Tuesday, November 17, 2015
Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities
Celebrating Ontario's College Leaders
Province Recognizes Contributions of College Graduates
Ontario is celebrating college graduates for their work to improve the social and economic well-being of those in their communities and around the world.
Each year, Ontario recognizes college graduates in six categories who have made exceptional and lasting contributions. The 2015 Premier's Award recipients are:
- Marc Caira, Seneca College; for business
- Debbie Low, Durham College, for community services
- Jonathan Klassen, Sheridan College, for creative arts and design
- Marianne Walker, Conestoga College, for health sciences
- Benjamin Valliquette Kissell, George Brown College; for success as a recent graduate
- Jack J. Collins, St. Lawrence College; for technology.
Robert Gillett, a former president and CEO of Algonquin College, received the Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities' Lifetime Achievement Award for his hard work, dedication and contributions to Ontario's college system.
Supporting an innovative college system that provides students with the skills and training they need to enter the labour market is part of the government's economic plan to build Ontario up. The four-part plan builds Ontario up by investing in people's talents and skills, making the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario's history, creating a dynamic, innovative environment where business thrives, and building a secure retirement savings plan.
Quick Facts:
- In 2014, 84 per cent of Ontario college graduates found work within six months of graduating.
- Nearly 230,000 students were enrolled full-time at Ontario's 24 publicly funded colleges last year.
- With more than 18,000 full-time and 40,000 part-time students, Algonquin College is one of Ontario’s largest colleges.
Additional Resources:
Quotes:
"I’m proud that we have built a strong college system that provides students with the foundation they need to find jobs and contribute to society. The recipients of this year’s Premier’s Awards are examples of our college students’ incredible potential. Congratulations to the winners, who are making a difference at home and abroad."
— Kathleen Wynne, Premier of Ontario
"Robert Gillett has made an indelible mark on our province’s college system. It is an honour to present him with this award for his forward-thinking and leadership, which has helped to establish Algonquin College as a leader in the community, in the digital sphere and around the world. Through his hard work, he is truly making Ontario a better place to learn."
— Reza Moridi, Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities
Media Contacts:
Belinda Bien
Minister’s Office, Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities
647-823-5489
belinda.bien@ontario.ca
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