SPRING 2012 scent a Alumni Magazine

Ryan Gomes reaches medal heights in London SG_JI_CCAA_Mar12_HA_FINAL.ai 1 27/03/12 4:38 PM

centennialcollege.ca/alumni TABLE of contents

Published by: Centennial College Alumni Association ] message from P.O. Box 631, Station A Alumni President [ Toronto, ON M1K 5E9 Managing Editor: 2 Krista Newton 416-289-5218 [email protected]

Director of Marketing and Communications: Shahid Chowdhury ] message from Editor: Centennial College Carol J. Anderson President [ Wordstyle Productions [email protected] 3 Advertising: Krista Newton 416-289-5218 [email protected]

Contributors: Alvin Guthrie ] alumni profile Ann Buller Krista Newton Carlos Benevides [ Leanna Rizzi Mark Toljagic Mary Jo Bryant Penny Kirlik 6 Vish Amin 8 – Profile: Andrea Beneteau

10 – Profile: Ryan Gomes table of contents 12 – Alumni Events

15 – Alumnus of Distinction Awards

19 – Student Awards Night 2011

21 – Alumni Benefits and Services

ascent® magazine, with a circulation of 65,000, is published semi-annually by Centennial College Alumni Association. It is delivered free of charge to Centennial graduates, students and staff to encourage interaction with each other and the college, and to facilitate lifelong learning and career development. The ideas and opinions published herein do not necessarily reflect those of the Association or Centennial College. All material is ©2012 and may be reprinted with permission of the Managing Editor. Advertising rates are also available from the Managing Editor. We do not sell or rent the alumni database to third parties. Please contact the Centennial College Alumni Office at 416-289-5218 if you do not want to receive the magazine or would like to update your mailing address.

] Centennial First, Alumni Forever [ 1 Alvin Guthrie President of the Alumni Association ]ascent[

The Centennial College Alumni Association (CCAA) has This year, we were thrilled to host a series of special events been fortunate to see many of its dreams and endeavors that appealed to a variety of alumni. Our outings covered bear fruit this year. With the completion of the College’s a wide range of themes, including wine tastings at Cave state-of-the-art library and the Centennial College Springs Cellars in Niagara and Ocala Winery in Port Perry, Student Association Inc. (CCSAI) Athletic and Wellness and a ski trip to Blue Mountain. This summer, we are ann Buller Centre (AWC), we were able to share in the joys and organizing a trip to Canada’s Wonderland on its Family President & CEO, Centennial College triumphs by solidifying our space on campus with the Day, and, in the fall, a Raptors basketball game. And Alumni Courtyard, Alumni Clock, and, most recently, the coming in October, we will be hosting Homecoming Alumni Media Wall, in the main corridor of the AWC. weekend, which promises to be filled with fun and What better way to show our connectivity than to include a musical “blast from the past” in our Alumni sponsor the courtyard that joins these two magnificent Homecoming Concert. structures. These contributions are a testament to our If you’re interested in playing a more active role in the ongoing efforts to strengthen the bonds between CCAA, please join us at the Annual General Meeting on CCSAI and the Centennial College family. June 23, 2012. Make your voice heard and elect the This past year has been a transformative one for Centennial College, marked by the opening of our Library These key strategic objectives were identified a number alumni you think can best represent your interests. We are and Academic Facility, as well as the CCSAI’s Athletic and Wellness Centre at the Progress Campus. These of years ago by Board members; their aim was to always looking for fresh faces and great ideas — why not two remarkable buildings are connected by way of the new Alumni Courtyard that features a groundwater- provide solid benefits to alumni. And, over the years, it yours? Email us at [email protected] and keep friendly surface, sitting areas and our beautiful Alumni Clock. has become clear how, together, we can accomplish so in touch! much. I encourage you to stay connected, take part, and By design, the courtyard has become a welcome new meeting place for students and staff. Centennial’s take advantage of some of the benefits available to you. Alumni Association generously donated funds to help create the courtyard, and then went a step further by We’re always working to bring you even more benefits Alvin Guthrie offering the gift of the freestanding clock. This elegant interpretation of a traditional clock forms the focal and services. President, Centennial College Alumni Association point of our avant-garde, modern courtyard – lovely symbolism demonstrating new and time-honoured technology co-existing in harmony. These architectural marvels complement the amazing work being done inside our walls as Centennial College continues to earn civic, provincial and national accolades. In May 2011, both our International Department and our RPN to BScN Bridging to University Nursing program received Awards of Excellence ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING from the Association of Canadian Community Colleges. In addition, Vicki Bismilla, Vice President Academic and Chief Learning Officer, was inducted into the Scarborough Walk of Fame in recognition of her years of Graduates of Centennial College are invited to the Annual General Meeting of the Centennial commitment to education. This past February, the IPAC/Deloitte Public Sector Leadership Awards bestowed College Alumni Association a national gold award upon Centennial for our Youth and Community Engagement Relationships Model, our community outreach strategy that supports the popular summer HYPE program and First Generation Saturday June 23, 2012 Student project. 10 a.m.–12 p.m. As a graduate of Centennial, you can share in these successes. Alumni have an important role to play in our 2nd-floor boardroom mission, “To educate students for career success,” and our vision of “Transforming lives and communities Student Centre, Progress Campus through learning.” You can share your expertise by participating in advisory committees or being a guest • Free Parking speaker, and you can act as a recruiter for your industry. You can also support Centennial financially. • Light Refreshments Scholarships generously supported by our alumni allow deserving recipients – like those who benefit from our Youth and Community Engagement Relationship Model – to achieve their educational goals. AGENDA President’s Report When you read the success stories in this issue of ascent, think about how you can help to support the next Treasurer’s Report generation of high achievers. Please continue to stay in touch with Centennial ... you are a vital part of our Approval of Bylaws success story! Adoption of 2012–13 Budget Committee Reports For more information, contact the Alumni Office at Election of Directors 416-289-5218 or visit www.centennialcollege.ca/alumni Ann Buller

2 ] Centennial First, Alumni Forever [ ] Centennial First, Alumni Forever [ 3 HIRE THE BEST Alumni Board Members The Future of Learning

Hire a Graduate or Co-op Student – We make it simple. When you work with Centennial we will: • advertise your job postings • provide you with résumés of qualified candidates • arrange interviews • Provide recruitment opportunities such as career fairs & networking events

Additional bene ts include: • Over 100 programs provide qualified graduates with leading edge skills • Also available over 25 co-op programs offered Alvin Guthrie Mary Jo Bryant SM Hasanuzzoha (Hasan) Donna Robertson in different disciplines President Vice President Treasurer Chair • Access to a $3,000 refundable coop tax credit

Contact us today. Career Services & Co-operative Education [email protected] Phone: 416-289-5233 centennialcollege.ca

Shahid Chowdhury Sharron Reeve Joan Healey Mainul Chowdhury Director of Marketing Director of Special Events Secretary Director at Large and Communications

PHOTO NOT AVAILABLE

Anna Nawrocki Mujibor Rahman Golam Hossain Munir Ahm Director at Large Director at Large Director at Large Director at Large Show your Alumni Card and with a purchase of any The Centennial College Alumni Association (CCAA) • In October 2011, we held our first annual service over $20, receive a free eyebrow wax (valued at is run by a 12-member Board of Directors. On June Alumni Homecoming, to open the new $11). Give a SASS gift card for any special occasion! 25, 2011, the Board held its annual general meeting. Alumni Courtyard. The Alumni Clock is a beautiful new centrepiece for the courtyard We welcomed five new members: Golam Sohrab and it made for a great backdrop for photos Hossain, Mainul Chowdhury, Mujibor Rahman, taken at convocation. Munir Ahm, and Shahid Chowdhury. We look forward to them sharing their time and expertise • The Board decided to offer new events to with the board. alumni in the new year, including a Centennial Colts basketball game, two wine tours, and to book an appointment please contact During the past year, CCAA achieved many of a ski trip to Blue Mountain. Many of these 416.289.5000 | ext. 3530 or sass @centennialcollege.ca the goals set out in its strategic plan, including the events sold out quickly; we look forward to following: holding more in the near future. summer hours | monday - friday | 10 am - 6 pm fall/winter hours | monday - friday | 10 am - 7 pm • The Board introduced a new alumni scholarship For more information about CCAA and its Board centennial college athletic & wellness centre, upper level for single parents. CCAA now offers 11 different of Directors, call us at 416-289-5218, or visit our 941 progress avenue | toronto, on | m1g 3t8 scholarships. website: www.centennialcollege.ca/alumni.

4 ] Centennial First, Alumni Forever [ ] Centennial First, Alumni Forever [ 5 carlos Carlos Benevides Radio, Television and Film, benevides 1995

A Radio Voice Reaches Into the Benevides also had an interest in film and From serving up hot meals at St. John’s Kitchen, television, and appreciated the attention to mulching trees for Evergreen, to spending Community that Centennial’s program gave to all three quality time at the KW Lions Club with seniors broadcasting media. He even did his field who have no family, Benevides cheerfully placement at a film company, Mbz Productions, worked with each organization in whatever instead of at a radio station. But he soon capacity they needed him to fill. ] [ began to miss his first love. ascent “My goal was a call to action, to show that it’s In August 1998, Benevides found a job at easy to donate your time—even if it’s just an Toronto radio station The Edge 102.1, just hour a week,” Benevides says. “As a public two months after graduating from Centennial. figure, it is important to give back and to be a Radio, Television Six months later, he took hold of the leader by motivating and inspiring others to do microphone on the overnight shift. Benevides the same.” and Film, 1995 eventually landed a morning spot on The Beat Benevides documented all 30 of his experiences Breakfast with Kitchener’s 91.5 The Beat. And on his blog and spoke about them on his last November, it became apparent to him morning show. “This is why I do radio: I get that radio wasn’t his only passion. to speak about my amazing experiences and  profile “At Centennial, we were taught to always have influence listeners to do the same. I am very a positive attitude and to work as hard as fortunate.” possible.” Benevides heeded that advice and By Leanna Rizzi In recognition of his dedication to this took on a personal challenge inspired by a unique project, Benevides recently received New York radio DJ to complete 30 deeds in The Care Forward Award from the United Way 30 days. In the spirit of the holiday season, Ask Carlos Benevides what led him to a career but never lost sight of his goal. When the of Kitchener-Waterloo & Area. When asked Benevides worked at a different community in radio and he’ll tell you that he just knew timing was right, he left Ottawa and applied if he will do it all again next year, Benevides organization in the Kitchener-Waterloo region it was the path he was meant to take. And by to Centennial’s Broadcasting and Film program declared without hesitation, “Definitely!” studying broadcasting and film at Centennial in 1995. every day for a month, to help raise awareness of College, Benevides, now the morning-show community services and volunteerism. “Centennial’s reputation is excellent, and host at Kitchener’s 91.5 The Beat, was able to it was definitely the best school for me,” pursue his calling. Benevides says, crediting the school’s emphasis “Being a radio announcer was always my on hands-on learning with its four-month field dream job,” Benevides says. “It’s what I’ve placement program as the biggest selling point. wanted to do since I was a kid.” “Learning about the industry first and then going into the field to really learn about the Although he periodically took other career profession hands-on was very important to profile file paths, Benevides was always lured back to me.” Benevides was also impressed with the his first love. He spent four years at Carleton College’s use of the latest equipment and University studying psychology and English, technology. pro

6 ] Centennial First, Alumni Forever [ ] Centennial First, Alumni Forever [ 7 andrea profile  beneteau Andrea Beneteau featuring Pre-Hospital Andrea says that what she learned at Centennial was crucial to her success. “The Ambulance clinical portion of the course was extremely helpful. It allowed me to apply all my skills & Emergency and knowledge in real-life situations. And it taught me how to talk to patients, as well as Care, 1991 treat them. Part of the program required us to ride out for 220 hours with a paramedic tutor crew and ‘live the life,’ so to speak. And most of our teachers were paramedics themselves, which made the theory so ]ascent[ much easier to absorb.”

Andrea continued to work as a paramedic for the next five years. At that point, she decided she wanted a career change, however, and  set her sights on becoming a firefighter. profile

This new journey was not an easy one for Andrea. She felt that the odds were stacked By Krista Newton against her right from the start: Markham Fire and Emergency Services, to which she had applied, had never hired a female Andrea became the first female firefighter In her spare time, Andrea is a referee for By Krista Newton firefighter before. Writing the exams was a to be hired by Markham Fire and Emergency varsity basketball: While a student at straightforward process, and although the Services. She worked there for 12 years before Centennial, she was actively involved in In the late 1980s, Andrea Beneteau’s dream physical test was very challenging, she knew she became the designate fire captain—the sports and played on the women’s varsity was to become a paramedic. So she enrolled that a lifetime of being involved in sports first female fire captain in Markham’s history, basketball team. in Centennial’s Pre-Hospital Ambulance and fitness pursuits gave her an edge. The a position she has held since 2007. Andrea Her advice for other graduates? “Don’t give & Emergency Care program. Right after interview however, was intimidating: “I think manages a crew of firefighters. Her job is up on your dreams—anything is possible. graduation, she was hired by Toronto we all feel a bit uncomfortable when being different every day: she mentors, counsels, Be successful in the classroom and network Ambulance—luckily, just before a huge questioned by anyone in a uniform, especially leads, educates, and encourages the firefighters hiring freeze took effect. when it is for something you want so badly!” in their jobs, and shares her knowledge and whenever you can. You just never know what’s experience with her colleagues. around the next corner.”

profile file pro

8 ] Centennial First, Alumni Forever [ ] Centennial First, Alumni Forever [ 9 Ryan Gomes ryan Aircraft Maintenance, 2010 gomes

 profile Aircraft

By Mark Toljagic Maintenance, 2010

Ryan Gomes graduated from Centennial’s two-year Aircraft Maintenance program in ]ascent[ June 2010 and is currently working in the aircraft industry.

Nine months before London, England, hosts the world at the 2012 Summer Olympic Games, another international competition profile wrapped up in the British capital—  WorldSkills International. Team Canada distinguished itself with a fine performance that included a medal win by Ryan. CCAA sponsored him at Worldskills London 2011 by purchasing the tools he needed to Ryan Gomes earned a bronze medal in of Excellence at the 2009 WorldSkills compete, including his toolbox. Aircraft Maintenance. It was a long journey Competition held in Calgary. to London for Ryan: He qualified for the After four days of grueling competition, “Preparing for WorldSkills London 2011 has WorldSkills competition after winning gold the 30 young men and four women who been an intensive two-year training process medals at both the Ontario Technological made up Team Canada at WorldSkills for the 34 young competitors who make up Skills Competition and the subsequent London 2011, held last October, took Team Canada,” said Shaun Thorson, Chief Canadian Skills Competition last year. home an impressive four medals and Executive Officer of Skills/Compétences 17 Medallions of Excellence. It was the According to Skills/Compétences Canada, Canada. “With ongoing support from the biggest WorldSkills competition in the a national not-for-profit organization that Government of Canada, industry leaders, event’s 60-year history, with almost 1,000 actively promotes careers in skilled trades and educators, these talented young people young people from 51 nations showing and technologies, Ryan’s win at WorldSkills represent a bright future for Canada’s off their acquired skills in everything London 2011 contributed to Canada’s best skilled trade and technology workforce. from robotics to web design to cuisine overall performance at any WorldSkills We couldn’t be more proud!” to landscaping. Competition. Canada also won 13 Medallions

profile file pro

10 ] Centennial First, Alumni Forever [ ] Centennial First, Alumni Forever [ 11 Grand Opening of the AlumniAlumni Events events RecentAthletic and Wellness Events Centre Cave Spring Cellars Tour On October 17, 2011, the Centennial College Student Association Inc. (CCSAI) hosted a A beautiful day awaited the group of alumni grand opening of the brand-new Athletic and as they got off the bus in Jordan on February Wellness Centre (AWC) at Progress Campus. 4th. Jordan is in the heart of Ontario’s wine The event was a way to thank family, friends, country, and the group had come here to and all the people involved in bringing the experience both the village itself and its main AWC dream to life. winery, Cave Spring Cellars. CCAA Hosts Colts Varsity Basketball Game The evening began with a ceremonial tip-off After a tour of the village and a light lunch On January 25, 2012, the Centennial College that included past CCSAI presidents, past at the funky Zooma Zooma Café, the group Alumni Association (CCAA) hosted an alumni alumni Board members, and members of the gathered at the winery for a 20-minute night. The men’s and women’s Colts varsity College’s executive. Inspiring speeches were guided tour around the cellars. The tour was basketball teams took on rival Seneca College. made by Ann Buller, Centennial College’s followed by a wine and cheese tasting, after All alumni were presented with free Colts President; David Garner, Board of Governors which each alumnus received a $5 voucher T-shirts, and many other prizes were handed Chair; Alvin Guthrie, the Alumni Association for the wine shop. Many people in the group out over the course of the night. President; and Karan Warraich, the Student had never been to the Niagara area before Association President. Guests enjoyed food This is the first season that the Colts have and were very pleased with the opportunity stations set up by School of Hospitality, Tourism played in the new Athletic and Wellness to experience its charms. and Culture students. Centre (AWC) at Progress Campus. The men’s On the way home, snacks and water were team finished the regular season as East The new AWC is a great example of what shared and a few prizes were handed out. Regional Champions (18–2), earning a spot a group of people can do when they work The day ended with a promise of more fun in the quarter-finals. The women’s team collaboratively. The College’s students, staff, to come on upcoming tours. finished the regular season with four wins alumni, and community have been looking and 12 losses. forward to the opening for four years, and they were not disappointed: the beautiful The women’s team fought hard but new LEEDs Gold building can be used for ultimately lost 66–30. The men’s team played many different purposes. a great game, winning 77–55 over Seneca College. Between the two games, CCAA The Centennial College Alumni Association drew the names of four lucky alumni to (CCAA) was honoured when it was asked to participate in a shooting competition and participate in this project. Our alumni are proud a chance to win an iPad 2. Sarah Nualan of their contribution to the new courtyard that was the lucky winner. The other three stretches south of this building all the way participants didn’t walk away empty- towards the new library and the alumni clock. handed, though—they were all given Once the AWC was open, CCAA decided to alumni gift packs. We hope to see sponsor the media wall, located in the main more alumni come out to support hallway to the gym. The new Alumni Media the Colts next season! Wall comprises 13 55-inch televisions that support high-resolution images, videos, and graphics.

12 ] Centennial First, Alumni Forever [ ] Centennial First, Alumni Forever [ 13 ALUMNI HOMECOMING AlumniAward winnersA Concert The Alumnus of Distinction Award honours alumni who have completed a post-secondary program at October 13, 2012 Centennial College, shown extraordinary career success, and volunteered with a charity, non-profit organization, community organization, or at the College.

Each year, five awards are presented in each of the following areas: Applied Arts: Creative Arts and Design; Applied Arts: Community Service; Business; Health Sciences; and Technology. In 2011, the Centennial College Alumni Association (CCAA) added a new awards category: International Alumni. In June 2011, CCAA presented six alumni with this prestigious award during the convocation ceremonies at Progress Campus.

SAVE THE DATE!

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2012 liz West  CENTENNIAL COLLEGE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION WILL BE HOSTING IT’S 2ND ANNUAL ALUMNI HOMECOMING CONCERT IN THE

ATHLETIC & WELLNESS CENTRE AT PROGRESS CAMPUS. Liz West Liz is committed to using her communications School of Communications, Media and expertise to champion concerns at city hall too: For more information, contact the Alumni office at 416-289-5218 or visit Design: Corporate Communications, 1984 she was a candidate in the recent Toronto municipal elections. Liz lends her support to www.centennialcollege.ca/alumni Liz is a businesswoman and TV personality, known nationally and in Toronto as a news and several charities, including Rethink Breast Cancer, entertainment reporter. She has served as a Habitat for Humanity Toronto, SickKids, the Crohn’s correspondent for CityNews, CP24, and and Colitis Foundation of Canada, Look Good

Canada AM. As a journalist, Liz knows how to Feel Better, Canadian Blood Services, and Voice- find the facts; as a professional, she understands Print. Liz teaches in Centennial College’s Public business; and as a mother of two children, she Relations and Corporate Communications program relates to working families across our community. at The Centre for Creative Communications.

14 ] Centennial First, Alumni Forever [ ] Centennial First, Alumni Forever [ 15 Alumni of Distinction AlumniAward winnersA

Dave Peck School of Transportation, Motor Vehicle Mechanic: Advanced, 1978

Dave is the owner of Peck Brothers Automotive in Thornhill and lisa McNee Baker  Uxbridge. He always had an interest in cars. At the age of 21, Dave was the owner of a gas station with a two-bay garage, and had one technician working for him and his brother, who was a partner in the business. Dave realized that he would need proper training to run the business, and so he enrolled at Centennial College. In 1974, Peck Brothers purchased a Shell four-bay gas station in Uxbridge. Dave also became a licensed independent dealer of used cars. He later acquired Enco Auto Trim and Glass, which he combined with the Thornhill business to make it a one-stop shop: automotive trim and glass, mechanical repair and service station, and used-car sales. Dave has built a successful business through his ambition, hard work, talent, and great customer service.

david Peck 

Lisa McNee Baker Lisa began her career as a developmental School of Community and Health Studies: nursery school teacher and soon thereafter Ernie Lynch Developmental Services Worker, 1984 became a residential counsellor. She held a School of Engineering Technology & Applied Science: few positions before landing her current job. Heavy Duty Equipment Technician, 1978 Lisa is the Executive Director of the Boys and Lisa volunteers with many school community In April 1987, Ernie started Lynch Fluid Controls from his Girls Club of Durham, where she successfully led councils and fundraising committees, and has ® kitchen table with a phone, calculator, notebook, and a lot the agency to attain a High Five accreditation always been a fierce advocate for some of the of courage. A year later, Lynch moved to a 1,200-square-foot with Parks and Recreation Ontario. She was most vulnerable and marginalized people in commercial space. Today, Lynch occupies a 60,000-square- lucky enough to graduate at a time when our society. Lisa has received the Big Brothers foot facility, employs 75 people, and ships products to nearly sweeping change was happening in the Big Sisters Volunteer Award, the Scouts 50 countries. Its products can be found in mines around the province in terms of how how people living Canada Volunteer Award, and the Palmerston world, on battleships, in naval submarines, plastic moulding with disabilities were being supported. Avenue Public School Volunteer Award. machines, aircraft assembly plants, and even in Broadway shows. Ernie is also a director with the Ontario Aerospace Council and a board advisor at Women in Aerospace Canada, and serves on numerous advisory Boards at Centennial College. Ernie also regularly contributes lab equipment to the College. Ernie is not the only Centennial graduate at his company. “Some of our most highly skilled, creative, and  innovative people have come from Centennial. We are very ernie Lynch proud of them.”

16 ] Centennial First, Alumni Forever [ ] Centennial First, Alumni Forever [ 17 Alumni of Distinction Student Awards Night 2011 Edward Cruz Student Student School of Community and Health Studies: Bridging to University Nursing, 2006

Edward is a faculty member and the coordinator of the ]ascent[ Bridging to University Nursing for Internationally Educated Nurses Program at Centennial. He began his career in to their programs and the college community. the Philippines as a doctor of Dental Medicine and as The scholarships will help pay for the students’ an educator. He emigrated to Canada in the hopes of expenses while attending Centennial. The practising nursing. Edward enrolled in the program at recipients were: Centennial even though the College of Nurses of Ontario • CCAA Athletic Scholarship: had already deemed him eligible to write his Canadian Kadeja Hughes, Esau (EJ) Powell, nursing registration exam. Edward became a full-time and Ashton Vaz faculty member in 2009. In 2010, he became the coordinator of the program and is heavily involved • CCAA Schools Entrance Scholarships: Katayan Deans-Simpson, Michael Deleon, in marketing it, including speaking to ethnic community Students Awards Night is an annual event held Tenzin Rigdol Oshoe, Thishalini Thavarajah, centres so that he can connect with internationally at Centennial College. The November 17 event, and Kaitlyn Williams trained professionals. Edward is also a member of brought together scholarship donors, students, many committees, and won the Lise Perault Scholarship,  faculty, staff, families, and friends to celebrate • CCAA Single Parent Award: International Consortium of Parse Scholars, in 2010. edward Cruz the award winners’ achievements. There were Candace Washington $200,000 worth of scholarships presented to 230 recipients by 94 donors during the evening. If you have a family member who will be attending Centennial College, be sure to have Tim Gu Centennial College Alumni Association (CCAA) them apply for the CCAA Tuition scholarship School of Hospitality, Tourism & Culture, President Alvin Guthrie and Vice-President or one of the many other scholarships offered Hospitiality & Tourism Administration: Mary Jo Bryant presented $15,000 worth of at Centennial. For applications and more International Alumni, 1997 scholarships to nine Centennial College students. information, please contact the Alumni CCAA scholarship recipients were recognized for Office at 416-289-5218 or visit Tim is the owner of E. Star International, which their academic achievement and contributions www.centennialcollege.ca/alumni. he established in 1999. Tim came to Canada as an international student at Centennial College and knew he wanted to work in an industry that would allow him to do business with his country of birth, China. E. Star International started as a trading company but soon became a major player in the manufacturing of private-label apparel, Midland Clothing. Tim was chosen to supply apparel for the Olympic Games in Beijing, and he was the major supplier of apparel for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics. Tim’s private label is also a supplier to major Canadian and American retailers such as Walmart, JCPenny, Target, Marks & Spencer, and many others. He is also a vice-president of tim Gu  the Scarborough York Region Chinese Business Association.

18 ] Centennial First, Alumni Forever [ ] Centennial First, Alumni Forever [ 19 SG_JI_CCAA_Mar12_HA_Combo_FINAL.ai 1 27/03/12 4:33 PM

Alumni Benefits and Services ]ascent[ Offsite Onsite

Alumni Discounts Athletic and Wellness Centre (AWC) Looking for a discount when you’re out on the town? Graduates looking for a state-of-the-art fitness Call the Alumni Office at 416-289-5218 to get your facility can now join the AWC at Progress Campus. Centennial College Alumni Member ID access code. The AWC is equipped with full cardio and weight- It lets you take advantage of great savings on movie training equipment, and a running track. Alumni tickets, theatre productions, popular attractions, and more. can join at a discounted rate. For more information, CAA Membership call the Alumni Office at 416-289-5218. Apply for Basic CAA Membership and, in addition to Computer Labs the roadside assistance benefits of CAA, you’ll be Graduates who do not have access to a computer able to take advantage of many great offers. can use the PCs in the general access lab on Progress For more information, visit: Campus. Computer access is free and is available on www.centennialcollege.ca/development/caa. a three-month basis to graduates with a Centennial Personal Health and Dental Plan for Life card. To apply for access, please call 416-289-5218 or e-mail us at Designed with you in mind, the Johnson Personal [email protected]. Health Plan is an affordable health and dental benefit plan, offering you an Optimum Plan and a Preferred Diploma Framing Plan. The Optimum Plan provides a broad range of Display your diploma or certificate in a custom extended health and dental benefits, including Centennial College frame. These high-quality frames prescription drugs. The Preferred Plan provides the are all made in Canada, and the acid-free mattes are most economical coverage for extended health and tastefully imprinted in gold. Sale proceeds support the prescription drugs. For more information, contact Centennial College Alumni Association scholarship Johnson Inc. at 1-800-461-4155, or visit program. For details, contact the Alumni Office at www.johnson.ca/personalhealth. 416-289-5218 or email [email protected]. Hockey Hall of Fame Employment Resources Are you an avid hockey fan? The Hockey Hall of Fame Graduates can access the Employment Resource is a great place to explore the history of hockey and Centre to get help with writing cover letters and the great players who played the game. Before you resumes, building their portfolios, and accessing job head there for the day, be sure to call the Alumni postings. The Centre also offers workshops on success Office at 416-289-5218 to get the group sales code. and job searching. For more information, visit Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) www.centennialcollege.ca/employment. Interested in learning about natural history, world cultures, and more? The ROM is one of the world’s leading museums, with an impressive array of artifacts on display. To purchase discount tickets, visit www.centennialcollege.ca/development/rom.

For complete information on all of our benefits and services, contact the Centennial College Alumni Association at 416-289-5218 or visit www.centennialcollege.ca/alumni.

20 ] Centennial First, Alumni Forever [ ] Centennial First, Alumni Forever [ 21 Complete your BComm degree in 12 months...

Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce for Centennial College Business Graduates

Tutorials and classes at Centennial Progress campus in Scarborough

Apply now through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (www.OUAC.on.ca) to start classes in September 2012

To request an information package, please send an email to [email protected] and visit us at www.nipissingu.ca/cpp

Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: Centennial College Alumni Association P.O. Box 631, Station A Toronto, ON, Canada 41297514 M1K 5E9

05/12