Karen McGrath (pictured left) will retire from the College in December 2016.

A message from Steve Hudson, vice president, Academic and Learner Services:

It is with mixed emotions that I announce the retirement of Karen McGrath this coming December. As director of Libraries and Bookstore Services, Karen has made a significant contribution to the life of Niagara College students and staff. Karen’s client-focused approach and understanding the needs of her constituents, have been the common thread throughout her 30-year career at the National Library of Canada, Niagara College and various community libraries.

In 2012, Karen was elected president of the Ontario Library Association, representing more than 5,000 members and collaborating at the national level with library representatives from across Canada. She also served as chair of the Heads of Libraries and Learning Resource group, coordinating the collaborative efforts of the 24 Ontario college libraries. Earlier this year, her dedication, innovation and leadership were recognized by her peers as the Ontario Library Association honoured Karen with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Karen’s commitment to Niagara College does not end with library users as she has also made a significant contribution as the administrative representative on the NC Board of Governors. Karen played an integral role in developing our integrated student services model and will continue to support the implementation of the model in the coming months. The Library and Learning Commons at each of our two main campuses will be at the centre of these services, and I know that Karen will be extremely proud of these vibrant learning hubs for students, faculty and staff.

We will miss Karen’s unwavering commitment to student success and will plan an opportunity for staff to wish her well as she moves on to the next chapter of her life.