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In case you missed it, view videos that were played during the event. Photos from the event and more recordings will be shared next week, including President Armstrong's address and more.

Other highlights from the 2026 President's Kick-Off:

• 2026 Awards of Excellence Recipients

• Years of Service Milestone

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Summer is often a time for relaxation, outdoor activities, and connecting with family and friends, which can help renew our mental well-being. As summer ends and September begins, many people face new routines, responsibilities, and goals that require adjustment and preparation.

While some people adapt easily to these changes, others may find the transition stressful. The shift from the slower pace of summer to the demands of September can create feelings of pressure and overwhelm, making it an important time to recognize and manage stress. Stress can show up in our bodies, thoughts and feelings, and behaviour.

September can be a stressful period of transition, but by recognizing stress early, practicing healthy coping strategies, staying connected, and seeking support when needed, people can move beyond simply coping and thrive during times of change.

Homewood Health, our Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) provider, offers a variety of resources and tools to support mental health, wellness, and overall well-being.

To explore the full resource “Surviving September” and access other helpful EFAP supports, visit the Health, Safety & Wellness page on MyMohawk for instructions on accessing Homewood Health or visit www.homeweb.ca and click ‘sign in”, and enter the email: MohawkCollege@Efap.com and Password: MohawkEFAP#1

On September 1, a group of employees and students gathered at the Fennell campus for the first flag raising of The Survivor's Flag to recognize Truth and Reconciliation. The flag honours residential school Survivors and all the lives and communities impacted by the residential school system in Canada. It will fly for the month of September, leading up to National Truth and Reconciliation Day on September 30.

Learn more about the elements of the flag: https://nctr.ca/exhibits/survivors-flag/

Upcoming Events

Employees are encouraged to join the Indigenous team at these events planned throughout September.

Fall Social
September 18 | 5pm – 8pm | MSA Plaza

Celebrate the season with an evening of traditional drumming, dancing and dinner! Hosted by Mohawk College's Centre for Indigenous Relations, Knowledge & Learning, Indigenous Learner Success and Hamilton Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB)

Event Link: https://www.mohawkcollege.ca/events/staff-events-student-events/fall-social

RSVP: https://www.mohawkcollege.ca/form/special-event-registration

Walk for Reconciliation
September 23 | 11am – 1pm | McIntyre Theatre

Event in honour of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation / Orange Shirt Day. Join Mohawk College's Centre for Indigenous Relations, Knowledge & Learning Indigenous Learner Success and Mohawk Student Association (MSA) as we hear from Residential School Survivor Dawn Hill, before inviting attendees to walk along side us for a Walk for Reconciliation, followed by a post-walk reception with light refreshments from Indigenous caterers. NIWASA will be on site selling Orange Shirts for purchase.

Event Link: https://www.mohawkcollege.ca/events/staff-events-student-events/walk-for-reconciliation

RSVP: https://www.mohawkcollege.ca/form/indigenous-event-registration

The Mohawk Award of Excellence is the highest honour for recognizing individual employees at the college. Three Awards of Excellence are presented annually to an outstanding employee from the faculty, support and administrative employee groups. This year's awards were presented at the President's Kick-Off on September 3.

Congratulations to this year's recipients, Karen Davis, Melissa Crowley and Grant Hodson.

Award of Excellence - Faculty: Karen Davis

Karen Davis, Early Childhood Education Professor and Program Coordinator, is the 2026 Award of Excellence recipient in the Faculty category.

Karen has dedicated nearly 25 years to the Early Childhood Education program at Mohawk College.

She has demonstrated innovation and leadership through the development of initiatives such as the ECE Career Expo, providing students with valuable networking opportunities, career pathways, and direct engagement with employers in the field. Her leadership was especially evident during the pandemic when she guided faculty and students through the transition to online learning with flexibility and creativity. Her impact is further showcased through a recent collaboration with the International Department in developing a training program for educational partners in Egypt.

Karen's active participation on local committees and collaborative initiatives have strengthened connections between the college and the early childhood education sector, ensuring that the program remains responsive to community needs and workforce demands.

Her ability to build and sustain strong partnerships with community organizations, educators, and industry professionals is a key contributor to the sustained success of the ECE program. Her exceptional leadership and steadfast dedication to Mohawk College make her a deserving recipient of the Mohawk Award of Excellence.

Congratulations, Karen!

Award of Excellence - Support Staff: Melissa Crowley

Melissa Crowley, Senior Accounts Receivable Specialist, is the 2026 Award of Excellence recipient in the Support Staff category.

Melissa has played a critical role in Mohawk College's Banner Business Transformation project, also known as the BBT. She consistently goes above and beyond to understand not only current-state processes, but also how Banner SaaS can be leveraged to improve operational efficiency in our future state. She thoroughly reviews requirements, asks thoughtful questions, and challenges assumptions to ensure Mohawk adopts best practices rather than simply replicating existing processes.

Melissa has become a trusted resource across multiple project streams, proactively collaborating with Finance, IT, Student Services, and project consultants to help develop effective solutions while keeping project deliverables on track.

These qualities are not limited to her work on the BBT project; they have been evident throughout her tenure in finance. Whether navigating unique funding arrangements or addressing unusual one-off situations, Melissa is always looking for opportunities to improve outcomes for all. Her dedication to Mohawk College makes her a deserving recipient of the Mohawk Award of Excellence.

Congratulations, Melissa!

Award of Excellence - Administrative Staff: Grant Hodson

Grant Hodson, Director, Corporate Reporting and Banner Business Transformation Project Lead, is the 2026 Award of Excellence recipient in the Administrative Staff category.

Grant was described by his nominators as showing exceptional leadership, in-depth understanding of the college’s operations, and an unwavering willingness to support those around him.

He has made extraordinary and lasting contributions to Mohawk College in two recent projects. In the Strategic Mandate Agreement 3 process Grant played a central role in defining and projecting the performance metrics on which the college is evaluated by the province. His strategic insight and data-informed approach ensured alignment with institutional priorities and helped secure a sustainable foundation under the province’s performance-based funding model.

He is also playing a pivotal role in the college’s Banner ERP implementation. Through Grant's leadership, he has driven forward system modernization, safeguarded data integrity, and laid the groundwork for more efficient service delivery and data-informed decision-making across the college.

Whether leading critical initiatives like SMA3 or Banner implementation, or offering guidance to colleagues across departments, Grant’s collaborative approach fosters a positive and supportive work environment for all. His exceptional leadership makes him a deserving recipient of the Mohawk Award of Excellence.

Congratulations, Grant!

Every September, the City of Hamilton celebrates Smart Commute Month. Throughout the month, there are a variety of ways to get involved, including the Log a Trip Contest, sustainable travel webinars and more!  

Webinars:

• Safe Travels - Thursday, September 10
• Share Your Ride: Real Stories, Real Savings - Thursday, September 24

Smart Commute Contest:

• Log a trip for a chance to win a $100 prize pack! View the contest poster to learn more. 

Dr. Christine Boyko-Head, a Communications and Liberal Studies faculty member, has recently had her work published in The Emerald Handbook on Teaching Global Competencies: Theoretical Perspectives and Practical Applications Inside and Outside the Classroom. You can see her work in Chapter 12: Metaphor and Personal Story: Teaching Communication, Creative-Critical Thinking and Collaboration.

Abstract: Many learners and educators struggle to keep pace with the capacity-building needs and essential skill requirements of unknown, unpredictable futures. As educators, we must ask what might be the essential skills learners need to mobilize personal agency and positive social change in an interconnected world? How might global competencies transfer to, and be translated in, futures marked by demographic shifts, technological advances and geo-political tensions? This chapter proposes the specific global competencies of empathetic communication, equitable collaboration and ethical, creative-critical thinking as essential skills for all times, in all ages, whether interconnected, isolationist or fragmented, and for all learners despite cultural, social, biological and neurological diversities. However, the question remaining is how to engage learners with essential skills in a way that is relevant, meaningful and retainable for the various scenarios they will encounter over time and provide cognitive and imaginative tools for learners to internalize the mindsets necessary to think and act in and on the world that builds empathetic communication, equitable collaboration and ethical creative-complex thinking skills? This chapter shares the practices and findings of the author’s interdisciplinary action research projects (2018, 2020) that explore the impact of (1) cognitive inclinations, (2) 3D-Briefing and (3) metaphor and story-building to the teaching and learning of communication, collaboration and critical thinking for a changing world.

New Bulletin Just Released!

Catch up on the latest Banner Transformation news and developments in our monthly Bulletin. Explore mohawkcollege.ca/bbt to read more. Find the latest edition of the BBT Bulletin under News & Announcements.

This month’s newsletter includes:

• Release 1 preparation continues through testing, training, and readiness activities.
• MyMohawk Dashboard is taking shape as a new digital front door for students and employees.
• Discovery work is progressing to support future capabilities.
• Training and simulation activities continue across Finance, Student, and HR capabilities.

Join in as Mohawk College students, alumni and employees cheer on the Hamilton Tiger-Cats as they take on the Montreal Alouettes.

Friday, September 18 | 7:30 pm
Hamilton Stadium

Take advantage of this great Mohawk College Gameday Presenting Partner offer! 2 tickets + 2 TiCats/Mohawk dual-branded bucket hats for only $85.

Purchase your ticket package today!

Want to help make a meaningful impact in our workplace and community? Join the Mohawk College Work United Way Committee!

We’re looking for enthusiastic team members who want to get involved, share ideas, help organize initiatives, and inspire others to give back. We’d especially love to have representation from each of our campuses. 

If you’re Interested in joining the committee, please email mcuwc@mohawkcollege.ca. 

Dana Jacobs, Chair
Lina Bombardieri, Co-Chair

In August, players from Hamilton Forge FC stopped by Mohawk College Summer Camp. Through Mohawk College’s partnership with Hamilton Sports Group as the Official Post-Secondary Education Partner, the campers had the chance to learn from current Forge FC players, Keito Lipovschek and Kevaughn Tavernier.

Community programming plays a key role in the partnership with Hamilton Sports Group, which began earlier this year. At the centre of the partnership is student development, with a focus on experiential learning and industry access. Mohawk College students gain exposure to multiple areas of Hamilton Sports Group through mentorship opportunities, including gameday job shadowing and in-office experiences across the organization.

Also, earlier this month, VP Katie Burrows participated in the coin toss at the Forge FC game on August 19, representing Mohawk as the Presenting Sponsor.

Did you know you can pick fruit right on Fennell Campus?

Head to the Fennell Orchard on Governor’s Blvd., home to more than 30 apple and pear trees. It's a great spot to enjoy fresh fruit, learn about the campus’s agricultural roots, and support a space that helps pollinators thrive. 

Learn more about how Mohawk College supports local food and pollinators on campus!

While masking can sometimes help people navigate workplace situations, the ongoing effort involved can be mentally and emotionally draining. Over time, it may contribute to increased stress, reduced energy, and feelings of burnout.

Understanding the impact of masking can help build awareness, encourage more inclusive workplaces, and support individuals in finding strategies that allow them to work in ways that support their well-being.

Explore More

Homewood Health, our Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) provider, offers a variety of resources and tools to support mental health, wellness, and overall well-being.

To explore the full resource “Neurodiversity in Focus: The Energy Drain of Masking” and access other helpful EFAP supports, visit the Health, Safety & Wellness page on MyMohawk for instructions on accessing Homewood Health.

What does ‘boosting a vehicle” mean? Can it be done on my car?  

Boosting a vehicle, also commonly referred to as jumping or jump starting, all refer to a vehicle with a dead battery. It could be caused by leaving the vehicle’s lights on or other devices that drain power, but most often it is due to a bad battery.  

Today’s newer vehicles have a battery run-down feature that will shut off interior or headlights left on after the vehicle is turned off to protect the battery. The most common causes of a dead battery or a battery with not enough power to start are a worn-out battery or a vehicle that has been parked for too long without being started.   

Batteries typically last 3 to 5 years. But some vehicles left parked for a long period of time, like 30 days, can drain the battery as well. A little side note about batteries, sometimes they warn you before they fail. For example, a car will crank or turn over slower than usual. Still, other times, completely out of the blue, they will just die without warning.  

How do I know if I need a boost?   

In most cases, you come back to your vehicle, sit down and turn the key/push the button as usual, but nothing happens, or you hear a clicking sound, and the engine won’t turn over. At this point, you need a boost (a boost of energy from a good battery) to help your weak battery. Once the vehicle starts, the charging system will take over, and you can drive. This one event indicates that you need your battery and charging system tested. Often, when you shut the vehicle off again, it likely won’t start.  

Can I give someone a boost / Can my car even be boosted?  

Without getting into a lot of details, if you drive an EV you CANNOT boost a non-EV vehicle as you would damage the electronics on the EV system and lead to an expensive repair.  

If your vehicle has a gas or diesel engine you can boost anyone with some generic precautions.   

If you drive a Hybrid or Plug In Hybrid you would need to verify in the owners manual if you can boost another vehicle, often it’s the same as an EV. 

Why you can’t boost with an EV?  

The battery in a modern EV is much smaller than the one in an engine-powered vehicle.   

A traditional car/truck uses a large 12Volt battery that puts out tremendous power for its size, while the EV only needs a small battery to ‘turn on’ the larger battery, which powers the car.   

Also, while some EV’s use a small 12Volt battery, some have higher voltage batteries, some Tesla’s use a 16V battery and the Cybertruck uses a 48V battery so they cannot be used to boost anything! 

If my car is able to boost or be boosted, what is the process? 

For some people, the only real option is to call the CAA/tow truck and have them come out to boost you. For those with booster cables or someone who stops to help with their own, the process is relatively simple.  

Often, the best place to verify where and how to boost will be listed in your vehicle's owner’s manual; it will include details on how to boost safely, with pictures on where and how to do it.   

Money Saving Tip: For those that don’t have CAA or booster cables and or can’t rely on a Good Samaritan to come along, you can purchase a small portable booster pack like a NOCO GB140, at places like Canadian Tire or online. They are a GREAT portable booster, these little devices can boost your car, truck, boat, tractor etc. For the price, they are cheaper than paying for a tow truck and no waiting hours for a boost. These devices hold their charge for up to a year and can be stored in your glove box.   

Have an automotive  topic or question you'd like to see covered in another episode of Automotive Minute? Reach out to bob.brown@mohawkcollege.ca

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See recent hires and new positions for July 2026. 

New Full-time Hires

• Richie Marine - Building Services Technician (Building, Grounds, Housekeeping)
• Kristin Cook - Supervisor, Procurement (Purchasing)
• Kevin Bunt - Manager, Web and Digital Platform Transformation (Web & Content Optimization)
• Madison Drost - Library & Information Technician (Library)

New Positions

• Sonalben Patel - Admissions Coach (Admissions)
• Abby Taylor - Admissions Coach (Admissions)

Earlier this month, beneath the bright lights of a Windsor, Ontario pageant stage, stood an accomplished entrepreneur, content creator, model, actor, and humanitarian. 

As Aslihan Morali was crowned Miss Universe Canada 2026, the Mohawk College Office Administration – Health, 2018 graduate looked back on an incredible journey. One that had already taken her from arriving to Canada as a refugee at the age of 6 to the international stage. 

This moment was years in the making. 

Her journey included a Top 10 finish at Miss Universe Canada 2023, a second runner-up placement at Miss International Canada 2023, the title of Miss Supranational Canada 2025, and the Miss Congeniality award at Miss Supranational 2025. Each experience helped her grow as a competitor and leader. 

Behind those achievements were endless hours, late nights, sacrifices, and disciplined preparation, all balanced with the demands of everyday life. Through every setback, Aslihan continued to show up and believe in her purpose with a strong foundation behind her. 

“Education was one of the greatest turning points in my life,” she says. Growing up with limited resources, college provided her with an introduction to the professional world and opened doors she had never imagined. 

“Through my college program, I was fortunate to complete a co-op placement at McMaster Children’s Hospital and was later hired, which helped jump-start my career,” Aslihan explains. “Working in healthcare before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic profoundly shaped my perspective. It taught me about empathy, the fragility of life, and how meaningful even the smallest act of kindness can be.” 

A proud Turkish-Canadian advocate and community leader, Aslihan founded LEAP Global Voices, an empowerment initiative dedicated to helping young girls recognize their potential and rewrite their own stories. “Through LEAP, I share my own story with students and encourage them to understand that where they begin does not have to determine where they end,” she says. 

The young girl whose family packed their lives into two suitcases and came to Canada in search of possibilities has grown up to represent her new country. Aslihan demonstrates that a person’s beginning does not determine how far they can go.

When the crown was placed upon her head, she joined a legacy of extraordinary Canadian women. She accepted the honour with gratitude for the friends, family and team members who have carried the dream alongside her.

“Being Miss Universe Canada is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Only 75 women in the history of Canada have had the privilege and honour of holding this title, and I feel a tremendous responsibility to make this year meaningful,” said Aslihan. “What I’m most looking forward to is the outreach and the opportunity to connect with different communities, causes, and organizations across Canada and internationally.”

Although excited for the opportunity to travel and represent Canada, she says the success of this year will be measured not by the distances she travels or the number of events she attends, but instead by the people she’s able to connect with, the organizations she'll support, and the small positive impacts she will make every day.

Throughout her reign, Aslihan will continue her community work while preparing to represent Canada at the 75th Miss Universe competition in Puerto Rico this November.

For Aslihan, achieving this crown is not the conclusion of her story. It marks the beginning of a new chapter.

Memory plays an important role in our daily lives, helping us learn, stay organized, make decisions, and stay connected with others. While changes in memory can happen over time, there are many ways we can support brain health and maintain focus, learning, and overall well-being.

The Homewood Health resource “How to Boost Your Memory” explores how healthy habits, mental stimulation, and everyday strategies can help support memory and keep your brain active.

Explore More

Homewood Health, our Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) provider, offers a variety of resources and tools to support mental health, wellness, and overall well-being.

To access the full resource “How to Boost Your Memory” and explore other helpful EFAP supports, visit the Health, Safety & Wellness page on MyMohawk for instructions on accessing Homewood Health.

More than 150 professional games later, including the Toronto Maple Leafs and Hamilton Tiger-Cats, his work has received over one million views on Instagram in 2025 alone. But starting young came with a challenge: being taken seriously. It’s something Logan learned to navigate early, proving himself one game at a time.

Now at Mohawk College, he’s taking his experience further. In the Photography – Still and Motion program, Logan is mastering broader aspects of a photography career, combining real-world experience with an enterprising approach to build his own professional path.

“I feel like anyone can take a picture, but it takes more of a professional to create an impactful image,” says Logan. “That is what this program has done for me and how it’s turned me from a kid with a camera to a professional. I now know how to leave someone with that wow factor.”

Read the full story on the Mohawk College blog: Zooming in on a photography career

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New Bulletin Just Released!

Catch up on the latest Banner Transformation news and developments in our monthly Bulletin. Explore mohawkcollege.ca/bbt to read more. Find the latest edition of the BBT Bulletin under News & Announcements.

This month’s newsletter includes:

• Release 1 is nearing go-live as testing and readiness activities ramp up.
• Release 2 is moving forward, with key decisions, simulations, and future capabilities taking shape across Banner Student, HR and Finance workstreams.
• Explore recent milestones, team achievements, and what's coming next in the transformation journey.

In our busy work and personal lives, it can be easy to move from one priority to the next without taking time to pause and reflect. Creating space to look back on our experiences can help us gain perspective, recognize what has shaped us, and consider what we want to carry forward.  

Reflection can support our well-being by helping us better understand our experiences, identify what matters most, and approach what comes next with greater clarity and intention.  

Taking a moment to pause does not require a significant amount of time—it can be as simple as checking in with yourself, noticing what stands out, and considering what you want to bring forward.  

Explore More 

Homewood Health, our Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) provider, offers resources and tools to support mental health and overall well-being.  

To explore the full resource “Reflection: Taking a Moment to Look Back—and Move Forward,” and access other helpful EFAP supports, visit the Health, Safety & Wellness page on MyMohawk for instructions on accessing Homewood Health.

Webinar Details:

Thursday, September 17, 2026 | 1 - 2:30 pm

Register for the Evolving Landscape of Truth and Reconciliation webinar.

• The webinar will run for 60 minutes and there will be an opportunity for Q&A towards the end with the presenter
• Please note: CCDI does not distribute presentation slides.
• Please note that registration for our webinars will close at 4:00 p.m. ET, one business day before the event.

Accessing your CCDI Membership

As part of our continued efforts to advance EDI, Mohawk College has become a member of the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI).

Access resources available on the CCDI website and follow the instructions below:

• Click the “Login” button on the top right corner.
• Select “Register” and create your profile by completing the required fields on the registration form.
• IMPORTANT: You must use your work email address and select the name of your Company/Organization from the dropdown list.
• Upon submission of the form, you will receive an email with your login details. (Please check your junk/spam if you have not received it in your inbox)
• Use the credentials you received by email to login.
• Use the Home page to help navigate across the search options and curated resources (recorded webinars, Diversity Calendar, Employer Partner Learning Paths)

CCDI information is also available in the HR Employee Toolkit in MyMohawk.

About CCDI

CCDI is a national charity established in 2013 with the mandate of building a more inclusive Canada. CCDI partners with more than 700 organizations across Canada to help build strong and healthy workplaces, schools, and communities. This partnership provides employees and students with access to a wide range of resources, including:

• Research and leading practices on diversity and inclusion
• Educational webinars and training opportunities
• Tools to support inclusive leadership and workplace culture
• A national network of organizations committed to advancing EDI

Due to the many changes that have occurred over the last year and in an effort to ensure that our records are as up to date as possible, Annual parking permits paid through payroll deduction will not be renewed automatically this year.

If you are currently signed up for payroll deduction and wish to continue, you must submit a new payroll deduction request.

Please complete the online form: Payroll Deduction Parking Permit Form

We encourage you to submit your information as soon as possible to ensure your parking permit remains active without interruption.

Staff who purchase their parking permit outright may continue to do so online through the Parking Services website: Parking Services Portal

If you have any questions, please contact Parking Services at parking@mohawkcollege.ca.

Through this agreement, CLAC and Mohawk College will collaborate on the development of classroom and lab space at CLAC’s location in Grimsby, a short distance from the college’s skilled trades campus in Stoney Creek. The added capacity the Grimsby location provides will help with the backlog of apprentices waiting for in-class training in high demand Red Seal Programs such as electrical, plumbing, welding and carpentry.

The collaboration aligns with the Government of Canada’s Team Canada Strong initiative, which aims to recruit, train and hire 80,000 to 100,000 new Red Seal skilled trades workers by 2030-31. It also aligns with the province’s long standing push to get more people into the skilled trades.

“This partnership demonstrates how colleges and labour organizations can work together to solve urgent workforce challenges,” said Paul Armstrong, President of Mohawk College. “By expanding access to high-quality, hands-on apprenticeship training, we are helping more people move into in-demand careers while supporting the skilled talent pipeline employers need to grow Ontario’s economy.”

Rooted in a shared commitment to workforce development, the partnership brings together Mohawk College’s strength in industry-led skilled trades education with CLAC’s direct connection to workers and workforce needs in the field. Mohawk and CLAC will work together to identify skills gaps in the trades and respond with targeted, industry-informed programming. They will also explore how they can support accelerated learning pathways and integrate emerging technologies into trades education based on worker experience and insight, from the field.

“Ontarians need the breadth, depth and expertise of our community colleges, to serve the vast number of prospective tradespeople who come from all corners of the province,” said Ian DeWaard, CLAC Provincial Director. “This partnership strengthens our ability to support the next generation of skilled trades professionals by ensuring people have accessible pathways into well-paying, in-demand careers.”

Beyond physical infrastructure, the agreement commits both organizations to exploring future partnerships in applied research, workforce development, and emerging areas such as green construction, sustainable building practices, and next-generation skilled trades training. The facility is currently in the preliminary design stage, with plans to start the approvals process latter this year, and a ground breaking in early 2027.

About Mohawk College:

Mohawk College is a nationally recognized leader in applied research and education. Located in Hamilton, Ontario, the college serves more than 27,500 full-time, part-time and apprenticeship students annually across four main campuses. It offers nearly 200 industry-led programs spanning health, technology, aviation maintenance, skilled trades and climate action, and operates living classrooms embedded within industry partner sites. Since opening in 1967, more than 180,000 students have graduated from Mohawk College.

About CLAC:

CLAC is one of Canada’s largest independent national unions, with over 60,000 members working in a wide range of sectors—construction, education, emergency services, healthcare, retail, service, transportation, manufacturing, and more. CLAC (Christian Labour Association of Canada) was formed in 1952, based on the values of respect, dignity, and fairness.

Endorsements:

“Stoney Creek and Hamilton as a whole have long been known for their hard-working tradespeople. I am pleased to hear that reputation will continue to grow as Mohawk College and CLAC have partnered to get more apprentices the in-class training they need to succeed in growing fields such as welding, plumbing, carpentry and electrical work. The best way to ensure Canada continues to grow and prosper is to take care of those building it. I look forward to the valuable opportunities this will create for the residents of Hamilton East-Stoney Creek.”
- Ned Kuruc, MP for Hamilton East-Stoney Creek

“Canada needs more skilled tradespeople, and meeting that challenge takes a Team Canada approach. Partnerships like this one between Mohawk College and CLAC are exactly how we get there - expanding apprenticeship training, opening doors to good, rewarding careers, and building the skilled workforce to move our country forward."
- Lisa Hepfner, MP for Hamilton Mountain

“The future of Hamilton's economy depends on a strong skilled trades workforce, and Mohawk College is leading the way by preparing the next generation for careers in the building trades. Their work is helping build a Canada Strong economy while creating good-paying opportunities for workers across our region.”
- John-Paul Danko, MP for Hamilton West-Ancaster-Dundas

"Our government is focused on helping more young people discover the skilled trades and giving them clear pathways to rewarding, good-paying careers. Partnerships like this between Mohawk College and CLAC will expand access to hands-on apprenticeship training and give the next generation of workers the skills and experience they need to succeed. By working together with colleges, labour and industry, we’re building the skilled workforce Ontario needs to keep growing and building for the future.”
- Sheref Sabawy, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development

“Our government is making historic investments in skills training to ensure Ontario has the workforce needed to build homes, hospitals, schools, roads, and other critical infrastructure. The partnership between Mohawk College and CLAC will help more apprentices access the training they need right here in Hamilton, and strengthen our city’s position as a hub for the skilled trades. Partnerships like these will help fill in-demand jobs, support local employers, and create lasting opportunities for workers and families across our region.”
- Monica Ciriello, MPP for Hamilton Mountain

“We at the Town of Grimsby are excited for this new partnership between Mohawk College and the Christian Labour Association of Canada (CLAC). Workforce development has remained a key priority for the Town, and this new Memorandum of Understanding will help us achieve greater workforce alignment in the skilled trades. The College’s current apprenticeship pathways –like that with VTR Solutions here in Grimsby–are already bringing new talent and generating real successes for local industry and business. As we continue to work with our educational partners, we ensure success for local industry in training and retaining highly skilled professionals for the jobs in our community.”
- Mayor Jeff Jordan, Town of Grimsby

Gabe and Joey, co-op students in the Manufacturing Engineering Technician – Automation (Industrial Mechanic Millwright) program, spend their workdays at Ferrero Canada Ltd. helping to install, maintain and troubleshoot complex manufacturing equipment.

Their work ensures that those iconic hazelnut chocolates and other popular products, such as Tic Tacs and Nutella, move safely and efficiently off the production line. It’s also a hands-on example of how industry-led learning at Mohawk College gives students real-world experience with high-calibre employers.

“Everyone knows what a Ferrero Rocher is, and I’ve participated in maintaining those machines that make those products,” says Gabe. “To be able to say I work at Ferrero, I think that’s definitely something to be proud of.”

Nearly three years ago, Mohawk College and Ferrero Canada Ltd. began working together to prepare the next generation of millwrights for careers in industrial mechanical systems. Through co-op placements and Ferrero’s role on the program’s advisory committee, students gain experience, and the company helps shape the curriculum to match evolving industry needs.

Since the partnership began, Ferrero has already hired two Mohawk College Industrial Mechanic Millwright graduates, reinforcing the program’s impact on the manufacturer’s expanding talent pipeline.

Daryl is a supervisor whose been with the company for 10 years. He’s worked with various co-op students throughout his tenure. A Mohawk College alumnus himself, Daryl says students from the college arrive job-ready.

“They come into the plant with technical skills,” he says. “They already know the safety procedures, which is a big thing at Ferrero. They also have technical skills, and even while we’re troubleshooting, they’ll make suggestions right off the bat.”

Read the full story on the Mohawk College blog.

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The loss of a loved one is a deeply personal experience, and returning to work afterward can look different for everyone. Some employees may find comfort in reconnecting with their workplace routine, while others may need additional time and flexibility as they navigate their grief.

Creating a supportive workplace starts with compassion, understanding, and respect for each person’s experience.

How You Can Support a Coworker

Small gestures can have a meaningful impact:

• Acknowledge their loss. A simple message such as “I’m thinking of you” or “I’m glad you’re back” can help someone feel supported.
• Respect individual needs. Everyone grieves differently. Some people may want to talk about their loss, while others may prefer privacy.
• Be patient and understanding. Grief can affect concentration, energy levels, and emotions. Offering flexibility and kindness can help during the transition back to work.
• Continue including them. Invite them into conversations and workplace activities while allowing them space when needed.

Creating a Compassionate Workplace

We all play a role in creating a workplace where employees feel supported during difficult times. A little kindness, empathy, and understanding can make a significant difference for someone returning after a loss.

Additional Resources

For more information on supporting yourself and others through grief, visit the Working at Mohawk session “Returning to Work After a Loss: When a Coworker Loses a Loved One".

As part of the Banner Business Transformation (BBT) program, the Banner Student workstream is undertaking a significant modernization of academic scheduling processes across the college.

What’s changing?

This initiative will replace the legacy SUMMIT system currently used by Academic teams for scheduling and workload planning transitioning these activities to Infosilem ACADEMIC. We’re also upgrading systems used in the Registrar’s Office (EXAM and CAMPUS) to the same cloud environment, helping information flow between scheduling, exams, and space planning.

Being implemented in preparation for the Fall 2027 academic cycle, the new Infosilem solutions will bring Academic teams and the Registrar’s Office scheduling team together on a single integrated platform, creating a more collaborative, efficient, and data-informed approach to scheduling and planning.

To help introduce this important project, a new video has been developed that provides an overview of the initiative, its objectives, and the future-state benefits for the college community. Whether you're directly involved in scheduling or simply interested in learning more about this important BBT initiative, we encourage you to take a few minutes to watch and explore how the Infosilem product suite will support operational excellence and enhance the scheduling experience across the institution.

Watch the video: Infosilem Academic Scheduling Modernization Overview

What to expect

As implementation progresses, affected employees will be engaged in advance of any changes. Training, support resources, and readiness activities will be provided to impacted user groups to help ensure a smooth transition.

Learn more

• Visit the Infosilem Academic Scheduling Modernization webpage.
• Questions or feedback? Refer to the FAQs and contacts listed on the webpage.

We are excited to advance this important initiative and the opportunities it will create for the future of academic scheduling at the college.

This past spring, recent Mohawk College Architectural Technology co-op graduate, Omar Ashkar received the Intern Excellence Award 2025 for the Greater Toronto Area at Pomerleau’s annual Excellence Celebration. Omar completed two co-op terms at Pomerleau and has since accepted a full-time position with the company.

Pomerleau is one of Canada’s largest construction companies, specializing in building, infrastructure, and civil engineering projects across the country. The organization is involved in major and complex projects such as hospitals, transit systems, wastewater treatment plants, and renewable energy facilities, often involving innovative and sustainable construction practices.

Each year, Pomerleau celebrates the contribution of its interns through the Excellence program. This initiative expresses appreciation for students who completed their internships and recognizes the outstanding performance of those who stood out by awarding them one of the 2025 Excellence scholarships.

Omar was one of eleven interns to receive the award out of 366 interns eligible. Pomerleau recognizes the talent, effort, and achievement of its top interns through a nomination and scholarship program. Each year, the management of each office nominates the most outstanding interns in each of the firm’s main divisions. The winners are chosen from across Canada and invited to the Excellence Celebration to be honoured and receive a $2,500 scholarship.

“Receiving the Toronto Intern Excellence Award means a lot to me. My time at Mohawk and my co-op with Pomerleau helped shape my confidence, skills, and passion for the building industry. I’m grateful for the support and opportunities that made this achievement possible,” says Omar, now working as a Project Coordinator at Pomerleau Construction.

Omar’s achievement sets an inspiring example of what dedication and passion can achieve. This recognition is more than just an award; it reflects the value of hands-on learning and the impact students can make when given the opportunity.

Straight out of Grade 12, Daniella enrolled in the Quality Engineering Technician – Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE) program at Mohawk College.

While the course topics initially felt unfamiliar, she found herself in an environment that challenged her to grow. Surrounded by older peers with trade experience and navigating a program that leaned on verbal instruction, Daniella, a visual learner, developed an enterprising mindset to find her footing.

Determined to move forward with her education, Daniella pushed herself to speak up, ask questions and stay engaged, even when it felt uncomfortable.

In a program where she was one of just three women, that meant learning to advocate for herself and take initiative to get the most out of the experience. Along the way, she’s discovered that the community, regardless of gender, can be supportive when she reaches out.

“It’s such a small group compared to the engineering classes, for example, which are a lot bigger,” she says. “I feel like you get a lot more comfortable with one another and I don't feel nervous to ask questions. Everyone’s really nice and we all kind of just mesh well as a group.”

Read Daniella's full story on the Mohawk College blog. 

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International Self-Care Day was first celebrated in 2011 when it was established by the UK-based organization, International Self-Care Foundation (ISF). With the important theme of encouraging everyone to be attentive to taking care of themselves, the day has been observed each year since its foundation more than a decade ago.

How to Celebrate International Self-Care Day

Those who are considering ways to celebrate International Self Care Day may be interested in coming up with their own creative ideas, or engaging in some of these:

Practice Self-Care

Of course, the first thing to do on International Self-Care Day is to engage in taking care of oneself!

The way this looks can change based on the individual, but it can include beginning practices and habits such as good sleep hygiene, eating a healthy diet, adding movement into each day, setting boundaries and more. Self-care does not have to be financially costly or even require a great deal of time. It just means making plans to prioritize health and well-being, whether physically, emotionally, mentally or spiritually.

Remember and Share Some Benefits of Self-Care

One of the ways that it can be useful to celebrate International Self-Care Day might be to read and share some reminders about why it is important to take care of oneself. Check out some of these benefits of self-care for overall health:

• Self-care can improve physical health
• Self-care may reduce stress & anxiety and protect mental health
• Self-care can promote better relationships with family, friends, coworkers and more
• Self-care may increase confidence, productivity and happiness

Those who have friends, family members or coworkers who seem like they have unhealthy habits or are on the edge of burnout may want to take some time on this day to encourage them to consider ways that they can take care of themselves, too.

International Self-Care Day can be used as a springboard for launching a number of healthy self-care practices that can bring more balance, calm and peace to life.

In this article, we will look at what an airbag system is, what is required for it to work correctly, and the dangers it poses if misused.  

People often don’t understand that a safety system can cause more harm than good if used improperly. I see it all the time. This is why I want to pass on the information to keep as many people safe as possible. 

The concept of airbags for driver/passenger safety has been around for a long, long time. The idea started back in the 1950’s, and one of the first pilot programs was introduced in the early 1970’s, but it didn’t take off for various reasons. They became common in the 1990’s and took off from there.  

There are 2 established names for airbag systems, SIR (Supplemental Inflatable Restraints) and SRS (Supplemental Restraint System), both SIR and SRS are interchangeable and car makers may use either name. Sitting in the driver’s seat of a vehicle, you will see the lettering on your steering wheel stating SRS or Airbag. It’s worth noting that if you look around your vehicle you will see the letters SRS all over your vehicle—steering wheel, passenger side dash, above you head, near the door pillar, sometimes even in your seat! 

Anywhere you see the SRS logo there is an airbag behind that logo. Modern vehicles have anywhere from 6 to 16 airbags. 

The purpose of an SIR system is to inflate rapidly (small explosive charge fills the airbag in 1/20^th of a second, and at approx. 300+ km/h) during a crash event to protect occupants from hitting hard objects inside the vehicle, preventing serious injury.  

For the airbag system to work as intended, there are 2 key things that must be done: 

1. Seatbelt position: Your seatbelt MUST be on and secured properly to ‘hold you’ in the correct spot for the SRS system to work effectively. If you don’t wear your seatbelt, you are asking for serious bodily harm. It must be worn across your waist or hips, not your stomach. In a vehicle accident, you could risk internal bleeding/organ damage if the lap belt is in the wrong spot. Also, generally sit as far away from the steering wheel as possible while still in full control. Most vehicles recognize how close you are to the airbag and will change deployment settings to reduce injury, but there are limits.
2. Headrest position: Often a critically overlooked section of vehicle safety, the headrest should be positioned so the middle of the headrest contacts the middle of the back of your head. When you are in an accident, your body will slow down dramatically against the seat belt and SIR system, then ‘whiplash’ backwards against your seat with a substantial force. If the headrest is positioned properly your head will hit the softer headrest and stop the movement, if the headrest is too low, the seat will act as an pivot point and your head will not be restrained and will continue to move backwards and hyperextend causing injury to neck muscles, disks, and ligaments, resulting in severe pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness and possible spine damage, or worse. ADJUST your headrest, it’s not worth a potential lifetime of pain. (Whiplash Injury) 

When will the airbags go off or be deployed?  

The answer, unfortunately, isn’t that simple, a head-on collision with a wall and a head-on collision with a vehicle are 2 different things; some vehicles, as low as 30km/h, could be enough force to trip the crash sensors to deploy. Side impact systems are also a little different.   

Just know that the manufacturer has performed a lot of  research and development testing to determine when SIR are required to deploy. 

Why is it important to keep your feet off the dashboard? 

Often, driving in the summer, I see passengers in the front seat of a vehicle with their legs or feet up on the dashboard, which can be a critical, life-altering mistake.  

If a passenger’s feet are on the dash when airbags deploy the force can significantly injure the person’s hips, causing full dislocation or multiple broken bones. Accidents happen in a split second; you cannot predict when they will occur, and you won’t have time to move your legs out of the way.  

A slogan to help you remember, “You can’t predict a crash… keep your feet off the dash.”  

Does my car have a “black box”?  

People are often surprised to learn that their car has a ‘black box’ or event recorder, the black box is a device like in aircraft that records major sensors to help figure out what happened or caused the crash.  

In the case of SRS deployment, the black box records information relevant to the crash, while the information is somewhat confidential, it is primarily to protect the manufacturer from legal entanglements. What I can disclose is information such as vehicle speed, seatbelt on/off, brake pedal pressed and a whole lot more is collected and can be used to recreate an accident, which is quite rare. It’s worth noting that this device only records vehicle accident data and cannot identify any personal information about the driver. 

So, the main takeaway here is not to be scared of the SIR system; it is designed to protect you, but rather respect the system, and it will keep you safe.  

BONUS SAFETY TIP: Be sure to remove all objects sitting on the rear window shelf. In a car accident, those items become projectiles. Imagine you are traveling at 100 Km/h and you hit something, you will stop instantly, but the objects around you that are not restrained keep going, imagine being hit on the back of the head with that Kleenex box at 100Km/h! 

Have an automotive topic or question you'd like to see covered in another episode of Automotive Minute? Reach out to bob.brown@mohawkcollege.ca

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The visit took place during Game On! Week, where campers ages 4 – 13 took part in a variety of sports, cooperative games, and friendly challenges. The high-energy week helped campers stay active, make new friends, and enjoy the joy of play in a supportive camp environment.

Through Mohawk College’s partnership with Hamilton Sports Group as the Official Post-Secondary Education Partner, the campers had the chance to learn from offensive linemen Quinton Barrow (#59) and Liam Dobson (#66), including activities focused on running and passing.

Community programming plays a key role in the partnership with Hamilton Sports Group, which began earlier this year. At the centre of the partnership is student development, with a focus on experiential learning and industry access. Mohawk College students gain exposure to multiple areas of Hamilton Sports Group through mentorship opportunities, including gameday job shadowing and in-office experiences across the organization.

Take advantage of Mohawk College's partnership with Hamilton Sports Group! 

As part of the partnership, the Mohawk College community has access to discounted tickets to select Hamilton Tiger-Cats and Forge FC home games this season (excluding the Labour Day Classic). 

Whether you're a sports fan or just looking for a fun outing with family and friends, it's a great opportunity to enjoy live, local sports at a reduced price.

Get your tickets and cheer on Hamilton's hometown teams!

Forge FC: https://am.ticketmaster.com/forge/promotional-page?id=MjUyMQ==
Tiger-Cats: https://am.ticketmaster.com/hamilton/promotional-page?id=OTU1

Summer is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the sunshine, but it is important to protect yourself from harmful UV rays. Whether you are heading to the beach, working outdoors or relaxing in the backyard, these simple sun safety practices can help keep your skin and eyes protected.

• Use the Right Sunscreen: Opt for a broad-spectrum, water-resistant lotion or cream (avoid aerosol sprays if possible for even coverage) with an SPF of at least 30. Apply about one ounce (a shot glass full) to cover all exposed skin.
• Reapply Frequently: Sunscreen rubs, sweats, or washes off. Reapply every two hours, and even more frequently if you are swimming or sweating.
• Cover Up: Wear light-colored, loose-fitting, and tightly woven clothing. For maximum protection, check for clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) rating.
• Protect Your Eyes: Ultraviolet radiation can cause eye damage. Wear close-fitting, wraparound sunglasses that block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays.
• Seek Shade: Avoid direct sunlight during the peak UV hours. Look for natural shade under trees or set up a canopy or umbrella. Keep in mind that UV rays can still reflect off surfaces like sand, water, and concrete.

Watch Alexander Kittelsen's video on YouTube.

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See recent hires and new positions for June 2026. 

New Full-time Hires

• Dion Fawcett - Case Manager (Student Rights and Responsibilities)
• Ronald Frizell - Cabling & Networking Technician (IT Infrastructure)
• Sandy Zhou - Paralegal (Legal and Risk Management)
• Raquel Gomez - Privacy & Records Management Officer (General Counsel)
• Erin Bryer - Manager, Student Success & Engagement (Student Engagement)
• Geoffrey Benoit - Recreation Fitness Sports Clinic Coordinator (Athletics)
• Nikola Rajic - Building Services Technician (Building, Grounds & Housekeeping)
• Jasmine Knox Hunter - Theatre Operations Supervisor (Conference Services)

Contract

• Gabriel Margonato - Corporate Reporting Analyst (BBT)
• Akash Kukadia - Corporate Reporting Analyst (BBT)
• Wilson Erique - Solutions Architect (Enterprise Architecture)

New Positions

• Terry Walker - Building Services Technician (Building, Grounds & Housekeeping)
• Lindsay Anderson - Dean, School of Nursing
• Makyla Callender-Jones - Program Support and Scheduling Assistant (Allied Health)

Students in the Pharmacy Technician program recently participated in a simulation exercise meant to build understanding and empathy for the physical and cognitive effects of aging. The exercise was held in collaboration with the Centre for Healthcare Simulation and Research (CHSR), located at the Institute for Applied Health Sciences (IAHS) campus.

As part of their scope of practice, pharmacy technicians play an important role in educating and training patients on the proper use of a variety of medication administration devices, including glucometers, eye drops and inhalers.

During this simulation, students experienced the effects of aging by wearing vision-impairing goggles and wrist weights designed to simulate reduced visual acuity, decreased strength, and diminished dexterity. These aspects of the aging simulation provided valuable insight into the barriers that many older adults face when managing their medications independently.

Through the simulation, students recognized the importance of patience, clear communication, and individualized patient counselling. The experience increased their awareness of factors that can impact medication adherence and reinforced the need to consider age-related physical limitations when providing patient care and education.

Overall, students found the simulation to be highly beneficial, as it strengthened both their technical skills in medication administration and their ability to provide empathetic, patient-centred support to older adults. The activity enhanced their understanding of the practical challenges patients may encounter and better prepared them for future pharmacy practice.

Introducing Updated Program Code Structure

The Banner Business Transformation (BBT) program is introducing an updated program code structure to improve how program information is managed across our systems and tools.

Beginning with the Fall 2027 applicant cycle, all new student records will use the updated program codes in Banner SaaS.

While this change may take some time to get used to, it is an important step in strengthening our data and enabling key tools like Degreeworks and Smart Plan—with more enhancements on the BBT roadmap.

What’s changing

Program codes have been restructured to align with Banner best practices and support greater consistency, reporting, and system integration.

Watch a short overview video and explore the new program code structure on the Program Codes Banner SaaS webpage.

What this means for you

• When communicating with students or the public, use program names/titles as the primary reference. Program codes may be used where relevant, depending on the audience and context.
• When you need program codes for system use (e.g. data entry or reporting), you can access them through the Program Code Reference File
• If you manage materials or content, review and update any documents, forms, webpages, or resources that reference program codes

What you need to do

• Awareness: Understand the change and where to find program codes
• If applicable: Proactively update materials that include program codes in advance of Fall 2027
• If you use reporting or systems: Familiarize yourself with the new structure using the reference file

Why this change matters

This update supports:

• Improved data accuracy and consistency
• More effective reporting and insights
• Integration with tools like Degreeworks and Smart Plan
• A foundation for future BBT enhancements

Learn more

• Program Codes Banner SaaS – Detailed information, examples and video
• Program Code Reference File - Legacy Banner to Banner SaaS code comparison. The file will be updated as new programs are approved and as additional program areas are brought into Banner SaaS.

Questions or feedback? A feedback survey is available on the Program Codes Banner SaaS page.

Explore mohawkcollege.ca/bbt to learn more about the BBT program.

The Joyce Centre for Partnership & Innovation has once again earned Zero Carbon Building - Performance certification from the Canada Green Building Council. The recertification confirms that the building continues to operate as designed, using geothermal energy, rooftop solar panels, efficient design and an all-electric system to minimize greenhouse gas emissions.   

More importantly, the Joyce Centre continues to serve as a living laboratory for learning. Through class tours and campus events, students, employees and community visitors can see climate action in practice and learn how low-carbon buildings support a more sustainable future.   

The building recently served as a venue for the 2026 PIVOT Conference, bringing together industry and sustainability professionals, educators and students to explore climate solutions and resilience.   

As Mohawk College advances its Climate Action Plan, the Joyce Centre remains an important demonstrative site, helping students and visitors make concrete connections to sustainability initiatives across campus. While the Joyce Centre was purpose-built as a high-performance building, the college's greatest opportunity for reducing emissions lies in modernizing its existing campus infrastructure, work that is already well underway.  

The ongoing success of the Joyce Centre for Partnership and Innovation is the direct result of the expertise, dedication, and day-to-day efforts of the college's Facility Services Operations team. Their work ensures the building continues to operate at peak efficiency year after year. 

Watch a video tour of The Joyce Centre's many features.  

Learn more about the Zero Carbon Building Standards.  

Faculty interested in incorporating sustainability, climate action or green building concepts into their courses are encouraged to book a presentation or tour through the Sustainability Office. Book a tour now or contact the Sustainability Office to learn more about tour and presentation options. 

With another Convocation season behind us, let's look back on an incredible week of joy on stage and behind the scenes. Hear from graduates on their special day as they head off into the next chapter of their lives.

Water competency is a way of improving water safety for yourself and those around you through avoiding common dangers, developing fundamental water safety skills to make you safer in and around the water, and knowing how to prevent and respond to drowning emergencies.

Water Smarts

Take these precautions when you’re around water:

• Never swim alone: Always have a buddy, whether in a pool, lake, or river.
• Active supervision: Assign a dedicated "water watcher" to constantly monitor children without distractions (no phones or reading).
• Lifejackets: Use approved lifejackets or personal flotation devices (PFDs) for weak swimmers. Do not rely on inflatable air-filled toys (like water wings), which can provide a false sense of security.

For backyard pools:

• Install a four-sided fence: Ensure the pool is enclosed by a fence at least 4 feet high.
  • For above-ground pools, remove the ladder or steps entirely whenever the pool is not in use.
• Self-closing/latching gates: Gates should open outward, be self-closing, and have a lock or latch placed beyond a child's reach.
• Remove hazards: Keep toys, patio furniture, and debris away from the pool edge so children cannot climb over the fence.

Other Precautions:

• First Aid and CPR: Learn basic lifesaving skills by taking certified courses.
• Clear emergency plan: Have a working phone and a list of emergency numbers displayed close to the pool.
• Diving: Never dive into shallow or unknown water. The safe depth for diving is typically at least twice your height.
• Avoid alcohol: Do not mix drugs or alcohol with swimming or boating.
• Follow posted rules: Always obey lifeguards, and look out for water conditions like currents, undertows, or changing weather.

President Paul Armstrong invites you to help launch the new academic year at the President’s Kick-off.

This event will be the perfect opportunity to connect, engage, and celebrate with colleagues and friends from across the college.

We're excited to announce our keynote speaker: 
Anthony Morgan 
Host, The Nature of Things | Leading Collaboration Expert

Be inspired by Anthony's insights on collaboration, innovation, and building strong connections as we come together to kick off the year.

Thursday, September 3, 2026
Mohawk College, Fennell Campus
McIntyre Performing Arts Centre
135 Fennell Ave West
Hamilton, ON

Doors Open: 9 am 
Official Greetings: 9:30 am 
Reception to follow in the C-Wing hallway.

RSVP today!

For questions, please contact mohawk.events@mohawkcollege.ca

Watch the President's Kick-Off Livestream

Can't make the event in person? Watch the livestream on September 3. 

We invite you to join us for an opportunity to learn, reflect, and engage in honest dialogue, as we explore the topic of making a difference in messy times with internationally renowned educator, Irshad Manji.

Moral Courage: Achieving Unity Without Uniformity

Mohawk College, Fennell Campus

Tuesday, October 13 

For Mohawk College Employees, Students & Community members.

Panel Discussion:

Profiles in Change Making

3:00 – 5:00 pm 

Moderated by: Irshad Manji featuring a panel of local advocates
(Live stream available)

Keynote Address: 

Moral Courage for Messy Times

6:30 – 8:00 pm 

Keynote Speaker: Irshad Manji

Amid all the noise of our culture, can we discuss urgent yet sensitive issues without becoming offended at every turn? Irshad Manji believes so. Better still, she teaches us how. You will leave with practical skills for turning different, even clashing, opinions into opportunities for personal and social health. Here's to hearing each other — and healing ourselves.

Additional sessions available October 13 & 14 exclusively for Mohawk College employees

Topics include:

• Examining the manosphere
• Building connections in polarized conversations
• Restorative justice practices for the college classroom
• Moral courage in the digital age
• Changing conceptions of free speech

Registration closes October 2. Register today!

This event is complimentary. Spots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Learn practical tools for engaging in thoughtful communication across differences, where the diversity of views can be honoured — without the fear and anxiety that generate division.

Questions? Please contact mohawk.events@mohawkcollege.ca.

Irshad Manji Bio:

Irshad is the founder of Moral Courage College, helping people around the world turn conflict into collaboration. A longtime leadership professor at New York University, she now teaches with the University of Oxford’s Initiative for Global Ethics and Human Rights. Named a recipient of Oprah’s “Chutzpah Award”, Irshad is also a Globe and Mail #1 bestselling author.

Her book ‘Don’t Label Me’ offers practical wisdom for navigating disagreement with integrity and curiosity, earning praise from Chris Rock as “genius”. Her forthcoming book, 'Moral Courage,' deepens this work for an even messier world.

From her early life as a refugee from Uganda to her upbringing in Vancouver and her current home in New York City, Irshad brings a profoundly human, global perspective to leadership.

Mohawk College faculty member Karen Lawrence will have her eco-conscious, pollinator-friendly garden on display this summer at three garden tour events taking place in the city. 

All are invited to explore Karen’s Dundas-based garden as part of these upcoming events: 

FREE

Garden Journeys Open Days (August 8 – 9, 14 – 15)

Karen has participated in this annual event for the past four years. It’s a great way to see how community members are contributing to the City of Hamilton’s Biodiversity Action Plan.

PAID

Blooms for Africa (July 10 – 11)

Karen’s garden is among 13 gardens hosting artists and live music each night. If you would like to learn more, the event received coverage in the Hamilton Spectator on June 6. 

Carnegie Secret Garden Tour (September 10)

This annual event celebrates the beauty and creativity of local gardens while raising funds to support the Gallery’s exhibitions and programs. The tour is known for its wonderful mix of garden styles and sizes — from thoughtfully designed landscapes and lush cottage gardens to unique urban spaces.

New Bulletin Just Released! 

Catch up on the latest Banner Transformation news and developments in our monthly Bulletin. Explore mohawkcollege.ca/bbt to read more. Find the latest edition of the BBT Bulletin under News & Announcements. 

This month’s newsletter includes:

• Release 1 has moved into the testing phase, with a spotlight on Quality Assurance activities supporting system readiness.
• An overview of the Banner SaaS environment and how key systems, integrations, and services work together.
• Resources and updates related to program code changes

Mohawk College recently earned the Verified Employee Listening badge from McLean & Company, a leading HR research and advisory firm.  

This designation recognizes organizations that demonstrate a commitment to understanding the employee experience through structured, research-backed employee listening practices. By deploying an employee engagement pulse survey delivered by McLean & Company this past winter, Mohawk College has taken a meaningful step toward gathering actionable feedback and strengthening its people strategy.  

Furthermore, the feedback obtained through employee focus groups held in June combined with the results of the employee engagement survey will help to inform the new employee engagement strategy that will launch this fall.   

"Receiving the Employee Listening badge is a meaningful recognition of the work that is being done to ensure every employee has a voice,” says Amanda Pike, Director, People, Organizational Development & Change. “By listening, learning and responding, we are creating a more engaged environment where Mohawk College employees can thrive and continue doing great work for our students and the community.”  

The McLean & Company Verified Employee Listening badge is part of McLean & Company’s Awards & Recognition program, which celebrates organizations that are measuring what matters and building stronger, more responsive workplaces.  

To learn more about the program, visit www.hr.mcleanco.com/awards-and-recognition-program  

About McLean & Company  

McLean & Company pairs evidence-based research and immediately applicable tools with deep HR expertise to position organizations to meet today’s needs and prepare for the future. The global HR research and advisory firm’s member organizations enjoy comprehensive resources, full-service diagnostics, workshops, action plans, and advisory services for all levels of HR professionals, from executive leadership and HR leaders to HR team members, that help shape workplaces where everyone thrives. 

Faculty and staff emphasized the value of using simulation to create interactive experiences that respond to student needs. SimCon helps students build confidence and competence before applying their learning in real healthcare settings. 

Hear more from attendees and organizers of SimCon Spring 2026. 

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Students of the Mohawk College Advertising and Communications Management program will soon see their award-winning work in the pages of notable industry magazine, Applied Arts.   

The annual awards give talented students an advantage in the competitive advertising field by featuring their work in a well-regarded industry magazine.   

Applied Arts describes the contest as a “fast-track to landing your first job.” Winning an Applied Arts Award is an excellent resume boost for these exceptionally talented students.   

The contest is open to current secondary, post-secondary, and graduate students studying graphic design, creative advertising, photography, illustration, digital, motion or gaming programs from the US, Canada and Europe. Any work created at any time during a student’s academic creative program is eligible.  

“The industry exposure is fantastic,” says Professor Rafael Ferreira.  

And what it means to the students to win an award of this calibre can be summed up by the excitement of one of the winners. "I screamed so loud in the car when I got the email that I scared my mom," says Kambria Johnson.  

See the Mohawk College winners' work: 

• Arby's Nickelback – Macey Miller & Stephanie Hutchinson-Rodgers
• Flo Period Power Up – Macey Miller & Stephanie Hutchinson-Rodgers
• Tilt Arcade Bar – Macey Miller & Stephanie Hutchinson-Rodgers
• Taino – Kambria Johnson
• Kewpie Blurring Type – Shane Joslin & Alex Ryzhkova
• Gemini Learning Cycles – Shane Joslin, Liv Ellis & Kambria Johnson  
• Lowes 'Highs and Lows' - Jason Flores and Julianne Tessoro 

Congratulations to these talented students on this incredible achievement. Watch for the print magazine featuring their award-winning submissions on bookstore shelves in the coming months.  

*Note: Originally, this story indicated that six awards were won by Mohawk College students. A seventh was confirmed after the story was published and has since been updated. 

Forty-five Mohawk Mountaineers student-athletes have been named 2025-26 Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) All-Academic Award recipients.

The OCAA announced last week that 1,121 student-athletes from 26 member institutions across Ontario earned the honour. The award recognizes student-athletes who achieve honours-level academic standing at their respective colleges.
 
Mohawk's 45 recipients rank fourth-most in the college's history. The program record is 52 recipients, achieved on four occasions, most recently during the 2021-22 academic year.
 
The full list of Mohawk's 2025-26 OCAA All-Academic Award recipients is below:
 
Maddie Anderson | Women's Basketball
Kendra Baker | Women's Volleyball
Megan Battersby | Women's Volleyball
Elise Bolger | Women's Cross Country
Noah Brennan | Men's Curling
Claudia Calix | Women's Soccer
Addison Cann | Women's Cross Country
Zoe Crookham | Women's Cross Country
Laila Davis | Women's Basketball
Micah Dijkema | Men's Volleyball
Marko Dosen | Men's Basketball
Sydney Drain | Women's Basketball
Keon Elkie | Men's Volleyball
Marco Ferrusi | Men's Soccer
Megan Fox | Women's Basketball
Thomas Giammichele | Men's Cross Country
Alyssa Glasbergen | Women's Soccer
Jenna Griffin | Women's Basketball
Marthus Guedes | Men's Volleyball
Emma Henriques | Women's Soccer
Tahlia Henry | Women's Softball/Cross Country
Christian Jarosz | Men's Cross Country
Scott Jenkins | Men's Basketball
Valerie Laroche | Women's Soccer
Luna Lio | Women's Soccer
Zoey Lorentz | Women's Softball
Maggie Lupton | Women's Softball
Jazlynne Martin | Women's Softball
Avery McConkey | Women's Volleyball
Grace McLellan | Women's Soccer
Connor Miller | Men's Soccer
Lily Padoin Lee | Women's Curling
Ashka Pieris-Stevens | Women's Softball
Jaiden Rattray | Women's Volleyball
Emidio Refosco | Men's Soccer
Kate Ross | Women's Basketball
Luc Sabatino | Men's Soccer
Emily Schwarz | Women's Soccer
Joanna Smith | Women's Basketball
Vanessa Soffee | Women's Basketball
Sofia Spoljar | Women's Volleyball
Ben Temple | Men's Soccer
Abby Trafford | Women's Basketball
Regan Vanderkruk | Women's Soccer
Tiffany Williams | Women's Basketball

Yoga originated in ancient India over 5,000 years ago. Rooted in the Sanskrit word yuj—meaning "to unite" or "to yoke"—it began as a spiritual and meditative discipline aimed at connecting the individual consciousness with the universal. Over the millennia, the practice evolved through several distinct phases, eventually transforming into the global fitness and wellness phenomenon practiced today.

1. Yoga improves strength, balance and flexibility.

Slow movements and deep breathing increase blood flow and warm up muscles, while holding a pose can build strength. 

2. Yoga can help with back pain relief.

Yoga is as good as basic stretching for easing pain and improving mobility in people with lower back pain. Some physicians recommend yoga as a first-line treatment for chronic low back pain. 

3. Yoga can ease arthritis symptoms.

Gentle yoga has been shown to ease some of the discomfort of tender, swollen joints for people with arthritis.

4. Yoga benefits heart health.

Regular yoga practice may reduce levels of stress and body-wide inflammation, contributing to a healthier heart. Several of the factors contributing to heart disease, including high blood pressure and excess weight, can also be addressed through yoga.

5. Yoga relaxes you to help you sleep better.

Research shows that a consistent bedtime yoga routine can help you get in the right mindset and prepare your body to fall asleep and stay asleep.

6. Yoga can mean more energy and brighter moods.

You may feel increased mental and physical energy, a boost in alertness and enthusiasm, and fewer negative feelings after getting into a routine of practicing yoga.

7. Yoga helps you manage stress. 

According to the National Institutes of Health, scientific evidence shows that yoga supports stress management, mental health, mindfulness, healthy eating, weight loss and quality sleep.

8. Yoga connects you with a supportive community. 

Participating in yoga classes can ease loneliness and provide an environment for group healing and support. Even during one-on-one sessions loneliness is reduced as one is acknowledged as a unique individual, being listened to and participating in the creation of a personalized yoga plan.

Mohawk College is thrilled to partner with the University of Windsor to deliver a high-demand academic pathway for degree completion. Occupational Therapist Assistant/Physiotherapist Assistant (OTA/PTA) graduates can transition into the undergraduate degree in Kinesiology and Health Studies at the University of Windsor, giving them a strong opportunity to strengthen and expand their learning in Health Sciences.

Mohawk College’s OTA/PTA program uses an inter‑professional teaching model, with occupational therapy (OT) and physiotherapy (PT) faculty working alongside industry experts to deliver collaborative instruction. Students learn through a blend of virtual classrooms, hands‑on laboratory experiences, and clinical fieldwork placements. 

“Throughout the program, our students participate in skills labs in each discipline-specific area, supported by lab instructors who are practicing clinicians bringing current and best practices to our skills labs. Experiential learning is an integral part of the curriculum delivery,” says Patricia Illman, Program Coordinator.

Students may also engage with Mohawk College’s Center for Healthcare Simulation and Research (CHSR), participating in advanced simulation experiences that incorporate Artificial Intelligence (AI), Virtual Reality (VR), and interactions with highly trained simulated patients. Additionally, organized field trips to a variety of clinical sites offer OTA/PTA learners valuable real‑world context, deepening their understanding of professional environments and expectations.

Mohawk College OTA/PTA program is accredited by the Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant Education Accreditation Program (OTA & PTA EAP) in collaboration with Physiotherapy Education Accreditation Canada (PEAC) and the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT). The Accreditation was awarded to the program on April 30, 2025 for the period until April 30, 2031.

For more information on this pathway please visit the OTA/PTA program page.