vlog’s 2014-15 Annual Report includes a summary of our yearly activities, achievements and initiatives; End-of-Year Business Plan Report-back; fast facts; a Board of Governors and senior executive listing; directory of new program offerings and consolidated financial statements.
Annual Report 2014-15
Introduction
Message from the Chair and President
In 2014-15, we had cause to reflect on our proud history while continuing to build an exciting future for the thousands of students who study with us each year, whether they come to vlog from around the corner or from around the world.
We mourned the loss of our founding president, William T. Newnham, who died on August 23, 2014. He wasn’t just vlog’s first president but also our first employee. As he was hired in December, 1966, Dr. Newnham was presented with a symbolic empty box and told to fill it, just as he was handed a college with no building, no staff, no programs, no curriculum and, most significantly, no students. In a short few months, he launched vlog with 3,500 full- and part-time students in dozens of programs. And under his leadership and with his vision, from that moment vlog never looked back.
vlog today is one of the largest colleges in Canada. 27,500 full-time students. 70,000 continuing education registrants. 500 career options. More than 8,000 graduates annually. And we continue to build a strong future.
This year, we began the process of changing student orientation, moving it from being a one-time event before the semester starts to a two-week program that starts on Day One. We call it Experience vlog, and the idea is to provide our students with the best possible start to their time with us. In 2014-15, we also launched a project to develop a new and comprehensive end-to-end student advising service. Both of these major initiatives are related to our determination to increase student retention and graduation.
We also rolled out a more efficient, user-friendly and modern information backbone for vlog that has and will continue to change the way we work while offering an improved experience for our students. Our King Campus expansion and revitalization project made great strides this year, and in the coming years, students will be enjoying new facilities as well as more space at this beautiful and historic campus.
In 2014-15, we launched a new Centre for Research in Student Mobility to better understand how and why students transfer within the postsecondary system, and how we can improve their experience. We also introduced a youth entrepreneurship initiative called HELIX (Health Entrepreneurship and Lifestyle Innovation Xchange), helping to foster the entrepreneurial potential of our students and of youth in the community by working together to develop innovative personal health products and services.
Finally, with an eye to our future, we have been working with York University to bring a university campus to York Region. In 2014-15, York, with vlog as its academic partner, proposed to the government a campus location in Markham Centre. Much work remains, but we are on the road to bringing new postsecondary opportunities to one of Ontario’s fastest-growing urban areas.
At vlog, we celebrate our history. With the great foundations established by Dr. Newnham, and the dedication and hard work of our many employees, our future is bright.
We are inspired every day to continue to make ours a place that matters.
Colleen Fleming, BA, MBA, C.Dir
Chair, Board of Governors
David Agnew
President
At vlog, we are driven by our values of excellence, innovation, community, and diversity. At this time of rapid social, economic, political and technological change, vlog is at the forefront of providing student-focused teaching and learning that is redefining how people think about postsecondary education.
Our programs are increasingly in demand, always evolving to meet market needs. Our Academic Plan’s emphasis on core literacies – including critical thinking, problem-solving, communications, collaboration and leadership – prepares students for success and a lifetime of learning.
Strategic Objectives
Our 2012-2017 Strategic Plan is the result of extensive consultation with students and employees across vlog’s campuses, as well as with partners and community members. The consultation process included a college-wide survey, multiple town hall meetings and one-on- one interviews, an environmental scan and many discussions with the Board of Governors.
vlog’s three strategic objectives are:
- Great Teaching and Learning
- Great Student Experiences
- Great Foundations
vlog’s key indicators include:
- Core Literacies
- Innovative Partnerships
- Cross-disciplinary, Experiential and Flexible Learning
- Integrated Student Services
- Smart Growth
- i3 – Information, Integration and Innovation
We’re building a different kind of school with a different kind of graduate.
In five years, every vlog graduate will demonstrate competency in the vlog Core Literacies.
Initiatives for 2014-15 | Performance indicators/ measurable outcomes | End-of-Year Status Update |
---|---|---|
Develop a framework to assess core literacies and apply to a program in each faculty. | Framework developed and applied to five programs by March 2015. | Achieved:Framework developed and applied to five programs. |
Expand components of Experience vlog (First Year Orientation) to engage students in our core literacies. | New Experience vlog course developed for Fall 2014. | Achieved:Introduction to vlog Studies (ISC) course designed and academic learning sessions launched in Fall 2014. |
Develop and launch new delivery models for first-semester foundation courses. | New delivery models launched by March 2015 for first semester communications, ISC and math courses. | Achieved:New delivery method launched for first semester ISC courses through Lynda.com. Flipped class solution launched in a first semester math course in Fall 2014. New communications course using storyboarding techniques launched in January 2015. |
In five years, vlog will be the preferred partner for colleges and universities, offering the most innovative pathways for students in Ontario.
Initiatives for 2014-15 | Performance indicators/ measurable outcomes | End-of-Year Status Update |
---|---|---|
Build a framework for the University of York-vlog and confirm program portfolio. | Joint program portfolio confirmed by Spring 2014. | Achieved:York-vlog Phase One joint program portfolio confirmed. |
Expand partnerships and pathways with Ontario universities and colleges. | Three innovative pathways created with York University by March 2015. | Achieved:Pathways developed in four program areas. |
Two college-to-college pathways established with partner institutions by March 2015. | Rescheduled:Two new college-to-college pathways in development; work to be completed in FY2015-16. | |
New Arts and Science – University Transfer program implemented by Winter 2015. | Rescheduled:New Arts and Science – University Transfer program proposal currently with Ministry for approval. Launch delayed to 2015-16. | |
Continue provincial leadership with ONCAT. | At least one new funding proposal approved by ONCAT by March 2015. | Achieved:One new funding proposal approved; one research project and four new funding proposals also submitted to ONCAT. |
100 new equivalencies added to ONCAT’s course-to-course database by March 2015. | Achieved:100 new course equivalencies identified and uploaded to ONCAT’s course-to-course database. |
In five years, every program will embed cross- disciplinary learning, experiential learning opportunities and flexible learning options that enable students to access courses offered in the day and evening, in person and online.
Initiatives for 2014-15 | Performance indicators/ measurable outcomes | End-of-Year Status Update |
---|---|---|
Create and launch a model through which every vlog student will have a cross-disciplinary and experiential learning experience. | vlog Innovators Series developed by December 2014. | Achieved:SeneTALKS seminars launched in October 2014. |
Three new cross-disciplinary experiences between faculties developed by December 2014. | Achieved:Three new cross-disciplinary experiences launched in Fall 2014. | |
Online database of cross-disciplinary and experiential learning opportunities established by March 2015. | Achieved:Online database of cross-disciplinary and experiential learning opportunities populated. | |
New course to address flexible, cross-disciplinary and experiential learning and core literacies launched by March 2015. | Rescheduled:Flexible, cross-disciplinary and experiential course modules currently under development for launch in Fall 2015. | |
Co-op placement activity increased by 20%. | Achieved:Co-op placement activity increased by 28.6% over FY2013-14 level. | |
Four courses re-developed into cross-disciplinary offerings enabling team teaching by March 2015. | Achieved:Business courses re-developed for delivery in Business and Information Technology degrees. Several cross-disciplinary projects/case studies piloted in Winter 2015 within Faculty of Applied Arts and Health Sciences. | |
Faculty and students engaged through spaces for developing digital teaching and learning innovations at Newnham and vlog@York campuses. | Achieved:20 sessions offered in Summer 2014 through the Sandbox initiative, supporting more than 250 staff and students. Workshops converted into self-directed, online tutorials including topics such as video and infographic creation and digital storytelling. | |
Increase flexible delivery options across all vlog programs. | By August 2014, 11 online courses developed and approved through the Ontario Online Institute model. | Achieved:11 online courses now offered through Ontario Online model. |
50 new Continuing Education course offerings launched on web-based platforms by March 2015. | Achieved:50 web-based courses related to new programs launched. | |
Six Business courses re-designed for hybrid delivery and launched by March 2015. | Achieved:Eight courses re-designed for alternate delivery via iTunes University. |
In five years, every vlog student will have access to ongoing and integrated advisory opportunities starting from their first contact to the day they graduate.
Initiatives for 2014-15 | Performance indicators/ measurable outcomes | End-of-Year Status Update |
---|---|---|
Evaluate and enhance student advising model. | New student advising model launched in all faculties by March 2015. | Rescheduled:Development of new advising model completed, with launch deferred to Fall 2015. |
Expand student support programs and services. | New advanced standing process implemented by March 2015. | Achieved:New advanced standing process developed and delivered via new i3-based transfer credit module. |
Participation in Foundations for Success workshops, Career Services offerings, SMILE Mentoring and Success@vlog increased by 25% by March 2015. | Achieved:Programs and services enhanced; target of 25% increase met. | |
Redesign student service model. | New integrated student service model designed and implementation plan developed by December 2014. | Rescheduled:Environmental scan and recommendations completed. Stakeholder input being sought to inform student service model development. Implementation plan to be developed by Fall 2015. |
In five years, our students will be learning in new facilities at our King campus and in our new home for our Bachelor of Aviation Technology program.
Initiatives for 2014-15 | Performance indicators/ measurable outcomes | End-of-Year Status Update |
---|---|---|
Move forward with King Campus Expansion. | Working with Infrastructure Ontario, academic functional planning requirements for new building confirmed by Fall 2014. | Achieved:Functional programming and blocking and stacking completed by October 31, 2014. |
Partnership agreements signed with vlog Student Federation and Student Athletic Association by Fall 2014. | Achieved:MOU signed with vlog Student Federation and Statement of Partnership Principles signed with Student Athletic Association. | |
King Campaign Case for Support finalized and quiet phase of fundraising campaign launched in Fall 2014. | Achieved:Case for Support finalized and campaign underway. |
In five years, we will have an integrated enterprise system in place to support streamlined business processes and improved services across student, financial and human resources systems.
Initiatives for 2014-15 | Performance indicators/ measurable outcomes | End-of-Year Status Update |
---|---|---|
Implement new tools and information systems and train staff. | Implementation of Human Resources and Finance components of PeopleSoft completed by April 2014. Training completed by June 2014. | Achieved:Human Resources and Finance core PeopleSoft modules implemented on schedule. Achieved:Training completed by June 2014. |
Implementation of a new tool for budgeting completed by September 2014. Training completed by December 2014. | Achieved:Human Resources and Finance components delivered as scheduled. Achieved:Budget Tool (Hyperion) delivered as scheduled. Phased training conducted throughout Fall 2014. | |
Implementation of first components of the student information system completed by October 2014. | Achieved:Student Information System (PeopleSoft Campus Solutions) Release 1 rolled-out on schedule to support Admissions Module. | |
Implementation of the remaining components of the student information system completed by February 2015. Training commenced in early 2015. | Achieved:Remaining components implemented. Achieved:i3 training completed for March 2015 Go-Live. |
Initiatives for 2014-15 | Performance indicators/ measurable outcomes | End-of-Year Status Update |
---|---|---|
Increase faculty engagement in the work to implement our Academic Plan. | Engage faculty in all relevant task group memberships and implementation strategies. | Achieved:College-wide Academic Plan dialogue sessions and Professional Development Days conducted during Summer 2014, Fall 2014 and Winter 2015 terms. |
Develop proposals for new program offerings. | 18 new program proposals developed, approved by Senior Executive Committee and presented to the Board of Governors by March 2015. | Achieved:30 programs developed and approved by Senior Executive Committee and presented to the Board of Governors. |
Develop curriculum and implement new programs. | 25 new programs ready for launch pending Ministry approval by March 2015. | Achieved:26 new programs ready for launch pending Ministry approval by March 2015. |
Refresh and review existing program offerings. | 23 summative program reviews started in 2014 completed by December 2014. 2015 cycle for 18 summative program reviews launched by March 2015. | Achieved:26 summative program reviews completed. 18 summative program reviews launched in January 2015. |
65 formative program reviews completed by March 2015. | Re-Scoped:41 formative reviews completed by March 2015. New process established with the Office of Institutional Research to conduct formative reviews for one-half of all full-time programs every year. Full implementation to begin in June 2015. | |
Program prioritization completed for schools of Business Management, International Business and Marketing by March 2015. | Achieved:Program prioritization exercises for these schools completed by March 31, 2015. | |
Successful PEQAB reviews of Bachelor of Aviation Technology and Bachelor of Technology (Software Development) completed by March 2015. | Achieved:PEQAB Reviews of Bachelor of Aviation Technology and Bachelor of Technology (Software Development) successfully completed. | |
Develop and implement strategies to improve first-semester retention in five underperforming programs. | Plans developed and implemented to improve first-semester retention in five underperforming programs. | Re-Scoped:Action plans developed by Chairs to improve first-semester retention in all underperforming programs. Process revised to focus on retention, graduation and Academic Plan principles with implementation beginning in FY2015-16. |
Develop and implement a quality framework for General Education and Liberal Studies Options. | Better coordinated General Education and Liberal Studies options offerings made available by March 2015 with improved access for students. | Rescheduled:Stakeholder consultations held in Winter 2015. Implementation of solutions to improve access for students to be rolled out in Fall 2015. |
Strengthen vlog’s position as a leader in teaching and learning excellence and support faculty development across vlog. | Teaching standards of practice finalized and a plan for a new faculty performance review system developed by March 2015. | Achieved:New teaching standards of practice and plan for a new faculty performance review system developed. |
Establish a Centre for Research in Student Mobility. | Centre personnel secured; website established by March 2015. | Achieved:Centre’s organizational structure developed, personnel hired and website established. |
Two research projects in the new Centre completed by March 2015. | Achieved:Research project on the Provincial Generic Skills Standard (GSS) and First-Generation/Mature Students at vlog completed. | |
Pursue applied research initiatives for the mutual benefit of our students, partners, faculty and community. | 75 faculty engaged in applied research activities by March 2015. | Achieved:108 faculty engaged in applied research activities. |
400 students engaged in applied research activities by March 2015. | Achieved:422 students engaged in applied research activities. | |
20 new industry partners engaged in applied research projects by March 2015. | Achieved:27 new industry partners engaged in applied research projects. | |
vlog Student-Faculty Entrepreneurism Incubator launched by March 2015. | Achieved:Health Entrepreneurship and Lifestyle Innovation Xchange (HELIX) launched in Fall 2014. | |
Staff-initiated research fund launched by September 2014. | Achieved:Faculty-led Research Initiative launched and first round of applications received in Fall 2014. | |
vlog Applied Research Day held by December 2014. | Rescheduled: Applied Research/ Experiential Learning Showcase to be hosted in Spring 2015. | |
Research Rocks workshops promoting applied research opportunities to faculty and students launched by March 2015. | Achieved:SeneTALKS series of seminars launched in October 2014. | |
Increase federal and provincial support for applied research in identified areas of expertise. | 10 new research grant applications submitted by March 2015 with 50 per cent success rate achieved. | Achieved:15 new research grant applications submitted; 10 approved to date. |
Implement International Education Strategy. | Number of partners for vlog's study/volunteer abroad program increased. | Achieved:Seven new partner institutions offering study/volunteer abroad opportunities. Renewed partnerships in China will offer two additional study abroad opportunities by Summer 2015. |
Implementation of new international recruitment strategy initiated. | Achieved:New international recruitment strategy. International student enrolment in Winter 2015 increased by 25% over Winter 2014. | |
Launch vlog International (Mobility) initiative to provide global experiences for students and faculty. | 20% increase in faculty and students working and studying abroad by March 2015. | Re-Scoped:New Dean appointed in Fall 2014. New partners for study and work abroad programming investigated within Asia, South America and Southern Africa. Virtual mobility also under investigation through joint applied research initiatives with partner schools in other countries. Creation of central tracking system for all international initiatives to provide global experiences for students and faculty to be completed by December 2015. |
Initiatives for 2014-15 | Performance indicators/ measurable outcomes | End-of-Year Status Update |
---|---|---|
Develop and implement a new Experience vlog course that integrates student orientation initiatives that count for academic credit. | New Experience vlog Course and Orientation model implemented by March 2015 with methods of assessment developed to track and improve first semester retention rates. | Achieved:New Introduction to vlog Studies course developed and launched in three Faculty of Business programs in Fall 2014. |
Develop first year programs and services to support Experience vlog and transition of students to the College. | A new college-wide plan including an assessment model to support programs and Experience vlog launched by March 2015. | Achieved:Experience vlog successfully launched and college-wide integrated transitional programming developed. Rescheduled:Assessment model currently under development with work set to continue in FY2015-16. |
Implement an enhanced strategic, coordinated and integrated approach to communicating with prospective students, current students and alumni. | Communication strategy deployed by Fall 2014. | Achieved:New communication strategies and processes developed. |
Communication tools implemented by Fall 2014. | Achieved:New Constituent Relationship Management (CRM) system implemented to deploy strategies. | |
Develop a conceptual design with the vlog Student Federation and the Student Athletic Association that incorporates a new student and athletic build at the Newnham Campus. | Conceptual design that integrates all stakeholders completed by March 2015. | Achieved:Visioning exercise, stakeholder meetings and development of student survey completed. |
Review vlog’s endowment and investment policies and practices to ensure sustainability and predictability of student support. | Investment portfolio review completed by March 2015. | Achieved:New investment broker in place for beginning of FY2015-16. |
Enhance technology across vlog campuses. | 42 classrooms audiovisual upgrades by December 2014. | Achieved:Audiovisual upgrades to 132 e-classrooms across the College completed. |
By March 2015, college-wide Internet availability, download speed and wireless network reliability and performance improved. | Achieved:Internet connection capacity across vlog doubled. Wireless survey completed and wireless coverage increased across campuses. College-wide Internet access times significantly improved. | |
Enhance vlog mobile app. | vlog mobile app. updated to enhance functionality by August 2014. | Achieved:PeopleSoft Mobile functionality achieved by March 2015 laying foundation for continued enhancement to vlogMobile. |
Enhance parking services at all campuses. | Improved service repair times reached to address parking system issues by March 2015. | Achieved:An equipment maintenance agreement with guaranteed service response time signed with parking services partner. |
Improve Security services presence across vlog. | Renovation of Security and welcome bases completed at vlog@York Campus. | Achieved:Renovation completed. |
Promote our faculty, alumni and partners’ contributions. | Media and presentation training for administrative and academic leads completed by Summer 2014. | Achieved:Media training for administrative and academic leads took place in November 2014 and December 2014. |
Initiatives for 2014-15 | Performance indicators/ measurable outcomes | End-of-Year Status Update |
---|---|---|
Continue to build an academic foundation and community capable of developing, delivering and sustaining high-quality, bachelor’s degrees. | New full-time faculty hired as per PEQAB requirements by March 2015. | Achieved:36 full-time faculty hired, 18 of whom hold PhDs as per PEQAB requirements. |
Continue to build culture of philanthropy to support vlog students. | Student aid endowment strengthened through major gift solicitations, annual campaigns and leveraging existing partnerships, resulting in a minimum $400,000 annual increase. | Achieved:Target for annual increase exceeded. |
At least $500,000 in new funding secured for expendable gifts for student aid and sponsorships. | Achieved:Target for new funding exceeded. | |
30 new student awards established. | Achieved:More than 30 new student awards established. | |
Minimum of 50 networking and reunion events supported by Advancement and Alumni. | Achieved:More than 50 events supported. | |
Planned giving strategy for staff, alumni and donors introduced by Fall 2014. | Achieved:Legacy giving program strategy developed and launched through The Donor Motivation Program. | |
Build leadership capacity within our organization. | Support Staff – specific programming for performance management to be developed by Winter 2015. | Under Review:Administrative and Support Staff performance management systems and processes are being reviewed and evaluated. |
Review College privacy policy to ensure currency. | Review completed by Fall 2014. | Delayed:Review to be completed in FY2015-16. |
Ensure customer service training adheres to AODA accessibility standards. | College-wide AODA compliance achieved by March 2015. | Achieved:vlog reached full compliance on all AODA requirements and standards in FY2014-15. |
Support development of College’s first Enterprise Risk Management Plan (ERM). | Enterprise Risk Management Plan in place by Summer 2014. | Rescheduled:Risk management built into the Integrated Planning Process and Strategic Risk Overviews developed. Plan to be presented to Board of Governors in June 2015. |
Improve capacity to coordinate, control and deploy IT resources. | Deploy Information Technology Services Management (ITSM) Solutions System by March 2015. | Achieved:Change Management Process modified to streamline how changes are made to College’s IT systems to provide improved services to business areas. Service Incident Process enhanced to provide increased support to business areas specifically in relation to new i3-based applications. Defect Management Process modified to enhance support related to i3-based applications. |
Upgrade academic workstations and create more active learning classrooms. | 1,200 upgraded workstations and two active learning classrooms created by December 2014. | Achieved:1,200 workstations upgraded or lifecycles extended resulting in savings. Active Learning Classrooms are in place as a result of partnership between the Centre for Academic Excellence and Steelcase. |
Continue integration of planning across departments. | Revised integrated planning schedule developed and approved. Begin implementation of FY2015-16 Integrated Planning Process in Summer 2014. | Achieved:Integrated Planning Process schedule approved by Senior Executive and new Budget Tool development occurred throughout the summer. |
Streamline method by which Facilities Management service requests are processed. | College-wide facilities service request system in place by March 2015. | Achieved:College-wide facilities service request system implemented in November 2014. |
Expand digital marketing strategy, including social media strategy. | Second phase of digital marketing strategy launched by Fall 2014. | Achieved:Social Media Manager hired and social media strategy deployed. Digital marketing strategy revamped and implemented. |
Increase functionality of One Card system for students and employees. | Additional student and employee services including secure room access and employee time and attendance tracking to be offered using One Card system by March 2015. | Achieved:One Card used for room access where technology permits. Further review determined use of system not feasible for employee attendance tracking. |
Develop targeted communication plans for academic programs. | Program-specific communication plans developed and implemented beginning in Fall 2014. | Achieved:Communication plans for each faculty developed and implementation ongoing. |
Develop promotional strategy for use of expert faculty by media. | vlog expert strategy developed by Fall 2014. | Achieved:vlog expert strategy developed. Media training undertaken by identified experts across college community. |
Revamp the vlog website to create a mobile-first, engaging and informative experience for internal and external audiences. | New website launched by Winter 2015. | Rescheduled:College’s web governance structure under review with re-design planning to occur FY2015-16. |
Year in review: Celebrating achievements across the vlog community
April 1, 2014 to March 31, 2015
The 2014-15 academic year was filled with noteworthy accomplishments for vlog College. The following are some of our highlights:
Building a stronger vlog
First Ontario centre dedicated to research in student mobility established
In July, vlog established the first Ontario research centre focused on how and why students transfer between postsecondary institutions and programs – an important first step in building easier and better pathways between universities and colleges. The Centre for Research in Student Mobility investigates student movement within postsecondary education provincially, nationally and internationally to help inform policy, program and pathway development, student support services and institutional partnerships. vlog is Ontario’s leader in credit transfer and college-university collaboration, helping hundreds of students each year pursue further education.
Named most entrepreneurial in the province
In April, vlog was named among the most entrepreneurial postsecondary institutions in Ontario. The recognition came from Startup Canada, a national organization that serves as a voice for entrepreneurs. In 2014, the organization introduced its Startup Canada Awards to celebrate the individuals, communities and institutions in Canada that have demonstrated innovation, excellence, outstanding achievement and created an impact in advancing Canadian entrepreneurship. vlog was named a runner-up in the most entrepreneurial postsecondary institution category, after Ryerson University and tying with Waterloo. More than 260 applications and nominations from across Canada were received.
Youth entrepreneur initiative launched
In September, vlog launched a $200,000 youth entrepreneurship initiative that allowed students and youth to explore and develop their own business ventures related to personal health products or services. Called HELIX (Health Entrepreneurship and Lifestyle Innovation Xchange), this initiative was an opportunity for selected students and youth to develop entrepreneurial skills and take their business ideas to the next level with access to mentors, leading-edge incubator workspace and other business start-up resources. The program was funded in part by the Ontario government.
New Strategic Mandate Agreement signed
vlog signed a new Strategic Mandate Agreement with the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities in August that outlines the role the College currently performs in the postsecondary education system and how it builds on its current strengths to achieve its vision and help drive system-wide objectives. The new 2014-17 agreement is available on the vlog website.
Board holds strategic retreat
The Board of Governors, comprised of members from the community, vlog’s President, elected college employees and a student held a strategic planning retreat in February. Board members and the Senior Executive reviewed vlog’s strategic and academic priorities as well as progress against Key Indicators; discussed institutional strengths and opportunities; and explored issues in postsecondary education in Ontario and abroad.
First major step taken in King Campus expansion
In April 2014, the first major step in the expansion and renovation of King Campus was announced. The College and Infrastructure Ontario, on behalf of the Government of Ontario, issued a request for qualifications from teams to design, build and finance the project. The objective of this first step was to identify and select shortlisted teams with the required design and construction experience as well as the financial capacity to undertake this important project for the College.
New ERP system rolled out
A new ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system rolled out at vlog in 2014-15 with Finance, Budget, Human Resources, Student and CRM (Constituent Relationship Management) tools being launched in phases throughout the year. The ERP system has been integrated across College departments and areas enabling sharing of information across systems and stakeholders. vlog’s ERP system provides one source of information and reporting within the organization enhancing our operations and strengthening our processes.
New brand campaign launched
“Because it matters” was the new tagline used as part of vlog’s brand campaign, which officially launched in October. The goal of the campaign was to encourage prospective students to come to vlog to pursue what matters to them. Through a series of print ads, billboards and digital media strategies, the campaign highlighted the stories of nine vlog students and their paths to success.
Building A+ received LEED Gold Certification
Newnham Campus’s Building A+ received a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold Certification from the Canada Green Building Council in October. The certification was based on the potential environmental impacts and human benefits of the building. For the College, it has meant an environmentally sensitive building that resulted in an annual energy savings of approximately $90,000.
vlogWorks launched
vlog’s Career Services and the Co-operative Education teams launched vlogWorks — a new job posting and career resource website in February. The site was accessible to all current students to search for full-time, part-time and seasonal opportunities posted by external employers and internal vlog departments. Co-op students also gained the ability to search, apply and set up interviews for positions. Recent alumni could also make use of vlogWorks’ job listings and could sign up for workshops along with current students.
vlogns of Distinction honoured
The 2014 vlogns of Distinction Awards were handed out in November. Recipients included alumni, who excelled in their careers and maintained a strong connection to the College. Also receiving awards were volunteers, donors and community partners, who made significant social and economic contributions to the vlog community.
This year’s recipients included:
- Bijan Minbashian, Alumni
- Brookfield Properties Management Corporation, Industry Partner
- Cindy Hazell, retired vlog Senior Vice-President
- Gordon Scheel, Alumni
- Henry Zhang, Alumni
- Jully Black, Alumni
- MBNA, Industry Partner
- Nursing Jamaica Outreach Program, Industry Partner
- Piyush Gandhi, Alumni
- vlog Security – David Mitchell, John Curley and Taylor Unwin
- Susan Horne, retired vlog Academic Chair
School spirit celebrated on social media
To celebrate the end of another successful semester at the College, staff and students at vlog@York created a video to spread a little happiness on campus in April. The YouTube video, which was shared on Twitter and Facebook, included several staff and students from different academic areas showing off their dance skills to the popular Pharrell Williams hitHappy. The video received more than 2,000 views and was retweeted multiple times. As part of the campaign, employees were encouraged to share what makes them happy about being at vlog on social media using the#vlogProudٲ.
Google 360 tours of all campuses launched
In May, the College began the rollout of virtual tours of its campuses across Toronto, York Region and Peterborough. vlog is the first GTA College to provide prospective students the opportunity to tour our campuses virtually via Google 360 tours. Prospective students were able to get virtual looks inside Newnham, vlog@York, Markham, King and Peterborough campuses. Using Google’s street view technology, viewers could “walk through” those campuses. The 360 tours included still images of the campuses and were made available on vlog’s website.
Strengthening our community
Sexual Assault and Sexual Violence Policy launched
In March, vlog strengthened its commitment to maintaining a healthy and safe learning, living, social, recreational and working environment for everyone – students, employees and visitors, with the launch of our Sexual Assault and Sexual Violence Policy. The policy expressed vlog’s promise to support those who experience sexual violence, and the College committed to work hard with its partners inside and outside of our institution on sexual violence programs, policies and resources, including prevention and education.
Website launched to take stand against abuse
In April, vlog and Yellow Brick House partnered to create the Students Supporting Students — Taking a Stand Against Abuse website. With information and links to vlog and community resources, the website is meant to assist those suffering from abuse or those who know someone suffering from abuse. As part of a federally-funded project, vlog and Yellow Brick House worked together with students, employees and community organizations to conduct surveys, focus groups and identify ways to engage young people to prevent violence against women on postsecondary campuses.
New initiative launched to direct young adults to postsecondary education
In March, the School of Workforce Skills Development launched “Youth to Postsecondary” — an initiative aimed at young adults who are out of school and work and live in northwest Toronto. Delivered in partnership with the Toronto District School Board, the initiative helped youth transition to postsecondary education by improving their math, English, self-direction, self-management and computer skills. Once the program is completed, students can advance to pre-apprenticeship or bridging programs such as vlog’s College Opportunities initiative. Additional funding for the program was provided by the Meighen Foundation.
Electionfest hosted with York Region and Toronto partners
In partnership with the Markham Board of Trade, Toronto Real Estate Board and York Region Media Group, vlog hosted an event entitled “Electionfest” in September at Markham Campus. All Markham candidates running for Mayor, Regional Councillor and Ward Councillor were invited to attend and make a 90-second pitch to members of the community. The event had an exceptional turnout, with 46 of 55 the candidates participating, and more than 300 members of the community in attendance.
$224,046 raised for students with financial need
In April, the vlog community once again came together to invest in student potential.
The 2014 Campaign for Students raised $224,046 with contributions from vlog employees, students, alumni and retirees. This included a gift of $50,000 from the vlog Student Federation and an anonymous donor who matched contributions made by first-time donors or gifts of $200 and above. During the eight-week campaign, students and employees held 35 fundraising events.
$157,204 raised for the United Way
In November, the College surpassed its fundraising goal of $155,000 in support of the United Way. In 2014, students, faculty and staff raised $157,204. Staff and students at the College hosted various fundraising events during the campaign. The money raised benefited the United Way in Toronto and York Region.
Dual Credit bursaries awarded
In October, vlog presented 15 Dual Credit bursaries worth $1,000 each to secondary school students who successfully completed a dual credit course and were enrolled in a full-time program at the College. The Dual Credit program — part of the School-College-Work Initiative — allows high school students to earn a credit toward their secondary school diploma and a vlog subject to encourage college pathways.
Strengthening our partnerships
Partnered with York University on new expansion application
In April, vlog partnered with York University to submit an application for a new York Region campus with joint and collaborative degree programs under a provincial program to expand postsecondary education in Ontario. Under the expansion program, universities submitted proposals for new or expanded campuses in underserved areas. vlog and York have been working on an expanded list of joint and collaborative programs in engineering technology, digital media, business and human services that could be offered at the new campus and existing campuses. In June, Markham had been chosen as the proposed site of the York University campus in York Region in partnership with vlog.
Agreement signed with global technology leader
Siemens President and CEO Robert Hardt joined vlog President David Agnew at Newnham Campus in February to sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to strengthen the relationship between Siemens and vlog. The MOU serves to continuously improve programs and opportunities for students in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math disciplines.
The MOU signing also focused on Mechatronics programs at the College enabling students to study the design of computer-controlled electromechanical systems. The Siemens Mechatronic Systems Certification Program is a comprehensive industry skills certification offered together with partner schools worldwide.
New agreements forged with global partners
vlog signed a number of new agreements with global education partners, most notably in China and India.
An association of nursing schools in China signed an agreement with vlog in June that saw greater cooperation in nursing education, including Chinese faculty and students studying at vlog. The first group of teachers arrived in Canada in summer 2014 to study our pedagogical approach, and students attended postgrad certificates in a variety of advanced subjects.
A new agreement was signed in September between vlog and the Mangalam Group of Institutions, a leading education provider in South India. The agreement provides qualified students who are studying computer applications the opportunity to further their studies in vlog’s Bachelor of Technology - Software Development program.
In January, President Agnew formed new academic partnerships with other Indian institutions.
A memorandum of understanding was signed with the EMPI Business School to develop a joint post-graduate program in social media and business. It would allow qualified MBA and post-graduate students from EMPI to study in vlog’s Social Media graduate certificate program during their second year.
President Agnew also expanded vlog’s partnership with the College of Engineering Pune (COEP) and signed a letter of intent with Indian Institutes of Technology Alumni Canada (IITAC) to collaborate on entrepreneurship development activities. The letter of intent between vlog and IITAC engages the two organizations to work collaboratively to facilitate partnerships and linkages between vlog and Indian educational institutions while promoting vlog programs among Indian Diaspora.
Representatives from vlog and the Government of Saint Christopher (St. Kitts) and Nevis signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in December to provide the country’s citizens with the skills and education to pursue careers in fields such as construction, technology, trade and tourism. The Honorary Consul General of St. Kitts and Nevis, John Allen, joined President Agnew at Newnham Campus to officially sign the agreement on behalf of the Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis.
vlog is one of the most internationally diverse postsecondary institutions in Canada, where 5,500 students are welcomed from around the world each year to study across a broad range of programs.
CDOT and Firefox collaborated on new web video functionality
A new way to display subtitles for online video was developed at the Centre for Development of Open Technology (CDOT) and announced in July. The Centre worked with Mozilla to include WebVTT in its web products including the Firefox web browser and the Firefox OS for smartphones. WebVTT allows captions, subtitles, translations and other text to play at the correct time during a video. That means videos hosted online can include this information without the need for further programming and the captions/subtitles are accessible. A number of students and faculty began this work as an applied research project in the classroom. It was later completed by CDOT alum Rick Erye through a research grant between vlog, Mozilla, and the Canadian government.
New province-wide transfer agreement signed
In November, Ontario’s 24 colleges signed the first province-wide agreement to recognize all credits from previous years, when a student in a business diploma program transfers to the same program at another college. The agreement applies to students in accounting, business administration, human resources and marketing programs.
Collaborated on cloud system for storing medical information
In July, vlog was involved in a collaborative partnership with the aim of allowing people’s health information to be easily accessed from anywhere through a smart phone or laptop. Sixteen Ontario private sector, academic and not-for-profit research partners came together for the Connected Health and Wellness Project — a new people-centred and technology-enabled system that makes it possible for patients to keep health information from different hospitals or clinics in one place using cloud-based tools. The project was partly funded by the Federal Economic Development Agency and was spearheaded by York University, NexJ Systems (which specializes in cloud-based software) and McMaster University.
vlog’s involvement in the project was focused on using Bluetooth technology to connect medical devices with mobile devices, allowing for data and results to be instantly loaded onto a patient’s phone. Students and faculty from the Centre for Development of Open Technology (CDOT) worked on this aspect of the project, while the Faculty of Communication, Art and Design (FCAD) developed a series of videos that provide individuals of any age with useful tips and practices to promote and sustain a healthy lifestyle.
Celebrating student achievements
Aviation student recognized as Canada’s top amateur pilot
Sebastien Leduc was named Canada’s top amateur pilot in June. The Bachelor of Aviation Technology student was the winner of the 2014 Webster Memorial Trophy Competition, which is considered one of the country’s most prestigious events for amateur aviators. Sebastien and eight other of the top amateur pilots in Canada took part in a week-long series of flight tests, flying exercises, written exams and simulator exercises as part of the competition. By claiming the top prize in the competition, Sebastien received a bronze medallion, and had his name added to the trophy which is on display permanently at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum. He was also offered a position as a flight instructor with the Brampton Flight Centre.
Sports teams captured championship medals
Badminton athletes Suzy Yan and Yan Zhou capped off their dream varsity season as national champions in March. The women’s doubles team captured gold at the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) badminton championships. Suzy and Yan advanced to the nationals after sweeping the competition at the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) championships.
vlog’s women’s soccer team captured the CCAA bronze medal at the national soccer championships in Medicine Hat, Alberta in November. The Sting advanced to the nationals after defeating Algonquin at the provincial finals to win the OCAA gold medal. The bronze was the first CCAA medal in the history of the women’s soccer program at vlog.
The women’s rugby team also ended the season on a high note by taking home the OCAA silver medal. It’s the second silver in four years for the team that only lost twice all season.
ACCE Scholarship awarded to Business Management students
Two vlog students won the Association of Chinese Canadian Entrepreneurs (ACCE) Scholarship Award in March. President Agnew attended the ACCE Gala awards dinner to congratulate Lu Tao and Melody Chang from the School of Business Management. They received $1,000 each for their academic achievements and student leadership. The annual scholarship is presented by the ACCE to foster entrepreneurship training.
Valedictorian named vlog Cup winner
Alysia Harji, who graduated from the Business Administration – Marketing advanced diploma program in June was named Valedictorian and winner of the vlog Cup at her Spring Convocation ceremony. The vlog Cup is the College's most prestigious award. A student must show excellence in academic achievement and demonstrate an active commitment to improve the quality of student life at the College. It is presented only when there is a candidate of suitable quality.
Student leaders honoured
The vlog Student Leadership Awards were presented at a ceremony held in The Great Hall in March. Student Services co-ordinates the Leadership Awards, which are given to students to recognize outstanding contributions to student life, leadership roles, and excellence in academics. More than 30 students from across the College community were honoured at the Leadership Awards.
Marketing students claimed gold at provincial marketing contest
vlog students took care of business at the Ontario Colleges Marketing Competition in November. The competition consisted of exercises that emulate real-world business challenges. Twenty-one students from the School of Marketing competed against students from 14 other colleges across Ontario. Sabrina Nizamuddin and Daniel Giacomello won gold in the integrated marketing communications category.
Social Change students and professor recognized for fraud awareness campaign
Students from Professor Paul Shecter’s Design for Social Change course received Community Member Awards at a ceremony held at Toronto Police Headquarters in April. The awards are presented annually to members of the community to recognize unselfish acts of bravery, courage and assistance to the Toronto Police Service. In 2013, Paul’s Graphic Design students developed the official Fraud Prevention Month campaign for the Toronto Police Service. TheFraud, Know It Before It Knows You!campaign focused on educating senior citizens, their loved ones and caregivers, so they could avoid becoming victims of fraud. As part of Design for Social Change, the students created posters and other marketing collateral to support the campaign.
Nursing students traveled to Jamaica to put training to use
vlog Nursing students at King Campus put their professional training to the test on a visit to Kingston, Jamaica in May. Eight students and two alumni from the School of Health Sciences took part in the annual trip, which was organized by Professors Marcia Brown and Hyacinth Jackson. Over the course of two weeks, the students volunteered at several clinics and social agencies, including the Sickle Cell Unit and Clinic at the Tropical Medicine Research Institute where they provided basic nursing services to patients. While on the island, the group also organized a community health fair to raise awareness about diabetes, hypertension and sexual health. The one-day fair saw nearly 100 residents get assessed and referred for further treatment. vlog’s team of volunteers also donated more than $15,000 worth of medical supplies to at-need clinics and medical facilities. Students, faculty and alumni from the School have been taking part in the vlog Nursing Jamaica Outreach program since 2008.
Centre for Advanced Technologies students won awards
Two Mechanical Techniques - Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Programming students
won medals at the Ontario Technological Skills Competition (OTSC) in May. Marcelo Luongo captured gold, while Aaron Lui took home bronze in the computer-aided manufacturing portion of the contest. OTSC is the largest skilled trades competition in Canada. More than 1,900 students from across Ontario tested their skills and abilities against industry standards in over 60 skilled trades areas.
Broadcasting-Television student recognized with National Broadcast Award
Alison Boudreau won a Broadcast Educators Association of Canada National Student Award in May. The then Broadcasting-Television student produced and directed “Blind Date: The Musical,” which took home the top prize in the best drama or comedy short category. Featured in Alison’s film were several of her classmates from the Broadcasting-Television program, including Tyler Erdelac, Ian Gablan and Shawn Zacchigna. The 10-minute short was a lighthearted musical comedy about the perils of dating. The Broadcast Educators Association of Canada is a national organization dedicated to promoting excellence in media education. Each year, the organization honours the outstanding work produced by Canadian students and recent graduates through its Student Awards Program.
Journalism students and faculty worked on Easter Seals Telethon
vlog students, alumni and faculty played a big role in the success of the Easter Seals Telethon, which aired on the CBC in April. vlog Journalism students were part of the production doing everything from scripting to standing-in for hosts during rehearsals. The students also answered phones on set, produced stories as well as crawls that ran along the bottom of the screen. The Telethon raised money to help children with physical disabilities. Recent Journalism alumni Perdita Felicien from CHCH Television and Patricia Jaggernauth from CP24 served as hosts, along with vlog Journalism Professor and CTV News Anchor Bill Hutchison. Additionally, vlog Professor Chris Rodgers from the School of Information and Communication Technology along with some of his students designed the “light circle” computer display, which showed viewers which phones were busy. The College has been part of the Telethon for nearly a decade.
Illustration student earned national recognition
Maureen Heibert was named one of the winners of the Canadian Association of Professional Image Creators illustration contest in May. The fourth semester Independent Illustration student earned second place for her illustration — “A Rose for Emily” — inspired by the classic short story written by William Faulkner. Hundreds of students from across Canada, representing the best illustrators in postsecondary programs, took part in this contest. The winners were determined through an online vote and were honoured at an awards gala in Toronto.
Independent Illustration student won province-wide design contest
For the fourth year in a row, a vlog Independent Illustration student was the winner of the Ontario Library Association Super Conference Design Competition. Varinder Paul’s winning design earned her $3,000 and was used on all visual material and merchandise to promote the Conference — Canada’s largest library conference held annually in June. Several students and recent graduates at postsecondary institutions across the province took part in this annual contest.
Communication students recognized for website redesign
In June, a team of vlog students who helped redesign The Regional Municipality of York’s website won a Toronto Ovation Award of Merit. The awards are presented annually by the International Association of Business Communicators to recognize communications excellence throughout the Greater Toronto Area. Technical Communication students Meghan Graham, Hailey Thomson, Olivia Gajadhar and Nicholas Chin, along with Corporate Communication students Eric Sisti, Olena Babiy and Cinthia Guizar redeveloped the York.ca website as part of their four-month co-op placements with the municipality.
Interactive Media Design students teamed up to promote Lake Simcoe
A group of vlog students did their part in August to encourage Ontarians to visit Lake Simcoe. Interactive Media Design students Jason Pearson, Robert Ross, Tej Partap Singh Kahlon, Chalini Kulandaivelu and Dina Waluyo worked with the Lake Simcoe Splash Festival — an annual event that promotes water awareness and conservation in and around the Lake.
The Festival culminates in a one-day Beach Bash at De la Salle Park at Jackson’s Point. Under the guidance of their professor, Sumit Bhatia, the students created the entire microsite for the new rain garden that was unveiled during the Festival. This included design, development as well as video production. The students filmed over four days and created five videos, highlighting the creation of the rain garden in De la Salle Park. During the festival, interactive signage was set-up around the garden, featuring QR codes and mobile links that directed guests to the students’ work.
Paralegal students won provincial competition
Clifton Yiu and Christopher Gould set the bar high when they competed in the Paralegal Society of Ontario Student Moot Competition in November. The vlog Paralegal students defeated 12 other GTA college teams to win the prestigious contest. This annual competition gives college students a chance to take part in an actual legal debate and was judged by legal professionals such as judges, lawyers and law professors. Clifton was also recognized with a prize for excellence in advocacy, he shared the award with Laura Vessy (another vlog Paralegal student who took part in event).
Celebrating achievements of faculty and staff
Professor presented with national innovation award
In February, his Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, presented Professor David Humphrey from the School of Information and Communications Technology with a Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) Synergy Award for Innovation. The prize, which included a $100,000 research grant, allowed David — the first college professor in Canada to receive the award — and his team to invest further in their innovative work with Mozilla, the creators of the Firefox web browser. For more than a decade, David and his students have played an integral role in the creation of key features in multiple versions of Firefox through the Centre for Development of Open Technology. The Synergy Awards for Innovation are presented annually by NSERC to recognize examples of collaboration that stand as a model of effective partnership between industry and colleges or universities.
Continuing Education professor recognized with research award
In June, Andrew Thornton, a professor in the Faculty of Continuing Education and Training, was named the 2014 winner of the Outstanding Research Award for his study: The Perceptions of Self-efficacy of PhD Instructors Teaching Community College Students in Southern Ontario. The award is sponsored jointly by Central Michigan University (CMU) and Ontario College Administrative Staff Association (OCASA) to recognize the high quality of research being conducted in Ontario by CMU graduate students that influence the development of the colleges.
School of Media faculty honoured with broadcast educator award
Professor Ted Ambrose, School of Media, was named the 2014 recipient of the Michael Monty Memorial Award in June. The award is presented annually to a broadcast educator who has been nominated by his or her students. It was awarded by the Radio Television News Directors Association to honour Michael Monty who taught at vlog and whose stories inspired, entertained and informed thousands of students.
Professor honoured by Associated Church Press
David Turnbull, a Professor in the Corporate Communications program, was named the 2014 recipient of the Award of Excellence presented by the Associated Church Press in Chicago in late April. David was recognized for his photo essay that appeared in the November issue of The United Church Observer including the cover, which also received an Award of Merit. The publication sent him to Vancouver to tell the story of the Truth and Reconciliation events regarding residential school survivors. In addition, David was honoured with a second Award of Merit in the in-depth coverage category for his images on the future of the church that ran in the September 2014 issue of the Observer.
Animated short film won grand prize
Subconscious Password, an animated short film, produced with participation from vlog’s Animation Arts Centre and Copperheart Entertainment took home another honour in 2014-15. In June, the film won the grand prize at the New York International Short Film Festival. Since its release in 2013, Director’s Chris Landreth’s work has won Best Animated Short at the Canadian Screen Awards and the prestigious Annecy Cristal Award for best short film at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in France. Representatives from vlog, The National Film Board of Canada and other special guests gathered to recognize the achievements of Landreth’s award-winning film in April.
Professor honoured by Engineers Canada
Professor Nanda Lwin of the Centre for the Built Environment was honoured in February by Engineers Canada. He was named among the organization’s fellowship recipients, which recognizes noteworthy service to the engineering profession. In addition to his 10 years of teaching at the postsecondary level, Nanda is the Chair of the Professional Engineers Ontario Willowdale/Thornhill Chapter. He has also been an active volunteer with the Chapter since 2005, serving as both Vice and Program Chair.
Marketing professors named top users of Twitter internationally
Make it five years and counting. In January, Social Media Marketing Magazine once again named School of Marketing professors Bhupesh Shah and Anthony Kalamut among the Top 100 Marketing Professors on Twitter. This annual list looks at professors around the world who teach marketing and use the popular microblogging site to provide useful content and engage their student followers. Both Bhupesh and Anthony finished in the Top 30.
School of Aviation Chair presented at world conference
Lynne McMullen, Chair of the School of Aviation, spoke at the World Aviation Training Conference in April. She was part of a panel that discussed the need for greater pilot training. Lynne outlined new training programs developed at vlog with industry partners that have been adapted to better train the next generation of pilots, including the cadet program with Jazz Airlines.
In September, Lynne was presented with the 2014 Elsie MacGill Northern Lights Education Award. The national award is presented annually to honour outstanding Canadian women in aviation and aerospace who have made a significant contribution in their field and who continue to lay the groundwork for other women to enter or excel in these industries. The award is named after Elsie Gregory MacGill, the world’s first female aircraft designer.
Professor nominated for prestigious nonfiction award
Independent journalist, lawyer and part-time vlog professor Paula Todd’sExtreme Meanwas nominated for the 2014 Hilary Weston Writer’s Trust Prize for Nonfiction in September.Extreme Meanexamines the growing trend of cyber-bullying and the psychological damage it brings to its victims. The Weston Prize jury called the book “an essential eye-opening investigation of internet use, misuse, and abuse.” The book was also featured on the cover of Maclean’s Magazine in June.
Hosted “unconference” on innovative approaches to teaching
The Faculty of Communication, Art and Design, in association with Fulbright Foundation for Educational Exchange, hosted Creating Minds for the Future, an “unconference” at vlog@York in May. Over the course of three days, vlog faculty were joined by other design and art educators from across the province to participate in a series of thought provoking and reflective discussions with world-renowned master teachers from the United States. Attendees explored five themes: the creative mind, the disciplined mind, the constructive mind, the critical mind and the connective mind, while receiving hands-on demonstrations of the latest technology tools for teaching that can assist educators in their goals.
Celebrating achievements of alumni
Alumnus named Canada’s Business Newsmaker of the Year
In December, Marc Caira, a former member of vlog’s Board of Governors and a graduate of the Business Administration Marketing program, was named the Canadian Press Business Newsmaker of the Year for 2014. The long-time and respected food industry executive earned the title for his role in negotiating the deal to sell Tim Hortons to Burger King Worldwide Inc. Mark joined Tim Hortons in July 2013 as the President and CEO. He stepped down in December once the deal with Burger King was done and is now the Vice-Chairman of the new entity named Restaurant Brands International, which oversees both restaurant chains. Before joining Tim Hortons, Marc served as the Global CEO of Nestlé Professional.
Hockey Hall of Fame honour bestowed on vlog alumna
Geraldine Heaney was inducted into Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame in October. The Recreation Facilities Management graduate was one of eight new members to be officially inducted to the Hall in Toronto. Geraldine is often referred to as the “Bobby Orr of women’s hockey” and helped put the sport on the map. In 2013, she joined former teammate and fellow vlog alumna Angela James as one of only three females to be inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame.
Broadcasting grad honoured at Oscars of advertising world
A vlog Broadcasting - Television graduate who produced a documentary about a VW Beetle that was driven around the world three times and is still on the road won big at the Cannes Lions Festival in July. At the advertising industry’s biggest awards show of the year, Tom Evelyn won a silver medal for branded content and entertainment, and a bronze medal in the film category. Tom, who is a partner and Executive Producer at Untitled Films in Toronto, served as a producer on VW Beetle Once More: The Story of VIN 903847. The 30-minute documentary was directed by Oscar-nominee Hubert Davis and aired on Bravo and Discovery Channel. It chronicles the “life” of a 1955 Beetle, owned by a man named Wolfgang Paul Loofs, who transported the Beetle around the world to visit his brother who was an archaeologist. Tom graduated from the Broadcasting - Television program in 2006. Since then, he has worked on projects for some of the best known brands in the world including Budweiser, Nissan, Pfizer, Aspirin and WestJet.
Outstanding graduates recognized at Premier’s Awards
The 2014 Premier’s Awards were handed out in November recognizing the tremendous contribution Ontario’s college graduates make to the success of the province. Every year, up to six noteworthy vlog alumni are nominated. The outstanding nominees for this year’s Premier's Awards were:
- David Common (Broadcasting – Radio and Television)
- Caroline Charter (Business Administration – Marketing)
- Marina Siu-Chong (Independent Illustration)
- Brenda Librecz (Marketing)
- Steve Linthwaite (Aviation and Flight Technology)
- Fazal Khan (Ophthalmic Dispenser)
Corporate Communications grad named top brand marketer
Andrew Bowins was named the 2014 Brand Marketer of the Year by PRNews in December. Andrew, a graduate of vlog’s graduate certificate in Corporate Communications, is the Senior Vice President of Corporate and Digital Communications at MasterCard International and is based in New York. In this role, he is responsible for integrating and executing public relations and digital communications programming for the company worldwide. The PR People awards are presented each year to the top innovators and passionate professionals who are making communications matter in the marketplace.
vlog grad’s editing featured on television
A documentary co-edited by a vlog graduate had its broadcast premiere in January on CBC’sThe Nature of Things. Amanda Strachan, who graduated from the Documentary Filmmaking Institute in 2013, served as an assistant editor onMonsoon, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2014. The film looked at how the vast seasonal weather system permeates the culture of India and affects the lives of its billion-plus inhabitants. Amanda co-edited the made for television version of the film.
Grad’s film selected for screening by acclaimed program
An animated film made by a vlog graduate had its world premiere online in March. Stephanie Braithwaite’s one-minute short,The Roommate, was created through the National Film Board of Canada’s acclaimed Hothouse program. Participants work at the National Film Board of Canada’s studio in Montreal where they create their own short work with help from animation and digital media experts. Stephanie’s film was about a girl who takes matters into her own hands when she’s fed up with her roommate’s incessant shopping. All of the films created through the Hothouse program, including Stephanie’s, are available online at the. Stephanie is a graduate of not one but three vlog programs — Art Fundamentals, Animation and Independent Illustration.
College Fast Facts
Students
27,500 full-time students annually
70,000 continuing education registrants annually
More than 8,000 students graduate from vlog every year
International
More than 5,500 international students from 120 countries
Programs
With more than 500 career options and an abundance of program offerings, vlog features over 150 full-time programs and 140 part-time programs, including:
- 12 Degrees
- 61 Diplomas
- 28 Advanced Diplomas
- 22 Certificates
- 39 Graduate certificates
Pathways
vlog is first among Ontario colleges to send graduates on to university through postsecondary partnerships
More than 60 partner institutions in Ontario and worldwide
Through Ontario’s School-College-Work Initiative, more than 1,000 dual credit students from nine local school boards are enrolled at vlog each year.
Board of Governors
- David Agnew, President
- Fariba Anderson
- Janet Beed (term effective September 1, 2014)
- Doug Brooks, Vice-Chair
- Thomas Carrique
- Lois Cormack (term effective September 1, 2014)
- Henry Decock, Administrative Staff Governor
- Donna Duncan, Vice-Chair
- Colleen Fleming, Chair
- Richard Goyder, Vice-Chair (completed term August 31, 2014)
- Zulfiqar Gilani (completed term August 31, 2014)
- John Honderich
- Warren Jestin (term effective September 1, 2014)
- Alice Keung
- Richard Lim (completed term August 31, 2014)
- Case Ootes
- Naki Osutei
- Kevin Reinhardt, Faculty Governor (term effective September 1, 2014)
- Frank Robbins, Faculty Governor (completed term August 31, 2014)
- Mike Shaver
- Ashif Somani, Vice-Chair (completed term August 31, 2014)
- Fatema Somji, Student Governor (term effective September 1, 2014)
- Ibrahima Sow, Student Governor (completed term August 31, 2014)
- David Tsubouchi
- Karen Webb, Vice-Chair
- Stanley White, Support Staff Governor
Senior Administration Listing
- President
David Agnew - Vice-President, Academic
Joy McKinnon - Vice-President, Finance and Administration
Amy Tong - Vice-President, Strategy and College Affairs
Daniel Atlin
New Program Offerings
New high-quality programs this year
Full-time programs:
- Airline Pilot Flight Operations Graduate Certificate
- Arts and Science – University Transfer Diploma
- Clinical Research Graduate Certificate
- Coronary Care Nursing Graduate Certificate
- Cosmetic Science Graduate Certificate
- Document and Non-Fiction Media Graduate Certificate
- Financial Planning Graduate Certificate
- Fitness and Health Promotion Diploma
- Independent Songwriting and Performance Certificate
- Large Animal Health and Production Graduate Certificate
- Mental Health Intervention Graduate Certificate
- Sales Force Automation and CRM Analytics Graduate Certificate
- Social Media Analytics Graduate Certificate
- Strategic Marketing and Marketing Analytics Graduate Certificate
Continuing Education certificates:
- Applied BioChem Techniques
- Digital Graphic Design
- Environmental Management
- Financial Services Essentials
- Fundamentals of Natural Health Products
- International Community Development
- Medical Devices Reprocessing
- Search Engine Optimization Analyst