A Magazine for Alumni and Friends of Mohawk College

Mohawk Diploma Fall 2004 OPENSOPENS DOORSDOORS (&(& WINDOWS)WINDOWS)

Peter Rakoczy, Mohawk Alumnus and GM of Worldwide Microsoft Consulting Services Strategy shares some ‘Words of Wisdom’

Publications Mail Agreement 40065780 ALSO INSIDE: Movin’ On Up ~ Turn Up the Heat ~ Life of the Party

FEATURES

O N T H E COVER 24 WORDS TO LIVE BY Peter Rakoczy’s Mohawk diploma helped him open doors to become one of the top players in Microsoft’s global empire. In this exclusive interview with In Touch he shares some words of wisdom about the secrets of his success. BY KATE SCHOOLEY

LIFE OF THE PARTY 16 Mohawk grad Doug Dreher’s career has blown-up big time. DEPARTMENTS As General Manager of the Pioneer Baloon Company the Welcoming Words...... 4 decision to go to Mohawk inflated his career opportunities Alumni News...... 6 and left him flying high. BY K. L. SCHMIDT Upcoming Events ...... 8 Alumni Varsity ...... 9 STRATEGY FOR SUCCESS Around Campus ...... 10 Fundraising Update ...... 14 22 Mohawk President MaryLynn West-Moynes shares her Strategic Plan for keeping Mohawk College at the forefront Keeping In Touch ...... 36 of education in Ontario. BY KATE SCHOOLEY Looking Back ...... 38 MOVIN’ ON UP 28 Recent renovations to the Mohawk Student Association ALSO INSIDE aims to increase visibilty of the services the MSA offers MOHAWK IN MEMORIAM 35 to students. BY LYNN JAMES A Fighter, A Friend Mohawk College remembers TURN UP THE HEAT the many contributions that 32 Meet Mohawk Alumnus Chris Dennis, who used his Mohawk Alumnus, and local Mohawk Diploma to help build his family’s business into politician Dominic Agostino a leading-edge supplier of heat-treat services. made to his community, BY ANGUS GILLESPIE province and country.

MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 3 welcoming WORDS

from the Alumni Association President... An Education ...and so much more Alumni Association President Morgan Seele s I write this message, summer conclude that their time at Mohawk your experience at Mohawk beneficial is still here but September, the was wasted. With a little honest to you? 2) Couldn’t other people Atraditional “back to school” thought, I think both they and you benefit from that same experience? season, is almost upon us and will will discover that over the long term 3) How often do you share this be by the time you receive this. For they benefited from much more than experience and recommend Mohawk recent graduates, back to school just the hard facts or specialized skills to others? season may mean less in their working that were advertised in the program As proud members of the growing world as it’s become just another brochure for that specific profession. family of 64,000 Mohawk College month of the year, while for others You made friends, some of whom graduates, I encourage you to share its significance may have changed as may have taught you as much as any your positive Mohawk experiences their children prepare for a new year class. You developed competence with others and suggest that Mohawk of study. In either case it should also and more importantly confidence to may indeed be for them, too. After be a time for you to reflect on your enter the working world in whatever all, you didn’t turn out too badly now own schooling experiences, including field. Finally, you learned a bit about did you? those at Mohawk and how they’ve yourself. Even if one of those lessons been beneficial to you. was that the intended profession of Of course there are some who’ll graduates from program X just wasn’t be quick to point out that they for you! graduated from program X at When you think of your time Mohawk and have never worked a at Mohawk specifically, I ask you day in the specific trade/profession to consider the following three Morgan Seele, President they thought program X led to and so questions: 1) How many ways was Mohawk College Alumni Association

ALUMNI BOARD OF DIRECTORS: 2004 - 2005 SLATE OF OFFICERS

Morgan Seele, Sandra Richardson, President Vice President Programs and Krysia Iwanek, Services Past President Lynn James, Director Susan McDonald, Kim McCartney, Director Vice President Finance and Lyla Miklos, Director Development Kyle Smith, MSA President Lidia Siino, Gene Stodolak, Director Vice President Marketing and Michael Wall, Director Communications Ron Worrall, Director

The Alumni Association thanks these individuals for their valued contributions to Alumni activities, committees and meetings on behalf of the Alumni of Mohawk College. We appreciate your dedication.

4 MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 from the Alumni Relations Office... PUBLISHER Life isn’t about Mohawk College Alumni Association FINDING YOURSELF EDITOR Greg Chew ...life is about DESIGN AND PRODUCTION CREATING YOURSELF Copperlen IMA - George Bernard Shaw Linda Marshall, PHOTOGRAPHY Director, Alumni and Kelly Dunham, Lisa Fitzpatrick, Corporate Events Marketing & Public Relations erhaps it’s the environment of showcasing our new look. Department Mohawk College, Bernetta change but it is overwhelming to With a database of 64,000 strong we Scime, Lidia Siino, Stephen Veerman, Mark Wiley, Kathleen Thorne Pappreciate the significant forward face an ongoing challenge – keeping in movement Mohawk has witnessed. The touch. For many years, trackers have CONTRIBUTORS challenges we faced have been met by industriously made phone calls and K. L. Schmidt, Kate Schooley, talented, enthusiastic people who have enquiries trying to find alumni who Angus Gillespie, Lynn James, the privilege to call themselves “alumni.” had moved, married, changed jobs and Alumni Association Marketing and Communications Committee, Linda As the new person responsible, I wish careers, divorced, moved again, changed Basso, Kelly Bates, Sanela Cosic, to extend a heartfelt thank you to those jobs again, married again (oh, what Kelly Dunham, Lisa Fitzpatrick, Nancy who have shared with me the work and complicated lives we lead!) in an effort to Fleming, Cheryl Flower, Jelena Lukic, responsibilities that such change brings. keep our substantial community together. Debbie Logel-Butler, Donna Luker, Kim McCreary-Stewart, Francesca Petulla, Last December, we welcomed a new We will continue with our efforts to find Morgan Seele, Julianne Simpson, president at Mohawk College, MaryLynn and keep you close, but, in accordance with Stephen Veerman, Lacey Williams, West-Moynes, who has since been new privacy legislation, we will also keep MaryLynn West-Moynes. developing, with input from all facets your information safe. Please remember of the college, a new strategic plan –Six us when you change your address, or find EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD Ronald Holgerson, Executive Director, Cornerstones to Success – of which the that special job. We always want to hear Marketing and Communications;Linda Alumni Relations department is proud from you. Contact our office at 905 575- Marshall, Director, Alumni and to be a part. Like our President, I am 2258, by fax at 905 575-2443, or email Corporate Events; Lidia Siino, Vice constantly reminded of the high calibre us at [email protected]. If you President, Alumni Board of Directors of Mohawk graduates, their influence would like to reach fellow graduates, or CONTENT CO-ORDINATOR and support in the community and their brag just a little, send us a bit of history Barbara Lynn Evans generosity of time and effort, all aimed and/or pictures for our special section at building and enhancing the college’s “Keeping In Touch – Where are they In Touch Magazine is published semi- enviable reputation. We have also had now?” annually by the Alumni and Corporate Services Department of Mohawk the good fortune in this college to have Unlike other areas of the college the College.This magazine is circulated college staff, volunteers, and mentors alumni department doesn’t experience to Alumni and Friends of Mohawk of the current Association, who helped the semester system. Our level of activity College. establish a firm base on which we can is always high, and our board of directors, continue to build and grow. inducted at the June AGM, have also Ideas and opinions published or expressed in “In Touch” do not Among our numerous projects and been working through the summer. In necessarily reflect those of Mohawk priorities is service to Mohawk graduates. 2004/05 we still produce the 25-Year Club College, the Alumni Association, or the While we continue our highly successful Reunion, our bi-annual magazine and the Editor. affiliations with Bank of Montreal Alumni of Distinction Awards. To update your alumni record, please Mastercard® and Mainway Insurance, Like Shaw said, life is about creating contact: we have also negotiated an alumni cruise oneself. As part of this process, Mohawk Mohawk College which will sail to the Caribbean in April, College has had a hand in the creation Alumni Relations Office, and by popular demand, a return to a of you, as a graduate. The Alumni P.O. Box 2034 taping of the “The Red Green Show” at the Association and this Mohawk College Hamilton, ON L8N 3T2 end of October. New alumni merchandise both nurture that creation and enrich it Phone: 905-575-2258 and diploma frames will also be available, by promoting the talents and skills of our Fax: 905-575-2443 with secure shopping on-line for the alumni, as well as rewarding their efforts; Email: [email protected] convenience of our members locally and something we have endeavoured to do for around the world. Soon, we will also the last 20 years. Canada Post Publication Agreement Number 40065780 launch an enhanced website of our own, MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 5 alumni NEWS Alumni Association Contributes to a Celebration of Nursing Education

The Alumni Association is proud to be among the contributors to this magnificent stained glass panel commissioned by the Celebration Planning Committee of the Faculty of Health Sciences. The panel was unveiled at the Institute of Health Sciences Campus by Association President Krysia Iwanek, on May 12, 2004. This panel integrates symbols of the past, present and future of the profession of nursing. The solid foundation of nursing education is represented by the crests of the four schools of nursing that were amalgamated to form the Mohawk College Nursing Program. The Mohawk nursing crest in the middle signifies the central and unified role played by the nursing program in being the link between the past and the future. “I have tried to convey the passion of the nursing educators who have commissioned this work,” says artist and creator Leigh Greaves. “Pride in tradition, reverence for the role of a healer, and confidence in the future of the profession are all at play here.”

MOHAWK NURSES LEAD COLLEAGUES ON HEALTHCARE ISSUES

Three Association Presidents hail from nursing program Sandra Ireland (L) and Linda Haslam-Stroud are While Canadians celebrated National two heavy hitters in the Nursing Week, the profession itself is in healthcare industry who the hands of Mohawk College graduates came out of Mohawk’s and students - literally. Nursing Program Sandra Ireland, a 1990 graduate of the Mohawk College Registered Nursing self-regulation. Ms. Ireland, a Hamilton will begin her fourth year of the BScN Program, is the current President of the resident and clinical nurse specialist at program in September at the IAHS. College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO). Hamilton Health Sciences, was an adult She will graduate with the first class of Linda Haslam-Stroud, who graduated learner at the time she enrolled in the baccalaureate nurses in Spring 2005. from the same program in 1977, is the Mohawk nursing program. “Everyone As for the current leadership roles newly elected President of the Ontario at Mohawk College provided me with a of Mohawk’s Sandra Ireland, Linda Nurses’ Association (ONA). And fourth- career that I could not even imagine.” Haslam-Stroud and Sandra Woltman, year nursing student Sandra Woltman - For Linda Haslam-Stroud, a 1977 they are terrific examples of the studying in Mohawk’s new collaborative nursing graduate of Mohawk College, College’s achievements in educating degree program - is the 2004 President representing 49,000 unionized nurses is professional nurses. “Whether it’s in of the Canadian Nursing Students’ about improving the quality of working clinical, administration, professional Association (CNSA). life for nurses and ensuring that their standards, or the union office, Mohawk With a membership of 140,000 nurses work environments are healthy and safe. College nurses are providing expertise to in Ontario, CNO is the regulatory For students about to enter the nursing patients, employers, the public and their body that protects the public’s right to profession, Mohawk’s Sandra Woltman colleagues,” says Rosemary Knechtel, quality nursing services by providing believes it’s important to be an advocate Executive Dean of Health Sciences and leadership to the nursing profession in early on in the process. Ms. Woltman, 23, Human Services.

6 MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 Alumni Association ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING JUNE 2004 The Alumni Association held its the evening (see Slate of Officers Annual General Meeting at Fennell page). The new Executive Committee Campus on Thursday, June 17, 2004. members shared their insights for the Special guests included Rick Sterne, future of their committees. Guests Chair of the Board of Governors, enjoyed an evening networking with Martin Van Zon, Governor, Board of fellow Alumni over wine and cheese. Governors, Kathy Verspagen, Faculty The next regular Board of Director’s Representative, Board of Governors. meeting is scheduled for September Association partners Barbara Wunder 21, 2004. from the Bank of Montreal (Affinity (TOP) Morgan Seele, Alumni Association President, Program), Melody Murray and Lynda thanks Angela Barbas for her service on the Board. Smith from Mainway Insurance also (MIDDLE) Lidia Siino, Vice President Marketing and attended the meeting. Communications, Pat Parker, Past President Presentations to our outgoing Board Krysia Iwanek, Past President, Darren Hardenbrook, Outgoing Director members took place and inductions (BOTTOM) Krysia Iwanek with Melody Murray and of new Board members completed Lynda Smith from Mainway Insurance.

PREMIER’S ALUMNI OF DISTINCTION Mohawk Alumnus Wins AWARDS 2005 AWARDS 2005 2003 Hamilton Women CALL FOR NOMINATIONS CALL FOR NOMINATIONS of the Year Award

The Premier’s Awards honour The Alumni of Distinction Awards the important social and economic honour the exceptional contributions contributions college graduates that Mohawk College alumni make to make to Ontario and throughout their communities and professions. the world. Any college graduate may Award recipients may go on to become be nominated for this prestigious candidates for the Premier’s Awards. award. Categories include Business, An individual is selected from each Community Services, Creative Arts & of the six categories: New Graduate, Design, Health Sciences, Technology Business, Community Service, and Recent Graduate. There is Technology, Health Sciences and no limit to the number of times a Creative Arts and Design. graduate can be nominated. The If you know an alumnus who Premier Awards will be presented has unique career achievements, On April 20, 2004, Lyla Miklos on February 21, 2005 in Toronto, is committed to helping others, (Radio Broadcasting / Broadcast Ontario. and has made many extraordinary Journalism) was recognized by If you know alumni who are contributions to society, please contact the Hamilton Status of Women exceptional in their field and have us. All Mohawk graduates are eligible. Committee for her outstanding made significant contributions to achievements and contributions in their communities, contact our office. NOMINATE TODAY furthering the position of Hamilton- Learn more about these awards at Visit our website to view past area women. Lyla was selected as www.thecouncil.on.ca (Click on recipients and download a winner of the 2003 Women of the Premier’s Awards). To view past nomination form. Year Award in the Communications Mohawk recipients visit our website www.mohawkcollege.ca/alumni/awards category. Along with Lyla’s many www.mohawkcollege.ca/alumni or Or call the Alumni office for more community interests, she also holds telephone the Alumni office at 905- information 905-575-2258 a Director’s position on the Alumni 575-2258. Deadline for submission: June 1, 2005 Association. Congratulations Lyla! MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 7 upcoming EVENTS

AATTENTION look at ALL what’s MEMBERS going OF inon... the Keith McIntyre Theatre at buffet, return transportation from THE CLASS OF ‘80 Fennell Campus. Mohawk College and all taxes and Are you an alumnus from the Class Join us for an evening of outstanding gratuities. of 1980? Near or far…. we want jazz guitar music dedicated to The bus will leave from the Mohawk to hear from you! The Alumni Ed Bickert, and performed by College main entrance at 5:00 p.m. Association will be hosting the Lorne Lofsky, Reg Schwager, and and will return around 11:00 p.m. 25-year Club Reunion Dinner and Geoff Young. Accompanied by See ad on page 39 for more Dance for the Class of ’80 in the Pat Collins on bass and Kevin details! fall of 2005. This is an excellent Dempsey on drums. Opening for opportunity to reconnect with old this guitar extravaganza will be MOHAWK COLLEGE HOLIDAY classmates and reflect fondly on vocalist Carol McCartney backed VILLAGE & CRAFT SHOW your experiences at Mohawk. by a Mohawk faculty ensemble. Friday, November 12, 3pm - 9pm Help us to include all of your Tickets $25.00 adults and $15.00 Saturday, November 13, 9am - classmates among the attendees students. Call 905-575-2044 to 3pm in 2005, by encouraging them reserve yours today! Browse through hundreds of to contact us. View past reunion unique holiday gift items at the photos at www.mohawkcollege.ca/ ALUMNI CRUISE Mohawk College Holiday Village & alumni Update your records easily Join us aboard the Carnival Valor Craft Show at Fennell Campus. $2 on-line! You can also send us an and enjoy one of the world’s newest admission (children under 3 free) email to alumni@mohawkcollege. floating resorts with other Mohawk Free Parking. See ad pg 18. ca or telephone the Alumni Office College Alumni. Travel the Eastern at 905-575-2258. We look forward Caribbean from Miami calling HOMECOMING WEEKEND to seeing you next fall! at Nassau, The Bahamas, St. VARSITY EVENTS For more 25-year Reunion Thomas, USVI and St. Marten for October 1 and 2, 2004 information keep posted by visiting spectacular beaches, excursions FRIDAY EVENTS our website. and duty-free shopping. With Women’s Fastball friends from home you are sure VS Canadore @ 6pm 25-YEAR REUNION to have fun at the special alumni SATURDAY EVENTS CLASS OF 1979 events aboard the Valor. Women’s Fastball On Saturday, October 2, 2004, The 7-night package includes Alumni Game @ 9:30am the Alumni Association is holding flights from Toronto and departs on Women’s Fastball a 25-year Club Reunion Dinner Sunday April 10, 2005. Prices start VS Canadore @ 12noon and Dance for the Class of ’79. as low as $1465 including all port Men’s Rugby For more information visit our charges and pre-paid gratuities. VS Fleming @ 2:30pm website at www.mohawkcollege. A refundable $350 per person Women’s Soccer ca/alumni. deposit will reserve your spot. For @ Redeemer @ 11am Football special pre-reunion more information please call Karen Men’s Soccer @ Redeemer @ 1pm event – The first 150 reunion Boot at (800) 665-4981 ext 240 or http://athletics.mohawkcollege.ca guests will receive FREE tickets (905) 570-9999 ext 240 or visit the to the Hamilton Ti-Cats game on website at http://www.tripcentral. Friday, October 1. Reunion guests ca/trip/SPEC/special-63.html BASKETBALL ALUMNI can also visit the many excellent See ad on page 29 for more WEEKEND tourist and cultural venues in details. January 29, 2005 Hamilton including the Art Gallery 1 pm – Women’s Alumni Game of Hamilton, Dundurn Castle and 3 pm – Men’s Alumni Game the Royal Botanical Gardens. THE RED GREEN SHOW Mohawk VS Fanshawe ALUMNI TRIP 6:00 pm & 8:00 pm 5TH ANNUAL JAZZ Looking for fun and laughter? CONCERT SERIES Come along on Saturday, October HAP HOLMAN ALUMNI The Steeltown Friends of Mohawk 30 with your fellow alumni to see a BONSPIEL Jazz are holding their 5th Annual live taping of the Red Green Show. Glendale Golf & Curling Club Fundraising Fall Concert on Package price of $60 includes a Saturday, January 29, 2005 Monday, October 25 at 8:00 p.m. ticket to the live taping, dinner http://athletics.mohawkcollege.ca

8 MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 alumni VARSITY VARSITY AWARDS BANQUET

Student-athletes were honoured at the 37th Annual Varsity Awards Banquet, Wednesday, April 7, 2004. The following were the major award winners:

Female and Male Freshman of the Year Tara Campbell and Peter Snioulis

Dr. Sam Mitminger Award Hap Holman Kim Shatz with President Business Award MaryLynn West-Moynes Scott Bundy with Evie Holman

Dr. Keith L. McIntyre Award Kyle Smith with Keith McIntyre

Outstanding Male and Female All Round Male Athlete of Athlete of the Year the Year George Macut and Krystal Matt Schnarr with SAC Barb Moore Spirit of Athletics Award Eckersall Chair BJ Peachey Rob Rende with Cal Haddad

Alumni are able to participate in our Campus Recreation Programs. Please check our website www.mohawkcollege.ca for details and contact the Athletics Department.Varsity Events are listed under Upcoming Events If you are interested in joining us at one of the ALUMNI EVENTS, please see the Alumni section on our website, www.mohawkcollege.ca/alumni for more details and to register.

MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 9 around CAMPUS

BRANTFORD CAMPUS STONEY CREEK CAMPUS

The new Children’s Safety Village of Brant is an education At a time when many employers are demanding that centre located on Mohawk College property at Brantford prospective apprentices hold a technician diploma, Campus. Programs such as fire prevention, smoke alarms, Mohawk College graduates can enter an apprenticeship traffic and bicycle safety and stranger awareness are taught to with two of the three in-school levels completed. Mohawk approximately 9,000 area children in grades 1-6 from the City College graduates of the two-year Mechanical and of Brantford, County of Brant and Six Nations Territory. Electrical Technician programs at Stoney Creek Campus Children are encouraged to demonstrate the skills they are earning more than a technician diploma! have learned in a miniature town. The children navigate Students in the Tool & Die (precision metal machining), their way through the village by foot, on bicycles or in a small Automation (industrial maintenance mechanic) and battery-powered vehicle and are encouraged to demonstrate Electrical (electrical trade) programs complete the in- their skills. school portion of the basic and intermediate apprenticeship Police officers, fire prevention officers and our trained programming in the related trade as part of their program community volunteers supervise all activities at the village. of study. The Children’s Safety Village of Brant provides a safe realistic Students gain valuable on-the-job training through environment for children to understand and apply the safety 4 - 16 months of relevant co-operative education work lessons they have learned. experience. The program has enjoyed co-op placement rates of 90 - 100% since its inception in 2000. Many students obtain the full 16 months of co-op work experience and receive a full-time job offer from their co- op employer upon graduation and successful completion of the basic and intermediate levels of apprenticeship. The salaries earned by the co-op students range from $12.00 Construction has begun on the Children’s Safety Village of Brant – $17.98/hour. The graduate statistics are comparable. located at the Brantford Campus of Mohawk College This is a fabulous opportunity for students and Currently, the village is in the construction phase and will employers. For more information please contact Kelly be opening its doors to the children this fall. Fundraising Bates at 905-575-2095 or [email protected]. efforts are ongoing, and there are opportunities for support The Centre for Co-operative Education, Graduate and at a variety of levels. For more information on the village Student Employment offers free job posting services for or how you may contribute, please visit our website at employers and job search services for Mohawk College www.csvbrant.ca or call the office at (519) 720-6950. graduates and students.

DID YOU KNOW……? NOMINATIONS FOR AWARDS are accepted You can support your Mohawk College Alumni With a validated Alumni throughout the year. The Alumni Association Association by volunteering a small amount of your student ID card you have offers six awards to outstanding alumni time! We are always interested in alumni that enjoy Library privileges at the who excel in their field of employment. The public speaking, mentoring students, sharing stories Stoney Creek Campus as well Alumni of Distinction Awards are prestigious for the magazine, delivering an alumni address at as access to student activities awards that are presented yearly. To find out convocation, or assisting at our information booths at and events. For further more information on awards please visit our events. If you would like to get involved, please email information please contact website at www.mohawkcollege.ca/alumni/ us at [email protected] or telephone our office the Stoney Creek Student Life awards . at 905-575-2258. office at 905-575-2537. 10 MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 2004 STAFF RETIREES EMPLOYERS RECRUIT GRADS The Alumni Association extends Congratulations and Best Wishes to the Mohawk College 2004 Staff ON CAMPUS Retirees. Job fairs are popular events that take place twice a year at Mohawk Trish Anderson - Disability Services College. In February, the Centre for Bob Anderson - Industrial & Mechanical Engineering Technology Co-operative Education, Graduate Alan Atkinson - Literacy & Basic and Student Employment hosts Skills a Winter Job Fair at the Fennell Millie Atkinson - Mathematics Campus in Hamilton showcasing Eliabeth Broughton - Business students and graduates of applied Studies arts, business, human services and Diane Carlson - Continuing technology programs. In November, Education the Health Sciences Job Fair is held Health Sciences & Human Services at the Mohawk-McMaster Institute Max Corradetti - Motive Power for Applied Health Sciences located on 2004. “We have a good relationship with Mohawk College,” said Brandy. “We’re Technology the McMaster University campus in Lois Cottrell - Co-Op Education here to promote our company and job Hamilton. Graduate & Student Employment opportunities at the Orillia location.” Employers recruiting full-time, part- Lynn Courtney - Language Studies Pliant has been recruiting co-op students time or summer employees as well as Jean Gabel - Business Studies at Mohawk College for a number of years co-op students or interns are invited to Margo Goffin - Medical Services and recently hired 3 Mohawk graduates. participate in the job fairs. Employers Malcolm Heydorn - Humanities & Brandy did her own co-op work terms can purchase booth space and set up Social Sciences with Pliant Corporation. their display in a trade-show style Bob Hilverth - Business Systems format. The job fairs are well attended For more information about Gord Holmes - Business and have proven to be a popular option upcoming job fairs at Mohawk College Management for employers to meet with students and or other services for graduates or Michele Keat - Literacy & Basic Skills graduates and to promote careers with employers, please visit the Graduate and Steven Keyes - Language Studies their organizations. Student Employment “virtual office” Ashok Kumar - Chemical & Increasingly, alumni are coming back to web site http://grad-employment. Environmental Technology Mohawk College to recruit students and mohawkcollege.ca or call Linda Basso at Peter Mann - Building & Construction graduates. Brandy Nicholson, Technical 905-575-2291. Sciences Centre Supervisor at Pliant Corporation The Centre for Co-operative Education, Karen Martin - Nursing in Orillia, Ontario, and a graduate of Graduate and Student Employment offers Sharon McCann - Business Studies the Chemical Engineering Technology free job posting services for employers Margaret McClelland - Nursing program at Mohawk College, represented and job search services for Mohawk Mary Mills - English Language Pliant at the Winter Job Fair in February College graduates and students. Studies Norm Moore - Media Studies Ihor Pashynsky - Law & Security Ray Price - Industrial & Mechanical THE BRAIN Engineering Technology MOHAWK COLLEGE’S VIRTUAL LIBRARY Miriam Primorac- English Language Studies Are you planning on travelling to Europe or South America this winter? Need Christine Rea - Academic Scheduling information on hotels, the country or renting an automobile? Find the answers on & Student Research Mohawk’s Brain. This amazing website has links to virtually anywhere, answering your Lou Sartor - Business Management questions from the comfort of your home computer! Tom Sutton - Mathematics Other links include online chat with our library staff for live help, links to sites Ted Thorpe - Educational Technology including WebCT, MoCoMotion where you can view Mohawk announcements and Sandra Valvasori - Payroll Services register for a continuing education course on-line, and countless subject links and Marty Wilson - Technical Support references. Services Visit THE BRAIN today! Joanne Wolfarth - Controller’s http://www.mohawkcollege.ca/dept/library/brain/index.html Division

MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 11 around CAMPUS ALUMNI SPEAK AT 2004 CONVOCATIONS At the February and June 2004 Convocations, nine alumni delivered inspirational messages to an audience of more that 3,800 proud graduates and guests. ohawk College celebrated entrepreneurs, skilled trades people, for the 345 students graduating in the with families and friends of healthcare professionals, caregivers and Faculty of Applied Arts and Business Mthe more than 1,800 students public safety officials, I’m confident you, (Tourism and Travel programs). Marnie who graduated last week at one of six too, will help shape our future.” Flaherty, Chief Executive Officer for convocation ceremonies at the Brantford Mohawk College President MaryLynn Today’s Family, was the convocation Sanderson Centre and Fennell Campus West-Moynes praised all those in speaker at the ceremony for 233 graduates in Hamilton. support of our graduates and urged in the Faculty of Health Sciences and Rick Sterne, Chair of the Mohawk the employers in the crowd to hire our Human Services. Linda Haslam-Stroud, College Board of Governors, presented highly successful graduates - tomorrow President of the Ontario Nurses’ eight gold medals throughout the - if they hadn’t already. Mohawk College Association, was the alumni speaker at weekend as the College paid tribute to the staff, she said, provide our students with the convocation for the 190 graduates outstanding academic and community the best education and training available in the Faculty of Health Sciences and involvement students make every day. anywhere in the world. Human Services (Nursing and Practical “Whether you use the skills and At the College’s convocation in Nursing programs). At the largest knowledge you acquired at Mohawk Brantford for the 333 graduates in the convocation on Saturday morning, College to make the world the way it Faculty of Applied Arts, Business and Diana Zanin, Vice President and General ought to be, or you choose to give back Health Sciences and Human Services, Manager of St. Peter’s Health System, to your community in some other way, the distinguished alumni speaker was addressed 444 graduates in the Faculty of you have joined a fraternity of more than Deputy Police Chief Ken Leendertse of Business. Alison Murchie, a Bid Manager 60,000 Mohawk College graduates who the Hamilton Police Service. for Strategic Outsourcing, closed the touch our lives every day,” he told the At the first of five Fennell Campus weekend celebration by addressing 280 graduates. “From federal and provincial convocations, Chris Mei, Program graduates in the Faculty of Engineering cabinet ministers, to media celebrities, Director at WAVE 94.7 was the speaker Technology.

Sandra Ireland, Nursing (1990) Sandra joins the Mohawk alumni leaders in Nursing, as the President of the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO), which has a membership of 140,000 nurses in Ontario. Expressing her gratitude, Sandra noted “Everyone at Mohawk College provided me with a career that I could not even imagine.” Sandra is a Hamilton resident and clinical nurse specialist in the Trauma and Neurosciences Program at Hamilton Health Sciences Corporation.

Marnie Flaherty, Early Childhood Education (1982) Marnie is currently Chief Executive Officer of Today’s Family – Caring for Your Child. In sharing her valuable occupational experiences, she advised graduates to “remember that you are part of a community, you can accomplish incredible things. Use you education, your mind, but mostly your heart, to do what we should all be doing – trying in whatever way we can, to make the world a better place.”

Kelly Cranford, Child & Youth Worker (1998) Kelly is a Dean’s Honours Graduate, Bartimeaus Award recipient and Dawn Patrol Supervisor’s Award for Excellence recipient. She has worked as a Child and Youth Worker and residential counsellor and is currently a sessional instructor and field placement supervisor for the Child and Youth Worker Program at Mohawk.

12 MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 Diana Zanin, Business Administration (1990) Diana is a leader in the field of Home Services and currently holds the position of Vice-President and General Manager of St. Peter’s Home Services in Hamilton. In her heartfelt address, Diana spoke about the importance of finances, health and support systems and said “the best things happen as a result of hard work, sweat and persistence. Be true to yourself.” Her message was strong, stating “Visualize your success. Visualize yourself and where you want to be.”

Chris Mei, Radio Broadcasting (1996) Chris is currently the Director of Promotions and Marketing for local smooth jazz station, Wave 94.7 FM. Among his many accomplishments since graduation, Chris has worked as a Cruise Director for the Royal Caribbean’s Cruise Lines. In his uplifting speech, Chris asked graduates to “learn from those who know more…strive to be like those who inspire…never forget what you learned and build on it. It’s all up to you now…it can be a great ride.”

Ken Leendertse, Law & Security (1979) Ken’s career has grown through his many years of experience with the Hamilton Police Services to the position of Deputy Chief. As an alumni speaker, he stressed that “understanding the challenge and living the dream” is supported by the “solid educational foundation that is the gateway to the future.” Ken’s three secrets of success are “education, volunteering and being true to yourself and your family,” all demonstrated by this outstanding alumnus.

Linda Haslam-Stroud, Nursing (1979) Linda is President of the Ontario Nurses’ Association and works as a renal transplant nurse at St. Joseph’s Healthcare in Hamilton. She shared her enthusiasm, devotion and commitment to the nursing profession with the graduates from the Nursing and Practical Nursing Programs. Linda stated, “ I strongly encourage you to become active in your profession and be an advocate for your patients. The possibilities for everyone in this room are endless. Go out and take advantage of them all!”

Alison Murchie, Computer Systems Technology Co-op (1986) As a past Alumni of Distinction Award recipient, Alison works for Hewlett-Packard as a Bid Manager for the Managed Services Division. Alison attributes her success to the excellent foundation she acquired while at Mohawk College. In her past position at Armadale Systems, she was involved in the development, implementation and management of a one-of-a-kind computer system to support Ontario’s Organ Transplant Program. Alison encouraged the graduates to set goals and pursue their dreams while reading excerpts from the Dr. Seuss book Oh, the Places You’ll Go!

Joe Curto, Mechanical Engineering Technology Co-op (1987) Joe is an active alumnus who has returned to Mohawk’s classrooms to share his “real world” experiences, knowledge and insights with students. He excels as a Six Sigma Quality-Master Black Belt in manufacturing at General Electric in Hamilton. At convocation, Joe encouraged graduates to embrace life-long learning, adding “As new obstacles and new opportunities arise in your future, you will reflect back to the base of knowledge that this institution has taught you. May this preparation for life guide you to make choices that intrigue you, enlighten you and continue to educate you.”

MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 13 fundraising UPDATE

Debbie Logel Butler Executive Director of Community Relations and Advancement

here has been lots of activity through the summer months with Tthe Shaping the Future Campaign. With over $6.7 million raised, the Campaign is well on its way to reaching 50% of its goal. The many cultivation meetings with community and corporate leaders is beginning to result in solid support for the Campaign. The highlight, however, has been an extraordinary gift of $1 million from Dofasco. Dofasco has been an active partner with Mohawk for many years and this gift is a true needs of industry; and will provide skills testament to their continued interest and upgrading and retraining opportunities commitment to the College. It is also a for employers. valuable message that we can take out The Awareness Centre, located within into the community as we approach other the Complex, will focus on raising the corporations for their support. Thank profile of all skilled trades by working you Dofasco! with prospective students even before As the Information Technology Centre they reach high school, with high school nears completion, the Campaign’s focus guidance counsellors and teachers, with is turning to the significant expansion parents and the community in general. and renovation of the Stoney Creek With the expansion, Stoney Creek will campus. A new Skilled Trades Training play an even greater role in the future of and Awareness Complex will be built, the College and of the economic growth and industries that employ our graduates incorporating the existing building, to and prosperity of our community and from the skilled trades programs. help us address the critical skilled labour the businesses and industries that we We look forward to a busy fall on the shortage that is almost upon us. The new serve. With the shovel scheduled to go in Campaign trail and invite you to join us Complex will allow for the expansion of the ground in May 2005, a great deal of as a volunteer for this exciting initiative. existing programs with new classroom work is ahead of us. For the Campaign, If you are interested, or would like more and lab space; the addition of new it means we will begin to identify and information regarding the Campaign, we programs that will meet the ever-changing build relationships with the businesses welcome your call at 905-575-2367.

NEW PLANNED GIVING PROGRAM TO BE LAUNCHED! Do you have a will? Have you planned developed and ways for you to support provide funding for scholarships and your estate? Have you planned for your Mohawk College through a bequest, bursaries, equipment renewal and other retirement? When doing so, think of insurance policy or other vehicles are priority projects at the College. Watch for Mohawk College. being established. A planned gift is the launch of this exciting new program We are currently developing a Planned an excellent way to make a significant on the Mohawk College website later this Giving program at Mohawk College that contribution to the college in the future, fall, online at www.mohawkcollege.ca. will help you with these important issues. with tax benefits for you today. The Also watch for the launch of our Special A brochure is in the works, estate and Planned Giving Program will support Moments and In Memoriam programs financial planning seminars are being our new Future Leaders Fund that will coming to you soon.

14 MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 You can make your gift to Mohawk College today by filling in this form and dropping it off or mailing it to:

Community Relations and Advancement, Mohawk College P.O. Box 2034 Hamilton, ON L8N 3T2

For more information, please call us at 905-575-2482

Personal Information Charitable Tax Receipts will be issued by the College and Name: ______sent to you at the address you have listed above. Program: ______Year of Graduation: ______I would like to contribute to Mohawk College in the amount of Student # (if known): ______$50 $100 $250 $500 $1,000 $2,500 Street Address: ______Other: $______City: ______I have attached my cheque, payable to Mohawk College Province/State: ______Postal Code: ______OR I would like to pay by: Home Phone #: ______My Mohawk College BMO MasterCard E-Mail: ______Visa Master Card American Express Name of Employer: ______Name on Card: ______Employer’s Address: ______Card #: ______Expiry: ______Work Phone #: ______Signature: ______

Many employers “match” charitable gifts made by employees to I would like to direct my gift toward: their educational institutions. Highest Priority Needs Shaping the Future Capital Campaign Campus Do you work for a gift matching company? Expansions Yes No Unsure Equipment Renewal Awards & Scholarships My affiliations with Mohawk College include: (please check as many as applicable) Ontario Scholarship Opportunity Trust Fund (OSOTF) in support of student bursaries, which will be matched dollar Alumni Business/Corporate Staff Member for dollar by the provincial government Board of Governors Student Retired Staff Other ______Advisory Committee Member Friend Recognition of Your Gift Other: ______I would like to be recognized for my contribution in Mohawk Donor Report, and would like my name listed Is this a joint gift with your spouse? Yes No as: ______If Yes, please complete your spouse’s information. I prefer to remain anonymous. Signature: ______Date: ______Spouse’s Name: ______Other information I have made a provision for Mohawk College in my will. Did your spouse graduate from Mohawk College? I would like to be contacted regarding planned giving Yes Year: ______Program: ______options (gifts through a bequest or insurance). No Thank you for your support!

Occasionally, our alumni list is made available to reputable companies, partners and organizations whose products or services may be of interest to you. If you prefer not to have your name made available, please contact the Alumni Office at 905-575-2258, or by mail at P. O. Box 2034, Hamilton, Ontario L8N 3T2

MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 15 Life of the Party!

By K. L. Schmidt You could say that Doug Dreher’s business outlook is inflated, which is exactly the way he wants it to which revealed that indeed, accounting allowed me to absorb the on-the-job be. As General Manager of the Pioneer was the field that suited him best. So at the training,” Dreher reflects. “The cost Balloon Company – an international age of 26, he embarked on a three-year accounting systems (at Otis) were very manufacturer and distributor of high- course of study at Mohawk College to be defined. It would have been very difficult quality balloons – his lofty goals tend to a tax accountant, specializing in finance. for a person to absorb them coming out come with the territory. Still working full time at Otis Elevator of Grade 13.” Things have changed considerably by day, he completed his required 36 Backed by his education and work from the days when Dreher was a high credits entirely at night school. He was experience, it didn’t take long for Dreher school dropout working the factory the third Mohawk business graduate to to start building his accounting career. floor at the Otis Elevator Company in Hamilton. With aspirations of being an accountant, he made the choice to go “The academic training at Mohawk allowed me back to school, finishing his high school diploma at the age of 20. His next stop to absorb the on-the-job training.” was McMaster University. “I only attended one year at McMaster,” says Dreher with a chuckle. earn his diploma this way, and did it in “I applied to the Pioneer Balloon “The campus was so disorganized, you the same amount of time he would have Company. They had heard about practically had to park in Dundas and attending day school. It was 1976. Mohawk, but initially were after an walk back to Hamilton. And I didn’t see Halfway through his second year accounting designation. Fortunately, the eye-to-eye with the professors.” of study, Dreher was promoted to the fellow who interviewed me had a bad Still in search of his niche, Dreher accounting department of the Otis experience with a designated accountant, underwent a battery of aptitude and Elevator Company. who knew plenty of theory, but wasn’t personality assessments at Mohawk, “The academic training at Mohawk very practical. So the interviewer fought

16 MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 LIFE OF THE PARTY upper management to hire me, and courses offered along with Finance gave has regularly used the campus Pro Corp won.” significant exposure to marketing and Centre as a training facility for his fellow And so began Dreher’s life as a balloon sales. Business is a three-legged stool, Pioneer Balloon employees, and has man. Just one year after he moved to supported by manufacturing, marketing brought in Mohawk’s Human Resources Pioneer, the U.S. and Canadian arms and sales. If one of those elements is team to train the Pioneer workforce on of the organization were rolled into missing, it can’t stand up.” the job. one. The upper management at Pioneer To this day, 61-year-old Dreher “I’m connected to Mohawk at the searched in vain for a candidate to remembers the “top-notch” instructors hip,” he laughs. be their director of finance, finally he met at Mohawk, naming Paul Jaggard Given the scope of the Pioneer discarding their pile of applications and and John Sedgwick among the best. Balloon Company, the training boost hiring Dreher for the job, based largely “The teachers made accounting from Mohawk has been a welcome asset. on his Mohawk training. interesting,” says Dreher, lighting up as This international latex manufacturer Just 18 months later, Dreher was he talks about the experience. “Their prides itself on an 80-year reputation

If you’ve ever been to a trade show or even a sale rack at the local mall, you’ve seen the Pioneer Balloon Company’s work in action.

promoted to the position of General class of instruction was the best because as a top-quality balloon supplier, with Manager – unwillingly, at first. When it came from the industry. Most of the production facilities in Europe, Japan, the CEO arrived in his office to share instructors taught part time, bringing Australia and Mexico. The Hamilton the news, Dreher thanked him, but their industry experience and academics facility employs 200 people and is a fully turned him down cold, feeling he wasn’t to the classroom. I’m doing the job functional company in the sense that well suited to the job. When the CEO I have now because my education at it carries out its own manufacturing, returned, Dreher turned him down a Mohawk was diversified.” printing and distribution departments second time. The CEO finally sent his And though his life has changed on site. Balloons are produced 24 hours “henchmen,” as Dreher calls them, who considerably from the time he graduated a day, seven days a week. In Hamilton convinced him to take the job. Again, he – Dreher has celebrated 32 years of alone, Pioneer turns out two million credits Mohawk for the well-rounded marriage with his wife and has a 20- latex balloons on a daily basis. education that allowed him to make a year-old son attending Wilfrid Laurier And through a printing technique rapid ascent up the corporate ladder. University – he has kept in touch with developed at the Hamilton factory, a “If a person came in with a CGA his old stomping grounds. Dreher has marketing phenomenon known as the (Chartered General Accountant completed half a dozen additional “advertising balloon” was born. The designation) only, they wouldn’t courses through Mohawk to keep inking technique allows balloons to have any exposure to marketing and himself up to date on such issues as be printed with lettering and logos in Human Resources. At Mohawk, other customs and exporting regulations. He up to five colours, and inflates with no

MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 17 LIFE OF THE PARTY distortion. If you’ve ever been to a trade show or even a sale rack at the local mall, you’ve seen the Pioneer Balloon Company’s work in action. Dreher admits that although no workplace can be a party all the time, Pioneer does its best to keep Holiday Village & Craft Show up appearances. The office basks perpetually in giddy balloon décor, with staff members grabbing new designs off the manufacturing lines and inflating them just as soon as they appear. When tensions run high, nothing breaks the ice like a game of balloon bounce among the cubicles. Dreher’s management style – like his product – leans towards the relaxed. He prefers participative methods in the interest of maintaining employee loyalty and morale. “I don’t want people looking over their shoulder, I manage by consensus. We sit in the office, everyone talks and we convince each other. It’s not structured – I don’t believe in the ‘Monday Morning Sales Meeting.’ We don’t have to do that, Friday, November 12, 2004 the communication is very open.” Dreher counts his ability to choose 3pm – 9pm outstanding workers among his assets Saturday, November 13, 2004 -- a key element when building a team which does its best work in this kind of 9am – 3pm atmosphere. Throughout the ranks at Pioneer, attitude and integrity count. Mohawk College Fennell Campus “Never has personal gain gone ahead of the betterment of the people who Fennell Avenue & West 5th work for me. Key players are key players Hamilton, Ontario because I want them to be, and I truly, genuinely like them all. “What gives me the most pleasure in $2 Admission my job is seeing people grow. I have an intuitive sense of the people who have (children 3 and under are free!) what it takes to excel. Once you’ve found Free Parking them, you train them with the tools and knowledge they need, and watch them bloom like a flower.” Your Alumni Association would like Over his career, Dreher has enjoyed to Keep In Touch with you! seeing the impact his company has Email Submit your e-mail* address using the made in the world around him. He has online form on our website.You will seen Pioneer balloons at weddings and be entered into a draw to win alumni funerals, quiet parties and city-wide Contest apparel. celebrations. For him, the joys of the job http://www.mohawkcollege.ca/alumni/ are some of life’s simple pleasures. connections/contest.html “Think of how a child’s face lights up when they’re handed a balloon, Contest closes October 31, 2004 how they laugh and smile and bounce Winners will be announced in the In Touch magazine’s it around. That’s what my work is all Spring 2005 issue.*One e-mail address submission per person please. about.”

18 MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 19 20 MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 Publication: Mohawk College Ad Size: Full Page: (Image: 7.125" x 9.75"; Trim: 8.125" x 10.75") Created: 07/04 Ad Name: MC 3863 Mohawk Ad Client: BMO Bank of Montreal Mosaik MasterCard Colours: CMYK Tradeshop: Creative Network Contact: Geoffrey Paterson eMail: [email protected] Phone: 416.488.1033 x23

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® Registered trade-marks of Bank of Montreal. Patent pending. ®* Bank of Montreal is a licensed user of the registered trade-mark and design owned by MasterCard International Inc. ®† Trademarks of AIR MILES International Trading B.V. Used under license by Loyalty Management Group Canada Inc. and Bank of Montreal. trategy for S uccess There’s a new plan for Mohawk - and we’re all part of the picture S by Kate Schooley WANTED: PURVEYOR OF INSPIRATION Mohawk College President Successful candidate will demonstrate academic excellence & business savvy, MaryLynn West-Moynes with unfailing leadership and integrity in all areas of conduct. Exemplary citizenship qualities needed for community-wide relationship building. Lifelong commitment required.

t’s a job description that would Still fresh in the tenure of her alumni and retirees to play a role. We’re give pause to the most notable of presidency, West-Moynes is adamant in trying to encourage groups to become Iinstitutions, especially in a climate her belief that post-secondary institutions a part of making Mohawk the top of heavy competition and funding cuts. have to change to respond to the needs of institution in the community.” But for Mohawk College, stepping up their community. By building on areas The Strategic Plan will employ to the plate as a source of community of strength and addressing the College’s six cornerstones in its campus-wide inspiration is about to become part of the self-admitted downfalls, a plan has begun revitalization: daily agenda, as the Board of Governors to take shape that will change the face of unveils its new Strategic Plan for 2004- the Mohawk experience. Students and 2007. learning are -- of course -- at the heart “If we were in the manufacturing of it all, with an emphasis on employers, world, our programs would be our economic growth and campus renewal as product,” says President MaryLynn well. In short, the College is preparing for West-Moynes. “You can’t forget this is an an overhaul that will make it indispensable academic environment, but you have to to the surrounding business community. apply business qualities here. The bottom “The results will be quality education line is, you’ve got to have a product that is and consolidation at Mohawk,” West- of the highest quality, meeting the needs Moynes notes. “In the face of shrinking of students and employers.” government funding, we need businesses,

The College of Choice – The Champion of Academic Students Excellence and Any campus newcomer taken aback Innovation 1 by the school’s rampant urban sprawl will be pleased to discover Re-designing programs to that Mohawk has adopted an attitude 2fit employment opportunities and of “one-stop shopping” with regard boosting real-life work experience to student services. Timetable are just a few of the ways that effectiveness and class sizes will be Mohawk plans entrench its ranking reviewed from the perspectives of among the top third of Ontario both students and faculty. A College- colleges. Strategic developments wide working group will also be aim to increase the accessibility commissioned to investigate issues of programs for mature learners, such as student mobility, success English as a Second Language and and retention -- and they will face a international students, the disabled reporting deadline of March 2005. and Aboriginal groups.

22 MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 STRATEGY FOR SUCCESS

The Employer of Choice - exceptional Economic Growth Professional Staff and Prosperity The drive is on for Mohawk to recruit top With community responsibilities 3 instructors who can offer exceptional customer that extend beyond the needs of service, creativity and market-relevant skills. In 4 individual students, Mohawk return, the College will offer opportunities for plans to expand services for the personal and professional growth, mentoring business community at large. The and continuing education. College’s current role of employee training and staff involvement with community boards and initiatives will be brought to the forefront.

Campus Renewal and expansion Quality Frameworks Aligning student services and The last cornerstone 5 beautifying the campus, along of the Plan is what with a re-affirmation to the commitments 6 West-Moynes sums up of campus safety and accessibility aim to simply as “good business make Mohawk’s campus a more pleasant practices.” By adhering atmosphere for staff and students. to a formalized decision- Expansion opportunities at the Fennel and making framework, the Stoney Creek campuses are currently under Board of Governors aims review, with plans underway to strengthen to reduce redundancy the school’s Brantford presence as well. and streamline the implementation process.

A push to increase external the perks of Mohawk’s networking base we’re doing. They’re going to be at the communications to the GTA and can be brought to bear as the changes forefront of the workforce, making a Golden Horseshoe are expected to boost get underway. difference in the community. We’re the effectiveness of student recruitment According to West-Moynes, it’s all doing all we can to help them succeed efforts and public awareness campaigns. about improving the quality of services when they get here – and to prepare And by prioritizing relationships with offered to the student body. “Students them for a progressive career in the campus organizations and employers, have to be at the forefront of everything future.”

MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 23 Peter Rakoczy offers IT Services to the world – along with a little sage advice

WORDS TO LIVE BY by Kate Schooley “Don’t let things happen to you. Make things happen.” These sound words have shaped offerings to meet market needs. I have “Mohawk provided me with a good the career of Mohawk graduate Peter responsibility for the acceleration of foundation of computing fundamentals Rakoczy, whose walk-the-talk style has Microsoft technology adoption, through and a pragmatic approach. The co-op made him an international player in the the leadership and management of program was particularly instrumental world of IT business. Accelerator Teams, focused on strategic in demonstrating the application of Since his graduation from Mohawk ‘go to’ markets.” education to a work environment. It in 1980, Rakoczy hasn’t stopped to cool Even hearing the job description provided me with a great stepping- his heels. In fact, his love of learning and makes information technology stone into the working world, and I drive to be challenged have launched neophytes glad to have Rakoczy in their appreciate what it gave me. The co-op him onto the international technology scene as the new GM of Worldwide Microsoft Consulting Services Strategy. “Worldwide Services’ primary “Mohawk provided me with a good mission is to deliver high-quality foundation of computing fundamentals and services and transfer knowledge to customers and partners, in order to a pragmatic approach.” accelerate the adoption, deployment and long-term acceptance of Microsoft products, technologies and solutions corner. And as the explosive growth of program provides unique views into a that drive significant business value the IT industry continues to propel his variety of companies and career paths, and satisfaction,” explains Rakoczy. career forward, this Control Systems which gives you a running start into the “I am responsible for leading the Technology/Computer Electronics working world. development and communication of graduate credits his Mohawk education It was this “running start” that first Microsoft Consulting Services (MCS) for providing a solid educational basis launched Rakoczy’s career. He was with supporting value propositions and from which to grow. offered a full-time job at Royal Bank of

24 MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 “It is important that your family Peter and his three children understands and enjoying some LIVE BY supports what time together you do. I am fortunate to have that support.”

Canada at the end of his final co-op in 1997 after an intense period of due of Worldwide Microsoft Consulting work term at Mohawk, and stayed there diligence.” Services Strategy. for the next 12 years. In his position, And the rest, as they say, is history. Now based in Redmond, Washington, he was able to work with a variety of Though he hadn’t thought much 46-year-old Rakoczy admits the climb small technology companies, and was about working for Microsoft previously, has been a rewarding one, albeit hard impressed with the way they operated. Rakoczy says he had grown to respect work. “It was at Royal Bank where I the company and where it was heading. “It is extremely busy I must confess, worked with LinkAge Software as a With his combination of large customer as Microsoft is a very intense work client and really liked the commitment and small technology company environment. The culture is one of and professionalism of the team. I experience – along with his expertise in passion and commitment, and people approached the president about a role enterprise computing – Rakoczy knew are compelled to work very hard. It isn’t at LinkAge, and he took me up on it. he would be a good fit. demanded, it just happens.” LinkAge was a great small company Once on board, he was assigned the But as a married father of three, he with many talented people, and I had to role of Managing Consultant with understands the need to balance this learn to wear many hats.” a worldwide Microsoft consulting dedication to his career with the ever- And it was at LinkAge where the practice focused on e-mail connectivity, present demands of family life. future of Rakoczy’s career began to take called EC3. He rose steadily through “It is important that your family shape. the Microsoft ranks: Practice Manager understands and supports what you do. “LinkAge was on a growth path of Microsoft Consulting Services I am fortunate to have that support. My through the development of essential in Toronto in 1998, Senior Practice wife is a part-time, Deputy Small Claims e-mail connectivity software to Manager of the Canada-wide division in Court Judge, but spends the majority Microsoft’s Exchange. Microsoft was 1999. By 2002, he had reached the level of her time at home with our three deciding whether to develop their own of Senior Director of Enterprise Services children. This makes it possible for me equivalent software or acquire it from in Canada, where he stayed until earlier to spend the time I do on my work. I another company. They chose the latter this year, before becoming the GM manage balance by ensuring that I am

MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 25 home each night to spend a couple of hours with the kids. After they go PETER’S to bed, I usually do e-mail and other work from my home office. On the weekends, I am focused on being a husband and father, although I am back “WORDS on the computer Sunday evenings. My position requires travel, which presents an opportunity and a challenge. TO When I have to travel – which is typically one week per month – I stay in daily contact with my family by phone, e-mail, messenger and web cam. LIVE BY”: Would I like to spend more time with my family? Absolutely – but the reality of the industry is that there are demands for long hours. I also believe in a strong work ethic and wish to be a good role model for my children in this regard, but not at their expense. I believe it works for us because I love what 1. Do what you love to do. I do at Microsoft, am committed to my family, and have their support.” When asked about the secrets of his success, Rakoczy replies that there are 2. Be realistic about your own many. He has composed a list of tips, in fact, that he follows in his career: strengths and weaknesses and develop both. “Be observant, and continuously learn. Your education continues 3. Be accountable and acknowledge mistakes. after you graduate from Mohawk. Love what you do, and it doesn’t 4. Make decisions for the right reasons – do the right thing. seem like work.” Career advancement is a by-product of doing a great job in your current role – not the end in itself. 5. Observe the best traits of everyone you come across and decide which traits to emulate. 6. Develop your own style based on your unique combination of capabilities. 7. Take some risks and be uncomfortable. 8. Accept feedback without being defensive. 9. Be pragmatic. 10. Help to develop people around you through constructive feedback and coaching. Even aside from his impressive career accomplishments, Rakoczy’s fervent 11. Recognize when it is time love of his work makes him a standout and a mentor in the business world. He enjoys working with talented people and exciting technology. He gets as to take a stand, and then much satisfaction from watching those around him develop and get stronger take the stand with passion as he does from his own contributions. And he cites one of the greatest joys - Pick your spots. of his work as the chance to learn and be challenged. “Be observant, and continuously learn. Your education continues after you 12. Don’t let things happen to graduate from Mohawk. Love what you do, and it doesn’t seem like work.” you, make things happen. What a wonderful notion indeed. It’s the kind of advice that should be written in fine print at the bottom of every Mohawk diploma.

26 MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 27 Movin’ on Up!

Renovations at the Student Centre reflect how the MSA has become among the most active and progressive student governments in the Ontario college system.

By Lynn E. James

“It was time.” began to change. The SUC, which had That’s the feeling in the Mohawk operational control in the Student Centre, Student’s Association (MSA) as they merged with the Student’s Representative oversee the renovations currently going Council (SRC) in 1994 and became the on in the Student Centre. now more familiar Mohawk Student’s Originally built in the eighties, the Association (MSA). The SUC had already Student Centre was the first of its kind created a corporate structure for the to be incorporated onto a community administration of the centre and now, college campus. Constructed on the west student government was fully in control side with accessibility from the residence, of what they wanted the centre to provide. the student parking lot and from inside These associations laid the groundwork the college via the E Wing hallway, its for the extensive list of services available location is in a visible, high traffic area to the full-time student population, but with a large, attractive main entrance. creating awareness of this support became

The services, which include such things as free legal advice, emergency loans, a student health plan, a student food bank and used book sales, are an important part of the MSA’s devotion to the welfare of Mohawk students.

Retail operations, located directly inside more difficult as the college grew. the centre, were created by the Student’s “We want more students to find us easily, Union Corporation (SUC was the original take advantage of the services and always name of the Students’ Association) to find other students there,” is the sentiment increase its revenue from operations, expressed by Kyle Smith, President of the which in turn, would continue to finance MSA. Improving the profile of the MSA, student services. Total building costs, in and grabbing students’ attention were 1985 dollars, ran about $4 million. among the motives for executing the As time went by, the students, the renovations. The services, which include college and the economics of the times such things as free legal advice, emergency

28 MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 MOVIN’ ON UP loans, a student health plan, a student food bank and used book sales, are an important part of the MSA’s devotion to the welfare of Mohawk students. “We wanted something different, eye-catching, to let people know we are here to serve them.” With planning taking several years and different MSA boards, the timing and financial opportunities finally allowed the commencement of work. Morgan Seele, current Alumni President, was on the MSA board during this exciting time. They identified that the upper level of the centre, specifically the media centre, was inadequate for the fully operational newspaper, advertising agency, and radio station. The administrative offices too, were disconnected and hidden from view making it more difficult for students to find, and use, the many services the MSA provides. Some upgrades, like the renovations to the Cellar in 1999 and the Arnie in 2000 had to take priority but

Gone is the interminable white line of the old, hard to find corridor that most students simply passed by on their way in and out. Doorways and walls are now slightly staggered and angled with more interior windows and an open, welcoming design.

finally, this year, the dream of changes finally made it off the board table and the drawing board, and are becoming reality. Key in the renovation’s mandate were visibility and accessibility of the administrative and media offices. Although they occupy the same amount of space as before, gone are the eighties style boxy rooms; gone is the interminable white line of the old, hard-to-find corridor that most students simply passed by on their way in and out. Doorways and walls are now slightly staggered and angled with more interior windows and an open, welcoming design. What was formerly MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 29 MOVIN’ ON UP

Pictured above: (L) Lou Molinero, C101.5 FM DJ, Wednesdays 9-4; (Centre-inset) Cover of the C10 wasted space has been re-configured and Now, as C101.5 FM a compilation of bands making a name re-assigned and will also include more for themselves in the Hamilton and student area in the way of a quiet study it operates as an surrounding area. lounge. The entire concept encourages instructional station Adjacent to C101.5FM will be a fully student traffic. with a look and sound digitized Satellite, the MSA-sponsored Students arriving at the Student Centre student newspaper. The Satellite is an preparing to enter the campus for the indistinguishable from its institution of sorts, beginning its days as fall semester, (still known as G Wing in professional counterparts. “Opus” when Mohawk was still known the college) will soon be greeted with as the Hamilton Institute of Technology glass walls revealing not only brand new, The design of the new or HIT. Many alumni will remember it spacious reception areas, but they will be space will mimic the fondly as it evolved into “The Phoenix” able to watch the MSA’s functioning FM in the eighties. As The Satellite, it is radio station, C101.5, in full swing. “store front” style now produced and distributed weekly to “It’s leading-edge radio technology in being employed at other each of Mohawk’s campuses. Adline, the a college environment,” says a proud Les mainstream stations. advertising agency, was conceived and Palango, Station Manager and one of the is continuing to be run by advertising full-time administrative staff employed other mainstream stations. students, who help design and sell the by the MSA. Mohawk College graduates Palango manages a staff of about 50 bread and butter advertising for the from the early eighties (Yes - we know students and volunteers that include media centre. who you are!) will remember the alumni who still come back and voluntarily Across the hall, close to its original fledgling station broadcasting only into host weekly radio shows. Once a Radio position, will be the main reception the C Wing student lounge. Later, with Broadcasting student himself, Palango area and offices for the Student Centre the help of cable, and a real broadcast was offered his first radio job while in his managers and co-ordinators, who count booth looking high over the Arnie in second year of the program. Debating his among themselves several Mohawk the new Student Centre, CHMR began future, he turned to his then instructor College alumni, including Wendy Rolfe, broadcasting to the great big world and mentor, Norm Marshall, who gave Student Services Co-ordinator, who was outside the campus. Now, as C101.5 FM this simple advice – “Take it!” Now he is a Director on our own Alumni board and it operates as an instructional station a student mentor and instructor himself helped establish the 25-Year Club reunion. with a look and sound indistinguishable in a station that prides itself in promoting The MSA executive, board offices and from its professional counterparts. The the alternative music of local talent. boardroom will continue to be side by design of the new space will mimic the Earlier this year, as a celebration of their side with the full-time staff with whom “store front” style now being employed at fifth year as a FM station they produced they commune on daily basis. Earlier this their own CD, “Sounds of the Hammer,” year, Heath Hall, (named after Ray Heath, 30 MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 MOVIN’ ON UP one of the founding members of the SUC, Corporate Secretary and Advisor to Your Alumni Association would the Association for 30 years) was opened like to Keep In Touch with you! for student use. Its retro style booths and Submit your e-mail* address using mellow, plum coloured atmosphere also Email the online form on our website.You boasts a big screen TV. will be entered into a draw to win While the Student Centre renovations alumni apparel. will help it become more accessible to Contest http://www.mohawkcollege.ca/ students, it also demonstrates the level of alumni/connections/contest.html professionalism that has been achieved by many years of active student government. Contest closes October 31, 2004 Not only does it run a fully, self-contained Winners will be announced in the In Touch entertainment complex and media centre, magazine’s Spring 2005 issue.*One e-mail it is also an active member of the College address submission per person please Student Alliance, a group of Canadian college student leaders who are actively advocating for better solutions to the hardships facing Ontario college students. Its Board of Directors includes the MSA’s current VP of Finance, Keith Burt, who is also overseeing the nearly $1 million Alumni and Staff: go to www.ticats.ca/groups renovation budget. enterenter promotionpromotion password:password: mohawkmohawk SpecialSpecial pricesprices andand discountsdiscounts inin allall The MSA continues to be the pride of seatingseating categoriescategories forfor allall games.games. the Mohawk College Alumni Association Students:Students: which, for 20 years, was a recipient of $10 for a Sideline Reserved ticket (Must(Must showshow studentstudent ID,ID, dayday ofof gamegame atat its ongoing success as one of its funded boxbox office.office. LimitLimit 11 perper student.)student.) subsidiaries. Several of the MSA’s past presidents and board members joined the alumni association’s board after graduating and continue to devote their 905-547-CATS time to ensuring the delivery of services www.ticats.ca and activities to their fellow graduates.

MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 31 turn up the

By: ANGUS GILLESPIE n Touch caught up with Chris’s father was a professional Mohawk alumnus Chris engineer, specializing in Dennis during the dog metallurgy. He had been a 13- days of summer in early year employee of Atlas Specialty IAugust just after he’d returned Steel Mill in Welland prior to from vacation. A quick scan of the move overseas. The family the 300 waiting emails was his H EAT had been back in Niagara for a stark reminder it was time to get back to Club, who was a real estate salesman, had while and Phil had often thought of going work at H & S Heat Treating, a company casually approached Phil Dennis. A light into business for himself. That’s exactly he co-owns. industrial plant was for sale in Welland, what he did. For over three decades, H & S Heat and Phil was asked for advice on where to By the mid 1970s, H & S Heat Treating Treating in Port Robinson at the south list such a property, having worked as an was looking to expand operations, having end of Thorold has been providing engineer for much of his life. The 2,500 outgrown its small industrial space. industries with a single source of square-foot company was called H&S But when the company went looking complete, highly efficient and reliable Heat Treating. The two main principals at options for expansion, although services relative to their very diverse heat were at loggerheads over how the supported by Welland City Council, the treating requirements. The company was purchased 35 years ago by Chris’s parents, Phil and Fran The entire experience at Mohawk was Dennis, and now their sons Colin, who extremely rewarding, from the in- is president and Chris, vice president of sales and marketing, handle day-to-day class instruction to playing sports and operations. Chris assumes the same title at a sister company called Nitrex participating in social activities on campus. Metal Technologies in Burlington. Both companies are co-owned by the brothers and their brother-in-law David Orosz, company should move forward. When it newly passed zoning by-laws prohibited who serves as Nitrex Metal Technologies became apparent the stalemate couldn’t any further expansion at that location. president. be resolved, it was decided they would In 1975, H & S relocated its operations Chris took the Metallurgical each sell their stake in the operation and to a larger 5,000 square-foot facility in Port Engineering Technology course from move on in separate directions to pursue Robinson. Equipment was added, and 1976 to 1979 at Mohawk and says there’s other ventures. the company expanded its market focus. no doubt his father had a large impact The timing was perfect for Phil. Three The core capabilities were also extended on the direction his career path would years earlier he had moved his family to meet the most critical application follow. back to Pelham after spending three years needs, such as those associated with the It all began innocently enough in in Switzerland where he represented nuclear and aerospace industries. In 1969, after a friend from the local Lion’s Atlas Steels in both Europe and Asia. the years that followed, H & S grew with 32 MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 MOHAWK ALUMNUS TURNS UP THE HEAT the companies it served, in some cases, 1970s there were only 12 to 14 kids who world. A bunch of my friends ended up extending or replacing customers' in- graduated,” Chris recalls. “About 20 kids working at either Dofasco or Stelco.” house heat treating capabilities with H & started in first year, but by third year they As demanding as the course was, Chris S services. felt it was important to keep a balanced After high school, Chris followed in “It was definitely a lifestyle. He enjoyed athletics and a social his father’s footsteps and those of his life, and put his 6’1” frame to good use, older brother Colin, who is a PEng in hands-on course,” playing three years on the men’s basketball Metallurgy, with a degree from Queen’s team and serving as team captain in his University in Kingston. With no hesitation Chris confirms. “We last year. “Wes Hicks was our coach that whatsoever, he says the entire experience had our own foundry year, and we had a lot of fun.” at Mohawk was extremely rewarding, “I lived near campus and the old from the in-class instruction to playing for casting and we Arnold Centre was a great place to hang sports and participating in social activities out,” Chris remembers. “Back then it was on campus. were able to cast our the old one and it was about the size of “The course is now called Mechanical a fruit cellar. A friend named Botch and and Industrial Engineering at Mohawk,” own beer mugs and I hung out there on Saturday nights and notes Chris, who remains on the advisory ash trays. flung beer.” committee for the program. Meetings are Another of Chris’s interesting school held twice a year with successful graduates had branched off into other areas. But activities involved harness racing. “We of the school providing suggestions on there were at least 40 jobs available, so never really had any training,” he notes. “I what aspects of the course school officials finding work was not difficult.” got to represent Ontario at Lower Sackville should focus to ensure today’s students “It was definitely a hands-on course,” Downs, just outside Halifax, Nova Scotia, are up-to-date with the latest technologies Chris confirms. “We had our own during the 1978-79 season which was a and methodologies. “I started as a student foundry for casting and we were able to lot of fun. We also raced in London and rep and when I graduated they asked me cast our own beer mugs and ash trays. Dr. Kawartha Downs in Peterborough.” to come in.” Dedo headed up the program, which was Chris recalls that H & S was still quite “When I took the course back in the excellent. It prepared us well for the real small when he graduated and so his father,

Chris Dennis shows off H&S’s new Bar Straightening machine to be used for a new project starting in January.

MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 33 brother and he took part in all aspects of years. & S achieved its QS9000 and ISO9002 the business. “I started in production, In 1995, H & S began production at Registration. “Rigid testing, inspection then went to quality control,” Chris says. a 10,000-square foot location in Barrie. procedures and SPC techniques are “As the company grew, it was evident I The Barrie facility grew to over 26,000 employed throughout H & S' operations,” had the gift of gab, so my dad pointed me square feet, and was primarily responsible Chris notes. “This ensures adherence to in the direction of marketing and sales. for performing induction (high & low customer specifications and consistently It seemed like a natural fit for me.” The high levels of product quality and company now has a staff of about 60. “As the company performance.” A significant landmark year for H & In the year 2000, a new era began at H S Heat Treating was 1990, when Nitrex grew, it was evident & S Heat Treating, with the introduction Metal Technologies was created. The of CNC machining to the plant floor. principals who got the new venture off I had the gift of gab, The CNC machining is part of a special the ground were; Chris, his father Phil project between H & S and one of its and brother-in-law David. It began in so my dad pointed key customers. The project incorporates a small corner of H & S' facilities, but me in the direction induction heat treating with CNC within five years had outgrown that and machining via a customized robot. was moved to its current Burlington of marketing and Today, both H & S and Nitrex Metal location. Nitrex Metal Technologies has Technologies are involved with multi- about 35 employees, and has become one sales. It seemed like million dollar upgrades for new of the largest single-service heat-treating a natural fit for me.” automotive contracts. shops in North America. Each year Chris lives in Fenwick, Ontario, just Nitrex Metal Technologies uses co-op frequency) and deep-case carburizing south of St. Catharines, with his wife students from Mohawk while H & S Heat services. For strategic purposes the Dana, 17-year-old son Tyler and 14-year- Treating elicits the help of students from plant was closed in December, 2001 with old daughter Brittany. As for his father Niagara College as well as Mohawk, some various production aspects moved to Port Phil, who is now 78, he likes to spend his of whom have gone on to attain full-time Robinson to consolidate operations. free time flying his vintage 1948 Stinson employment with the companies over the Another big year was 1999 when H airplane. Advertising Rate Card Advertise with In Touch Magazine In Touch Alumni Magazine is distributed to 40,000 Mohawk College alumni through Canada Post Do you want to reach a market that is educated, upwardly mobile and possessesAD SPE Cabove-averageIFICATIONS & ORIENTATION income potential? In Touch is a quality publication produced two times a year, and reaches an audience of over 40,000 Mohawk College

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94 Church Street, St. Catharines, Ontario L2R 3C8 Phone: 905-682-7798| Fax: 905-641-2588 | 1-866-854-IDEA MOHAWK IN MEMORIAM A FIGHTER, A FRIEND Mohawk mourns the passing of MPP Dominic Agostino

amilton-East Liberal MPP for five years. far longer than I even realized when Dominic Agostino had In 1995, Agostino was elected to the I first became friends with Dominic. a lifelong passion for Ontario legislature as a member of They returned him in every election for politics. Even as a young provincial parliament for Hamilton- a reason. He never forgot who sent him, Hcity councillor in Hamilton, the Mohawk East, and was re-elected in 1999 and whether it was on the school board or at graduate imagined himself sitting in 2003. He served as critic for community city council or in this place. Queen’s Park. His bulldog political style and social services, environment and “He was a small-l liberal's Liberal. and ready wit earned him a reputation as labour, management board and housing; He cared passionately about the an outstanding Liberal legislator with a he also served as chief whip of the disadvantaged. I can tell you that in our true calling for public service. Hailed as official opposition. Since October 2003, first year in government he was Mike a fighter for the disadvantaged, he will he acted as Parliamentary Assistant to Harris' worst nightmare. He never, be remembered in Hamilton and across the Minister of the Environment under regardless of the political consequences, the province as a man who stood by his Premier Dalton McGuinty. backed down from fighting for what he politics and his principles. Agostino gained his reputation as a believed in, whether it was popular or Agostino, 43, died March 24, 2004, of political fighter early. Following his 1995 not.” liver cancer. election as an MPP for Hamilton-East, Fred Deys remembers Dominic well. “I Born in Italy, Agostino was the son the feisty politician had to be sworn met Dominic on a number of occasions. of a steelworker who came to Hamilton into office a month after his fellow He was outgoing and confident. He was at the age of nine. He was educated at Liberal colleagues. He refused to take good at what he did. He enjoyed meeting the Cathedral Boys High School and an oath that swore allegiance only to the people. He helped the average person graduated from the Social Service Worker monarchy, insisting that he wanted to whenever he could. He was passionate Program at Mohawk College before add Canada to the pledge. Eventually, he about public life. With the President’s working as a rehabilitation counsellor swore two separate oaths in order to take new emphasis on citzenship, I ccan’t with the Ontario March of Dimes. his seat. think of a person who better exemplifies Around the Mohawk campus, Dominic When he ran for office again in the qualities that we would like to instill left a strong impression. Dick Capling, last October’s election, Agostino was in our students more than Dominc” a retired professor, as well as Chair and sidelined with pneumonia in the early Agostino’s sudden death came as a Dean of the College, remembers: days of the race, orchestrating part of his shock -- few people outside his family “In the classroom, he came across campaign from his hospital bed while and staff even knew that he was seriously as both naïve and trusting – he always his team continued on the trail without ill. And when the news came at Queen’s believed he could do something. He him. He was released from hospital and Park, politicians across the board had was very genuine, very serious, and promptly re-elected for a third term, difficulty accepting the loss of their thoroughly liked by those around him.” and was also appointed parliamentary energetic colleague. Agostino gained notice quickly after assistant by Environment Minister Leona In his eulogy, McGuinty celebrated graduating from Mohawk. At only 20 Dombrowsky. Agostino’s commitment to his work, years of age, he was elected as a trustee Respect for his work ran through the noting how much he loved a political to the Hamilton-Wentworth Separate Ontario legislature and across party battle. Among other political figures School Board, where he served three lines. Among his closest friends was at his funeral were former provincial terms. John Baird, a PC Member of Provincial premiers Ernie Eves and David Peterson, He was elected to Hamilton City Parliament from Nepean-Carleton, who and current New Democratic leader Council and Hamilton-Wentworth paid homage to Agostino’s unfailing Howard Hampton. Regional Council in a by-election in commitment to his community: Agostino leaves behind his mother 1987, and was re-elected in 1988, 1991 “Dominic was someone who was Theresa, brother Ralph, sister Mary and and 1994. As alderman, in addition to tremendously proud of his background, his beloved nieces and nephews. chairing numerous committees and task tremendously proud of his hometown of We at Mohawk College will miss forces, he served as chair of the Regional Hamilton and the east end of Hamilton, him dearly – and extend our heartfelt Health and Social Services Committee who had elected him for some 22 years, sympathies to his family and friends.

MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 35 keeping in TOUCH

Applied Music Presently, Cindy is an active Board to China to teach and travel. They LauraWhere Thomas are they now? member on the Mohawk College Board recently moved to Edmonton where she (1981 Applied Music) of Governors. works as a Child and Youth Worker at Upon graduating from Mohawk College, Bosco Homes. The couple have a one- Laura earned her Bachelor of Music Kathleen (Newman) Russell year old daughter named Fiona. degree from McMaster University (’86), (1998 Office Administration–Executive) then joined the Niagara Symphony as Kathleen works at The Synapse Group as Early Childhood Education Principal Percussionist. She received her an Office Administrator. Kathleen and Michelle (Montague) Czarkowski Master of Fine Arts in Conducting (‘03). Glen were married on June 9, 2001. They (1992 Early Childhood Education) Laura is a Conductor for the Junior have a daughter, Meghan, born on May After graduation, Michelle attended Niagara Youth Orchestra, Camerata 5, 2002. and graduated from Brock University’s (Hamilton Suzuki School), and is Linguistics Program. In 1996, Michelle currently Associate Conductor with the Lori Wright married Richard Czarkowski, and in 1998 Niagara Symphony. (2001 Office Administration) gave birth to their son, Hudson. Michelle works for the Region of Durham with the Central East Preschool Autism Business Studies Services. She is a Senior Therapist and Michael Genery now supervises six staff and five clinical (1997 Business Studies) programs. In February 2004, a daughter, Michael is currently employed at Standard Taylor Isobel, was born. Michelle’s Parking of Canada Ltd. as an Assistant future goal is to complete her Master’s in Manager. On September 8, 2003, Michael Behavioural Sciences. proposed to Rebecca Morelli with plans to marry on June 4, 2005. Best wishes to Lori is currently employed at the Jodi (Stark) Walsh Michael and Rebecca! Mohawk-McMaster Institute for Applied (1995 Early Childhood Education) Health Sciences in the Continuing Jodi has been married for nine years, has Cindy Swanson Education Department, as an Assistant three boys and lives in Port Rowan. Jodi (1983 Business Accounting) (Access for MLT). On September 27, has been out of touch with classmates and Cindy is currently the General Manager 2003, Lori married Edward Wright, a would like to be updated. She says “hello” of Enterprise Brant, a community futures Mohawk student, who will complete and wants to hear from you. Jodi’s email corporation. Through Continuing the Computer Engineering Technology address is [email protected] Education programs at Mohawk College, Program in September 2004.

Child and Youth Worker Engineering Technology Kristina Tadijanovich Ted Billiald (2004 Child and Youth Worker) (1979 Motive Power Technology) Kristina is currently employed at After graduating from Mohawk College, St. Leonard’s Community Services, Ted worked at International Harvester Albion Street Residence as a Residential Canada in the Engineering Department. Counsellor. On February 14, 2004, In 1984, Ted moved to Muskoka to work Raymond Guthrie proposed to Kristina for Muskoka Ready-Mix and is currently with plans to marry in July 2005. Best Plant Manager. Ted and wife, Brenda, wishes to Kristina and Raymond! have two sons, ages 19 and 22. Ted’s family enjoys their lakefront property on Katrina (Connell) Fleming Long Lake, near Charlton, Ontario. (1997 Child and Youth Worker) After graduation, Katrina was employed Bronko Jazvac at the Hamilton Children’s Aid Society (1978 Industrial Management (CAS) and Catholic Children’s Aid Technology) Cindy has developed her skills in human Society (CCAS). Katrina re-located to Bronko began his career in the Graduate resources, computers and public New Brunswick, where she worked as a Training Program at Dofasco in 1978, relations. She has chaired and held many Child and Youth Worker for three years. and has held the position of General Board positions in her community. In 2001, Katrina and her husband moved Manager of Manufacturing Services since

36 MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 1998. Bronko Chris has been employed for over five Jady graduated from the Liberal Studies has served years in a high Certificate Program in 1991 and received as Niagara level security her Career Consultant Advanced District Chair position for Certificate through Continuing and two-time M o h a w k Education in 2002. Jady is a McMaster National Board Racetrack. Skills University Sociology alumnus currently of Directors gained from the working at Mohawk College as an member of the Mohawk College Employment Advisor, teaching in the Association of Law and Security Career Consultant Program. “With an Iron and Steel Program assisted education, the sky is the limit!” Technology. Chris to ease He is a long- through his on- Nursing time member the-job training. Valerie Woolvett of the Ontario Chris enjoys his job, but most particularly (1975 Nursing) As s o c i a t i o n enjoys working with the public. Chris is Valerie graduated from the first Diploma of Certified proud to be a Mohawk grad and would Nursing Program at Mohawk College. Technologists like to keep in touch with his classmates She moved to Galveston, Texas, for a few and Technicians and currently serves as from the 1994-1996 Law and Security years, then onto Seattle, Washington. Vice Chair of the Mohawk College Board Program. Chris can be contacted at cdp_ Valerie is currently employed at the of Governors. [email protected] University of Washington Medical Centre, as an RN II, for the In-Patient Law and Security Liberal Studies Rehabilitation Unit, specializing in CVA, Chris Pomay Jady Klyve TBI, SCI. She has held this position for (1996 Law and Security) (1991 Liberal Studies) more than 20 years.

Keeping In Touch Contest www.mohawkcollege.ca/alumni [email protected].

Keep in touch! Send in a brief update* about yourself, your family, or your career. Several updates will be randomly selected and published in the In Touch Magazine’s Spring 2005 issue. You will receive a gift if your update is published! Please submit your updates (40-50 word update, with photo if possible) by e-mail at [email protected] or by fax at 905-575-2443. Contest closes November 15, 2004. Winners will be notified in January 2005.

We want to keep you “In Touch” with all our Mohawk Grads. Please help us by filling out the following information form. You can also reach us at our website www.mohawkcollege.ca/alumni or by email at [email protected].

Name: ______Maiden Name:______Program: ______Year Graduated:______Address:______Apt.______City:______Province:______Postal Code:______Phone:______Email:______Employer:______Bus. Address:______City:______Province:______Postal Code:______Bus. Phone:______Bus. Email:______Yes! I am interested in being: Gradvisor* � Convocation Speaker � Featured in “Keeping in Touch” � *Gradvisor – An Alumnus who is interested in lending a hand to fellow Alumni, and/or students at Mohawk College.

Are you getting married? Starting a family? Have a new job or promotion? Looking for an old classmate? Let us know what is going on in your life and, if possible, throw in a photo! ______In accordance with section 39(2) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 1987 the personal information recorded in this form is collected and Universities Act R.S.O. 1980, c272 and R.R.O 1980, Reg 640. The information is used for administrative and statistical purposes of the Alumni Relations Department, The College and/or the ministries and agencies of the governments of Ontario and Canada. I have read the above and I hereby authorize the release of information contained herein or collected from a third party (such as a family member) to be the aforementioned.

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MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 37 looking BACK

Reflections on the Mohawk Experience

Architectural Alumni “STEEL” the Spotlight

By Kym McCreary-Stewart

s a student of Mohawk College They found themselves spending a great undertaking this project? “We felt that it of Applied Arts and Technology, deal of time together since they required was better to ask forgiveness rather than Ayou have probably passed it a access to the necessary crafts of their permission”, responds Mr. Stodolak with hundred times, wandering the grounds trade and various other resources only a smile. of the Fennell Campus. For the greater located at the campus. As a result, they As for the collective vision of these part of the last 31 years, it has sat on the became a closely-knit group. It came to aspiring architectural technologists, the grass just north of the West 5th entrance. them one day as they sat anticipating sculpture is meant to represent The City It is one of those campus landmarks that their futures. They would plan and of Hamilton. The utilization of the steel you see but, well, because it’s just part of design a memorial to mark their legacy relates back to Hamilton’s long association the “architecture”, you don’t really see. at Mohawk College and dedicate it back with the steel industry. The various If the picture here doesn’t conjure up to the community. Mr. Stodolak also sizes of cut stacked beams are meant to memories, the next time you happen to credits retired Chair Surjit Mendiratta depict Hamilton’s skyline and, similarly, pass by make sure you have a good look. for inspiring them during their years the scattering of nails around the base, It is guaranteed to be one of those, “Oh at the College. “Mohawk was at the symbolizes the people of Hamilton. The yeah, I remember that thing!” moments. forefront of innovation at the time”, says structure includes the students’ future Designed and erected by one of the Mr. Stodolak, “and we were anxious to vision of the City of Hamilton, its growth first graduating Architectural Technology practice our knowledge and skills. Also and development. classes at the newly constructed Fennell Chair Mendiratta encouraged us to give When asked if he feels the alumni’s Campus, the monument was created in back to the community.” original vision is still applicable today, spring 1973. Dubbed “The Steel City The students each took on tasks Mr. Stodolak replies, “Definitely, but a Sculpture” by the same group, it remains within the project, whether it was going metamorphosis has occurred. Hamilton a quiet testament to all Mohawk’s alumni out into the community and obtaining was once primarily the Steel City but is today. the necessary material donations from now also recognized for its educational With no visible tribute how do we local businesses and industries, or and health focus. The sculpture know this for sure? Gene Stodolak, contributing to the design layout. The encompasses this evolution today.” Mohawk’s present-day Director of Co- welding equipment was borrowed from As for the pomp and ceremony usually operative Education and Graduate the College and one Saturday morning associated with these “donations,” there Employment, knows because he was in early spring, the cement truck pulled was none. According to Mr. Stodolak, one of the 19 architecture students who up to Mohawk and the students went to it took a few weeks for anyone to originally embarked on the project. work. The sculpture was erected in one even acknowledge the existence of the According to Mr. Stodolak, the pre- day. structure! Perhaps after almost 31 years, graduate group concocted the scheme Was permission granted from the it is time to recognize these talented during their final term at Mohawk. necessary administration prior to alumni.

38 MOHAWK COLLEGE: IN TOUCH | FALL 2004 Pick Up and Drop off at Mohawk College main entrance Bus will leave Mohawk at 5:00 p.m. and will return around 11:30 p.m.

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Free services for employers including: • On-line job postings • Job and career fairs • On-campus interview facilities • Employer days

Now located in the new Information Technology Centre of Mohawk College, room i110

http://coop.mohawkcollege.ca http://grad-employment.mohawkcollege.ca education @ work