Media releases

• Provincial tech championships to connect robotics to ocean health

  Wednesday, October 30, 2024 | By Brock University

  MEDIA RELEASE – October 30, 2024 – R0131

  The role that robotics can play in preserving the world’s oceans will be at the centre of an upcoming provincial tech challenge geared toward youth.

  Hosted by FIRST Robotics Canada, the FIRST Tech Challenge Provincial Championship will bring hundreds of Ontario youth to Brock University in February to engage in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

  A new partnership between the two organizations will see Brock host the championships for the next three years.

  Thirty-six teams, comprised of Grade 7 to 12 students from across Ontario, will showcase their talent, innovation and teamwork in STEM on Sunday, Feb. 23.

  The competition theme, INTO THE DEEP presented by RTX, challenges teams to explore underwater ecosystems through robotics. Participants will design and program robots to tackle real-world challenges inspired by the ocean’s environment, underscoring the importance of innovation, problem solving and collaboration in addressing environmental issues.

  The competition encourages students to think critically about ocean health and how they can contribute to a more sustainable world through STEM.

  It also aims to highlight the potential of young learners and inspire the next generation of STEM leaders while also strengthening the relationship between FIRST Robotics Canada and Brock University.

  “We are excited to partner with Brock University for this monumental event, which promises to engage students, teachers and the local community in an unforgettable display of robotic innovation and teamwork,” said Dave Ellis, President of FIRST Robotics Canada. “By hosting this year’s provincial championships at Brock University, we are creating opportunities for students to develop critical skills that will serve them well in the future. We are building a brighter tomorrow, one robot at a time.”

  Peter Berg, Dean of Brock’s Faculty of Mathematics and Science, said the University is excited to host the championships over the next three years.

  “It’s excellent timing for this partnership. The University is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year and our Faculty welcomed our first cohort of Engineering students this fall,” he said. “It will provide many opportunities for our campus community to connect with the young, bright minds who will compete and present their innovative solutions.”

  The event is expected to attract more than 1,000 students, mentors and supporters, creating a dynamic atmosphere filled with inspiring competition, STEM-based learning and the excitement of discovery. It’s an opportunity for students to showcase their talents, learn about potential future careers and immerse themselves in the empowering world of robotics.

  For more information or for assistance arranging interviews:

   *Sarah Ackles, Communications Specialist, Brock University sackles@brocku.ca or 289-241-5483

   * Lisa Ramraj, FIRST Tech Challenge Program Manager, FIRST Robotics Canada, lisa.ramraj@firstroboticscanada.org or 647-654-0293

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  Categories: Media releases

• Fall Preview Day to give future Badgers a glimpse into Brock life

  Tuesday, October 29, 2024 | By Brock University

  MEDIA RELEASE – October 29, 2024 – R0130

  Thousands of future Badgers will soon experience all that Brock’s vibrant community has to offer as the University gears up for its Fall Preview Day.

  Prospective students and their families will visit campus for a first-hand look at what it’s like to call Brock home, with the help of more than 100 enthusiastic student volunteers along with staff and faculty on Sunday, Nov. 3 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

  “This event is all about connecting prospective students and their families with the heart of the Brock experience,” says Carly Dugo, Senior Recruitment Officer, Events and Operations. “Whether they’re discovering our state-of-the-art facilities, hearing directly from passionate faculty or getting a feel for campus life, we’re here to help each visitor see how they can thrive as part of our community.”

  The day will feature guided tours of Brock’s main campus, the Marilyn I. Walker School of Fine and Performing Arts in downtown St. Catharines and a variety of residence options.

  Guests will also have the chance to explore Brock’s classrooms, labs and service areas to gain a hands-on look at the University’s academic and social spaces.

  Matthew Melnyk, Director, Student Recruitment, says Fall Preview Day aims to immerse students in the full Brock experience.

  “Our goal is to give students a genuine sense of what Brock has to offer, from our unique academic programs to the close-knit campus community,” Melnyk says. “We know once students step onto our campus and interact with our staff, faculty and current students, they can truly envision themselves here as Badgers.”

  At the 80-booth Information Fair also taking place that day, visitors will have the opportunity to engage directly with faculty, staff and current students to learn about academic programs, admissions, scholarships and the range of support services offered at Brock. Each booth will provide tailored information to give prospective students insight into both the academic and extracurricular opportunities available.

  “Fall Preview Day is a powerful introduction to the Brock community,” Melnyk says. “It’s an opportunity for future students to see not just our campus but also to experience the vibrant community and support that will surround them as Brock students.”

  For more details on the event schedule and registration information, visit Brock’s Fall Preview Day website.

   

  For more information or for assistance arranging interviews:

  *Sarah Ackles, Communications Specialist, Brock University sackles@brocku.ca or 289-241-5483

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  Categories: Media releases