Alumni News and Views - Conestoga College

Connections Connections C O N E S T O G A C O L L E G E A L U M N I M A G A Z I N E
V o l u m e 2 0 , I s s u e 2 W i n t e r 2 0 0 8
40 Years of Excellence in Education

Table of Contents
Editor’s Notebook
Passing the Torch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Conestoga Celebrates Its 40th Aniversary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Cover Story
40 Years of Building community Prosperity . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Grad Profile
Alumnus of Distinction Award Recipients 2007 . . . . . . . . . 6
Call for Nomination - Alumnus of Distinction Award . . . . . 8
metamorphHOUSES - Melloul-Blamey's Latest Venture . . . . . . . 9
Heard it Through the Grapevine
Keeping in Touch with Our Alumni . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
In Memoriam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Lost Sheep
Too Baaaad We Can’t Find Ewe! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Membership Has Its Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Alumni Services
Reunions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Upcoming Reunion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Editors: Monica Himmelman *
Mary Wright *
Creative Director: Valerie Gray *
Contributing Barbara Aggerholm, The Record Staff
Writers: Quinn Battersby *
Joanne Buchholzer
Luisa D’Amato, The Record Staff
Dev Handa *
Monica Himmelman *
Leanne Mountford **
John Sawicki *
Mike Shipley *
Aaron O’Connell **
Mary Wright *
Photos: Cover - Rick Kowalczykowski, *
icon Photography
Leanne Mountford **
Kevin Garrett, PKG Photography
Mathew McCarthy photo courtesy of The
Record, Waterloo Region, Ontario Canada
Leanne Mountford**
Robert Wilson photo courtesy of The Record,
Waterloo Region, Ontario Canada
Advertisement: Quinn Battersby ** Alumni Clothing Ad
* Conestoga Alumnus or ** Conestoga Student
Faculty Profile
The Spark that Ignites True Learning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Campus Update
Conestoga College Confers First Degrees . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Conestoga Students Pull Together for Dany . . . . . . . . . . . 20
$100,000 "Will Promote Links in Health Care . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Conestoga, Holmes Foundation Carry Out Community
Service Projects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Tuition-Free Pre-Apprenticeship Programs at Conestoga . 22
International Scholarship Honours for Architecture
Degree Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Conestoga Staff Reminisce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
The Annual Fund . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Alumni News & Views
Alumni Association President's Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
What the Alumni Association Funds Support . . . . . . . . . . 28
Family & Friends Orientation . . . a Huge Success . . . . . . . . 29
Applied Degree Scholarship Recipients 2007 . . . . . . . . . . 29
Alumni General Meeting Attracts Old Faces
and New Friends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
3rd Annual Conestoga Alumni Athletic Golf Tournament . 31
Dates to Remember . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Tickets Available . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
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Editors Notebook – Passing the Torch
(l-r) Mary Wright and Monica Himmelman
I am proud to be returning to the department
of Alumni Services and serving the College in
this new role. When I reflect upon my time
at Conestoga, I think of lifelong friendships
created, skills learned that have supported a
rewarding career, pride for the accomplishments
of this institution and a desire to give back. The
learning that takes place in this institution is
second to none and with our 9th consecutive
year as the #1 college in Ontario, we have much
of which to be proud!
As I write this message, we have had the first
snowfall of the season, students are finishing
Connections - winter 2008
As I put pen to paper—or more accurately
fingers to keyboard, for the last time as the
editor of Connections, I look back over the
nine years that I have been contributing to
and putting this magazine together. From
WordPerfect to Office and Photoshop, I have
had the opportunity to meet and celebrate the
personal and career successes of hundreds of
alumni, and to tell their stories.
It is fitting somehow that this issue reflects
40 years of Excellence in Education as we
commemorate the 40th anniversary of the
community college system in Ontario. I have
been connected with Conestoga for 39 of those
years—as a student, an alumnus, a volunteer,
an employee and a member of the associate
faculty. Over those years, and in all of those
roles I have been proud to be connected with,
and to represent Conestoga and the fine postsecondary
education that I earned here.
mid-terms and the holiday season is upon us.
Heading into this new year, I challenge you
to think about your positive experiences as a
student and to actively join us in giving back.
Whether it be as a mentor to current students
through our Gradvisor program, a volunteer
with our Alumni Association, or through
a financial gift to support the institution’s
initiatives, I can assure you that your
participation will be a rewarding experience.
Conestoga has grown and achieved excellence
under the astute leadership of our President,
John Tibbits. Our faculty and staff are second
As I plan for retirement, I look forward
to passing the editorial portfolio to my
friend, colleague and Manager, Mary Wright
(Recreation Leadership grad). Mary is no
stranger to many of you, having been the
founding Alumni Services Manager as well
as managing the Co-op and Career Services
department. What goes around comes around,
and in late summer of this year Mary assumed
the role of Manager of Alumni Services and
Annual Fund.
As I now pass the torch back to Mary, I wish
all of you the very best of the holiday season,
and in the year to come. I look forward to
remaining connected to Conestoga through
the Alumni Association as I move into this new
chapter in my life.
Conestoga celebrates its 40th birthday and
the air is full of change!
We love to hear from you!
Send your cards and letters to:
Mary Wright
Alumni Services Office
299 Doon Valley Drive
Kitchener, ON N2G 4M4
email: mwright@conestogac .on .ca
Editors Notebook
to none and the positive relationships they
build on a daily basis with our students provide
the foundation for the creation of the lifelong
relationships with our alumni.
Conestoga has achieved so much in its first
40 years. We hope you enjoy reminiscing and
reading about the achievements of our students
and alumni. As the saying goes, “Life begins
at 40!” Happy birthday, Conestoga. We look
forward to watching you prosper for the next
40 years.

Who are Conestoga’s grads? Innovators,
trailblazers, and community leaders. For
40 years, Conestoga graduates have made
significant contributions and affected positive
change in their respective communities.
Today they continue to play an integral role in
building community prosperity. As Conestoga
celebrates its 40th year, we pay tribute
through the stories of seven successful and
representative graduates from the past four
decades.
Meet Jill Herne, Director of Patient Care and
Chief Nursing Officer at Homewood Health
Centre in Guelph, Ontario. A three time
graduate of Conestoga, Jill began her career
path at Conestoga as a student in the Registered
Nursing Assistant program in 1969. “A girlfriend
suggested we take the course together. I was
just 19 years old with a new baby and no real
plan, so I thought it would be a lark for us to
take the course together.” As it turned out, Jill’s
friend changed her mind at the last minute, but
Jill forged ahead.
Once graduated, Jill worked in Obstetrics as a
RNA for several years and found she wanted to
do and learn more. She returned to Conestoga
for her Nursing diploma and graduated in
1979. Jill had completed one of her student
clinical placements at Homewood and loved the
experience. This created the impetus for her to
apply for an opportunity at Homewood and her
career has evolved with this organization over
the past 24 years. Most of her nursing career
was in psychiatry at Homewood Health Centre
where Jill has worked in a variety of front-line
and management positions. During this time,
Jill also completed a post-diploma program
through Conestoga in Psychiatric Nursing,
1988. A lifelong learner, Jill forged ahead and
in 1998 earned her Masters of Science Degree
in Community Health Administration and
Wellness Promotion from California College for
Health Sciences.
When asked how her program prepared
Cover Story
40 Years of Building Community Prosperity
by Mary Wright *
Jill Herne, Registered Nursing Assistant, 1970
her for her role today, Jill replied, “ Nurses’
training certainly provided me with a
knowledge base on which to build. Nursing
process, assessment and critical thinking skills
all translate into excellent tools, essential
to the every day life of a nurse, manager or
administrator.”
Her fondest memory of Conestoga life was
the history that came with having classes in
the nurses’ residence at the old St. Joseph’s
Hospital in Guelph. “My proudest moment was
at the ceremony when my class received black
bands for our caps. It was such an important
symbol and tradition.”
To new graduates, Jill offers this advice. “Your
attitude will have the greatest impact on your
life. It’s more important than anything. There
are many things in life you cannot change but
your attitude is the one thing you have total
control over.”
Bernie Melloul, Construction Engineering
Technology, 1972
Bernie Melloul is a well-known individual in
the Kitchener-Waterloo community as the Acting
President of Melloul-Blamey Construction and
its subsidiaries. Bernie is also well-known to
the Conestoga College community as a 1972
Construction Engineering Technology graduate.
In addition to his role with Melloul-Blamey,
Bernie is also a corporate partner with Dev
Handa’s (also a Construction graduate from
2006) metamorphHOUSES, a new modern
housing division offering design build services
for modern green dwellings.
When asked how his career path led to his role
today, Bernie reflects – “Learning from good
and bad people prepared me to understand
my own abilities. I developed courage and
determination from my parents and this,
combined with my formal education and
apprenticeship, prepared me for what I finally
embarked on to start Melloul-Blamey in 1982.”
“The program helped me to make a final
decision about what I would do to support
myself and my new family. When I entered the
program, I knew I would be involved in the
construction industry in some format.”
Bernie’s fondest memory is of Arden Mertz, the
long-standing Program Co-ordinator for the
Construction Engineering Technology program.
Bernie found Arden to be, “ a positive man with
contagious traits of all sorts.” Bernie will always
remember a personal conversation with Arden
that profoundly affected him. “You will succeed
at anything you do”, was Arden’s message.
Interestingly enough, Bernie had heard these
exact same words from his Grade 9 sheet metal
teacher who challenged Bernie with solving a
technical project problem. The rest must be
destiny.
What are Bernie’s words of wisdom to our new
graduates? “All graduates must realize that it is
a tough world and you need to be technically
strong. You must be a strong personality with
confidence and poise. You must be willing to
give of yourself to an employer and to your
community. Positive conduct in these camps
will open all the right doors.”
Sharron Gilbert, Business Administration -
Materials Management, 1985
Sharron Gilbert is President and CEO of
Septimatech, a Waterloo-based packaging firm.
Founded in 1993, the name is based on the
Latin word for seven, “septima” and represents
the seven founders. Septimatech is a Customer
centric organization providing product
solutions and expertise to the Packaging
Industry. The company specializes in designengineering
and manufacture of quick change
tooling for packaging machinery. Some of their
accounts include Proctor & Gamble, Unilever,
Clorox and S.C. Johnson.
Sharron’s career path began after graduation
when she worked for a metal stamping
company as a Production Scheduler. From
there, she had an opportunity to work in
Sales/Production Co-ordination at a Waterloo
based packaging company for four years.
Sharron was one of the founding members
of Septimatech along with her Father (step),
Peter Fenton. He had asked her if she would
be interested in being the President some
Connections - winter 2008
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day. Although the idea was exciting, Sharron
sadly assumed this role much sooner than
anticipated. Her Father fell ill and died of
cancer. Sharron became President in 2001.
As a student, Sharron was very involved in
Student Life and was the President of the
Guelph Student Association where her program
was delivered. Her memories of Conestoga are
clearly about the people and the friendships
made. She still maintains some of those
friendships and although she may not see them
regularly, she can pick up the phone and feel
reconnected immediately.
When asked how her program prepared her for
her role today, Sharron replied, “The program
had a lot of diversity. The full spectrum of
courses provided the knowledge base needed to
apply to the company.” Many of the skills she
learned at Conestoga are still used today.
Sharron’s advice to new graduates is to act
with the integrity of who you are. “Everyone
has challenges. It’s what you do with them that
makes the difference. At the end of the day you
have to feel good about your choices.”
Angie Hill may be very familiar to many of you,
or rather, her voice. Angie is one of the hosts
of 105.3 KoolFM’s morning show with Angie,
Mark and Brian.
Even though Angie graduated in 1991 from
the Print-Journalism program, she began her
career in Owen Sound at a radio station. She
worked there for approximately one year
before returning to Kitchener and joining the
KoolFM team, which she has been involved with
for ten years.
The fundamentals of editing, reporting,
sourcing materials and interviewing that she
learned in the program are also a fit in the
radio industry and provided a solid foundation
for her current role. “The hands-on
experience one gets in a college environment
like Conestoga is priceless. When it is time
Connections - winter 2008
Cover Story
40 Years of Building Community Prosperity - continued
Angie Hill, Journalism-Print, 1991
to get out into the workforce, you have the
confidence and the tools you need to be
successful in your chosen field.”
“My time at Conestoga College was filled with
great memories of fine and talented people and
more than qualified instructors who guided me
into the right direction in my chosen career.”
Angie’s advice to new graduates -“You know
what you want and it’s up to you to go out and
make it happen.”
Dave Arjune, Mechanical Engineering
Technology - Automated Manufacturing, 1991
Dave Arjune is President and Owner of Arjune
Engineering and Manufacturing Incorporated.
Founded in 1994, this company caters to
the automotive, military and aerospace
industries by making precision parts for
the manufacturing sector. Customers have
included Colt Canada, Teleflex GFI and Linamar.
Dave immigrated to Canada in 1981 from
Guyana. His first job in Canada was with
Eldorado Tool and Manufacturing where he was
a CNC Lathes and Milling Machine Operator. He
progressed quickly within this company and
became the Machine Shop Supervisor. While
with Eldorado, Dave recognized that he would
need further education in order to grow beyond
this role. He decided that he would enroll at
Conestoga in Mechanical Engineering. In order
to do this, Dave had to resign from Eldorado to
attend college.
As a student, Dave still needed a full-time job
to support his family while attending school so
he secured a position with Centra Industries.
This company was so supportive of Dave’s
education that they accommodated his need
to work evenings while also paying for his
tuition and books. He worked evenings as a
Shift Supervisor and a week after graduation,
became Plant Manager. One year later, Dave
was the Engineering Manager.
At this time, Centra had a change in management
and Dave decided it was time to leave for
opportunities elsewhere. He received a number
of calls from customers who were familiar with
his work and it created the impetus for him to
open Arjune Engineering and Manufacturing
(AEM). Dave’s career path is evidence of the
preparation he received through his studies at
Conestoga. Today, AEM has annual sales over
$1.5 million.
While at Conestoga, Dave not only maintained
an “A” average in a demanding program while
working full-time, he also found time to give
back as a peer tutor. He has always supported
the College’s initiatives. Recently Dave was
appointed to the College’s Board of Governors.
Dave’s advice – “Try to excel because hard
work always pays off.”
Farrah Rodgers, Manufacturing for Women
– Metal Machining/Tool and Die, 2002
Farrah Rodgers has had great support as
a woman in a non-traditional role with the
organizations with whom she has worked. Her
current role as a General Machinist for Strite
Industries involves EDM machining in the Wire
EDM department. EDM machining is very
precise work and her machining background
was integral to her success in securing this
position.
“The courses I took at Conestoga prepared me
for my current job by giving me the knowledge
and understanding of what is happening during
the erosion process and the ability to do my job
with confidence.” Farrah is passionate about
promoting career opportunities within the
trades. “Skilled trades are fun, rewarding and
very challenging. There are great stories to be
told and people need to hear them.”
Farrah’s fondest memory of her time at
Conestoga was meeting her boyfriend. Although
she sat in front of him daily for two years, they
only exchanged pleasantries. It wasn’t until she
hosted a year-end party that they connected.
They’ve been together ever since.
Farrah advises new graduates to learn as much
as they can from the trained people they work
with and to always learn from their mistakes.

Marisa Havens, Architecture – Project and
Facility Management, 2007
As a high school student, Marisa Havens was
interested in being an engineer but decided she
preferred a more “hands-on” approach. “The
Project and Facility Management program at
Conestoga seemed like the perfect opportunity
for the future career I was seeking”, she says.
While a student at Conestoga, Marisa was the
recipient of numerous scholarships and awards,
including the President’s Degree Entrance
Scholarship and the Architecture Academic
Proficiency Awards in Years 1, 2 and 3. In
Cover Story
addition, she was named the Provincial and
National Co-op Student of the Year award
recipient in 2007 by Education at Work Ontario
(EWO) and the Canadian Association for Cooperative
Education (CAFCE). Her program
involved four work term opportunities, but it
was when she worked for Aecon Industrial in the
construction project management field that she
discovered her true niche. This co-op
experience led to her current role as a Project
Co-ordinator for the same company.
In this capacity, Marisa is responsible for
budget administration and effective planning
and scheduling of work which involves a wide
range of communication with field personnel,
subcontractors, engineering firms and clients.
She troubleshoots issues with all of these
players and ensures management is aware of
progress and any risks or problem areas. “I
absolutely love my job and the direction it is
taking me.”
Marisa found her program content provided a
solid basic understanding of the fundamentals
required for the construction industry. In
addition, the co-op work terms offered valuable
experience. Group studio projects on campus
also allowed for students to choose a role
Tuesday April 29, 2008
Conestoga College
Recreation Centre
Exhibition: 1 pm - 5 pm
Featured Programs:
• Architecture Project and Facility Management (Degree)
• Architecture Construction Engineering
• Civil & Environmental Engineering
• Computer Engineering • Computer Programmer
• Computer Programmer/Analyst • Electronics Engineering-Telecom
• Integrated Advanced Manufacturing Technologies (Degree)
• Integrated Telecommunications & Computer Technologies (Degree)
• IT Support Services • Mechanical Engineering
• Software Engineering • Woodworking
based upon their career interests. For Marisa,
once she decided on project management, she
took this role for studio group assignments.
“This allowed me to gain valuable leadership
experience through focusing specific interests
of individual team members towards one
common goal,” she says.
When asked about her fondest memory of
Conestoga, she spoke warmly about the allnighters
before Studio presentations. Although
stressful at the time, it was these sessions
where moral support was provided and true
friendships and bonds were formed.
Her advice for new graduates - “Attitude is
everything.” Marisa firmly believes in treating
everyone with respect and kindness. “Although
your position may be more prestigious
than some, it doesn’t mean you can’t learn
something from everyone you meet,” she says.
“Your everyday interactions speak louder than
you ever could. They define who you are.”
With these proven track records of success,
there is no doubt that these Conestoga mentors
will influence continued success for future
graduates.
Your invitation
to innovation!
This is the opportunity you’ve been waiting
for! On Tuesday April 29, 2008 at Conestoga
College Institute of Technology and
Advanced Learning, experience the
creativity, quality and exceptional skills of
our graduating students.
You are invited to enter into a special
partnership with Conestoga.
Sponsorship of Tech@Work 2008 gives your
organization the opportunity to promote
itself to Conestoga’s Engineering and
Information Technology students.
Contact: Julie Gillis,
jgillis@conestogac.on.ca 519-748-5220 x3285
Connections - winter 2008
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Benjamin Eby: 1996 Construction Engineering
Technology
With an enthusiasm for life which is
demonstrated through his accessible and open
manner and illustrated by the bright smiles on
his employees’ faces, Benjamin Eby continues
to excel while encouraging new Conestoga
graduates to do the same.
Ben graduated from Conestoga in 1996
with a diploma in Construction Engineering
Technology.
Following a brief period of employment with
a millwork contractor, he decided to strike
out into the world of business by taking his
freelance interest into a full-time venture.
In 1996, he established Greystone Design
Group Incorporated in Kitchener. This retail/
architectural design enterprise has enjoyed
growth and success, and served such nationally
known clients as Sobeys, Home Hardware, IDA/
Guardian, Toys R Us and McDonald’s.
Currently, Ben runs an office filled with 24
hardworking employees and 18 of them are
Conestoga graduates. Ben’s wife, Stephanie,
who graduated with his class, holds the
position of Chief Financial Officer.
The reason Ben likes to hire other Conestoga
grads is what he calls “one of the company’s best
kept secrets. We seem to be able to naturally
build upon the training graduates have. We
are familiar with their skills and know what to
expect and how to develop these skills further.”
The staff at Greystone Design Group Inc. say
Ben makes it a lot of fun to come to work
everyday. They always know he will have a new
challenge for the team and he’ll be alongside
them every step of the way. Ben is a leader who
takes the thoughts and ideas of his employees
very seriously. They think so highly of Ben that
they nominated him for this award!
Ben has given his time and expertise back to
Conestoga as a member of the judging panel
­ Connections - winter 2008
Grad Profile
Alumnus of Distinction Award Recipients `07
by Leanne Mountford **
associated with the Mastercraft Award for
student technical project excellence and has
been a guest speaker at the annual program
awards banquet.
Linda Hart: 1996 Human Resources
Dedicated, hard-working and selfless are just a
few words which can be used when describing
Linda Hart.
Linda was working full-time at Conestoga
College as an Ontario Skills Development
Assistant when she decided to enroll in the
Human Resources certificate program. She
gradated from the program in 1996 and then
went on to earn a certificate in Adult Education
from Brock University.
Linda continued her career working as a Co-op
Advisor at Conestoga where she was responsible
for providing support to approximately 120
students per semester. Linda says she gained
personal satisfaction in their success and in
helping them overcome work term challenges.
“Knowing that co-op education assisted them in
achieving their career goals is very rewarding,”
says Linda.
"Most of Linda's family have some kind of
involvement with Conestoga. She has three
children, her daughter, Christine, is a graduate
of Conestoga's Early Childhood Education
program (ECE) and her son, Michael, has
recently completed a course through continuing
education and is now a registered apprentice.
Her step-son Steven, is a recent graduate of
Durham College. Linda's husband, Adrian, is
employed by Conestoga College as a Business
Systems Analyst. "
Linda has recently left her position with
Conestoga to become Assistant Director of Cooperative
Education and Career Services at the
University of Guelph where she helps manage a
team of 25 staff.
Linda’s involvement with the community is
remarkable. She has been volunteering with
Skills Canada for the last seven years and was
the recipient of the 2007 Glenn Beatty Award
for outstanding contribution to Skills Canada
– Ontario. Linda is currently President of
the Canadian Association for Co-operative
Education (CAFCE) and Past-President of
Education at Work Ontario (EWO). She is
also a member of the Human Resources
Professional Association of Ontario (HRPAO).
Linda’s support of the Canadian Breast Cancer
Foundation CIBC Run is personal. In 2002, she
was diagnosed with breast cancer. Linda and
her colleagues have participated in the run as a
team for three years including the year that she
was receiving radiation treatment.
Linda’s Conestoga colleagues say she has
an abundance of energy and enthusiasm for
helping others and is a true role model and
leader to her peers and the community.
Betty Allensen: 1979 Three Dimensional Design
Betty Allensen’s artistic flair for design, her
independent nature and her passion to help
in the community combine to make her an
inspiration to many people.
Betty graduated from Conestoga College’s Three
Dimensional Design program in 1979 where
she says, not only did she earn her diploma,
but she grew and matured as a person and
forged many great and long-lasting friendships.
In 1981, Betty continued her academic pursuits
and took an Architectural Drafting course at
Ryerson Polytechnical Institute. She has also
received her certification from Construction
Specifications Canada – Level 1, and Principles
of Construction Specifications – Level 2,
Construction Contract Administrator.
After working at Design Tech Associates Inc. for
nine years, Betty decided to strike out on her
own. In 1990, she started Allensen Interiors
& Associates Inc., a company which deals
primarily in commercial design. Her business
has grown to be one of the top interior design

firms in the K-W area. Some of her clients
include Marsland Center Limited, Sybase Inc.,
Arise Technologies, Humpty Dumpty Snack
Foods and the Northfield Racquet Club.
Betty has two employees who are both
Conestoga graduates. She says Conestoga
graduates are good, qualified students and she
likes to support her College.
Betty has a wealth of credentials. She is
registered with the Association of Registered
Interior Designers of Ontario (ARIDO) and
certified by the National Council of Interior
Design Qualifiers (NCIDQ). She has been very
active with both of these organizations, and is
Past-President of the Grand Valley chapter of
ARIDO where she remains an active member.
She is also a facilitator for NCIDQ. Betty received
an honourarium from ARIDO for member
service from 1999 to 2002 and is on the judging
committee for the ARIDO awards. Betty is also a
member of Interior Designers of Canada (IDC).
At the present time Betty is very involved with
the Hope Spring Cancer Support Centre. Her
interest and passion came about when she was
diagnosed with breast cancer in 2003. As a
breast cancer survivor, she says it is now her
chance to give back all the support and help
they gave her throughout her illness. She was
actively involved with the planning for its new
facility in Cambridge, which opened its doors
in September 2007.
During the summer of 2007, Betty was invited
to sit on the Program Development Advisory
Committee (PDAC) for Conestoga.
Betty is described by her friends and associates
as a strong leader and a strong team player.
She definitely illustrates a great deal of
dedication to her work and her community.
Tony Atkins: 1992 Law & Security Administration
Tony did not leave Conestoga College unnoticed
taking a faculty-sponsored award with him and
achieving the President’s Honour List when he
graduated in 1992.
Grad Profile
Alumnus of Distinction Award Recipients `07 continued
In 1996, Tony along with his business partner
Gary Arthur, formed Tone-Gar Security Services
Inc. The Kitchener-based company has steadily
grown and employs approximately 200 full and
part-time staff members. In an industry survey,
it was rated among the top three security
companies in the area.
Tone-Gar Security Services has had a variety
of clients throughout Southern Ontario.
The company provides security service and
personnel for many different sites.
Tony successfully completed the Professional
Security Training Network (PSTN) in order to
become a trainer and does all of the personal
training for the company. He is a member of
the American Society of Industrial Security
(ASIS) and is presently taking a course to
obtain his certified Protection Officer (CPO)
designation, a North American designation.
As well as working hard to maintain the
company success, Tony is very involved in the
community as an 18th degree Scottish Rite
Mason and a Shriner. He took on a leadership
role as Master of his Lodge this year and
devotes a lot of time to those responsibilities.
Along with the local Shrine club, he is also a
member of the Waterloo Oriental Shrine Band
and marches in various parades.
Tony is a former member of the Kitchener
Rangers Junior A hockey team, and was captain
of the Conestoga hockey team while at the
College. He coached AAA minor hockey with
his brother for seven years and is now a head
instructor for the Twin City Hockey School where
he coaches skating in a year-round program.
Tony is also a family man. He and his wife have
four children. Currently the three eldest are
training in Kung Fu for the Canadian national
team.
Tony excels at being there for others and Gary
says, “He is the type of person who would give
you the shirt off his back and then look for
another shirt if you needed it. Tony has taught
me so much and his knowledge of security is
second to none”.
Dave Schneider: Broadcasting, Radio and
Television
Known for his hearty laugh, bright smile, big
bear hugs and of course his amazing voice, Dave
just keeps moving forward in his career.
After Dave’s first year in the Broadcasting,
Radio and Television program in 1977, he was
hired at 570 CHYM, now CHYM FM as a parttime
operator. In February of 1979 he moved
to the microphone and began a 14 year ride on
the CHYM airwaves.
In February of 1994, Dave moved to KOOL
FM/Oldies 1090 and eventually became the
assistant program director. He spent over 12
happy years there. In July 2006 Dave accepted
the position of program director of KICX-106
FM where he doubles as an on-air host.
While a student at the college, Dave became the
music director for Conestoga’s closed circuit
radio station CKER and has since returned
to the college to encourage a generation of
broadcasters to follow in his footsteps both as
a mentor and from 1989 to 1993 as a part-time
instructor.
Over the years, Dave has been very involved
within the community. He has volunteered to
help at events for many different non-profit
organizations including the HopeSpring Cancer
Support Centre, the United Way, The Canadian
Cancer Society, Big Sisters and the Canadian
Lung Association. Dave is also the Public
Address voice for the Kitchener Rangers.
With his hard work and dedication to his
career and community, Dave was inducted into
Conestoga’s Broadcast, Radio and Television
Hall of Fame in 2007. He was further
honoured at the 2007 Convocation by being
named an Alumnus of Distinction. Dave is very
proud and appreciative of his time at Conestoga
College.
Connections - winter 2008
­­

­
Call For Nomination
ALUMNUS OF DISTINCTION AWARD NOMINATION FORM 2008
DEADLINE APRIL 11, 2008
Nominee
Nominee's Full Name _____________________________________________________________________________
Nominee's Mailing Address _________________________________________________________________________
Telephone ________________________________Fax _________________________ Email ___________________
Program(s) of Study _____________________________________________________ Class Of _________________
Other Education ________________________________________________________________________________
Nominees' Current Position/Occupation ________________________________________________________________
Nominator
Nominator's Name _______________________________________________ Alumnus of Conestoga College r Yes r No
Nominator's Address _____________________________________________________________________________
Telephone ________________________________Fax _________________________ Email ___________________
Nominator's Signature ____________________________________________________________________________
Reference(s)
For each nominee the following supporting documentation is required:
• One-page summary of the nominee's achievements highlighting career, social/community contribution and any other achievements/
awards or professional recognition
• Nominee's résumé
• Optional, any other supporting documentation (i.e., media coverage)
Please submit nominations to Conestoga College, Alumni Services Department,
299 Doon Valley Drive, Kitchener ON N2G 4M4 Tel. 519-748-5220, ext. 3459 or Email alumni@conestogac.on.ca
Connections - winter 2008
Grad Profile
Are­you­looking­for­an­interesting­and­rewarding­volunteer­experience?
We Need You!
The­Alumni­Association­of­Conestoga­Collegeis­looking­for­enthusiastic­volunteers­to­join­itsdedicated­team.­We­need­volunteers­to­help­with­committee­work,­special­events­and­organizing­off-campus­Alumni­Chapters.
Please­contact­Mary­Wright­at­­
9- - 0,­ext.­ ­or­emailmwright@conestogac.on.ca­for­more­information­about­these­exciting­opportunities.

Grad Profile
metamorphHOUSES –
Melloul-Blamey’s Latest Venture
by Dev Handa, 2006 Architecture – Construction Engineering Technology *
Dev Handa returned to school in his late 30's
in order to scratch an itch that just wouldn’t go
away. Educated at the University of Waterloo as
a civil engineer, and equipped with a master’s
degree in real estate development from MIT
plus most of his doctorate in economics
from Northwestern University, he decided,
at 38, to finally address a lifelong passion
for architecture. He graduated in 2006
from Conestoga’s Architecture-Construction
Engineering Technology program, and now
finds himself in partnership with Melloul-
Blamey Construction.
“I left economics with the idea of building
modern houses in Kitchener-Waterloo, to which
I had returned after nine years in the States. I
had lived in Boston, San Francisco, and, most
recently, Chicago. During my four years in
Chicago, I saw a great deal of redevelopment
activity in the northern suburbs. There was,
and continues to be, considerable variety
in housing design in Chicago, and I was
particularly grateful to experience firsthand and
daily, historic examples of modernism from the
1920s through 1950s.”
“Without a doubt, my three year stint at
Conestoga is the most important piece in
my education portfolio.”
When Dev and his wife, Alison Waltch, returned
to Waterloo with their two young children in
1997, his plan was to finally start to design
and build modern houses. “I soon realized,
however, that my experience in housing was
very specific to a few functions, and, despite
my engineering degree, I really lacked a lot
of hands-on skills that I felt I needed.” Dev
looked at part-time studies at Conestoga,
but was soon steered in the direction of
considering a return to full-time education.
When he came across the Architecture-
Engineering diploma program, he felt that it
had just the combination of skills, with only
a limited amount of overlap with his earlier
engineering degree. “My passion to build these
modern houses, coupled with the fact that I
was both financially able to return to school
and lucky enough to be married to the most
incredibly supportive spouse anyone could
imagine, led me to commit to the three years
and do it properly.”
Dev now looks at his three year stint at
Conestoga as, without a doubt, the most
important piece in his education portfolio.
Says Dev: “without a doubt, my three year stint
at Conestoga is the most important piece in my
education portfolio.” See, we told you.
Dev Handa on campus
“I often think of what I paid in the U.S. and
what I got in return, and compare that to the
training and skills I received from Conestoga.
On the tuition side, what I paid to Conestoga
was, frankly, a relative pittance; I cannot stop
shaking my head at the value I received from
Conestoga, even now. I know that I might
offend some people by referring to the tuition
in such a cavalier manner, but, once you’re a
few years past graduation, and you have the
ability to see the dollar value of your tuition
with the perspective of what it takes to run a
household, life or business, you cannot help
but see that total as relatively small compared
to the value you’ve received from it. This
sentiment leads naturally to the desire to
give something back to the College, and help
students for whom tuition, modest as it might
seem a few years later, nonetheless presents a
real and immediate challenge or obstacle to
obtaining a great education.”
Dev and Alison decided to establish a
modest prize within the Architecture-
Engineering Technology Program. The
award recognizes and is intended to
promote excellence in oral and written
communication, skills which often are
underappreciated among students.
Based on that sentiment, and based also upon
a frequently-repeated observation which he
had heard from industry, Dev and Alison
decided to establish a modest prize within
the Architecture-Engineering Technology
Program. The award recognizes and is
intended to promote excellence in oral and
written communication, skills which often are
underappreciated among students. “I wanted
those who followed me to gain a better sense of
how important these communication skills are,
as a natural complement to the technical skills
they’ve gained from their time at Conestoga.”
It was during Program Advisory Committee
meetings, which he attended as a student
representative, that Dev met his eventual
employer/business partner, Bernie Melloul of
Melloul-Blamey Construction. When Dev would
venture an opinion on one issue or another,
Bernie used to ask himself “who is this guy,
and how did he get here?” Upon graduation,
Dev approached Bernie for a job interview and
subsequently floated the idea of starting a new
modern housing division of Melloul-Blamey
which would leverage the firm’s expertise and
reputation in institutional, commercial and
industrial (ICI) construction. Bernie and his
partners asked Dev to return with a business
plan, which Dev did; metamorphHOUSES
was born.
Dev approached Bernie for a job interview
and subsequently floated the idea of
starting a new modern housing division of
Melloul-Blamey
Bernie and his partners asked Dev to
return with a business plan, which Dev did;
metamorphHOUSES was born.
Says Dev: “I approached Bernie with the idea
of starting my venture within the context of
Melloul-Blamey for much the same reason
I decided to attend Conestoga full-time.
When I went back to school, my alternative
was to piece together the various bits and
pieces of training which I felt I needed, and
basically go it alone. Conversely, going to
Conestoga provided a comprehensive basket
of training and exposed me to people and
opportunities that might otherwise have been
out of reach. Similarly, I could have started
metamorphHOUSES alone, but by joining
Melloul-Blamey I knew I would have access
to a wide range of technical expertise, moral
support, mentoring and instant credibility. I
continue to thank Conestoga for helping the
stars finally align the right way in my career,
after years of frustration.” Dev credits the
support he received from the faculty, fellow
students, and Conestoga’s counseling services
for helping him to finally realize his dream.
So now, Melloul-Blamey Construction, which
has just celebrated its 25th anniversary as
a pre-eminent player in the ICI building
construction market, is preparing to launch its
exciting new brand.
Connections - winter 2008
9
­­

­ 0
metamorphHOUSES - continued
The company will offer design build services
for modern green dwellings through this new
subsidiary, metamorphHOUSES. In doing
so, it will be the first residential building
operation in the area dedicated to offering
the kinds of features, finishes and spaces
commonly associated with lofts to individual
homeowners who would like to live in a more
modern, streamlined space. Furthermore,
Bernie and Dev expect that the progressive,
design-savvy clients they will attract with their
metamorphHOUSES brand will also be
receptive to green innovations. Accordingly,
metamorphHOUSES will hit the ground
running by being prepared to offer a suite of
environmentally-friendly products and building
approaches, including green roofs and grey
water recycling, for example. But modernism
is the trump card.
Rather than entering the business as a
production builder fixed to a particular
subdivision, metamorphHOUSES will
offer design and construction services to
individual clients and expects that the majority
of its work will take place as intensification
projects within established neighbourhoods.
Looking ahead to the limits on the physical
spread of southwestern Ontario cities,
metamorphHOUSES has positioned itself
to offer upwardly mobile homeowners
an alternative to moving to a greenfield
development of large, similar homes. Part of
the philosophy is to begin each project with
a blank sheet of paper, and work with the
client to first understand, and then realize
their aspirations for the kind of space in which
they’d like to live.
Connections - winter 2008
Grad Profile
metamorphHOUSES' first project in Waterloo is Dev and Alison’s home.
Since the venture targets the renovation
market, each project is inherently custom.
But by bringing its commercial expertise to
residential design and construction, a vast new
range of products and building approaches
becomes available. This fact is readily
apparent to anyone who even casually walks
by metamorphHOUSES’s first project, at 472
Parkwood Court in Waterloo, which is Dev and
Alison’s home.
A striking, metal-clad, flat-roofed box with
unusual window patterns, interesting angles
and exposed structural elements, appears
to rise from a typical 1960's suburban side
split home. Around the back, an unusual
concrete detail was conceived by the general
construction superintendent of Melloul Blamey,
Tim Henhoeffer (whose own son Kurtis is in
the first year of the Architecture-Construction
Engineering Technology program), in order to
minimize damage to a mature sugar maple. A
portion of the basement was sacrificed, and the
concrete foundation was cantilevered out
Volunteers Wanted for Study
into free space, so that the excavation of the
building could leave the tree’s entire root ball
in tact. Though it came at an incremental cost,
the entire building team has been able to take
pride in the fact that they accomplished a feat of
“green building” by undertaking an innovation
that others might have deemed technically or
economically infeasible.
Numerous design cues are the earmarks of
a residential renovation that leaps right from
the pages of a progressive, modern design
magazine. Melloul-Blamey is using the project
to showcase its high levels of innovation and
quality, which are the hallmarks of its core
ICI business and the seeds of its new brand,
metamorphHOUSES. Bernie and Dev
welcome any alumni to call them and arrange
a tour of the construction site, or sit down and
dream a little about how metamorphHOUSES
can help them realize their own modern green
dwelling.
Concludes Dev: “metamorphHOUSES is
about change. And it’s about houses.” To that
he winks and adds “Thanks, Conestoga. I can’t
stop smiling.”
Researchers­from­the­Department­of­Psychology­at­the­University­of­Waterloo­seek­participants­for­astudy­on­work­attitudes­and­work­behaviors.­­You­may­be­eligible­to­be­a­participant­if­you:­­
•­­Are­employed­in­a­full-time­job­(i.e.,­work­a­minimum­of­ ­hours/week)­
•­­Have­regular­contact­with­other­people­in­your­work­organization­(e.g.,­you­interact­with­work­peersand­supervisor­daily)­
•­­Are­willing­to­nominate­a­work­peer­whom­you­think­would­be­interested­in­completing­a­survey­onyour­work­attitudes­and­behaviours.­
Participants­and­their­work­peers­will­receive­$ 0­each­in­appreciation­for­their­time­and­their­names­will­be­entered­into­a­draw­for­ ­of­ ­$ 00­cashprizes.­­­
This­study­has­received­ethics­clearance­through­Conestoga­College’s­Research­Ethics­Board,­University­of­Waterloo’s­Office­of­Research­Ethics,­andhas­the­support­of­Conestoga­College’s­Alumni­Services.­­A­copy­of­the­study­results­will­be­provided­to­Alumni­Services.­­If­you­have­any­commentsor­concerns­resulting­from­your­participation­in­this­study,­please­feel­free­to­contact­Jane­McDonald,­Chair,­Research­Ethics­Board,­Conestoga­
College­ITAL,­at­ 9- - 0­ext.­ 9 ­or­by­email­at­jmcdonald@conestogac.on.ca­
To­volunteer,­or­for­more­details­on­the­study,­please­go­to­www.arts.uwaterloo.ca/~waassdt/Poli/polipt/­

Grape Vine
Keeping in touch with us will keep you in touch with your classmates! Send us an update and it will be included in the next issue of Connections.
To protect the privacy of our alumni, we do not publish addresses. If you want a message forwarded, we will forward mail on your behalf. Please call
519-748-5220, ext. 3463 or email jbuchholzer@conestogac.on.ca and we will connect you. Thank you to all those who have sent in updates. Due to
space availability, some messages may be edited in order to maximize feedback from all alumni members.
Broadcasting – Radio
& Television
1980
Gary Wheeler writes, “I’m
pleased to share the news that I
have recently received a Gemini
nomination for Best Writing In
A Children’s Or Youth Program
Or Series for my Jacob Two-Two
episode, ‘Jacob Two-Two and the
Hockey Seat Hoopla.’ I have been
writing cartoons for a decade
now, and have credits on Stickin’
Around, Flying Rhino Jr. High,
Moville Mysteries, and two earlier
Jacob episodes. But “Hockey Seat
Hoopla," which was inspired by
a sportscast in which I saw yet
another classic sports stadium
meet the wrecking ball, is my best
work to date. Kudos to everyone
at 9 Story Entertainment who did
such a marvelous job of turning my
script into such a fantastic episode.
Though I did not ultimately win
the award, it was a great honour
to be nominated in such a strong
category. Kids' television in Canada
is on par with the best in the world,
and I am proud to be a part of it.”
2005
It’s been a breathtaking two years for
2005 broadcasting grad Matt Ruiss
since leaving the halls of Conestoga
behind. After a brief stint straight out
of college at K-W’s New Hit Music
Station 91.5 The Beat, a morning
co-host gig took him across
the province to join the Rogers
Communications Family at Q92/EZ
Rock in Timmins, Ontario. The
burgeoning personality was selected
as one of 45 radio members to join
CBC Television’s ‘Test the Nation:
IQ’, a nation wide program which
aired in March 2007. Ruiss and
the Timmins newsroom struck
gold this spring claiming a Radio
and Television News Directors
Association Award for a 5 part miniseries
on breast cancer awareness.
The local Chamber of Commerce
has since named him winner of the
‘2007 Media Person of the Year’ for
commitment to both the station and
contribution to promotion of the
business community. Ruiss call it
proof that the small town choice can
lead to big time success.
Business
Administration
– Accounting
1999
Mirek Pawelec let us know about
3 important happenings, “1. I
obtained the CGA designation
earlier this year which led to a
promotion to assistant controller
with my current employer. The
CGA formal ceremony is to be
held in November. 2. I’m pleased
to announce the birth of my first
child, Melanie Danielle born on
March 31, 2007 (30 min before
April Fool’s) weighing 8lb 15oz.
My wife and I quickly realized that
we’re going to need more room,
so we purchased a house and
will be moving this summer. 3. I
have been accepted into an MBA
program at Laurentian University
and will be starting studies this
September. Boy… it’s been a busy
year :-)”
Business
Administration –
Management Studies
1999
Brent and Kathy (Vaisochr)
Himmelman proudly announce
the birth of their son Jon Brent
on October 23, 2007. Mom,Dad
and Golden Lab Cody are doing
very well and Jon has every heart
melting with his sweet smiles.
Business
Administration
– Marketing
1995
Charlotte Hopkins writes, “I
was wondering if you could let
our fellow alumni know that my
husband, Geoff and I had our third
child, Megan Charlotte, on July 31,
2007 weighting 7 lbs. 15.5 oz. A
sister for Jordan and Evan.”
Civil Engineering
Technology
1999
"It's been a while since I talked
to some of you, I hope you're all
doing well! Merry Christmas from
cold Calgary !!"
Nader Hanna (El-Sarraf)
Construction
Maintenance
Electrician
2006
Adam Flannery writes, “Just thought
I would mention that I did pass
the CofQ and received my Licence.
I appreciate all the help from the
teachers and will be using all the
knowledge for years to come.”
Early Childhood
Education
1991
Jacquie Mohr (McNichol)
writes, “Hello everyone! I am an
Educational Assistant for the Avon
Maitland District School Board
for the past 11 years and love it.
I would love to hear from anyone
from our class to catch up. There
is lots to catch up on considering
it has been 16 years!!”
1999
Congratulations to Heather Chute
who adopted a little boy in June
2006.
2001
Amy Emmerton (Zimmerman)
welcomed baby Zachary Matthew
on December 5, 2005.
Educational Assistant
2005
Debra Ashwood was hired by
the Peel District School Board
in 2005, where she continues to
work. She is currently upgrading
her skills as an Autism Intervenor.
Debra sends out a hello to all her
fellow classmates.
Graphic Design
2000
Brigitte Land (Alge) writes,
“My husband Christopher and
I are excited to announce that
our energetic little girl, Abigail
Raven Land, arrived this year
on August 4th. She was born at
home a healthy 8 pounds and
21" long. After a much needed
break, I am slowly getting back
into running my graphic design
business. Among other things,
I'm designing personalized birth
announcements. Check them out
at www.weewelcomes.com.”
Connections - winter 2008
­­

­
Industrial
Maintenance
Mechanic
1986
Victor Nott reports, “I became
an Interprovincial Millwright
upon graduation. Graduated
as a Construction Engineering
Technician in 1994 from Loyalist
College and I am now retired!
Gone Fishing!”
Journalism- Print
1999
Venus Cahill has recently joined the
Fort McKay First Nation as their
Marketing Advisor. She works
closely with the Chief and Council,
the Group of Companies and the
Band Administration, and is
looking forward to promoting her
community to gain respect and
business. Fort McKay First Nation is
located approximately 65 km north
of Fort McMurray, Alberta and is
composed of Cree and Dene people
who have for generations practiced
hunting, trapping, fishing and
gathering along the Athabasca
River. They were nomadic people,
but with the introduction of the fur
trade, were persuaded to settle
near trading posts. Because of its
geographic location, Fort McKay
has had many opportunities to
work with several oil sands
industries by developing its own
companies. Fort McKay has seized
opportunities for participation in
Protecting Your Privacy
Connections - winter 2008
Grape Vine
the economy to create sustainable,
long-term growth and development
within Aboriginal communities. In
1986, the Fort McKay Group of
Companies was established, which
is fully owned and operated by the
community. The Group serves a
number of corporate clients in
northeastern Alberta: from the oil
sands, pipelines and forestry
industries to the public sector. In
addition to this, Fort McKay First
Nation has also established
numerous Joint Venture
Companies.
Law and Security
Administration
1995
After graduating from Conestoga,
Bruno Miron was hired by the
Toronto Police Service. Over the
past 12 years he has worked in
various units including Warrants,
CIB, CRU community responses
and undercover in ajor crimes. He
was promoted to Sergeant in April
2007 and is currently working at
23 Division. Special thanks to Don
Douglas who was such a positive
influence in Bruno’s life!
Mechanical Engineering
Technology- Automated
Manufacturing
1999
Sam and Lynette (Ralph) Bartos
write, "We would like to announce
our new arrival, Samuel Izak. He
came into our lives on July 26,
2007, two weeks after our 10th
wedding anniversary. Samuel
weighted 10 lbs and measured
22 inches long. Lynette is a
1997 graduate of the Nursing
program and is enjoying maternity
leave from Cambridge Memorial
Hospital as a staff RN on the
inpatient mental health unit.
Sam is a 1999 graduate of the
Mechanical Engineering - AM
program. He currently works
for NDI in Waterloo as a Quality
Assurance Representative. We
are grateful to Conestoga for the
quality education we received."
Nursing
2001
Jay Loosley, a 2001 grad. from
the Nursing program was recently
married and subsequently started
his own business, Lifeskills First
Aid Services. The business offers
all Red Cross First Aid and CPR
courses including AED training.
To find out more about Jay's
business you can e-mail him at
lifeskillsfirstaid@hotmail.com .
Office Systems Administration
Office Systems
Administration
1998
Shayla Nelson reports that she and
her common law spouse, Cory
Kirkpatrick have two boys, ages
12 years and 11 months, new
baby due in May 2008. Currently
a homemaker who loves to bake
low-sugar treats and bread.”
Welding Engineering
Technician
1999
Jeff Crawford writes; "Just seeing
who is around and what everyone
is up to these days. Wasn't life
much easier while we were in
school?"
Woodworking
Technology
1995
Matt Storch opened a new
restaurant called Café on King at
656 King Street E., Preston. He is
also working for CNC Automation.
2003
Congratulations to Dan Bycraft
who got married on Nov. 3, 2007.
Our­substantial­alumni­membership­( 0,000­and­growing)­enables­us­to­negotiate­valuable­services­and­affinity­partnerships­thatcan­benefit­our­graduates.­­For­example,­we­are­able­to­provide­group­rates­for­home­and­auto­insurance.­­These­partnerships­alsoprovide­a­source­of­revenue­that­is­used­to­support­alumni­services,­events­and­student­awards­and­initiatives.
Your­personal­information­is­used­for­the­administrative­purposes­of­the­Alumni­Services­department­to­communicate­informationabout­alumni­events,­reunions­and­approved­affinity­partnerships­that­have­been­carefully­researched­on­your­behalf.­­We­do­not­sellour­lists­to­other­parties.
If­you­no­longer­wish­your­name­to­be­included­for­these­benefits,­you­can­contact­the­Alumni­Services­department­with­yourrequest.­­It­is­possible­for­us­to­exclude­your­name­from­specific­promotions­while­still­ensuring­that­you­are­included­for­otherservices­including­reunions­and­the­alumni­magazine,­Connections.­

In Memoriam
In Memoriam information is drawn from a variety of sources including newspaper obituaries and
personal communications. The brevity of some entries reflects the limited nature of information received.
Due to space constraints, it is not always possible to run full-length obituaries.
Rob Plunkett (1984 Law and Security Administration)
Rob Plunkett, a Detective-Constable with York Regional Police’s elite special services unit was killed in the line of
duty on August 2, 2007, while investigating a car airbag theft ring in Markham. A family man, Rob leaves behind
his wife Sonja, and their three children, Amanda, Jeffrey and Matthew. Police officers from across Canada joined family, friends, and dignitaries
to pay their respects at his funeral held in August. In his honour, a memorial award is being established in his memory by his family and fellow
program alumni as described in the letter below.
Dear Colleagues:
This past summer, we lost our colleague, Rob Plunkett, in the line of duty. You were probably as shocked and saddened as I was to learn of his
untimely death. Upon hearing this news, several classmates, along with Rob’s family, have decided to give something back to Conestoga to honour
his memory.
We have established the Rob Plunkett Memorial Award to support current students. This award will be given annually to a second year Police
Foundations student who demonstrates the same qualities that made Rob such an excellent role model – a community supporter, determined
athlete and dedicated volunteer.
We invite you to join us in celebrating Rob’s life and keeping his memory alive by supporting this award. Thank you for considering this request to
honour Rob and thank you for helping us to make a difference for future Conestoga students.
Sincerely,
Dan Ehman, ‘84 LASA , Email: ehman@ontera.net
Grape Vine
Connections - winter 2008
­­

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Connections - winter 2008
Lost Sheep
We’ve Lost Connection with Our Alumni
Help us find our lost alumni! Do you know the whereabouts of any of these lost sheep? Please ask them to contact Alumni Services at 519-748-5220
ext.3463 or update their information online at: http://www.conestogac.on.ca/friendsalumni/add_update.jsp.
Recreation & Leisure
Services
1970 Jane Cruikshank
Linda Diggle
David Huntley
John Jamula
Douglas McFeeters
Trudy Mink
Fred Mogelin
Robert Moran
Judy Schaus
Jeffrey Such
John Taylor
Gary Thackeray
Douglas Thorne
Clifford Turner
Wieberen Van Der Meer
George Van Slyck
Robert Wickman
1971 Joanne Barras
Paul Bendus
Carollynn Cooper
Richard Corneil
John Henry Fraser
Elizabeth Gallen
Garry McLean
William Quennell
Pauline Reaney
Margery Smith
Jeffrey Stout
Willi Wakehut
Elmer Wick
Florence Woods
1972 Jack Andrews
Arthur Hoy
Mary Knox
Jawn Kolohon
James Linton
Philip Morgan
Virginia Ormerod
James Parrott
Donna Robinson
William Rowe
Paul Sandford
Moira Stephenson
Judith Stotesbury
Deborah Thomas
Don Town
Glen Tschirhart
Wendy Walker
1973 Shirley Berner
Susan Ford
Susan Getty
Judy Huether
George Leger
Patricia Linton
Morley Lymburner
Wendy Perkes
Lynn Patrick
Susan Reid
Eugene Rienks
Irene Romanyshyn
John Sheardown
David Sisk
Bonnie Smith
Gail Stewart
Susan Stickland
Henry Van Rijt
David Sisk
Mechanical
Engineering
Technology – Design
and Analysis
1984 Glenn Aicken
Brent Martin
Stirling Stewart
1985 Eric Hartsell
Robert Hurst
1986 Scott Allan
Shawn Bontaine
Christopher Chalmers
Rod Coles
George Etchells
Kevin Kalbfleisch
Wayne Lindsay
David Nancekivell
Graham Smith
Peter Solomon
Tim Spanner
Michael Van Drunen
1987 Craig Ecclestone
Luis Mendes
Michael Pityn
Vic Schmidt
Jeffrey Trask
1988 Joseph Demaiter
Paul Foell
1988 John Beitz
Gregory Humphries
Bernie Liehs
Michael Pearse
Henry Weinhardt
Barbara Wiedersprecher
Scott Weir
1989 Timothy Cushnie
Michael Garside
Terrance Hallick
Brian Kormendy
Mark Learn
Connie MacGregor
Michael Serbanescu
Scott Yourth
Mechanical
Engineering
Technology – Robotics
and Automation
1990 Richard Christiansen
Ivan Rauser
Ian Rood
1994 Bradley Bowers
Andre Mrowka
Rod Pavan
James Steinbach
John Windl
Cameron Witt
1995 Timothy Bretz
Jamie Drover
Bradley Goodyear
Christopher Heer
Michael McFadden
1996 Daniel Bell
Bradley Bettridge
Trinh Dao
Stan Eagles
Kenneth Ringler
1997 Stephen Hauri
Dave Kiernan
Michael Snider
Adrian Tudor
Chris Vergeer
1998 Tony Antoniou
David Barker
Stephen Browser
Saverio Cinelli
Benjamin Fox
Marco Gomez
Derek MacNeil
Jeffrey Rivard
Robert Todorovich
1999 Jeffrey Brown
Antony Fenske
Shawn Hay
Laura Medeiros
Cameron Naismith
Kenneth Pollender
Kevin Stubbe
Paramedic
2001 Robin Barrie
Kevan Chesney
Michael Martin
Rebecca McCowan
Tina McDonald
Ann Stephenson
2002 Dawn Bacon
Jean Bambury
Kevin Collins
Paula Greathead
Andrew Lee
Graham Little
Andrew Newell
Kristin West
Judith Wolfe
2003 Jean Beaudrie
Irene Comley
William Green
Barry Matcheski
Andrea Parsons
Julie Savoie
Stephen Walker
Brad Wright
2004 Kenneth Goad
2005 Bradley Campbell
Katherine Jean Gibbons
Brennan Kincaid
Cayley Ludwig
Michelle Novar
Microcomputer
Administration
1997 Leonard Burns
1999 Amy Steele
Carey McGinnis
Crista Lee Talbot
Monika Ogrodowczyk
2000 Carrie Roelofsen
Joline Malleck
Czeslawa Laskowski
Rosena Bass
Sherry Kanhoye
2001 Anna Zarvanjski
Sarah Catherine Gray
Joanne Gonczar
Sherida Yusuf
Lourdes Rasanayagam

Daniel Harrison
Monica Matjasec
2002 Rahim Bhatia
Marian Peralta
Amanda Joudrie
Maria Rivera
Sarah Hilker
John Moser
Sharif Aidaruse
Karen Jolly
Amy Massey
2003 Jon Burkett
Keeping Your Address
Updated Pays Off
Congratulations to Lisa Bechtold, a 2002 General Business
graduate. Lisa recently updated her address information
with us and was the lucky recipient of two tickets to the
Toronto Maple Leafs.
Keeping your address up-to-date with the Alumni Services
Department can pay off. In addition to having your name
entered for a prize draw, you will remain informed of
upcoming events, special discounts and affinity packages
that provide valuable services for you.
2004 Amanda Rietkerk
Graphic Design &
Advertising
1980 Robin Albright
Jim Hoffman
Ted Kowalski
Anna Kritzer
Wally Krysciak
1981 Kathy Clerk
Christopher Corke
Gwen Gascho
Blaine Gaouette
Roger Gremo
Hilrita Hoekstra
Steven Kotan
Monica Liedtke
Joseph McGuinness
Brenda Mackenzie
Cindy Mark
Carmela Mason
Darlene Miller
Rosemary Pagnan
Jennifer Totzke
Gayle Westman
Sharon Zaniewski
1982 Julia Archer
Keith Batey
Barbara Baugart
Melissa Beechley
Peter Bradford
Kenneth Clements
Julie Falu
Paul Foster
Marion Held
Kimberley Higgins
Diane Hook
Kelly Howden
Richard Jurevicius
Judith McMillan
Paula McNally
Patti O’Rourke
Brian Price
Stephen Price
Ella Purdon
Heather Robertson
1983 Brian Dolinski
Sherri Drew
Sharon Erhardt
Laurel Howald
Doris Kress
Jan McNeil
Nancy Nevala
Laura Schmiedendorf
Carol Simpson
Gerhild Unny
Wendy Zettle
1984 Meena Boyal
Raymonde Brown
Lost Sheep
Lina Carpino
Joanne Deserres-Brett
Karen Koroll
Lucie Mancini
Shelley McGuire
Peter Psutka
1985 Corinne Boudreau
William Bowman
Susan Cockburn
Dee Elliott
Melanie Fearon
Christopher Ford
Klaudia Halma
Jodi Kipp
Rosemary Laidlaw
Cindy McDonald
Renee Panek
Helga Wallner
Robin Weber
Business –
Management Studies
1990 Lori Drannen
Laura Frank
Judi Goldsworthy
Angela Hehn
Lynda Johnson
Diana Koraca
Tammy Martyniuk
Sheila McMann
Brent Morrow
Jim Renwick
Brad Stevens
Mike Taylor
Charles Westrik
Joanne Williamson
1991 Lorne Ashcroft
Desmond Bartley
Gregory Bauman
Kelly Hahn
Cynthia Jones
Stephen Kingswell
Laurie MacLeod
A Picture Says a Thousand Words
We love to receive your pictures with
Grapevine and Reunion updates. When
sending, if you can provide electronic jpeg
files of 300 dpi, it will allow us to feature
your news in the best light.
Thanks for keeping us informed of your
successes and reunions.
Send your Grapevine and Reunion updates
to Joanne Buchholzer at: jbuchholzer@conestogac.on.ca.
Judith Pratt
Brian Sauer
Brian Schnarr
Sharon Speer
Elaine Tillott
Karen Webster
Rhonda Wiggins
Dan Williams
Lorri Williams
1992 Marianne Erhardt
Patricia Ferris
Rebecca Hackett
Patricia Hallahan
Scott Hardwick
Linda Logan
James McMillen
Michelle Neely
George Vieiros
Rossella Yavuz
Katherine Zigby
David Zuber
1993 Gina Baseggio
Maurean Clough
Karen Codling
Sharon Codling
Daniel Gagnon
Sabina Horne
Robert Janzen
Christine Lobsinger
Guy Peters
Kelly Roehrig
Jeff Redfern
Tome Rosa
Petra Schulz
Leona Terpstra
David Trenholm
Jacqui Van Luxemborg
Kham Vongnhay
David Vrebosch
Glen Wade
Carol White
Michael Winegarden
Lino Zamprogna
Connections - winter 2008
­­

­
Connections - winter 2008
Lost Sheep
Help Us Stay Up-To-Date
Name Program Year Graduated
Name while attending College Extracurricular Activity i.e. varsity team, student government
Address Apt. No. City
Province Postal Code Telephone No.
Getting married? New job promotion? Special message for a former classmate/teacher?
Let us know what you would like us to share in Connections. Why not send a photo too?
Employer Name: Position Held:
Employer Address: City
Postal Code Telephone No. E-mail Address
I hereby authorize the release of information contained herein or collected from a third party (such as a family member) to the aforementioned. r YES r N0
Signature Date
As a member of the Alumni Association, we want to be sure that you are receiving your copy of Connections. Please help us to keep your records accurate and up-to-date. Complete
the information if your status has changed, and mail, drop off or fax to:
Alumni Services Department, Conestoga College
299 Doon Valley Drive, Kitchener, Ontario, N2G 4M4
Fax: 519 748-3532
I am willing to have my name and phone number given to fellow alumni for the purpose of class reunions, class directories and alumni events. r YES r NO
Please indicate any of the information you do not wish printed in alumni publications.
The personal information obtained on this form is used for administrative, fundraising, and statistical purposes of the Development and Alumni Services Offices, the College and/or
ministries and agencies of the governments of Ontario and Canada. This information is collected under the authority of the Ministry of Colleges and Universities Act, R.S.O. 1990, c.M. 19
and R.R.O. 1990, Regulation 770.
Questions about the collection of this information should be directed to the Alumni Services Department, Conestoga College, 299 Doon Valley Drive, Kitchener, Ontario, N2G 4M4.
Telephone 519-748-5220, ext. 3459.
Membership Has Its Benefits
Ten reasons to keep your address information up-to-date with the Alumni Services Department Office:
Class Reunions
Free Resumé Critique
Access password to Job Postings
Home, Auto and Travel Insurance through
Johnson Insurance Inc.
Discount tickets to theme parks and special
events
Free Connections Alumni magazine
Access to the Learning Resource Centre
Reduced membership rates at the Conestoga
Recreation Centre
MBNA - Canada Bank MasterCard
Rewarding Volunteer Opportunities
Welcome Home Award

Reunions
Alumni Services
Front Row(L-R) - Edwin Terry, Dave Harrison, Carol Milmine, Rob Shepard, Steve Young Middle
Row - Jon Crosman, Paul Stoutenburg, Scott Heal, Doug Moyle, Sandy Paterson, Paul Harding
Back Row - Pat Cosgrove, Sean Kirby, Marty Rusk, Don Witt, Brian Crispin, BRT Instructors (retired
Larry McIntyre, Jim St. Marie and Bob Currie)
Broadcasting Radio and
Television ’77 – a Magical
Moment in Time
So why, 30 years later, does a group of former
Broadcasting Radio & Television students
keep coming back? Why do they fly in from
California, British Columbia, New Brunswick,
and Fergus to trek out to Conestoga College
one more time? Why? ... in one word – magic.
Yes, this isn’t just any old reunion – a one-time
blast from the past to talk over good times.
This is a magical bond of diverse personalities
that defies gravity and the golden rules of Gary
Parkhill (former BRT program director). This
is the Class of ’77 – the class that pushed poor
old Gare to the limit and kept Larry, Jim, Ken,
and Bob on their collective toes. You see it just
wasn’t a group of individuals they had to deal
with. This was a class like no other in the history
of the College.
From the first day they met, they knew that
they were surrounded by a special mix of
classmates. Some were young and had never
been away from home before while others
were already married with children. Each had
something special to offer - from the writers to
the performers to the techies to the crew – and
all had a genuine love for every facet of the
broadcasting industry.
They pushed every rule to the limit, they found
new ways to do old things, and created magic
with everything they touched. Through it all,
they played hard and worked harder. Like the
wine commercial that had so many takes that
the “talent” couldn’t remember their names
let alone the script or the radio play that they
produced down to every detail even though it
would never count in their final marks.
Now, 30 years later, they still tease each other
and rattle off one-liners that fall together like a
carefully crafted script. They know who’s going
to say what and when but that’s half the fun.
They smile, they laugh, and they bask in the
presence of each other. Every second is precious
while they’re together. They all know it. It’s
part of the magic and the reason why they keep
coming together every 5 years. It’s a tribute to
that magical time they shared so many years ago
and the extended “family” that has continued to
stand the test of time.
Class of 1977 Nursing
– Stratford Division
The 1977 Class of Conestoga College, Stratford
Nursing Division met October 21/07 at the
Arden Park Hotel in Stratford for their 30th
reunion. Nineteen of 49 graduates attended. It
was great fun to see everyone – fond memories
of days past. Parties, boyfriends, spouses, a
fire, phone calls, curfews, bed races and so
much more. Updates on the present – kids,
grand kids and jobs. We left thinking we
haven’t changed too much and look forward to
seeing each other again in 2012.
Class of 1977 Nursing-Green
Street Division - 30th Reunion
The Conestoga College “Green Street Division”
held their 30th Nursing Reunion from Oct. 12
to 14, 2007 at Oakwood Resort and Conference
Centre in Grand Bend, Ontario on Lake Huron.
Thirty-nine classmates gathered to meet old
friends and reminisce over photos of former
nursing school days, graduation and previous
reunions. The weekend started with a social
gathering where we got caught up with each
other on family life, working life and our social
life. Saturday, we enjoyed the pool, hot tubs,
spa, golfing and hiking. Saturday evening a
dinner was held with guest speaker Sylvia Scott,
also a classmate. Sylvia shared and did a power
point presentation about her mission outreach
“Caring Partners Global”. A new committee was
formed to plan the 35th reunion and we are
also looking forward to meeting annually for a
potluck lunch.
Lost Sheep contact the Alumni Services office to
keep in touch!
Jane (McCullough) Armstrong Janice Dennis
Diana (Lockie) Bright Teresita Collantes
Linda (Smith) Driedger Karen Fisher
Heather LeGras Linda Jagges
Kathryn (Schmalz) McGoey Ann Querin
Shirley (Grummett) Moore Lynn Ross
Andrea (Armour) Nephin Maureen Sproule
Mavis (Stephnson) Roth Laurel White
Hilary (Frangekaki) Watts
Class of 1982 Nursing -
Stratford
The Stratford Nursing Division Class of ’82 held
their 25 Year Reunion in Stratford on October
13th and 14th. The class met on the steps
of City Hall, where 27 years earlier they were
initiated into the Nursing Program. Reunion
attendees came from as far as Whitehorse,
Yukon and St. Albert, Alberta. The 22 graduates
that were able to join in the weekend of
activities enjoyed a dinner at the River Garden
Inn, tour of the nursing residence and Stratford
General Hospital, Stratford Festival warehouse
tour, and finally taking in a play at the Avon
Theatre. The class would like to thank Mary
Moore, Sue Read, Judy Tremblay and Margie
McGreevy for joining us and sharing in our
reunion. It was great to see our teachers and
share our own nursing experiences to date.
Looking forward to another reunion in 5 years;
there are two lost sheep from the fold - Janet
(Caie) LaForme and Ruth (Dale) Knight. Please
contact Alumni Services at the College.
Connections - winter 2008
­­

­
Reunions continued
Recreation Leadership Reunion
for the classes of `74, `75 & `76
Smaller group, rain but the friendships
are still strong
This year on August 12/07 the Recreation
Leadership Reunion was a bit smaller but the
friendships and networking were still strong.
Even though it rained on the day of the annual
reunion at Sage’s Campground the core group
of grads still got together for some recreation
and the shared meal together. The rain however
didn’t hold back the following grads and their
family members: Judy (Bannon) Buck, Toby
Goodwin, Sharon (Richardson) O’Sullivan, Brian
& Cathy Wilson, Gerry Currie, Ron & Terrie Sage,
Eleanor & Brian Millie and Jane & Ed Curtis.
Upon arrival the covered picnic shelter at
Sage’s was the perfect place to put out snacks
and learn a new card game compliments of Ed
Curtis. Sequence filled the time until the rain
cleared and then Brian Wilson fired up the
barbecue for some hamburgers and sausages
along with the delectable salads, desserts and
appetizers provided by those attending.
This year the conversation turned to retirement
as we are getting to that age.
Jane Curtis put together a binder of emails
from those who could not attend including:
Bob Ballantyne teacher extraordinaire, Class
of 74 : Sue Weldon Graham, Class of 75: Fran
Catton, Danny Faler & Sue (Sahagian) Foxton ,
Class of 76: Dave & Mary Reeves.
A special highlight of the day was a cd put
together by Brian Wilson including photos
from past reunions with a musical background
enjoyed by all. Of course the day would not
be complete without recreation in the form of
Koob a fun game also provided by Brian.
A fun day was had by all those who kept
on truckin… in spite of the rain. Photos
compliments of Ed Curtis.
For those who could not attend mark this date
on your calendar now!!! August 10, 2008. If
you are on the mailing list you will hear from
Judy (Bannon) Buck who is organizing the
event for 2008. Special thanks to Ron & Terrie
Sage for their hospitality.
Connections - winter 2008
Alumni Services
Class of 1987 Nursing
The 20th Reunion was held September 29, 2007
at the River Garden Inn in Stratford. Nineteen
classmates enjoyed an afternoon of catching
up with old friends, looking at pictures and
reminiscing about days at Conestoga College.
Lost Sheep from the Class of 1987
Janet Barr John Oosterink
Partick Boyle Gerri Breman
Janice Devries Joy Deweerd
Kimberly Fraser Debbie Heise
Brenda Johnstone Andrea Karn
Carrie Morton Susan Sheppard
Margo Turnbull Wynnie Vanmaanen
Patricia Wraith
Upcoming Reunion
Class of ‘78 Nursing Reunion:
Green St. and Queen’s Blvd.
Saturday May 31 and Sunday June 1, 2008
30 Years. WOW! How can that be, we don’t
look a day over 29! We are planning our 30
year reunion for the spring of 2008. We are
looking for everyone’s contact information:
name, address, phone number and especially
your email address so that everyone will
get an invitation. Please email your contact
information and that of any other grads that
you may know to: gemslie@uwaterloo.ca
Looking forward to a great celebration! Gerti
(Weinhardt) Emslie and Deb (Holst) Hendel
Lost Sheep – Please contact Alumni Services!
Ella Zieske Sharon Kaczmarek
Delores Van Oordt Janet Schumm
Christine Matijew Karen Long
Monica Karge Shirley Murray
Deborah Webster Ruth McPhail
Nancy O’Handley Beryl Badwal
Diane Riddell Robyn Liddle
Christine O’Donnell Patricia Lockley
Elizabeth Aultman Sandra Marks
Brenda Graydon Karen Robb
Irmgard Reimer Mary Ann Shuh
Janis Nelson Cinda Davey
Beatrice Langan Pat Wagler
Mary Van Heugten Ellen Schoenfeld
Swadesh Dang Joan Doehn
Lizabeth Summers Mary Zurbrigg
Edith MacDougall Lorna Zubrickas
Sherry Neil Cynthia Moorb
Meet Joanne Buchholzer, our Alumni Services
Assistant. Joanne is your contact for reunion
support. She can be contacted via email at:
jbuchholzer@conestogac.on.ca or by telephone
at 519-748-5220, ext. 3463.
Planning a Reunion?
We Can Help!
Alumni Services would be happy to assist you
with your class reunion. We offer a variety of
services for reunions. Please call us at
519-748-5220 ext 3463 or complete
the online form www.conestogac.on.ca/
friendsalumni/reunionform.pdf and Alumni
Services will take care of the details
requested. Our fax number is 519-748-3532.
✔ assistance with planning your reunion
✔ class lists & grad tracking
✔ print & mail your invitations free
✔ advertise your reunion in Connections
and on the website
✔ we will act as contact for RSVP
information
✔ door prizes & handouts
✔ publish your article & pictures in
Connections
✔ we will help arrange location & guest
speakers and campus tours
Plus any other details that would make your
reunion the event of the year.

Passionate, motivating and inspirational. All
of these adjectives describe Norma McDonald-
Ewing, a professor in the Recreation and
Leisure Services program. To learn from
Norma is a privilege that many students have
enjoyed.
Norma was recently selected by the province
of Ontario for a new Leadership in Faculty
Teaching (LIFT) award. The first year for these
awards, they are established to recognize 100
of the best faculty teaching in Ontario’s colleges
and universities. The criteria for this award are
based on faculty “who influence, motivate and
inspire students and demonstrate leadership in
teaching methods for the diverse student body
in Ontario.” Each recipient receives $20,000
for resources, curriculum and professional
development.
Nominees are reviewed on a number of specific
factors that include:
• ability to stimulate creative and critical
thinking in their students;
• demonstrated care for student learning;
• enthusiasm and innovation in teaching;
• ability to motivate students to exceed their
own expectations;
• foster the development of students’
intellectual growth;
• mentoring and demonstrating care for the
well-being of students and colleagues which
contributes to a positive college environment
These criteria are the epitomy of Norma. When
asked what she finds the most rewarding aspect
of her role, she replies, “I love when a light
bulb goes on. I love seeing the growth. We’re
privileged to meet them (students) in first year
and move with them through learning and
growth over two years.”
“These people have chosen to be here
and because it is about choice, it is an
eager and committed environment.”
It is this day-to-day energy that she thrives
on. Norma compares the classroom to a
community and one where peer learning
and support help the relationships build and
develop between the learners and instructors,
indeed into lifelong relationships. She adds,
“These people have chosen to be here and
because it is about choice, it is an eager and
committed environment.”
I asked Norma who inspired her to teach. She
credits some of the excellent teachers along
Faculty Profile
The Spark that Ignites True Learning
By Mary Wright *
Norma (r) assists one of her students
Sandra Cheeseman
with some very influential community leaders
from whom she learned. Norma also credits
the philosophy and her personal experiences of
learning from immediate and extended family
members. As she describes, “We can learn
in many ways – formal education is one way.
Daily situations and relationships is another.”
She was introduced to the college environment
in 1995 as a part-time instructor in the
continuing education program and as a
contract instructor in the Recreation and
Leisure Services program. The experience
in training opportunities and playing an
educational role for different groups built her
desire to do more. When facilitating a variety
of training sessions over the years, Norma often
received feedback from colleagues who would
say, “You should be teaching.”
When asked what led her to Conestoga, Norma
responded, “Conestoga was a specific choice.”
Prior to being at the college, Norma worked for
many years at the City of Kitchener in a variety
of capacities including Program Supervision
for winter rinks, neighbourhood associations,
and special events. While she was at the City of
Kitchener, Norma continually heard, read and
saw positive things about Conestoga College.
She liked the program’s format and gained
familiarity with it as a field placement supervisor.
This exposure influenced her decision to pursue
an opportunity with Conestoga.
One of her main inspirations is her colleague,
Greg Burns, Program Co-ordinator for the
Recreation and Leisure Services program. “I
loved his passion and energy. They were key
in my decision to teach full-time.”
In fact, it was Greg, along with Wayne Morris,
Chair, Community Services and Marlene
Raasok Associate Vice-President, School of
Health Sciences, Community Services and
Biotechnology who nominated Norma for the
LIFT award. Greg’s nomination letter clearly
states his respect and admiration for his
colleague. “It has been a joy for me to work
with someone who is so passionate about the
potential of each and every student; a person
whose energy and enthusiasm is contagious
and motivational; and an incredible role
model for young people entering the field of
recreation and leisure services.”
“We can learn in many ways – formal
education is one way. Daily situations
and relationships is another.”
This theme is echoed by Norma’s students
past and present, many of whom supported
her nomination for this award. The consistent
message is Norma’s care, compassion and
celebration of the individual student. As one
graduate summarized, “She is a leader in
education, she is someone who stimulates her
students, she shows innovation at every turn
and fosters relationships that motivate students
to exceed their own expectations.” It is no
surprise that this approach has contributed to
the Recreation and Leisure Services program
being ranked as the number one Recreation
program in Ontario in 2006 through the
provincial Key Performance Indicators.
Today, our students are privileged to learn
from and with Norma. As one of Norma’s
students, you will know immediately
her interest in your success by the clear
expectations she shares. While expecting her
students to give their best to themselves and
each other, she reciprocates with a pledge of
interest, support and professionalism in her
interactions with them as their professor. It
is very easy to see why the light bulbs go on
in Norma’s class. They are ignited by her
enthusiasm, genuine interest and care in
the personal and professional growth of her
students.
Connections - winter 2008
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As appeared in The Record November 02, 2007
Tara Ostic will be among the first graduates ever
to receive a bachelor's degree from Conestoga
College when she graduates tomorrow.
The ceremony, at the Holiday Inn in Kitchener,
marks a kind of coming-of-age for the 40year-old
College. It's the first time Conestoga is
granting its own bachelor's degrees.
Though nursing students in a joint Conestoga-
McMaster University program already receive
bachelor's degrees, those are conferred by
McMaster.
"This is exciting and it's an important
development," said John Tibbits, president of
Conestoga College Institute of Technology and
Advanced Learning. "Industry is looking for
a higher level of skilled person. We're very
committed to educating the whole workforce."
Ostic, 23, is one of 52 students in two four-year
programs graduating tomorrow. Classes ended
in August.
Ostic and 24 other students will receive a
bachelor of applied technology in architecture
-- Project and Facility Management. Twentyseven
students will get a bachelor of
applied technology in integrated advanced
manufacturing technologies.
For Ostic, the last four years, particularly this
year, have been busy. In July, she and her fiancé
bought a house in Fergus. In September, they
married. Then, she started her new job as a
project manager/contract administrator at
Robertson Simmons Architects Inc. in Kitchener.
Often, she's the only woman on the
construction site as she works with architects,
clients and contractors to track the project's
progress. "You're definitely the connection
between everyone."
Connections - winter 2008
Campus Update
Conestoga College Confers First Degrees
by Barbara Aggerholm, Record Staff
Tara Ostic, is one of 52 graduates ever to
receive a bachelor's degree from Conestoga.
Ostic uses the same skills on site as she used
as class representative. Every year, students
voted her as the person best-suited to make
their case when they had difficulties or wanted
changes to the fledgling program.
"The program had a lot of growing pains, as
any new program would," Ostic said.
But Ostic said she appreciated the small class
size, the hands-on, project-based learning and
the co-op nature of the program, which got
students into the workplace.
The degree programs grew after students with
certain diplomas and academic standing were
allowed to go directly into third year after a
"bridging" program, she said. "It worked well
and we learned from each other."
Ostic advises future students to research the
programs they want before deciding whether to
go to college or university.
People don't know so much about degree
programs at college, she said. Sometimes they
think they're less challenging than university
programs.
They're wrong, Ostic said. "You get a degree,
and your education is at the same level." But
it's a different education.
"There's interest in the college atmosphere. It
is more applied as opposed to theoretical."
The programs retain their students, and there's
high employment after they graduate, said Julia
Biedermann, chair of Conestoga's engineering
and information technology.
Last year, a Conestoga architecture student won
college-level, provincial and national co-op
student of the year, she said.
In 2002, Conestoga became one of the first
Ontario colleges to win provincial approval to
grant applied degrees.
The college now offers five applied degree
programs, not including the joint nursing
degree, and hopes to add five or six more by
2009, Tibbits said.
However, ramping up applied degree programs
is not the college's "primary growth thrust.
"We're growing very rapidly also in
apprenticeship," Tibbits said. Conestoga is
now the third-largest apprenticeship college in
Ontario, he said.
Conestoga is also adding "foundations"
programs, which help people increase skills that
allow them to move into the programs they want.
"You need a system that's seamless in the sense
you have a second chance to get onto the
ladder and move up."
Conestoga Students Pull Together for Dany
Dany Mercado
Dany Mercado is a Mechanical Engineering
Technology - Robotics and Automation student.
Dany has acute leukemia and it is rapidly
progressing. The best proposal is for Dany to
proceed with a mismatch bone marrow transplant in
Detroit Michigan. This is his only chance! The cost of
this transplant is $200,000
Conestoga students rose to the occasion and held
a massive blitz which raised $18,500 the day of the
event and more donations were arriving by the hour.
You can support Dany by visiting www.helpdany.com.
Pull, Pull, Pull, Pull, Pull, Pull, Pull, Pull

Campus Update
$100,000 Will Promote Links in Health Care
by Luisa D'amato, Record Staff Photo: Robert Wilson, Record Staff
TD Bank deputy chair and former New
Brunswick premier Frank McKenna presented
a $100,000 donation yesterday to Conestoga.
(l-r) Adam Livingston & Levi Hesch, family
friends, volunteered -- they are also grads!
Conestoga College will hold an annual
seminar for health care faculty and
professionals on how to improve their work
by communicating more effectively with one
another, thanks to a $100,000 gift from TD
Bank Financial Group.
The cheque was hand-delivered to the Doon
campus yesterday by former New Brunswick
premier Frank McKenna, deputy chair of the
bank.
"In 10 years as Premier of New Brunswick
I never had any money to spend," joked
McKenna, who led the province from 1987
to 1997.
"Now, all of a sudden, the bank has got
buckets full of it. I'm giving it away all the
time!” McKenna recalled how, when he was
in politics, he'd get frustrated with what he
called "silo" thinking in health care. He was
referring to persistent lack of communication
between different groups of health care
professionals, which sometimes got in the way
of the patients' needs. With this gift, that kind
of thinking can start changing.
The money will be invested and part of the
income from it will be spent on an annual
local seminar starting this winter, featuring
professors from Sheffield Hallam University
in England. They will discuss their practices
on how medical professionals communicate
about each patient.
“Sheffield Hallam is considered a leading
institution in this field in England”, said John
Richards, chair of continuing education in
health science at Conestoga.
The focus on interprofessional
communication will also be emphasized in
everyday classes at Conestoga, which has
1,400 full-time health care students, state-
of-the-art facilities and expects to expand
considerably over the next five years.
Students Raise 18,500 in Morning Blitz
The winning team first-year firefighting
pre-service students raised $500
Conestoga Centre is hoping to establish a
Centre for Interprofessional Learning for
Health Care on its Doon campus by 2011 to
foster more of these positive communication
techniques.
Meanwhile, part of the TD Bank gift will also
be used for student bursaries. Conestoga
president John Tibbits said it is difficult
for healthcare students to make ends
meet, because they don't get paid in co-op
programs as some other students do. These
bursaries will "help ensure our people have
the finances to carry them through," he said.
Student Lesley Rogers agreed. The 28-yearold,
who already has a kinesiology degree,
is studying respiratory therapy at Conestoga.
She commutes from Toronto to the college
each day and also holds down a part-time job
in addition to her studies. The commute is
necessary because she can live rent-free with
her family in Toronto.
Bursaries and scholarships are important
for people like her, she said.” It allows us to
focus on our studies.
Staff at the Pioneer Park Plaza (Kitchener)
Branch proudly display the donation cheque.
Danys father, Luis Mercado looks on
Connections - winter 2008
­­

­
When it comes to renovations, nobody cares
more or demands a higher level of excellence
than Mike Holmes. He has even established a
foundation to promote quality in the skilled
trades and to aid individuals victimized by
unscrupulous contractors.
Conestoga College is dedicated to excellence
in teaching trade skills. So, Conestoga and The
Holmes Foundation have joined forces, with the
assistance of local contractors and suppliers, to
carry out much-needed renovations at three not-
Connections - winter 2008
Campus Update
Conestoga, Holmes Foundation
Carry Out Community Service Projects
by John Sawicki *
Governments and employers are giving more
attention to the important economic role
and the many opportunities apprenticeship
education offers to young Ontarians.
Conestoga College for many years has been one
of the province’s largest and most forwardlooking
sites for college-based apprenticeship
programs. Starting this winter, the College will
offer two pre-apprenticeship programs which
will give participants insight and experience
with regard to skilled trades careers and
a head start on achieving apprenticeship
certification.
These tuition-free programs are funded by the
Government of Ontario.
One program will be at Conestoga’s Guelph
campus, the other at the Waterloo campus.
Truck and Coach Technician is the Guelph
program. It runs full-time, daytime for
23 weeks at the campus and features
for-profit agencies in Cambridge, Ontario.
Mike Holmes visited and toured the project
sites on November 5 - National Skilled Trades
Day - and stated his hope that the Conestoga
initiative could serve as a model for other,
similar initiatives involving The Holmes
Foundation across Canada.
This first-time effort involved second-year
students from Conestoga’s Renovation
Technician program, which is based at its
Waterloo campus. Student project teams
an additional eight-week practical work
placement experience. Students gain skills
in communications, computer literacy, safety
procedures, welding, basic electricity and
various motive power systems (brakes, fluid
power, electrical, fuel, drive trains). Those who
successfully complete this program can go on
to a truck and coach apprenticeship, or further
technical education. In addition, they meet the
requirements for completion of Level I of incollege
apprenticeship training.
The Waterloo program is General Carpenter,
which features 27 weeks of study at the
campus, plus an eight-week practical work
placement. As is the case with Truck and
Coach Technician, the program includes
requirements for Level I apprenticeship
training. Participating students gain skills
in communications, computer literacy,
safety procedures, welding, basic electricity,
heating/ventilating/air conditioning, interior
worked under the supervision of faculty
leaders as well as members of the Renovation
Technician Program Advisory Committee, a
volunteer group of renovation practitioners that
advises Conestoga on workplace and career
issues related to the instruction and eventual
employment of these students. The Foundation
worked with local contractors and suppliers
to provide the necessary materials for the
projects.
Each project involved meeting an identified
need at each agency. At Lisaard House, a
hospice facility, the initiative was a washroom
for use by guests and visitors, which is not
only a convenience for them, but also an
improvement to the privacy of residents. At the
Cambridge Self-Help Food Bank, the project
entailed renovations to create a large meeting
room/training room with accompanying office
space. At Argus Residence for troubled teens,
the Conestoga-Holmes Foundation partnership
resulted in creation of a quiet room/study area
to assist residents with efforts to complete their
schooling.
Renovation Technician is a two-year program
that prepares students for careers in residential
and light commercial construction. It includes
a wide range of skills areas: from carpentry
to project management, from computer-aided
design to building science, and from client
relations to “green” building and renovating.
Tuition-Free Pre-Apprenticeship Programs at Conestoga
finishing and trim, framing, exterior finishes
and structures, rigging and building science.
Graduates can go on to apprenticeship
situations or to other technical education. The
General Carpenter pre-apprenticeship is being
offered in co-operation with Carpenters Union
Local 785.
Contact: Brenda Gilmore: Truck and Coach
Technician, 519-824-9390, ext. 122,
bgilmore@conestogac.on.ca; Tanja Gancevich:
General Carpenter, 519-885-0300, ext. 252.

Campus Update
International Scholarship Honours
for Architecture Degree Students by John Sawicki *
Winners l-r Samantha Jansen, Jonathan Douglas, Amanda Ford
Three students in Conestoga’s degree
program in Architecture - Project and
Facility Management have earned prestigious
scholarships awarded by the International
Facility Management Association (IFMA)
Foundation. The Foundation is affiliated
with the IFMA, the largest and most widely
recognized professional association for facility
management.
Winning students traditionally come from highly
regarded schools such as Columbia, Cornell,
Georgia Tech, California-Berkeley, Pennsylvania,
Texas A&M and Illinois.
The Conestoga winners are:
• Jonathan Douglas of St. Pauls, Ontario,
who has received a $3,000 scholarship
sponsored by the IFMA Philadelphia Chapter.
A 2004 graduate of Stratford’s Northwestern
Secondary School, Douglas is the secondtime
winner of an IFMA scholarship, having
won the Corporate Headquarters Council
honour in 2006, and is currently President of
Conestoga’s IFMA student chapter.
• Amanda Ford of Cambridge has won for
the second consecutive year the $2,000
scholarship sponsored by the IFMA’s Dallas/
Fort Worth Metroplex Chapter. She graduated
from Southwood Secondary School in 2003.
Ford will return to her Conestoga studies in
the winter term, following completion of her
French as a Second Language program at
Algonquin College.
• Samantha Jansen of Cambridge has won
the $3,000 scholarship sponsored by the
Corporate Facilities Council of IFMA. Jensen,
too, won an IFMA scholarship last year, from
the Philadelphia Chapter. She graduated in
2004 from Jacob Hespeler Secondary School.
The scholarships are given based on merit.
Students must be enrolled in a full-time,
Coming Soon
to Doon Campus Two New Exciting
Ontario College Graduate Certificates
Advanced­Police­studies­including­actual­paracticum­placements­with­local­Police­­
Services­and­Advanced­Security­Studies­including­Co-op­placements­with­local­­
Security­Firms
For­more­information­
For­Advanced­Police­Studies­contact­Carolyn­Harrison­at­charrison@conestogac.on.ca­­
For­Advanced­Security­Studies­contact­James­Phillips­at­jphillips@conestogac.on.ca­
four-year baccalaureate program or a
graduate school program associated with
facility management. Academic achievement
is a criterion for selection, as are program
involvement, faculty appraisals and the
student’s resume.
All three Conestoga winners also received an
all expense paid trip to New Orleans, for the
IFMA’s World Workplace Conference at the end
of October.
The IFMA has 18,500 members in 125
chapters and councils in 60 nations. Through
fundraising, the IFMA Foundation promotes
research and educational opportunities
aimed at advancing the facility management
profession.
Conestoga’s Architecture - Project and Facility
Management program leads to a Bachelor
of Applied Technology degree. The four-year
program combines project-based learning at
Conestoga with periods of co-op education in
industry. The emphasis is on the architectural
design, maintenance and management of
the built environment. Students experience a
combination of technical theory and applied
skills, business management knowledge and
skills, and complementary liberal studies
coursework.
Recipients are all smiles after being awarded
IMFA scholarships.
Connections - winter 2008
­­

­
Paula Feddema, Athletics and Recreation
"My favourite memory of the College, is to see
how the Recreation Centre has evolved over the
years. From the opening year in 1980, when
we were the "building up the hill" where few
ventured, to the present day operation, where we
are now attached to the extended main campus.
Students, employees and the community user
groups are taking full advantage of all the
facilities and maximizing the available space,
including updated fitness facilities. The main
gymnasium has become a "classroom" for many
programs requiring fitness components and
classes are scheduled continuously throughout
the day. I am proud to say that we have created
a very positive image within the community to
promote Conestoga College over the years, as
well as providing our students with facilities and
programs to enhance their College experience."
Gary Hallam, Chair Hospitality Programs,
School of Business
"My first year with Conestoga College has been
very exciting at the new Waterloo Campus.
The diversity of the people and programs in
Waterloo makes it fun, interesting and always
welcoming.
Connections - winter 2008
Campus Updates
Conestoga Staff Reminisce
I have seen significant growth in enrolment
as well as continual improvements to
infrastructure and services in just one year. The
addition of more programs, the construction
of the new Masonry Centre and the buzz on
campus ensures a great future."
Stu Hood, Faculty, Trades and Apprenticeships
“As I look back over the decade and a half that
I have been a faculty member at the Guelph
campus, I realize just how far we have come
to make this campus a vibrant, happening
place which offers excellent educational
opportunities. I remember clearly attending an
all-staff meeting in the early “90’s when I had
recently quit my job in industry to join the staff
here. Dr. Tibbits was presenting his “State of
the Union” address and it looked pretty bleak
for the Guelph campus. I sincerely hoped
that I had made the right decision. It is very
rewarding to see that we have turned things
around and this campus is now a very integral
part of Conestoga College.”
Duane Shadd, Faculty, Liberal Studies
“ I have been around Conestoga for many
years. As I look back one area that stands
out in my memory is my affiliation with Geoff
Johnstone and the amazing contribution he
has made to College soccer. I think that Geoff
is the longest serving coach in the Canadian
system and has 30+ years to his credit”
Matt Miller, Faculty, Graphic Design
“One of the funny stories that comes to mind
has recently repeated itself.
Fifteen or so years ago, the Graphic Design
students were doing a mock-up of labels for
a beer company. They had worked long and
hard and their work was impressive. They
carefully placed the mock-ups in a safe place
for the morning’s photo shoot. When I arrived
the next morning I was met with a group of
very upset students—there was no trace of
their projects!
A trip to Security to report stolen property
quickly turned into an interrogation and threats
of removal of night passes for my students. If
they couldn’t refrain from drinking on school
property and leaving the evidence in the
classroom, it was doubtful that they deserved to
be here during the day let alone at night. After
much discussion and reassurances that this
in fact was a bona fide class project with real
customers, the Security Supervisor agreed to
let the students dig into the “evidence” garbage
bags and retrieve their work. Luckily the
damage to the bottles and labels was minimal
and they were able to photograph their work.
Last semester this scene played itself out again,
almost to the tee. Although the players were
different, and the beverage was wine instead
of beer, the rest of the details are eerily the
same. I take this as proof that our students are
continuing to do such high quality work, that
even the pros can be fooled.”

Dianne Murphy: Faculty, Preparatory Studies
“As I look back on my years as a faculty
member at the Cambridge campus, what stands
out the most to me is the tremendous strength,
tenacity and courage of our students. Their
willingness to work hard to achieve their goals
both academically and socially is inspirational.
I have witnessed time and again the success of
our students and the pride that they take in one
another’s achievements.”
Wednesday,­February­ ,­ 00 ­
0:00­am­-­ : 0­pm
RIM­Park
www.partners4employment.ca
Conestoga­College­­University­of­Guelph­­University­of­Waterloo­­Wilfrid­Laurier­University
Campus Update
Charlie Matjanec: Employment Advisor,
Disability Services
“It was a sweltering hot and humid June
afternoon and the gymnasium of the Recreation
Centre was filled to capacity with invited family
and friends eagerly anticipating the start of the
Convocation Ceremony. Across the hall on the
ice surface, dignitaries, faculty and graduates
were all gowned and lined up in neat rows
waiting for John Sawicki to give the signal to
begin the procession. The doors opened, the
band began to play, the audience rose, the
adrenalin was pumping... and then the lights
went out!”
Nancy Nelson: Faculty, Engineering
Technology ITCT Program
“From Doon Notes and the monthly pubs of
the eighties, to the current collaborations
in developing and rolling out the degree
programs, this College has thrived because
of its people. It has been a pleasure working
with those whose energy, enthusiasm, and
commitment to quality education have helped
build Conestoga into the college it is today.”
The Peer Conversation Partner services were created to
respond to the needs of students from other cultures
who would like to improve their English speaking skills.
And now alumni members can become part of the team.
Spend one hour a week:
• Strengthening your communication and
interpersonal skills
• Increasing your awareness of cultural/diversity
issues
• Gaining and increasing your self-confidence
• Developing leadership skills
• Building friendships
• Increasing your social involvement
Contact Brenda Anderson in the Learning Commons
today for more information – phone: 519-748-5220,
ext. 3600 or email: banderson@conestogac.on.ca
Connections - winter 2008
­­

Help plan for the future
by investing in the Annual Fund!
How can I invest in the Annual Fund?
Complete the attached pledge form and return it to the Alumni Services
Department in the Student/Client Services Building, Doon campus. Payment can
be made by cheque, credit card or payroll deduction (Conestoga employees only).
Please return your pledge card to:
Conestoga College Annual Fund
Alumni Services Department
299 Doon Valley Drive
Kitchener, ON N2G 4M4
Charitable Registration Number: 10696 6799 RR0001
If you have questions, please contact Mary Wright at 519-748-5220,
ext. 2356, or email annualfund@conestogac.on.ca.
Cardholder’s ­ Signature __________________________________________
“The hands on experience one gets in a college
environment like Conestoga is priceless. When it is time
to get out into the workforce, you have the confidence
and the tools you need to be successful in your chosen
field. My time at Conestoga College was filled with
great memories of fine and talented people and more
than qualified instructors who guided me into the right
direction in my chosen career.” Angie Hill, Class of 1991
Journalism - Print
Did you know that every year Conestoga graduates more than 3,500 new professionals in the fields of
Technology, Business, Health Sciences, Community Services, Trades and Apprenticeships and Communications?
Conestoga has a tradition of striving for excellence and relevance. Since 1998, we have been rated the overall
#1 public college in Ontario. Giving to the Annual Fund will allow us to continue to respond to the changing
economic environment and provide the educational opportunities our community needs to grow and thrive.
Gifts from alumni, parents, employees and friends, allow Conestoga to develop innovative programs, purchase
state-of-the-art equipment, attract skilled and experienced faculty and staff, and provide students with tools for
success.
Your investment will help us move forward in meeting the needs of the community.
Yes! I want to give
r $50 r $100 r $250 r $500 r $1000 r $2500 Other: _______
Name______________________________________________________________________
Address ____________________________________________________________________
City______________________________ Prov.______ Postal Code_________
Phone _____________________ E-mail _____________________________________
r Cheque (payable to Conestoga College) r Visa r MasterCard r American
Express
r Payroll deduction (Conestoga employees only)
Please deduct this amount from my pay in 12 installments.
Credit Card Expiry Date: Month Year
Credit Card
Number
Cardholder’s
Name
­First Name­ ­ ­­­­­­­­­­Surname
I would like to invest in:
r Highest Priority Needs r Campus Expansions r Learning Resource Centre
r Technology Infrastructure r Degree Programs r Student Awards
r Other __________________________________________________________
Did you graduate from Conestoga? If yes - Year ____________________________
Name at time of Graduation ___________________________________________
Is this a joint gift with your Spouse? r Yes r No
Did your spouse graduate from Conestoga? If yes - Year______________________
Name at time of Graduation ___________________________________________
Recognition of Your Gift
r I would like to be recognized for my investment via the Annual Donor Report, and
would like my name to be listed as
r I prefer to remain anonymous.
The personal information obtained on this form is used for administrative, fundraising, and
statistical purposes by the department of Alumni Services, the College and/or ministries and
agencies of the governments of Ontario and Canada. This information is collected and used under
the authority of the Ontario Colleges of Applied Arts and Technology Act, R.S.O. 2002, and
regulations thereunder.

President’s Message
Susan Milton, President, Alumni Association of
Conestoga College
Welcome alumni to the Winter 2008 edition of
Connections.
As we know, fall is the beginning of a new
school year. With all beginnings the excitement
is keenly felt and the eagerness of what’s to
come is easily seen. The Alumni Association
of Conestoga is no exception to this renewed
excitement and eagerness. We have started our
new year with the recent election of a superb
Alumni News and Views
board of directors and a strategic development
plan in place. We are all very excited about
what’s to come! What is especially thrilling
to see is that the visibility of the association
is increasing within the alumni, student, and
college communities.
As we expand our outreach activities the
question we hear repeatedly is “What exactly
does the Alumni Association do?” Some of the
many ways that the Association gives back to
the college community include full sponsorship
of, or contributions to:
• Welcome Home Awards
• Alumni Association Applied Degree
Scholarship
• Family and Friends Orientation
• Awards Banquets
• Sealed With Alumni Kisses (SWAK) Day
• WinterFest
• Waterloo Campus expansion
• Individual Student endeavours
• Alumni Association Bursary
• Conestoga Golf Classic
• Alumni Varsity Golf Tournament
• Conestoga Annual Fund
Mission Statement
“The­Alumni­Association­of­Conestoga­College­is­a­network­of­volunteers­committed­to­an­active­partnership­among­the­Alumni,­the­Community,­and­the­College­in­order­to­create­a­lifelong­interest­in­the­success­of­the­College.”
Did you know that many of these activities
are for students, alumni, college staff and the
community? All of these services are a product
of joint and cooperative efforts between the
Alumni Association and the Alumni Services
Office.
In addition to these events we also offer you
multiple affinity purchase opportunities. As a
direct result of the services survey you recently
completed we are pleased to present a new line
of clothing for Conestoga alumni! Check it out
at: http://conestoga.bookware3000.ca
As your newly elected President, I am delighted
to be involved in the Association’s expanded
direction. It is an incredible experience
and opportunity to give back to the College
community that has made such an impact on
the lives of so many people, including myself.
The title of this magazine, Connections, so aptly
captures our mandate; to stay connected with
you. For you to stay connected with the Alumni
Association check out our web-site at www.
conestogac.on.ca/friendsalumni/association.jsp
or feel free to send an e-mail to:
alumnipres@conestogac.on.ca.
Susan Milton
Connections - winter 2008
­­

­
Connections - winter 2008
Alumni News and Views
What the Alumni Association Funds Support

Alumni News and Views
Family & Friends Orientation . . . a Huge Success
Coffee and refreshments are served
The Alumni Association of Conestoga is proud
to be one of the main sponsors of the week
long Family & Friends Orientation held in
August. The Alumni Association was pleased to
sponsor the coffee and refreshments at the five
orientation sessions. This event is a perfect fit
with the Association’s Mission Statement which
is “…a network of volunteers committed
to an active partnership among the Alumni,
the Community, and the College in order to
create a lifelong interest in the success of the
College.”
Over 800 family members and friends attended
the Orientation Sessions, an increase of three
times the attendance from last year. Over 30
tours were led by college staff and faculty.
During the orientation sessions, there were 21
booths consisting of 12 College Services, the
Bookstore, the Alumni Association, Residence
and nine community organization that had
displays in the Student Life Centre.
The feedback was very positive from Family &
Friends who attended the various orientation
activities. Here are some highlights of their
comments:
• Thank you to everyone involved. This event
helped to decrease some of the anxiety
experienced at this very busy time.
• I would encourage all parents to attend
these sessions in the future. Thank you very
much for the invitation to attend, we really
appreciate the warm welcome from staff
The tour starts with a walk through the woods.
• It was a nice experience for both my
husband and I. It gave us a thorough guide
of what our daughter’s school year was
going to be about. It was good to learn that
Conestoga has good solid resources to get
the students to complete their programs with
the resources available to them. I’m glad I
attended!
• Family & Friends Orientation was very well
organized. Every question was answered to
my satisfaction, Great speakers, thanks for
all the signs to direct to parking lot etc.
While the Family & Friends were attending
their specially designed Orientation Sessions,
2,685 students attended 14 separate program
orientations across the three campuses. There
were 70 program sessions run by faculty in
certificate, diploma, applied degree, and post
graduate programs at Doon, Waterloo and
Guelph Campuses; many sessions included
panels of senior students and/or alumni.
Excellent feedback was received from the
students with 92% of students who completed
the orientation survey ranking their orientation
experience good to excellent
In addition, 35 student orientation leaders
welcomed and directed students, conducted
classroom icebreakers, and facilitated mixers.
The CSI served cotton candy, popcorn, and
donuts as well as provided some fun mixer
entertainment.
then on to the Recreation Centre.
Applied Degree Scholarship Recipients 2007
Sebastian Urban, Architecture - Project and Facility
Management receives his scholarship
from Mary Wright
Jessica Bailey, Integrated Advanced Manufacturing
Technologies receives her scholarship
from Mary Wright
Connections - winter 2008
­ 9
­ 9

­ 0
It was a night to remember, both the past and
the present.
A record 38 Welcome Home Awards were
given out to first-year students at the Annual
General Meeting of the Alumni Association on
November 5th.
This is only the fifth year that the Alumni
Association has handed out the Welcome Home
Awards, which are given to deserving students
who have a parent or guardian who graduated
from Conestoga.
Two award winners actually had both parents
graduate from the college.
Rob Krause, who graduated in Computer
Programming back in 1986, said he hardly
even recognized the school when he arrived.
“I walked into the school and saw a Tim
Connections - winter 2008
Alumni News and Views
Alumni General Meeting Attracts
Old Faces and New Friends By Aaron O’Connell **
First-year student Rick Krause, along with his dad Rob, stands with Alumni Association President
Susan Milton after receiving a Welcome Home Award on Nov. 5th.
Horton’s and a Coyote Jack’s which was never
here when I was at Conestoga,” he said. “The
school is definitely a lot bigger than it was.”
Rob was there with his son Rick, a first-year
architecture student, who said his dad was a
big influence on him and his choice to come to
Conestoga. “I knew it was a good school and it
was one of my top choices, but having my dad
as a past grad made the decision a lot easier,”
said Rick.
Although not everyone receiving an award
could make it, the night was still a success as
the meeting brought one of the largest turnouts
ever. Monica Himmelman, Alumni Relations
and Annual Fund Officer, said it’s just the start
of things to come. “Alumni Services now is just
going to take off, it’s going to be so great.”
In other business, three members of the
Alumni Board are leaving after this year
including Himmelman who is one of the
Alumni founders.
She said it was a tough choice to leave but felt
it was her time to go.
“I turned 60 last March,” Himmelman said
with a laugh. “And I actually thought that once
I got to that point I would probably retire.”
Himmelman waited until everything was
organized in her department before revealing
that she would be moving on. “There were
so many things that were going on in our
department and I thought if I go there will be
nobody.” Himmelman said, “They hired Mary
(Wright) as Manager which was wonderful
because she was the one who hired me nine
years ago. So I guess what goes around comes
around.”
Other members leaving after this year include
Linda Taylor and Norm Bertrand.
Bertrand, who has been on the board for many
years, said he would never forget Conestoga
and it would always have a place in his heart.
“I’ve heard this saying before but, Conestoga to
me, is like a river and whether I’m coming or
going, it will still be here,” he said.
In other business, President John Tibbits
spoke about some key factors that will change
Conestoga in the future. The main factor was
the growth of the College this year and the
sustainable growth we should see in years
to come. “This year we grew by 17 per cent
in first-year students and we should see a
sustainable growth by 10 to 15 per cent for the
next five years.”
The Alumni Association of Conestoga
Welcome Home Award
In­order­to­be­eligible:
•­you­must­be­enrolled­in­the­first­year­of­a­certificate,­diploma­or­degree­program
•­at­least­one­parent­must­be­an­Alumnus­of­Conestoga­
Awards­will­be­distributed­at­the­Association’s­Annual­General­Meeting­in­November.
For­more­information,­contact­Mary­Wright­atmwright@conestogac.on.ca.
9- - 0,­ext.­ ­or­email­­
Application­forms­are­available­at:­www.conestogac.on.ca/friendsalumni/association.jsp

Alumni News and Views
3rd Annual
Conestoga Alumni Athletic Golf Tournament
The­Alumni­Association­of­Conestoga:­Gold­Sponsors­of­therd­Annual­Conestoga­Alumni­Athletic­Golf­Tournament.­
The­event­raised­over­$ ,000­for­Athletic­Bursaries.
Katie Holtz the 2006 recipient of the
Conestoga Alumni Association Applied Degree
scholarship, proudly displays her degree
following the November 3rd Convocation at the
Kitchener Holiday Inn.
l-r Diane Rodgers (Mother), Brad Rodgers
(Father), Kathleen Holtz, David Rodgers
(brother), Jonathon Holtz (husband). Katie's
brother and mother are also Conestoga
graduates.
Connections - winter 2008
­­

­
Annual Alumni
Winterfest
Connections - winter 2008
Alumni News and Views
Sunday, February 4
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Conestoga Rec Centre
• Free Skating 1-2 pm
• Games for the Kids
• Prizes
RSVP 519-748-5220, ext. 3463 or
alumni@conestogac.on.ca
Don’t forget the Alumni Indoor Soccer
Tournament: February 2 & 3
8:00 am - 8:00 pm, Conestoga Rec Centre
Ski
Chicopee
Four Hour Lift
Ticket $21
for tickets call
Alumni Services
Tickets are available in the Alumni Services Department located
at the Doon campus, Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
You can mail us your order with cheque, payable to the Alumni
Association of Conestoga to: Conestoga Alumni Tickets 299 Doon
Valley Dr, Kitchener ON N2G 4M4
For ticket information contact
Joanne Buchholzer at 519-748-5220, ext. 3463
Payment of cash & cheque only
www.conestogac.on.ca
Dates to Remember
New­Student­Orientation­.............................. Jan.­
Alumni­Varsity­Soccer­Tournament­............... ­Feb.­ ­&­
Alumni­Association­Annual­Winterfest­.......... ­Feb.­
Job­Fair­....................................................... ­Feb.­
SWAK­(Sealed­With­Alumni­Kisses)­Day........ ­Feb.­
ECE­Conference­........................................... ­Mar.­ ­&­ 9
Conestoga­Classic­Golf­Tournament­............. ­May­
Summer­Convocation­.................................. June­ ­&­ 9
For­more­information,­please­check­our­website­or­call­the­
Alumni­Office­at­ 9- - 0­ext.­
Ontario Science Centre
Combo­Ticket­
Science­Centre­&­Omnimax­Film
Child­ - ­yrs­ $ ­
Youth­ - ­yrs­ $ ­
Adult­ - ­yrs­ $
Conestoga­College­Golf­Classic
Wednesday,­May­ ,­ 00
Registration­information­will­be­available­online­at­www.playtheclassic.com­in­March­
00 .
For­information­about­this­event­andsponsorship­opportunities,­please­contact­­Julie­Gillis­in­the­Development­Office­at:jgillis@conestogac.on.ca

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