture and Lands and Ministry of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development, First Nations, SEM's industry partner Smithers Exploration Group, and companies such as Huckleberry Mines. Read more.
 
Brian Jungen receives Honorary Degree from NLC
NLC Media Release, June 1, 2010
Brian Jungen, one of the world’s most provocative and successful contemporary artists, has received an Honorary Associate of Arts Degree from Northern Lights College.  The Degree, in recognition of Jungen’s distinguished contributions to international art and culture, was conferred by Board of Governors chair Wendy Normandeau and NLC president Jean Valgardson during Convocation ceremonies on May 28 at the Stonebridge Hotel in Fort St. John.  Jungen has been acclaimed for producing evocative work that transforms ubiquitous consumer items into inventive sculptural forms, often linking his First Nations heritage to political and social issues. A major exhibition, Strange Comfort, organized by the National Museum of the American Indian, is currently on display until August in Washington, D.C.  Jungen was born in Fort St. John to a Canadian father and a Dunne-za mother. He is a member of the Doig River First Nation, and now lives and works in Vancouver.  Read more.
 
Support continues to pour in for Centre of Excellence
Okanagan College Media Release, June 1, 2010
One of B.C.’s pioneering companies in the trades field has put its support into the establishment of Penticton’s new Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation.  Andrew Sheret Limited, a B.C.-based 118-year-old plumbing and heating company, has donated $50,000 to create a dedicated classroom space for students entering the technologically challenging plumbing apprenticeship program.  “This demonstrates the industry is stepping up to support the Centre of Excellence,” said Steve Tuck, president of the Okanagan College Foundation. “Andrew Sheret Limited is a company that really recognizes the significance of this project and the training it will provide. That’s a strong endorsement.”  The president of Andrew Sheret Limited, Brian Findlay, says his company has benefitted over the years from the training and education provided to students who attended Okanagan College. The company’s donation to the new Andrew Sheret Plumbing Apprenticeship Classroom reflects that relationship.  "In order to meet the ever-increasing demand for qualified trades people, Okanagan College is building a strong reputation in providing the necessary training,” Findlay said. “We have been very impressed with the quality of the trades education and the training these men and women are receiving at Okanagan College.”  Read more.
 
Langara Nursing Program receives Outstanding Partnership Award
Langara College Media Release, June 1, 2010
The Langara Nursing Program received the 2010 Outstanding Partnership Award from the Canadian Diabetes Association on May 15, 2010 at the Vancouver Coastal Regional Annual Meeting.  This award is presented to a partner who has worked with and contributed significantly to a Canadian Diabetes program or initiative that has had an impact on people with diabetes at the regional level. The Langara Nursing Program has partnered with the Canadian Diabetes Association, Vancouver Coastal Region since January 2008 to assist the Association in leading the fight against diabetes.  “The Association and the Langara Student Nursing Program has accomplished excellence in the work of education, awareness, advocacy and community development,” said Ivanka Lupenec, Pacific Area Leader, Public Programs, Services and Education, Canadian Diabetes Association. “It is always a pleasure and an honour to work in this partnership with the College and its students, and to gain new ground in helping people with diabetes live healthy lives while we work to find a cure.” Read more.

 
In the News - May 2010

 
The Government of Canada Invests in the Jobs of Tomorrow - Today
Government invests in new research partnerships for colleges and communities
Marketwire, May 31, 2010
Twelve colleges will work with their communities and local businesses to get new innovations from campuses into the marketplace. These new partnerships will develop innovative environmentally-friendly technologies to reduce water contamination, advance emerging solar technologies and clean up heavy metals from residential and industrial soils. Speaking at St. Lawrence College today, the Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State (Science and Technology), announced funding for these and other projects. "Our government supports innovation because it creates jobs, improves the quality of life of Canadians and strengthens the economy," said Minister Goodyear. "We are supporting these projects in colleges across the country to strengthen the competitiveness of small and medium-sized businesses, and enable young Canadians to prepare for the jobs of tomorrow."  The twelve new projects announced today will receive a total of nearly $15 million under the College and Community Innovation (CCI) Program. Read more.
 
Better Access To Foreign Grads Helps B.C. Business
M2 Presswire, May 30,  2010
VANCOUVER Businesses will gain improved access to highly skilled, in-demand foreign graduate students with a new expansion to B.C.s Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) announced Moira Stilwell, Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development today at Langara Colleges newly renovated International Education office. These highly skilled graduates are vital to helping our province succeed in a world where knowledge is the most important currency, said Stilwell. With over 950,000 job openings anticipated by 2020, attracting international post-secondary students is one way we can meet the future needs of B.C. business for well trained, highly educated employees. Read more.
 
Province Proclaims May 27 "Four Host Nations Day"
Office of the Premier B.C. Media Release, May 27, 2010
Premier Gordon Campbell and Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation George Abbott have proclaimed May 27 as Four Host First Nations Day in recognition of the achievements of the Four Host First Nations as hosts of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games. May 27 marks the 2,010th day since the Four Host First Nations Society was created.  “The concept of the Four Host First Nations is unique in the history of the Olympic movement,” said Premier Campbell. “I congratulate everyone involved in this innovative and collaborative process. Their contributions, ongoing support and enthusiastic participation were vital to the success of the 2010 Winter Games on the global stage.”  “I congratulate the Four Host First Nations – Lil’wat, Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh – for embracing this unique opportunity and showcasing the arts, business and culture of their nations and Aboriginal communities across the country during the Games,” said Abbott. “At the 2010 Aboriginal Pavilion, the Four Host First Nations showed visitors from around the world why Aboriginal culture is an important part of our province’s past, present and future.” Read more.
 
College Instructor speaks to UN World Congress
College of the Rockies Media Release, May 26, 2010
Brian Bell, Coordinator of the Mountain Adventure Skills Training program at the College of the Rockies’ Fernie Campus, recently spoke at the 6th World Congress World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in the Principality of Andorra, Ordino in April. The theme of the conference was: Reinventing snow and mountain tourism to attract new clients.  Brian Bell is a College of the Rockies Instructor at the Fernie Campus for the Mountain Adventure Skills Training program.  Bell received the invitation out of the blue from Peter Keller, one of the organizers of the conference: "The UNWTO and its new Secretary General, Mr. Taleb Rifai ,would be very glad if you or a person in which you trust could present the case of your MAST program...which is unique, and then give your experience on snow and mountain tourism ."

The Mountain Adventure Skills Training program at COTR's Fernie Campus is an intensive nine-month program that offers training and instruction in a wide range of technical outdoor adventure activities. It is led by professional guides through a progressive, hands-on approach and also incorporates business skills as well as the leadership and risk management aspects of the adventure tourism industry. Read more.
Vancouver Island Institutions Sign Collaborative Agreement
Camosun, NIC Media Releases, May 25, 2010
Camosun College, North Island College, Royal Roads University, the University of Victoria, and Vancouver Island University signed a memorandum of understanding today intended to foster collaboration related to the post-secondary education and training needs of Vancouver Island and the BC Coastal Region as a whole.  The purpose of the agreement is to provide a broader range of learning opportunities and supports to residents and communities of Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands and the BC Coastal region through the development of an integrated and synergistic educational strategy.  Read more.
 
Welder Chics are red hot - Woman-run welding firm offers courses
Times Colonist,  May 22, 2010
What could be cooler than melting metal every day?
Not much, says Heather Greenway, one of a handful of women making a living in the welding trade in British Columbia.  Greenway briefly got the welding bug during a metals class in Grade 8, but it took several years and a stint studying social work in university to realize that fusing steel was her true calling.
"It's really rewarding to see something you've built," says Greenway, 26, who's hatched a new partnership with Theresa Siochowicz -- otherwise known as Welder Chic -- to form one of the province's only welding companies run by women.  Siochowicz, a Red Seal journeyman, started Welder Chic five years ago as a solo operation.  She gained a solid reputation making custom pieces ranging from iron gates and railings to vehicle and bakery racks and uses Rosie the Riveter -- the arm-flexing heroine who rallied women into the trades as men went off to fight the Second World War -- for her branding and inspiration in a career dominated by men.  Expanding the business made the partnership with Greenway a good fit, said Siochowicz, 35.  Greenway, who completed her welding courses at Camosun College, was a stainless steel specialist for Pacific Mechanical for four years and then went to work for the B.C. Construction Association's incentive programs to bring more youth, including women, into the trades. Read more.
 
College receives funding for international internship program
Kootenay News Advertiser, May 21, 2010
Amidst the clutter and noise of building expansion, the College of the Rockies (COTR) played host to a funding announcement by Kootenay Columbia MP Jim Abbott. Abbott, who is also the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of International Co-operation, announced that COTR will receive $1.23 million in funding to support youth internships in Africa and the Americas and vocational training in Africa.

"The College of the Rockies has a proven track record in implementing international development projects," said Abbott. "There is an undeniable dynamic at the College of the Rockies, and I am proud to announce that the Canadian Government will partner with a globally-engaged community college that provides training to workers, and that offers young Canadians an opportunity to share their knowledge as they carry outwork in developing countries." Read more.
Students give CNC an A in survey
College of New Caledonia Media Release, May 19, 2010
CNC exceeds the provincial average in 19 out of 20 indicators when it comes to students’ satisfaction with their programs and skill development, according to survey results from the provincial government published on Macleans.ca.  Students also ranked CNC above the provincial average in overall satisfaction with studies and their main reason for enrolment being met, states the annual B.C. Diploma, Associate Degree, and Certificate Student Outcomes (DACSO) Survey.  “Meeting students’ needs is the reason we’re here, so it’s very gratifying that they have ranked us so high, again,” said Randall Heidt, CNC communications manager. “The only area where we were below the provincial average was computer use, but when you take program mix into consideration it turns out we are actually above the provincial average, according to our students.”  CNC exceeded the provincial average in the “Overall Satisfaction” category of main reason for enrolling met, scoring 3.36 out of 4, compared to the provincial average of 3.31; The college also scored 3.40 out of 4 for overall satisfaction with studies, compared to 3.34 provincially. Read more.
 
CFNR broadcasts live from NWCC mining camp
Northwest Community College Media Release, May 18, 2010
On Friday, May 21, between 11 am and 2 pm, CFNR Classic Rock Radio will broadcast live from one of Northwest Community College’s School of Exploration & Mining camps.  Tune in to hear students at Ganokwa camp near Smithers talk about their training experiences and how it is helping them find jobs. Learn about mining programs being offered this summer including the Environmental Monitor Assistant Program (EMAP) and the Minerals Field Exploration Assistant (MEFA) course.  In response to the training needs of communities and industry, Northwest Community College has developed the School of Exploration & Mining (SEM). In partnership with Smithers Exploration Group and the Province of BC, the School develops industry-related courses and programs and offers training in various areas of mining and exploration. Read more.
 
Canada Must Put More Money Toward Education: Study
The Gazette, May 17, 2010
Post-secondary institutions need more money and better planning to meet the many pressures upon them, which include producing a more skilled workforce to keep Canada competitive in the global economy, according to a report from TD Economics.  The wide-ranging report, released Monday, discusses the challenges that lay ahead for post-secondary schools, and the barriers, financial and otherwise, for students to access them. Don Drummond, an economic adviser for TD and one of the report's authors, says "now is not the time for complacency."  "The federal and provincial governments have corrected a lot of the difficulties that got created by the severe budget cutbacks to post-secondary education in the 1990s. But for every step forward they've made in terms of improvements, I think our expectations of what the sector is going to accomplish have been raised up even further," he said.  Demographics are pushing up the demand for spots in colleges and universities and some provincial governments are aiming to increase enrolment even further, said Drummond, who thinks they haven't done enough planning to meet that objective.  Read more.
More than $43,000 in awards and prizes were presented to Camosun’s outstanding trades and technology students at the 2010 School of Trades and Technology Awards Ceremony, Friday, May 14.  Eighty-seven awards were handed out to recognize the exceptional achievements of this year’s trades and technology students. The prizes of cash and tools were generously donated by over 70 local sponsors and companies through the Camosun Foundation.  Congratulations to all the Award Recipients for working so hard to make the most of your education and thank you to all of our donors for your support!  Read more.
 
LV Rogers student shines at Skills Canada BC Competition
Selkirk College Media Release, May 17, 2010
Brendin Zozman shone brightly at the Skills Canada BC competition in Abbotsford, bringing home the gold in the secondary school category for electrical wiring. He now qualifies to advance to the Canadian Skills Competition and represent the province at a national level.  Zozman is currently enrolled in the Transitions to Trades (Electrical) program offered through Selkirk College, which is part of the Accelerated Credit Enrolment in Industry Training program (ACE-IT). Through ACE-IT, students interested in pursuing a career in a trade can earn post-secondary credits in that trade before they complete high school, without the full cost of tuition fees.  ACE-IT Coordinator, Larry Veregin, hopes that Zozman’s win will benefit all students in the district. “Brendin is a very motivated and focused person,” he said. “ACE-IT provides opportunities for students like Brendin, who know what they want to do and are driven to make a head start in their careers. I hope Brendin’s success will inspire other students to join the program.”  Read more.
 
College of the Rockies celebrates 35th Anniversary
College of the Rockies Media Release, May 17, 2010
Incorporated on May 8, 1975, College of the Rockies is celebrating its 35th year of providing post-secondary education to the East Kootenay region this year.  In its 35th Anniversary year, the College of the Rockies Cranbrook Main Campus is undergoing major interior renovations and construction of the new entrance and student services area pictured here in this architect’s rendering.  Forty years ago James Patterson, a hard rock miner in the Sullivan mine in Kimberley, BC and member of the local School Board, realized the need for apprenticeship training in the East Kootenay region of BC. In 1971 he approached the government in Victoria and, along with other interested parties, initiated the process of establishing a vocational school in the East Kootenay.  By 1973 the newly-formed East Kootenay Vocational School Committee, mayors of all East Kootenay communities and district school boards met and requested representation on the McTaggart-Cowan Commission, a government body formed to study the need for post-secondary education in various areas of BC. Patterson and Ray Hughes of Fernie were appointed as representatives of the region. Read more.
 
SIFE Okanagan exits nationals with more hardware than any other team in the nation
Okanagan Media Release, May 14, 2010
The competition was fierce, the presentations nearly flawless, and after two intense days at the SIFE National challenge in Calgary, Okanagan College is bringing home seven national awards – more than any of the other 53 teams in attendance. Okanagan College’s Green Team won first place in the country after presenting to a panel of industry experts on a variety of community-minded sustainable projects that included partnerships with the Kelowna and Vernon Chamber of Commerce and Glenmore Elementary. The efforts of Kelowna’s Sattu Dhaliwal, Kevin Slater and Braydon Ouellet and Vernon team members Graham Moir and Megan Annand solidified the reputation of the fledgling team from Okanagan College as one of Canada’s top performing business institutions. Green Team captain Sattu Dhaliwal said the win is a direct reflection of the support Okanagan College business students receive from their school and their communities. Read more.
 
Record-breaking summer enrolment at Langara College
Langara College Media Release, May 11, 2010
Langara College welcomes more than 4,800 students in May, breaking summer enrolment records. This is the fourth consecutive year that enrolment has grown for the summer semester.  Returning student numbers have significantly increased by over 8% and enrolment in university programming is up again by nearly 6% over enrolment in the summer term of 2009. Langara has now reached record enrolment for four consecutive semesters.  “Langara College offers a full service summer semester, with a particularly wide range of courses in Arts & Science and Business. This makes us a very popular option for students who want to accelerate their progress by studying in the summer,” said Dr. Martin Gerson, Vice-President Academic and Provost. “Applications for September are also very strong, so we are preparing for our 5th consecutive semester of record enrolment.”   Read more.
 
Global curiosity, interest in policy leads Okanagan College Arts student to Ottawa
Okanagan College Media Release, May 11, 2010
22-year-old Okanagan College Arts student Matt Hall has turned an interest in politics and policy into a rare opportunity on the national stage.  Hall will join 99 other young Canadians from across the nation in Ottawa from May 15 to 19 as part of the National Youth Ambassador Caucus.  The Caucus is being hosted by the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade and Western Economic Diversification Canada.  At the Caucus the youth ambassadors will meet with Prime Minister Stephen Harper, and other government, business and community leaders.  While in Ottawa, the students will put their negotiation and leadership skills to the test, as only 26 youth Ambassadors (two from each province and territory) will be selected to participate in the Summits in June 2010. Read more.

Residential Construction students complete house in Pouce Coupe
Northern Lights College Media Release, May 11, 2010
Students in the Residential Construction program at Northern Lights College celebrated the completion of the 2009-10 “NLC House” in Pouce Coupe with an open house on April 23.  The construction of a house comprises the practical portion of the advanced Carpentry Foundation trades and apprenticeship program based at NLC’s Dawson Creek Campus.  This year’s class of 13 students was overseen by instructor Mark Heartt. The class planned and built a 1,300 square foot bungalow, plus two-car garage.  The latest NLC House, the first one built in Pouce Coupe, is located in a new subdivision on Railway Avenue. Over the past decade, Residential Construction students have built five houses in Dawson Creek, as well as two houses and the new airport terminal in Chetwynd.  “We can’t thank the Village of Pouce Coupe enough for working with the College on this project. It was a big help to the College for the Village to donate this lot,” Heartt said. “This was a big project for our students, and this is a very marketable house. I hope we’ve set the standard for this new subdivision.”  Read more.
 
Harwin elementary students all smiles at CNC dental clinics
College of New Caledonia Media Release, May 10, 2010
CNC’s dental students are giving back to the community by putting brighter smiles on children’s faces.   Through the 10th annual Seal with a Smile program, CNC’s dental clinic is offering four weeks of free clinics (May 11 – June 1) for 200 Harwin elementary students, providing prophys, fluorides and sealants. Tuesdays and Thursdays, kindergarten to Grade 7 students are bused to the Prince George campus, where they will have their teeth cleaned and some may need to return if they need sealants. “It’s a chance for our dental assisting students to work with children within those age groups and to place sealants,” said CNC dental assistant instructor Georgina Jones. “We rely on sponsors to provide donations of sundries and supplies. Without them, this wouldn’t happen.” Read more.

 

Waap Galts’ap a hit with big crowd at official opening
Northwest Community College Media Release, May 08, 2010
Hundreds came out today to Northwest Community College’s (NWCC) Terrace campus to witness the historic and long anticipated opening of Waap Galts’ap, the spectacular longhouse that is the first of its kind to be built on a Canadian college campus.  To commemorate the event, NWCC invited the public, chiefs, matriarchs, elders and special guests and dignitaries to an afternoon of celebration that kicked off with the ceremonial raising of two nine-foot totem poles carved by graduates of NWCC’s Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art.

Following an explanation of the poles, the doors to Waap Galts’ap — Tsimshian for “community house” — were opened with Irene Seguin (Hagwillook'am Saxwhl Giis), Chair of the NWCC Board of Governors, along with dignitaries and representatives from the Kitsumkalum and Kitselas Bands The building was then blessed by Kitsumkalum Matriarch, Mildred Roberts. Read more.
 
Camosun student becomes first international executive officer on student business club executive
Camosun Media Release, May 7, 2010
History was made last month at the 2010 Delta Epsilon Chi International Career Development Conference in Louisville, Kentucky. Camosun College business student, Conor Pommerville, was elected to the DEC executive team as a vice-president at the April 17-21 conference. Pommerville, a Camosun Business School student, is the first international officer since the organization’s inception 50 years ago in the United States.

More than 14,000 students from 230 college campuses across North America participate in Delta Epsilon Chi (DEC) which enhances student learning by providing recognition and leadership activities. Community colleges, technical colleges, four–year colleges and universities from Canada, the U.S., Puerto Rico, Germany, China, Guam and Mexico belong to DEC. Read more.
 
Medal count at seven as College brings home hardware from Skills competition
Okanagan College Media Release, May 6, 2010
In a collective show of trades and technology expertise, seven Okanagan College students earned medals at the Skills Canada BC provincial competition held in Abbotsford in late April. Okanagan College won a gold medal in carpentry, three silver medals in the fields of Automotive Service, Welding and IT PC Network Support, and three bronze medals in: Automotive Service, Automotive Collision Repair and IT PC Network Support.  Despite an hour-long power outage that left drills, saws and PCs shut down, Okanagan College competitors were able to demonstrate their practical knowledge and skills in their chosen fields. Okanagan College’s Devon Hamilton dominated the carpentry challenge, winning a gold medal and qualifying for the national competition.  “Devon’s careful planning and execution set him apart from the competition,” said coach and instructor Tim Dorn. “While others started building their structures immediately, Devon put careful thought into the project then began cutting all of his pieces. Once he was finished cutting it was just a matter of assembling his project, which was performed extremely well.” Read more.
 
Douglas College grad wins national editing scholarship
Douglas College Media Release, May 5, 2010
A passion for punctuation and wizardry with words has helped a Douglas College graduate land a new national scholarship.  Helen Clay, a 2010 graduate of the Print Futures: Professional Writing program at Douglas College, is the recipient of the Editors' Association of Canada's (EAC) inaugural Claudette Upton Scholarship. The $1,000 prize supports continuing professional development in editing.  "Writing and editing is something I've enjoyed doing ever since I was wee," said Clay. "I love words and language and a well-punctuated sentence. There's a wit and elegance in good writing and a well-written piece can convey much more than just what the words are saying."  The U.K.-born New Westminster resident credits the Print Futures program with honing her passion for writing and language and giving her a leg up in the world of professional writing. Read more.
 
Construction begins on the Technical Education Centre at CNC’s 
College of New Caledonia, May 5, 2010
The project was awarded this week to a local company, IDL Projects Inc. “It’s very exciting to finally have the equipment on site and construction about to begin,”  said CNC President John Bowman. “We are also happy that a Prince George company was the successful bidder and we look forward to working with them to create this impressive building.” Mobilization of equipment and site preparation began this morning, with demolition of some small out buildings and some asphalt removal scheduled for this week. Substantial completion of the project is scheduled for March 31, 2011.  The project is funded by the Knowledge Infrastructure Program, which the Government of Canada launched as part of its Economic Action Plan. CNC will receive almost $30 million from the federal and provincial governments to construct new buildings at its campuses in Prince George and Quesnel. Read more.
 
Selkirk College announces recipients of Board awards
Selkirk Media Release, May 5, 2010
The Selkirk College Board of Governors is pleased to announce the 2010 recipients of the annual Board awards.  An Honorary Diploma in Peace Studies was awarded to Muriel Walton. The Distinguished Educator Award was presented to David Williams; and the first ever Distinguished Alumnus Award went to Ron Anderson. Each of these individuals has made significant contributions to the college and to society over the years. Read more.
 
New VP Strategic Development announced
Camosun College Media Release, May 4, 2010
Dr. Tom Roemer will become Camosun College’s new Vice President, Strategic Development effective June 1, 2010. “Tom was selected from an impressive field of candidates following a nation-wide search process that attracted much interest,” says Camosun President Kathryn Laurin. “He is entrepreneurial, a team builder and brings enormous energy, talent and creativity to all he does and I’m really looking forward to working with him in this new capacity.”

The position will be an important one for the College, focused on strengthening and growing industry connections, increasing partnerships of all types and creating or growing revenue-generating opportunities related to its business, says Laurin. “As one of the country’s premier colleges, we are continually seeking ways to better serve our community and I believe, under Tom’s leadership, we will be contributing in new and important ways,” she concluded. Read more.
 
Langara College announces new Board member appointment
Langara College Media Release, May 4, 2010
David Chiang, Chair of the Langara College Board of Governors, is pleased to announce the appointment of Zdenka Buric to the College Board by the Lieutenant Governor in Council effective immediately for an initial term to July 31, 2011.  Buric is Managing Partner of the Vancouver and Victoria offices of NATIONAL Public Relations.  With more than 20 years experience in communications,  she provides senior counsel to leading companies and organizations in many areas including crisis communications, issues management, labour relations and media relations. Read more.
 

In the News - April 2010

Langara College Signs National Sustainability Protocol
Langara College Media Release, April 30, 2010
Langara College has adopted the Association of Canadian Community College’s (ACCC) Pan-Canadian Protocol for Sustainability. To formalize the commitment to sustainable practices, Langara College President David Ross was joined by ACCC President James Knight to sign the protocol. Langara is among 48 other colleges across Canada to sign the agreement.  Under this agreement, Langara College commits to providing leadership to both internal and external communities and integrating sustainable operations and environmental stewardship in its delivery of outstanding education. Read more.
 
NLC announces 2010-11 budget decisions
Northern Lights College Media Release, April 30, 2010
A decrease in revenue projections has resulted in Northern Lights College having to make difficult decisions in order to balance its 2010-11 budget.  In making its budget decisions, the College’s Administration Committee – which oversees the budget process – was faced with projected revenues approximately $2.5 million lower than the original 2009-10 operating budget, and $1 million lower than the 2009-10 final actual budget.  “The recession has had an impact on Northern Lights College,” said President Jean Valgardson. “We have seen a reduction in projected revenues from a number of our of traditional sources of funding, and this has resulted in the College having to take a hard look at the entirety of its operation.” Read more.
 
NLC and Canadian GeoExchange Coalition announce MOU
Northern Lights College Media Release, April 29, 2010
The Canadian GeoExchange Coalition (CGC) is pleased to announce a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Northern Lights College (NLC) in Dawson Creek, BC.  As a result of this MOU, NLC will incorporate CGC’s curriculum into its Renewable Energy Technologies Program, which is part of the College’s Workforce Training Department.  After completion of their college course and a passing grade on the CGC exams, graduates from NLC will be able to apply for their CGC accreditation as installers and designers under the CGC Global Quality GeoExchange™ Program. To date, more than 1,200 individuals in Canada have obtained their CGC accreditations and are actively involved in the GeoExchange industry. Read more.
 
Waap Galts’ap opening ceremony countdown is on
Northwest Community College Media Release, April 29, 2010
In just over a week, Northwest Community College (NWCC) will celebrate the opening of Waap Galts’ap, a spectacular longhouse that’s being built on the College’s Terrace campus.  Not only is Waap Galts’ap—Tsimshian for “community house”—a first for the city of Terrace and NWCC, it is also the first longhouse to be built at a Canadian community college. Sanctioned by representatives of the Tsimshian leaders of the Kitsumkalum and Kitselas Bands and NWCC's First Nations Council, the longhouse will be a very special gathering place for student, college and public ceremonies, functions and celebrations.

The entire building has been designed as a showcase for the magnificent First Nations Art and culture of the Northwest, featuring art generated by masters like Freda Diesing, Stan Bevan, and Ken McNeil, as well as emerging artists of the Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art. Architecturally beautiful, it is a testament to the traditional culture and knowledge of the Tsimshian people and to a growing array of construction programming developing at Northwest Community College. Read more.
 
Studio 58’s Kathryn Shaw wins Teaching Award
Langara College Media Release, April 27, 2010
Kathryn Shaw, Artistic Director of Studio 58 at Langara College, is the recipient of the 2009-2010 Association of Canadian Community Colleges (ACCC) Bronze Teaching Excellence Award.  While this prestigious recognition took Shaw by surprise, it was unanimous among students and colleagues that it was well-deserved. Shaw’s tenacious commitment to world-class training and her gift for training student actors to become artistically-and technically-seasoned professionals has earned her a prominent reputation in the theatre community. Read more.
 
YES 2 IT Targets Trades
College of the Rockies Media Release, April 27, 2010
Ninety Grade 9 students from 10 different schools from Golden to Creston to Elkford will converge on the College of the Rockies in Cranbrook to participate in a project called YES 2 IT (Youth Exploring Skills to Industry Training). Half will take part on May 11 and the other half on May 12.  Last year's YES 2 IT participants were tutored by College of the Rockies Instructors and student apprentices in the COTR Trades' shops. Project Coordinator Brian Conrad says that the project is "designed to increase awareness of skilled trades among younger students as well as their parents, educators, and communities. It provides an excellent opportunity for these students to enjoy a hands-on experience in a trades-focused environment and to learn that apprenticeship in the trades is a sound career choice option."  Four trades will be highlighted -- Electrical, Welding, Carpentry and Heavy Duty/ Auto Service Mechanics. There the students will engage in hands-on projects under the supervision of College instructors and student apprentices. The day will end with a skills competition with prizes and a barbeque at the College. And the students get to take their completed projects home. Read more.
 
New program aims to keep ESL teaching careers on course
Douglas College Media Release, April 26, 2010
"Crash and burn" is the outcome for many novices looking to fund a travel experience by teaching English abroad.  But a new program from Douglas College is designed to change that. The Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) Citation delivers the practical knowledge and hands-on experience needed to succeed at teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language abroad, or locally.  A lack of practical teaching skills, combined with living in a country where one may not know the language or the culture, can be a recipe for disaster for prospective English teachers, according to Douglas College TESL program coordinator Janice Penner.  "It's stressful to teach English without the education to back you up. I have seen people crash and burn," says Penner, who has taught English in Japan, Taiwan and China. Read more.
 
NLC granted EQA certification
Northern Lights College Media Release, April 26, 201
Northern Lights College has been granted Education Quality Assurance (EQA) certification by the Province’s Ministry of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development.  EQA designation is British Columbia’s new brand for quality post-secondary education that was unveiled in November 2009. It is a voluntary quality assurance designation available to eligible B.C. public and private post-secondary institutions.  EQA promotes high-quality, reputable post-secondary institutions, and allows students from outside Canada to determine which institutions meet government-recognized quality assurance standards. Read more.
 
College business students golden at California competition
Okanagan College Media Release, April 23, 2010
A global recession and stock market crash were just two of the obstacles overcome by a team of Okanagan College business students to earn the honours of Top Company and Top Report at the 46th annual International Collegiate Business Strategy Competition in California last week.  The business simulation competition charges teams of post-secondary students from across North America with the challenge of creating a business product or service and then beginning with a share price of one dollar, the teams run their businesses, making decisions for the company over 20 quarters in a two-and-a-half month time period, which represents five years in the real world. Ryan Rotariu, Asia Snook, Kim McIntyre and Michelle Plamondon ran their business, Taboo Apparel, more effectively than any other team, including top performers from the University of San Diego, San Jose State University and California State University - Long Beach.  Read more.
 
Selkirk College Forestry Graduates Receive Recognition
Selkirk College Media Release, April 23, 2010
The 2010 graduates from the Selkirk College Forest Technology program received their Silver Rings from the Canadian Institute of Forestry (CIF) at a ceremony held at the Castlegar campus in early April.  The CIF, which is the only national organization of forest practitioners in Canada, offers the Silver Ring as a welcome to the profession of forestry and is a symbol of achievement in having completed a recognized forestry program. The rings are marked with a leaf, symbolic of forest ecosystems and their inherent values.  “The Silver Ring Ceremony is one of the obvious highlights for the students and for myself as an instructor,” says Renewable Resources faculty member, Carol Andrews. “It marks the successful completion of the program and serves as a constant, friendly reminder of what the students have learned and what they should take with them as they move into the professional world.” Read more.
 
CNC to offer mining technology program
College of New Caledonia Media Release, April 22, 2010
CNC signed an MOU with several partners Thursday that will bring mining technology training to northern B.C.    The memorandum of understanding between CNC, BCIT, Northwest Community College, Northern Lights College and School District 91 will provide for a collaborative delivery of the first year of BCIT's Mining Technology Diploma. The program will be accomplished through online delivery of the first year at CNC; learners will complete the second year by attending classes at BCIT.    "We are very excited to be able to provide the training and skills required in this growing industry," said CNC president John Bowman. "Part of what makes CNC so successful, is our ability to partner with other public institutions and industry."  Read more.
 
VCC walks away from Skills B.C. competition with 15 medals
Vancouver Community College Media Release, April 23, 2010
Vancouver Community College students showed what they are made of Wednesday at the provincial Skills Canada competition, winning an impressive total of 15 medals.  VCC's automotive collision repair and hair design programs fared particularly well, with five medals each. Sandra Bailey, dean of the school of transportation trades, said, "VCC students had an amazing competition that really showcased their talents and hard work. It is also important to acknowledge the great commitment and expertise of the faculty and staff who prepared the students for the competition as well as being the hosts for their respective events."  Read more.
 
South Okanagan learning partnership signed
Okanagan College Media Release, April 22, 2010
A new partnership in the South Okanagan between School District 67, Greyback Construction, the Penticton Indian Band and Okanagan College will bring training opportunities for students and new facilities for the Penticton Indian Band.  The 2010 Home for Learning project will see 12 students in the College’s Residential Construction program work under the supervision of Greyback Construction and an Okanagan College instructor to build an office structure in conjunction with Westhills’ Aggregates.  School District 67 will work in support of one of its students who will take the dual-credit program while completing Secondary School graduation requirements.  Representatives from each of the partners met in early April to sign a Memorandum of Understanding.  Read more.
 
Selkirk Students Profit from Business Competition
Selkirk College Media Release, April 21, 2010
First and second year students from the Business Administration program at Selkirk College experienced real-life business pressures and friendly rivalry at the fifth annual Business Competition in Castlegar earlier this month.  The Competition was held as an event that brought students and the general public together, while students competed for the best marketing campaign and the best business case scenario.  Students were given three weeks of class time to prepare for the event. Working in teams of 4-6 individuals and using visual aids with various media, first year students publicly presented a marketing campaign for “The Great Outdoors in the Kootenays” in front of a panel of judges at the Castlegar Campus. Simultaneously, second year teams of students went through a business case scenario that focused on consulting for a nightclub. They also presented and defended their business strategies before a second panel of industry judges.  Read more.
 
New funding opens up for Douglas College researchers
Douglas College Media Release, April 20, 2010
Humanities and social science research at Douglas College is getting a boost with the announcement that the college is now eligible to administer research funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC).  SSHRC is the federal agency that promotes and supports research and training in the humanities and social sciences. As a SSHRC-eligible institution, Douglas College researchers can apply for a share of the more than $300 million in grants and scholarships distributed annually by SSHRC. "SSHRC eligibility is an important milestone for Douglas College," said Jan Carrie, Acting Vice President of Education. "It's a testament to the strength of our faculty and will help develop Douglas College as a centre for social science and humanities research."  "This is good news for faculty and students," said Dr. Kathy Denton, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences. "The ability to access SSHRC funding will enable us to continue to attract and retain the best instructors and program personnel. And our students will benefit from greater opportunities to work with faculty on research projects and learn about research outcomes in their courses."  Read more.
 
B.C. faces shortage of 160,000 workers - Conference told industry needs co-operation among all factions
Times Colonist, April 20, 2010
Industry leaders, unions and elected officials need to work together to tackle B.C.'s looming shortage in skilled trades, a major developer told a Victoria conference yesterday. "We have a serious problem in front of us in terms of training the skilled workers that we need to continue to support the development of our province and economy, and to support companies like Concert Properties in its efforts," said David Podmore, CEO of Vancouver-based Concert Properties Ltd. The B.C. Federation of Labour hosted Moving Forward: Apprenticeships in the New Economy 2010 in Victoria. Employers, unions, government, colleges and economists took part, aiming to develop recommendations to improve B.C.'s apprenticeship system and increase involvement. The province is facing a shortage of 160,000 skilled workers over the next five years, the conference heard.  Read more.
 
VCC program wins Disability Resource Network award
Vancouver Community College Media Release, April 19, 2010
Vancouver Community College's program for deaf and hard of hearing adults has been recognized by the Disability Resource Network for its outstanding contribution to education for students with disabilities. "The instructors and staff in the program deserve this award because they are a hard-working, innovative and unique group of people," said program head Shannon Hougham. "I am very proud to be part of this team."The VCC program consists of full-time and part-time studies in basic English language skills and in job-readiness.  Read more.
 
VCC's new president, Kathy Kinloch, nominated for Women of Distinction Award
Vancouver Community College Media Release, April 19, 2010
VCC's recently appointed president, Kathy Kinloch, has been nominated for a prestigious YWCA Women of Distinction Award in recognition of her longtime leadership and commitment in the public sector.  "To be recognized by colleagues is truly an honour, and I'm excited to be in the company of such a talented group of nominees," says Kinloch, whose career has included senior leadership positions in B.C.'s post-secondary, government and health sectors.  "I have been fortunate to be supported by many incredible leaders along the way, and with whom I share this recognition," she says.  Read more.
 
Dialogue takes new meaning at Challenging the Paradigm 2010
Northwest Community College Media Release, April 15, 2010
This year, Northwest Community College’s (NWCC) Challenging the Paradigm Summer Gathering will offer a new process of learning through the hosting of a dialogue moderated by Leroy Little Bear, the veteran Blackfoot, Kainai educator and renowned academic. Also moderating will be Amethyst First Rider, a Blackfoot scholar in Fine Arts with a focus on indigenous theatre.  A Dialogue Exploring the Nature of Higher Education from Indigenous and Western Perspectives will feature an inner circle of participants gathered to discuss a topic, while other Gathering attendees will be invited to observe all or parts of the event. The Dialogue is based on the writings of the late David Bohm, famed colleague of Einstein’s, and Leroy Little Bear, a Professor Emeritus at the University of Lethbridge and a previous Challenging the Paradigm keynote speaker. This year, he and Amethyst First Rider will fill
the role of Elder Advisors for the Gathering. Read more.
 
Camosun Business students win national stock market competition
Camosun College Media Release, April 15, 2010
Camosun College’s business students were awarded top marks April 12 after applying remarkable financial literacy, financial analysis and accounting skills to a provincial and national stock market competition.Camosun placed first overall in the InvestYoung Western Canada Online Stock Market Competition, and then went on to place second overall in the InvestYoung Nationals. The University of Western Ontario took first place in the national competition. The stock market competition is organized by the non-profit Investors of Tomorrow.  The InvestYoung Western Canada Online Stock Market Competition is a province-wide contest open to British Columbia universities and colleges with commerce and business programs. Teams put their finance and accounting skills to the test while managing one million dollars in hypothetical capital over six months. To win, the teams must outperform the S&P 500 index during the challenge period. Camosun not only beat the index, they went on to make a profit.  Read more.
Selkirk College Ensures University Transfer of Courses
Selkirk College Media Release, April 15, 2010
Selkirk College will be hosting the articulation committee meetings of the British Columbia Council on Admissions and Transfers (BCCAT) to ensure smooth transferability of courses to degree-granting institutions.  At the end of April, faculty members from Selkirk College’s School of University Arts & Sciences will be chairing three of the annual provincial events along with representatives from all other BC post-secondary institutions. "Transferability is something we take very seriously,” explains college faculty member and chair of BCCAT’s English Articulation Committee, Linda King-Harwood. “Every post-secondary institution in BC sends its department head or surrogate to these meetings, and we work together to make sure courses you take at Selkirk are accepted at other colleges and universities and vice versa.”  Read more.
 
Douglas College has been awarded a $200,000 grant to study the biological control of insect pests in B.C. vegetable greenhouses.
Douglas College Media Release, April 13, 2010
The award was made by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), under its College and Community Innovation Program.The grant will support a two-year research project on the use of predators and parasitoids for the management of insect pests that cause annual crop losses in BC's tomato, pepper and cucumber greenhouses. The researchers hope to develop one or more new biological control products as well as to optimize the use of existing products for aphid and psyllid management. They will also develop molecular-biology tools for aphid parasitoid identification which could be used to facilitate research and practice of biological control in greenhouses.  Douglas College's partners in the research are: the BC Greenhouse Growers' Association, Applied Bio-nomics Ltd, the Bug Factory Ltd., Koppert Canada Biological Systems, and Kwantlen Polytechnic University, whose new insect biocontrol laboratory will be the site of much of the work. Read more.
 
Local high school students ace Skills Canada competition
Comox Valley Echo, April 13, 2010
Seven Comox Valley high school students are on their way to the B.C. Skills Canada Competition in Abbotsford this month, thanks to their gold-medal performance in Campbell River.  The Skills Canada regional competition brought together 120 high school students who compete in 15 different categories from computer animation to culinary arts and electronics to welding.  This year's regional competition - held in Campbell River March 26 - saw 50 students from the Comox Valley rally for a prize. Lake Trail Secondary brought its own cheerleading team to support Tina Tang in the culinary arts competition.  Read more.
 
En’owkin and College partner to support learners
Okanagan College Media Release, April 13, 2010
The En’owkin Centre and Okanagan College are strengthening their working relationship.  The organizations signed a Memorandum of Affiliation (MOA) on Tuesday that will serve to formalize the institutions’ partnership and joint efforts to provide access to education and training opportunities for learners in the region.  The College and En’owkin Centre have been engaged in collaborative work since the College’s creation in 2005. The MOA agreement will serve to enhance the institutions’ working relationship, creating a Joint Affiliation Committee, which will research, advise and develop new courses, programs and resources for learners.  Read more.
 
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New Dean comes geared for business
Okanagan College Media Release, April 12, 2010
Okanagan College’s new Dean of Business Administration and Commercial Aviation won’t have trouble finding her way around when she settles into her new role on June 1.  Dr. Heather Banham is currently an Associate Dean in the Okanagan School of Business and has been a professor and administrator for 18 years. She previously served as Acting Dean in 2006-07. Banham will replace Dr. Jayne Brooks, who has served as a Dean since 2000.   “We’re excited to announce the selection of Heather as the new Dean,” said Dr. Andrew Hay, Vice-President of Education at Okanagan College. “Applications were received from candidates across the country. The students and graduates from the Okanagan School of Business have a very successful track record and Heather has been an integral contributor to that success.”  Read more.
 
Student Internships Gets $150,000 Boost
Langara College Media Release, April 12, 2010
Langara College welcomed $150,000 in new funding for student opportunities from Industry Canada’s Small Business Internship Program (SBIP). The program, administered through the Langara College Co-operative Education Department, encourages small and medium-sized enterprises to increase their adoption of e-commerce projects by providing financial support to hire a post-secondary student interns.  “Students are e-business savvy so they’re ideal for these sorts of projects,” said Gayleen Wren, Langara College Co-operative Education Coordinator. “It’s a real win-win. Students get ‘real world’ work experience, while employers get access to a motivated workforce to explore new e-commerce opportunities or expand existing initiatives.” Read more.
 
NWCC classes probe feasibility of run of the river projects
Northwest Community College Media Release, April 12, 2010
Flying in helicopters, going up chairlifts, snowshoeing in three feet of fresh powder, and fording through gorgeous, fast flowing streams and canyons in the middle of winter. Doesn’t sound like your average school field trips, does it?  Those winter field trips bring findings from two Northwest Community College (NWCC) second-year geography classes that looked into the implications of developing a run of the river hydroelectric project on the Shames River. They will be presented Tuesday, April 13 at the College’s Terrace Campus.  Since early January 2010, students from instructor Gord Weary’s Hydrology and Environments & Society courses have been conducting hydrological and environmental surveys within the Shames Watershed, west of Terrace and home to the Shames Mountain Ski Resort. The work is part of a joint community project looking at the hydrological, environmental, cultural and economic implications of a hypothetical run of the river hydroelectricity development on the Shames River. Read more.
 
Province Funds New CNC Health Professional Program
College of New Caledonia Media Release, April 12, 2010
The provincial government will provide the College of New Caledonia with nearly $2.7 million in one-time funding to establish a Medical Radiography Technology (MRT) program.  The Ministry of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development and the Ministry of Health Services have finalized an agreement with CNC for the funding of the two-year program, which will start in September 2011. The agreement will see the province provide ongoing annual operating funding totaling $591,000 when it is fully enrolled with students. “We are very excited to be implementing the MRT program at CNC. It will fulfill a critical need for skilled medical imaging technologists to work in hospitals as well as in support of the Northern Cancer Control Strategy and new cancer clinic in Prince George,” said CNC President John Bowman. “The new MRT program here, would not be possible without the support of our health and education system partners and the tireless effort and vision of CNC’s Vice-President, Community and Student Services Cathe Wishart and our Dean of Health Sciences, Patricia Covington.” Read more.
 
College of the Rockies Board of Governors announces appointment
College of the Rockies Media Release, April 9, 2010
The Board of Governors of College of the Rockies (COTR) is pleased to announce the appointment of a new Board member. Appointed to the College Board through Provincial Order in Council is David Handy of Creston for a term ending July 31, 2011.  Mr. Handy is a retired lawyer who was a partner with Fulton and Company in Kamloops, BC. His principal area of practice was civil litigation specializing in family law and municipal law. Mr. Handy has also worked as a social worker and probation officer, and most recently was self-employed in his own orchard. He has mediation training and experience and extensive community volunteer service.  Mr. Handy attended Trinity Western University and graduated from Seattle Pacific University and the University of British Columbia with a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Laws. He lives in Creston where he enjoys family, golf and travel. Read more.
 
They designed, they built, they flung and they won!  Mechanical Engineering Technology catapult winning team
Camosun College Media Release, April 9, 2010
Seven students from Camosun’s Mechanical Engineering Technology travelled to UBC on March 26 for the fourth annual Wood Catapult Competition. Hosted by Wood WORKS! BC, the competition attracted more than a dozen teams from BC universities and colleges.The enthusiastic Camosun team walked away with top honours for Best Design and Best Presentation, plus $1,000 in cash!  The competition challenged student teams to design and build an all-wood Siege Engine capable of hurling two-pound projectiles across UBC’s football field. Before the physical trials, each team also had to present their design and justify every design decision to a panel of experts.  Read more.
 
VCC students sweep regional culinary arts skills competition
Vancouver Community College Media Release, April 9, 2010
Three young students of Vancouver Community College's culinary arts partnership program took gold, silver and bronze medals for secondary school students at the 2010 Lower Mainland Regional Skills Canada Competition.The VCC students, who are also Grade 12 students of Samuel Robertson Technical Secondary School in Maple Ridge, took all the medals awarded in the competition. "I couldn't believe it," said Horst Zimmermann, culinary arts instructor in the VCC partnership program. "You can well imagine how excited they were. This is big stuff for them."  Read more.

 
Langara Launches the "Think Green" Website
Langara College Media Release, April 8, 2010
Langara College shares its ongoing commitment to sustainability with the launch of a new Langara Thinks Green sustainability website. The aptly titled website features the College’s sustainability initiatives to date, as well as future plans and useful tips on how to lighten your ecological footprint.  The goal of Langara Thinks Green is to bring to life the College’s commitment to a being part of a sustainable society. By sharing its initiatives, the institution hopes to foster and provide leadership to create more environmentally sound, socially just, and  economically vibrant communities.  In addition to the website, the College is providing leadership through various initiatives. From using recycled paper products in the cafeteria to constructing new campus buildings to LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold standards, the College is working proactively to set an example by minimizing its ecological footprint. More recently, Langara hired an energy manager through the BC Hydro energy manager program in 2009. The energy manager will help Langara carry on its mandate to become more energy efficient and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.  Read more.

 
Entrance awards available to NLC students
Northern Lights College Media Release, April 8, 2010
Students entering Northern Lights College in September are eligible to apply for four entrance awards available through the Northern Lights College Foundation.   The Audrey Clark Memorial Bursary, valued at $5,000, is available to a single parent entering full-time studies at Northern Lights College in Applied Business Technology or Business Management. Financial need may be considered. This award was created by Penn West Energy Trust in memory of Audrey Clark, a former employee of Penn West.   Up to 10 students attending NLC for the first time will benefit from NLC Foundation Entrance awards, valued at $1,000 per student. Secondary school graduates and mature students are eligible, as well as former Dual Credit students, if they are enrolling in a program other than their Dual Credit area. Applicants must be enrolling in full-time studies in any program at the college, and submit a brief description of planned program and future career goals.  Read more.
 
Continuing Education E-learners at NWCC more than double
Northwest Community College Media Release, April 8, 2010
More than twice as many students wired into the internet to take courses online through Northwest Community College’s (NWCC) Continuing Education & Industry Training (CEIT) department this year compared to last.  Two hundred and seven CEIT students completed distance courses during the 2009-2010 fiscal year while only 93 did the same in 2008-2009.  “The College’s Continuing Education & Industry Training department started diversifying and offering hundreds of new courses and certificate programs last year. This likely attracted new students and motivated former students to take more courses,” said Margo Van der Touw, NWCC Dean of Trades, Continuing Education & Industry Training.  NWCC CEIT department offers a variety of career training programs in many subjects including media, design, health care, fitness, management, finance, and hospitality. Through its online learning partner Ed2Go, the College also offers shorter courses in subjects such as writing, photography, accounting, personal development and computer applications.  Read more.
 
Major changes coming at College of the Rockies
College of the Rockies Media Release, April 6, 2010
Just when you thought you knew where you were going at the College of the Rockies Cranbrook Main Campus, everything is going to change.  As a result of the construction of the new south entrance and the subsequent move of 'front-of-house' personnel into this new space in late August, there will be extensive interior renovations as departments are reconfigured.  During the renovations, which are scheduled from May 1 through July 31, several departments will be relocating to temporary quarters in Summit Hall. These include International Education, Student Services, Admissions/Registration, Continuing Education, Financial Aid, Room Bookings and Invigilation, Communications and Marketing, Production Support Centre and Reception. Read more.
 
Camosun business faculty wrote the book -Camosun College faculty co-authors first Canadian edition of accounting textbook
Camosun Media Release, April 8, 2010
Tana Kristjanson and Dr. Sheila F. Elworthy are both chartered accountants, teachers and now authors. Kristjanson and Elworthy co-authoured the Canadian first edition of Accounting. The textbook was published by Nelson Education Ltd. in February.  Tana Kristjanson teaches accounting at Camosun College’s School of Business. Dr.Elworthy taught at Camosun College, and is currently Vice-President, Learning, at the CA School of Business (CASB), the credentialing body for chartered accountants.  Accounting(First Canadian Edition )is based on the best-selling US textbook by Carl Warren, James Reeve and Jonathan Duchac.  Read more.
 
Douglas College Wins Wheelchair Basketball Championship
Vancouver Sun, April 4, 2010
Douglas College continues to rule Canada wheelchair basketball.  The New Westminster-based community college is the training home of B.C. Wheelchair Basketball, where you don’t necessarily need to be a registered student to compete in their programs. Heading into this past weekend’s Canadian Wheelchair Basketball League Open championships, Douglas College teams had won three of the last four national titles.  As of Sunday, you can make that four of the last five Canadian crowns — and three in row — following a 58-52 gold medal victory over the Great Lakes Variety Village Rolling Rebels of Scarborough, Ont.  Read more.
Great opportunity for NIC Heavy Duty Mechanic students
Courier-Islander, Friday, April 02, 2010
This January, North Island College Heavy Duty Mechanic students received an exciting gift from a partner institution in Alberta. Grande Prairie Regional College (GPRC) will provide the opportunity to work and learn on three CAT engines.  "NIC is fortunate to have such a positive relationship with GPRC," explains Jeff Wharton, Coordinator of NIC's Trades & Technical Programs. "These three engines are the second donation we have received, making a total of five engines over the last two years."  Read more.
 
Students win 15 awards in business competition
Langara Media Release, April 1, 2010
Langara College students won 15 award at this year’s BC Business Simulation Competition held March 19-21 at the Okanagan School of Business in Kelowna. Langara and eight other BC colleges went head-to-head in a series of challenges over an intense 3-day period. The College’s Junior and Senior teams performed remarkably, demonstrating strategic thinking, superb communications, and strong team work skills. Read more.
 
CNC’s International Education Centre is unveiling two unique and colourful mosaics College of New Caledonia Media Release, April 1, 2010
The media is invited to an unveiling reception at 3 p.m. at the college’s International Education Centre, Room 1-785. Local mosaic artist Ian King, who spearheaded the project, will also be present as well as CNC president John Bowman who will speak at 3:30 p.m.  “The mosaics celebrate not only the college’s diversity but the community’s diversity of its international and First Nations students,” said Jefferson Li, student service assistant at the International Education Centre. King brought his idea to CNC in October 2009 to celebrate the centre’s diversity. He enlisted the support of Lee along with Christine Dawson, cultural advisor at the First Nations Support Services centre to be mosaic co-ordinators and they put their heads together. Read more.
 




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