Computer Programmer/Analyst Program student, Logan Kraneyk, and Computer Systems Technician Program students, Gabriel Atienza-Norris and Anastasiia Slyvka, awarded Associate Dean’s Award of Excellence.
As part of their Event Management and Development course, a group of students from NC’s Public Relations (PR) program gained hands-on experience and applied knowledge from planning the annual Computer Programming Awards.
Every year, PR students take on the Computer Programmer/Analyst Program and the Computer Systems Technician Program as clients to coordinate the on-campus awards ceremony.
“Having the students work in teams to plan and execute an event is an integral component of the PR Program’s term two course, Event Management and Development,” said Emily McInerney, PR Program Coordinator & Professor. “This allows them to really apply the classroom learnings to an actual event and to report to clients, manage a budget, source venues, determine catering and décor, create invites and of course, execute.”
Student Taylor Judson, who is in the final semester of the one-year PR program, feels this project was beneficial in providing hands-on experience that adequately prepares her for the workforce.
“It was a valuable learning experience getting thrown into the real-life scenarios of planning an actual event, all while practicing in the safe learning environment the College provides,” said Judson.
This year’s event took place on March 15 at The Core (Welland Campus) where students, staff gathered for a fun afternoon filled with games, prizes, and delicious food.
Kicking off the awards ceremony, Computer Systems Technician Program Coordinator, Jim Schinkel took time to thank the PR students for organizing the event and applauded their hard work.
“We know it takes a lot of time and effort to set up such a successful event,” said Schinkel. “It’s always a great partnership working with the PR program on this event – we learn from them, and they learn from us.”
Leo Tiberi, Interim Dean, Media, Trades and Technology, and student Logan Kraneyk after receiving the Associate Dean’s Award of Excellence.
Leo Tiberi, Interim Dean, Media, Trades and Technology also took the stage to present the 2022 – 2023 Associate Dean’s Award of Excellence.
Students awarded the Associate Dean’s Award of Excellence consistently exceed the expectations of their program, are reliable and diligent workers – going beyond the expectations set out by the curriculum – and have enthusiastically supported their peers, program, and Niagara College.
Third year student Logan Kraneyk, who received the award for the Computer Systems Technician program, acknowledged his professors as a key, contributing factor to his success in the program.
“My professors have helped me understand course work critically and quickly, while supporting both my academic and personal projects,” said Kraneyk. “Professor Schinkel is one of the most helpful instructors I have ever met. Due to his knowledge, teaching style and great personality I have learned how to help fellow students, labs, and projects effectively.”
Second year students, Gabriel Atienza-Norris and Anastasiia Slyvka, were awarded the Associate Dean’s Award of Excellence for the Computer Programming & Analysis program by Charles Kopun, Associate Dean, School of Media.
Atienza-Norris previously graduated from NC’s Hairstyling and Aesthetics program in 2016. His passion for learning new things propelled him to return to NC and embark on a new educational journey in an environment he feels is extremely inclusive and fulfilling.
“Being a student requires a lot of hard work and dedication but even through the stress of assignments and exams, I enjoyed every moment,” said Atienza-Norris. I feel extremely fortunate to have been selected for an award in a program that I’ve enjoyed so much. This award makes me excited for the opportunities my future holds.”
Charles Kopun, Associate Dean, School of Media, and students Gabriel Atienza-Norris and Anastasiia Slyvka after receiving the Associate Dean’s Award of Excellence.
Slyvka, who came to Canada from the Ukraine in 2016, also returned to NC to make a career change. When the pandemic caused instability in the tourism industry following her graduation from the Hotels and Restaurants Operations Diploma program in 2018, Slyvka leveraged lockdown as an opportunity to make a change in her life.
“I chose NC because the Computer Programming & Analysis program involves a lot of practice and group projects,” said Slyvka. It provides an opportunity for students to dive into a real-life, workforce environment and develop a combination of hard skills, communication, and leadership skills.”
Receiving the Associate Dean’s Award of Excellence helped solidify that Slyvka found a career that she truly loves and is passionate about.
“This award motivates me to continue working hard every day to become a better programmer and to continue pursuing my passions.”
