Brock graduate Mike Snow (BA ’09, MA ’10, BEd ’11) is harnessing his passion for history and education to encourage local youth to dive into the history books.

Through his role as a Cross-Curricular Consultant with the District School Board of Niagara (DSBN), Snow develops educational programming in social studies, history, geography, physical education and health curriculum support services for schools across the region.

Drawing on professional expertise gained at Brock during his undergraduate and graduate studies in History and subsequent Teacher Education degree, Snow recently organized the 2024 DSBN Niagara Heritage Fair.

Held at The Exchange in Niagara Falls on Wednesday, May 1, the event brought history to life for 100 students who showcased poster research projects covering the gamut of Canadian history, from the Avro Arrow and the invention of insulin to maple syrup, Laura Secord and residential schools.

Students presented their research to judges from various professional organizations, including Brock Associate Professor of History Tami Friedman and History Teaching Assistant Charmaine McKnight.

Friedman taught Snow during his studies at Brock and remembers how Snow’s academic and professional paths were guided by his passion for learning and ability to shift gears and try new things, citing his master’s project as an example.

Brock Associate Professor of History Tami Friedman (left) and her former student Mike Snow (BA’09, MA’10, BEd’11) at the 2023 Niagara Heritage Fair at Queenston Heights.

“What started out as research exploring U.S. presidential administrations in the context of the Vietnam War turned into a study of soldiers’ experiences in the war as a rite of passage for ‘American manhood,’” Friedman said. “In making the shift, he was compelled to learn new research techniques and explore unfamiliar terrain,”

Reflecting on her second year judging the fair, she said it was heartening to see the enthusiasm and joy Snow brought to his interactions with students.

“I know he brings that contagious excitement into the classroom, too — it’s wonderful to know Brock played a part in helping nurture that,” she said.

Collaborating with Brock on community events like the Niagara Heritage Fair holds tremendous value for students by providing an opportunity for young learners to engage with professionals currently working in the history field, Snow said.

He continues to be inspired by his own time at Brock.

“The mentorship I received as a Brock student drove me to not only pursue a career where I could engage in historical inquiry, but also encourage youth to pursue their love of history,” he said.