In the News

Current News

SEWELL'S LEGACY HONOURED THROUGH NEW BURSARY AWARD

A new award that will support Summerland students pursuing post-secondary training in trades or business has been established in honour of Art Sewell, one of Summerland’s most dedicated community members and strongest advocates for youth and education.

At its regular evening meeting on Tuesday, the Summerland Rotary Club, Summerland Penny Lane and members of the Sewell family announced they will each contribute $25,000 to establish a $75,000 bursary fund to support local students.

Sewell was a founding member of Summerland Penny Lane and served as its Chairman for eight years. As an active Rotarian for 35 years, he believed in the importance of providing access to education and training, as well as business leaders’ responsibility to provide opportunities for skill development in youth to help them reach their full potential.

“We wanted to do something that would honour the legacy of our dad as well as benefit others,” explained Ken Sewell. “Our father joined Rotary to provide service to his community. Raising money for important causes or contributing to community initiatives, that’s where he was in his element. This new bursary is an extension of his legacy of service.”

“In establishing this new bursary we are following Art’s dream of supporting youth in Summerland by providing greater access to education,” said Bob Van Balkom, President of the Summerland Rotary Club. “Our Rotary Club also firmly believes in Okanagan College and its role in both educating our youth and providing local and regional job opportunities for the future.”

The Summerland Rotary, Art Sewell, Summerland Penny Lane Bursary will provide an annual award of $2,500 to a student entering full-time studies in a Trades Foundation program or Business Administration program at Okanagan College. The recipient will be a resident of Summerland or will have attended high school in Summerland. Selection of the award recipient will be based on financial need.

“Art was instrumental in developing Summerland Penny Lane and S.A.D.I. (Summerland Asset Development Initiative),” said Orv Robson, Chairman of Summerland Penny Lane. “He and his family have been a great asset to this community. Art’s legacy will live on without this award but I think we can all be proud that we brought this bursary forward in Art’s name to help carry on the work he was so invested in – that being investing in young people and their success.”

“We are extremely grateful to each of the partners who came together to create this new award in Art Sewell’s name,” said Jim Henderson, President of the Okanagan College Foundation. “We are well aware of the impact Art has had on this community and are fortunate to be able to play a role in continuing his good work in the lives of future students.”

LONDON DRUGS ANNOUNCES NEW SCHOLARSHIPS TO SUPPORT STUDENTS AT PENTICTON'S CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE

London Drugs is the most recent Penticton business to back Okanagan College’s new Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation, announcing a $10,000 donation to support a series of annual financial awards for new programs, which will be offered at the Centre.

Store Manager Colin Campbell made the announcement today at London Drugs’ Cherry Lane Mall store. The $10,000 commitment will fund two annual awards, each valued at $1,000 for the next five years.

“We are so pleased to be a part of the Centre of Excellence campaign,” said Campbell. “This partnership with Okanagan College and its students is a really good fit for London Drugs. We are deeply committed to our community and the Centre of Excellence is going to be an incredible facility and resource for the people of Penticton.”

Campbell went on to explain the decision to support the campaign was an easy one for London Drugs, as its corporate giving focuses on two main streams – supporting education and health. The Centre of Excellence will create space for approximately 500 more students at the South Okanagan-Similkameen campus in Penticton.

The Centre will also offer an array of new programs that are focused on sustainability and green technology. The building itself is striving to meet the Living Building Challenge, committing to a net zero consumption of energy and water.

“By contributing to these new financial awards London Drugs is helping to realize its goal of making our local community stronger,” explained Campbell.

“This donation is going to make a real difference to local students in helping to finance their education and training,” said Jim Henderson, President of the Okanagan College Foundation. “We are extremely grateful for the support of London Drugs and are well aware of the important role our local businesses play in our community.”

March 2011

Okanagan College President Jim Hamilton (middle) accepts a $30,000 donation from HSBC Canada’s Barry Taitinger, Assistant Vice President and Regional Manager (left) and Kelowna Branch Manager Marcia Jones during the Okanagan Business Students’ Association banquet.

One award will be granted annually to a first-year student at Okanagan College enrolled in the Faculty of Business Administration. Award recipients must demonstrate academic achievement, financial need and community service.

“Corporate and community support helps ensure that students who can benefit from post-secondary education get the chance,” said Okanagan College President Jim Hamilton, who is also a director of the Okanagan College Foundation. “HSBC Bank Canada understands and has been a strong supporter of our business program. As I express our appreciation, I’m doing so on behalf of a group of students who will benefit in the years ahead.”

“HSBC Bank Canada has a long-standing commitment to education, one of the main focuses of our charitable giving, and we are delighted to have established this Award at Okanagan College,” said Sandra Stuart, Chief Operating Officer, HSBC Bank Canada. “We are proud that this donation will help students pursue post-secondary education, giving them a bright future and opportunities for success.”

The Okanagan College School of Business offers a two-year diploma program and a four-year bachelor’s degree. Both offer specialty options in accounting, financial services, general studies, hospitality management, human resources management, management and marketing.

Following the recent $37,000 donation from Okanagan College students to the Centre of Excellence on the Penticton campus of Okanagan College, the Rick and Yasmin Thorpe & Friends Scholarship Fund is enhancing its commitment to supporting students of the South Okanagan and Similkameen.
 
The Thorpes are announcing today their scholarship fund will award a further $50,000 in scholarships to first-year trades and technology students at the new Centre of Excellence in Penticton.
 
“I am a long-time supporter of Okanagan College, having attended the College myself, and this partnership seems right,” said Yasmin John-Thorpe. “It is fantastic to see Okanagan College students contributing to the Centre of Excellence and we are pleased to provide further support for our local students.”
 
“I have always believed in supporting those who want to help themselves and I applaud the students of Okanagan College for showing their support of higher education, especially to our students of the future,” said Rick Thorpe. “Yasmin and I are very proud to partner with Okanagan College and assist students from the South Okanagan and Similkameen with scholarships.”
 
With this announcement there will be four new annual $1,500 awards to students of the South Okanagan-Similkameen region who will be entering the first year of a trades or technology program at the new Centre of Excellence.
 
“This donation underscores the importance of community participation in the campaign and the project," said Penticton Mayor Dan Ashton. "The Centre of Excellence will have significant impact on opportunities for our communities and our young people for decades to come. Rick and Yasmin, who continue to show incredible support for the community, clearly understand that."
 
"Well done, Rick and Yasmin Thorpe; your gift helps all of our communities by providing the opportunity to train students throughout the region at the new Penticton Centre of Excellence,” said Janice Perrino, Mayor of Summerland. “You continue to inspire giving in every community; we are grateful for all of your dedication and support."
 
"Yasmin and Rick clearly understand how important it is to create opportunities for higher education close to home and I have to commend them on their commitment to this notion, which goes far beyond the financial commitment that is being made," said Princeton Mayor Randy McLean. "We need to work together to build those programs and places for the young people of our region to prepare themselves for a changing economy. Clearly, the Thorpes are hoping to communicate that message, and to build on the message that the College's own students themselves have sent."
 
The new awards are in addition to the existing six scholarships valued at $12,500 awarded annually by the Rick and Yasmin Thorpe & Friends Scholarship fund to Okanagan College and UBC Okanagan.

---

March 2011

The Okanagan College Students’ Union is demonstrating its support for the environment, for leadership in education and for enhanced learning spaces and opportunities, with a $36,997.10 donation to the fundraising campaign for the Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation.

“Looking back to when this building was first announced, I remember thinking of the incredible impact it would have for students on this campus as well as residents in the South Okanagan-Similkameen,” observed Cory Nelmes, Financial Co-ordinator for the OCSU. “From the very first days of the design process Okanagan College has committed to making this building truly a Centre of Excellence. As students and as an organization, we’re pleased to have been involved in the process that led to its development and are eagerly awaiting the doors opening on its shops, classrooms, and student spaces.”

“It will make a difference in where we learn, how we learn and what we learn.”

“We don’t have a great deal of money, but careful stewardship of funds over the years by ourselves and our predecessors left us with an opportunity to make a contribution to the fundraising campaign. We have already seen many groups and individuals step forward to contribute to this building and we are appreciative. We hope that our donation will inspire others to contribute to the $5 million campaign as well. As students we see the tremendous investment in our future that this building represents.”

The Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation will be one of the most environmentally responsible public buildings in North America when it is complete later this spring. Okanagan College, CEI Architecture and PCL Constructors Westcoast Inc. and many other companies and organizations have been co-operating to build the $28-million project to allow it to meet the Living Building Challenge. That challenge incorporates some of the most demanding environmental building standards that focus not just on construction, but also on building operation.

“We involved our students from the start of the design process,” notes Okanagan College President Jim Hamilton. “They’ve been supportive and understand what the building means in terms of improvements to the campus and in terms of educational opportunities in the region.”

When it opens, the building will create space for approximately 500 more students at the South Okanagan-Similkameen campus in Penticton.

“Having the students choose to support our fundraising efforts is a vital signal to the rest of the region,” says Jim Henderson, President of the Okanagan College Foundation and Chair of the Campaign Committee.

“At a point when we are broadening our appeal to the larger community, it is a great show of support from the people that this project will affect the most: our students. We appreciate their commitment.”

November 2010

TUCK RETIRES AS FOUNDATION PRESIDENT BUT COMMITMENT TO HELPING PERSISTS

Nearly a decade of service as President of the Okanagan College Foundation has come to a close for Steve Tuck, but his commitment to post-secondary education and supporting students is not waning.

Tuck retired on Wednesday from his role as the first and – to date – only President of the Foundation, which has grown to boast an endowment of more than $7 million, and a record of giving out more than $1 million annually in scholarships and bursaries to students.

He is being replaced by Penticton’s Jim Henderson, who moves from his role as Vice-President of the Foundation. Henderson has been a member of the Foundation Board of Directors since 2004 and has also been leading the $5 million fundraising campaign for the Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technology and Renewable Energy Conservation in Penticton.

Tuck said his passion for supporting students comes from many sources, but credits the support he was given when he was pursuing higher education as a major driver.

“My life wouldn’t be what it is today if others hadn’t offered the support that enabled me to pursue post-secondary education,” said Tuck. “And over my many years of experience in philanthropy, that story has been repeated time and again by students helped by the Foundation and the donors whose contributions make it what it is.

“Helping make those educational and life-transforming dreams a reality is one of the noblest things I can think of.”

When he’s not working on behalf of students and donors with the Foundation, or helping with other charities such as Sunshine Dream Lift for Kids, and the Agur Lake Camp Society, Tuck is the Publisher of Forever Young Magazine.

He will continue in a titled role with the Foundation - that of President Emeritus.

“This is to acknowledge Steve’s great and abiding service to the Foundation, and his expressed interest in continuing to help with the stewardship and fundraising efforts we undertake,” said Henderson.

“Steve has played a pivotal role in bringing the Foundation to this stage of its development,” observed Okanagan College President Jim Hamilton. “His commitment, his energy, and his passion have helped the Foundation through some teething and transition challenges. What makes Steve’s commitment even more meaningful is that it goes well beyond just being a part of the Foundation - he and his wife Terry have made their own donations to the Foundation in support of students.”

“Although I know that pride can be one of the worst sins, nevertheless, I take great pride in what we have accomplished,” said Tuck. “I say it because the credit needs to go to a whole variety of people; to those who have served on the Board of the Foundation, but especially to the donors.

“An example of the strength of our Foundation is that over the past three years, when other Foundations have had to cut back on what they’ve given out, we’ve managed to increase our disbursements.”

Three new vice presidents were named at the Foundation’s Board of Directors meeting: Frank Richter is the new Vice President Finance, Lorraine McGrath is the new Vice President Fundraising and Marketing and Jim Cookson is the Vice President Governance. (McGrath is an Honorary Fellow of Okanagan College, while Cookson is a Distinguished Alumnus.)

---

November 2010

PETERS BROS. SUPPORTS CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE WITH  $50,000 DONATION

Peters Bros. Construction Ltd. is helping pave the way to improved access to post-secondary education in the South Okanagan and Similkameen with a $50,000 donation to support Okanagan College’s Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation.

“We know that sustainability is as much about creating access to education as it is about being environmentally responsible,” says Joe Cuzzocrea, President and General Manager of Peters Bros. “We see Okanagan College’s Centre of Excellence as something that aligns closely with our goals of supporting the communities we serve, promoting environmental responsibility and pursuing excellence and giving students a closer-to-home education opportunity.”

Peters Bros. Construction Ltd. is a leading paving firm in British Columbia. It is a privately owned and operated company with its head office in Penticton and serves the entire province.

Peters Bros. Construction Ltd. has four plants in Penticton, Kelowna, Merritt, and Williams Lake. The firm is a leading a hot-in-place asphalt recycler that can recycle 100 per cent of the road being replaced.

“Peters Bros. is a well-known company with a reputation for innovation and excellence,” note Yasmin and Rick Thorpe, who are honourary co-chairs of the $5-million fund-raising campaign for the $28-million Centre of Excellence, being conducted by the Okanagan College Foundation. “Their support is another signal of how much this building means to the corporate community in the South Okanagan and Similkameen. They see the value of investing in the means to create the skilled workforce that we’ll need to watch our economy grow and prosper.”

The campaign has exceeded $2 million.

---

October 2010

WINDSOR PLYWOOD GIFT TO CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE IS HELPING BUILD THE COMMUNITY

A $20,000 donation to Okanagan College’s Centre of Excellence is an important example of Windsor Plywood’s long-time commitment to building the community, according to Doug Sudchak, the owner and manager of the Windsor Plywood Penticton franchise.

The donation is a welcome signal of how a locally owned and operated company is supporting the community and the importance it attaches to sustainability in building practices, according to Jim Henderson, Vice-President of the Okanagan College Foundation and the man spearheading a $5-million fundraising campaign for the Centre.

“Windsor Plywood has been in Penticton for more than 35 years and we know the role that Okanagan College has played here. With expanded trades training and the new programs that the Centre of Excellence will bring, we know it is going to be an even more important part of the community,” says Doug Sudchak. “We are really pleased to be able to offer this support as acknowledgement of that.”

“Over the years we’ve provided builders and homeowners with many of the materials that have gone into building this community. You could say that this donation for the Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation is doing the same thing.”

The $28-million Centre of Excellence promises to be one of the continent’s greenest buildings when it is complete in March, 2011. Federal and provincial investment, through the Knowledge Infrastructure Program, is being supplemented by donations from the community to make the 70,000-square-foot structure a reality.

“This is an investment in the future,” says Henderson. “We know that the Centre will create jobs and benefit companies in our region for years to come.”

---

October 2010

GORMAN BROS. LUMBER LTD. DONATION CARRIES A PINE MESSAGE ABOUT SUSTAINABILITY

A donation of pine boards from Gorman Bros. Lumber to Okanagan College’s Centre of Excellence is driving home the messages of sustainability and stimulus.

A truck left Gorman’s in West Kelowna this morning carrying a donated shipment of tongue-and-groove pine boards to Penticton for the College’s Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation.

“This wood comes from beetle-infested forests in the Okanagan,” explained Ross Gorman, one of the founders of Gorman Bros. “It meets the specific requirements of the College’s ambitious efforts to create one of North America’s greenest buildings, and we’re proud to support that.”

“Our company and employees share a significant belief in sustainable forest practices,” says Gorman Sales Manager Cameron Cook. “Being able to put excellent value-added product into a Centre of Excellence is a terrific fit. Helping the College meet the Living Building Challenge is especially meaningful to all of us at Gorman’s.”

“This lumber carries a very positive message,” says Okanagan College President Jim Hamilton. “One of the valley’s best-known family firms is stepping up to support the Centre of Excellence at a time when we know things aren’t particularly rosy in the forest industry. This connection also points to how the local economy and local firms benefit from the investment being made in this building, in post-secondary education, and in sustainability. These are local resources being put to use, creating work for the area’s employees.”

When the federal and provincial governments announced funding for the $28-million Centre of Excellence in April 2009 under the Knowledge Infrastructure Program, it was as part of the joint stimulus plan intended to spur sputtering regional economies. It’s estimated the project – due to be complete in March 2011 -will create 180 jobs.

“Support from Gorman’s is very much appreciated,” says Jim Henderson, who heads the Okanagan College Foundation’s $5-million fundraising campaign for the Centre of Excellence. “Collectively, we’re showing the world that this is a project that can draw the entire region together to make it happen. We’re demonstrating that environmental and economic sustainability can go hand-in-hand to create long-term capacity for education and training.”

Ross Gorman was named an Honorary Fellow of Okanagan College in 2007 for the commitment he and Gorman Bros. have shown to the College through donations and scholarships and for the support demonstrated for the community.

---

October 2010

THREE LOCAL BUSINESSES TO SUPPORT CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE

Three local businesses demonstrated their commitment to social responsibility today as they announced support for Penticton students and Okanagan College’s Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technology and Renewable Energy Conservation.

Management from the Ramada Inn & Suites, Coast Penticton and Kettle Valley Station Pub presented Okanagan College with $50,000 to create student study space in the new $28-million building, which is on schedule to open this spring.

“Penticton is a close-knit community and what is good for our young people is also good for the community,” explained Gordon Ferguson, General Manager of the Ramada Inn & Suites and Coast Penticton. “Our contribution to the Centre of Excellence will go toward creating useful study space for students as they pursue their educational goals.”

Several students from Okanagan College were in attendance at the announcement and had the opportunity to express their gratitude toward each of the businesses and their owners, Janice and Robin Agur. The donation was accepted by Steve Tuck, president of the Okanagan College Foundation.

“We have had a long and productive relationship with the Agur family and the businesses they operate here in Penticton,” explained Tuck. “They are strong partners and friends of Okanagan College and their commitment to this community and its students is admirable. We are grateful for their continued support and value the services they extend to students, employees and community members.”

“Today’s contribution combined with the $66,000 raised over the years through the Ramada’s annual wine auction brings the total level of support for Okanagan College to $116,000,” said Martin Lewis, Director of Food and Beverage and shareholder for the Ramada and Kettle Valley Station Pub. “Our staff has been committed to supporting education and we are proud to be a part of the College’s growth and success.”

The Centre of Excellence is on budget and scheduled for completion in 2011 at a cost of $28-million. It is aiming to meet the standards of the Living Building Challenge – the highest designation for sustainable building in North America, and one that has not yet been achieved.

The Federal and Provincial governments supported the Centre of Excellence initiative with $23-million in funding, $13-million and $9.1-million respectively, through their Knowledge Infrastructure Program.

---

September 2010

TELUS CONTRIBUTES $20,000 TO PROMISING ENGINEERING TECH STUDENTS

For the fourth year in a row TELUS has awarded $5,000 to three of Okanagan College’s top performing Network and Telecommunications Engineering Technology (NTEn) students through the Jordy Koenig TELUS Scholarship, bringing TELUS’ total contribution to Okanagan College students to $20,000.

Scholarships were presented on Wednesday in front of the largest classes of first and second year NTEn programs Okanagan College has ever seen. Troy Berg was awarded $2,500, Jeffrey Nishi earned $1,500 and Colin MacDonald accepted the award for $1,000.

The scholarship was developed in 2007 to support students who successfully complete the first year of the program on a full-time basis and enter the second and final year of NTEn. Named after one of TELUS’ own employees, Jordy Koenig, the scholarship is aimed at supporting students and more closely connecting students to employers, while helping to bridge the gap between education and industry.

Koenig, a communications and networking technologist with 30 years of service at TELUS, took a personal interest in students in the College’s NTEn program in early 2003 and has since contributed countless hours of his time working with students over the past years.

Driven by the belief that industry and training should be closely linked, Koenig spearheaded an initiative that brought NTEn students to the TELUS facility in Kelowna to gain a practical perspective on their future industry. The success of the partnership resulted in Jordy’s appointment to the College’s Program Advisory Council, a position he has held since 2004.

Taking an interest in students enrolled in NTEn has been a valuable investment for TELUS. Since they began offering the scholarship in 2007, they have hired 5 out of the 12 scholarship winners. In total, TELUS currently employs 22 graduates of Okanagan College’s NTEn program.

“In offering the Jordy Koenig TELUS Scholarship we have been able to achieve two important goals,” explained Mitch Galloway, Director of Network Assurance for the BC Interior and Island. “We are helping to ensure the existence of a solid pool of highly skilled potential employees for TELUS and we’ve been able to recognize and honour the contributions of one of our most dedicated and valued employees.”

September 2010

REAL ESTATE FOUNDATION OF BC SUPPORTS COLLEGE'S CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE

Students who attend Okanagan College in Penticton will benefit from new classroom space dedicated to studies in sustainable building practices thanks, in part, to a generous donation of $100,000 from the Real Estate Foundation of British Columbia.

The grant was announced this afternoon at the Penticton campus by Karin Kirkpatrick, CEO of the Real Estate Foundation of BC.

“Our Board has been impressed by the vision of Okanagan College and its leadership team in their pursuit of innovation and in their commitment to creating learning resources for living building technology in the Centre of Excellence,” said Kirkpatrick.

“Supporting this building and the programming that will develop as a result of the new space was a natural fit for our organization. Land use knowledge, sustainability and conservation are the driving forces behind everything we do as we seek to provide leadership in land use and work to align resources in this province.”

The six-figure donation was received by Rick and Yasmin Thorpe, Honorary Co-Chairs of the Centre of Excellence Fundraising Campaign and Okanagan College President Jim Hamilton.

“This donation pushes the campaign total over the $1.78 million mark,” said Thorpe. “With support from community-minded organizations like the Real Estate Foundation of BC we are making steady progress in reaching the campaign’s $5-million goal.”

“It is extremely satisfying to watch as two organizations working in quite different sectors come together to pursue common goals and values such as sustainable development, conservation and education,” said Hamilton. “The key factor in this partnership is the Real Estate Foundation of BC’s strong leadership, generosity and their commitment to land use knowledge and responsible practices.”

The Real Estate Foundation of BC is a non-profit corporation that was established in 1985. Throughout the past two decades it has distributed more than $55.8 million in communities throughout BC. In the year 2009 alone, 57 grants totalling $1.48 million were approved by the Board of Governors.

The Centre of Excellence is on budget and scheduled for completion in 2011 at a cost of $28-million. It is aiming to meet the standards of the Living Building Challenge – the highest designation for sustainable building in North America, and one that has not yet been achieved.

The Federal and Provincial governments supported the Centre of Excellence initiative with $23-million in funding, $13-million and $9.1-million respectively, through their Knowledge Infrastructure Program.

For more information: www.okanagan.bc.ca/centreofexcellence.

---

July 2010

FortisBC CONTRIBUTION ENERGIZES CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN

FortisBC is supporting the establishment of Penticton’s new Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation with a $50,000 donation to create dedicated classroom space for students entering the technologically challenging electrical apprenticeship program.

FortisBC Inc., a Canadian-owned electric utility with 14 field offices throughout the Southern Interior, has a longstanding relationship with Okanagan College since 1992.

John Walker, President and CEO of FortisBC and Terasen Gas Inc., made the announcement in Kelowna this morning in front of dozens of electrical apprentice students.

Over the years, the company has helped the Kelowna campus save more than 1.3 megawatts, or 5,808,839 kwh of energy — enough to power nearly 450 homes for a year. They’ve also provided more than $600,000 in energy efficiency rebates.

“We are proud to support Okanagan College in creating a sustainable building technologies and renewable energy conservation campus,” said Walker. “Our community investment strategy supports projects that promote electrical trades, literacy, leadership and safety.”

The company’s pledge of $50,000 establishes the FortisBC Electrical Apprenticeship Classroom.

“FortisBC is the latest of a host of organizations that have recognized the value in supporting the Centre of Excellence,” said Steve Tuck, president of the Okanagan College Foundation. “We have bee fortunate to partner with FortisBC in the past and this new development is a very real indication of their commitment to this region and its future.”

FortisBC’s contribution has helped push the Okanagan College Foundation’s fundraising campaign for the Centre of Excellence over the $1.52 million mark.

The Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation is playing a pivotal role in shifting the perspective of Canada’s construction community, demonstrating that going “deep green” on an institutional project doesn’t mean having to pay a premium.

The Centre is being built with the investment of $22.5-million from both federal and provincial governments, along with a further $5-million from the Okanagan College Foundation and donors such as FortisBC.

---

June 2010

WEST KELOWNA STUDENT FINDS SUPPORT FROM THORPE & FRIENDS

West Kelowna resident Danielle Hofer will have help pursuing her Bachelor of Business Administration degree at Okanagan College this fall, thanks to the generosity of former MLA Rick Thorpe and his wife Yasmin John-Thorpe.

Hofer is the 2010 recipient of the Rick and Yasmin Thorpe and Friends Scholarship. The Mount Boucherie graduate was selected for the scholarship based on her academic standing, educational pursuits and outstanding community contributions.

The $2,500 scholarship was established to support students from the west side of Okanagan Lake, from Penticton to Killiney Beach, who enrol at Okanagan College in a range of studies including: business, viticulture, agriculture, engineering, tourism, trades, technologies, English or creative writing.

Hofer will attend Okanagan College this fall to study business. The Okanagan School of Business was especially appealing to Hofer because of the opportunities for students to work closely with community and in student organizations such as Students in Free Enterprise.

“I am very interested in social entrepreneurship and I know there are great opportunities to specialize in this field at Okanagan College,” said Hofer. “My ultimate goal would be to one day work for the Canadian Red Cross and use my business training to implement programs, systems and support for health care and education around the world.”

Hofer has already gained experience working abroad. She, along with classmates from Mount Boucherie, worked on a campaign to raise funds for a village in Kenya to provide better access to potable water, medical services and education. The 18-year-old traveled to Kenya this year to provide feet on the ground for the project.

“I am really very grateful to be receiving this scholarship,” said Hofer. “I plan on doing great things with my education and am thankful that Rick and Yasmin Thorpe see the potential in me.”

CHBA SOUTH OKANAGAN INVESTS IN THE FUTURE

The Canadian Home Builders’ Association of the South Okanagan understands the importance of investing in the future.

That’s why the group recently announced a $10,000 donation to Okanagan College’s Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation along with an annual $3,000 contribution to fund awards for students enrolled in Residential Construction programs at the Penticton campus.

“Our board and members view this contribution to Okanagan College and its Centre of Excellence as an important investment in the future of our youth and of this region,” said Doug Carnegie, Treasurer of the CHBA South Okanagan and Commercial Account Manager for Valley First. “Investing in students and in the construction of the Centre of Excellence will deliver a large payback to our local economy.

“We will all benefit from this large expansion of Okanagan College. The Penticton campus will be able to offer a wide range of courses in Arts & Sciences, Health, Business and specialized trades. In addition to making education more affordable there will be more employment opportunities.”

With a strong focus on environmental sustainability and innovation in construction, the Centre of Excellence project aligns well with the value and goals of the CHBA South Okanagan, said Carnegie. The CHBA’s Built Green program is also aimed at reducing the building trades’ environmental impact. Carnegie points to new innovative trades training programs, such as the College’s new geothermal technician, as another way the College is addressing industry change and progress.

“We recognize the value of the support and strong partnership we have built with the Canadian Home Builders’ Association of the South Okanagan,” explained Kathy Butler, Executive Director of the Okanagan College Foundation. “Their recent contributions will have an impact on the success of the Centre of Excellence and will be felt on a very personal level by the students who will receive the new CHBA South Okanagan Bursary.”

Students who are residents of the South Okanagan and Similkameen and are enrolled on a full-time basis at the Penticton campus in either the Residential Construction or Carpentry Level One apprenticeship programs will be eligible to apply for the bursary. The recipient will be determined based on a combination of academic achievement and financial need and the bursary may be split to assist more than one student per year.

“Our members are always looking for well-trained employees and we are aware that not every student is able to meet the financial challenges that come along with post-secondary training,” explained Carnegie. “It is our hope that the CHBA South Okanagan Bursary will assist students in achieving their goals and will further develop the strength of our work force and skilled tradespeople.”

The Centre of Excellence is being built with the investment of $22.5-million from both federal and provincial governments, along with a further $5-million from the Okanagan College Foundation and donors such as CHBA South Okanagan. 

March 2010

DONATION PUSHES CENTRE FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN OVER 
$1.45 MILLION

A $150,000 donation from the BC Wine Information Society has pushed the $5M Centre of Excellence fundraising campaign over the $1.4 million mark. The Society announced its gift at a special celebration today.

“This is an extraordinary gift from an extraordinary group of people,” according to Okanagan College president, Jim Hamilton. “The Society has proven once again that they are committed to doing what is best for the community. Their donation will go a long way in supporting our students by creating study spaces, recreational facilities and providing the latest in equipment and technology.”

BC Wine Information Society Board President, Keith Bevington, says the Society’s donation reflects the importance it places on the College and in particular, what the Centre of Excellence will bring to the area.

"The Centre of Excellence will increase the opportunities for more people to study and stay in the area. The College’s viticulture program has already proven to be an enormous asset and the new programs offered through the Centre will benefit even more businesses.”

Established in 1996, the Society operates the VQA Wine Shop, the first VQA store in BC, located in the Penticton & Wine Country Visitors Information Centre and returns the profits to the community for wine education and awareness. It also promotes BC wines and wine tourism in the Okanagan. In 2006, the Society established two College awards and today it presented its Bursary Award, given to a full time student entering the Viticulture Certificate Program at the Penticton campus, to Nick Thompson of Penticton. Its Scholarship Fund is awarded to a student who has completed their studies in the Winery Assistant Certificate Program at the Penticton campus.

The Society’s donation to the Centre of Excellence fundraising campaign will help create more opportunities for more students through expanded and new programs. The additional space provided through the Centre opens the door for more than 500 new students to study and train in the South Okanagan while surrounded by the encouragement and support of family and friends. It is anticipated that when they graduate, most will continue living in the area, boosting the economy and increasing business opportunities.

Centre of Excellence fundraising campaign chair, Jim Henderson, calls the Centre a showcase and says it already has boosted the area’s profile.

"Our fundraising campaign is aimed at the latest technology that will take the Centre to the next level in green construction, energy conservation and sustainability,” said Henderson. “Our graduates will be job ready for the marketplace and will use their education to build and create new business opportunities in fields that are becoming increasingly important in our world.”

The Centre of Excellence is on budget and scheduled for completion in 2011 at a cost of $28 million. The Federal and Provincial governments supported the initiative with $23 million in funding, $13 million and $9.1 million respectively, through their Knowledge Infrastructure Program. The College has committed to raising the remaining $5 million through its fundraising campaign.

With one year left in the fundraising campaign, the eleven-member Centre of Excellence campaign executive committee is aggressively seeking donations to hit the $5M total. For more information and to donate visit: www.okanagan.bc.ca/centreofexcellence or call 1-888-650-6968.

TELUS TO SUPPORT OKANAGAN COLLEGE'S CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE 

In support of TELUS' philosophy to “give where we live,” TELUS will give $100 to the Okanagan College's Centre of Excellence for every new TELUS TV customer in Penticton, Summerland, Naramata and Okanagan Falls. 



“TELUS believes in the importance of community. I, along with all of our team members in the Penticton and South Okanagan area, am so pleased to support the Okanagan College Foundation with a gift of $100 in the name of every new TELUS TV customer in the area,” said Steve Jenkins, TELUS General Manager. “TELUS team members are proud to enable important community infrastructure projects that benefit the communities where they live, work and serve.” 



"We're excited that TELUS has chosen to support the Centre of Excellence through its campaign in the South Okanagan," says Okanagan College President Jim Hamilton. "The commitment of TELUS and its employees to the communities they serve is well-known. They have been recognized internationally by the Association of Fundraising Professionals for their philanthropic leadership, with the 2010 Freeman Philanthropic Services Award. Their choice of this project as a beneficiary shows how committed they are to education and sustainability."



The Okanagan College's new Centre of Excellence, a LEED certified building, will increase the college's capacity and will teach sustainable construction and energy conservation.



This new $100 gift in the name of every new TELUS TV customer in support of Okanagan College's new Centre of Excellence begins today and will run for one full year.



TELUS TV offers over 400 channels, including 40 in High Definition (HD); an HD Personal Video Recorder (PVR) allowing you to record, pause and replay live TV and Pay Per View, so you can order live events from the comfort of your couch. TELUS TV also offers onscreen Call Display right on your TV and time shifting so that there are more chances to catch your favourite programs outside your local time zone.



TELUS began offering TELUS Satellite TV in June 2009. TELUS Satellite TV service complements TELUS' IP-based TV service by expanding the availability of TELUS home bundles including TELUS TV, Home Phone and High Speed Internet to more than 90 per cent of households across British Columbia and Alberta.



To order TELUS TV or for more information, go to telus.com/tv or call 310-MYTV (6988).



---

February 2010

PROMINENT DUO ADD THEIR SUPPORT TO OKANAGAN COLLEGE FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN

Two prominent citizens of the South Okanagan are adding their support to the fundraising campaign for Okanagan College’s Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation in Penticton.

Yasmin and Rick Thorpe have a long association with Okanagan College and will serve as Honorary Campaign Co-Chairs of the $5-million fundraising campaign for the Centre of Excellence.

“I’m thrilled,” says Okanagan College Foundation President Steve Tuck. “Yasmin and Rick are tremendous supporters of the College and post-secondary education in the Okanagan. They’ve helped make higher learning a reality for many students in our region through their scholarship program.”

“I know the respect they have earned from the residents of the South Okanagan and British Columbians,” says Okanagan College President Jim Hamilton. “Their presence will significantly benefit our fund-raising and help make the Centre of Excellence a reality in Penticton.”

“Rick and I are strong advocates of Okanagan College and we are committed to working with the citizens, businesses and the communities of the South Okanagan to make the new Centre of Excellence a reality,” says Yasmin.

Yasmin is very active in several programs focused on writing and literacy in the South Okanagan. As a co-founder of the volunteer organization, the Penticton Writers and Publishers, she was instrumental in organizing an annual week-long BC Youth Write Camp and is also very involved in the South Okanagan’s Raise-a-Reader program.

Rick served for 13 years as an MLA and Cabinet Minister in the South Okanagan, retiring in the spring of 2009.

In 2005, Rick and Yasmin, in partnership with Okanagan College and UBC Okanagan, established a $250,000 scholarship fund. To date, 28 students from the Okanagan have received $2,500 first-year scholarships (for a total of $70,000).

“Yasmin and Rick have been sincere and valuable friends to the College as it has developed,” says Jim Henderson, who is spearheading the volunteer fundraising committee in the South Okanagan. “Their decision to help with our fundraising efforts is a welcomed boost.”

---

January 2010

RBC CONTRIBUTES $135,000 TO COLLEGE'S CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE

The campaign to establish Okanagan College’s Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation received its largest donation to date with the announcement of a $135,000 commitment from RBC.

RBC’s contribution will help realize the Okanagan College Foundation’s $5 million capital fundraising campaign to finance the development of the $28 million Centre of Excellence in Penticton, which is being designed and built to meet one of the most demanding set of environmental standards, the Living Building Challenge.

“It is exciting to be a part of such a unique and inspiring project,” said Karen Borring-Olsen, Regional Vice President RBC Royal Bank. “RBC is pleased to join the growing network of community-minded donors, both citizens and corporations, who share a vision for education, innovation and sustainable growth in the Okanagan.”

The announcement of RBC’s donation was made this evening during the Olympic Torch Relay community event held in Kelowna. RBC is the presenting partner of the 2010 Torch Relay, which invited thousands of Canadians to participate in the relay through its carrythetorch.com campaign.

“We have been extremely fortunate to partner with a number of organizations that have taken the time to grasp just how important and groundbreaking this building will be for the Okanagan,” said John Walker, President & CEO, Fortis and Chair of the Okanagan College Foundation’s capital campaign. “The addition of RBC as our largest corporate donor is tremendous news for the campaign and for Okanagan College.”

For Okanagan College Board of Governors member Brian Hughes, news of the donation hit home – he is also a Vice President for RBC Dominion Securities in Penticton.

“I have the privilege of working with Okanagan College through the Board of Governors and know first-hand how much great work is being done by the College in the South Okanagan,” explained Hughes. “I take a great deal of pride in the fact that RBC is stepping up to support such an important project for the people and future of this region.”

The Centre of Excellence is funded by the Federal and Provincial governments, who provided $22.6 million through the Knowledge Infrastructure Program, and the Okanagan College Foundation and its donors. The 6,622 square-metre facility is being heralded as one of the most innovative and environmentally sustainable buildings in the nation. It will more than double the size of the existing campus and will expand program and research opportunities for learners across the region.

To find out more about the Centre of Excellence, visit: www.okanagan.bc.ca/centreofexcellence.

---

January 2010

MECHANIC'S LEGACY TO CARRY ON THROUGH COLLEGE APPRENTICES

The legacy of Hermann Koessler’s passion for trades will carry on through students at Okanagan College thanks to a generous donation made in his memory.

Three years after her husband’s death, Ute Koessler made the difficult but emotionally rewarding decision to donate his tools to students at Okanagan College, despite being offered thousands of dollars for the valuable collection.

“The last thing Hermann said to me was ‘I have so much knowledge to give, I wish young people would want to be tradespeople,’” she said. “My husband was so skilled and willing to teach people, he was so proud to be a tradesperson. I know he would be honored to have his tools used by so many learning the trades.”

Koessler’s lifetime worth of tools, valued at more than $87,000, were hand delivered by his friend Mike Goodmurphy and his wife Ute, who took the time to speak to a group of entry-level Automotive Service Technician students at Okanagan College; telling them about Hermann’s life, his work and his passion for their chosen field.

A German immigrant, Hermann arrived in Montreal in 1969 with one heavy suitcase containing a few articles of clothing and his most prized possessions, his tools. A trained and experienced mechanic, possessing a meister brief from Germany, Hermann’s lack of English made his early years in Canada challenging. While others were paid $5 per hour, Herman earned just $2 for the same work.

Supervisors quickly took note of his mechanical aptitude and ability to fix nearly anything and Hermann was able to overcome his language barrier, rising through the ranks.

Hermann’s skills took him around the world; he and his wife eventually moved to the Okanagan and settled in Oyama. In 2001 a fire swept through the Koessler farm burning down Hermann’s workshop and collection of tools.

Insurance replaced Hermann’s tool set, which included grinders, drill presses, table saws, and hand tools – those new tools all now live at Okanagan College.  

In one of his last conversations with his wife, Hermann told Ute “Every day I have left is a gift, and I have only one regret, people don’t want to learn from my vast knowledge they just want me to do it for them.”

“If Hermann were here today,” said Ute, “he would give you apprentices this advice: take it easy, make it nice. There is no such thing as good enough - it either works or it doesn’t, tools don’t fix things, you do. Don’t be ashamed to be a tradesperson, it is a noble profession, tradespeople are extremely valuable, little to nothing runs without a tradesperson, and you will help so many people with your skills and knowledge.”

As per his wife’s wishes, Hermann’s tools have been distributed throughout the trades shops at Okanagan College. Some went to the RV Service Technician shop, others to Automotive Service Technician and some to Carpentry. Ute believes Hermann would have been most happy working in the RV department, where students learn a little bit of everything.

“We are honoured to accept Hermann Koessler’s tools,” said John Haller, Dean of Trades and Apprenticeship. “Okanagan College is a place of learning and a place where we promote the same passion and appreciation for the trades. We know the importance of providing skills and training to the next generation and are humbled to carry on his legacy.”

In addition to her generous donation of tools, Ute plans on establishing legacy scholarships at Okanagan College in her husband’s name to support students in the Women in Trades program and individuals coming through the Gateway to the Trades program.

November 2009

CGA-BC DONATES $100,000 TO SUPPORT OKANAGAN COLLEGE STUDENTS

Returning business students at Okanagan College will benefit from a new financial award established by the CGA-BC Educational Foundation.

The CGA-BC Educational Foundation Award is the result of a $100,000 donation to the Okanagan College Foundation and was created to encourage education and research in accounting, auditing and related disciplines. The scholarship will annually assist one or more students in need, those pursuing research projects and will promote the field of accounting generally.

In acknowledgement of this partnership, Okanagan College will recognize CGA-BC through a named classroom in its new Centre for Learning at the Kelowna campus.

“The goal of the CGA-BC Educational Foundation is to assist students in financial need and to promote excellence in professional accounting and related disciplines,” said Pamela Skinner, Director of Member Services for CGA-BC. “The trustees are very excited about this opportunity to partner with our North Okanagan Chapter in establishing an endowment fund with the Okanagan College Foundation, leveraging the Educational Foundation’s strength in this vibrant community.”

In order to qualify for the award, students will have completed two or more years of full-time study in the Business Administration program at any campus of Okanagan College and will be returning for a subsequent year of full-time study in the program. Recipients will be selected based on a combination of academic achievement and financial need, and will be in good academic standing.

“This new partnership with the CGA-BC Educational Foundation is a great development for Okanagan College and our students,” said President Jim Hamilton. “Our students’ achievements in the field of accounting are many and this new award will recognize their efforts in the field and assist them in their educational pursuits.”

Complete information about this and other Okanagan College Foundation financial awards can be found at: www.okanagan.bc.ca/financialaid.

November 2009

SCHOLARSHIP SUPPORT WELCOMED BY CAREER-CHANGING STUDENT

Completing his Electronic Engineering Technology diploma at Okanagan College is going to be a little bit easier for second-year student Aaron Edis, courtesy of some welcome financial support.

Edis was the happy recipient of a $1,000 Canada Technology Bursary scholarship last week, sponsored by TD Meloche Monnex and presented by John Leech, AScT the Executive Director of the Applied Science Technicians and Technologists of British Columbia (ASTTBC).

While his 91.6 per cent average in the first year suggests that getting through the second year of the two-year diploma program won’t be a struggle academically, Edis admits that it can be a struggle financially, even though his wife works full-time to support his studies.

“This will definitely help,” said the 23-year-old who decided to build on a short career as an electrician by pursuing a credential in Electronic Engineering Technology. “The money will be very useful, but it’s also very encouraging to see support from ASTTBC and from companies like TD Monnex Meloche. It’s a strong message that people see the value in our education and want to encourage us.”

It’s an education and an area that Edis thinks warrants promotion. “I recognized that there is a need for technologists and technicians and that the demand is only going to grow in the years ahead. That’s one of the reasons I decided to pursue the diploma.”

“There is already a significant issue meeting the skills gap in this area,” said Leech. “And as the effects of our demographic situation hit home and the economy accelerates, it is only going to get worse.”

“It’s companies like TD Meloche Monnex, which has been a steadfast contributor to the ASTTBC’s Foundation for Education and Advancement in Technology, who will help us encourage more interest in technical and technological careers,” said Leech.

The cheque for the scholarship was presented to Edis at a gathering of senior officials of Okanagan College, the Okanagan Science and Technology Council and the City of Kelowna.

Later that day, Edis joined more than 150 other students attending a Kelowna campus event, who received 98 awards, worth $141,627. He received three other awards: the Electronic Engineering Technology department award, a BC Hydro Scholarship, and the Walter Gray Endowment Fund Award in Electronic Engineering.

The Okanagan College Foundation expects that by the end of the fiscal year (March 31, 2010) it will have distributed approximately $1 million to students this year.

November 2009

BMO FINANCIAL GROUP ANNOUNCES MAJOR DONATION IN PENTICTON

Higher learning and environmental sustainability supported with Okanagan College gift from BMO

BMO Financial Group announced a major donation in Penticton – a $75,000 gift to Okanagan College’s new Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation.

“Companies like ours have a responsibility to take a leadership role in environmental sustainability – to go where our customers are going,” said Sean Armstrong, Vice-President, B.C. Central Interior, North and Yukon, BMO Bank of Montreal. “This means that we must adopt environmental best practices into everything we do as well as support those organizations such as Okanagan College who are leading the way in green initiatives.” 

This gift is also in keeping with BMO’s corporate core values and commitment to education and life long learning.

At the groundbreaking ceremony held Friday in Penticton with Federal, Provincial and City officials, Okanagan College President Jim Hamilton said, “BMO has been a long time supporter of our scholarship program at the Kelowna campus. This level of support for our Penticton campus demonstrates their commitment to the region, our communities and students.” 

About Okanagan College’s Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation
The new $28 million Centre commenced construction in July 2009 and is due for completion in 2011. The Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation aims to be recognized by both potential students and the construction industry as the foremost teaching centre for green and sustainable construction and for research, development and commercialization of new approaches and methods of building construction and alternative energy production.
 
About BMO Financial Group
Since its founding in 1817 as Bank of Montreal – Canada’s first bank - BMO Financial Group has been committed to corporate and social responsibility and the principles of sustainable development. In 2008, BMO contributed $47.7 million in corporate donations, sponsorships and events, supporting communities and thousands of charities and not-for-profit organizations across Canada.
 
BMO has been making great strides on the environmental sustainability front – and in certain areas is leading the pack among Canadian Financial Institutions. The Bank announced in 2007 that it would be Carbon Neutral as an enterprise for energy and travel emissions by 2010. 

November 2009

PCL CONTRIBUTES $100,000 TO FUND EDUCATION IN THE SOUTH OKANAGAN

After breaking ground at the site of Okanagan College’s $28 Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation, construction leader PCL has announced a $100,000 financial commitment in support of programming expansion and educational opportunities that will be developed as a result of the new building.

PCL was selected by the College as the contractor for the project, which broke ground Friday in Penticton. The building, which is on schedule to be complete in early 2011, will utilize green technology and innovative construction practices.

“It was a natural fit for PCL to support the Centre of Excellence in Penticton,” said Sean Brock, District Manager for PCL. “Our company is known for excellence in leadership and we are focused on growing our commitment to sustainability by building green. We see an incredible return on investment in being so closely involved in this great community project and know that our added support will contribute to the long term growth and wellbeing of the region.”

Federal and Provincial government support through the Knowledge Infrastructure Program (KIP) will fund $23 million of the building. The remainder of the project cost will be generated through a community fundraising campaign.

“We have known for several years that PCL is a strong partner of Okanagan College,” said Kathy Butler, Executive Director of the Okanagan College Foundation. “We are extremely grateful for their continued support and feel fortunate to have them on board to build our Centre of Excellence. Now, as major contributors to our fundraising campaign, the role PCL is playing in this community is even more vital and speaks to the organization’s commitment and values.”

About Okanagan College’s Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation
The new $28 million Centre commenced construction in July 2009 and is due for completion in 2011. The Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation aims to be recognized by both potential students and the construction industry as the foremost teaching centre for green and sustainable construction and for research, development and commercialization of new approaches and methods of building construction and alternative energy production.

About the PCL family of companies
The PCL family of companies is a group of independent construction companies which carry out diverse operations in the civil infrastructure, heavy industrial, and buildings markets. Together, these companies have an annual construction volume of more than $6 billion, making them the largest contracting organization in Canada and one of the largest in the United States. Offices are strategically located in 27 major North American centers to support work across Canada, the continental United States, Alaska, the Hawaiian Islands, and the Caribbean.

November 2009

$30,000 DONATION TO COLLEGE FUELS NEXT GENERATION

October 2009

COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM REWARDS COMMUNITY SPIRIT

A new scholarship program being introduced by Okanagan College will reward area high school students who have helped their communities.

The Okanagan College Community Spirit Awards are $1,000 tuition scholarships for Okanagan College programs. Forty of the scholarships will be distributed to high school graduates annually who have a record of service to their school or their community or both. They must also have a grade average of at least 65 per cent on their Grade 11 and 12 courses to qualify.

“We really want to encourage those students who share the College’s goal of being supportive to the communities we serve,” explained Okanagan College President Jim Hamilton. “A $1,000 scholarship will let recipients know that their efforts are valued.

“We see a lot of evidence of a well-developed sense of social responsibility among our students and want to encourage that.”

The awards will be distributed throughout the Okanagan College region – six going to Shuswap Revelstoke area students, eight to North Okanagan students, 18 to Central Okanagan students, and another eight to South Okanagan students.

The deadline to apply for the Okanagan College Community Spirit Award is March 5, 2010. Application forms will be made available on the Financial Aid and Awards website in late January 2010 at www.okanagan.bc.ca/financialaid.

August 2009

OKANAGAN COLLEGE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION AWARD TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE

Tickets to Okanagan College’s Alumni Association (OCAA) awards banquet are now on sale at an early bird price of $100 until Sept. 30, 2009. The banquet and dinner reception will take place on Thursday, Oct. 15 at the Okanagan Golf Club (The Quail) and will honour the achievements of Distinguished Alumni Award winner Launi Skinner and Young Alumni Award winners Todd and Mark Regier.

Skinner, President and Chief Operating Officer of 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, is receiving the OCAA’s highest honour for alumni in recognition of her outstanding achievements in business.

Skinner graduated from Okanagan College in 1985 with a Business Administration diploma. Less than a decade later she began a prolific career with Starbucks, during which time she became the most senior woman in the organization, rising to the position of President of Starbucks U.S.

In 2007 Fortune Magazine named her one of its “Four Women to Watch.” With her career climbing steadily and after nearly 15 years with Starbucks, Skinner took command of 1-800-GOT-JUNK? in 2008. As President and COO of the growing organization, she is responsible for the growth of the 1-800-GOT-JUNK? brand in North America and Australia.

The Regier brothers are joint recipients of the Young Alumni Award, which recognizes excellence among alumni under the age of 35.

The Regiers own and operate Prestige Collision, a full-service automotive collision repair shop in Kelowna, which they established in 2003. Todd completed apprenticeship programs in Automotive Collision Repair (2001) and Automotive Painting and Refinishing (2003). Mark is a graduate of Okanagan College’s Business Administration diploma program (2004).

CHBC’s Mike Roberts will emcee the event, which will include a silent auction with proceeds dedicated to the Okanagan College Alumni Association student bursary.

To order tickets, contact Katerina Hay at: 250-762-5445 ext. 4771, toll free at 1-888-650-6968 or via e-mail, khay@okanagan.bc.ca. 

June 2009

Jayme Braithwaite and Kaley Wells have each received the $2,500 Rick and Yasmin Thorpe and Friends Scholarship, which supports students from the former MLA’s riding and is based on a combination of financial need, academic standing, leadership potential and demonstration of contribution to their community.

Braithwaite is enrolled in Okanagan College’s Bachelor of Business Administration degree program at the Penticton campus and plans on using her education to realize her goal of becoming an accountant.

“Going on to further education is expensive,” said Braithwaite. “Receiving this scholarship is really helpful and I am very appreciative. It was great to get to meet the Thorpe’s in person because they are such nice people.”

Wells will attend Okanagan College’s Kelowna campus this fall where she’ll pursue an Associate of Arts degree. Fluent in both English and French, Wells plans on earning a Bachelor of Education degree and using her skills to teach abroad.

“I chose to go to the College because of the personal attention you get there,” explained Wells. “They offer a program that is just as good as any program at a university and it just made financial sense for me.

“I am honoured to by recognized by the Thorpe’s with this scholarship and I respect them so much for all they do in the community.”

Braithwaite and Wells both demonstrate excellence in leadership -- both graduates worked on Pen Hi’s Relay for Life program. Braithwaite also lent her skills and energy to the 10,000 Tonight Campaign, a canned food drive in Penticton.

Wells was co-chair of events for Relay for Life in addition to being a Penticton Princess, where she is an ambassador for youth.

"Rick and I are so pleased to be able to assist these two very deserving young women," said Yasmin John-Thorpe. “It gives us a great deal of satisfaction to know we are supporting local young students who are choosing to pursue their dreams and studies here in the Okanagan.”

The Rick and Yasmin Thorpe & Friends Scholarship Fund was established to support students from the west side of Okanagan Lake from Penticton to Killiney Beach who enrol at Okanagan College in a range of studies including: business, viticulture, agriculture, engineering, tourism, trades, technologies, English or Creative Writing.

June 2009

PENTICTON & WINE COUNTRY CHAMBER SUPPORTS NEW COLLEGE GROWTH

The Penticton and Wine Country Chamber of Commerce is contributing $30,000 to the development of Okanagan College’s new Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technologies and Renewable Energy Conservation.

The announcement was made today at an Okanagan College Foundation donor recognition event held at the Penticton Campus, where the new $28-million Centre will be built.

“This is a very important project for the community, and it will have a lasting impact for many of our members,” said Chamber President Jason Cox. “We see our support as a signal of the business community’s commitment to the future of higher education in the region.”

Jim Henderson, who is spearheading the $5-million fundraising campaign on behalf of the Okanagan College Foundation for the $28-million Centre, was elated with the donation.

“The Chamber is known for carefully choosing its targets for support. This is an endorsement of the project that should resonate through the entire South Okanagan and among the business and community leaders who will help us achieve our goals.”

When it is complete in early 2011, the Centre of Excellence will accommodate about 500 additional students on campus, and will be a significant expansion of the existing Penticton campus, almost tripling the building space for students, staff and programs.

The Centre will house a variety of programs that are focused on sustainable (green) building technologies and processes as well as the use of alternative and renewable energy sources. The 8,500-square-metre structure will include shops, labs, office space, a new cafeteria, incubation space for business, and a recreational facility.

June 2009

Lejla Kusturica was recently honoured at a Kelowna Rotary luncheon as the recipient of the $5,000 Gorman Bros. Rotary Scholarship. Lejla is a Practical Nursing student in Kelowna. She came to Canada 10 years ago from Germany, where she fled with her two daughters after being forced from her native country of Bosnia.

She began her education at Okanagan College with English as a second language classes. She will graduate from the LPN program this August and plans to get further training to become an OR nurse. Ross Gorman of Gorman Bros.(right) and Tony French, president of the Rotary Club of Kelowna presented Lejla with the scholarship.

May 2009

REGIER BROTHERS HONOURED BY COLLEGE WITH 2009 YOUNG ALUMNI AWARD 

Okanagan College will celebrate the achievements of two of its most notable graduates under the age of 35 when it confers the 2009 Young Alumni Award on local entrepreneurs, Todd and Mark Regier. 

The Regier brothers own and operate Prestige Collision, a full-service automotive collision repair shop in Kelowna. They established the business in 2003 as a small start-up enterprise with a staff of two. At the time, Todd was 24 and Mark, just 22.

Todd & Mark Regier

In the ensuing six years the Regiers have increased their business ten-fold, building a strong reputation and making a name for themselves as high quality craftsmen with a customer service driven approach to business.

"It is a great honour for Mark and I to be selected for this award by the Alumni Association,” said Todd. “We are very thankful for the education and continued support from all of our instructors and the entire Okanagan College faculty."

Todd completed his Automotive Collision Repair apprenticeship training at Okanagan College in 2001 before earning a second red seal accreditation in Automotive Painting and Refinishing in 2003.

While his brother honed his technical skills and experience, Mark enrolled in the Okanagan School of Business. While working toward his Business Administration diploma, which he earned in 2004, Mark and Todd launched Prestige Collision.

As business partners, the Regiers’ complimentary skill sets have proven to be a dynamic and effective combination. Todd’s expertise in the technical aspects of the industry fused with Mark’s business savvy, have resulted in the steady growth of the business. Prestige Collision now employs 10 full-time staff, nine of whom are Okanagan College alumni.

“Todd is a well-rounded success story,” said Chris Burns, Chair of Okanagan College’s Automotive Collision Repair Department. “He dedicated his earlier years to become a high quality technician in two separate trades. He took a gamble and became a successful entrepreneur. Finally, and most importantly in my mind, he is supporting the same training system that helped to develop his skills years ago.”

Prestige Collision’s success created an opportunity for expansion in the summer of 2008 when the Regiers designed and built a larger location on Kirschner Road in Kelowna. The new shop features a state-of-the-art air recirculation system, skylights, and an environmentally friendly paint system and spray booth, among other sustainable technologies.  

“The Okanagan School of Business congratulates Mark Regier on being named Young Alumnus of 2009,” said Dr. Jayne Brooks, Dean of Business. “Mark is a great example of the calibre of our graduates and clearly demonstrates the work ethic, knowledge and expertise of a skilled entrepreneur.”

The Regiers’ selection as YAA-winners marks the first time the award has been co-conferred and the first time the award has been granted to a Trades alumnus.

“In less than six years since graduating, Todd and Mark have accomplished a great deal,” said Kara Kazimer, President OCAA. “ The Alumni Association is proud to recognize the Regiers as outstanding examples of the best of Okanagan College’s alumni.”

The Regiers will be honoured at a dinner reception this October alongside the 2009 Distinguished Alumni Award winner, Launi Skinner, President and COO of 1-800-GOT-JUNK?.

Return to top

---

May 2009

COLLEGE RECOGNIZES 1-800-GOT-JUNK? PRESIDENT WITH DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD

Launi Skinner, President and Chief Operating Officer of 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, has been named Okanagan College’s 2009 Distinguished Alumni Award winner.

Skinner graduated from Okanagan College in 1985 with a Business Administration diploma. Less than a decade later she began a prolific career with Starbucks, during which time she became the most senior woman in the organization, rising to the position of President of Starbucks U.S. 

In 2007 Fortune Magazine named her one of its “Four Women to Watch.” With her career climbing steadily and after nearly 15 years with Starbucks, Skinner took command of 1-800-GOT-JUNK? in 2008. As President and COO of the growing organization, she is responsible for the growth of the 1-800-GOT-JUNK? brand in North America and Australia.

An exceptional leader, Skinner’s role is to lead the growth of the business through development of strategies and programs that drive revenue and increase profitability for franchise partners.

“I am deeply honoured the Alumni Association has selected me for this award,” said Skinner. “I am proud of my association with Okanagan College and credit the valuable education and great community culture I experienced there with many of the successes I’ve enjoyed in my career.”

Since joining 1-800-GOT-JUNK? Skinner’s impact has been extensive. She established the company’s strategic direction, refocused the business to include more commercial business opportunities, developed a regional infrastructure to help drive accountability and growth and paved the way for the company’s current focus on developing an environmental strategy for the future.

“The Okanagan College Alumni Association is honoured to recognize Launi Skinner as a Distinguished Alumna of Okanagan College,” said OCAA President Kara Kazimer. “Her professional achievements and personal successes have contributed greatly to the reputation of Okanagan College, its school of business, and its graduates.”

In addition to earning her business diploma from Okanagan College, Skinner is also a Certified General Accountant and sits on the Board of Trustees for the Northwest Hospital and Medical Center in Seattle, WA.

She will be honoured by the Okanagan College Alumni Association with the 2009 Distinguished Alumni Award alongside the 2009 Young Alumni Award winner at a dinner reception this fall.

Return to Top

---

April 2009 

$28M FOR CENTRE FOR EXCELLENCE AT OKANAGAN COLLEGE

PENTICTON – An investment of $28 million from the federal and provincial governments and the institution will help build a new Centre for Excellence in Green Building Technology at Okanagan College in Penticton, and create close to 180 direct jobs.
 
Stockwell Day, MP for Okanagan-Coquihalla, along with Bill Barisoff, MLA for Penticton-Okanagan Valley and Rick Thorpe, MLA for Okanagan-Westside, made the announcement today.
 
“It’s been an honour to work with good people at all levels to make this happen,” said MP Day, Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway. “This funding will provide jobs for the community and capacity for Okanagan College for years to come.”
 
This investment is part of the federal government’s two-year, $2-billion plan to repair and expand research and educational facilities at Canadian post-secondary institutions. The Knowledge Infrastructure Program is helping to provide economic stimulus and promote employment by creating jobs for engineers, architects, tradespeople and technicians. In B.C. the federal government is providing up to 50 per cent of the cost of selected projects on a cost-share basis with the Province.
 
Work on the Centre for Excellence in Green Building Technologies at Okanagan College in Penticton is set to begin this month. Okanagan College will contribute $5 million to the project’s total cost of $28 million.
 
The campus expansion, targeting gold certification under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program, will generate close to 180 direct jobs and will accommodate new programming for green construction and trades education.
 
“By providing funding for these projects, we’re able to keep British Columbians working while investing in facilities for our post-secondary institutions,’’ said Murray Coell, Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development. “We’re directing our resources to where they can produce the biggest and most immediate benefits – creating jobs, stability and confidence for families, and building and renewing campus infrastructure. Province-wide these projects will create almost 3,000 direct jobs”
 
“This is a great project for both Penticton and Okanagan College,” said Barisoff.  “Supporting environmentally sustainable building is the future and this unique new facility being located here in Penticton will make a lasting impact on present and future generations. This is a truly an exciting day for our community.”
 
“The construction of this new facility will create jobs in the South Okanagan,” said Thorpe. “This project is a great example of how we are working to keep British Columbians working while creating innovative educational resources for the future here in the South Okanagan.”
 
Okanagan College was established in 2005, and offers career, continuing education, degree, developmental, trades and technologies, university transfer, and vocational programs. The region served by Okanagan College covers 37,750 square kilometres, and extends from Osoyoos and Princeton in the south and west to Mica Creek and Revelstoke in the north and east.
 
“This new centre of excellence at Okanagan College's Penticton Campus is a tremendous opportunity for students in the region and will play a powerful role in the greening of housing and commercial buildings throughout B.C.,” said president Jim Hamilton. “We look forward to breaking ground shortly.”
 
This is one of 29 projects at post-secondary institutions across the province that will break ground quickly thanks to a joint federal-provincial investment of $433 million. The total investment in these projects is $455 million including contributions from institutions. This project is also part of an overall $14-billion capital infrastructure program supported by the Province to create jobs and vital public infrastructure in every region of B.C.
 
Canada’s Economic Action Plan sets out to stimulate the Canadian economy over the next two years and to improve our long-term competitiveness through $12 billion in new infrastructure investment, which includes the $2-billion Knowledge Infrastructure Program.
 
For more information on the provincial government’s three-year job creation plan, visit www.gov.bc.ca/infrastructure. For more information about the Knowledge Infrastructure Program visit www.ic.gc.ca/knowledge-infrastructure.

Return to Top

---

March 2009

BUSSON JOINS OKANAGAN COLLEGE FOUNDATION BOARD

Canada’s former top ranking RCMP member, Commissioner Beverley Busson, has joined the Okanagan College Foundation Board of Directors. As the first woman to hold the rank of RCMP Commissioner, Busson had an esteemed career with the force and has now retired near Salmon Arm.

She joined the Okanagan College Foundation Board in March, where she lends her time and experience to furthering the success of Okanagan College students and increasing their access to education and training across the region.

“I am truly honored to have the opportunity to volunteer on this Board, which acts in such positive ways to contribute to the community through the College,” said Busson.

Busson’s career with the RCMP began in 1974 and spanned 33 years. During that time she held posts in Salmon Arm, Kelowna, Vancouver and Ottawa, to name a few. Among her distinguished achievements: Busson headed B.C.’s Organized Crime Agency, was awarded the Order of British Columbia (2006), and invested as a Commander of the Order of Merit of the Police Forces (2004).

“The Okanagan College Foundation is honoured to welcome Beverley to the Board of Directors,” said Dr. Steve Tuck, President of the Okanagan College Foundation. “She is an incredible role model with a wealth of experience who will contribute greatly to the work of the Foundation and will undoubtedly help to transform the lives of our students.”

Busson joins a growing number of well-respected luminaries who belong to the Okanagan College Foundation Board of Directors or otherwise support the Okanagan College Foundation, including: Senator Ross Fitzpatrick - Honorary Patron; Mike Roberts (CHBC) - Honorary Chair, Capital Campaign; John Walker, President & CEO, Fortis - Chair, Capital Campaign, Dr. Steve Tuck, Jim Hamilton, Kathy Butler, Janet Shaw, Bob Eby, Dr. Andrew Hay, Charles Albas, Susan Connaghan, Jim Cookson, Alex Fong, Jim Henderson, Steve Jenkins, Paul Johnson, Frank Richter, Rick Roberts, George Solomonides, Sigrid-Ann Thors, and Keith Williams.

For more information about the Okanagan College Foundation visit: www.okanagan.bc.ca/foundation.
*Photo courtesy of the RCMP

Return to Top

---

March 2009

LOCAL COMPETITORS TO CONTECT FOR SPAGHETTI BRIDGE TITLE AS HUNGARIANS LOOK TO DEFEND FIVE-YEAR WINNING STREAK

Second-year mechanical engineering technology students Tyler Pearson and Brendon Syryda will attempt to return the title of Spaghetti Bridge champion to Canadian soil after spending the past several months researching, analyzing and testing techniques for the 26th annual international competition.

Students from the esteemed Budapest Polytechnic, one of Hungary’s oldest engineering schools, have won the local competition every year since 2004 and hold the record for the strongest spaghetti bridge in Okanagan College history.

The record was set last year by Bala’zs Botka of Budapest Polytechnic with a bridge that weighed 994.9 grams and held 352.62 kg before faltering. This year’s entries include more students from Hungary who will be looking to carry on their country’s history of success at the Canadian competition.

Pearson and Syryda’s instructor, Ralf Pfob, says the duo have put in countless hours in preparation and hope to achieve a strong result in tomorrow’s event.

“They have been working on stress analysis, working with pressure, making hydraulic calculations, and experimenting with different brands of pasta and have really been working hard. They have built and tested two bridges with encouraging results,” said Pfob. “We are not sure if it will be enough to beat the Hungarians but they are definitely going to give them a run for their money.”

The competition gets underway on Friday, March 6, 2009 at the KLO campus of Okanagan College. Budding engineers from up and down the Okanagan Valley will participate in the elementary student event, which charges teams of students to build replicas of famous bridges. The elementary student portion of the event will begin at 10 a.m., followed by individual and teambuilding competitions and finally the heavyweight challenge, which is scheduled to begin around 1 p.m. in the lecture theatre.

In the heavyweight competition, first place winners will receive $1,500; second place will earn $1,000, while third place will take $500.

The Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of B.C. (ASTTBC) and the Okanagan College Foundation are the main sponsors of the event.

Return to Top

---

January 2009

THORPE CELEBRATION RAISES FUNDS FOR LOCAL STUDENTS

An evening celebration recognizing the career and life work of Rick and Yasmin Thorpe resulted in more than $30,000 in funds for the Rick and Yasmin Thorpe and Friends Scholarship, which benefits students attending Okanagan College and UBC Okanagan.

Rick Thorpe, MLA Okanagan-Westside & Al Horning, MLA Kelowna-Lake Country

The sold-out dinner, held in the Thorpes' honour, took place on Saturday, Jan. 24 in Penticton. Guests of honour included Senator Ross Fitzpatrick, Honourable John van Dongen, Honourable Stockwell Day, Honourable Bill Barisoff (Speaker), and MLA Al Horning, with video appearances by the Honourable Premier Gordon Campbell, Honourable Shirley Bond, Senator Richard Neufeld, and Honourable Kevin Falcon.

Also attending were Okanagan College President Jim Hamilton and UBCO Vice Chancellor and Vice President Academic and Research Dr. Doug Owram.

"It is fitting that even when his career was being celebrated, Rick and Yasmin were looking for a way to give back to the people of the Okanagan," said Dr. Steve Tuck, President of the Okanagan College Foundation. "Their commitment to education and lifelong learning will pay dividends as young people from the region benefit from the generosity of the Thorpes."

Funds raised at the dinner will translate into 12 entrance scholarships for Okanagan College and UBC Okanagan students, each valued at $2,500.

Okanagan College recipients of the 2008 Rick and Yasmin Thorpe and Friends Scholarship fund include: Matthew Swank ($2,500), David Addison ($2,500), and mature student Thao Kenny ($1,250). The 2008 UBC Okanagan recipients include: Lauren Abney ($2,500), Jodie Foster ($2,500) and mature student Jessica Rae-Fuhr ($1,250).

"This scholarship is an investment in our youth, who are the future entrepreneurs, innovators, writers and leaders who will see the Okanagan prosper and grow in the future," said Rick and Yasmin. "We can help our students achieve their dreams and at the same time help ensure our communities stay strong and vibrant for generations to come."

The Rick and Yasmin Thorpe and Friends Scholarship fund was created in 2006 to assist students from Penticton, Summerland, Peachland, West Kelowna and the Westside. Entrance scholarships valued at $2,500 each are available for high school students graduating from secondary schools on the Westside of Okanagan Lake and Penticton who enrol at either Okanagan College or UBC Okanagan. Mature or continuing students are eligible for scholarships valued at $1,250. All recipients will have exhibited academic excellence, financial need, leadership potential and contributions to their community.

For more information about the scholarship, visit:
www.okanagan.bc.ca/administration/students/financialaid.html

Return to Top

---

January 2009

OKANAGAN COLLEGE FOUNDATION DISTRIBUTING MORE FUNDS FOR STUDENT SUPPORT IN 2009

The commitment of the Okanagan College Foundation to support students with bursaries and scholarships is weathering the current economic malaise that has affected many other foundations.

While several foundations have cancelled disbursements of funds due to the significant reduction in the value of investments and the uncertain investment climate, the Okanagan College Foundation will disburse a growing number of scholarships and bursaries in 2009.

That’s due in part to a conservative investment and disbursement strategy that anticipated the need to maintain disbursements in the event of changing economic circumstances.

The Foundation, similar to its counterparts, has been affected by the downturn in the economy, but has been able to generate enough income on its investments in 2008 to continue its distribution of student support.

The Foundation Board made the decision in December to disburse 3.5 per cent of its endowment (approximately $235,000). The Foundation’s endowments are currently valued at almost $6.7 million.

"The Foundation’s investment policy recognizes the expectation of donors to provide funds for scholarships as the first priority. The asset allocation in the investment portfolio is varied enough so that there is sufficient interest and dividends to support scholarships," said Kathy Butler, Executive Director. "We also have the added advantage of having no administrative or fundraising expenses charged against the revenues of the endowment."

The Foundation’s annual donations for student support increased more than $100,000 in the 2008-09 fiscal year.

"With the increase in donations, we expect to disburse close to $1 million in student and program support by the end of March 31," said Butler.

A major boost in funding came as a consequence of the Southern Interior Development Initiative Trust, which made a three-year $1.43 million commitment to supporting students entering the trades, engineering technologies, and nursing programs as well as high school students enrolled in dual credit programs at the College.

Return to Top

November 2008

MAEBRITTE AND RON JEFFELS SCHOLARSHIP

The Okanagan College Foundation has been receiving inquiries from friends and colleagues of Mr. Jeffels regarding the Maebritte and Ron Jeffels Scholarship. 

Should you wish to donate to the Maebritte and Ron Jeffels Scholarship in memory of Mr. Jeffels, you may do so in one of the following ways:

In Person/By Mail
Online

The Maebritte and Ron Jeffels Scholarship is an endowment that was established in recognition of Ron and Maebritte’s contribution to the College and the Okanagan during the period Ron Jeffels was Principal of Okanagan College (1975-1980). The recipient will have completed the first year of full-time study in a university transfer program at any Campus of Okanagan College and will be returning the following September for a subsequent year of full-time study in that program. Selection of the award recipient will be based on academic achievement. Should two or more students have similar academic standing, other factors such as financial need, contribution to and/or involvement in college/community activities will be considered. Successful candidates must be residents of the Okanagan College region.    

November 2008

PAY IT FORWARD GIVING DRIVE LAUNCHES ANNUAL CAMPAIGN

Now in its third year, Okanagan College’s Pay it Forward challenge, a giving drive aimed at helping local community organizations during the holiday season, is accepting donations at campuses in Salmon Arm and Kelowna.

The campaign began three years ago after Okanagan College Kelowna business student Sarah Comba was motivated to make a difference in her community. Inspired by a concept taken from Catherine Hyde’s book “Pay it Forward,” Comba partnered with the Okanagan College Alumni Association to build on the concept of promoting a chain-reaction of single acts of kindness.

Now an Okanagan College alumna, Comba is continuing to lead the campaign, which aims to collect a variety of useful items, food and clothing for a range of non-profit organizations in Salmon Arm and Kelowna.

“The Alumni Association is proud to partner for a third year with Sarah to carry on the important initiative that she started,” said Kara Kazimer, President of the Alumni Association. “We will be drawing on support from our students and staff and encourage members of the greater community to get involved and donate what they can.”

Donations of clean and gently used warm winter clothing for adults and children, non-perishable food items, small gifts for children under 13 years, disposable baby diapers, unused toiletries, household items, books and cash donations are being accepted at Okanagan College campuses in Kelowna and Salmon Arm up until Dec. 10. For those who donate items during the morning of the last day of the drive, student volunteers will serve hot chocolate, coffee and snacks.

Charities and community organizations in Kelowna that will receive donations include: Kelowna Gospel Mission, Kelowna Women’s Shelter, Kelowna Food Bank, Kelowna Drop-In Centre and the Arthritis Society. In Salmon Arm donations will be made to the Salvation Army, SPCA and Okanagan College students who require assistance.

Inquiries regarding the Pay It Forward Campaign may be directed to Marlis Wecels at 250-862-5630, Extension 3.

Return to Top

October 2008

OKANAGAN COLLEGE STUDENTS BENEFIT FROM AMERICAN EXPRESS, WINE FESTIVALS SOCIETY PARTNERSHIP

HIGH TEA TO SUPPORT OKANAGAN COLLEGE

A violet tea, hosted jointly by the IODE and Okanagan College, will offer bite-size scones, sandwiches, sweets and of course, traditional English tea served out of silver teapots, to members of the community during an afternoon of socializing on Sept. 21 at 2 p.m.

The IODE of Canada, a women’s charitable organization founded in 1900, will offer the event as a fundraising opportunity to contribute to the building fund for the Penticton campus of Okanagan College.

The event will take place in the Sunoka Cafeteria and surrounding courtyard at the Penticton campus. In addition to traditional tea service and accompanying snacks, the violet tea will offer a musical performance from Tracy Fehr, and Okanagan College staff will be on site to provide tours of the campus.

“The IODE has an important legacy of community service and fundraising in Penticton and we are pleased to partner with them to raise funds for our campus through a fun and unique social opportunity,” said Donna Lomas, Regional Dean of Okanagan College. “The tea service will follow traditions of the past while opening the doors to our campus, which is an important part of our community’s future.”

Tickets to the event are $10 and are available by calling the Penticton campus at 250-492-4305.

Return to Top

---

August 2008

TURRI AND GIBBONS TO BE HONOURED AS COLLEGE ALUMNI

One of Kelowna’s most established accounting professionals with a rich history of community service has been selected as Okanagan College’s 2008 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient.

Don Turri

Don Turri, Managing Director of the Kelowna office of MacKay LLP Chartered Accountants, attended Okanagan College from 1974-75, completing the first-year prerequisites for a bachelor of commerce degree, which he earned from the University of British Columbia in 1979.

Turri has spent his entire professional career working in Kelowna. His roots in the community go back to 1912 when his grandparents immigrated to Kelowna. In addition to building a strong accounting firm, Turri has earned several top community awards. In 1998 he was named Executive of the Year at the Kelowna Business Executive Awards. He is also a Rotary International Paul Harris Fellow.

Devoting countless volunteer hours to a variety of projects in Kelowna, Turri has filled leadership roles on committees including the 2008 Central Okanagan United Way, Central Okanagan Foundation, Cancer Care Campaign, and Sunrise Rotary Club, to name a few. He has also been active in athletics, coaching Kelowna Minor Football and Kelowna Minor Hockey.

“The Okanagan College Alumni Association is pleased to bestow the Distinguished Alumni Award on Don Turri,” said Christina Ferreira, vice president of the Association. “He exemplifies all of the attributes of an Okanagan College alumnus and has contributed greatly to the reputation of the Okanagan School of Business and its graduates.”

Okanagan College will also recognize the exceptional contributions of an alumnus under the age of 35 at the 2008 Alumni Awards reception.

Chris Gibbons

Chris Gibbons will receive the 2008 Young Alumni Award. Gibbons is the Finance Manager of Westhills Aggregates, a business owned and operated by the Penticton Indian Band. He earned his bachelor of business administration degree from Okanagan College in 2007.

In the short time since receiving his credential, Gibbons has risen within the Penticton Indian Band Development Corporation, joining the organization as an Administrative Assistant and quickly moving up to take greater responsibilities as the Interim General Manger and then into his current position as Finance Manager.

While completing his education at the College Gibbons worked as a Financial Manger for Coyote Cruises then went on to form his own company, performing contract work for close to a year.

Outside of his professional life Gibbons has contributed to the community of Penticton as a minor hockey coach, volunteered as a treasurer with the Penticton Shooting Sports Association, and is an Auxiliary RCMP constable.

“For someone to graduate in 2007 and be honoured as an alumnus the next year speaks to the achievements of Chris Gibbons,” explained Ferreira. “Those who work with Chris know him to be a rising star in the business world. He has made a tremendous transition from student to business leader and that really speaks to the quality of his character and his commitment to excellence.”

The accomplishments of Turri and Gibbons will be honoured at a dinner reception hosted by the Okanagan College Alumni Association on Wednesday, Oct. 29 at the Harvest Golf Club. Tickets to the event are now available by emailing alumni@okanagan.bc.ca, calling Marcy Nelson at 250-762-5445 ext. 4773 or toll free: 1-888-650-6968.

Return to Top

---

June 2008

TELUS SCHOLARSHIP REWARDS TOP THREE OKANAGAN COLLEGE TECHNOLOGISTS

As the top academic achiever in Okanagan College’s Network and Telecommunications Engineering Technology (NTEn) program, Christy Hyde commits a lot of time to her studies, which doesn’t leave much time to worry about how she is going to pay for her education.

Last week Hyde learned that she was selected as the top 2008 recipient of Okanagan College’s $2,500 Jordy Koenig TELUS scholarship and was relieved to know that now she’ll be able to focus on having as outstanding a second year as her first.

Hyde is one of three Okanagan College students pursuing diplomas in Network Telecommunications Engineering Technology (NTEn)who received scholarships from TELUS last week. Jesse Doyle received $1,500 and Stefano Da Rosa accepted a cheque for $1,000. Each of the students has completed the first year of the challenging two-year technology diploma program and was selected based solely on their academic standing.

This is just the second year that TELUS has given out the scholarships, which were initiated last year as a way of supporting students in the industry. The scholarship is named after a longtime TELUS employee Jordy Koenig who has close ties with Okanagan College.

Koenig is a communications and networking technician with 26 years of service at TELUS. He serves on the NTEn program advisory council at the College and commits a great deal of time to ensuring the curriculum and training the students receive will prepare them for a seamless entry into the challenging field of networking and telecommunications.

TELUS’ Steve Jenkins, general manager, Interior South BC, was on site alongside Koenig to deliver the bursaries at Hyde’s workplace, Kelowna Flightcraft. Hyde was hired by Flightcraft to fulfill a summer work term at the IT helpdesk. Flightcraft IT manager Ken Ricci oversees Hyde’s work and has been very pleased with her skills and knowledge.

"Christy is a very bright young lady but the reason she is doing so well here is because she has the ability to be cool under fire," explained Ricci. "With more than 1,000 employees in offices across the country she has done an excellent job working with a variety of people and solving problems as they arise."

Hyde chose to pursue the NTEn program at Okanagan College because she was interested in the unique combination of electronics and computer science training the program offers. The College was her first choice because she’d heard good things about the program and the tuition was more affordable than other schools she considered. After taking a night course at the Kelowna campus to get a feel for what it would be like to be an Okanagan College student she enrolled.

"I was really impressed with the people and the College and after taking a class I was ready to commit to the program," said Hyde. "The instructors have been so great. The program is really tough but as long as you are putting in the effort the instructors will do anything to help you succeed."

With the Jordy Koenig TELUS scholarship and with continued financial support from the Metis Society, Hyde will return to Okanagan College to complete the program this fall. Her experience at Flightcraft and outstanding academic standing combined with an abundance of career opportunities should see Hyde land a great job upon graduation.

"This bursary will really make a difference to me and my ability to finish my education and I am very grateful to TELUS and Okanagan College for this support."

Return to Top

June 2008

COLLEGE-BOUND GRADUATES RECEIVE SUPPORT FROM THORPE & FRIENDS SCHOLARSHIP

Two Okanagan students will have an easier time financing their college education this fall after being selected as recipients of the Rick and Yasmin Thorpe & Friends Scholarship. 

Mount Boucherie Secondary graduate Matthew Swank accepted a cheque from Thorpe, Okanagan-Westside MLA, for $2,500 that will be used to pay for the costs of attending the Okanagan School of Business in Kelowna this September.

Swank plans on pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration degree at the College, his first choice for business school.

“I wanted to go to college that was close to home and I have heard really good things about Okanagan College,” said Swank. “I’ve known that I wanted to study business since I was six years old.”

David Addison was the second recipient of the $2,500 scholarship funded by the Thorpe’s, he graduated from Princess Margaret Secondary this spring and will pursue as Associate Degree of Science at Okanagan College’s Penticton campus this fall. Addison’s long-term plans include completing a Bachelor of Science in Engineering.

"Rick and I are pleased to be able to assist our young students in pursuing their dreams and studies here in the Okanagan," said Yasmin John-Thorpe.

The Rick and Yasmin Thorpe & Friends Scholarship Fund was established to support students from the west side of Okanagan Lake from Penticton to Killiney Beach who enrol at Okanagan College in a range of studies including: business, viticulture, agriculture, engineering, tourism, trades, technologies, English or Creative Writing.

Recipients are selected based on a combination of financial need, academic standing, leadership potential and demonstration of contribution to their community.

Return to Top

---

May 2008

NEW FINANCIAL HELP FOR STUDENTS IN ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY AND COMPUTER INFORMATION SYSTEMS AT OKANAGAN COLLEGE

It will be much easier for many first-year students to pursue an education in engineering technology at Okanagan College this fall, with the opportunity to receive up to $1,000 in tuition help.

As a consequence of a recent announcement by the Southern Interior Development Initiative Trust (SIDIT), as of Aug. 1, $80,000 will be available for students with financial need entering one of Okanagan College’s five engineering technology programs or the Computer Information Systems program. Each eligible student will receive up to $1,000 tuition credit.

"SIDIT has realized that the economic development of this part of the province will depend in part on a steady supply of high quality engineering technology and computer information systems grads," explained Dr. Andrew Hay, Okanagan College’s Vice President of Education. "The organization is helping remove the financial barriers for people to get that education. There are great careers awaiting graduates in these fields, and having financial help to start a program may inspire more students to enroll."

Okanagan College offers Electronic Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Network and Telecommunications Engineering Technology, Water Quality and Environmental Engineering Technology, and Civil Engineering Technology. It also offers a diploma and degree program in Computer Information Systems.

Students interested in finding out more about the financial aid available to help them begin the course can attend a free information night on May 27 at the College’s KLO campus in the Student Services Building lecture theatre, or they can visit the College’s financial aid website (www.okanagan.bc.ca/financialaid) or call Okanagan College’s Financial Aid office at 250-862-5419 or toll free at 1-800-767-5492.

Return to Top

May 2008

NEW FINANCIAL HELP FOR TRADES STUDENTS AND APPRENTICES AT OKANAGAN COLLEGE

It will easier for many trades students, apprentices and students pursuing some technical programs to start their training at Okanagan College this fall, with help available from a new source of financial assistance.

A total of $248,040, made possible by funding from the Southern Interior Development Initiative Trust (SIDIT), will result in a tuition credit program for students in select programs who demonstrate financial need.

Entry-level trades students can qualify for up to $1,000 in a tuition credit, depending on their financial need. First-year apprentices will be eligible for up to $500. (Apprenticeship courses are generally much shorter than the entry-level trades programs).

Students enrolling in ArcInfo Geographical Information Systems (offered in Salmon Arm), Audio Engineering and Music Production (Kelowna) and Esthetician and Nail Technician (Salmon Arm) are eligible for up to $1,000 in aid.

"Employers in the region know the immense pressure there is on the existing trades labour force right now, and it is only going to become more acute as more and more tradespeople retire," says Dr. Andrew Hay, Okanagan College's Vice President of Education. "To its credit, SIDIT has realized that helping remove barriers between students and training is one of the most effective ways of increasing the number of qualified tradespeople in the province and this region particularly. Their investment in financial aid should spur more students to enroll in our programs."

Students (or parents) interested in finding out more about the financial aid available can attend a free information night on May 27 at the College’s KLO campus in the Student Services Building lecture theatre, or they can visit the College’s financial aid website (www.okanagan.bc.ca/financialaid) or call Okanagan College’s Financial Aid office at 250-862-5419 or toll-free 1-800-767-5492.

Okanagan College offers entry-level and apprenticeship in many trades areas, including:

·      Aircraft Maintenance Engineer
·      Automotive Collision Repair/Painting and Refinishing
·      Carpentry
·      Joinery
·      Residential Construction
·      Culinary Arts
·      Electrical
·      Plumbing
·      Sheet Metal
·      Automotive Service Technician
·      Heavy Duty Equipment Technician
·      Commercial Transport Mechanic
·      Recreation Vehicle Service Technician
·      Welding
·      Trades Technology Teacher Education

April 2008

American Express, the Okanagan Wine Festivals Society and Okanagan College are teaming up to create more opportunities for students in the wine, food and hospitality sector.

Through the month of May, including the Okanagan Spring Wine Festival (May 1 - 10, 2008), $3 from every American Express transaction at participating wineries will go toward helping students and supporting the wine, food and hospitality courses at the School of Business at Okanagan College.

The partnership arrangement was announced at a reception held at the College’s Kelowna campus today.

"We see this as a tremendous opportunity to let our Cardmembers and participating wineries help support the future of this region and the growing wine, restaurant and tourism industries in the Okanagan," says Tracey Szczur, Director of Merchant Services Marketing, American Express. "We have worked with the Okanagan Wine Festivals Society before on other projects but this marks a first time working to directly benefit students and programs at Okanagan College."

"We’re excited to see our member wineries choose to participate in this," says Gary Reynolds, President of the Okanagan Wine Festivals Society and the owner of Lake Breeze Vineyards in Naramata. "We believe that the School of Business at Okanagan College will play a pivotal role in training future team members for all areas of our wineries. The ability to partner with American Express demonstrates that the society, its members, American Express and the College are investing in the future."

"There is growing interest in and support of the College’s hospitality and tourism programs, as well as its wine programs," notes Steve Tuck, President of the Okanagan College Foundation. "Partnerships and programs such as these help draw attention to those programs and – more importantly – help encourage those students who are charting careers in these areas."

In 2006, the Okanagan Wine Festivals Society created a new award program for students in the College’s advanced culinary arts diploma program.


Return to Top

JOHN RALSTON SAUL FEATURED IN
2008 PENTICTON IDEAS FESTIVAL

John Ralston Saul, one of the world’s leading thinkers and visionaries, will be in Penticton May 25 to offer his insights into Canada’s global future and its military and economic role in world affairs.

Saul, whom TIME Magazine has called a “prophet”, will be featured in the 2008 Penticton Ideas Festival Speaker Series. The award-winning author will be interviewed on stage at the Penticton High School Auditorium, at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, May 25. Advance tickets are $10 for adults, $7 for students or can be purchased at the door for $15. The tickets are available at the Tumbleweed Gallery and Okanagan College’s Duncan Avenue Campus in Penticton.

The event has been organized by Brian Hughes, the founder of the Penticton Philosopher’s Café, and an Okanagan College Board member. Proceeds from the May 25th event go toward bringing future speakers to Penticton and to the Locatee Lands Project.

Another event on May 26, which benefits the Okanagan College Foundation, will provide a limited number of people an opportunity to enjoy dinner with Saul at The Front Street Bar & Bistro on Monday, May 26. Tickets are $200 and available through the Okanagan College Foundation or the Penticton Campus.  Only 50 tickets are available. The Foundation supports student learning by developing scholarships and bursaries and by raising funds for programs and capital projects at the College.

“Saul is a philosopher, a novelist, an economist, a pre-eminent Canadian and someone whose views and insights carry weight around the globe,” says Hughes. “As I envisioned the development of the  Ideas Festival Speakers Series, I could think of no one more appropriate than him to be at the heart of the event.”

“Saul is known for his love and promotion of Okanagan wines, so he knows the area well.”
For more information about the event, you can contact Okanagan College (250) 492-4305 or the Okanagan College Foundation 1-888-650-696 or visit okanagancollegefoundation.ca.

---

January 2008

MORE FUNDS FOR STUDENTS AS HOME FOR LEARNING SELLS

Students who participated in Okanagan College’s 2007 Residential Construction program will reap the rewards of the program’s success when they return to the College for further carpentry apprenticeship training.

This development comes as the Okanagan College Foundation accepted a cheque for $165,725.72 on Tuesday -- proceeds from the sale of the 2007 Home for Learning project in Kelowna.

The Residential Construction students who built the home, as well as plumbing and electrical pre-apprenticeship students who worked on a portion of the home, will receive bursaries and the opportunity to utilize new equipment, which will be purchased by the College to ensure students have access to the latest tools.

The project’s three partners, Vintage Design Ltd., the Village of Kettle Valley and Okanagan College, each played major roles in the success of the project, as did the students who built the home and the sponsors who supported the program.

This year’s profit increased by nearly 45 per cent over last year’s home and is a credit to the widespread and generous support of the construction industry and community partners, explains Randy Werger, Associate Dean of Trades and Apprenticeship for Okanagan College.

“The support for this project and similar projects throughout the valley is a testament to the value of this program and the need for more skilled trades people,” says Werger. “The construction industry has come through in a big way to help out our students -- from donating to this project to hiring our apprentices -- and we are very appreciative of the partnership.”

All three of the 2007 partners have signed on for this year’s project, which will take place in the Village of Kettle Valley. The 2008 Residential Construction program will begin on Feb. 4 with classroom training at the KLO campus of the College. Students will then move to the construction site where they will build a home under the leadership of Jim Lamb, President of Vintage Design Ltd.
Lamb will design the home specifically for the program, ensuring students are challenged and their skills are up to industry standards. Lamb is looking forward to taking on a second group of Residential Construction students and sharing his knowledge with the class.

“Students who take this program are going to come out ahead and will be able to secure a better paying job than those who don’t have the experience,” explains Lamb.

Limited space is available in the 30-week program in Kelowna, as well as programs in the South Okanagan, Vernon, Salmon Arm and Revelstoke. Each of the Residential Construction programs begin on Feb. 4, 2008. For more information or to register, call (250) 862-5457.

Return to Top

---

December 2007

NEW HEALTHCARE-FOCUSED ENDOWMENT FUND WILL SUPPORT MECHANICAL ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGISTS 

Graham Baker, Peter van Wissen, Iain Cameron and Jim Hamilton

With a limited supply of certified technologists entering the healthcare field and a looming shortage of skilled professionals, students enrolled in Okanagan College’s Mechanical Engineering Technology program will benefit from a new endowment fund and scholarship program set up by the Canadian Healthcare Engineering Society, B.C. Chapter (CHES).

A $10,000 endowment fund was recently created by the local chapter of CHES with the goal of supporting Okanagan College technology students who show an interest in entering the healthcare industry. The award will be known as the Canadian Healthcare Engineering Society, B.C. Chapter Scholarship and will be distributed annually beginning this May.

“Almost all industries are scrambling to find employees and the hospital industry is no different,” explains Peter van Wissen, Manager of Plant Services at Kelowna General Hospital. “By offering this new scholarship we are hoping to focus some attention on another source of employment for mechanical engineering technology students.”

Van Wissen and Graham Baker, who managed Plant Services at KGH prior to van Wissen, are two members the B.C. chapter of CHES who felt strongly that the healthcare field has a lot to offer to technologists. In order to make employment opportunities more widely known, the duo approached their local CHES board to fund the Okanagan College scholarship.

Upon receiving the news from the CHES board that funding for the scholarship had been approved Baker replied “This is great news and demonstrates the commitment of the Executive Board of CHES B.C. towards the education of the next generation of people coming into the Engineering Technologies field. That the Board approved my motion of the bursary in just two fiscal years is just wonderful for a small society such as ours.”

“We hope to stimulate students to get a good education and recognize the hospital industry as a potential place to work,” says van Wissen.

The scholarship will be awarded to one student who has completed the first year of full-time student in the Mechanical Engineering Technology program and will be returning to complete the program the following semester. The Mechanical Engineering Technology department will select the recipient based on overall performance and participation.

Return to Top

BILL WILSON MEMORIAL AWARD

Janet Ferguson presents the Bill Wilson Memorial Award to Krista Alyward, a student in the Home Support Resident Care Attendant Program . Janet established the $10,000 endowment fund because she strongly believes in educating more health care professionals and wants to reduce the financial barrier to education.




Return to Top

LOCAL BEST SELLER PROCEEDS WORKING TO SUPPORT STUDENTS

Left: Dr. Murray Roed presents a copy of Okanagan Geology to Kathy Butler for the College's Library.







A surge in book sales by local authors Dr. Murray Roed and Dr. John Greenhough has brought the total amount of funds in the Kelowna Geology Committee Endowment to more than $58,000, which equates to more bursaries for Okanagan College students.

The Kelowna Geology Committee established the endowment fund in 2000 and has since collected one hundred per cent of the proceeds from sales of the locally best-selling book, Okanagan Geology of British Columbia, to support Okanagan College students pursing studies in geology, earth or freshwater science.

"Last year we were able to hand out more than $2,000 in bursaries for students from the accrued interest of the endowment fund," says Roed. "The book has been flying off the shelves and we expect this edition to do as well, if not better, than the first edition."

Roed and Greenhough wrote the majority of the text with important contributions from several members of the Kelowna Geology Committee. The group solicited donations from the community to cover publishing costs of the book in order to be able to use the full proceeds of book sales to support local students.

"The establishment and support of the Kelowna Geology Committee Endowment is an example of a true partnership between important members of our community and students," says Kathy Butler, Director of Advancement at Okanagan College.

Return to Top

 

Steve Tuck, Yasmin John-Thorpe, Kimberley Turner, Jesse Emmond and Minister Rick Thorpe

Two Mount Boucherie Senior Secondary graduates, who now attend Okanagan College, will have an easier time covering the cost of pursuing their education after receiving $2,500 as recipients of the 2007 Rick and Yasmin Thorpe & Friends Scholarship Fund.

Yasmin and Rick Thorpe, the Okanagan-Westside MLA, presented cheques to the students at their former Secondary school on Friday.

Kimberley Turner, one of the recipients who is enroled in Okanagan College’s Bachelor of Business Administration degree program, says the help couldn’t have come at a better time.

“I just want to thank the Thorpes so much,” says Turner. “This scholarship is amazing – it gives me a great opportunity to get my education.”

Jesse Emmond, who also received $2,500, had the confidence to apply for the financial award after being selected as the second place winner in Yasmin John-Thorpe’s Young Writers of the Okanagan contest.

“I was inspired by Yasmin’s writing contest,” says Emmond. “My second-place finish inspired me to press on toward my education. I am very thankful and grateful for this help.”

Emmond is pursuing an Associate Degree of Arts at the College and plans on earning a law degree in the future.

The Rick and Yasmin Thorpe & Friends Scholarship Fund was established to support students from the west side of Okanagan Lake from Penticton to Killiney Beach who enrol at Okanagan College in a range of studies including: business, viticulture, agriculture, engineering, tourism, trades, technologies, English or Creative Writing.

Recipients are selected based on a combination of financial need, academic standing, leadership potential and demonstration of contribution to their community.

“Yasmin and I are very pleased to present these awards to two outstanding recipients,” says Thorpe. “This is about giving back to our students – our future – and we wish Jesse and Kimberly all the very best.”

“Both Kimberley and Jesse are very deserving recipients,” says Steven Tuck, President of the Okanagan College Foundation. “This is a wonderful award that recognizes local students’ personal and educational achievements while fuelling their future potential.”

Return to Top

---

June 2007

JORDY KOENIG TELUS SCHOLARSHIP

The annual Jordy Koenig TELUS Scholarship were recently presented to three students who have completed their first year of full-time study in the NTEn program and are entering their second year. The scholarships were recently presented by (left to right) Steve Jenkins, General Manager, TELUS Southern Interior Operations and Jordy Koenig of TELUS to

Bronze Level ($1,000) - Clinton Halston

Silver Level ($1,500) - Christiane Kendal

Gold Level ($2,500) - Joel English

Department Chair Ronald Light and Dean of Sciences, Technologies and Health, Phil Beckman also offered their congratulations.

Return to Top

June 2007

PROVINCIAL ELECTRICAL ASSOCIATION
COMMITS $25,000 TO COLLEGE

June 20, 2007 - The establishment of two new annual financial awards for Okanagan College students is the result of a $25,000 donation by the British Columbia Electrical Association (BCEA).

Students pursuing Electrical Engineering Technology and Electrical Pre-Apprenticeship programs will be eligible for the new awards this fall through the Okanagan College Foundation.

The Executive Director of the BCEA, Barbette Cejalvo, was in Kelowna today to present a cheque for $25,000, which will be entrusted to the Okanagan College Foundation to set up the new endowment fund.

"As a non-profit trade association we are always looking for ways to give back to the industry," says Cejalvo. "I can think of no better way than by supporting students who are pursuing careers in the industry."

The provincial association, which is based in Burnaby, is pleased to be involved in the Kelowna area.

"Supporting Okanagan College students was an easy decision for us," explains Cejalvo. "We understand their trade division is really expanding and with the growth currently underway in Kelowna, it made good sense to bring these funds to this area. The demand for trades is booming here and we wanted to do our part to help as much as we can and provide some funding."

The two BC Electrical Association Awards will be valued at $600 each and will be granted to successful applicants who demonstrate good academic standing and who will be returning to the College the following year. The funds will be used to cover the cost of one year’s tuition for each of the programs.

"Receiving an endowment of this size is truly great for the Okanagan College Foundation, our students and our community," says Executive Director Kathy Butler. "Through the delivery of these new awards, more students will be able to complete their programs with job-ready skills and practical experience to help ease the burden of the trades shortage in Kelowna. We are extremely grateful for this tremendous show of support for our institution."

 
Return to Top

March 2007

Steve Tuck, the President of the Okanagan College Foundation is one of 44 British Columbians who have been recognized by the Provincial Government as individuals whose efforts have made their communities better.

The announcement was made Monday by the Premier and Keith Mitchell, chair of the British Columbia Achievement Foundation.

“Steve Tuck gets involved, shows leadership and inspires others in his community,” according to the government’s citation. “Steve has played a vital role in the creation of the Okanagan University College Foundation, serving as the founding president and overseeing the building of a $6.5-million endowment. As well, Steve is actively involved as a director and former president of the Sunshine Dreams for Kids, BC Interior Chapter, delivering dreams to sick children.”

This is the latest in a series of honours accorded Tuck. Last year, he was named Kelowna’s Man of the Year and in 2005 was given the Governor General’s Caring Canadian award.

“We know Steve is a great asset to the Foundation and to the Okanagan,” acknowledges Okanagan College President Jim Hamilton. “It is gratifying that others also see the value of his selfless efforts and his contributions to the community.”

“I’m extremely honoured,” says Tuck. “In fairness, however, I think that much of the credit is due to my colleagues in all the organizations that I work with and the great goals that those agencies have. I must also thank my wife, Terry – she’s a significant contributor to making my volunteer efforts possible and successful.”

Tuck was one of just three Okanagan residents recognized. The others are former Kelowna city councilor Ben Lee and Dr. Sharon McCoubrey, who has been instrumental in organizing and promoting Lake Country’s annual Art Walk.

Return to Top 

January 2007

Koenig, a communications and networking technologist with 25 years of service at TELUS, took a personal interest in students in the College’s NTEn program in early 2003 and has since contributed countless hours of his time working with students over the past three years.

"We realize the importance of Jordy’s contribution to students at the College and wanted to recognize his efforts," says Steve Jenkins, TELUS General Manager for the Interior South. "The creation of the Jordy Koenig TELUS Scholarship acknowledges the value of Jordy’s commitment to strengthening the link between education and industry in the field of telecommunications. At the same time, by financially supporting students enrolled in the NTEn program, we are helping to ensure the existence of a solid pool of highly skilled potential employees for TELUS."

Driven by the belief that industry and training should be closely linked, Koenig spearheaded an initiative that brought NTEn students to the TELUS facility in Kelowna to gain a practical perspective on their future industry. The success of the partnership resulted in Jordy’s appointment to the College’s Program Advisory Council, a position he has held since 2004.

"I am deeply honoured that this scholarship bears my name," says Koenig. "The scope of possibilities that this scholarship may foster brings to me a wondrous lesson in humility. I had hoped my efforts with these students would help them along their way and assist them in their careers. I never dreamt of this outcome."

"This is an important partnership with industry that will raise the awareness of career opportunities and help remove barriers, including financial restraints, that might otherwise keep bright, motivated and gifted people from entering the Network Telecommunications field," says Kathy Butler, Director of Advancement of the Okanagan College Foundation.

The company will donate the $25,000 over five years. The annual Jordy Koenig TELUS Scholarship will be offered to three students who have completed their first year of full-time study in the NTEn program and are entering their second year. The scholarships will be performance-based and awarded at the following levels: Gold $2,500, Silver $1,500 and Bronze $1,000 respectively.

October 2006

HISTORICAL PIECE OF PENTICTON LAND
DONATED TO OKANAGAN COLLEGE

Students unveil the bench dedicated to the Leir Family

For more information about the land donation, contact: Donna Lomas, Regional Dean (250) 492-4205 (ext. 3216).

Return to Top

September 2006

VERNON WOMEN IN BUSINESS ANNOUNCE NEW AWARD TO ASSIST WOMEN ENTERING TRADES

North Okanagan women interested in entering a full-time entry-level or pre-apprenticeship trades program at Okanagan College may be eligible for a new $1,800 award thanks to a donation from the Vernon Women in Business.

The award was formally announced Sept. 19, 2006 at the Vernon Chamber of Commerce’s Business After Five event, hosted by the Okanagan School of Business.

"The Vernon Women in Business are pleased to offer this new award to support women entering the trades," says Valerie Blundell President of the Vernon Women in Business. "One of our members is a tradeswoman and suggested sponsoring the new award. We were all in support of the idea because we know this is a growing field for women and after a brief discussion we approved the award."

"There is a very close connection between our business students and our communities," says Heather Banham, Acting Dean of Business at Okanagan College. "Hosting events like the Business After Five help to strengthen our relationship. The donation made by the Vernon Women in Business is a great example of how our students are supported by our local communities."

"This award is so important because trades training is a lot more expensive now than it was 23 years ago," says Alice Brown, who has been an Industrial Electrician for 23 years. "For many women who have children or family responsibilities, paying for tuition comes last on the list of economic commitments. I am so pleased to see that Women in Business are supporting women in trades through this new award."

The recipient of the trades award must be a resident of the North Okanagan and must be enrolled at any Okanagan College campus in an entry-level program beginning between July 1, 2006 and October 31, 2006. The closing deadline for award applicants is October 31, 2006.

For more information about the selection criteria or to find out how to apply, please contact the office of Financial Aid and Awards at, (250) 862-5419 or visit the web: www.okanagan.bc.ca.

Return to Top

July 2006

ANNOUNCING THE TONY SELLAR LEADERSHIP AWARD

Tony Sellar, North Okanagan Regional Dean, lost his battle with cancer on July 2, 2006.

Tony began working with Okanagan University College in August 2001 and was instrumental in helping establish the Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Program in Vernon. He assisted during the transition to Okanagan College and UBC Okanagan, assuming the role of Regional Dean as Okanagan College opened its doors.

Tony's career was varied, and involved working with everyone from the RCMP in Edmonton as a Civilian Forensic Scientist in the Toxicology Section to the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology as an instructor, a consultant and as a Dean.

Tony is survived by his wife Loree, three children (Leslie, Jennifer and Chris) and two grandchildren (Aiden and Charli).

In recognition of Tony's service to the College and his dedication to post-secondary education and training, Tony's family and the Okanagan College Foundation have established the Tony Sellar Leadership Entrance Scholarship. This endowment will provide an annual award to an Okanagan College student and will be disbursed to a graduate of School District 22 who attends first-year courses on a full-time basis in any program at Okanagan College's Kalamalka Campus within 15 months of graduation from high school. You can find out more about the Tony Sellar Leadership Award (click for brochure) or about donating to it by calling 250-762-5445, Local 4772 / Toll-free 1-888-650-6968.

Return to Top 

---

May 2006

On Friday May 12, 2006 at Summerland Senior Secondary School, Rick Thorpe and Yasmin John-Thorpe announced that they would contribute $125,000 to a new scholarship fund to help students from the west side of Okanagan Lake, from Penticton to Killiney Beach, who are entering programs at Okanagan College and UBC-Okanagan.

Okanagan College and UBC-Okanagan will match the Thorpe's donation to make it a $250,000 endowment.

The Okanagan College Foundation is honoured to have been selected the administrators of this endowment.

Objective of the entrance scholarships

1. To provide financial assistance in the form of entrance scholarships to senior secondary students who graduate from schools located on the west side of Okanagan Lake from Penticton to Killiney Beach to access post-secondary education within the Okanagan.
   
2. To provide financial assistance in the form of entrance scholarships to mature or continuing students who reside on the west side of Okanagan Lake from Penticton to Killiney Beach to access post-secondary education within the Okanagan.

Candidates for the scholarship must meet an academic standing of 3.5 GPA (grade point average) in combination with significant contributions to their community through sports, culture, volunteer services and/or other extra curricular activities. Financial need may be considered.

Candidates must also be undertaking studies in business, viticulture, agriculture, engineering, tourism/hospitality, trades, technologies, English or creative writing to qualify for the scholarship.

Entrance Scholarship Particulars

Secondary School Graduates

Beginning in September 2007, two $2,500 scholarships will be offered by Rick and Yasmin Thorpe and Friends, through the Okanagan College Foundation, to students who enrol at either the University of British Columbia Okanagan or Okanagan College after graduation from a secondary school located on the west side of Okanagan Lake from Penticton to Killiney Beach. Candidates must be nominated by their secondary schools.

Mature or Continuing Students

Scholarships of $1,250 each are offered by Rick and Yasmin Thorpe and Friends, through the Okanagan College Foundation, to continuing students or mature students who enrol at either the University of British Columbia Okanagan or Okanagan College and who reside on the west side of Okanagan Lake from Penticton to Killiney Beach. The first scholarships will be available starting in the 2008-09 school year.

Matching Funds:

Okanagan College and UBC Okanagan each agree to establish a matching scholarship for the scholarship established by the Thorpe’s.

Return to Top

April 2006

DR. STEVE TUCK NAMED KELOWNA'S
"MAN OF THE YEAR"!

Congratulations to Dr. Steve Tuck, President of the Okanagan College Foundation, who was named "Man of the Year" at the 31st Annual Civic & Community Awards on April 20, 2006!

As president and chairman of the new Okanagan College Foundation, Steven Tuck has seen quite a year. Formerly the inaugural president of the Okanagan University College foundation, there was a period of transition where the foundation found itself without an institution but the dust settled and UBC Okanagan and the new Okanagan College were formed. He’ll be leading a panel this spring at the Canadian Association of Gift Planners in Calgary to help others learn how to wade through this kind of transition.

In 2003, Steven received the Caring Canadian Award and in 2005 was awarded the title and degree “Doctor of Letters” from Okanagan University College in recognition of all the volunteer hours he’s dedicated to establishing their foundation.

Steve has been actively involved with the Sunshine Dreamlift for Kids program. He was president for five years and is now past president and a director. In 2001 he was named their first Ambassador to Canada. This year they raised $77,500 here in the Okanagan.

A Rotarian, he has been editor of their newsletter for 10 years, turning it into a profit making venture and his past local involvements include Cops for Kids, Snowfest and the Chamber of Commerce. This is Steven’s third time being a finalist for this award.

Return to Top

March 2006

Kathy Butler, Executive Director and Steve Tuck, President, Okanagan College Foundation, and Heather Banham, Associate Dean, Okanagan School of Business, accept a cheque for $25,000 from Canada Life representatives Chad Ellingboe and Perry Fieseler for the Canada Life Endowment Award for Business students at Okanagan College.

The Great-West Life Assurance Company, one of Canada’s leading insurance companies, continues to show its support for one of the province’s leading Business programs.

Great-West has added $25,000 to the Canada Life Award endowment, which
provides an annual award to a student in Okanagan College’s Bachelor of Business
Administration (BBA) program.

“Our company has a solid tradition of giving back to the communities in which we do business, through sponsorships, donations and the volunteer efforts of our staff,” says Lloyd Litke, Individual Sales Vice-President, British Columbia for Canada Life, a Great-West Life subsidiary. “We work hard to live up to our commitment to build a brighter future for communities by contributing financial support focused on
education, health and wellness, arts and culture, social services and community
programs.”

The endowment, which now stands at more than $35,000, will provide an annual
minimum award of $1,200 to a Business Administration student who is entering the
third or fourth year of the degree program. Recipients of this award will have
achieved high academic standing and will have demonstrated positive and
significant volunteer contributions to the betterment of their community.

“For many recipients, the extra financial help and recognition of winning an award
like this bolsters confidence and makes the difference between success and
significance,” says Kathy Butler, Okanagan College Foundation Executive Director.
“The Foundation believes the future of our region is tied to the success of the next
generation of learners. Great-West Life obviously shares this vision and understands
the tremendous opportunities that can result from investing in higher education. We
are grateful for their generous support of the Okanagan School of Business.”

Great-West, together with its subsidiaries, Canada Life and London Life, serves the
financial security needs of 12 million Canadians through a network of Great-West
and Freedom 55 Financial security advisors, and through a multi-channel network of
brokers, advisors and financial institutions. Through their national program for
corporate citizenship, the Key to Giving, the companies contribute directly to
hundreds of non-profit and charitable organizations across the country.

For more information about the award, contact Okanagan College’s Financial Aid
and Awards office at (250) 862-5419 or toll free at 1-800-767-5492 or contact
Marlene Klassen, Director, Media and Public Relations, Great-West Life, London
Life and Canada Life, at (204) 946-7705.

For information on how to establish an award at Okanagan College, contact the
Okanagan College Foundation at (250) 862-5630.

Return to Top

Steve Tuck, Okanagan College Foundation President, Heather Schroeter, President, Okanagan Wine Festivals Society (OWFS), John Haller, Dean, Trades and Apprenticeship, Perry Bentley, Chair, Culinary Arts and his students toast the new award established by OWFS for students in the Culinary Arts diploma program.

The annual award of $1,250 will assist students enrolled in the two-year program that prepares students for employment in the culinary/hospitality industry. This is a new program offered at Okanagan College that focuses on modern trends in cooking, wine appreciation and service, food and wine pairing, and an understanding of business administration as it applies to a working kitchen.

“The program is designed to address the developing trend in the Okanagan region toward the combination of fine wineries and excellent restaurants,” says Okanagan College’s Culinary Arts Chair Perry Bentley.

“This is an excellent program that will benefit the region’s burgeoning wine and hospitality industries,” says Heather Schroeter, President of the Okanagan Wine Festivals Society and General Manager of Manteo Resort in Kelowna. “We are pleased to provide support to students interested in a career in these industries and applaud the College’s initiative to provide this vital training.”

Students begin the program taking business courses related to the hospitality industry, followed by 10 months of practical culinary training and then conclude with more courses related to restaurant management and operations.

“The Okanagan Wine Festivals Society’s support is a perfect match for the Advanced Culinary Arts program,” says Kathy Butler, Okanagan College Foundation Executive Director. “We are extremely appreciative that they have agreed to establish the first award for students in this new program.”

The Okanagan Wine Festivals Society has emerged over the past decade as one of the most successful cooperative marketing ventures in Western North America. It is the main agency responsible for wine tourism in the Okanagan Valley and in addition to working closely with Tourism B.C. on an integrated year round strategy to bring the world of wine tourists here, it also offers four annual yet distinct Okanagan Wine Festivals – The Icewine Festival at Sun Peaks; The Okanagan Spring Wine Festival; The Okanagan Summer Wine Festival at Silver Star Mountain Resort and the Okanagan Fall Wine Festival – one of the Top 100 Events in North America.

For more information regarding this award, contact the Okanagan College Foundation at 762-5445, ext. 4775.

For more information on the Okanagan Wine Festivals Society, contact www.thewinefestivals.com or 250-861-6654.

Return to Top

February 2006

TOYOTA DONATION DRIVES APPRENTICESHIP TRAINING

2005

Return to top

OKANAGAN COLLEGE FOUNDATION RECOGNIZING SCHOLARS AND DONORS THIS MONTH

June 2005:  The Okanagan University College Foundation is becoming the Okanagan College Foundation.

A change to the name and the organization’sconstitution has been approved by the Board of Directors, and it will become effective July 1.

The constitutional change will allow the organization to serve the new Okanagan College as well as other post-secondary institutions, including UBC Okanagan.

"I’m pleased with the opportunity this presents," says Foundation President Steve Tuck. "While this signals our support for the College, which doesn’t have the fundraising track record or infrastructure of UBC, it gives us the ability to support all post-secondary in the region."

The change in constitution means that the Foundation will be able to administer funds in the names of both institutions – Okanagan College and UBC Okanagan - and provide scholarships and bursaries to students attending the two schools.

"What has made this possible is the co-operative approach and spirit that existed between ourselves, the administration and governing arms of the two institutions," notes Tuck. "We already have examples of funds that have been established which speak to the co-existence of the two schools." He points to the scholarship established by former OUC President Dr. Katy Bindon, which will benefit students who transfer from a college program to complete a degree at the university, as well as another scholarship established by Tuck and his wife Terry, which also focuses on students moving from one institution to the other.

During the process that has seen OUC move toward becoming the new Okanagan College and UBC Okanagan, the Foundation has been diligent about connecting with existing donors to see where they want their funds directed, he notes.

"We’re seeing a new era of post-secondary education unfolding for this region and we see an opportunity for the Foundation – albeit with a new name – to play an even more significant role than it already has."

"From March 18, 2004 (the day after Premier Gordon Campbell announced the future for post-secondary in the Okanagan), the tone has been supportive and clear," says Tuck. "Everyone at OUC, Okanagan College, and UBC have been forthright in their commitment to ensuring that the Foundation retains its strength and has a chance to flourish in the task it has set itself."

The Okanagan College Foundation has an endowment of $6.3 million. Over the past three years it has distributed almost $2.4 million to support students and programs at OUC.

In the 2004-2005 fiscal year, the Foundation awarded 1,754 scholarships and bursaries to students.

Return to top