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Annual Report 2011–12

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Message from the Chair and President

With the renewal of our strategic and academic plans underway, this has been a year firmly focused on the future. With the participation of students, faculty and staff across our campuses, we’re building on our strong tradition of excellence and innovation in teaching and learning as we prepare our students for success in a rapidly changing modern world.

This year’s Annual Report provides an opportunity to pause and reflect on our progress over the past year and to celebrate the many accomplishments vlogns have achieved. From the Oscars to OCAA championship titles, we’re proud that members of vlog’s community were recognized as leaders in their fields and rewarded for their excellence. Once again, we were recognized as one of the GTA’s top employers and Canada’s best diversity employers.

Our continued enrolment growth and the importance of vlog’s presence as the only postsecondary institution in York Region were recognized by the provincial government’s announcement of a $43-million contribution to revitalize and expand our King Campus. This investment will result in space for an additional 1,450 students in our community safety, health and social services programs. We’re also partnering with the York Regional Police on a joint state-of-the-art training facility that will be located onsite at King.

Our global networks continue to expand. We had more international students enrolled at vlog than ever before and we were honoured to open the first Confucius Institute in the GTA at our Markham Campus. We focused on reconnecting with our alumni in new ways, engaging our graduates in our programs and activities to share their experiences and success with our current students. Working with new and existing donors, we established several new awards and bursaries and substantially grew our endowment fund.

We want to thank our committed faculty and staff who inspire our students and keep us closely linked to our communities and employers. Without our industry partners, we wouldn’t be able to provide the enriched learning experiences students get through co-op and field placements and applied research projects.

Finally, we want to thank our students. They contribute each day to making vlog an exciting place to be. Coming from next door and from around the world, they bring an irreplaceable energy and an incredible diversity to each of our campuses. Our students are the reason we strive to provide high quality teaching and learning experiences, and a comprehensive range of student supports. Looking back or to the future, there can be no doubt that our focus on student success is what underpins a great vlog education.

Delivering high-quality programs

Initiatives for 2011-12 Performance indicators/measurable outcomes Projected Status Update as of March 31, 2012
Centre for Academic Excellence (CAE) fully operational and resourced under AVP Academic. CAE operational plan established and website launched. Achieved: Website and operational plan completed.
Round 1 Innovation Projects reports and presentations complete; plan developed for broader implementation of promising practices. Achieved: All Round 1 project reports submitted and outcomes presented.

In Progress: Implementation plan for key projects underway.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
Round 2 Innovation Project call launched for 2011-12. Achieved: Call launched in June 2011.
Faculty Development program reviewed and updated, including module development and hybrid delivery options. Achieved: Review and updates to specific courses completed.

In Progress: Further development expected as part of 2012-17 Academic Plan.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
Continue to Leverage Web-based Program Review tools and expertise to build an effective and accelerated Program Review cycle. Program review process streamlined; new tracking system developed and Dashboard operational by fall 2011.

Achieved: Pilot for annual program report cards completed in December 2011. Teams for new reviews now following an updated process; reference group established.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
Rescheduled: Creation of an online system pending further analysis and refinements.
Renew degrees with Postsecondary Education Assessment Board. Self-study report submitted for HST, IAF,IFS, FSM and ESR on schedule for renewal. Self-study process initiated for MCP, CST, FPR ad BSD in preparation for 2013 renewal. Achieved: Self-study reports completed on schedule as appropriate (HST, IAF, IFS, FSM).

In Progress: Self-study process underway for FPR and BSD.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
FPR degree accreditation process completed for Aviation Accreditation Board International by February 2012. Achieved: Accreditation process completed on schedule.
Enhance programs through student and faculty outreach events, industry and community partnerships funded through Quality Enhancement funds. Two new outreach/quality initiatives organized in each Faculty. Achieved: Central funding provided for innovation projects, including the Language Across the Curriculum Initiative, Self-Directed Learning Initiative, Senetech Initiative and vlog Live Building.
Develop plans to move the School of Aviation and Flight Technology with the announced closure of Buttonville Airport within five years. Business case for the move developed and approved with a site for the School secured.

In Progress: Potential sites evaluated and development of new facility and transition plans underway.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13

Strengthening academic clusters of expertise and enhancing their profile to potential applicants and other external stakeholders including employers

Initiatives for 2011-12 Performance indicators/measurable outcomes Projected Status Update as of March 31, 2012
Develop a New Academic Plan. New Academic Plan developed in consultation with faculties, program advisory committees, and other stakeholders, approved by the Academic Planning Committee of the Board (Dec./Jan. 2012).

In Progress: Consultations completed; 2012-17 Academic Plan on track for approval by the Board of Governors.

Spring 2012
Development and approval of a multi-year Academic IT Plan. Achieved.
Implementation of new academic structure announced in March 2011, which builds upon the academic planning framework and strengthens vlog’s leadership in core sectors/program clusters. New Chair/Dean portfolios and transition process complete; new portfolios and Faculty/School “identities” to be operationalized. Achieved.
Suite of diploma/degree/graduate certificate programs approved and operational in School of Aviation and Flight Technology. Achieved: Aviation Operations diploma and Aviation Safety advanced diploma approved and operationalized.

In Progress: Airline Pilot Flight Operations Graduate Certificate in external approvals process.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
Accelerate development of degree programs and graduate certificate through increased resource allocation. MarCom degree proposal review underway.

In Progress: Degree proposal in preparation.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies review completed and implementation plan developed.

In Progress: Site visit completed and PEQAB review completed. Pending MTCU approval.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
Two additional degree program areas identified and development initiated. Achieved: Two new degree areas identified with program development underway.
Two new Bachelor of Commerce degrees—Business Management and International Business Management—on schedule for first cohort in fall 2012. Achieved: Approval received in January 2012. First intakes scheduled for September 2012.
At least three new graduate certificate programs developed and approved.

In Progress. Five new graduate certificate programs in development.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13

Targeting applied research activity in degree programs and pedagogy

Initiatives for 2011-12 Performance indicators/measurable outcomes Projected Status Update as of March 31, 2012
Enhance vlog’s Research Capacity to continue to support the College’s leadership position in federal and provincial applied research. New Dean of Research appointed July 2011 to lead the establishment of a Research Advisory Committee development and development of a vlog Strategic Research Plan and organization structure created to support priorities. Achieved: New Dean of Applied Research and Scholarship appointed in July 2011. New organizational structure for the Office of Research and Innovation in place as of February 2012. Terms of reference for new advisory committee established.
In Progress: Development of Strategic Plan for Applied Research & Scholarship underway.
Leverage federal funding priorities in support of installing an industrial research chair, developing SME-partnered projects in communications technologies research and exploring joint college-university commercialization projects. Achieved: Three OCE Connections Projects with industry contributions approved for funding. Six workshops for SMEs held.

In Progress: Application submitted to NSERC Industrial Research Chairs for Colleges program.

NSERC to announce results in April 2012.

Collaborative applied research projects being explored/under formation with researchers from York and Ryerson University.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
Support and promote vlog’s leadership in pedagogical research through training. vlog’s research portfolio strengthened with completion of the Early Leavers Study, which ascertain the factors behind students leaving college before graduation.

In Progress: Report submitted and under review by HEQCO. vlog internal draft report made available for peer review.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
The College Mathematics Project 2011/12 will be broadened to include a qualitative analysis of foundations programs, preparatory mathematics courses; with final report filed.

In Progress: Final report submitted to MTCU reference group for review.

Spring 2012
College English Project – vlog report completed; provincial funding sought to take the study province wide. Achieved: vlog report completed and funding proposal for joint Math and Language study submitted to the Ministry of Education and MTCU.
A minimum of two proposals in scholarship of teaching and learning developed. Achieved: Transfer research project studying college to degree student movement approved by CUCC. Project approved by HEQCO to develop database and analyze student movement between York University and vlog College.
Final report for Higher Education Quality Council of Ontario (HEQCO)-funded College Choice Project completed and submitted.

In Progress: Project focus narrowed; final report in development.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13

Better understand factors affecting Student Graduation and Satisfaction KPI’S and develop new initiatives

Initiatives for 2011-12 Performance indicators/measurable outcomes Projected Status Update as of March 31, 2012
Increase understanding of factors regarding students leaving vlog prior to graduation. Database developed, leveraging transfer and student data to increase understanding about factors, intentions and destinations of transfer students.

In Progress: Database development is a key component of CUCC-approved transfer research project.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
Phase one of the KPI Dashboard Analytics tool completed, with design incorporating best practices from across Ontario’s postsecondary institutions.

In Progress: KPI Dashboard Analytics data requirements and analytical framework/routine completed. Operationalization in progress.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
Incorporate findings and high-level recommendations from the vlog-led study on early leavers to guide both retention strategies and the development of phase one of the Student Retention Tracking System.

In Progress: Use of STARFISH software being piloted at King campus.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
Identify key drivers of satisfaction at the College, faculty, school and program levels. Baseline established identifying the number of university to college students at vlog to assist in advisement about transfer opportunities.

In Progress: Significant work completed on extracting data to create baseline. Report in development.

May 2012

Implementing new student support strategies

Initiatives for 2011-12 Performance indicators/measurable outcomes Projected Status Update as of March 31, 2012
Provide increased advisement and support services to students to assist in academic achievement, and strengthen interpersonal, leadership and communications skills. Development of a new centre to deliver “first stop shopping” for students with multiple student services relocated at Newnham, clustered in renovated space—operational for fall 2012. On Track: New centre at Newnham slated to open Spring 2012.
Expansion and integration of SMILE program with other mentoring programs within Student Services.

Rescheduled: Program integration pending development of broader plan for Student Services.

2012-13 academic year
Realignment of learning centres within the portfolio of the Associate Vice-President Academic, Educational Excellence and strengthened connection to faculties. Achieved
Integrated Advisement Centre pilot project for at-risk students, including internationally trained immigrants, first generation, Aboriginal, direct, and non-direct applicants implemented and evaluated. Under Review: Pilot pending development of broader plan for Student Services.
A First Generation pilot case management and advisement program developed scalable to support college-wide retention strategies.

In Progress: Pilot underway at King Campus.

Spring 2012
Enhanced tutoring and learning support interventions conducted through the learning and writing centres to increase successful completion of EAC 150.

In Progress: Activities in the Learning Centre refocused to provide enhanced support for writing and mathematics.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
Strengthen student support through bursaries and scholarships. vlog’s endowment and investment policies and practices reviewed to ensure sustainability and predictability of student support.

In Progress: Proposed investment and disbursement policies developed and scheduled for presentation to the Board of Governors.

Summer 2012

Expanding laddering opportunities within existing programs and increasing pathways to Ontario universities and colleges

Initiatives for 2011-12 Performance indicators/measurable outcomes Projected Status Update as of March 31, 2012
Expand partnerships with GTA universities. vlog-York partnership enhanced to increase bilateral pathways to degrees and post-graduate certificates. Ongoing.
Relationships strengthened with other GTA colleges and universities to enhance student mobility and credit transfer. Achieved: Credit transfer funding used to discuss further transfer opportunities with OCADU, University of Toronto Scarborough and Ryerson University.
Develop more Pathway/Transfer solutions between Ontario colleges and universities. System leadership at the MTCU Credit Transfer Steering Committee continued; ongoing participation on technical/funding working groups. Achieved.
Proposal submitted and MTCU funding approved for degree transfer activities. Achieved: Proposal submitted October 2011; MTCU approval December 2011.
CUCC Phase III Project (Arts & Science electives) advanced with vlog participation and a minimum of five Liberal Arts courses identified as core university transfer subjects and made available to vlog and other college students. Ongoing: vlog is the provincial lead on this initiative.
System leadership through CCVPA pathways project continued. Achieved.
Academic partnerships portfolio established to provide oversight of SCWI, college to college, and college to university academic partnerships. Achieved.
Offer more opportunities through part-time studies for students to complete a degree on a part-time basis. Subjects from three vlog degree programs offered part-time in class and/or online. Achieved: Seven Liberal Studies Option courses made available online.
Review prior year’s activity levels and success in SCWI/Dual Credit programs. Dual Credit review completed and target schools/programs identified as appropriate. Achieved: Dual Credit review completed and program expanded to include School-in-a-College initiative at vlog.
Expand credit transfer to vlog’s degrees. Two Fast Track to vlog degree events held and other strategies undertaken to increase the number of diploma students entering vlog degree programs. Achieved: Diploma to degree events held at three campuses and new diploma to degree promotion strategy under development. Funding proposals submitted to CUCC and internal transfer system for degree programs established.

Implementing new student recruitment activities

Initiatives for 2011-12 Performance indicators/measurable outcomes Projected Status Update as of March 31, 2012
Facilitate effective student self-service and improved college interaction through more effective online registration services. New admission orientation model implemented, which combines testing with program-specific assessment piloted. Achieved: Model implemented for Fall 2012 applications in selected programs in FCAD.
Redevelop the applicant portal to facilitate timely and effective communications and registration for potential students. Registration facilitated by online applicant portal, effectively using College resources and enhancing the registration of potential students; benchmarks established.

In Progress: Resources redirected to web development; implementation ongoing.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
Develop new brand articulation, based on research and implement marketing/advertising recruitment campaign to reach prospective students and stakeholders. The number of first choice applications as monitored through the Ontario College Applications System increased in key programs. Achieved: First choice applications up in key programs areas.
Brand perceptions and ad recall improved. Achieved: Focused marketing campaign promoting degrees, post graduate certificates and degree transfer opportunities implemented.
Strengthen vlog’s online presence based on web audit, brand research and strategic goals. Usage and quantity of online services increased. Achieved: Usage increased and online services expanded.

Expanding reciprocal partnerships with international PSE institutions

Initiatives for 2011-12 Performance indicators/measurable outcomes Projected Status Update as of March 31, 2012
Align International Department structure/support with academic and strategic priorities. A new operational plan developed and implemented under the leadership of the new Dean of International Studies to strengthen international recruitment and better integrate international activities to the Academic mandate. Achieved: Alignment completed in February 2011.
A new pilot training program for international faculty developed and implemented.

In Progress: First two modules developed and set for piloting in collaboration with the Centre for Academic Excellence.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
Raise International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score for diploma students to 6.0. New IELTS scores with phased-in process and implementation date of September 2012.

On Track: Initiative implemented in conjunction with International Admissions.

Fall 2012
Develop infrastructure to support work/study abroad, including promotion of Ontario International Education Opportunity Scholarship (OIEOS) to assist students. Increased number of student accessing the OIEOS funds; new work/study abroad office established and promoted. Achieved: New website promoting work/study abroad programs launched and campaign to launch study abroad initiative underway.
Continue diversification of international recruitment by geographic region. Expanded strategic alliances pursued in India, and recruitment efforts increased in diversified markets.

In Progress: New partnership agreements currently under development.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
Partnerships developed overseas to explore potential of an international vlog campus. Ongoing.

Embedding quality standards and outcomes in all programs, services and business practices

Initiatives for 2011-12 Performance indicators/measurable outcomes Projected Status Update as of March 31, 2012
Prepare for the Program Quality Assurance Process Audit by the Ontario College Quality Assurance System (scheduled for June 2011). Audit complete; implementation of recommendations underway. Achieved: 18 month progress report due in 2013.
Investigate appropriate Quality Assurance bodies for additional program accreditation processes. Report produced that identifies potential additional appropriate accreditation bodies for vlog’s academic programs and academic services.

In Progress: Report under development.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
Establish Dean of Students portfolio and, in consultation with Academic and other College partners, develop an organizational plan for the delivery of effective services and programs within that portfolio. Development and implementation of an operational and organizational plan within the Dean of Students Portfolio. Under Review: Operational and organizational plans pending outcomes of departmental reviews.
Review and optimize student services and support processes with best practices through the development of a self-study framework.

In Progress: Self-study framework in development. Individual areas/programs reviewing current practices and alignment with professional standards.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
Review of student and staff resolution services by the Dean of Students—in conjunction with Executive Director of HR with academic input—to implement revised policies, practices and standards of operations in fall 2011.

Rescheduled: Review Committee established with student, faculty and staff representation. Review in progress, with revised organizational model and operating procedures to be implemented.

September 2012
Implementation of student-centered counselling and disabilities and health centre models.

On Track: New operating model ready for implementation.

September 2012
Review and improve core services for students, staff and faculty. Enhanced functionality for student and employee cards achieved.

On Track: OneCard multi-year plan underway. Capacity for online transactions to be tested in Summer 2012. Campus shuttle buses to be equipped with card readers in April 2012.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
A centralized event booking framework and process for the College’s facilities established.

Under Review: Pending decisions around the scope of the I3 project.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
Financial processes reviewed and improved to facilitate streamlined student fee payments.

In Progress: New online full- time tuition payment application approved and slated for launch.

Spring 2012
Intercampus shuttle bus service reviewed to assess feasibility of increasing ridership and expanding current routes. Achieved: Ridership reviews initiated at the end of each semester.
Improve IT Services support and capability. Restructured ITS organization established under new CIO and new operational plan developed.

In Progress: Operational plan developed and organizational review underway.

Spring 2012
New telephone system implemented. Achieved: Implemented in Fall 2011.
New e-mail system implemented. Achieved: Implemented in January 2012.
Network printing system rolled out. Achieved: Implemented in Fall 2011.
Policies on Records Management, IT Disaster Recovery, and Business Continuity established.

In Progress: New policies under final review.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
Review vlog’s Human Resources processes and practices. Under the leadership of the new Executive Director, Human Resources, a new HR operational and organizational plan created, including leadership development activities.

On Track: Several new HR operational and structural plans under review. These include: building and realigning HR capacity; reengineering policies and processes; revising HR metrics; enhancing communications including Intranet site; and HRIS planning.

By December 2012
Through consultations with college stakeholders, current recruitment processes revised. Achieved: Standardization of applicant process complete. Competition status tracking and screening occurring through implementation of Hire Desk software.
Follow through on next steps from the Employee Engagement Survey. Complete department-level meetings to discuss results with all employees. Achieved: Meetings held with all departments to review survey findings specific to each area.
Strengthen capacity of vlog’s Advancement and Alumni function. Establishment of capital funding priorities based on outcomes of the master planning initiatives: Capital case for support developed, project-based prospecting activities initiated.

On Track: Support case for the King Campus campaign in development. Funding priorities under review.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
Review and redevelopment of Advancement policies, including naming guidelines, gift acceptance and donor agreements.

In Progress: Policy review underway. New templates for donor agreements drafted.

Summer 2012
Review endowment strategy and performance to ensure optimal income/payout rates are secured.

In Progress: Investment review initiated.

June/July 2012
Alumni strategic plan approved by the Alumni Association and College administration; completion of at least ten strategic alumni-oriented events (institutional and division-based). Achieved: Alumni strategic plan approved. Over 30 events held with total of 1000 alumni in attendance.
Review and update the College’s Emergency Response Plan. Updated Emergency Response Plan developed and rolled out College-wide.

In Progress: Work being completed on establishing general emergency plan and several specific procedures. Emergency teams identified at each campus; emergency plan training being developed for roll-out.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
Facilitate improvements to classroom and faculty space. Space inventory established to facilitate improvements to space planning and utilization. On Track: Compiled drawing inventory and working with external consultant to respond to MTCU initiative to standardize and categorize space standards across the college system.

Supporting professional development and workforce planning for faculty

Initiatives for 2011-12 Performance indicators/measurable outcomes Projected Status Update as of March 31, 2012
Analysis of current faculty professional development programs and requirements. E-learning survey and analysis of faculty completed; results to inform proposed PD program for e-learning and mobile learning.

In Progress: Ongoing analysis of current faculty development programs. Blackboard minimum requirements established. E-learning plan to be embedded in the 2012-17 Academic Plan.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
Develop academic resource planning support tools and guidelines to assist chairs and deans in faculty workforce planning. Faculty utilization model reviewed and upgraded; support tools and guidelines distributed and operationalized; training opportunities provided to chairs.

In Progress: SWF calculator developed and distributed. Demonstrations made to Program Chairs, Finance and HR personnel.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13

Fostering and leveraging partnership activities to benefit students and the College

Initiatives for 2011-12 Performance indicators/measurable outcomes Projected Status Update as of March 31, 2012
Develop partnerships with external associations and accrediting bodies to deliver professional development programs that meet their needs. At least one new partnership established with courses developed specifically for the partnering organizations. Rescheduled: Related initiatives will be connected to 2012-17 Academic Plan.
Report submitted to senior executive for approval, outlining a future partnership strategy implementation.
Continued work on the Applied Research Commercialization Initiative funded through FedDev Ontario; SMEs, students and faculty will work on a variety of relevant industry projects. Experiential learning for 50-60 students, updated relevant-industry knowledge for 12-16 faculty, and 16 completed projects. Achieved: Fifteen Faculty and 35 students engaged on 16 projects.
Continued involvement with Institute for Municipal Excellence Advisory Committee. Development of an electronic information database (Municipal Data Centre) of relevant municipal trends/facts/ developments.

In Progress: Electronic information database under development.

September 2012
Identification and funding of a minimum of two applied research projects in the area of Municipal operations/administration.

In Progress: Two projects identified; funding options under exploration.

September 2012
Development of internal expertise in municipal matters and a pool of external experts as potential faculty/guest lecturers. Ongoing.
Engage external stakeholders in infrastructure development. Advance initiative to establish a joint training facility with York Region Police/Municipal Fire Services at King Campus.

In Progress: Discussions exploring nature of potential partnership and training needs underway.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13

Strengthening vlog’s Planning and Organizational Foundation

Initiatives for 2011-12 Performance indicators/measurable outcomes Projected Status Update as of March 31, 2012
Campus Master planning activities for the King, Markham and Newnham campuses. Master planning and programming initiatives complete and final report approved by the Board of Governors. Achieved: Master Plans for Newnham, Markham and King campuses approved by the Board of Governors in January 2012.
Enhance vlog facilities for students, faculty and staff members. The 160,000-square-foot Knowledge Infrastructure Project building completed at Newnham Campus for the fall 2011 semester. Achieved: Building opened on schedule in September 2011.
A review of Eaton Hall conducted for possible future uses.

In Progress: Review underway.

September 2012
Student space enhanced at all four main campuses with improved student lounge seating and additional student collaboration spaces where possible. Achieved: New KIP building and levels 3 and 4 of Building A at Newnham furnished with furniture to enhance student lounge seating and collaboration opportunities.

In Progress: Upgrade of student lounge seating underway at King, Markham and vlog@York.

Spring 2012
In collaboration with the vlog Student Federation, refurbish the Senecentre student building. Achieved: Newly renovated Senecentre opened in January 2012. Modernized facilities, including upgraded food services, now available for student use.
Sports Build plan further developed relative to the findings of the College master planning initiative.

In Progress: Student Life Build plan and reviews for proposed Sports Center builds at Newnham, King and vlog@York all underway.

Spring 2012
Development of a new Strategic Plan. Following broad consultation with internal and external stakeholders and thorough research, a new Strategic Plan developed and approved by the Board of Governors. On Track: Extensive consultation conducted, including nine townhalls held across campuses and an online survey that resulted in over 450 responses. 2012-17 Strategic Plan to go to the Board of Governors for approval in June 2012.
Moving towards Integrated Planning. vlog’s business, capital and operating, and human resource planning integrated into the same calendar cycle, with strong links to the academic and strategic plans.

In Progress: Integrated planning calendar created. Calendar to be further refined to incorporate human resource planning.

Ongoing into Fiscal 2012-13
Comprehensive review of IT Systems and Business Practices with the aim of acquiring an enterprise system with integrated Financial, Student, and Human Resource Information Systems. Cross-college steering committee consultations completed and integrated information system project defined. Achieved: Steering committee consultations completed and Request for Proposal for new enterprise system issued in March 2012.

A year in review: Accomplishments of innovation, engagement and academic success

April 1, 2011 to March 31, 2012
During the past year, vlog has had many successes. Following are some of the highlights:

Groundwork for a stronger future

vlog College celebrates official opening of the Newnham Campus Expansion

vlog’s newest building opened for classes on September 6th at the Newnham Campus. Designed for energy efficiency and environmental sustainability, the 160,600 square foot LEED Gold building houses new classrooms, faculty spaces and an auditorium that can be converted into multiple teaching spaces. We were pleased to have many of our local politicians – and vlog champions – join us for the building’s official opening on November 4th. vlog received $20.7 million from the provincial government and $4 million from the federal government in support for the new building, while the College contributed $32 million to the project.

Newnham Campus Improvements

In addition to the Newnham Campus expansion, several other improvements were made to the Newnham Campus in 2011. Included among them were renovations to the cafeteria, the Senecentre and the Flint and Feather, which has been converted into a new employee lounge area. Landscaping improvements were also made to the campus grounds with extensive greenery added around our new building as well as a new outdoor seating area in the courtyard.

$43 million to revitalize King Campus

In July 2011, the provincial government announced that vlog will receive $43 million to revitalize current buildings and expand community safety and health services training at our King City campus. This expansion will create classroom space for an additional 1,450 students. vlog is also looking to partner with the York Regional Police and local fire services to create a joint emergency services training facility.

Master plans for vlog campuses approved

Working with the national design firm Dialog, vlog developed master plans for buildings, programs and natural environments at select campuses throughout 2011. In January 2012, the Board of Governors approved the master plans for Newnham, Markham and King campuses. This is the first time in the College’s history that master plans were created for any of our campuses. These plans provide a roadmap for vlog’s long-term development in Toronto and York Region.

Strategic and Academic planning

vlog has been undertaking an important planning process that includes the renewal of the College’s strategic and academic plans. With the input of students, faculty and staff, we’re mapping out how we can better support our students and focus on teaching excellence, learning, innovation and applied research. As part of this process, vlog has retained MacPhie&Co. to facilitate research, townhalls and interviews with members of the vlog community and key external individuals. These plans will define our priorities for the next five years and beyond and will be unveiled to the vlog community in Spring 2012.

vlog named again as a great place to work

The College has been recognized as one of Greater Toronto’s top employers for the fourth year in a row. vlog also made the list of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers for a second straight year, being the only college in the country to do so. Our work in diversity and equity and our campus-wide positive space program for students and employees were highlighted by the selection team.

Strengthening our Board of Governors

The Board of Governors welcomed six new members, including Guled Ahmed Abdulahi (student representative), Fariba Anderson, Donna L. Duncan, Naki Osutei, Frank Robbins (faculty representative) and Karen Webb. vlog's Board has 21 members: 16 representing the community; four members elected by administration, faculty, support staff and students respectively; and, the President.

Improving our infrastructure

Major changes were undertaken in 2011 to improve our infrastructure. New Cisco telephone systems were installed across the College, while the employee e-mail system was upgraded for improved security and reliability. Progress also continues on our i3 project – the major cross-College initiative to upgrade our student, finance and human resources information systems over the next few years.

Community outreach

vlog wraps up its most successful United Way campaign

Our students, faculty and staff reached new heights in their support of the United Way’s annual campaigns in Toronto and York Region. Efforts across the College’s campuses resulted in more than $151,000 being raised – $65,000 more than was donated last year. For its fundraising efforts, the United Way awarded vlog with the Quantum Leap Spirit Award, while our students received the Spirit Award for the Top Student Fundraising Team. President David Agnew sat on the United Way Toronto’s 2011 Campaign Cabinet as Chair of the Universities & Colleges sector.

vlog-led forum puts spotlight on math

vlog’s Markham Campus hosted the College Mathematics Project Provincial Forum on October 28th. More than 100 Ontario educators from elementary/secondary schools and the college community came together to discuss how to achieve greater student success in college mathematics. The College Mathematics Project is a vlog-led initiative that was started in 2004 through the York-vlog Institute for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education. It is a collaborative program of research and deliberation focused on the mathematics achievement of first-year college students in Ontario.

1,800 Toronto high school students take over vlog's Faculty of Business

vlog hosted more than 1,800 Toronto high school students who took part in the Demonstrating Excellence Celebrating Achievement (DECA) Toronto Regional Competition on November 6th. DECA is an innovative extra-curricular program for secondary school students in Ontario. It creates professional partnerships and experiential learning opportunities for students in the business community.

Markham Campus hosts Arts Exposed conference

vlog’s Markham Campus hosted the first ever York Region Arts & Culture Conference on April 1st and 2nd. It brought together stakeholders from the public, private and nonprofit sectors to examine and discuss arts and culture related issues and to create strategies to promote and develop capacity for local cultural tourism. The conference's inaugural theme ‘Arts Exposed’ was chosen to celebrate, recognize and appreciate York Region’s known and lesser known cultural treasures.

vlog marks International Indian Film Academy Awards with drive-in film screening

On June 10th, the Markham Campus was converted into a drive-in theatre to celebrate the International Indian Film Academy Awards. vlog partnered with the Town of Markham to present the Bollywood comedy film, “3 Idiots”, on screens placed throughout the campus parking lot. The International Indian Film Academy promotes Indian Cinema globally and selected Toronto as the site for its 2011 awards ceremony; the first ever location for the awards outside of India.

Canada-Wide Science Fair at Newnham Campus

vlog College proudly hosted the 50th Canada-Wide Science Fair, the highest level science fair competition in Canada, at Newnham Campus from May 14th to 21st. This week-long national competition brought together more than 1,000 participants from across the country to compete for medals, cash awards, scholarships and other prizes worth $1 million.

vlog receives award from the City of Toronto

The City of Toronto's Elections and Registry Services presented an award to vlog for the College’s contribution in promoting the 2010 municipal election. The College was recognized for its strong commitment to engaging potential voters in the electoral process and broadening the knowledge of democracy among young citizens. In Fall 2010, the College partnered with the city in various outreach initiatives as part of the their "Vote" campaign. vlog also participated in the national, non-partisan "Apathy is Boring" initiative to engage and mobilize young voters through the use of art and technology.

vlog College brings together influential thinkers on sustainability and living “green”

On October 27th, vlog hosted the Green Citizen Conference. Filmmakers, authors and experts shared their insights with students and staff and discussed the importance of recognizing our environmental impact and what steps can be taken to minimize it. The event served as the official launch for vlog’s Green Citizen Campaign. As part of this initiative, 250 students received their Green Citizen Card in recognition of their pledge to support environmental awareness in their lives and future careers.

Leading-edge programming

New Programming:

In 2011-2012, vlog’s Board of Governors approved the following programs:

  • Bachelor of Commerce – Business Management
  • Bachelor of Commerce – International Business Management
  • Project Management – Information Technology (GC)
  • Sustainable Local Food (vlog Certificate)

New Continuing Education certificates:

  • Construction Estimator
  • French Language Skills
  • Spanish Language Skills
  • Chinese Language Skills
  • Business Event Planning

vlogns build software for game-changing Raspberry Pi computer

Raspberry Pi, a new computer costing less than $40 was launched in February 2012 featuring software built and adapted with the help of vlog students and faculty. Selling out on its first day on the market, the computer is designed to spur interest in computer science, software development and electronic technology among young people. The vlog-built software allows the new computer to be used for many of the things that desktop PCs are used for, such as spreadsheets, word-processing, games, and playing high-definition video. The software release marked an important milestone in the Centre for Development of Open Technology’s applied research in building open source software for emerging low-energy ARM systems. ARM chips are known for combining a high level of functionality with extremely low power consumption.

Jazz Cadet Program set to launch

Starting in the Fall 2012 semester, third-year students studying in vlog’s Bachelor of Aviation Technology program will be given the opportunity to interview to qualify for The Air Canada Jazz Cadet Program. Successful candidates will become Jazz/vlog cadets in their fourth year and will automatically enter the airline’s hiring pool upon graduation, subject to their maintaining a required standard of achievement in their studies.

‘Popcorn and a movie’ takes on a whole new meaning

In collaboration with Mozilla, creator of the Firefox browser, 15 vlog students and faculty at vlog’s Centre for Development of Open Technology helped develop Popcorn.js – an HTML5 media framework written in JavaScript for filmmakers, web developers, and anyone who wants to create time-based interactive media on the web. vlog’s work on this project was aided by grants from Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council, the Ontario Centres of Excellence and Mozilla.

vlog course brings the experience and insight of seasoned professionals to political staff

vlog offered the first of its kind, multi-partisan training for Ontario political staff in January and February 2012. vlog’sPolitical Staff Essentials Course: By Practitioners for Practitioners included a distinguished roster of guest lecturers from various parts of the political and public service spectrum who shared their experiences and insights with the next generation of political staff. The multi-partisan program was developed by Hershell Ezrin, former Principal Secretary to the Premier and Chief of Staff to the Leader of the Opposition. The curriculum was developed with the help of a panel of advisors with decades of experience in elected and staff roles in government and opposition.

vlog’s Esthetician program receives Excellence in Education Award

vlog’s Esthetician program received the 2011 Excellence in Education Award from Leading Spas of Canada – Canada’s only national spa association. The award is presented each year to an institution or individual for their contribution to the education of the spa profession in Canada. For more than 20 years, vlog has been an industry leader in the education of estheticians. In addition to our Esthetician program, the College now offers Esthetics and Spa Therapies – an advanced three-year diploma that gives students the opportunity to earn the globally recognized designation of a CIDESCO Esthetician.

Partnership Highlights

vlog and University of Toronto partner for student success

vlog College and the University of Toronto (U of T) announced a unique postsecondary partnership on May 26th. The Student Success Partnership Agreement gives eligible students the opportunity to begin their studies at vlog and complete them at U of T earning both a Liberal Arts diploma and Bachelor of Arts degree in four years. In 2008, vlog’s Liberal Arts program and the Faculty of Arts and Science at U of T established a pilot project that paved the way for this partnership agreement. vlog is the only college in Canada to have such an agreement with the University of Toronto.

vlog opens first Confucius Institute in the GTA

The first Confucius Institute in the GTA opened at vlog’s Markham Campus on November 24th as a result of our partnership with Northeast Normal University in Changchun. Established as partnerships between Chinese and local postsecondary institutions, Confucius Institutes promote Chinese language and culture, support Chinese language training and facilitate cultural exchanges. There are now more than 300 Confucius Institutes around the world including nine in Canada.

vlog’s applied research helps Southern Ontario businesses bring ideas to market

vlog partnered with 16 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to help bring products and services from idea to reality. The Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State for the Federal Economic Development Agency of Ontario visited vlog College’s Markham Campus on August 22nd to celebrate these collaborations and learn about the progress of the applied research projects underway. The Applied Research and Commercialization Initiative is a pilot project aimed at addressing the need for research and commercialization in southern Ontario and encouraging collaboration between SMEs and postsecondary institutions. SMEs participating in this initiative benefit from vlog’s expertise in many schools and centres including advanced technologies, financial services, communication arts, computer studies, electronics, computer engineering technology and health sciences. vlog received $750,000 from the federal government to support this pilot.

vlog partners with Department of National Defence

vlog’s School of Aviation and Flight Technology is partnering with Department of National Defence to provide education opportunities for members of the Canadian Forces. Starting in September 2013, qualified air force candidates can apply to vlog’s Bachelor of Aviation Technology program to complete both their degree and military flight training requirements in only four years.

Getting plugged in

More than 200 students and teachers from GTA high schools visited vlog to learn about the programs offered in the School of Information and Communications Technology. Not only did the students learn about our career-related programs, but had their visit featured in itbusiness.ca. The event, which was hosted at the Newnham Campus, was supported by the Information and Communications Technology Council, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to creating a diverse, prepared and highly educated Canadian information and communications technology workforce.

TEDxvlogCollege

On March 29th, vlog Alumni, along with Student Services and the Centre for Academic Excellence, organized the first-everTEDxvlogCollege– a thought-leadership event, hosted at the Newnham Campus. This event featured 17 industry leaders, alumni, faculty and students who spoke on issues relating to technology, education, design and engaged citizenship.

Partnership Highlights

vlogns in Applied Arts Magazine

vlog students Amena Assaily (Independent Digital Photography) and Justin Close (Graphic Design) graced the pages of Applied Arts – Canada's visual communications magazine – for winning Applied Arts Student Awards. The students' work appeared in the magazine’s special awards issue and one of Amena’s photos was also selected for the front cover. The 2011 Applied Arts Student Awards are one of the industry's most prestigious recognitions of creative excellence.

vlogns help with Easter Seals telethon

vlog students and staff from two different schools helped raise funds for children with physical disabilities as part of the 2011 Easter Seals Telethon, which aired on CBC Television. Dena Chiarcossi and Yvonne Choachuy from the School of Media and Marketing's Broadcast Journalism program acted as associate producers for the show's simultaneous webcast at easterseals.org. The Telethon also featured mini-documentary stories produced by the school's Summer Institute for Broadcast Journalism. If that weren’t impressive enough, graduates and current students from the School of Information and Communications Technology re-designed and produced the computer generated count-down clock that appeared on monitors in the set. Their newly designed system is now being used by Easter Seals Telethons across the province.

vlog students win HR case competition

Four students from vlog’s Business Administration – Human Resources Management program won The Great Canadian HR - Business Student Case Study Competition on April 2nd. vlog’s team of Laura Aitken, Ursula Carey, Deborah Giblin and Lydia McIntosh defeated George Brown and Centennial College to win this annual event, which was held at the Toronto Board of Trade. During the course of the competition, the students were tested on their ability to analyze and present a solution to a business case study. For winning, the vlog team received the $4,000 grand prize and a $1,000 scholarship on behalf of the College. They also won the People’s Choice Award, which is voted on by the conference delegates and earned each member of the team an iPad.

vlog student leaders recognized

The annual Student Federation Recognition event was held in the Senecentre on April 7th. More than 20 Student Leadership Awards were presented including the 2011 W.T. Newnham Award, which went to Aviation degree student Alex Johnston. Other winners included: Samir Abdi, Newnham Council Programming Co-ordinator (Outstanding Contribution Award); Ahmad Ali, vlog@York Council, Clubs and Associations Co-ordinator (Certificate of Achievement); Sharon Ou, Markham Council Assistant (Certificate of Achievement) and Peter Kataswa, King Council President (Alumni Jacket Recipient).

Students ‘Redefine Design’ at annual fashion show

vlog’s graduating class from the School of Fashion showed their year-end collection of designs at the College’s annualRedefining Designgala on April 13th at The Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre. The runway portion of the show included garments inspired by several countries including India, Hungary, China as well as Native American culture. The event also featured the makeup artistry of Cosmetic Techniques and Management students, creations by Floral Design students and displays by Visual Merchandising Arts students.

vlog students win best project honours from Ontario Centres of Excellence

Electronics & Computer Engineering Technologist – Communications Program students Wen Li, Ye Chi and Louel Abastillas won best project honours from the Ontario Centres of Excellence (OCE) Connections program for their work with BOOM Studio. During the winter semester, the students worked with the Toronto-based recording studio to design, build and install a touch-screen PC-controlled video switcher which enables musicians in any studio to view video camera feeds from any other location, including a multi-viewer 4-in-1 option. The students received $3,500 from OCE and dollar-for-dollar matching from Boom Studio to work on this project.

vlog wins at technology skills competition

Students from vlog’s Centre for Advanced Technologies took home three medals from the Ontario Technological Skills Competition (OTSC) – the largest skilled trades competition in Canada. This marks the third consecutive year that vlog has medaled at this competition, with one of our students winning gold and two taking home silvers. vlog’s 2011 medalists were: Andrew Coulas, Gold (Mechanical Techniques – CNC Programming) – Computer Aided Manufacturing category; Melad Yousif, Silver (Mechanical Techniques – CNC Programming) – Computer Aided Manufacturing category and Fadi Patros, Silver (Mechanical Engineering Technology – Industrial Design) – Mechanical Computer Assisted Design and Drafting category.

vlog student wins province-wide design contest

Second-year Independent Illustration student Weimar Lee was the winner of the Ontario Library Association Super Conference Design Competition. Students and recent graduates at postsecondary institutions across the province took part in this contest. Weimar’s winning designs earned her $1,500 and will be used as the “visual identity” at the Ontario Library Association Super Conference – Canada’s largest library conference. Her work will be featured on programs, signage, the Super Conference web site, brochures, t-shirts, mugs, pins and much more.

vlog Cup winners

President David Agnew presented the 2011 vlog Cup, the College's most prestigious student award, to Stephanie Grunhut and Alex Johnston. Stephanie, a Recreation and Leisure Services graduate, maintained a 3.9 GPA and served as President of the King Campus Recreation Council and vlog Athletic Association, while Alex – a graduate of the Aviation degree Program – has been on the President’s Honour List, and has received several academic and leadership awards including the 2011 W.T. Newnham Award.

vlog Law Clerk graduate wins Governor General’s Academic Medal

Joanne McAndrew was the recipient of the Governor General’s Academic Medal, which is given annually to a student who achieves the highest academic standing in his or her final year of a full-time postsecondary diploma program. The Law Clerk student achieved straight A's and became a permanent fixture on the President’s Honour List. This future law clerk also led the vlog curling team to an Ontario Colleges Athletic Association Gold Medal.

vlog Students win vivaNext Marketing competition

Jenny Chan, Lynne Goodbody and Matthew Mayer won the vivaNext Marketing Strategy Case competition. As part of their marketing strategy class, taught by Professor James Davidson, the students took part in the competition that required teams to submit a comprehensive communications strategy to deliver information, engage the public and promote awareness of the vivaNext project. vivaNext is York Region’s plan for the next generation of rapid transit with dedicated lanes for Viva vehicles to be installed along Highway 7 East by 2014.

From building blocks to building futures

On June 16, the first group of students to graduate from the Bachelor of Child Development program received their degrees. Many of the graduates from the program have gone on to build their credentials further by attending teachers’ college or pursuing graduate level studies. Although the degree was only launched in 2008, the more than 40 students who graduated were able to complete the four year program in just two and a half years thanks to the program’s built-in pathway from vlog’s Early Childhood Education diploma program.

Tathagata Singha wins first-ever Indo-Canada Student Innovation Award

The first-ever Indo-Canada Student Innovation Award was presented to the team who created the five-minute film “Come and See.” The Indo-Canada Student Innovation Award is a unique initiative of the Consulate General of Canada in Mumbai and vlog College in association with Frameboxx Animation & Visual Effects. Student Tathagata Singha led a team of 12 from Pune’s Film and Television Institute of India in the making of the film.

OCAA Hall of Fame adds three vlogns

The Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) welcomed 39 new members into its Hall of Fame in 2011 and among the inductees were three vlogns. Former vlog varsity athlete Gabe Rapini and coaches Frank and Rozika Sulatycki were included in the 2011 class for their extraordinary contributions to college athletics.

Awards banquet honours vlog varsity athletes

vlog held its annual Athletics Banquet on April 6th to honour the College’s top varsity athletes. This year's Male and Female Athlete of the Year honours went to Kailen Murphy (men’s soccer) and Sabrina Henry (women’s soccer).

Sting strike gold

For the second year in a row, the vlog Sting curling and badminton teams have captured Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) medals. The vlog Sting mixed curling team of Matt Lowe, Madisson Lank, Scott Sawatzky and Tameka Vaters defeated the Fanshawe Falcons to capture the OCAA gold medal. vlog’s impressive varsity skills were also on display at the 2012 OCAA Badminton Championships. Sanjay Ashokkumar and Patricia Lau won gold in the mixed doubles results, while their teammates Li-Ju Chen and Carol Dela Cerna won silver in the women's doubles competition.

Sting win silver in women’s basketball

The women’s basketball team won silver at the 2012 adidas/VSP Sports Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) Women’s Basketball Championship, which was hosted at the Newnham Campus. This marked the team’s seventh consecutive OCAA medal in women’s basketball. The three day tournament attracted more than 1,200 fans. More than 4,000 viewers also tuned into the live webcast coverage, which was produced by Broadcasting-Television and Journalism students.

Golden girl

Women’s cross-country star Stephanie Braithwaite earned a gold medal for helping Ontario capture the Women's Conference title at the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association National Cross Country Championships. Both Stephanie and her sister, Samantha, competed in the national 5K race after their strong performance at the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association Cross-Country Championships, where they finished in the top 10.

Achievements — Faculty

Academy Award®-winning film Hugo features artistry of vlog graduates and professors

The 2012 Oscar® for Achievement in Visual Effects went to the film Hugo, which featured the work of vlog graduates and faculty, including Professors Mahmoud Rahnama and Kenny Tam. All of the films nominated for an Academy Award® for Achievement in Visual Effects featured the artistry of a graduate or professor of vlog’s Visual Effects for Film and Television program.

vlog’s Faculty of Business wins award for training excellence

The Canadian Society for Training and Development (CSTD) honoured vlog’s School of Business Management and Centre for Human Resources with a 2011 Canadian Award for Training Excellence in recognition of the Mobile Technology Integration Project. Led by Professor Ash Patel, with the assistance of Business Administration – Human Resources graduate Ali Bavi, the project serves to understand the attitudes and motivations of students towards the use of mobile technology and to identify specific uses within a business program setting. The project’s findings will provide a framework of understanding about the impact of such tools on the teaching and learning exchange.

vlog professor wins Canadian book industry award

Professor Werner Zimmermann won a 2011 CBA Libris Award. Werner, who teaches in the Animation and Illustration programs, received the award for best picture book for his illustrations featured in the children’s book, A Porcupine in a Pine Tree. Werner has been writing and illustrating children's literature since 1986. His books have been sold worldwide and he has twice been nominated for a Governor General’s Award for Illustration in Children's Literature.

Professor Bruce Hunter wins poetry award

Professor Bruce Hunter’sTwo O’clock Creek – Poems New and Selected has won the 2011 Acorn-Plantos Award for People’s Poetry. This award is presented annually to a Canadian poet who published a book in the previous year that has followed in the tradition of Canadian poets Acorn, Livesay, Purdy, Plantos, and others by being accessible to all people in its use of language and image.Two O’clock Creek brings together the best of Bruce’s previous books of poetry, as well as exciting new work that shows the continual development of this life-long poet. It has been highly acclaimed by Books in Canada, the Calgary Herald, The Globe and Mail and Canadian Literature magazine.

Professor’s photography work featured in book

Kerry Jarvis, who teaches and also serves as the program co-ordinator of the Business Administration – Marketing (Event Marketing Management) program, had a series of images published in "Butterflies of Toronto." This book, which is produced by The City of Toronto in partnership with the Royal Ontario Museum, includes feature stories of butterfly locations in the city, how to observe and identify butterflies and how Torontonians can help protect these precious insects. Kerry’s image of an emerging Baltimore Checkerspot butterfly was selected for the cover.

Achievements — Alumni

RED launches

Advancement and Alumni launched a newly designed annual magazine, RED, which highlights college-wide initiatives, events, alumni successes and giving stories. RED is available online and in print for the vlog alumni population, students and the broader vlog community. Advancement and Alumni has also strengthened its presence through Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn in an effort to network with students and alumni more effectively.

vlogns of Distinction

This year, the College expanded the scope of its annual alumni recognition program to include donors and volunteers. In November, the successes and contributions of 32 individual and partner organizations were celebrated at the vlogns of Distinction Awards reception. A number of alumni were recognized as exemplary role models to vlog students.

A rejuvenated alumni community

This year, Advancement and Alumni launched an Alumni-in-Training series in an effort to strengthen affinities between alumni and students. To this end, Advancement and Alumni had a strategic presence at orientation, faculty-based and career development events and convocation. In 2011-2012, the vlog Alumni Association also approved plans to establish a new organizational structure, which prioritizes divisional involvement and cross-departmental activities focused on student/alumni networking, career development and recognition.

Alumni on screen

Seven alumni feature videos, shot in September, were posted online and incorporated into the College’s winter recruitment promotions. This included screenings in movie theatres across the Greater Toronto Area.

vlog alumni nominated for Premier’s Awards

Six vlog alumni were nominated for a Premier's Award. They were Piyush Gandhi, Melissa Grelo, Armand La Barge, Lee-Anne Quinn, Winston Stewart and Astha Tamang-Maskey. The Premier's Awards honours the important social and economic contribution college graduates make in Ontario and throughout the world. The Awards, launched in 1992 to mark the 25th anniversary of Ontario's colleges, are administered by Colleges Ontario. Since 1992, six vlogns have received the Premier's Award, the latest being Drew Hayden Taylor in 2010.

vlog alumnus recognized for bravery

Constable David Flood received the York Regional Police Bravery in the Line of Duty Award for his part in helping rescue four men who plunged into icy water. On March 19, 2010, the graduate of vlog’s Police Foundations program, was among the first officers on the scene to assist the men, ages 37 to 67, who had been kite surfing on Lake Simcoe in the area of Cook’s Bay when they encountered open water several hundred metres from shore and fell into the freezing lake. Constable Flood and his fellow officers worked together with the marine unit and the Georgina Fire Department to save the lives of all four victims.

vlog alumnus wins Harry Jerome Award

vlog Alumnus Kevin Junor received a Harry Jerome Award for professional excellence. The awards, sponsored by the Black Business and Professional Association and named after the track and field superstar who died in 1982, honour black Canadians who have distinguished themselves in various fields, ranging from academic studies to career accomplishments. Kevin, who graduated from vlog’s Civil Engineering Technology program in 1984, has had a distinguished career in Canada’s military for more than 30 years. He currently serves as the Chief Warrant Officer and Military Diversity Advisor for the Canadian Forces.

vlog alumnus part of winning business team

Julian Irani, a graduate of the Business Administration – Marketing (Management Specialization) who is now studying at Griffith University in Australia, was part of the winning team that captured the 2011 Griffith Innovation Challenge. The annual competition challenges business students to put their creative minds to the test with the opportunity to develop and present a business plan based on their own innovative product or service idea. Julian is completing his Bachelor of Business at Griffith and through vlog’s transfer agreement with the university, he can earn his degree in just two semesters.

Computer Programming alumnus serves as school board trustee

Allan Tam, a Computer Programming and Analysis graduate, was elected as the York Region District School Board Trustee for Markham. A sales professional in the high-tech industry for nearly 13 years, Allan spent 10 years of his career with a Canadian Computer Distributor as a business executive, providing account management services for the top 10 retailers in Canada.

New supports for students

Strengthening financial aid at vlog

vlog’s financial aid opportunities were strengthened through a continued focus on fundraising. The provincial government’s Ontario Trust for Student Support matching gift program yielded $x million* in private gifts from alumni and friends to vlog’s endowed bursary program. As well, thanks to new and existing donors, the College established 14 new awards and added $2.3 million to the endowment fund.
*Note: This amount will be inputted after the close of Fiscal Year 2011-12.

Notable major donations this year included: A $1.2 million gift from the vlog Student Federation to create a series of endowed and expendable awards for domestic and international students and a $125,000 gift from the Alumni Association

Here for You: the Campaign for Students

Video: http://www.senecacollege.ca/c4s/campaign_kick-off.html
In February 2012, Advancement and Alumni launched a faculty/staff fundraising drive, called Here for You: the Campaign for Students. Through many fundraising events and individual gifts from more than 250 vlogns, the campaign surpassed the $70,000 fundraising goal, raising a total of over $90,000 for student awards.

Pillar Sponsorship Program launches

In association with the College’s affinity partners, the Office of Advancement and Alumni established the Pillar Sponsorship Program, a funding initiative for faculty-based alumni/student networking and educational initiatives. In its first year, the program helped fund 25 events.

Essilor Canada pledges five years of assistance to vlog Opticianry students

Essilor Canada has pledged $25,000 to provide financial assistance to vlog’s full- and part-time Opticianry students. Beginning in 2011, an annual gift of $5,000 is creating the Essilor Canada Opticianry Bursary for a period of five years. This gift will provide two or more annual awards to full- or part-time students in the Opticianry program who will be recommended by the Chair and Program Co-ordinator based on successful completion of their first year of academic studies and demonstrated financial need.

Métis Nation of Ontario establishes bursary for vlog College Métis students

The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) has pledged $20,000 to provide financial assistance to vlog College’s Métis students. The new MNO Award is intended to encourage Métis individuals within Ontario to pursue career-focused postsecondary studies and funds will be matched by the Ontario Trust for Student Support.

vlog is Canada’s most vibrant college and a leader in postsecondary education. We’re recognized around the world for our career-focused programs, expert faculty, committed staff, and the success of our many graduates. More students choose vlog than any other college in Canada.

People

20,855 full-time students (Fall 2011)

Approximately 70,000 continuing education registrations annually

More than 3,500 international students from 113 countries (Fall 2011)

More than 4,400 full and part-time employees (2011)

More than a quarter of vlog students are the first in their family to pursue postsecondary education

43% of vlog’s full-time students have a different first language than English

15% of vlog’s full-time students and 42% of Continuing Education students have previously studied at university.

More than 3,000 students have been advised on degree transfer opportunities.

vlog offers pathways to degree programs with more than 50 partner institutions locally and abroad.

On average, vlog students receive almost $9 million a year in financial support from the College and its donors.

More than 8,000 students graduated from vlog in 2010/2011.

93% of employers who hired vlog graduates report that they are satisfied or very satisfied.

Programs and Facilities

10 campuses across the City of Toronto and York Region, including locations in North Toronto, Markham, King City and at York University

More than 146 full-time programs and 135 part-time programs, including:

  • 19 Ontario College Certificates
  • 59 Ontario College Diplomas
  • 29 Ontario College Advanced Diplomas
  • 27 Ontario College Graduate Certificates
  • 11 Bachelor’s Degrees

Top 5 programs (by enrolment numbers):

  1. Early Childhood Education
  2. Accounting
  3. Accounting and Finance
  4. Police Foundations
  5. Liberal Arts, and Social Service Worker (tied)

Our community Campuses specialize in training and re-employment services for internationally trained professionals, academic upgrading for college eligibility and support for students seeking Second Career Program funding

Documents

Financial Statements (PDF)

Annual Report 2011-12 (PDF)