Aaditya Gupta

Honours Bachelor of Business Administration

Undergraduate Co-op Student of the Year Award

Aaditya Gupta is a fifth-year Honours Bachelor of Business Administration Co-op student at the Goodman School of Business. His co-op journey has included roles at Hatch and the Brock University Students’ Union, where he currently serves as Vice-President, External Affairs. In this role, he represents over 15,300 students and leads advocacy efforts with municipal, provincial, and federal leaders. 

Aaditya serves as a Steering Committee Member for the Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance, advocating for more than 160,000 undergraduate students across Ontario. He has co-authored provincial policy papers, contributed to legislative consultations, and published an article in Educated Solutions on the future of academic and workforce preparedness. 

Recognized as an Outstanding Co-op Student at Hatch and named to the Dean’s Honour List for two consecutive years, Aaditya is passionate about public policy, community impact, and strengthening experiential learning opportunities for students. 

Lauren Fleming

Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Degree in Labour Studies 

Undergraduate Co-op Student of the Year Award

Lauren Fleming is a fourth-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree in Labour Studies, two microcertificates in Human Rights at Work and Labour Law, and a Law Plus program certificate.

At Brock, Lauren has been employed in a number of roles, including as the Law Plus Assistant, the Labour Studies Student Ambassador, a Brock Ambassador, and as a Teaching Assistant. She is also a dedicated volunteer within the Brock community, serving as the Co-President of the Brock Labour Studies Student Association, the Senior Editor of the BU Law Review, a Student Accessibility Notetaker, a member of the Student Affairs Conduct Council and a member of the Brock Leaders Citizenship Society.

Outside of the classroom, Lauren completed two co-op placements in Human Resources at Niagara Parks. In 2025, she was the recipient of the Canadian Association of Work and Labour Studies Undergraduate Excellence Award as well as the Best Undergraduate Essay Award for the Department of Labour Studies. Upon completion of her degree, Lauren will be pursuing a post-graduate certificate in Human Resources Management and intends to apply to graduate school to advance her knowledge of industrial relations and progress towards a career as a Disability Management specialist.

Sahil Bhosale

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Graduate Co-op Student of the Year Award

Sahil is a results-driven Supply Chain and Procurement professional with experience across the pharmaceutical, marine, and automotive industries. He has led production scheduling, end-to-end procurement, RFx cycles, and process improvement initiatives that strengthen operational performance.

During his recent co-op at Sanofi, he achieved a 95 percent production rate by implementing a priority-based Kanban system despite significant capacity constraints. He developed short- to mid-term production schedules, coordinated MRP and maintenance planning, and partnered cross-functionally to boost batch readiness and fill rates. He also led a continuous improvement project that streamlined the change management process, reducing cycle time from 25 to 22 weeks.

Previously, Sahil managed global procurement portfolios exceeding $300M, negotiated high-value contracts, and delivered measurable cost savings. Recognized twice as “Performer of the Year,” he brings engineering training, an MBA foundation, and PMP certification to build agile, data-driven, and resilient supply chains.

Angad Katora

Ebad Khan

Owen Sartor,

Aashi Arora

Aashi is a student entrepreneur who founded Cake Is Bae during the COVID-19 pandemic while in Grade 11 as a creative outlet that quickly evolved into a cross-border small business. What began as baking for family and friends grew into a structured, home-based dessert business before she moved to Canada, where she balanced her academic responsibilities with independently building and managing the venture.

In Canada, Aashi relaunched Cake Is Bae during her second year, and it quickly became known for its cheesecakes, tiramisu, custom cakes, and handcrafted desserts. Through pop-up markets, campus-based events, and custom orders, she developed strong skills in customer service, marketing, budgeting, and operations, while maintaining consistent quality and food safety standards.

Alongside her work in Canada, she continues to support a business presence in India, allowing Cake Is Bae to expand its international reach. Managing growth across two countries has provided her with hands-on experience in international operations, cultural adaptability, and scalability—skills that directly complement her academic studies in business.

Operating in both Canada and India, Cake Is Bae offers exceptional homemade cheesecakes, tiramisu, custom cakes, and handcrafted desserts. Products are available for online ordering and at in-person markets, including the Brock LINC Holiday Vendor Market.

Anna Munezero

Jay Atul Shah

Sohaib Chilmeran Scholarship

Jay was selected as the recipient because he exemplifies all the attributes of the ideal candidate including the spirit of Surgite through his exceptional resilience as a newcomer to Canada, strong academic performance, and demonstrated commitment to equity, leadership, and community impact. He worked extremely hard to rise above significant financial and personal challenges while actively uplifting others within the Brock community and is truly a deserving candidate for this award. 

Established in 2021, “The Sohaib Chilmeran Scholarship” is to award a third year Undergraduate Co-op student who is a newcomer to Canada (immigrated to Canada in last 5 years, international student) with a minimum of 75% overall average. The purpose of the Scholarship is to recognize co-op students who are newcomers to Canada and have demonstrated the spirit of “Surgite!” to overcome life challenges. This year’s recipient, Jay Atul Shah, exemplifies that spirit in every sense. His story is one of sacrifice, discipline, and unwavering perseverance. 

Yet what truly distinguishes Jay is not only his resilience, but his commitment to lifting others as he rises. 

As a third-year Bachelor of Science student majoring in Computer Science, Jay has demonstrated exceptional resilience, leadership, and academic excellence. Arriving in Canada from India, he faced the challenges of adapting to a new country, culture, and financial realities, while overcoming feelings of isolation and building a life from the ground up.Determined to succeed without placing further financial burden on his family, he worked multiple part-time jobs, at times up to four simultaneously, while maintaining Dean’s list standing. His story is one of sacrifice, discipline, and unwavering perseverance. Yet what truly distinguishes Jay is not only his resilience, but his commitment to lifting others as he rises. 

Drawing from his own experiences as an international student from a minority group, Jay channels his challenges into advocacy and service He began volunteering as a Computer Tutor at the Niagara Learning Centre, empowering adults facing systemic barriers with essential digital skills to support their job searches and employability. He has supported neurodiverse youth through SNAP (Supporting Neurodiversity through Adaptive Programming) and represented student voices on the President’s Advisory Committee and Student Services Advisory Committee, advocating for a more equitable academic environment. The list of his volunteer efforts and achievements is too long to share.  

Jay’s journey reflects academic excellence, extraordinary perseverance, leadership, and a deep commitment to equity and inclusion. He is profoundly deserving the Sohaib Chilmeran Scholarship and embodies the spirit and purpose for which it was created.  

Lauren Fleming

Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Degree in Labour Studies 

Law Plus Student of the Year Award 

Lauren Fleming has exemplified the transformative impact of the Law Plus program through her academic, professional, and personal growth. After facing significant challenges in high school, she entered Brock University unsure of her direction. A last-minute decision to join Law Plus set her on a path of rediscovery and she is now a fourth-year honours student on track to graduate with first-class standing, multiple academic awards, and a clear career focus in labour relations and human resources. 

Through Law Plus, she clarified her career goals, switching her major from Political Science to Labour Studies after being inspired by a guest labour lawyer session. Workshops, panels, and simulations in alternative dispute resolution, grievance arbitration, and labour law helped her gain valuable skills and confidence. These experiences led to co-op placements with the Niagara Parks Commission, where she gained hands-on experience in disability management, workplace investigations, labour relations, and legal compliance. 

Her commitment to academic excellence and professional growth is matched by her dedication to giving back. She has volunteered as a literacy tutor for the Learning Disabilities Association of Niagara Region, contributed as a notetaker with Brock Student Accessibility Services, and transformed the BU Law Review into an undergraduate law journal, growing the editorial team and mentoring incoming students. She has also served as a mentor for countless incoming first year-year students to support their transition from high school to university and as a senior in this role, she has been involved in hiring and training new Assistants for the program. 

Lauren has been a Law Plus Assistant, working for the program for over 3 years. In this role she has represented the program at events, mentorship sessions, and recruitment activities. Lauren has worked collaboratively with the staff in Career Education, bringing forth new programming ideas, specifically developing a session focused on Labour negotiations that she felt her peers would benefit from. 

Her journey reflects the essence of Law Plus while opening doors through perseverance, leadership, and dedication. She has leveraged the program to achieve remarkable academic success, develop professionally, and make a meaningful impact on her peers and the Brock community. 

“I strongly endorse Lauren for the Law Plus Student of the Year Award. She has made a measurable impact on our organization and has set a standard of excellence that reflects the very best of the program. We look forward to welcoming her back in the future and have no doubt she will continue to achieve great success. Her contributions have not only benefited our department but have also strengthened the bridge between academia and the public sector, ensuring that future students will have even greater opportunities to learn and thrive.” – Janice Spino, Chief Human Resources Officer, Niagara Parks Commission 

“Law Plus has been incredibly fortunate to have Lauren not only as a student in the program, but as a colleague whose contributions and professionalism have enriched our team and made her a joy to work with. Lauren is a thoughtful and conscientious leader, and her attention to detail, strong work ethic, and fairness, make her truly deserving of this recognition.” – Courtney Falardeau, Law Plus Consultant, Brock University 

Renata Joatar

Bachelor of Science (Honours) Medical Sciences

Med Plus Student of the Year Award

Randa Joatar embodies the mission of Med Plus through her commitment to health equity, academic excellence, and leadership in both the Brock and broader healthcare communities. Having witnessed how politics and conflict impact access to healthcare in countries such as Sudan and Ukraine, she entered the program with a personal passion for global health. A Med Plus session with Doctors Without Borders introduced her to a career path that combines her love for medicine with international service, inspiring her to pursue opportunities that address healthcare inequities both globally and locally. 

Her Med Plus placements have been pivotal in shaping her understanding of healthcare in Niagara. While volunteering at Quest Community Health Centre, she witnessed firsthand the barriers seasonal agricultural migrant workers face in accessing care. Through patient interactions and shadowing healthcare practitioners, she learned the importance of community engagement and the need to advocate for marginalized populations. These experiences reinforced her commitment to equitable healthcare and highlighted the gap between clinical practice and awareness of vulnerable populations. 

Med Plus has also enriched her academic and professional development. She became involved with the IEQUIP program, conducting research on artificial intelligence in health administration, presenting her work at the Sunnybrook Education Conference in Toronto, and sharing her findings at Niagara Health Knowledge Institute Research Day. Her interest in AI and patient privacy continues through her volunteer work with Niagara Health, contributing to improvements in public-facing privacy and Freedom of Information resources. These experiences demonstrate her dedication to combining clinical knowledge, research, and technological innovation to improve healthcare delivery. 

Her leadership and mentorship within the Brock and Med Plus communities are equally impressive. She has supported first-year students as a mentor through Med Plus, currently mentoring an impressive 5 incoming students, MentorLink, and the Black Student Success Centre, guided prospective students as a Brock Ambassador, and collaborated with Med Plus team at the Ontario University Fair to share her experiences and insights. She takes pride in paying forward the encouragement and guidance she received upon transferring to Brock, fostering confidence and opportunity for her peers. 

Overall, Randa exemplifies the values of Med Plus through her academic achievements, dedication to community and global health, and unwavering commitment to supporting others.  

“Randa Joatar exemplifies the qualities of leadership, initiative, and service that the Med Plus Student of the Year Award seeks to recognize. Her contributions have had a lasting impact on our department and the Brock community, and I wholeheartedly endorse her nomination.” Dr. Jenn Skelding, Executive Director, Student Life & Success, Brock University 

“From her engagement across academic, research, and community settings, Randa Joatar stands out as a student who leads with intention and a clear commitment to service and excellence, exemplifying the core values of the Med Plus program.” Emma McDonald, Med Plus Consultant, Brock University 

Carver Leggatt

Experiential Education Student of the Year Award

Carver Leggatt is a recent graduate of the Master of Applied Gerontology (MAG) program at Brock University, having previously completed a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology in 2024. Brock has been a meaningful part of his academic and personal journey, providing numerous opportunities for growth and learning. From early in his studies, Carver recognized the importance of embedding experiential learning into his academic experience, actively seeking opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in practical settings.

Among his most impactful contributions to the Brock community was his volunteer work as a student strength and conditioning coach with Brock Sports Performance from 2022 to 2025, where he supported the varsity wrestling team. He also served as a student athletic therapist with Brock Sports Medicine from 2023 to 2024, working with the men’s baseball and women’s volleyball teams.

Eager to extend his impact beyond varsity athletics and into the broader community, Carver enrolled in Dr. Kimberly Gammage’s KINE 4P12: Exercise Prescription for Older Adults. Through this course, he worked with older adults of varying abilities in a fitness setting at the Brock Functional Training (Bfit) Centre—an experience he found deeply rewarding. Building on this foundation, he completed an independent study under Dr. Gammage’s supervision the following semester, leading biweekly group fitness classes at the Bfit Centre.

These hands-on experiences across diverse populations helped shape Carver’s professional trajectory and solidified his passion for serving others. He strongly believes that meaningful learning occurs through experience and the practical application of knowledge. Most recently, this belief was reflected in his decision to live alongside older adults while completing his Master of Applied Gerontology. Pursuing the ICER Award was a natural next step as he considered how best to serve others, continue growing, and prepare for a future dedicated to working with older adults.

Co-op Employer of the Year: Large Organization Category

Airbus

Airbus exemplifies the qualities it takes to be selected as the Employer of the Year including consistent hiring, meaningful student impact, active employers’ engagement and an interest in continuing to grow and strengthen their relationship with Brock. Over the past three years, Airbus has hired more than 19 co-op students across all Goodman programs, offering diverse, hands-on work term that support real skill development and career exploration.  

Co-op student feedback has been exceptionally positive. One co-op student highlighted how in her role she was able to gain end-to-end recruitment experience, including resume screening, interviewing, onboarding, and leading an independent project proposing a carpooling app. Co-op students that worked for Airbus shared how much they benefited from the supportive team environment, strong mentorship, and encouragement to take ownership and pride in their work.  

Airbus has also demonstrated consistent engagement with Brock through participation in multiple N90 events, attendance at the past three Experience Expos, and openness to hosting Brock on-site visit. As a Niagara-based employer with a global footprint, Airbus provides domestic and international students with exposure to global business practices while strengthening their local talent pipeline.  

Co-op Employer of the Year: Small Medium Enterprise Category

Crawford Smith & Swallow

Crawford Smith & Swallow has been a long standing Brock Co-op employer, who has been exceptionally consistent, reliable and had a long standing commitment hiring Brock Co-op students. In the past 3 years, Crawford Smith & Swallow supported 28 co-op work terms, making them one of Brock’s top accounting employers.  

As a local firm, Crawford Smith & Swallow, provides their co-op students with highly CPA-relevant experience close to home, something many students actively seek. Student feedback has been consistently positive, stating that the high-quality and supportive work environment significantly impacted their learning and desire to pursue CA designations.  

Crawford Smith & Swallow is a highly engaged and loyal partner, regularly participating in CPA Days and BACC N90 events year after year. They consistently show up when support is needed and remain a partner of choice for providing meaningful, career-building accounting experiences to our students, making them a standout Brock Co-op employer and partner. We are grateful to work with an employer who is deeply committed in helping us develop the next generation of accounting professionals.   

Co-op Employer of the Year: Non Profit Category

City of Port Colborne

Congratulations to the City of Port Colborne our SME Employer Award recipient in recognition of their sustained commitment to Brock co-op students and its strong engagement with the Co-op program. Over the past three years, Port has hired 14 Brock co-op students, including 7 students in 2025 alone, demonstrating both consistency and growth in their support of co-operative education.  

Student feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly around leadership and supervision. Students consistently noted the trust and independence they were given, exposure to higher-level and more complex tasks, and the opportunity to learn directly from experienced professionals. One student highlighted the confidence placed in them and the strong example set by their supervisor. This exceptional mentorship is further reflected in the nomination of Bram Cotton for Outstanding Co-op Supervisor of the Year.  

The City of Port Colborne remains actively engaged with Brock through regular participation in the co-op preparation course networking events. The City is a trusted, go-to employer for students with many students choosing to return for additional work terms. Overall, the City of Port Colborne exemplifies the values of the SME Employer Award through sustained hiring, high-quality student experiences, and a genuine commitment to developing future talent.  

Alumni Co-op Employer of the Year

Angie Greenwood – Wormald Masse Keen Lopinski LLP (WMKL)

For more than 25 years, Angie Greenwood has exemplified the excellence and community commitment that define Brock University alumni. As a partner at Wormald Masse Keen Lopinski LLP (WMKL) and a longstanding champion of experiential education, Angie has shaped the professional journeys of countless Brock Accounting students. 

Angie began her career in public accounting as a Brock Coop student with WMKL in 1997. She graduated from Brock University with an Honours Bachelor of Accounting degree in 2000 and achieved her Chartered Accountant designation in 2001. In 2014, she was admitted as a partner at WMKL, a leading Niagara accounting firm founded in 1977 and employing more than 60 professionals. 

Angie currently provides accounting and assurance services to a variety of local businesses, including several in the agricultural sector. She is also actively involved in the Human Resources and Auditing and Assurance departments within the firm. This dual focus has made her a cornerstone of the partnership between WMKL and Brock’s Co-op department.  

Since 2012, WMKL has hosted 51 Brock Coop students, representing 195 total work terms. Remarkably, 72% of these students completed all four or five of their Coop terms with the firm, a testament to the exceptional quality of the learning experience under Angie’s leadership. A majority of WMKL’s accounting staff are Brock graduates, reflecting the strong and mutually beneficial partnership between our organizations. 

Angie has had an active role in hiring and mentoring dozens of students from the BACC program, making it one of our most prominent partners in the Niagara region and beyond – data shows that the firm ranks among the top seven employers of BACC coop students of all time. 

Angie and the firm have been strong and reliable partners of the program, supporting it through co-op hiring but also consistently participating in our yearly CPA Days and other BACC/MACC networking events for the benefit of students. 

Angie’s personal success, combined with her longstanding support of Brock University and her profound impact on the next generation of accounting professionals in Niagara, make her an exceptional and highly deserving candidate for the Alumni of the Year Award. 

Outstanding Supervisor of the Term: Winter

Linda Gibbons, Hydro One

This supervisor is being recognized for her exceptional mentorship, advocacy, and genuine care for student success. Although not the student’s direct manager, she proactively welcomed and supported the student from day one, encouraged confidence, professional growth, and risk-taking, and consistently created opportunities for learning and connection. Her people-first approach, belief in the student’s potential, and commitment to continuous learning had a lasting impact, empowering the student to lead complex projects, build confidence, and grow both professionally and personally.  

Outstanding Supervisor of the Term: Summer

Michael Krohe, Meridian Credit Union

This supervisor is a Brock Co-op graduate who is paying it forward by mentoring the next generation of Brock co-op students and creating meaningful, high-impact co-op learning experiences.  He has a long-standing commitment to hiring Brock co-op students and goes out of his way to create an environment where students are trusted with high-impact work, encouraged to think boldly, and supported in turning ideas into real business value. His mentorship has consistently led to great work term experiences and long-term co-op student retention. The award recognizes his ongoing commitment to paying it forward by mentoring Brock co-op students whenever possible.  

Outstanding Supervisor of the Term: Fall

Kari Stayzer, John Deere

This supervisor is being recognized for her exceptional mentorship and people-first leadership. She created a supportive, inclusive environment where the student was trusted with meaningful, high-impact work, such as automating data workflows and building Tableau dashboards, while consistently providing guidance, encouragement, and recognition. Her commitment to professional development, regular check-ins, and genuine investment in the student’s growth had a lasting impact, building both technical skills and confidence and helping shape the student’s future career in data analytics.   

Law Plus Employer of the Year

Frank Guarascio, Lawyer at Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP

Frank Guarascio, Lawyer at Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP and Adjunct Professor of Accounting at the Goodman School of Business at Brock University, is a highly deserving recipient of the Law Plus Partner of the Year award. A committed partner of the Law Plus Program for over three years, Frank has made an exceptional and sustained impact on student learning, professional skill development, and program advancement.

We would like to recognize Frank for his outstanding contributions to the curriculum as he is the only partner who facilitates lectures and interactive workshops in multiple levels of the program each year. His dedication ensures students engage in meaningful, progressive learning experiences as they move through the program. In Level 1, Frank leads a two-part Mergers and Acquisitions workshop that introduces students to transactional law while building foundational skills such as legal analysis, collaboration, and professional communication. In Level 2, he facilitates a Constitutional Law quasi-moot, providing students with an applied advocacy experience that strengthens their critical thinking, oral argument, and legal reasoning skills in a simulated professional environment.

Beyond curriculum delivery, Frank’s contributions significantly enhance the overall quality and relevance of the Law Plus Program. As a member of the Program Advisory Committee, he actively supports program development and ensures alignment with evolving legal industry expectations. His commitment to student success extends outside the classroom, where he mentors Law Plus students on an ongoing basis, offering guidance on career pathways, professional development, and law school preparation. He has also extended recruitment efforts to Law Plus students for Teaching Assistant opportunities for his commercial law course.

Through his consistent engagement, mentorship, and exceptional dedication to skill-based learning, Frank exemplifies the spirit and purpose of the Plus Programs. His contributions provide Law Plus students with meaningful, high-quality experiences that prepare them for future success in legal education and the profession.

Here is what Law Plus students have to say about Frank:

“I really enjoy his sessions. I learned a lot about mergers that I didn’t know much about before. He is a great presenter!”

“I enjoyed the moot – it was different than any other session we’ve done! This is exactly the kind of thing I hoped we’d do when I applied for Law Plus!

Med Plus Employer of the Year

Dr. Kenneth Groves, Naturopathic Doctor and Chief Medical Officer at Inspire Health Niagara

Dr. Kenneth Groves, Naturopathic Doctor and Chief Medical Officer at Inspire Health Niagara, is a highly deserving recipient of the Med Plus Partner of the Year award. A dedicated partner of the Med Plus Program for over nine years, Dr. Groves has made an exceptional and lasting contribution to student learning, professional development, and experiential education within the program.

True to the mission reflected in the name “Inspire Health”, Dr. Groves has inspired many Med Plus students through high-quality, impactful learning experiences. He has served as a guest speaker across multiple levels of the program, thoughtfully tailoring his contributions to support students’ developmental stages. In Level 1, Dr. Groves introduces students to the foundations of Naturopathic Medicine, broadening their understanding of patient-centred and preventative care. In Level 2, he introduced an interprofessional health care teams session that connects students to the roles of allied health practitioners, often bringing members of his own practice to provide real world perspectives on collaborative care.

Dr. Groves’ sessions emphasize holistic, team-based approaches to health care, helping students develop critical skills such as interprofessional communication, and patient-centred decision making. His ability to connect theory to practice has had a profound impact on how students understand health care delivery and their future roles as practitioners.

Beyond the classroom, Dr. Groves has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to mentorship and experiential learning. He regularly hosts Med Plus students for job shadowing experiences at Inspire Health Niagara, allowing students to immerse themselves in a clinical environment and gain firsthand insight into professional practice.

This year marked a powerful full-circle moment when Dr. Groves was joined in a presentation by Med Plus alumna Dr. Madelyn Cryer, ND. Inspired by Dr. Groves’ Med Plus session as an undergraduate student, Dr. Cryer pursued a career in Naturopathic Medicine and has since joined Inspire Health Niagara as a practitioner. Dr. Groves currently employs two Med Plus alumni at his practice, exemplifying his sustained impact on student career pathways and the long-term value of his partnership with the program.

Through nearly a decade of dedication, mentorship, and transformative learning experiences, Dr. Groves exemplifies the purpose and values of the Plus Programs and is a truly outstanding Med Plus Partner of the Year.

Here is what Med Plus students have to say about Dr. Groves:

“I really enjoyed his session. It was one of, if not my favorite session I attended. I had never even given a thought to the naturopathy career or even really considered it an option until now. This was very informative and also very interesting.”

“Loved Dr. Groves’ presentation. Very passionate about his job and very open to answering our questions.” “It was cool to learn more about naturopathy and made me think more about the importance of patient care aspect of the healthcare field.”

Experiential Education Community Partner of the Year –  Faculty of Applied Health Sciences

Niagara River Lions

The Niagara River Lions have been the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) champions for the past two seasons (2024 & 2024). Their success is a result of great leadership both on and off the court. Student interns from the Department of Sport Management have been the recipients of the shared knowledge that has led to that success. Every semester (fall. winter. and spring/summer) for the past 4 years, the Niagara River Lions have recruited and onboarded multiple interns from our program. In addition, the River Lions have provided full time employment opportunities for many of those interns including three current staff. The relationship has been a wonderful reciprocal collaboration whereby our students bring fresh insight and energy to the team and the River Lions integrate critical knowledge that prepares those students for the realities of working in the sport industry. The ongoing partnership is a testament to value that can be created between talented and ambitious students and a championship caliber local community organization.  

Experiential Education Community Partner of the Year – Faculty of Education

Niagara Catholic District School Board

The Niagara Catholic District School Board has been a long-standing and valued partner of the Faculty of Education. Our collaboration spans student placements and experiential learning for students, faculty research, shared human resources, committee work, and enhanced learning experiences for elementary and secondary students, and hiring Brock graduates. 

As enrolments have increased in Education courses, the demand on The Niagara Catholic District School Board has increased across all collaboration efforts, especially placements. The Niagara Catholic District School Board has supported this growth in student numbers and adapted to the increased number of placement requests, providing meaningful placement opportunities to FOE students who are seeking experiences within their schools. 

Experiential Education Community Partner of the Year – Goodman School of Business

Collab Culture

Collab Culture has distinguished itself as a new and exceptional partner to the Goodman School of Business, offering hands‑on service‑learning experiences across multiple business disciplines that meaningfully advanced graduate students’ technical capabilities, confidence, and career readiness. Founder Kelly Haick’s extraordinary commitment (through frequent meetings, practical professional guidance, and her initiative to learn technical terminology that enriched discussions) elevated the quality of students’ learning experiences and demonstrated a rare level of collaborative engagement. This mutually beneficial partnership exemplifies the very best of experiential education: enhancing student learning while simultaneously supporting Collab Culture’s delivery of gamified, community‑driven networking services to create lasting impact for the broader Niagara business community. 

Experiential Education Community Partner of the Year -Faculty of Humanities

Sledgehammer Games

Sledgehammer Games, and particularly Eric McKey (Quality Assurance Analyst) have established themselves as a fixture in the Department of Digital Humanities in 2025 and prior. Sledgehammer supports the department’s Capstone courses through Design Document Reviews, consultation with students, and Industry Night, where Eric particularly promotes accessibility in the games industry. From Accessible Games Day programming open to all Brock community members to the annual Level Up Showcase where student game developers across the province publicly apply and professionalize their skills, Sledgehammer Games has consistently been champions for accessibility, experiential education, and Brock students. 

Experiential Education Community Partner of the Year – Faculty of Mathematics & Science

Axzora Inc

The Faculty of Mathematics and Science has made a direct effort to grow experiential learning opportunities and Axzora INC has been a consistent partner from the start of this initiative. In previous years, they supported grant awarded course projects and student research tied to their GIS platform Mapbook. In 2025, Axzora Inc partnered on two different CEWIL funded student projects within the Earth Science and Computer Science departments amounting to over 60,000$ in approved grants again showing their belief in the deliverable work of student service learning and research learning projects. Axzora continues to be a valued industry partner across Brock and we look forward to working with them again in the coming semester.    

Experiential Education Community Partner of the Year – Faculty of Social Sciences

Bethesda

The level of support Bethesda provided to ADST Doctoral students in 2025 was exceptional. Supervisors (Angela and Monica) provided weekly or biweekly supervision to two cohorts of students, offering coaching, mentorship, support, and opportunities for practice. They also collaborated with course instructors, attending weekly classes to facilitate group supervision. In her nomination letter, Dr. Koudys described the level of support from across the organization as “unparalleled,” “exemplary” and contributing to “a truly exceptional learning opportunity for Brock ABA PhD students.” The impact of this partnership in the community is also significant. Brock students co-developed a free community service that helps caregivers gain the knowledge and skills required to support their children with neurodevelopmental differences when practicing important life skills such as toilet training, healthy sleep habits, and emotion/behaviour regulation. Through a combination of caregiver education and coaching, Brock’s partnership with Bethesda allows our students to learn critical clinical skills that improve the quality of life of children with neurodevelopmental differences and their family members. 

Charlie Martin

BA, Political Science

Law Plus Student of the Year Award

Charlie Martin is a fourth year Political Science student with a minor in History. He attributes Law Plus as pivotal in sharing his career trajectory by offering experiences that clarified his professional goals. Through job shadowing, he gained firsthand insights into legal practice which cemented his aspirations to pursue a career in Law. He also credits the program to connecting him with career opportunities. For example, his position as a Student Affairs Case Coordinator at Brock through networking with a guest speaker and the student conduct council. This role ahs allowed him to refine his ability to assess cases, mediate disputes and ensure the well-being of the University’s community.

As a mentor for the program, and selected as a panelist for presentations, he has guided students, advocated for the program and shared benefits with peers while encouraging them to grow within the program. Volunteering with Law Plus awakened his passion for student advocacy, leading him to represent BUSU as a delegate with the Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance and as the Vice-Chair of BUSU’s Board of Directors championing policies that address student issues and interests of his peers.

In his second year, he faced an unexpected and life-altering challenge when he was diagnosed to Myopericarditis. Despite hospitalization, he demonstrated Brock’s SURGITE! And completed his studies on time, earning high academic standing and testing his resilience and determination. His dedication to academics was recognized through receiving the prestigious Grant Dow Scholarship, awarded to a student in Political Science who demonstrates high academic achievement and a commitment to studying law.

“As I continue on my path to law school, I am grateful for the program’s influence on my career, personal, and academic development. The lessons I’ve learned and the resilience I’ve built through Law Plus will guide me as I strive to make meaningful contributions to the legal profession and the communities I serve.” – Charlie Martin

Lucas Gomes

Bachelor of Business Administration

The Sohaib Chilmeran Scholarship

Established in 2021, “The Sohaib Chilmeran Scholarship” is to award a third year Undergraduate Co-op student who is a newcomer to Canada (immigrated to Canada in last 5 years, international student) with a minimum of 75% overall average. The purpose of the Scholarship is to recognize co-op students who are newcomers to Canada and have demonstrated the spirit of “Surgite!” to overcome life challenges.

The scholarship is an annual one-time award to be granted to the selected student in the amount of $1,000.

Lucas Gomes, 3rd Year BBA student, is the 2024 recipient of this generous award.

Arriving in Canada with big dreams but limited financial resources, Lucas Gomes embraced the challenge of building a new life. With his parents’ support covering only his first year of tuition, he took on multiple jobs—braving harsh outdoor conditions at Home Depot and refining his customer service skills at Old Navy. Determined to gain greater financial stability, he moved into a sales role as a Community Ambassador, where he sharpened also was able to improve his strategic thinking and adaptability skills

While balancing academics, work, and a desire for self-improvement, Lucas actively pursued certifications and networking opportunities. His hard work and dedication led to a co-op work term with Unilever and, ultimately, a historic milestone—becoming Brock University’s first undergraduate Management Consultant co-op student at KPMG. His journey is a testament to hard work, resilience, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

Milaina Wong

BSc, Medical Sciences

Med Plus Student of the Year Award

Milaina Wong, a fourth-year student in Brock University’s Medical Sciences Program, is pursuing a Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree with aspirations for a career in healthcare to improve patient experiences and outcomes. She was awarded the 2024 Niagara Health Knowledge Institute/Brock University Summer Student Award in recognition of her academic success and community involvement.

Milaina is an active member of the Brock and broader Niagara community. She volunteers with Vision Plus, assisting with vision assessments for children, supports marginalized populations with food insecurities at Project SHARE, and serves as a patient support volunteer at Niagara Health’s Oncology and Emergency departments.

As a third-year student, Milaina was selected as a mentor for the Med Plus program, typically reserved for only senior students, due to her strong communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills. She helps mentees with goal-setting, offers guidance on achieving success, and promotes positive self-image.

Milaina’s career trajectory has been shaped by job shadowing, completing certifications, and skill development workshops through Med Plus. She is a passionate advocate for the program, which has played a significant role in her personal and professional growth. She looks forward to continuing as an ambassador for Med Plus and Brock University.

“Over the past four years, I have experienced tremendous growth and development, and being a member of Med Plus has played an enormous role in this progression. My rewarding experience has made me a huge advocate for the program, and I take every opportunity to share the benefits of being a member with others. I look forward to continuing to act as an ambassador for the Med Plus program and Brock University, for many years to come.” – Milaina Wong

Michelle Yang

Bachelor of Business Administration

Undergraduate Co-op Student of the Year Award

Starting as a marketing major, Michelle discovered the power of storytelling through data, leading her to pivot into finance and analytics. During her 2024 co-op work term at Equinix, she thrived in an innovation-driven environment, gaining exposure to cutting-edge technologies and expanding her expertise in data analytics, cloud computing, and automation tools like Power BI, Power Automate, and SQL.

Beyond the workplace, Michelle has made a lasting impact at Brock. As a Career Development Assistant, VP of Marketing for Women in Business, and Lead Account Director for Canada’s largest marketing case competition, she has mentored over 500 students, inspiring future leaders. Whether speaking at Microsoft’s Coast-to-Coast panel, winning hackathons, or continuously expanding her skill set, she embraces every challenge with passion and determination.

Michelle’s journey is one of resilience, transformation, and empowerment—a testament to the incredible impact of co-op education.

Shadaé Brown

Bachelor of Arts, Psychology

Undergraduate Co-op Student of the Year Award

Shadaé Brown is a dedicated fourth – year student majoring in Psychology and minoring in Women and Gender Studies.

With a strong passion for social justice she works as a Relief Counsellor at Gillian’s Place, building on her previous co-op experience as a Counselling Intern with this organization.

Shadaé is also a research assistant within the Inclusive Education Lab and the Youth Development lab.

Her deep involvement in advocacy is demonstrated in her role as a committee board member of the President’s Advisory Committee on Human Rights, Equity, and Decolonization (PACHRED), specifically focusing on anti-Black racism, anti-ableism, and mental health.

Her leadership extends to her former roles as a Mental Health Team Lead and Peer Health Educator at Brock, supporting student well-being for two years.

Shadaé’s commitment to social change is evident in her work advocating for vulnerable populations and dismantling oppressive systems. Shadaé is a passionate advocate for equity and inclusion.

Mannat Singh

Master of Business Administration

Graduate Co-op Student of the Year Award

Mannat Singh is a MBA student currently completing her final work term with Hydro One. During her co-op, she embraced challenges and grew immensely. Joining the Capital Delivery Model – Centre of Excellence team, she quickly adapted to working within the Stage Gate team, independently managing responsibilities such as scheduling stage gates and reviews, supporting project managers and training a new team member. She later transitioned to business cases with Technical Writers, gaining valuable insights into project approvals. Beyond her core work, she created an Excel dashboard that streamlined workload management, supported dynamic Power BI dashboards, and took on innovative tasks like building SharePoint pages. Mannat has joined the co-op committee, organizing social and informational events, with attendance doubling over time. She has also volunteered with other ERGs for their events, which further enriched her experience.

This journey has reinforced her adaptability, curiosity, and commitment to excellence.

Mannat received Honorable Mention for the 2024 Experiential and Work Integrated Learning Ontario (EWO Co-op Student of the Year, in the University category. The EWO Co-op Student of the Year Award recognizes Ontario students who have showcased exceptional job achievement, extra-curricular involvement, and a strong contribution to Co-op Education and Work Integrated Learning.

Stuti Patel

Bachelor of Business Administration, Goodman School of Business 

Stuti Patel is a Bachelor of Business Administration Student in the Goodman School of Business, and founder of Taal by Stuti, a business venture focused on providing affordable and enriching Indian folk and classical dance lessons for youth. Stuti is developing her business as part of the Entrepreneurship Co-op Program.

Team Europe

Carlos Kley, Jakob Kräutle, Kathryn Daly, Laurenz Kuna, and Luisa Niedhart

Experiential Education Student of the Year Award

Team Europe, a group of 5 students brought together by their shared international backgrounds, connected through a service-learning project in a Business Ethics course at Brock’s Goodman School of Business. Carlos, Jakob, Laurenz, and Kathryn are students in the BBA Co-op Double Degree program from Germany and Ireland, and Luisa is a German exchange student. These students bridged borders and applied their diverse perspectives to create impact through experiential education. 

Team Europe exemplified the thoughtfulness and high-quality work we strive for in service-learning projects at Brock, and particularly in the Goodman School of Business. This group collaborated with Jessica Grabell, founder of Remember MEdia, a start-up that uses technology to connect people with dementia to their memories and loved ones, and helped bring Jessica’s vision to life. They developed Mission, Vision, and Value statements, grounding their recommendations in core values of compassion, community collaboration, dignity, integrity, and “People before Profit” – ensuring Remember MEdia remains purpose-driven as it grows. Their dedication, professionalism, and insight showcase the power of service-learning, and experiential education more generally, to create strong, mutually beneficial community relationships. 

Team Europe has also won Experiential & Work-Integrated Learning Ontario (EWO)’s Experiential Learning Student of the Year Award for the University Category! 

Law Plus Partner AWARD

Niagara Regional Police Services

The Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS) has been a valued partner of the Law Plus program since its inception in 2019.

This year, Constable Al Rivet has been instrumental in advancing our partnership with the NRPS, significantly elevating the quality of programming we offer our students. Through his collaboration with the program, the NRPS hosted two observational visits, including a tour of the Police Headquarters in Niagara Falls. During these visits, students toured the facility and networked with professionals from the Forensics and Dispatch units, who all volunteered their time to showcase various law-adjacent careers in policing and communications. On March 4th, students will visit the Niagara Regional Police Training Facility in St. Catharines, where they will interact with professionals from the K9 Unit, Emergency Task Unit, Marine & Underwater Search and Rescue, and Traffic Units.

These observational visits provide experiential learning outside of the classroom and allow our students to build relationships and connections with a variety of professionals in policing. In our focus groups, students expressed how much they enjoyed interacting with different professionals and learning how their roles support each other.

Al, representing the NRPS, also attended the Exploring Careers in Law, Security, and Government event as a panelist. After the event, he stayed for almost an hour to network one-on-one with each student and answer questions about his role. The mentorship and willingness to connect with our students extend beyond this event, as Al and his colleagues have made themselves available to support student success.

The NRPS has also extended their recruitment efforts to Law Plus students, offering employment opportunities. They recently invited Law Plus students to join Crime Stoppers, a volunteer placement opportunity where our students can engage with the Niagara community to raise awareness and support those in need. Through this opportunity, students can become part of a strong, supportive community that stands together against crime and injustice while building valuable skills.

We would like to recognize the NRPS for providing high-quality and meaningful experiences for students and for supporting the purpose and initiatives of the Law Plus program.

Med Plus Partner Award

Supporting Neurodiversity through Adaptive Programming (SNAP)

Brock-Niagara Centre of Excellence in Inclusive & Adaptive Activity and it’s Supporting Neurodiversity through Adaptive Programming (SNAP) has been a long-standing partner for the Med Plus program and making lasting contributions to the program’s success in a variety of ways.

SNAP has played a crucial role in fostering the development of our students, actively participating in our annual summer orientation to speak with students and recruit volunteers. Students gain practical, hands-on experience by completing their Med Plus placements within SNAP’s programs, where they receive high-quality training focused on supporting children and youth with disabilities in the Niagara Region. This collaboration not only enhances the educational experience for our students but also creates leadership opportunities, with many of our students advancing into roles as Program Coordinators.

For over 10 years, SNAP leaders have offered their time and expertise as guest speakers for Level 1 Med Plus. They plan and host an interactive Inclusivity and Adaptability workshop where students gain an understanding of fine and gross motor skill development and enhancing movement competency through play. This year, our students ranked this session as one of their favourites because it fostered hands-on learning and challenged them to think about ways they can help others.

The volunteer and workshop opportunities that SNAP provides our students allows them to build a range of competencies that enhances both personal and professional development. Skills such as cultural sensitivity, communication, adaptability, empathy, emotional intelligence, teamwork, and leadership—are critical in their journey to becoming compassionate and effective future healthcare providers. In addition, their deepened understanding of neurodiversity and the strategies needed to offer appropriate support and accommodation will continue to guide them throughout their careers.

25th Med Plus Anniversary

Dr. David Dec, B.Sc., M.D., C.C.F.P., F.C.F.P.

Dr. David Dec became involved in the Med Plus program nearly 25 years ago as a new practitioner in the Niagara Region. Over the years, he has provided students with the knowledge, exposure, and tools they need to explore different healthcare paths.

As a guest speaker, Dr. Dec introduces the practice of Family Medicine to our junior students. Then, as they progress to become seniors in the program, he facilitates another session focusing on Medical Ethics, often bringing his residents or colleagues to join him. In this interactive session, Dr. Dec presents different healthcare scenarios, where students collaborate and work through the principles of ethics.

Throughout their journey in Med Plus, students also have the opportunity to network and build relationships with Dr. Dec, as he has graciously hosted countless job-shadowing opportunities at his practice. Over the years, students have had the chance to experience a day in the life of a family physician, observing patient interactions and gaining first-hand insight into the profession.

The staff of the Med Plus program frequently seek Dr. Dec’s input on curriculum and welcome his ideas and suggestions for new programming. He has been an “informal consultant” to the program, offering his expertise.

Here’s what students have to say:

“I expected to learn a lot on this job shadow, and I did! I was able to ask Dr. Dec questions on not just what he did in his career but also the ways he interacts with patients. I gained a lot of insight into Family medicine and it was interesting to see all the work that he does behind the scenes to support his patients.”

“I really liked how involved Dr. Dec allowed me to be with the entire process! He explained everything he was doing and answered the questions I had. Dr. Dec is a great model of a health care professional who has a lot of knowledge and takes the time to share it with students like us”

“This was a very informative session – I appreciate that he brough his resident with him to talk to us. I liked the varying perspectives they had. Also appreciated that he introduced the social determinants of health. We learn about them in class but it was great to hear from a professional who sees them every day.”

“I really enjoyed the medical ethics session! It was challenging to make decisions in the scenarios we were given and really nice to experience what it’s like to be in the profession. Dr. Dec encouraged us to think about things in ways I would have never got to myself!”

Co-op Employer of the Year Award – Large Organization Category

Niagara Parks

Niagara Parks has been a strong supporter of Brock Co-op programs for over 25 years, and our collaboration has intensified in recent years. Over the last 2 years they have hired almost 30 students across a breadth of programs including political science, psychology, history, sustainability, business, public health, labour studies, and biological sciences. This diversity of opportunities offered across the Niagara Parks division makes the organization a unique and invaluable employer partner to Brock.

This fruitful collaboration provided high quality co-op experiences to our students who also expressed a high level of job satisfaction, highlighting in particular the quality of the assignments, and of the management and supervision. This was evidently reflected in the two Outstanding Supervisor nominations received in 2024 by supervisors in the Heritage division and the Human Resources division.

Students consistently praised the collaborative atmosphere fostered the organization, the attentive and approachable supervisors, and the opportunities for professional growth. Students have also commented on the supportive and motivating team-oriented corporate culture which adds to the quality of the experience.

Beyond offering valuable work terms, Niagara Parks has been a dedicated supporter of Brock’s co-op and early talent initiatives, actively participating in events such as N90 networking events and the campus-wide Experience Expo. Additionally, Niagara Parks has formalized its partnership with Brock University through an official Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), establishing a strong foundation for ongoing collaboration across various projects and teams.

Co-op Employer of the Year Award – Small Medium Category

DDL & Co

Based in St. Catharines, DDL & Co. (DiPaola, DiPietro & Little) has been a dedicated hiring partner for Brock Co-op students since 2017. As a valued local employer, DDL goes above and beyond to create meaningful employment opportunities for our students and graduates. Since hiring their first co-op student, they have steadily increased their engagement with the program. In 2024 alone, DDL hired 10 co-op students, contributing to a total of 34 high-quality work terms for 15 students between 2022 and 2024.

As one of our most prominent partners in public accounting, DDL has demonstrated a strong and ongoing commitment to mentorship, training, and professional development, helping Brock students build the skills and experience needed to become successful accountants. DDL is also committed to investing in youth and offers summer co-op opportunities to first-year students, giving them an early introduction to the industry and a smoother transition into their regularly scheduled winter work terms. In Summer 2023, DDL hired two first-year co-op students, increasing to three in Summer 2024. Students who participated in these early experiences have consistently highlighted the significant impact on their confidence, learning curve, and overall success in subsequent work terms.

Overall, co-op students at DDL praise the well-rounded experience gained at DDL, as well as the friendly work environment and supportive managers and colleagues that help facilitate their learning and add to their job satisfaction with most students rating their work term experience with DDL as a 9/10 or higher.

DDL’s involvement extends beyond hiring to helping play a key role in shaping the next generation of accounting professionals. DDL has consistently participated in a multitude of events on campus ranging from CPA Days, N90 Networking Events and our campus-wide Experience Expo. We are grateful for this level of involvement with Brock, which makes DDL one of our most important accounting partners.

Co-op Employer of the Year Award – Non-Profit Category

Halton Region

The team at Halton Region is deeply committed to delivering essential services to their community while fostering a welcoming, team-oriented, and inclusive environment where co-op students can thrive. Since first hiring Brock Co-op students in 2019, Halton Region has become a valued partner, providing meaningful work experiences that support student growth and success.

Between 2021 and 2024, Halton Region hired 12 students, contributing to a total of 19 co-op work terms. Most recently, in 2024, they hired five students for seven work terms. Recognizing the value of diverse perspectives, Halton Region has actively recruited students from a wide range of academic backgrounds, including Accounting (BAcc), Business (BBA), Master of Business Administration (MBA), Geography (BA), Master of Professional Accounting (MPAcc), Public Health (PHTH), and Master of Sustainability (SSAS).

Halton Region hires co-op students for the summer but recently has increased their participation by offering 4-, 8-, and 12-month work terms. Student feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the valuable co-op opportunities that they are provided

Their commitment to experiential learning and student development makes Halton Region an outstanding co-op employer, equipping students with the skills and experience needed to excel in their careers.

Alumni Co-op Employer of the Year Award

Brooke Iannuzzelli – City of Welland

Brooke, a Goodman School of Business graduate and enthusiastic HR advisor with the City of Welland, is an advocate for the importance of co-op placements. She has been an active alumna since graduation and has been an engaged member of the Goodman Alumni Networks for several years.

During her tenure with the City of Welland, Brooke has worked tirelessly to build a strong relationship with Brock’s co-op and Career offices to ensure that Brock students and graduates see the many opportunities the City of Welland offers. Because of Brooke’s efforts, many students have taken on a variety of placements at the City in multiple departments.

Brooke’s efforts have been instrumental in educating and retaining local talent within the Niagara Region.

Experiential Education Community Partner of the Year –  Applied Health Sciences Faculty Category

St. Joseph’s Health Care Hamilton

Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies:

For over a decade, St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton has been a valued partner of the Faculty of Applied Health Sciences within the Departments of Recreation and Leisure Studies and Nursing.

In serving Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies students, internship supervisors at St. Joseph’s Healthcare are recognized professionals and leaders within the Therapeutic Recreation field, holding either Registered Professional status with Therapeutic Recreation Ontario or National Certification from the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification. Brock’s Therapeutic Recreation students participate in a structured 14-week, 560-hour capstone internship under the excellent supervision of the Recreation Therapists St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton. During their internships, students work within an interdisciplinary team and are supported by human resources and numerous other professionals who contribute to a meaningful internship experience. As a result, students gain valuable insights into the duties, roles, and responsibilities of the Therapeutic Recreation practitioners they work alongside and enhance their professional skills and competencies through immersive experiences, while applying theoretical knowledge obtained in the classroom to practical, real-world scenarios.

Department of Nursing:

In May 2021, Dr. Gangji, then inaugural Vice President of Education at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Hamilton reached out to Dr. Karyn Taplay, Chair of the Department of Nursing to initiate a collaboration between Brock Nursing and St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton. Since this time, the partnership has developed and strengthened, with St. Joseph’s providing dozens of nursing student placement opportunities for both the BScN and BNMN students. This initiative was developed at an ideal time, as Brock’s Nursing program was seeking new clinical partners, given increased enrollment, alongside initiating a new Bachelor of Nursing/Master’s of Nursing program. Over time, St. Joseph’s has become an integral partner for the Department of Nursing at Brock in consistently providing placements covering a variety of clinical areas/specialties. Most recently, the hospital has provided Nursing students mental health placements, crucial in ensuring all Nursing students have substantial experiential opportunities, thus enabling completion of required clinical hours. Thanks to our partnership with St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton, every Brock Nursing student is able to meet course objectives and gain valuable, high-quality clinical experience.

Experiential Education Community Partner of the Year – Goodman Business Faculty Category

Canadian Grapevine Certification Network – Réseau Canadien de Certification de la Vigne (CGCN-RCCV)

The Canadian Grapevine Certification Network (CGCN) was a service-learning partner in two Goodman courses – a Business Strategy course with Dr. Navjote Khara and a Consumer Behaviour marketing course with Dr. Antonia Mantonakis. CGCN actively engaged with students – delving into topics related to sustainability and climate change, meeting with student groups one-on-one, and coordinating lab tours with Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute (CCOVI) to bring student learning to life. The student projects were robust and demonstrated the impact of experiential learning, resulting in CGCN hiring a Goodman student to review and implement some of the final project recommendations. CGCN has also hired co-op students to support their ongoing mission. The Executive Director of CGCN, Darien Temprile, is a Goodman alumna who benefited from experiential learning as a student and was delighted to return to Brock as a community partner to be a true champion of Experiential Education.

Experiential Education Community Partner of the Year – Education Faculty Category

District School Board of Niagara (DSBN)

The District School Board of Niagara (DSBN) has been a long standing and exemplary partner with our Faculty of Education, with ample opportunities for our students in all our programs that receive field-based experiences and professional practicums. They are knowledgeable of the evolving needs related to practicums, student experience, and professional development, and continue to foster effective and reciprocal relationships that support Brock students’ needs in their courses, degree program, and meeting their Ontario College of Teachers (OCT) requirements. The DSBN engages with our Placement Manager, Associate Dean offices, and Experiential Education office on a regular basis to help streamline their DSBN processes to service our many Brock students beyond Faculty of Education. This is a significant partnership where it is noted that both Superintendents of Curriculum & Student Achievement’ leadership has advanced not only our collaborative partnership, but also the DSBN’s commitment to service our undergraduate students within their (Kindergarten to Grade 12) schools.

Experiential Education Community Partner of the Year – Humanities Faculty Category

The Brown Homestead

The Brock Homestead has supported experiential education across the Faculty of Humanities in 2024, and beyond. Over the past two years, the Homestead has worked with Brock’s Interactive Arts and Science students on projects integrating digital media with Niagara’s local history. Students have created interactive exhibits and programs to explore different stages of The Brown Homestead’s appearance and use over the years, virtually layering historically-accurate wallpapers for visitors to view, creating a game that teaches students in grades 8-9 how to build an historically-accurate accordion lath wall, and highlighting the Homestead’s dairy barn with a 3D model of its potential to be a functioning ice cream parlor! Additionally, The Brown Homestead has hosted and supported History and Interdisciplinary Humanities students who have conducted interviews and oral history projects with their staff, and with former inhabitants and their descendants, resulting in the preservation of local history and thoughtful integration of community engagement into programming opportunities for years to come. The Brown Homestead has provided incredible supervision and insight into the complexities of working on a historical site. Their support of over 25 students over the course of 2024 builds on prior collaborations and continues to grow, resulting in professional development and opportunities for Humanities students that extend into tourism and community programming, communications, historical preservation, and interactive digital design.

Experiential Education Community Partner of the Year – Math & Science Faculty Category

King and Victoria Winery

King and Victoria Winery has been a consistent supporter of our OEVI program, contributing fruit, providing access to vineyards during harvest, and offering mentorship to students whenever possible. This semester, they have served as the focal point for the OEVI 4P92 Wine Marketing student final projects, providing the inner workings of their winery for students to create a tangible marketing plan on. King and Victoria has had multiple owners present to students in the classroom, hosting site visits for them to gather information as well as hosting the student final project presentations, providing each with comprehensive feedback on the work provided.

Experiential Education Community Partner of the Year – Social Sciences Faculty Category

Niagara Parks Commission

Foundations of Sustainability Science and Society, a core course for Master of Sustainability students, partnered with the Niagara Parks Commission to offer an experiential learning opportunity where students visited key ecological restoration sites, including the Chippawa Grassland, Ussher’s Creek Coastal Wetland, and Gonder’s Flats Wetland Restoration projects. This hands-on experience connected course concepts to real-world applications in stewardship, biodiversity conservation, and ecological restoration, enhancing students’ understanding of sustainability practices in action in local ecosystems.

Similarly, students in Contemporary Environmental Issues, an undergraduate level course, engaged in experiential learning with the NPC. A group of students from the course visited the Gonder’s Flats Wetland Restoration Project, where they were introduced to the iNaturalist app and were shown how the Niagara Parks Commission encourages the local community to catalogue regional plant and animal species. Students actively participated in a mini bio-blitz, using the app to document various species, contributing to NPC’s growing species database. The day culminated in a tree planting initiative aimed at enhancing biodiversity and water management in the wetland. This experience directly connected students to the course material, reinforcing key concepts in biodiversity conservation, citizen science ,and ecosystem restoration.