For more than four decades at Brock University, and three with the Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute (CCOVI), Manager of Professional Studies and Outreach Barbara Tatarnic has shaped programs, built relationships and supported the growth of a significant Canadian industry.

“I started at Brock in the Politics department and thirteen years into my career at the University I learned about plans for a new area connected to the grape and wine industry,” she says. “I remember thinking, ‘Wow, that’s really something special.’”

In CCOVI’s early years, Tatarnic was the sole team member responsible for continuing education and outreach. She played a key role in advancing professional and continuing studies programming and infrastructure at both CCOVI and Brock, initiated the University’s first online continuing education courses and helped introduce its first micro-credential offerings.

Under her leadership, non-credit wine tasting courses were included in the Oenology and Viticulture (OEVI) undergraduate program, and the institute became an accredited program provider of the Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) and the Cider Institute of North America’s cider and perry programs.

Tatarnic feels fortunate to have helped lay a successful foundation for CCOVI, open new doors, create opportunities and watch the vision for the Institute come to life.

“Through the evolution of CCOVI, the focus of our team has always been on advancing best practices and fostering a strong, sustainable future for both the University and the industry,” she continues.

Beyond the Brock community, Tatarnic has been a champion of CCOVI within the local and Canadian grape and wine industries through successful engagement events, including the Experts Tasting, Triggs International Premium Vinifera Lecture Series, Cuvée, Fizz Club and several international academic conferences, such as the prestigious International Cool Climate Wine Symposium.

“I’ve had the opportunity to connect with so many talented and inspiring people who instilled confidence in me and demonstrated the power of working together,” she says. “In Brock and CCOVI, I’ve always felt like I found my place — ready to do whatever I could to help our grape and wine industry, and of course in turn that helps Brock.”

Tatarnic is a respected and recognized specialist who holds a WSET Level 3 Wine and Spirit Certification, is a VQA Promoter in Education and a fellow with the Ontario Hostelry Institute, an organization dedicated to recognizing top hospitality industry achievers whose commitment enhances the image of Ontario.

In recognition of her leadership and contributions to professional and continuing studies, the Canadian Association for University Continuing Education honoured Tatarnic with its Outstanding Service Award. Brock also celebrated her exemplary service with the President’s Distinguished Staff Service Award for Outstanding Contributions.

Director of Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute and Professor of Biological Sciences Debbie Inglis says that, in addition to the well-deserved accolades, it’s Tatarnic’s ability to connect, support and forge strong relationships that has earned her the title of “the heart and soul” of CCOVI.

“Whether it’s with students, staff or industry partners, Barb has the ability to connect with people in a way that’s meaningful. She’s always gone above and beyond to build those long-lasting relationships over the 30 years she’s been with CCOVI,” says Inglis. “Her dedication, enthusiasm and passion have always brought out the best in everyone around her.”

Inglis says Tatarnic has created a proud legacy, filled with immense impact, and that the CCOVI team is thankful for her leadership, innovation and inspiration.

“The grape and wine industry has been a lifelong passion, and the relationships I’ve built over the years will always mean so much to me and always be part of who I am. But I’m equally excited for what comes next,” says Tatarnic. “Family has always been at the heart of everything I do and I’m looking forward to spending time with my three beautiful grandchildren and embracing this next chapter together. For now, I want to take a moment to breathe, enjoy the journey and discover what adventures lie ahead.”