On November 22, students in Niagara College’s Broadcasting – Radio, Television and Film Production (BRTF) program welcomed a special guest into their studio.
Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, visited NC’s Welland Campus and was “wowed” by the many ways NC’s broadcasting team support community events, initiatives, and productions for locals and visitors to Niagara alike.
Led by program coordinators Peter ‘Dutch’ Vandenberg and Bruce Gilbert, Minister Cho explored classrooms and labs where students were engaged in hands-on learning – recording and producing content for radio, and filming scenes for TV.
Welland Mayor Frank Campion joined the Minister and College team for the tour.
Vandenberg highlighted the ways that students gain experience supporting community events through high-quality productions, and the College’s partnership with broadcasters like TSN, where many of our grads are employed. He noted the College’s role in the Niagara 2022 Canada Summer Games, from bid to the complexities of livestream production.
Gilbert led a tour of the radio suite which was a hive of student activity. Broadcasting daily on the College radio station, CRNC The Heat, students create, produce and present news, sports, traffic, weather, music and specialty programming.
Joining the Minister for the walkabout were Vice-President, Academic, Fiona Allan, Leo Tiberi, Dean of Media, Trades and Technology, Mabel Watt, Director of Government Relations and Carly Root, Director, Community Relations and Events.
In the theatre, Minister Cho watched the promo video NC students created for the World Rowing Championships. BRTF students Taiwo, Zoe, Jay and Lyka talked with the Minister about their experiences covering various community events and the unique energy of working out in the Niagara community.
Root highlighted the ways the College supports community through promotional efforts and marketing assets. She also highlighted how their projects have aligned with the College’s commitment to EDI, supporting equity-related initiatives in the Region.
The visit marks the Minister’s second formal visit to the College. Formerly the Minister of Long-Term Care, Minister Cho toured the College’s nursing and Personal Support Worker lab spaces in October 2023.
“I’m wowed every time I come to Niagara College, and I can’t wait to come back,” said Minister Cho, who gifted students Trillium pins.
