In the News - March 2010

 
Government of Canada Supports Literacy and Essential Skills Project for Aboriginal People
Market Wire, Monday, Mar 8 2010
Aboriginal workers in British Columbia will benefit from a federally funded project aimed at improving their success in the job market. The Honourable Jim Abbott, Member of Parliament for Kootenay-Columbia, made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development. "Our government believes that working with partners to improve literacy and essential skills is the best way to help Canadians get jobs and build better futures," said Mr. Abbott. "In today's economic environment, it is more important than ever that Aboriginal people have the skills they need to participate in the job market."  The Ktunaxa Nation Council will receive $152,095 from the Office of Literacy and Essential Skills for its Essential Skills Assessment Workplace Readiness project. In partnership with the College of the Rockies, the Council will develop and pilot an informal skills assessment tool, designed to assist service providers who work with Aboriginal learners. This project will help Aboriginal adults overcome barriers to learning and move effectively into job training, education and the labour market. It will also build capacity in communities and broaden access to employer resources. Read more.
 
Okanagan Business Students' Association Trumps Business Banquet with Apprentice winner Bill Rancic
Okanagan College Media Release, March 8, 2010
The Okanagan Business Students’ Association (OBSA) is presenting the 31st Annual Business Banquet at the Coast Capri Hotel featuring keynote speaker Bill Rancic, winner of the first season of Donald Trump’s The Apprentice. The Business Banquet will take place on the evening of Mar. 18 from 5 – 9 p.m. and is the most prominent public function for Okanagan College business students, giving students the opportunity to interact and network on a professional level with members of the business community.  An entrepreneurial expert, Rancic will reveal how to use challenging times to your advantage in a business environment as well as how to think long-term in a short-term world. Rancic will draw on his experience teaching individuals how to manage and lead teams in times of uncertainty. “Bill Rancic radiates the entrepreneurial spirit that we’re sure many in the community will find motivating,” said Erin Chmiel, President of the O.B.S.A. “We are looking forward to promoting the talents of the business students at Okanagan College and the beautiful Okanagan Valley itself.” Read more.
 
OK College contributions reap rewards; Educators await details on where dollars to fall
The Daily Courier (Kelowna),Fri Mar 5  2010
There's good news in the federal budget for post-secondary education, Okanagan College president Jim Hamilton says. The federal government is doubling the amount of money in the college and community innovation program which commercializes the fruits of research, he said. "The most obvious connection, of course, would be with our project in Penticton, the new Centre of Excellence," he said. "We're looking for whatever opportunities present themselves there and elsewhere in the college, too." Read more.
 
Paralympic primer packs Douglas College
New Westminster News Leader, Thu Mar 4  2010
If the crowds at Douglas College on Wednesday were any indication, Olympic fever is likely going to carry over to the upcoming Paralympic Games as well. The school's main gym was packed for several hours during an open house hosted by the Therapeutic Recreation program that provided people the
opportunity to try out a number of Paralympic sports from both the Summer and Winter Games. Not all sports from the upcoming games were included (it would be awfully hard to simulate alpine skiing or biathlon in a school gymnasium, after all) but it afforded a chance for the able-bodied and the not-so-able-bodied alike to mix it up in such sports as sledge hockey and wheelchair rugby (more commonly known as the less politically correct "murderball"), curling, basketball, and volleyball. This being Canada, the most popular one to give the old college try was sledge hockey. Read more.

 
BUDGET 2010 – BUILDING A PROSPEROUS BRITISH COLUMBIA
Province of British Columbia Media Release, March 2, 2010
Setting the foundation for decades of renewed economic growth, protecting vital services, adding to British Columbia’s competitiveness and building on the tremendous momentum of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games are core elements of the 2010 provincial budget tabled in the B.C. Legislature today by Finance Minister Colin Hansen.
 “We are enhancing support for B.C.’s families, meeting our financial targets, maintaining our commitments to health and education, and we are on track to return to balanced budgets in 2013,” said Hansen. “Recognizing the many opportunities resulting from the global exposure provided by the Olympic Games, we are also furthering our investments in areas such as clean energy, arts and culture and international commerce while ensuring future job growth across B.C.”  Read more.
 
Smithers Campus renovation hitting full stride
Northwest Community College Media Release, March 1, 2010
The renovation and revitalization of NWCC’s Smithers Campus is generating buzz in the Bulkley Valley community as the project reached a major milestone recently when the concrete slab was poured. Until now, the project has been very weather dependent, and the construction crew has been fortunate to have a mild winter on its side. Now that the cement has been poured, and is curing, the progress is less dependent on the weather and will be much more visible from now on. Nonetheless, the project has gained the attention of the community, with local schools paying visits throughout the process that began in the fall of 2009. Read more.
 
NWCC School of Exploration & Mining wins prestigious award for strategic partnerships
Northwest Community College Media Release, March 1, 2010
Northwest Community College (NWCC) School of Exploration & Mining (SEM) has done it again. The school has won its second prestigious award in two months, this time for the close partnerships it has developed and maintains with local community groups, and the resulting impacts they’ve had on the region.In conjunction with the Conference Board of Canada, the International Partnership Network (IPN) has awarded SEM a 2010 Global Best Award in the partnership category Developing Skills of the Future Workforce. SEM competed against entries from across North and South America to take top place for the partnership that founded and operates the school, a partnership between NWCC and Smithers Exploration Group (SEG), a Smithers-based organization dedicated to serving and promoting the mineral industry in Northwest British Columbia.  IPN, a diverse group of international organizations dedicated to supporting and promoting best practice partnerships around the world, awards Global Best Awards in four categories every two years. The awards recognize outstanding and effective joint ventures among business, education and community organizations worldwide. Read more.
 

In the News - February 2010

Trail woman achieves top degree in music; Maria Ciardullo earns associate of Royal Conservatory of Music degree
Trail Daily Times, Feb 26  2010
Maria Ciardullo recently attended the convocation ceremonies at the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto where she obtained her associate of the Royal Conservatory of Music degree in piano teaching with first class honours. This degree is the highest level of achievement through the Royal Conservatory which was founded in 1886 and has distinguished alumni such as Glenn Gould, Oscar Peterson, Gordon Lightfoot and David Foster, just to mention a few. Ciardullo began piano studies at the age of six with piano teacher Jean Fischer. At the age of 16, Ciardullo received the B.C./Yukon composition award for a song she composed for the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics, entitled "Calgary, A Canadian Dream." To feed her musical passion she attended the professional music program at Selkirk College where she received her diploma in musical composition.  Read more.
Social Service Worker student doubles up on awards
Northwest Community College Media, Release, Feb 24, 2010
Social Service Worker Diploma student Mike Davis continues to be recognized for his achievements, both in and out of the classroom. Last year, Davis was awarded the BC Aboriginal Student Award from the Irving K. Barber Scholarship Society. This time, he has received a national award from the Assembly of First Nations. Davis was chosen winner of a Heroes of our Time scholarship, specifically, the Walter Dieter Memorial Award for his academic excellence and work as a volunteer in the community. Davis has volunteered his time coaching youth basketball and soccer, and worked at the Terrace Emergency Shelter during his most recent practicum. He says he was unprepared for the surprise of hearing the news of his latest accomplishment. Read more.
 
Selkirk budgets for cuts
Nelson Star, Feb 24  2010
Selkirk College is planning for a deep cut to its annual capital allowance when the provincial budget update is announced next week. All B.C. colleges were told to plan a tighter capital budget for their 2010- 2011fiscal year, which begins April 1. At Selkirk the allowance for upgrades and maintenance to facilities is expected to be slashed by 74 per cent, reducing it from $1.4 million to $368,000. "There are many routine things, like putting fresh paint on the wall, that just won't happen this year," explained Selkirk College president Marilyn Luscombe. The college is working internally to put aside a contingency fund to use for emergency maintenance that may be needed through the year, though it hasn't disclosed where that money will come from. Read more.

 
UNBC looking to offer science degrees at NWCC campus
The Northern View, Feb 23  2010
On February 18, the University of Northern British Columbia held a meeting at the college discussing the possibility of UNBC expanding its Science offerings through Northwest Community College. "We are very committed to bring science degrees to the Northwest," said Judith Lapadat, who works with UNBC in Terrace and was one of the key speakers at the meeting. UNBC's expansion to the Northwest would include courses in both Prince Rupert and Terrace. However, both towns would have slightly different courses based on the environment around them. Prince Rupert would offer Biology, whereas Terrace would offer Geography and GIS courses. Both Prince Rupert and Terrace would offer courses in Environmental and Earth Sciences. Read more.
 
Trades students get hands-on experience
Invermere Valley Echo, Feb 23  2010
A co-operative approach to learning is offering some new tricks to go with the old trades in Invermere. The College of the Rockies (COTR) course, Intro to Trades, which promises to present over 140 skilled trades as well as over 40 Red Seal trades available in B.C., just kicked off this week. What is different about it, though, is that students are getting more than just the classroom experience. The students are going to be spending almost two weeks with Dave Ridge, owner of Fairmont Ridge Renovations in Invermere. Ridge employs 25 full-time tradespeople to provide building services to the community, and according to COTR manager Doug Clovechok there is no limit to the skills students can learn from them. Read more.
 
Taking care of business - at college
Globe Advisor, Monday, February 22, 2010
Many people think of commerce programs as the sole domain of universities. They would be wrong.  In Halifax, Shawn Swinkels, 23, has his heart set on being an entrepreneur, running his own marketing company for small business. In Toronto, David Uleryk, 24, sees himself as a business executive, based perhaps in the Caribbean or Europe. In Sudbury, Carly Hughes, 22, is looking forward to a career path that will take her well beyond being a filing clerk or secretary, and in Kelowna, Reid Shillington, 34, wants a career, not just a job.  What ties all four of these young people together is that each decided the building blocks of their future lay in community college business courses. They represent a swelling tide of people - young and not so young - who are enrolling in one-, two- and three-year diploma programs, post-diploma certificate courses and even undergraduate degree courses at colleges across the country.  Read more.
 
Kelowna woman’s designs scheduled to hit runway for Montreal Fashion Week
www.kelowna.com, February 21, 2010
Kelowna’s Nicole Obidowski has sketched, threaded and stitched her way to one of the most exclusive fashion events in Canada.  Last year she submitted her designs to the Telio Design Competition, as part of her coursework for the fashion design program at Vancouver Community College.  Judges were taken by  the casual sportswear sketches she put forward, and she became one of only 25 Canada-wide who will see her creations — finished with some Telio fabric —presented at a runway show during Montreal Fashion Week March 4.  “I completely never thought I would get chosen as semi-finalist, because the theme this year.  Art-a-porter— Traditional artisan and couture techniques, so think embroidery, beading, needlework — was so outside of my normal style as I have been heading in a more minimal, sportswear-like direction lately,” Obidowski said.  Read more.
 
Centre of Excellence story goes to a global audience
Okanagan College Media Release, February 19, 2010
The story of Okanagan College’s Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation is going global.  Dr. Andrew Hay, Okanagan College’s Vice President Education, and Robert Parlane, a senior project manager with CEI Architecture Planning Interiors, will be in Seoul, South Korea next week to present a paper on the $28-million structure and its innovative design at an international conference focused on sustainable building technologies and higher education. It’s called SB10 SEOUL International Conference on Sustainable Building Asia.   The $28-million Centre, slated for completion in March 2011, is aiming to meet the standards of the Living Building Challenge. That Challenge is a product of the International Living Building Institute and its guidelines focus on developing structures that are among the most sustainable possible. Two requirements, for instance, are that the structures have to be net zero energy and water consumers. Among many of its unique features, Penticton’s Centre will have the largest photovoltaic solar array on a non-utility building in Canada. At peak periods of the summer, it will be contributing electricity to the grid. It will also feature interactive instrumentation, so that students and others interested in sustainable buildings can monitor what the building is doing, utility consumption, temperatures, etc.  Read more.
 
Tourists descend on native sites, Amazing response to arts, crafts
The Province, February 19, 2010
Sales are brisk at these Olympic Games for all things First Nations: cedar carvings, Salish weaving, Kwakwaka'wakw silver and masks, drums and high-end Haida clothing.  With the Four Host First Nations as the first-ever indigenous Olympics co-hosts, intense promotion by Aboriginal Tourism B.C. and strong native themes at almost all Games events, "there is a real buzz in the air," said Sophie Pierre, chair of Aboriginal Tourism B.C.  "Without a doubt, there has been so much interest generated at these Games in aboriginal culture and tourism, we expect very significant economic spinoffs," said Pierre.  "We have members in every corner of the province, so this will benefit all First Nations over the long term," said Pierre.  Read more.
 
Local companies refused opportunity to bid on Selkirk residence reno project
Nelson Daily News, February 19, 2010
Local carpenters and tradespeople are upset because no local companies have been accepted to bid on Selkirk College’s 10th Street Campus residence renovation project.  Paul Neddelec of the Carpenter’s Union Local 2300 said three construction companies from the West Kootenay answered Selkirk’s request for qualifications on the project along with 11 other companies from outside the area.  Three were chosen to bid on the project, but none of the local companies were among them — though Neddelec said they are qualified to do the work.  “Two I know could definitely do the job within the timelines and fit all the qualifications,” Neddelec said. “They’ve done a number of design-build projects.  Read more.
 
Making Gold Medal Meals at Aboriginal House
Vancouver Sun, February 18, 2010
California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s been in for dinner. A sniffer dog liked the smell of things and gave the place a happy wag of tail; a security detail swept the premises (but not with brooms) and there was a lockdown during the meal.  Every day, dignitaries and boldfaced names such as Governor General Michaëlle Jean and Tantoo Cardinal come in to eat. All told, four kitchen staff members cook for more than a thousand people at the 2010 Aboriginal House on Queen Elizabeth Plaza. During the day, Aboriginal House hosts private events and in the evening, from 8 p.m., the public are welcome in the dining room. Sometimes the dining room opens to the public earlier, depending on the number of private functions. Check the website, www.fourhostfirstnations.com, for early openings.  The buck-stops-here guy in the kitchen, chef Arnold Olson, is a ship calmly plowing through churning ocean waters. It might be a symptom of exhaustion from consecutive 18-hour days, but more likely it’s his considerable experience that keeps him from behaving like he’s captain of the Titanic. Read more.

 
Aboriginal chefs have sights set on Culinary Olympics in Germany
Vancouver Sun, February 18, 2010
Although the B.C. aboriginal culinary team was formed just two years ago, its members have big dreams of competing in the 2012 IKA Culinary Olympics against chefs from around the world.  They’re hoping a special feast they are preparing nightly during the 2010 Olympics will help them achieve their goal since partial proceeds of the venture will help fund their journey to Erfurt, Germany.  Chef and team manager Ben Genaille, of Kanata Cuisine, said not only are members practising their culinary skills and team building, but visitors and locals have an opportunity to enjoy authentic aboriginal cuisine.   The seven-course meal is paired with wine from Nk’Mip Cellars, B.C.’s only aboriginal winery, which is owned and operated by the Osoyoos Band in the Okanagan.  The feast takes place nightly at the Native Education College’s longhouse in Vancouver, where singers entertain visitors with traditional songs and drumming.  “For the next 10 days, we will be raising awareness of aboriginal cuisine and the aboriginal culinary team,” said Genaille, who also teaches aboriginal culinary arts at Vancouver Community College.  Read more.

Selkirk Students Gain Olympic Experience
Selkirk College Media Release, Feb 17, 2010
Chelsea MathiesonSelkirk College students are gaining valuable work experience during the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver, thanks to opportunities presented through the Co-op Education and Employment Services Department (CEES) at Selkirk College.Chelsea Mathieson and Bernice Purdey of Nelson accessed the Vancouver Organizing Committee’s (VANOC) Sponsored Student Work Term Program through CEES and were hired to perform various job functions during the games.  Read more.
 
Prominent duo add their support to Okanagan College fundraising campaign
Okanagan College Media Release, February 16, 2010
Two prominent citizens of the South Okanagan are adding their support to the fundraising campaign for Okanagan College’s Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation in Penticton.  Yasmin and Rick Thorpe have a long association with Okanagan College and will serve as Honorary Campaign Co-Chairs of the $5-million fundraising campaign for the Centre of Excellence.  “I’m thrilled,” says Okanagan College Foundation President Steve Tuck. “Yasmin and Rick are tremendous supporters of the College and post-secondary education in the Okanagan. They’ve helped make higher learning a reality for many students in our region through their scholarship program.”  “I know the respect they have earned from the residents of the South Okanagan and British Columbians,” says Okanagan College President Jim Hamilton. “Their presence will significantly benefit our fund-raising and help make the Centre of Excellence a reality in Penticton.” Read more.

 
Métis artist selected as final participant in Coca-Cola's aboriginal art bottle program
Canada News Wire, February 15, 2010
Today, Coca-Cola selected Lisa Shepherd (College of New Caledonia instructor) as the final artist in its Aboriginal art bottle program. In total, 15 artists were selected from more than 100 Aboriginal artists across Canada to participate in the program, which was designed to leverage the Olympic opportunity and help the Aboriginal community share its culture with the world. The program will also help the Aboriginal community financially. From February 15 - 25, 2010, each Coca-Cola Art Bottle will be available to collectors from around the world for purchase at the Aboriginal Art Bottle Auction. All proceeds will go to the Vancouver 2010 Aboriginal Youth Legacy Fund, which supports First Nations, Inuit, and Métis youth across Canada.

"Our cultures are thriving and we want to share them with the world," said Tewanee Joseph, Chief Executive Officer of the Four Host First Nations, Official Partners of the 2010 Winter Games. "When visitors come to the Games, they will experience First Nations, Inuit and Métis cultures in an unprecedented way, from works of art in prominent locations at venues to youth acting as torchbearers and flame attendants during the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay. The Coca-Cola Aboriginal Art Bottle program is another exciting example of how the diversity of Aboriginal peoples will be showcased during the Games."  Read more.

 
Father, son appear at games
TerraceStandard.com, February 13, 2010
Two Northwestern residents had a role in last night's opening ceremonies of the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics at B.C. Place.  Robin McLean was one of a large group of aboriginal dancers taking part in the ceremonies.  He's also a carver and has carved a mask for his father Norm McLean who will be performing with the Gidhmes Dancers from Gitwsegukla during the first round of medal ceremonies Sunday night at B.C. Place.  Robin McLean is a 2009 graduate from the Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art at Northwest Community College in Terrace while Norm McLean is in the second year of the First Nations Fine Arts Diploma program.  Read more.

Artist pays tribute to the Olympics
North Island College Media Release, Friday, February 12, 2010
Local artist and North Island College student, Anita Van Holderbeke (AVANH) has created an art show to celebrate the Olympic spirit as a tribute to our Canadian athletes.  As a child, Anita wanted to be an Olympic athlete and 'participated' in the games over the years by watching world athletes on television - the greatest reality show on earth, that unites the world in a performance of global ecellence."Our human technological advances in communication and media as well as the incredible number of individuals that will be tuned in together at one time is truly amazing," she said.  Read more.

Wind Turbine Maintenance Technician program underway
Northern Lights College Media Release, February 10, 2010
The only Wind Turbine Maintenance Technician program offered in British Columbia is underway at Northern Lights College with a full inaugural intake of 16 learners.  The Wind Turbine Technician program is one of the cornerstones of the NLC’s Centre of Excellence for Clean Energy Technologies based at Dawson Creek Campus.  The program commenced on Feb. 1, and it was a busy first week for the learners and instructor Duane Mitchell. Read more.
 
Freda Diesing students showcased at the Olympics!
Northwest Community College Media Release, February 10, 2010
Northwest Community College (NWCC) students and graduates are among the many contributors to the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games that kick off with opening ceremonies this Friday, Feb. 12. Games officials promised to showcase the art and culture of First Nations, Inuit and Métis from across Canada, and over the past few years, organizers were on a scouting mission for talented artists and performers.  Sal Ferreras, organizer of music and dance for the Aboriginal Pavilion — a joint project of the Four Host First Nations and the Vancouver Organizing Committee — visited the Northwest last year during the Challenging the Paradigm Summer Gathering; it was during this visit that he met Robin McLean and saw him perform.  “Robin will dance in the much anticipated kickoff to the Games, the opening ceremonies this Friday, February 12th at 5 p.m. at BC Place Stadium”, stated Stephanie Forsyth, President of Northwest Community College. “A 2009 Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art (FDS) graduate, Robin McLean will dance with a group of 300 Aboriginals selected from across Canada. This is a tremendous opportunity for Robin, who is not only a dancer, but a carver.” Read more.
 
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Douglas College student beats cancer, becomes Olympic torch bearer
Douglas College Media Release, February 8, 2010
Two-time cancer survivor Anna Solnickova will be thinking of Terry Fox as she completes her portion of the Olympic torch run tomorrow.  Solnickova beat osteosarcoma and then lung cancer, both the same types of cancer that Terry Fox had, before coming to Douglas College to study business administration. Her perseverance, courage and dedication to the community are why she was selected to be the official Douglas College torch bearer. Read more.
Creston Campus greenhouses contribute to community
College of the Rockies Media Release, Monday, February 08, 2010
With January over, plans at the College of the Rockies’ Creston Campus are beginning to bud for the on-campus greenhouses. The greenhouses were constructed for the previous Horticulture Technician program at the Creston Campus and have now been re-purposed for community use with a number of programs and workshops taking place each season.
The greenhouses at the Creston Campus of College of the Rockies are now the home of the Creston Community Greenhouse Project.The College of the Rockies' Community Greenhouse Project began in 2004 and, with funding from Columbia Basin Trust and Investment Agriculture Foundation of BC, has grown to include eight ongoing programs with plans to add more. The programs engage all age groups and range from Children Growing Gardens to Soils for Seniors. Other programs include Prince Charles Secondary School Work Experience, Families Growing Gardens, School Snacks, Winter Harvest Research, Spring Seeding for Gardeners and Grow to Share.  Read more.
 
Langara College Celebrates the Passing of the Olympic Flame
Langara College Media Release, Feb 5, 2010
The Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay will pass by Langara College along West 49th Avenue on Thursday, February 11, 2010 at 4:05 PM. Langara College Human Kinetics student, Evan Eichler, will carry the torch and represent the College in the relay. The community is invited to participate in this once-in–a-lifetime opportunity and cheer on Eichler.  "It is a privilege and honour for Langara College to be given the opportunity to be part of history as the Olympic Flame passes through our community held by our torchbearer", said Langara College President, Dr. David Ross. Langara College is proud to support the legacy of the 2010 Winter Games as a member of the Vancouver 2010 Community Contributor Program.
Eichler, former student-elect member of the College Board of Governors, was nominated as Langara College’s torchbearer for his outstanding service as an active student in the Langara community.  “I felt like I made the NHL! I never even knew something like this could happen, but it was like I’ve been working towards this all my life!” said Eichler. Read more.

 
Healing Perspectives - A groundbreaking new Indigenous radio show
Camosun College Media Release, February 5, 2010
When Trevor Day first enrolled in the Indigenous Studies Circle Seminar at Camosun College, the last thing he expected was to find himself hosting Healing Perspectives, Village 900’s newest weekly radio program. Now, Trevor and his classmates have teamed up to forge a groundbreaking new show. Healing Perspectives airs at 7pm on Tuesday evenings, and again at 9am on Sunday mornings.  Despite Trevor’s busy school schedule, he makes the time to gather diverse groups of people and co-ordinate the weekly recording sessions. He also made time to take us behind the scenes to explain what the show is about, and how it all began.  “It (the Talking Circle Seminar) was taught by Ruth Lyall last semester, and I found it to be a very powerful experience. I had never participated in a circle before, and I was surprised at how comfortable I felt speaking in front of a large group.”   Read more.
 
Selkirk Pursues Environmental Sustainability
Selkirk College Media Release, Feb 5, 2010
Selkirk College, along with other educational institutions in North America and the world, is actively pursuing environmental sustainability in all facets of its locations, hoping to reduce its overall impact on the environment.
Last year, the Environmental Sustainability (ES) Committee at Selkirk College hired Renewable Resource Instructor Derek Marcoux, along with two students, Suzanne Fordyce and Jeremy Prahl, to provide a “State of the Environment” report which would provide a benchmark set of data, marking the current status of environmental conditions at the campuses located in Castlegar, Trail and Nelson, BC. Areas of energy, emissions, waste, transportation, water, biodiversity, products and services and environmental compliance were researched and included in the study.     Read more.
 

Government funding for Northwest Community College 2010-2011
Northwest Community College President's Report, Feb 4, 2010
While cuts to discretionary funds continue, the Ministry has worked hard to secure the operating budgets for colleges and institutes for the next three years. Our funding for cyclical maintenance and repairs (referred to as an Annual Capital Allowance or ACA) took a hit however, and will be reduced by 74
per cent. This is a significant reduction for a college that is struggling to maintain 40 year old buildings. Rather than a fund of $824,696 (April 1, 2009), our ACA budget for 2010-11 has been reduced to $214,297. This cutback occurs on the heels of last summer’s reduction of over $200,000—a cut that hurt but was substantially less painful than the one experienced by school districts that lost all of their ACA funding in 2009.  Budget information is still being analyzed for its overall impact. (page 3 of PDF).   Read more.
Double Digit Enrolment Growth at NIC
North Island College Media Release, Feb 3, 2010
Registrations at North Island College have increased by 19%, when compared to figures from the same time last year, while the number of students has increased by 13%. According to Lisa Domae, Vice-President, Student and Educational Services, enrolments have increased across all of North Island College’s major program areas with particularly strong growth in the Academic, Trades, Technical and Tourism, and the Health, Human Services and Applied Business Technology divisions.  NIC is also seeing increasing numbers of students accessing its Adult Upgrading courses as a
pathway to university transfer and career oriented studies.  The only area where NIC has not experienced growth is in Apprenticeship training.  “This is a lingering effect of the economic slowdown as employers are less able to take on apprentices,” explains Domae.  “On the flip side, enrolment in our Foundation Trades programs continues to climb as students seek to obtain skills needed for economic growth.”    Read more.
 
NWCC Instructor carries Olympic Torch in Terrace
Northwest Community College Media Release, Feb 3, 2010
Northwest Community College (NWCC) instructor Dr. Norma Kerby carried the Olympic Torch as part of a group of torchbearers leading the famed Olympic symbol away from the Terrace community celebration Feb. 1 before it later stopped in the communities of Kitsumkalum, New Aiyansh and Prince Rupert.  Dr. Kerby, a biology and geography instructor at NWCC Terrace, said the opportunity to carry the flame briefly along Terrace's main street — Lakelse Avenue — was a chance of a lifetime.  "I was very grateful to be asked to participate," said Dr. Kerby. "It was a real interesting experience that bonded the country together."  The longtime instructor ran with a team calling themselves the Skeena Watershed Stewardship Group, composed of people from the region involved in work and advocacy to maintain and improve the health of the Skeena watershed.    Read more.
 
Pilot program helps new Canadians with work experience
Coquitlam Now, Wed Feb 3  2010
A new program aims to assist internationally trained human service workers to improve their English skills and gain hands-on Canadian work experience in the Tri-Cities. The Internationally Trained Human Service Worker Program is a five-month initiative offered by SUCCESS and Douglas College in collaboration with more than a dozen local service organizations. The pilot project, funded by the provincial and federal governments, is open to Tri-Cities residents with documented international credentials and experience in the human services field  -- including early childhood educators, mental health workers, home health-care workers, child and youth care workers, counsellors and community advocates. Applicants must either be permanent residents or Canadian citizens, and they need to be assessed at an intermediate level of English language. Read more.
 
NWCC offers new foundation and apprentice trades program
Northwest Community College Media Release, Feb 2, 2010
Northwest Community College (NWCC) now offers two new trades programs at its Terrace Campus – a Road Building & Heavy Construction Foundation Program, and a Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice Program. Both courses meet the standards of the Industry Training Authority (ITA), the provincial agency that oversees industry and trades training and certifications.  The Road Building & Heavy Construction Foundation program is six weeks long. The training, which combines in-school training and worksite experience, is a pre-employment program for individuals who wish to enter the road building and heavy construction industry. Participants will receive the following certifications: Occupational First Aid Level 1,Transportation Endorsement, Traffic Control Flagging, WHMIS, and Transportation of Dangerous Goods.  The Road Building & Heavy Construction Foundation Program will run from Feb. 15 until Mar. 26, 2010. The course costs $900.  Read more.


NIC Continuing Education Offers Entrepreneur-oriented Marketing Series with Award-Winning Consultant
North Island College Media Release, February 2, 2010
In a slow economy, the last budget item a business should cut is marketing…or a business will ensure that it loses top-of-mind awareness.  But, some marketing tactics are “smarter” than others, and North Island College wants to help business owners market more wisely and cost-effectively in 2010. NIC’s Continuing Education department is again collaborating with Comox Valley marketing consultant, Carolyn Touhey, to present “Marketing on a Shoestring” – a series of courses that have proven very popular in previous semesters. NIC is offering day and evening sessions to accommodate business owners’ schedules. Read more.
 
College enrolments continue to climb
Okanagan College Media Release, Tuesday, February 02, 2010
Okanagan College continues to experience growing enrolments at each of its campuses and in many of its program areas.  January enrolment statistics show approximately 5.7 per cent more students – 5,504 – attending the College’s campuses than in January 2009. That represents an increase of 298 more students than the 5,206 registered in 2009.  The students are also taking more courses this semester than they did last year; course registrations are up 10.8 per cent overall from the previous year.  Read more.
 
North Island College to offer Dual Degree Program with Université Paris 13 Business Students to Benefit from International Opportunities
North Island College Media Release, Feb 2, 2010
Beginning September 2010, an innovative new program at North Island College will offer Business Administration students unique educational opportunities in International Business.  NIC President, Jan Lindsay and Michel Roux, Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Business at the Université Paris 13 recently signed an agreement to implement a dual degree program between the two institutions.  “This is an exciting opportunity for our students!” declares Nick Robinson, Business Administration Instructor at NIC. “Students typically come to NIC with a
focus on employability. The international experience that this program offers, coupled with the opportunity to study in French, will open many doors for our
students.”  Read more.
 
Kayfish will chair Okanagan College Board of Governors
Okanagan College Media Release, February 02, 2010
Lance Kayfish has been chosen as the new chair of Okanagan College’s Board of Governors. He was elected Tuesday at the Board’s regular meeting. The new vice-chair is Yvonne Pinder.

Kayfish has served on the College Board since 2007 and is a risk management expert with the City of Kelowna. He holds baccalaureate degrees in both commerce and political science. Before beginning his employment with the municipality in 2003, he served as a manager for the University of Calgary in both the Risk Management and Safety functions. His previous board experience includes a three-year term on the Alberta Student Finance Board and the University of Calgary’s Senate and General Faculties Council. He has also been actively involved in leadership roles for the Risk and Insurance Management Society, an international professional association.  Read more.
 
College has Kenya connections
College of the Rockies Media Release, Feb 1, 2010
College of the Rockies and Kimathi University College of Technology (KUCT) in Kenya’s Nyeri District have been working together for four years to develop a sustainable tourism program in order to increase the employability of KUCT graduates in the growing tourism industry.  Read more.
 
CNC celebrates Black History Month
College of New Caledonia Media Release, Feb 1, 2010
CNC and the Prince George African Heritage Society are teaming up to present a number of events during the 12th annual Black History Month Celebration in February.  The events are a way of educating the community about Black History Month by inviting guest speakers to talk about their experiences, contributions and some aspects of Black History.  “Events such as these are important to the community because they help bring people together from different cultures and beliefs and show people the diversity of the community,” said Black History Month organizer and CNC instructor George Kaweesi. “We are very excited about this event because it reminds us of how far we’ve come as a people and as a culture.” Read more.

 
In the News - January 2010

 
Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art unveils historic tribute pole bound for China
Northwest Community College Media Release, January 29, 2010
The Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art at Northwest Community College (NWCC) unveiled a Grizzly and Eagle totem pole to Elders, dignitaries and guests. At the Jan. 27 totem pole blessing ceremony, Elders laid their hands on the pole as Sam Lockerby and Bossy Bolton blessed the historic pole. The finished piece is destined for the Sichuan province of China and, in particular, to the indigenous Qiang people who were severely impacted by an earthquake in May 2008.

Approximately 32,000 Qiang live in Sichuan and their district is situated near Beichuan city. The city, its infrastructure and temples were completely destroyed. During a BC First Nations Forestry Council trade mission to China shortly after the earthquake, First Nations leaders were witness to the terrible devastation that occurred. As a result of this mission, the idea of carving a tribute pole was born. The Federal government and the Province of BC donated $8 million to aid relief efforts in Sichuan province. These funds supported the creation of an Elders centre and two schools. Significant rebuilding efforts are still underway.    Read more.
 
CNC’s funding to be cut by more than $1 million
College of New Caledonia Media Release, January 29, 2010
The College of New Caledonia is going to have significant financial challenges to resolve, board members heard Friday as more than $1 million in provincial funding cuts are expected for the next year.  Advanced Education and Labour Market Development Minister Moira Stilwell stated in a letter to the college that its Annual Capital Allowance (ACA) will be reduced in 2010/11 to $374,697, which is $603,938 less than the amount provided in 2009/10 and $1.1 million less than the 2008/09 allocation. ACA funding is used for the costs associated with facilities maintenance, repair, replacement and upgrading of building systems, such as lighting and heating.  Read more.
 
Employment Resource Centre Opens at North Island College Area Employers, NIC Students and Alumni to Benefit
North Island College Media Release, Jan 28, 2010
North Island College is pleased to announce the opening of Employment Resource Centres at its Campbell River and Comox Valley campuses.  “This is such an important service, not only for our students and alumni, but also for local employers,” states Treena Nadon, NIC’s new Employment Service Advisor.  Nadon, a Certified Career Development Practitioner with over 12 years of experience in the field, invites employers, students and alumni to explore the many services available.  Read more.
 
$1.9M Supportive Housing Opens In Vernon
M2 Presswire, Jan 28, 2010
Under One Roof, a $1.9-million new development, officially opened today to provide five apartments of affordable, supportive housing for people with developmental disabilities and low-income families and one condo for affordable homeownership, announced Eric Foster, MLA for Vernon-Monashee. 'Our government is committed to creating more affordable housing throughout B.C.,' said Foster. 'Many community partners have come together to build Under One Roof, an innovative development with a variety of supportive housing options available right here in Vernon.' The Province of British Columbia provided a $600,000 grant toward the capital cost of the project. The City of Vernon provided the land valued at $135,000.  Read more.
 
Operation Phoenix legacy project: VCC helps give a chance at a new life
Vancouver Community College Media Release,  January 27, 2010
Vancouver Community College has joined with the downtown community court and The Province newspaper in a project that organizers hope will help make a difference in the community, particularly the Downtown Eastside.  VCC -- one of three schools involved -- will provide education and training for six individuals referred through Judge Thomas Gove at the community court, where a problem-solving approach tries to address the health and social problems often underlying crime.  "Some of these folks would benefit from learning a trade that would lead to good employment," Gove says in The Province, which on Sunday announced the initiative in wrapping up its Project Phoenix series covering the Downtown Eastside.  It's a natural fit for the college and its programs, notes Deanna Rexe, VCC's interim vice-president of strategy and enrolment. Read more.
 
Busson joins Okanagan College Foundation Board
Okanagan College Media Release, Jan 26, 2010
Canada’s former top ranking RCMP member, Commissioner Beverley Busson, has joined the Okanagan College Foundation Board of Directors. As the first woman to hold the rank of RCMP Commissioner, Busson had an esteemed career with the force and has now retired near Salmon Arm. She joined the Okanagan College Foundation Board in March, where she lends her time and experience to furthering the success of Okanagan College students and increasing their access to education and training across the region. “I am truly honored to have the opportunity to volunteer on this Board, which acts in such positive ways to contribute to the community through the College,” said Busson.  Read more.

 
Successful ESL training expanded
Northern Lights College Media Release, Jan 25, 2010
More immigrants and refugees in communities across British Columbia will have access to free English language training programs with this year’s $2-million investment in the English as a Second Language Settlement Assistance Program, announced Moira Stilwell, Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development.  “Developing strong English language skills is the best way for new British Columbians to fully participate in all the social and economic opportunities that our province has to offer”, said Stilwell. “We will continue working with our public post-secondary institutions and our community partners to ensure ESL training is available in communities across the province.”  The English as a Second Language Settlement Assistance Program (ESLSAP) is an innovative way to provide access to language training to recent immigrants and refugees in regional and more remote communities. Funding allows for a co-ordinator to recruit and provide standardized training to volunteer tutors and match those tutors with immigrants who want to improve their English language skills. Tutoring is focused on the learner’s goals and functional language skills that can vary from reading a menu to functioning successfully in a workplace. Read more.
 
2nd Annual Rethink Scholarship Launched
Langara College Media Release, January 25, 2010
Rethink Communications and Langara College are once again offering an $18,000 scholarship to Langara College's two-year full-time Communication and Ideation (CID) program to aspiring art directors and designers. The CID program focuses on developing creative thinking to produce big ideas. The program is a modern holistic educational approach to the graphic design, art direction, advertising and creative industries. To enter the contest, submit a black hard cover sketchbook containing interesting ideas showcasing your creativity. Winner will be selected by Rethink according to the following criteria: clarity, relevance, fresh thinking, as well as quality of ideas, craft, and execution.  Read more.
 
RBC Donates $135,000 to Okanagan College campaign
Okanagan College Media Release, Jan. 25, 2010
The campaign to establish Okanagan College’s Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation received its largest donation to date with the announcement of a $135,000 commitment from RBC. RBC’s contribution will help realize the Okanagan College Foundation’s $5 million capital fundraising campaign to finance the development of the $28 million Centre of Excellence in Penticton, which is being designed and built to meet one of the most demanding set of environmental standards, the Living Building Challenge.  “It is exciting to be a part of such a unique and inspiring project,” said Karen Borring-Olsen, Regional Vice President RBC Royal Bank. “RBC is pleased to join the growing network of community-minded donors, both citizens and corporations, who share a vision for education, innovation and sustainable growth in the Okanagan.”  Read more.
 
NWCC students part of group project to improve health literacy
Northwest Community College Media Release, Jan 25, 2010
Two Northwest Community College (NWCC) students enrolled in a community-delivered program in the First Nations Village of Gitsegukla have finished working with a team from the Hazelton area on a project called “Improving Health Literacy in Communities.”  Essential Skills for Work (ESWK) students Gordon Howard and Evan Brown were part of an eight-person team that included their Program Coordinator Casey Forslund, two former NWCC students now at UNBC, plus two health care professionals and a literacy advocate from the Storytellers Foundation in Old Hazelton. The group was flown to Vancouver three times over the last eight months for “learning sessions” then back to the communities for “action periods” to implement its ideas and plans. The goal was to get literacy and health workers collaborating as it is now indisputably proven that literacy has a direct and powerful effect on personal health outcomes. “In the organizers words, the aim of the Health Literacy Collaborative is to work together to improve how healthcare professionals and patients access, understand, evaluate and communicate information in an office practice within a community,” says Forslund. “The project revolved around three main goals – building relationships, increasing understanding and partnering.”  Read more.
 
VCC training puts students in rural areas on a 'collision course' to early career
Vancouver Community College, Jan 25, 2010
High school students in the Okanagan and Victoria can now take a new flexible learning program from VCC in automotive collision repair online, allowing them to receive training closer to home and get a head start on their careers. VCC's entry-level program is open to Grade 11 and 12 students and begins in February. Students will receive online instruction over eight months and local automotive collision shops will provide the hands-on practical training -- offered through the ACE IT program, a partnership of VCC, Industry Training Authority and local schools. High school students in the Okanagan and Victoria can now take a new flexible learning program from VCC in automotive collision repair online, allowing them to receive training closer to home and get a head start on their careers. VCC's entry-level program is open to Grade 11 and 12 students and begins in February. Students will receive online instruction over eight months and local automotive collision shops will provide the hands-on practical training -- offered through the ACE IT program, a partnership of VCC, Industry Training Authority and local schools.  Read more.

 
Five public post-secondary institutions sign agreement
College Media Releases, Jan 24, 2010
The five public post-secondary institutions providing education and training to British Columbia’s Southern Interior are joining forces to collaborate on new training opportunities and services. Leaders from the College of the Rockies, Selkirk College, Okanagan College, University of British Columbia Okanagan and Thompson Rivers University recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that links the institutions to create better integration of the learning opportunities and services for citizens of the Southern Interior.  Together, the five institutions serve a population of more than 720,000 people in the interior, and collectively educated more than 73,000 students in 2008-09. Selkirk College accounted for over 12,000 students; almost 5,000 were registered in full time programs and another 7,000 enrolled in continuing education courses.  Read more.
 
$40,000 grant from province to help Valley newcomers improve their English skills
Comox Valley Echo, January 22, 2010
A $40,000 investment will help new immigrants and refugees in the Comox Valley improve their English language skills by giving them access to free one-on-one tutoring." Helping newcomers feel comfortable and become active in society benefits everyone in the community," says Comox Valley MLA Don McRae. "Programs like this really help people feel welcome, easing them into society." The Community Adult Literacy and Learning Society will receive a total of $40,000 in partnership with North Island College to deliver the English as a Second Language Settlement Assistance Program (ESLSAP) in the Comox Valley. The funding allows for a coordinator to recruit and train volunteer tutors and match those tutors with community members who want to improve their English language skills.  Read more.
 
College becomes Partner #50 with the East Kootenay Conservation Program
College of the Rockies Media Release, Jan 21, 2010
College of the Rockies and the East Kootenay Conservation Program have joined together to benefit conservation in the Kootenays. The College has the distinction of being the 50th organization to partner with the EKCP.  "We are very pleased to be working with the EKCP to help sustain a healthy environment in this special area of the world," said Dr. Cooper. "Our faculty, staff and students care very much about the water, the land and the things that live here and we recognize the importance of a healthy environment to a healthy economy. "This partnership also fits very well with our new Environmental Studies certificate program which offers a diverse education in environmentally-focused arts and sciences courses," said Dr. Cooper. "We also have a new Bachelor's degree in Sustainable Business Practices that we expect to offer as early as fall 2010."  Read more.
 
Grade 9 students get hands-on experience at NLC
Northern Lights College Media Release, Jan 21, 2010
More than 150 Grade 9 students from School District 59 converged on Northern Lights College on Jan. 13 for a YES-2-IT (Youth Exploring Skills to Industry Training) event.   YES-2-IT provides students with the opportunity to spend a half-day in their choice of two program areas available to secondary school students for Dual Credit study. The event was held at NLC’s Dawson Creek and South Peace campuses. World Pro chuckwagon driver and EnCana employee, Mark Sutherland, kicked off the day with a keynote challenge for the students to chase their aspirations, wherever they may lead. From there, students moved to programs that they pre-selected to have an interactive opportunity to see a trade or vocation in action. Read more.
 
College of the Rockies and Thompson Rivers University sign Dual Admission Agreement
College of the Rockies Media Release, Jan 21, 2010
College of the Rockies and Thompson Rivers University (TRU) in Kamloops are pleased to announce the signing of a Dual Admission Agreement that gives COTR students the ability to move seamlessly from the college to the university.  This means that COTR students in University Transfer studies in Arts, Science or Business Administration can now apply for dual admission directly into the TRU Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Business Administration degree programs at the same they apply to enter the college, or in the following semesters of their first or second year at COTR.  Read more.
 
Okanagan College joins Project Hero
Okanagan College Media Release, Jan 19, 2010
Okanagan College is joining a host of Canadian colleges and universities participating in a scholarship program created to help the dependents of Canadian Forces personnel killed in action since 2002. The College has announced that it will join Project Hero, which was started a year ago by Kevin Reed and Retired General Rick Hillier.  Reed is Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel of the 31 Brigade, Service Units and Chairman of Equity Transfer and Trust Company.  Okanagan College will join 38 other institutions in the country offering to help the eligible dependents by helping cover the cost of tuition.   Read more.
 
NIC and Vancouver Island University sign Bilateral Agreement
North Island College Media Release, Jan 19, 2010
North Island College and Vancouver Island University signed a partnership agreement today that will see both institutions working together to better serve the residents of the north Vancouver Island region.  The Bilateral Agreement will enhance the capacity of both institutions through increased collaborative programming, seamless transfer arrangements, and greater opportunity for collaborative research initiatives and faculty professional development. According to NIC’s President, Dr. Jan Lindsay, one of the immediate outcomes of the Agreement is the establishment of a dual admission process to facilitate the success of students from the North Island College region who wish to complete their studies at VIU.   Read more.
 
"Christmas in January" serves up hundreds of smiles in the Downtown Eastside
Vancouver Community College Media Release, Jan 18, 2010
It was a day more than 1,500 people were looking forward to this year. Saturday, January 16 marked VCC's 11th annual 'Christmas in January' lunch for people in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside. They were served a complete holiday feast with all the trimmings: turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and much more.  People started lining up at the downtown campus cafeteria early. By the time the doors opened at 10:45 a.m., a line of 700 people stretched throughout the downtown campus.  "This year, we fed more than 1,500 people with the help of 127 enthusiastic volunteers from the college and our generous sponsors," says Les Patterson, VCC manager of food services.  Read more.
 
University of Victoria students at Selkirk College are influencing change with regards to health care practices in our local communities.
Selkirk College Media Release, Jan 15, 2010
Towards the end of last semester, the fourth year Nursing2 students held a Mini Conference at the college showcasing twenty “Influencing Change” projects. The students worked with community partners in various projects that examined what is happening in our community with regards to health care practices and included topics such as emergency room overcrowding, the nursing shortage, workplace health and support for respiratory emergencies in rural care settings. Read more.
 
B.C. promises HST rebates for schools, hospitals; Two months after saying further breaks on sales tax were unlikely, Finance Minister makes $235- million pledge of relief
The Globe And Mail, Fri Jan 15  2010
The B.C. government has retreated - again - on the incoming harmonized sales tax, promising an estimated $235-million worth of rebates to public schools and hospitals. Finance Minister Colin Hansen announced the policy change yesterday, two months after he gave up $80-million worth of tax income to the new-home- construction sector. At that time, he suggested the chances of further tax breaks on the HST were unlikely, given the province's record deficit. Yesterday, he said he had always intended to work out some kind of relief for the province's publicly funded institutions, including
universities and colleges.  Read more.
 
Schools, hospitals catch HST break; B.C. to hand out millions in rebates to spare institutions from tax hits
Times Colonist (Victoria) Fri, Jan 15  2010 
School boards, universities and hospitals appear to have dodged the harmonized sales tax bullet with the B.C. government's announcement of a rebate program. The goal of the rebates, estimated to total between $150 million and $200 million annually, is to ensure such public bodies won't be paying any more tax when the 12 per cent HST is implemented in July. The government announced that those sectors -- which had been bracing for a hit to the bottom line estimated to be as much as $200 million annually -- would receive partial rebates of the provincial portion of the HST.  Read more.
 
CNC instructor unveils Olympic art in Vancouver today
College of New Caledonia Media Release, Jan 15, 2010
A CNC Fine Arts and New Media instructor has been commissioned by Coca-Cola to do a piece for the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. Kim Stewart is unveiling her unique, artistic Coke bottle today (Jan. 14) in Vancouver. Stewart’s interpretation of the Coke bottle is a six-foot tall fibreglass piece painted in red and white with black ravens travelling up and through a bubbly, floral world. It’s illuminated by a solar panel in its interior.  “It’s the idea of the Metis culture caught between the First Nations and Caucasian people. It’s a refinement process. The Metis didn’t fit in, but now we do and we have found our
place in Canada,” said Stewart, who is Metis. Read more.
 
HSBC supports Aboriginal students at Douglas College with new $30,000 donation - HSBC Aboriginal Bursary Endowment Fund to total $90,000
Douglas College media Release, Jan 14, 2010
Aboriginal students at Douglas College received an extra boost recentlywhen HSBC Bank Canada made an additional gift to increase its existing HSBC Aboriginal Bursary Fund. HSBC Bank Canada will donate $30,000 over three years to bring the Bursary Fund up to $90,000 by 2011. “We are very pleased to support Aboriginal students at Douglas College through the HSBC Aboriginal Bursary Fund,” said Matthew Bosrock, Deputy CEO, HSBC Bank Canada. “HSBC believes access to education is important in helping young people to realize their full potential, which is why we fund bursaries and scholarships at post-secondary institutions across Canada.”   Read more.

 
Douglas College gets access to federal research funds
Douglas College Media Release, Jan 13, 2010
Expect to see more research come out of Douglas College, now that it is eligible to compete for and administer funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC).  NSERC, with an annual budget greater than $1B, promotes and supports ‘discovery research’ and encourages Canadian companies to participate and invest in post secondary research projects. Achieving NSERC eligibility status is a very significant step for Douglas College, says Dean of Science and Technology Thor Borgford.  “It recognizes the enormous potential that Douglas College and its faculty have to contribute to the prosperity of Canada through research and innovation. It gives my faculty the opportunity to apply for NSERC funding and sets the stage for the College to develop research programs in pure and applied sciences and engineering,” says Borgford.  Read more.
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The 9th annual World Community Film Festival
Langara College Event Update, Jan 12, 2010
CoDevelopment Canada and Langara College present the 9th annual World Community Film Festival.  The film festival, which runs at, and is in partnership with, Langara College, brings together organizations and individuals who are committed to social justice issues. The festival also hosts the 4th annual Langara Student Film Festival. Read more.
 
The Face of Transformation - A summer gathering to decolonize post secondary education May 5 - 8
Northwest Community College, Preliminary Announcement, Jan 12, 2010
Northwest Community College is on a transformative journey to indigenize the culture and practice of how it provides education in Northwest British Columbia.  This involves learning from Aboriginal values and needs and taking direction for the communities. Read more.
 
The Pavilion Grand Opening - Ideas and Integrities: Jan 14
Langara College Event Update, Jan 12, 2010
The Langara College Centre for Art in Public Spaces invites you to the grand opening of The Pavilion, a project by current Artist in Residence Holly Ward. On January 14, 2010, from 4-8pm, students, artists and the general public are invited to its first exhibition, Ideas and Integrities: A Utopian Library. The exhibition will take place inside The Pavilion dome located on the front lawn of Langara College. Ideas and Integrities: A Utopian Library features the utopian literature collection of Denman Island anarchist poet and scholar Ron Sakolsky. Read more.
 
Aboriginal ancestry to be recognized as qualification at CNC
College of New Caledonia Media Release, Jan 8, 2010
CNC has received approval from the B.C. Human Rights Tribunal to implement a special program allowing the college to recognize Aboriginal ancestry as a bona fide employment qualification for specific positions. The three areas where Aboriginal ancestry can be identified as a qualification are: employees providing direct operational, instructional or administrative service to primarily Aboriginal students; employees instructing courses where content is primarily Aboriginal and employees offering services and/or programs funded through Aboriginal-specific funding services. “CNC has demonstrated to Aboriginal communities, especially students, that they are committed to collaborative and equitable partnerships that benefit both partners,” said Marlene Erickson, CNC’s Manager of Aboriginal Student Services and Senior Policy Advisor for Aboriginal Education and Services. Read more.
 
Culinary Arts pilot project on Haida Gwaii a success story
Northwest Community College Media Release, Jan 8, 2010
Northwest Community College’s (NWCC) continued relationship with Old Massett Village Council enabled a first year Culinary Arts Program and Level 2 Professional Cook program to be offered in the community of Old Massett from November 2008 to December 2009.
Prior to classes starting in 2008, NWCC worked with the community to help redesign the kitchen in the Old Massett Community Hall. Renovations took place over the summer and into the fall with NWCC students being the first cooks in the new kitchen starting January 2009. Darlene Godfrey was the instructor and she stayed in Old Massett over the summer 2009 and supervised students so they could obtain apprentice hours toward Red Seal certification. Read more.
 
Selkirk College Explores Availability of ECCE Training in Kaslo
Selkirk College Media Release, Jan 6, 2010
Several members of Selkirk College, including Rhonda Schmitz, Chair of the School of Health and Human Services and Taya Whitehead, Lead Instructor of Early Childhood Care and Education4 (ECCE), met with interested community members of Kaslo to provide information and answer questions regarding the local availability of ECCE training.
Currently, Selkirk College offers 6 of the 16 courses required to complete a certificate in Early Childhood Care and Education in an online format. This certificate is geared for individuals interested in becoming Licensed Early Childhood Educators. The college is currently exploring partnership opportunities with Northern Lights College to offer the entire ECCE certificate in an online format.  Read more.
 
North Island College is excited to announce that construction has begun on its new Trades Training facility at the Comox Valley campus.
North Island College Media Release, Jan 6, 2010
Excavators began their work to prepare the building site on January 4th, 2010. Construction of the 2,152 square metres, or 23,164 square feet, facility is scheduled to be complete and ready for occupancy by the end of the year, with classes scheduled to begin January 2011. The skills development and trades training centre will house carpentry and multi-purpose workshops, a covered open work area, washroom and offices, and three trades training classrooms, with an additional unfinished space that can remain flexible for future expansion. Read more.
 
New ESL Learning Centre opens in Mt. Pleasant for adult learners
Vancouver Community College Media Release, Jan 6, 2010
VCC is opening an ESL Learning Centre at the new library in Mt. Pleasant on Monday, Jan. 11. Through a partnership with the Vancouver Public Library, VCC provides adult ESL learners with a free drop-in program supported by tutors who assess and help students with their self-study lessons. The new Mt. Pleasant community centre, 1 Kingsway, replaces the previous 35-year-old facility, where VCC had offered its ESL Learning Centre services since the 1980s. The newly built 30,750 square foot community centre houses a library, community centre and day care. Read more.
 
College of the Rockies Granted Education Quality Assurance designation
College of the Rockies Media Release, Jan 5, 2010
The British Columbia Council for International Education (BCCIE) has accepted College of the Rockies as a member in good standing of Canada’s first and only provincial seal of quality for post-secondary education – the Education Quality Assurance (EQA) program. EQA This Education Quality Assurance logo has been developed for BC post-secondary institutions meeting the government's criteria for delivering quality education. EQA is a quality assurance designation that identifies and promotes public and private post-secondary institutions that have met or exceeded government-recognized quality assurance standards and consumer protection mechanisms. It is a voluntary designation available to BC public and private post-secondary institutions and is administered on the government's behalf by BCCIE. The Ministry of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development sets all EQA policies, including eligibility requirements for EQA. Read more.
 
Selkirk International Impacts Economy
Selkirk College Media Release, Jan 5, 2010
Selkirk College International students, Mariko Inoue, Yamei Yang and Haruka Yuge of Japan, are enjoying their post-secondary experience at the Castlegar Campus. Recently, the Honourable Stockwell Day, Minister of International Trade, released an important study that demonstrates how international students contribute significantly to Canada’s economy.
The report, The Economic Impact of International Education in Canada2, contains some remarkable numbers, beginning with $6.5 billion—the total amount spent by the 178,000 international students in Canada last year. This figure is greater than the values of the export of coal and coniferous lumber—two of our traditionally largest export sectors. Read more.
 
COTR student heading for Olympics
College of the Rockies Media Release, Jan 4, 2010
A College of the Rockies student will be taking part in the 2010 Olympics, but not as an athlete. Jordan Abrey, a graduate of the Culinary Arts - Professional Cook Training program, has been hired by Whistler Cooks Catering to help provide meals for coaches and athletes at Whistler-Blackcomb during the Olympic Games in February. He'll be working from February 5 to 28 and may also work at the Paralympics in March. "I'm very excited and really looking forward to this opportunity," Abrey said. Abrey graduated from the Culinary Arts program Dec. 18 with his Cook 1 certificate and has three more years in apprenticeship to achieve his Red Seal inter-provincial certification. This involves three years employment and two more six-week training periods at College of the Rockies. He is an ACE IT student from Mount Baker Secondary School, which means he started his post-secondary training at COTR while still attending Mount Baker, gaining both secondary school and college credits at the same time. Read more.

 
In the News - December 2009 

2009: a very busy year at NLC
Dawson Creek Daily News, Tue Dec 29  2009
More than $10 million in funding from the Knowledge Infrastructure Program for two construction projects at the Dawson Creek Campus have highlighted one of the busiest years at Northern Lights College in its 34-year history. NLC received $2.5 million in April, followed by an additional $7.8 million in August in separate joint announcements by the Federal and Provincial governments. Read more.
 
Mechanic’s legacy to carry on through College apprentices
Okanagan College Media Release, Dec 24, 2009
The legacy of Hermann Koessler’s passion for trades will carry on through students at Okanagan College thanks to a generous donation made in his memory.  Three years after her husband’s death, Ute Koessler made the difficult but emotionally rewarding decision to donate his tools to students at Okanagan College, despite being offered thousands of dollars for the valuable collection.  “The last thing Hermann said to me was ‘I have so much knowledge to give, I wish young people would want to be tradespeople,’” she said. “My husband was so skilled and willing to teach people, he was so proud to be a tradesperson. I know he would be honored to have his tools used by so many learning the trades.”  Koessler’s lifetime worth of tools, valued at more than $87,000, were hand delivered by his friend Mike Goodmurphy and his wife Ute, who took the time to speak to a group of entry-level Automotive Service Technician students at Okanagan College; telling them about Hermann’s life, his work and his passion for their chosen field. Read more.
 
Nursing a change; Innovative B.C. program aims to change the way Bangladeshi nurses are trained - and how they do their work
The Globe and Mail, Thu Dec 24  2009
With a population of 156 million jammed onto a land mass not much bigger than New York state, Bangladesh is known for crowding, dire poverty and routine floods, as well as widespread government corruption. Still, a group of British Columbia volunteers and a Bangladeshi college have over the past six years managed to develop an innovative nurse-education program that matches Canadian instructors with Bangladeshi students. The Bangladesh Health Project recently turned out its first batch of graduates and is now focused on nurturing home-grown instructors. "These students will be able to change the way nursing is seen and how it does its work in Bangladesh," says Melodie Hull, a nursing instructor at B.C.'s College of the Rockies who volunteered with the program this past summer. "They will really be able to change the profession."  Read more.
 
Award-winning Culinary arts student hits the shelves with debut cookbook
Okanagan College Media Release, Dec 22, 2009
Second-year Okanagan College Culinary Arts Apprentice David Colombe has a new challenge – marketing his debut cookbook, Colombe’s Cooking in Your Kitchen. The affable fan of great cooking and local ingredients came to media attention this year when he won grand prize in the Florida Tomato Committee’s 20th Annual Best of the Best Recipe Contest for his creation, Fire Roasted Florida Tomato Gumbo soup. The $2,000 in prize money from that contest fueled his next endeavour – publishing a cookbook. Now, the book’s a reality and he’s engaged in marketing it when he’s not toiling at one of the best restaurants in the Okanagan, RauDZ and taking classes toward his Red Seal certification. (And, as if that’s not enough, Colombe also contributes his time and expertise to the Community Kitchen program in Vernon that supports individuals to use their resources more effectively t feed their families on a limited budget.) Read more.
 
Video contest a double-win for student
Camosun Media Release, Dec 21, 2009
Camosun College continuing education student, Patrick O’Keeffe, produced award-winning videos two years in a row. O’Keeffe graduated from Camosun’s Web Design certificate program last year. His vision and skills earned him third place in the 2008 inaugural MyCamosun video contest. Late this fall, O’Keeffe was named third prize winner ($250 cash prize) for MyCamosun 2009.In the 2008 video, O’Keeffe focused on his personal experience as a 40-year-old returning to school, and what that felt like. This year, he trained his camera on others, to create a video that reflects a myriad of Camosun experiences. Read more.

An embarrassingly simple solution: Hire youth; With lack of volunteers from firms, Vanoc officials came up with idea of taking on post-secondary students and getting companies to sponsor them
The Vancouver Sun, Sat 19 Dec 2009
Faced with a cash crunch last summer, Vancouver's Olympic organizers begged the B.C. government and corporations to lend them more staff. But with the recession, everybody's stretched and Vanoc didn't come close to borrowing the 1,500 employees it needs. That posed a huge problem, especially for Gord Macatee, who's in charge of public-sector secondments. Seven weeks ago, he came up with a solution. " I woke up at 3 a.m. and bumped my head on the ceiling with the thought that the Games are about youth and they're once in a lifetime, so why don't we get students?"  Read more.
 
Fort Nelson learners receive Nexen awards
Northern Lights College Media Release, Dec 18, 2009
Two learners from the Fort Nelson Campus of Northern Lights College received Nexen Aboriginal Education Awards on Dec. 16.Matthew Badine and Laurelle Dettieh, learners in the Oil and Gas Field Operations program in Fort Nelson, each received a $2,000 award from Lloyd Martell of Nexen.
Applicants for the Nexen award must be of Aboriginal ancestry; enrolled full-time in a recognized post-secondary institution; pursuing studies relevant to the oil and gas industry; and demonstrate academic achievement and community leadership. Applicants must also submit two letters of reference, and a one-page essay describing their academic achievements, leadership activities in the community, and career aspirations.  Read more.
 
NWCC helps unemployed workers access training
NWCC News Release, Dec 17, 2009
By easing access to post-secondary training, a new program at Northwest Community College (NWCC),the Employment Skills Access (ESA) program, aims to help unemployed individuals enter or return to the workforce. 
The program will provide tuition for eligible participants to take any course or program at NWCC that begins before March 31, 2010 and finishes by August 31, 2010. Examples include pre-requisite courses needed for other programs; trades foundation and apprenticeship programs such as carpentry and welding; university credit courses such as early childhood education and business administration; and Continuing Education & Industry Training courses such as Prospector Training, Occupational First Aid, and Wilderness Guiding and Wrangling.  Read more.
 
Partnership helps First Nations students learn trades
Comox Valley Echo,Dec 15  2009
A new partnership is helping 16 First Nations students from Comox and Campbell River get an education at North Island College. Those students are enrolled in the Residential Building Maintenance Worker program, which focuses on eight trades -- carpentry, electrical, roofing, drywall finishing, floor laying, plumbing, refrigeration mechanics and painting. "The students are dedicated, hard workers who are learning through hands-on experience,"said
instructor Bill Lucas. "It's a tough program with rigorous exams and I believe these students are up to the challenge." The initiative is a partnership between BC Hydro, the BC Construction Association, North Island Collage and five local First Nations. Read more.
 
B.C. secondary students ranked among best
The Daily News (Prince Rupert), Tue Dec 15  2009  
Secondary students in British Columbia writing post-secondary level exams placed among the very best in North America according to the latest Advanced Placement (AP) exam results, Advanced Education and Labour Market Development Minister Moira Stilwell announced recently "For the fifth year in a row, B.C. students outperformed the rest of Canada and the United States on these exams overall," said Stilwell. "More than 5,000 B.C. students wrote nearly 8,000 exams, demonstrating their overall excellence in a wide variety of subjects." Read more.
 
More than $12,000 in tuition credits up for grabs in talent contest
Douglas College Website, Dec 14, 2009
Douglas College is giving three local students the chance to win $4,000 each in tuition credits as part of Doug’s Got Talent, a video talent contest launched this month. Current and future Douglas students are invited to create a two-minute video of their talent for the chance to win one of the three top prizes of a year’s tuition, plus other prizes.  “Douglas students are diverse, talented and hard-working. Their desire to succeed, their passion and their curiosity inspire everyone who teaches and works here,” says Scott McAlpine, President of Douglas College.“The Doug’s Got Talent video contest puts these talented students front and centre. "  Read more.
 
A legacy in the making for community college
The Daily News (Prince Rupert), Fri Dec 11  2009
Wood carver Gerald Stewart looks over a totem pole he's helping carve for the Northwest Community College's front lawn. The pole was commission by the school and Stewart said he and master carver, Henry Green, expect to have it ready by February. The results of their work will soon be a totem displayed on the front lawn of Northwest Community College's Prince Rupert campus. In a non-descript building within the Kaien Rd industrial park,Tsimshian carvers Henry Green and Gerald Stewart are hammering and sawing away on a western red cedar. The totem pole was commissioned by the school and is fashioned in the NiesDoix (Killer Whale) tradition. It will pay respect to the Gitwailgyoats tribe, whose territory much of Prince Rupert is built on. Read more.

 
VCC opens its new Aboriginal gathering space
Vancouver Community Media release, Dec 9, 2009
Sights, sounds and tastes of Aboriginal culture were part of a celebration that marked the official opening of the new Aboriginal gathering space today at Vancouver Community College.  The new gathering space is a supportive place allowing students to study, access computers and meet with Aboriginal Elders and staff - designed to help reach their educational goals.  "I am so grateful for the gathering space at VCC," says Elder Doris Fox. "By having a safe place for students where Elders are available, they get the familial support they would get in their communities. It's like a part of their own community right here at VCC and it motivates them to stay in school."  Read more.
 
Selkirk gets cash to help unemployed
Castlegar News Tue Dec 8  2009
Selkirk College is one of 20 colleges and universities in B.C. that will share an investment of $5.2 million from the provincial government towards skills training for the unemployed. "We are very happy about the funding," said Vi Kalesnikoff, dean of community, corporate and international development. "It will give us the ability to support a number of individuals in making significant changes in their lives." Read more.
 
Graduate's art part of Olympics
The Daily News (Prince Rupert), Fri Dec 4  2009
Kaska/Tlingit artist Dean Heron, a graduate of the First Nations Fine Arts Diploma program at NWCC, is featured in a new book of Aboriginal art by Canadian artists that will be displayed during the upcoming Vancouver 2010 Winter Games. Northwest Community College (NWCC) and Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art alumnus Dean Heron and his artwork are featured in a newly-published book of Aboriginal art inspired by the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in Vancouver. Read more.
 
Camosun relights B.C. Games torch
Oak Bay News, Thu Dec 3  2009
Greener version of the Games' symbol created. Students, graduates and faculty in Camosun College's engineering department were tasked earlier this year with making the B.C. Games torch greener. As it stood for 20 years, the flame ran on natural gas for 100 days prior to the opening of both the summer and winter games. Read more.
 
Aviation course offered at CNC
Quesnel Cariboo Observer, Thu Dec 3  2009
A feasibility study is complete and the two-year diploma flight training program at CNC's Nechako campus is ready for its next stage of clearance. The proposed program, which will be based in Vanderhoof, is different than other diplomas tied to commercial pilot training," project planner with the Vanderhoof campus Susan Mooney said. "It's geared for success in the North," she said.  Read more.
 
Students learn at Disney World
The Record (New Westminster), Dec 2  2009
Two Douglas College students are headed for sunnier climes at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. Bailey Chambers and Damian Craig are the first post-secondary students from B.C. to be selected for six-month internships through an academic exchange program with the University of California Riverside and the Walt Disney World Resort. They leave the Lower Mainland in mid-January. Read more.

 
New Health Care Assistant program at COTR Fernie campus
Dec 2  2009, The Daily Townsman (Cranbrook)
The Province is investing $62,500 to support the delivery of a health care assistant program at the College of the Rockies' Fernie campus, announced Bill Bennett, MLA for Kootenay East. "The College of the Rockies is an integral part of the Fernie community, and this program will offer new opportunities to local students," said Bennett. Read more.

 
82 New Seats Improve Access for Rural Health
Ministry of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development press release, December 1, 2009
The Province is investing $614,385 at public post-secondary institutions in six rural communities to train 82 health care assistants across B.C., announced Moira Stilwell, Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development.

“These new seats will help build on our initiatives to boost the rural workforce in the health care sector, making sure all British Columbians have access to top-notch services when they’re needed,” said Stilwell. “We’re also making sure students have more access closer to home to programs they need to fulfil their potential and fully participate in the economy.” Read more.

 
Vancouver Community College Joins Software Certification Program
Market Wire, Dec 1  2009
OneMove Technologies Inc. ("OneMove" or the "Company") (TSX VENTURE:OM), which provides a leading web-based real estate transaction platform, today announces it has expanded its econveyance certification training program to include students enrolled in the legal assistant course at Vancouver Community College ("VCC"). Read more.

In the News - November 2009


Sutherland steps down from CNC board
Prince George Free Press, Fri Nov 27  2009
Chair Bruce Sutherland told the College of New Caledonia board Friday during its regularly scheduled meeting that he will be stepping down from his position in January, so he can spend more time concentrating on his own business. The owner of WolfTek Industries said with the College of New Caledonia in such great shape with enrolment, increased programs and two new buildings on the way, now was a good time for him to hand things over to a new chair. "I am stepping down sooner than I wanted to, but one has to do TCB, or taking care of business, as I call it," said Sutherland, who became a CNC board member in April 2006, and served as the vice-chair until April 2007, when he was elected board chair. Read more.
 
Air Canada's enRoute magazine highlights VCC aboriginal culinary arts
Vancouver Community College website, November 27, 2009
More exposure for VCC's aboriginal culinary arts training: Air Canada's enRoute in-flight magazine in November included mention of the innovative program as part of its special food issue.  EnRoute highlighted aboriginal culinary fare from Australia and New Zealand to South Africa, Ontario and British Columbia -- noting VCC's program -- sharing a feast of indigenous cuisine with its international readership.

VCC's aboriginal culinary arts program -- the first in Canada -- was developed in collaboration with the Four Host First Nations, and runs as part of the college's Vancouver Culinary Institute. Read more.
 
College student heading for 2010 Paralympic Games
College of the Rockies website, November 2009
College student heading for 2010 Paralympic Games ~Luke Donovan, a Marketing student in the Business Administration program and Canadian Para-Alpine Ski Team member, has found the right fit with COTRs location, program, and supportive atmosphere. ~

Originally from Dalhousie, New Brunswick and Morell, PEI he chose COTR because it fit with his training and educational goals. "I was a student in Saint Mary's University in Halifax, Nova Scotia and made the move to BC to pursue Alpine Skiing. After two years in BC, living in Vernon and then Kimberley, I was looking for a school that would be functional with my career during and after sport. I ski for the Canadian Para-Alpine Ski Team and the sport takes a lot of commitment with travel, training and just living the life of an athlete with a physical disability. College of the Rockies provided the education, Kimberley Alpine Ski Resort provided the training facility and with the airport being so close - it just was the right decision."  Read more.
 
Freda Diesing School honoured for its work
Northwest Community College website, November 25, 2009
The Terrace & District Chamber of Commerce presented its annual Business Excellence Awards Nov. 21 and Northwest Community College’s (NWCC) Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art was chosen the 2009 Contributor to the Arts Award winner.The honour caps a busy and rewarding year for the School, its students and instructors. Program coordinator and instructor Stan Bevan says being recognized by the business community shows the School is effectively connecting with the community at large.“This award enhances the reputation of the Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art,” said Bevan. “It reinforces what the students and the College have done for the program and recognizes its critical role in developing First Nations artists in Terrace.”

The School, opened in 2006 and named after the late Haida artist and carver Freda Diesing, celebrated its third graduating class with its yearly student exhibit this past spring. Read more.
 
"My Camosun" video contest winners
Camosun website, November 25, 2009
Camosun College today announced the winning entries in the second annual "My Camosun" video contest, which challenged local filmmakers and amateur videographers to create a one-minute video in any style on the theme, "My Camosun". The contest was open to everyone, including current and future students, staff, faculty, alumni, community partners, friends and neighbours. Read more.
 
Northern Lights College; B.C.'s energy college
The Edmonton Journal, Sun 22 Nov 2009
A t Northern Lights College (NLC), this is more than a slogan -it is a commitment! Two exciting program areas drive this commitment: oil and gas, and clean energy technologies. NLC is the Centre of Excellence for Oil and Gas in British Columbia, with programming based in the Jim Kassen Industry Training Centre at the Fort St. John Campus. To fulfill this key provincial role, NLC trains learners to work in the oil and gas industry. Curriculum is developed in consultation with industry experts, ensuring learners are taught exactly what they need to know to start a career. Read more.
 
CNC auto repair class gets tool donation
Bernice Trick, Prince George Citizen, Sat Nov 21  2009
The new Auto Collision Repair Technician program at College of New Caledonia received a big boost recently with five roller tool cabinets full of tools. The donation, valued at about $5,000 from the Automotive Retailers Association, arrived on the first day of the program, enabling students to help unload them. "This is just huge," said Michelle Rolls, owner of Queensway Auto Body, who also serves as the northern representative for the ARA. "We need to grow these tradesmen in the North. It's realfor Prince George."  Read more.
 
New Langara College buildings officially open Friday, November 20, 2009
Langara Website, Fri Nov 20  2009
Langara College celebrated the Official Opening of the Students’ Union Building (SUB) and ‘C’ Building with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and tours of the new facilities, Friday, November 20.

The event opened with a performance by a group of Langara’s Studio 58 students and an aboriginal prayer by Musqueam Elder, Larry Grant. Langara College Board Chair David Chiang and President David Ross welcomed several guests, including Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development, Dr. Moira Stilwell, and Abbotsford Member of Parliament, Ed Fast. Read more.
 
College Breaks Ground for $28M Centre of Excellence
Ministry of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development, Press Release Industry Canada, November 20, 2009
Construction is set to begin on Okanagan College’s new $28-million Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation following the official groundbreaking by provincial, federal and college representatives. The project will create up to 179 direct jobs. “The investment in Okanagan College will provide a significant economic stimulus to our community and will create jobs in this region,” said Stockwell Day, Minister of International Trade and MP for Okanagan-Coquihalla. “Our government is investing in innovation to create jobs, to help our economy recover quickly and to improve the quality of life for Canadians.  Young people and older citizens in increased numbers will benefit from the ongoing excellence of Okanagan College.” Read more.
 
B.C. develops quality seal for post-secondary institutions
Janet Steffenhagen, The Vancouver Sun, Wed 18 Nov 2009
British Columbia has developed a quality-assurance seal for post-secondary institutions that's intended to help students choose reputable schools. The seal, promised two years ago after B.C.'s reputation was damaged by some unscrupulous private operators, was announced Tuesday by Advanced Education Minister Moira Stilwell and is available immediately for interested institutions. Read more.
 
Douglas College poet wins Governor General’s Award
Douglas College website, November 17, 2009
David Zieroth, long-time instructor in the Creative Writing Department at Douglas College, has won the Governor General’s Award for English-language poetry it was announced in Montreal, November 17th. Zieroth’s book, The Fly in Autumn, (Harbour Publishing) was chosen by a national panel as the best work of its kind this year.

The Governor General's Award  is administered and promoted by the Canada Council for the Arts and is Canada’s oldest and most prestigious award for English- and French-language Canadian literature. The award is worth $25,000 and the publisher of each winning book receives $3,000 to support promotional activities.  Read more.
 
New NIC president shares vision with supporters
Lindsay Chung, Comox Valley Record, Tues November 17, 2009
Dr. Jan Lindsay is passionate about education and optimistic about North Island College. The college's new president shared that optimism with college supporters during a North Island College (NIC) Foundation breakfast reception Thursday at the Old House Restaurant. "I'm very excited to be moving here to the Courtenay area and being at North Island College," she said. "I realize this is a tremendous honour. The college means a lot to the community and the communities it serves." Read more.
 
GIS: A hot field of study - From crime prevention to climate change, it's the fine art of interactive maps
Cathryn Atkinson, The Globe and Mail, Nov. 16, 2009 04:14 PM EDT
At B.C.'s Selkirk Community College in the tiny Kootenay community of Castlegar, students from a multiplicity of academic backgrounds are reinventing a military mapping technology for peaceful purposes.

The college's Geospatial Research Centre, which opened in 2004, has become a leading Canadian research centre in Geographic Information Systems, or GIS, a mapping and data system which creates multi-layered geospatial pages of information to specific areas to allow government, business and industry to quickly and accurately gauge everything to the flora and fauna found on a mountainside, to the demographics and crime statistics of an urban setting.  Read more.
 
VCC board appoints Kathy Kinloch as the college's new president
Vancouver Community College website, November 4, 2009
Vancouver Community College's board has appointed Kathy Kinloch as the college's new president, chair Don Fairbairn announced today.  Kathy Kinloch named Vancouver Community College's new president.

Kinloch joins VCC with extensive experience including post-secondary education, government and the health-care sector, and comes to the college from her current role as dean of health sciences at the B.C. Institute of Technology, a position she has held since 2007. She takes up her new role at VCC on March 15.Read more.



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