Labour market partnership research project for Bow Valley College

As you know, Bow Valley College has embraced its mandate to be Calgary and its surrounding region’s comprehensive community college. We have made tremendous strides in enhancing access to adult learning opportunities and career development throughout the service region and beyond with our growing network of partners.

There’s more to be done, and we need your support.

In an effort to assess the labour market, adult education, and career services needs of communities situated around Calgary, Bow Valley College has launched a major survey and research initiative, supported by the Government of Alberta and our adult education, civic, and industry partners.

Two surveys—one directed at employers and the other, the public at large—have been created to measure and assess community and labour market needs relative to adult education and training, career development, and employment services.

Members of the project team will be visiting communities in the region to promote and administer the survey in the weeks to come, and the college will roll out a media campaign to reach as many employers and households as possible.

As alumni of Bow Valley College, we need your help with spreading the word about these surveys to garner as much participation in communities around Calgary as possible. This project will help us create an up-to-date picture of current challenges facing communities in our service region and inform new strategies to enhance access to adult learning and career development opportunities. These community surveys can be completed online at http://www.bvcsurvey.ca/. Print copies are also available.

Every voice matters. Eligible respondents are those who live or work in communities situated around Calgary. If this includes you, consider participating as well as:

• Encouraging prospective or active students to participate in the survey
• Encouraging your peers to participate in the survey
• Inviting employers in your community to participate in the survey
• Promoting the survey website – http://www.bvcsurvey.ca/

The findings from the survey will be published in a report in May 2010. This report will be made public and will be used to guide decision-making of adult education providers and the Government of Alberta.

If you have questions about the project or need more information, please contact
Rachel Doe (403) 476-2205 rdoe@bowvalleycollege.ca or
Larissa Sommerfeld (403) 476-2204 lsommerfeld@bowvalleycollege.ca
Survey link: http://www.bvcsurvey.ca/

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,
Anna Kae Todd, Vice President, Learning

Bow Valley College

Tony Robbins is coming to Calgary ... special rates available for BVC Alumni

The Bow Valley College Alumni Association is pleased to announce that we have partnered up once again with The Power Within to offer BVC Alumni and friends special reduced rates on tickets to see Tony Robbins author of Awaken the Giant Within & Unlimited Power at the Telus Convention Centre on March 9, 2010.

Offer details:

Development & Learning Opportunity for Bow Valley College Alumni & Friends!

First 25 to Register will Receive a Free VIP Ticket Upgrade

Anthony Robbins
(Best Selling Author Awaken the Giant Within & Unlimited Power)
Live in Calgary, AB, March 9th • 9:00AM to 5:00PM
Calgary TELUS Convention Centre

The Power Within Inc. has arranged an “Early Bird’ corporate rate discount for members and guests of Bow Valley College Alumni Association to attend the Power Within event on Tuesday, March 9, 2010.

Tickets are available to Alumni and personal guests of Bow Valley College Alumni Association members. You are welcome to forward this invitation to your colleagues so that you can share the opportunity of seeing these dynamic speakers in person!

Speakers:
• Keynote - Anthony Robbins, World Authority on Leadership Psychology and Leading Your Organization in Times of Change (All New Material)
• Teresa Tapp, Creator of T-Tapp Workout and Author of Fit and Fabulous in 15 Minutes

• Mike Lipkin, President of Environics and Author of The Power to Persuade on Effective Communication & Peak Performance
• Phil Town, New York Times Best-Selling Author of Rule # 1 on Investment Strategies: Securing Your Financial Future
• Mitch Joel, E-Marketing and Personal Branding expert
• Lisa Daily, Best-Selling Author of Fifteen Minutes of Shame on Relationships: How to connect with others and create winning relationships at work

Bow Valley College Alumni registration discount:

For a limited time, members and guests of the Bow Valley College Alumni Association can register for this exciting Power Within session at a member rate of $189 plus GST (a $140 savings) or VIP seating for a member rate of $269 (a $126 savings)!

Added “Early Bird” Bonus: The first 25 registrants will receive a free VIP ticket upgrade!

Special Group Rate: Purchase 5 tickets and receive a complimentary 6th ticket. (Very Limited Time Offer)

To register call Peter toll free at: 1-866-883-5198

(Be sure to let Peter know that you are calling for the Bow Valley College Alumni registration rate)

Visa, MC or AMEX are acceptable forms of payment.

In order to receive your Bow Valley College Alumni Association registration discount, registrations must be done by telephone at 1-866-883-5198.

New benefit for Bow Valley Corridor alumni!

We are pleased to announce that The Mountain Pod in Canmore has partnered with the Bow Valley College Alumni Association to offer 15% off all 90 minute massage bookings and/or 4 free yoga classes with registration in an 8 week program. Drop in at: 105, 999 Bow Valley Trail in Canmore and use your Alumni benefit card to save!

If you do not have an alumni benefit card please contact the BVCAA office at alumni@bowvalleycollege.ca to request yours today!

Visit www.bowvalleycollege.ca/alumni for a complete list of BVC Alumni benefits.

What Not to Wear Fashion Show a hit!!!

On November 19, as the grande finale to Backpack to Briefcase week, the BVCAA hosted its first ever What Not to Wear to Work fashion show. Working TLC's What Not to Wear angle to the max, volunteers from BVC's Business and Industry department, Jean Hergert and Alan Frank, posed as show hosts "Casey" and "Trenton". Four additional friends and staff of BVC volunteered as what NOT to wear models by participating in a photoshoot which provided great images of inappropriate work attire that Casey and Trenton could critique before praising the chic student models.

Due to the generosity of the show's sponsors: Winners Canada, Changes Clothing and The Walk-in Closet the student models, who were business students who had been selected based on financial need, each got to keep the clothing that they modelled in the show - a great start to their professional wardrobes just in time for practicum! MC College also sent four student stylists to provide hair and make-up services for the models before the show.

Check out the video for a glimpse at the show ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xeLAJklLXmc

New offer for BVCAA members posted by BVC alumna

In response to a newly introduced initiative which enables BVC Alumni to promote their businesses* through the BVCAA, alumna Lanis Anderson of R & R Promotions is offering a special discount to BVC Alumni and Friends.

If you are interested in promoting your own business with eco-friendly products are made with sustainability in mind, take a closer look at R & R Promotions and save 15% just for being a BVCAA member!

*Businesses eligible for promotion by the BVCAA must have a BVC Alumni owner or employee and be approved by the Office of Alumni Relations at Bow Valley College.

H1N1 Virus Update to BVC Alumni

The second wave of the H1N1 influenza virus (2009) is currently hitting North America and continues to be present within the Calgary area, and while we do not need to be unduly alarmed, we do need to be prepared for the potential impact. Alberta has enough vaccine for every Albertan who needs and wants to be immunized. Those who need it most should get it as early as possible.

H1N1 influenza virus (2009) vaccine clinics will be available starting October 26, 2009 and will be open from 8:30AM to 8:00PM (Monday to Friday) and 8:30AM to 3:30PM (Saturday and Sunday). It will be available at four (4) locations and more information can be found on the Alberta Health Services website (http://www4.albertahealthservices.ca/Immunization/):

1. Avenida Village Unit 303, 12445 Lake Fraser Drive SE
2. Brentwood Village Mall Unit 302, 3630 Brentwood Road NW
3. EMS Whitehorn - North Side Entrance 100, 3705 - 35 Street NE
4. Richmond Road Diagnostic Treatment Centre 1820 Richmond Road SWUse entrance at south side of building off 20 Avenue SW.Calgary

Those who will benefit most from immunization include:
People under 65 with chronic health conditions and their caregivers.
Pregnant women.
Children six months to less than five years of age and their caregivers.
People living in remote and isolated settings or communities
Health care workers involved in pandemic response or the delivery of essential health care services.
Household contacts and care providers of persons at high risk who cannot be immunized or may not respond to vaccines.

What is the difference between adjuvanted and non-adjuvanted vaccine?
An adjuvant is a substance that is added to a vaccine in order to boost the individual's response. It also means that less of the actual virus or "antigen" is needed to make a dose of the vaccine.
Non-adjuvanted vaccine has no "booster" element, and more antigen is needed to create this kind of vaccine.
Non-adjuvanted vaccine is recommended for pregnant women and small children but both vaccines are considered equally safe. Alberta's Chief Medical Officer of Health agrees with the advice of PHAC - that the adjuvant is safe, and the risks posed to pregnant women who get the flu are far, far greater than any the vaccine may pose.

Does AHW recommend the adjuvanted vaccine for pregnant women?
Alberta's Chief Medical Officer of Health agrees with the advice of the Public Health Agency of Canada - that pregnant women receive one dose of an unadjuvanted vaccine wherever possible.
However, in cases where unajuvanted vaccine is not available, and rates of pandemic influenza disease is high, women in the second half of their pregnancy (more than 20 weeks) should be offered adjuvanted vaccine.

Once approved by Health Canada, both H1N1 vaccines will be considered equally safe.
Ultimately, this is a personal choice for women – Alberta Health Services recommends getting your shot as soon as possible.

How is H1N1 influenza virus (2009) different from seasonal influenza?
There are many strains of influenza circulating each year during the influenza season, and most people have some degree of immunity from previous exposure to related strains. The yearly influenza vaccine provides protection against the three most common strains identified during the previous season. This season, H1N1 influenza virus (2009) is expected to be the predominant strain.

H1N1 influenza virus (2009) is an entirely new strain of the influenza virus to which people do not have any immunity - and therefore is the priority for mass immunization. All Albertans over six months of age will have access to the H1N1 influenza virus (2009) influenza vaccine, expected in mid-November.

The most important factors in controlling the spread of the virus, according to Alberta Health and Wellness, are early identification and self-isolation of individuals exhibiting symptoms of the H1N1 influenza virus (2009), and promotion of self-care practices such as cough/sneeze etiquette and frequent hand cleansing with soap and warm water. In areas where soap and water are not readily available, the use of hand sanitizers is recommended.

Symptoms of the H1N1 influenza virus (2009) in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal influenza infection and include:
Fever
Cough
Muscle aches
Lethargy
Lack of appetite

Some people with the H1N1 influenza virus (2009) have also reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea in addition to a cough and fever symptoms. The vast majority of cases have recovered completely.

Bow Valley College is adhering to guidelines outlined by Alberta Health Services. This message is intended to inform alumni of their options for protection against the H1N1 virus.

PERSONAL SAFETY REMINDER

It that time of year again where darkness falls before most of us finish our work day, so we would to remind alumni of a few tips concerning personal safety and security:

Where possible, do not walk alone.

Use only well-lit, well-travelled, and highly visible areas. Never use “shortcuts” such as alleyways, abandoned lots, or narrow passageways between buildings.

Always be aware of your surroundings.

Don’t plug into electronic devices such as I-pods.

Don’t display your wallet or attractive items such as I-pods.

Carry purses close to your body.

When travelling late at night, or very early in the morning, ensure that someone else knows your schedule and expected time of arrival. Set up a check-in time if necessary.

Carry a cell phone if you have one.

Remember, all C-Train stations and cars have emergency call boxes.

If an individual, group, or situation makes you uncomfortable, or if you feel that you are being followed, immediately proceed to a public area with high visibility and other people.

If someone verbally or physically threatens your personal safety, the police advise that you make as much noise as possible, immediately leave the area, seek help, and contact the police as soon as it is safe to do so.

Do not give money to panhandlers or engage in conversations with them.

Always park vehicles in highly visible and public locations. Where possible, park in lots with attendants and on-site security. Do not park in alleys, behind buildings, or areas that are screened from public view.

HUGE Fall Garage Sale hosted by the Calgary Association of Self Help, October 30 & 31

Living in Calgary isn’t cheap.

We all know people in our communities at work, school and church who are struggling to create comfortable homes for their families.

You don’t have to be wealthy to make an immediate impact on the everyday lives of others in need. Let everyone know about the household items, toys, dishes, bedding, kitchen appliances, furniture and thousands of quality used books being sold for very modest prices at

Calgary Association of Self Help’s HUGE Fall Garage Sale

Friday October 30th (11 am – 5 pm)
Saturday October 31st (10 am – 3 pm)

1019 7th Avenue SW

Not only can you save yourself money, you are encouraged to shop on behalf of those who are most in need but can’t attend due to physical, financial or social challenges.

Enjoy FREE parking behind the building during the sale.
The10th Street City Centre Station is right out front.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Cory Wilson, Fund Development/Communications Officer
Phone 403-266-8711 ext. 247
Email cory.wilson@calgaryselfhelp.com

Interior Decorating and Merchandising Alumnus Alykhan Velji Launches Afera Carpet Line for Rug Shop

Best known for his roles on CityTV’s My Rona Home and HGTV’s Style Department, Alykhan Velji is expanding his design work once again by launching a new line of carpets for Rug Shop. Inspired by motifs found in Islamic architecture, Velji’s Afera collection of hand knotted Nepalese carpets merge traditional geometric design and the modern, bold style he is known for.
Jamie Yamchuk, owner of Rug Shop, approached the Calgary-based interior designer with the idea to create a signature line earlier this year. “I’ve always dreamed of creating my own product line,” says Velji, “and this partnership with Rug Shop is the next step in reaching that goal.”
Afera, is an Islamic name meaning “Colour of Earth.” The bright colours and untraditional placement of the motifs are a modern twist on traditional Islamic design. Made outside of Katmandu, Nepal, each rug is hand-knotted and made of 100% New Zealand lamb’s wool.
“I love the idea of blending old and new styles to create something original and dynamic. Canada is full of contrast and I wanted to develop a line reflective of that.” Velji, a Tanzanian Canadian moved to Calgary when he was eight. Now, at 29, Velji has been working for himself for the last seven years on both commercial and residential interior design projects.
For more information on products visit http://www.rugshopcalgary.com/ or contact Jason Krell at jk@jasonkrell.ca or 403.862.7380.

Third Annual International Thanksgiving for Alumni a great success!

On Tuesday, October 6 the Bow Valley College Alumni Association hosted its 3rd Annual International Thanksgiving for Alumni. The event began in 2007 in an effort to connect with the large International community that are alumni members. The idea to share a traditional Canadian Thanksgiving meal as a way of bringing alumni from many different nationalities and cultures together in a celebration of thanks has caught on, in its three years the event has more than doubled in attendance from 32 guests in 2007 to 72 in 2009.

In past years each guest was given the opportunity to share their message of thanks with the entire room, an activity that created a powerful sense of perspective on our collective thanfulness for everyone in attendance. As the event has grown, the opportunity for everyone to share has become limited so this year a Wishing Tree was brought in that guests were encouraged to hang a note with their blessings for 2009 on. A video which included messages of thanks from Bow Valley College alumni, learners and staff was also shown at the dinner as ways to maintain the sense of perspective from other years.

The following messages were placed on the Wishing Tree throughout the evening:

• Please accept my special thanks for all the event holders and volunteers. Happy Thanksgiving!


• I am thankful to Bow Valley College and my family.


• Thank you so much, you are a great team!


• WEIP is a really successful program!


• I'm thankful for the opportunity each day to learn about people, the world we live in and how to make the world better for all of us.


• New family, new job, new friends, and old friends. I am very thankful as 2009 has been a great year for me.


• Thank you for everything you have done for us, you (BVC) have really changed my life.


• Thanks for giving me the opportunity to participate in CRTP. It gave me a lot of new knowledge about job search and communication.


• Thank you for a perfect dinner!


• Great thanks to all (BVC) teachers and directors. I am very happy being with you and feel like a family member.


• Thank you for life, health, happiness, a lot of money, love, kindness, direction.


• I am thankful for God for all the blessings I have and thanks for you (BVC) and my family.


• I am thankful for my learners in the IPNDIEN program and my family.


• Thank you Canada you gave us this opportunity to make you our new homeland.


• I am thankful for the opportunity to work with amazing people in the CRTP program.


• I am thankful for the “I love you mom” messages that my son leaves on my voicemail, I am thankful for being part of a large extended family, I am thankful for the warm summer we just had.Thank you BVC, my classmates and my family.


• Staying healthy and enjoying my family.


• Thank you for my lovely husband. Thank you for my mother, sister, aunts. Thank you for my friends old and new. Thank you for my job and boss. Thank you for my health. Thank you for my prosperity. Thank you God for being always with me.


• Thank you Bow Valley College CRTP, I learned lots from CRTP.


• Thank you for a wonderful night.


• I am thankful for attaining CHRP status, for my family, for my daughter and wife, for being alive to witness another spring, for good health and successful completion of the CRTP program.


• A special thank you to all CRTP team for a great support encouragement and teaching. Happy Thanksgiving.


• I am glad for my family and to be a part of the LPN program.


• Thank you very much for a nice event. Happy Thanksgiving to all of you.


• I wish Calgarian’s will have a nice Tanksgiving dinner with food on their tables.


• I thank God for my family, my health, and all my opportunities.I am thankful for the opportunity to raise and love a group of people and animals that I call family.


• I am also grateful to have God in my life.


• I am thankful for wonderful friends, and family.


• I am thankful for my health and this wonderful country we live in.Thank you Bow Valley College, I am wishing for all of you , what I'm wishing for me, follow your dreams!


• Thank you for a wonderful dinner, great party and the Bow Valley College LPN program.


• Thankful for family, friends. Life , Love , Laughter.


• I am thankful for everything God has given me in my life. My family, parents, my career, and for my new country which I call my home. Also thanks to Bow Valley College and all the wonderful people I met here.


• I am thankful for my family, friends. Health, home and job. Happy Thanksgiving.


• There are a lot of things I'm thankful for:family, friends and an awesome life.


• Thank You Bow Valley College for helping make these things possible.


• So nice to meet with previous classmates. I hope this tradition will go on.


• I am thankful that my family and I are all well and happy regardless of the fact we all live in separate areas of the world.


• I am thankful for being able to attend BVC and meet the fabulous people there. It is such a blessing to meet and be a part of Alumni. Colleen and Amanda are amazing people.


• Thanks you Bow Valley College for giving me the chance to get in my career.

Many thanks to all those who contributed to the Wishing Tree. Happy Thanksgiving to all!

Follow the BVCAA on Twitter and Facebook ...

The BVCAA has started making regular updates on Twitter and keeping alumni in the loop regarding programs, benefits, services, volunteer opportunities and events through the Facebook Fan Page.



Why, you ask ...



The BVCAA is making every effort to maintain a "green" communications strategy and tools such as Facebook and Twitter allow us to reach you, our alumni, with instant updates regarding information that benefits is of interest to you as BVC Alumni. The purpose of using these mediums is to maintain our connection to alumni without invading your email inboxes every time there is a a program or event announcement to be made. The BVCAA will continue to maintain the Alumni Insider Blog with general interest stories and announcements, links to these blog posts and time sensitive announcements will be managed through Facebook and Twitter.



We will still use our email distribution list for promotion of these new mediums, large announcements and invitations. If you have any comments, questions or concerns about this strategy please contact the BVCAA at alumni@bowvalleycollege.ca or 403-355-4666

Using your alumni benefits - TD Insurance Meloche Monnex

Being an alumnus means having access to valuable benefits and savings. Read below to find out how you can save money on insurance.

WHO
TD Insurance Meloche Monnex Canada’s largest direct writer insuring alumni and professionals for over 60 years!

WHAT
Preferred group rates on Automobile, Residential, Travel and Small Business Insurance for Bow Valley College Alumni.

WHERE
Online: www.melochemonnex.com/bvc
Phone: 1-800-339-1847
In person: Calgary, 125 9 Ave SE or Edmonton, 10025 102 A Ave NW

WHEN
Online – 24 hours
By phone - 8 am to 8 pm every weekday
In person – 8 am to 5 pm every weekday

WHY
Competitive group rates and many additional discounts available.
Unique auto products such as 5 Year Replacement Cost, Grand Touring Solution, Zero Deductibles, Accident Forgiveness and more.
Broadest range of residential insurance options available for homeowners, tenants and condo owners, as well as Identity Theft and 5 Million Dollar Solution.
Dedicated customer service analysts available to take your call or file your claim.
Providing an expiry date or getting a quote enters you to win “one of four trips to paradise” ($15,000 each)


*In 2009 BVC Alumna Christine Marston won the grand prize of $50,000.00 ... it could happen to you!

HOW
Quotes can be completed online, in person or by phone in as little as 15 minutes. Policies may also be purchased over the phone for your convenience.

To make the process as efficient as possible, have the following information handy prior to calling for a quote or filling out the online request:

For automobile quotes:
§ A copy of your existing policy and/or
§ Year, make, model and serial (VIN) number
§ Names, ages and license numbers of all drivers in your household
§ Previous insurance history and accidents and convictions if applicable
§ For more helpful auto insurance tips click here or see http://www.roadsafetyfirst.com/



For residential quotes:


§ A copy of your existing policy and/or
§ Address of the property and year built
§ Square feet or square meters of the residence
§ Existing coverage on the property if applicable
§ For more helpful residential insurance tips click here

Money saving tips

Automobile glass coverage is usually included but may be limited to save some premium.

Coverage for rental vehicles is available for a low yearly rate rather than the daily rate through the rental agency.

When parking a seasonal vehicle for longer periods, suspend your coverage rather than cancelling your policy, this will ensure you have no gaps in your insurance history which could cause you to pay more in the future.

Choosing a higher deductible will lower your premium.

Combining your home and auto insurance or even multiple vehicles with the same insurer will give you a discount.

Monitored fire and security alarms will save money on your home insurance.

Take these great tips and get a quote using the BVC Alumni Advantage today!!!

Using your Alumni benefits - Continuing Education discount

Did you know that as a member of the BVCAA you are entitled to a 10% discount on a long list of Continuing Education courses at Bow Valley College? All you have to do is show your alumni card when you register and you will get the automatic discount!

This special benefit gives you an opportunity to return to learning for less.

The following courses are eligible for discounts ranging from $8.00 - $69.50 per course this Fall (click on image to enlarge):

Power Within for Women - special rates for BVC Alumni!!!

Bow Valley College
Special Alumni Offer!

The Power of Women Series Presents

Barbara Walters, Erin Brockovich & Loretta LaRoche!
Live in Calgary, AB, September 18th, 2009 • 9:30AM to 4:30PM*
Calgary TELUS Convention Centre

Dear Alumni,

The Power of Women event will be presented in Calgary on September 18th, 2009 at the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre. This event features an extraordinary line up of diverse guest speakers and promises to be a tremendous learning and networking opportunity for you and your guests!

Alumni and guests of Bow Valley College are eligible to receive a corporate discount. A block of tickets have been set aside for Bow Valley College alumni and their guests.

See these dynamic speakers in person!

Barbara Walters, ABC News correspondent; “The Barbara Walters Specials”; Creator, co-host and executive producer of ABC Daytime’s “The View” on Leadership
Erin Brockovich, Environmental activist, motivational speaker , television host and producer on Corporate Social Responsibility
Loretta LaRoche, Best Selling Author, Stress Management Consultant on Life Is Short – Wear Your party Pants (Stress Management)
Jean Chatzky, Best Selling Author, “Make Money, Not Excuses” on Finance

Bow Valley College Alumni Discount:

For a limited time, alumni and guests of Bow Valley College can register for The Power of Women session at a corporate rate of $189 plus GST/SC ($140 savings off the regular rate of $329)

Group Rate: A Great Team Building & Client Hosting Experience!

Purchase 5 tickets and receive a complimentary 6th ticket. (Very Limited Time Offer)To Register Call Ryan Toll Free 1-866-886-4775

Please contact The Power Within Inc., the company coordinating the event, to reserve your tickets. Call toll-free at 1-866-886-4775 and be sure to let Ryan know that you are calling for the Bow Valley College alumni rate. Visa, MC or AMEX are acceptable forms of payment.

For more details, please visit http://www.powerwithin.com/pdf/Calgary_POW_2009_RM.pdf
Ask about VIP tickets, includes a preferred seating area. Corporate rate is $269 (regular rate $395).

In order to receive the Bow Valley College corporate discount, registrations must be done by telephone Toll Free 1-866-886-4775. Online registrations do not qualify for a discount.

Please forward this invitation to your colleagues and guests because as a guest of yours, they will be able to take advantage of this special offer!
All sales are final. Tickets are transferable. Please add $5 service charge per transaction.

BVCAA hosts first Aboriginal alumni reunion

On June 20, 2009 the BVCAA and Bow Valley College Aboriginal Centre co-hosted the first official Aboriginal alumni event in the College's history. Keynote and alumnus, Roy Bear Chief, spoke about his own educational journey and commended his fellow alumni for reaching their own personal and educational goals.

Alumna Charmaine Bressette inspired guests with her own story about struggling in school early on and coming to the College for Academic Upgrading after realizing that her own children would need her to help them through their studies. Once back in school, with the support of the staff and faculty at the Aboriginal campus, Charmaine was inspired to continue and graduated with her Education Assistant Certificate in June 2009. Charmaine plans to start work in the Fall and continue her studies in Behavioural Support so that she can specialize in her field.


The event was composed of a variety of elements meant to honour and celebrate the traditions of Aboriginal (First Nations, Metis and Inuit) alumni, including: a grand entry, blessing by elder Patricia Breaker, Pow Wow dance demonstrations, and traditional Metis dance performances. The afternoon ended with a round dance which started with a circle of alumni and grew to include all those in attendance.

The BVCAA and Aboriginal Centre look forward to making an annual tradition of celebrating the College's connection with the Aboriginal community and bringing our alumni back full circle.

Alumnus Roy Bear Chief inspires guests with keynote speech

Premier Stelmach digs into South Campus construction site

Premier Ed Stelmach jumped into a backhoe and deftly manoeuvred the controls, digging the bucket into the ground where South Campus will stand.
Bow Valley College (BVC) held a groundbreaking ceremony yesterday, marking the first dirt shoveled at the construction site.

Premier Ed Stelmach brings greetings from the Province of Alberta yesterday, during Bow Valley College's groundbreaking ceremony for South Campus.
“It’s wonderful to be here to help start a new chapter in education for Alberta,” said Premier Stelmach. “There’s no question a strong, knowledge-based economy is what will bring our province continued success — and even greater success in the future.
“Our potential lies within the mind and between the hands of our students, whom I had the opportunity to meet earlier. It is so important they have the opportunity to make their educational dreams a reality.”

Premier Ed Stelmach brings greetings from the Province of Alberta yesterday,

during Bow Valley College's groundbreaking ceremony for South Campus.

South Campus, a $193-million endeavour, will add to BVC 144,000 square feet of space on four fully developed floors. The project, funded by Alberta Advanced Educaton and Technology, BVC, and the City of Calgary, also allows for three additional floors to accommodate future growth needs.
With construction due to start in August, South Campus willopen in 2013 and provide street-level access from the C-train to career development and placement services, a bookstore, and the Aboriginal Centre.
It also will house classrooms, study areas and student gathering spaces, executive and administrative offices, plus three floors of expansion space which will be available for use by several academic partners. This afternoon, Bow Valley College will sign a memorandum of understanding with University of Lethbridge to explore opportunities for future use of a portion of space, shared program development, and transfer/articulation agreements
“Those familiar with the history of Bow Valley College will know that when we started in the early 1960s, we not only fought hard for classroom space, but also for our very existence, our place in the post-secondary landscape within the city and the province,” said Sharon Carry, BVC President and CEO.
“In the years since, the clear, long-term vision of our founders about adult learners has been proven right time and again. As a result we now find ourselves with a wonderful challenge — the challenge of keeping up with demand of our services.”
Applications to BVC programs have increased dramatically for the September 2009 trimester.
In conjunction with the redevelopment of North Campus, the South Campus construction confirms BVC’s reputation as a good steward of the environment in which learning takes place, Sharon said.
The province, Premier Stelmach added, needs the skills individuals will have following their graduation from BVC.
“The College is helping to ensure today’s and tomorrow’s work force will have the skills employers are looking for,” he said. “This expansion promises to give even more students the opportunity to access the education they want and the education they need — right in the heart of the city.”
Board of Governors Chair Scott Thon, BVC alumni Joshua Curly Rider, Kainai Nation Elder John Chiefmoon Sr. and City of Calgary Deputy Mayor Linda Fox-Mellway also took part in the groundbreaking ceremony.
For more information on today’s groundbreaking ceremony, find links to the news release and the archive of today’s live webcast on our expansion news page.

John Chiefmoon Sr., an Elder with Kainai Nation, blesses the future site of Bow Valley College's South Campus.

Re-posted with the permission of Marketing and Communications at Bow Valley College


For more College news go to The Current

The Power Within for Women - Special Rates for BVC/AVC Alumni!!!

Bow Valley College
Special Alumni Offer!

The Power of Women Series Presents ...

Barbara Walters, Erin Brockovich & Loretta LaRoche!
Live in Calgary, AB, September 18th, 2009 • 9:30AM to 4:30PM*
Calgary TELUS Convention Centre

Dear Alumni,

The Power of Women event will be presented in Calgary on September 18th, 2009 at the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre. This event features an extraordinary line up of diverse guest speakers and promises to be a tremendous learning and networking opportunity for you and your guests!

Alumni and guests of Bow Valley College are eligible to receive a corporate discount. A block of tickets have been set aside for Bow Valley College alumni and their guests.

See these dynamic speakers in person!

Barbara Walters, ABC News correspondent; “The Barbara Walters Specials”; Creator, co-host and executive producer of ABC Daytime’s “The View” on Leadership
Erin Brockovich, Environmental activist, motivational speaker , television host and producer on Corporate Social Responsibility
Loretta LaRoche, Best Selling Author, Stress Management Consultant on Life Is Short – Wear Your party Pants (Stress Management)
Jean Chatzky, Best Selling Author, “Make Money, Not Excuses” on Finance

Bow Valley College Alumni Discount:

For a limited time, alumni and guests of Bow Valley College can register for The Power of Women session at a corporate rate of $189 plus GST/SC ($140 savings off the regular rate of $329)

Group Rate: A Great Team Building & Client Hosting Experience!

Purchase 5 tickets and receive a complimentary 6th ticket. (Very Limited Time Offer)To Register Call Ryan Toll Free 1-866-886-4775

Please contact The Power Within Inc., the company coordinating the event, to reserve your tickets. Call toll-free at 1-866-886-4775 and be sure to let Ryan know that you are calling for the Bow Valley College alumni rate. Visa, MC or AMEX are acceptable forms of payment.

For more details, please visit http://www.powerwithin.com/pdf/Calgary_POW_2009_RM.pdf
Ask about VIP tickets, includes a preferred seating area. Corporate rate is $269 (regular rate $395).

In order to receive the Bow Valley College corporate discount, registrations must be done by telephone Toll Free 1-866-886-4775. Online registrations do not qualify for a discount.

Please forward this invitation to your colleagues and guests because as a guest of yours, they will be able to take advantage of this special offer!
All sales are final. Tickets are transferable. Please add $5 service charge per transaction

BVC Welcomes Alumni to celebrate National Aboriginal Day

BVC welcomes alumni to celebrateNational Aboriginal Day, June 21

CALGARY—Bow Valley College (BVC) is putting out a call to all of its First Nations, Métis, and Inuit alumni. It’s time to celebrate and honour the College’s Aboriginal connections with the first BVC-AVC Aboriginal Alumni Reunion on Saturday, June 20.

BVC’s reunion—welcoming graduates from Bow Valley and Alberta Vocational colleges—precedes National Aboriginal Day on Sunday, the highlight event of Canada’s National Aboriginal History Month.

“Our institution has a long, rich history with the surrounding Aboriginal communities and we want to honour the generations of alumni who have chosen Bow Valley College – or AVC – as the catalyst for enriching their own lives through education,” says Alumni Relations Coordinator Colleen Bangs.

“I look forward to meeting and hearing the stories that our Aboriginal alumni will bring to this reunion.”

The reunion will feature keynote speaker Roy Bear Chief, a BVC Academic Upgrading alumnus. Bear Chief, a member of the Siksika Nation Council, was a 2004 grand category winner in Distinguished Service in the Provincial Awards Celebrating Excellence and went on to attain his diploma in social work from Mount Royal College and then bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from University of Calgary.

The program will feature First Nations’ powwow dances, traditional Métis dancing by the Acuna Dancers, and the Sorrel Rider Drum Group with Frank Turning Robe. Other distinguished alumni taking part in the program include Patricia Breaker, Elder; Teresa O’Krane, Academic Foundations valedictorian of BVC’s Class of Winter 2008; and Sandra Crazy Bull.

What: First BVC/AVC Aboriginal Alumni Reunion
Where: Inglewood Community Association
1740 24 Avenue SE
When: Saturday, June 20
11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

All Bow Valley College (and AVC) Aboriginal Alumni are invited!

The BVCAA and the Aboriginal Centre at Bow Valley College are pleased to be partnering up to co-host an honouring celebration for Bow Valley College (and AVC) Alumni.

Are you Métis, First Nations or Inuit and attended Bow Valley College (or AVC)? If so we are looking for YOU!

The Aboriginal Centre and Alumni Association at Bow Valley College would like all Aboriginal Alumni to the first BVC/AVC Aboriginal Alumni Reunion on Saturday, June 20 at the Inglewood Community Association 1740 – 24 Avenue SE from 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

The event will include a program of distinguished Aboriginal Alumni speakers, traditional First Nations and Métis dancers and a buffet lunch.

Please RSVP to alumni@bowvalleycollege.ca by June 15, 2009 – feel free to extend the invitation to other Aboriginal Alumni that you know who attending AVC or Bow Valley College (include their names in your RSVP).

The Bow Valley College Alumni Association (BVCAA) has partnered with the Calgary Vipers

This season the Calgary Vipers will be hitting home runs and entertaining Calgary baseball fans for their fifth season. In celebration of this landmark year the BVCAA has partnered up with the Vipers and alumni are now eligible for special rates to all home games*.

"We offer great entertainment at a price that families can afford", says John Conrad - Calgary Vipers President.

It is this type of family-centered thinking that led the BVCAA to partner with the team. "We want to give our alumni the opportunity to get out in a family-friendly atmosphere, the Vipers offer this environment and an amazing team to cheer for", says Colleen Bangs - Alumni Coordinator at Bow Valley College, "The Vipers organization, like the BVCAA, is working to grow its reach in the community. This partnership is a good opportunity for the BVCAA and the Vipers to extend their reach while working together."

The BVCAA will be hosting an Alumni tent at the August 5 home game at Foothills Stadium. 100 tickets will be made available to alumni in mid July. If you are interested in attending watch for details next month!!!

*BVC Alumni can present their alumni benefit card at the Vipers ticket booth to receive: 4 tickets for the price of 3 (any section) or student pricing on single tickets (any section). For more details go to: www.bowvalleycollege.ca/alumni and look in the benefits section.

National Partnership to Train Immigrant Professionals meets Workforce Needs

Bow Valley College (Calgary) in partnership with Vancouver Community College and Seneca College (Toronto) will be launching a new training program, Success in the Workplace, to up-skill working immigrant professionals who want to be more competitive and effective in the workplace.
Success in the Workplace; Communication and Business Skills Training for Immigrant Professionals, will target the areas that are often a barrier for skilled Immigrant Professionals in reaching their career goals. The program will work with foreign trained professionals including Engineers, Accountants, Geologists, Bankers, Architects, and Chemists. Using the Essential Skills framework as identified by Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) as the basis for program development, participants will build skills in Oral Communication, Writing, Critical Thinking, and Working with Others. Through the use of case studies and simulation activities, participants will be coached in giving feedback, making presentations, communicating clearly and accurately, and finally writing professionally.
Conrad Murphy, Director of TOWES (Test of Workplace Essential Skills) and the Centre for Career Advancement at Bow Valley College, is enthusiastic about the potential of this program. “In order to have a competitive workforce now and into the future, Canada needs to address key gaps in this workforce. For years, we have advocated to our highly educated immigrant students that ongoing training and development is required to progress in the workplace. The Success in the Workplace Program will provide them the opportunity to continue on with their skills development.”
The unique aspects of this 16-week program are:
· A blended approach to training that includes both classroom and on-line instruction that will facilitate time flexibility on-line combined with face to face coaching and training in class.
· Employer participation that gives students real workplace feedback.
· Funding and support from the Government of Canada’s Office of Literacy and Essential Skills, HRSDC which has invested into the development of the curriculum and the launch of the pilot in September 2009. The pilot will be free of charge for participants.
· Recognition of the ongoing need for continuous learning and skill building within the population of Immigrant professionals who are working and contributing but not yet realizing their potential.
For further information www.bowvalleycollege.ca/crtp or email Laurel Madro: lmadro@bowvalleycollege.ca
Ted Hougham: thougham@vcc.ca or Amy Koning: Amy.Koning@seneca.on.ca

Job Search Jump Start by BVCWorks

In light of the current economic situation, BVCWorks is aiming to equip graduates of our career programs with the skills, tools, and support to successfully navigate the job search process. The target audience is students who have completed a career program and have not been employed out of the practicum experience in their specialization.

Overview:
· Format: mix of small and large group activities, computer lab time, and practice exercises
o 5 – 12 students per Jump Start session
o Ideally students would be clustered into session by career area – Administration, Business, Health Care, Human Services
· When: For the first run of Job Search Jump Start, BVCWorks is planning
o June 22 – 25, & June 29, 2009, 9:00 am - 11:00 am
o June 26, 2009, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm for Mock Interviews – each participant will be present for two hours during that day
o 9:00 am – 11:00 am July 6, 13, 20 and 27 for Job Search Club support
· Where: Main Campus, divided between classroom and computer lab

Outline:

June 22-26:

Day 1: Resumes (2 hours with optional 3rd hour of coaching available in computer lab)

Day 2: Cover Letters (2 hours with optional 3rd hour of coaching available in computer lab)

Day 3: Finding Leads (2 hours)

Day 4: Preparing for the Interview(2 hours)

Day 5: Mock Interviews (2 hours – 1 hour being interviewed, 1 hour on interview panel)

June 29:

Day 6: Creating your Game Plan (2 hours)

July 6 and following Mondays:
Job Search Club (2 hours - 1 week after Day 6)

For additional information please email: bvcworks@bowvalleycollege.ca

Learner success translates into academic awards

Bow Valley College (BVC) is giving out $162,000 in awards and scholarships.
The awards, said BVC President and CEO Sharon Carry, are an important part of student success.
“Studies have shown,” she said, “student awards and scholarships encourage learner persistence. That means they’re more likely to complete their program and excel in their studies if their work is acknowledged.”
The scholarships and awards recognize academic excellence, student leadership, and/or financial need.
Three students — Renee Clement, Correctional Studies; Jennifer Herman, Correctional Studies; and Oumria Simoussa, Academic Upgrading, received the Ralph and Colleen Klein Scholarship, valued at $1,682 each.
The Cal Wenzel Family Foundation Awards, each valued at $5,000, recognize learners in the Business and Industry Department who set an example of leadership. The recipients were Sherry Atlan, Interior Decorating and Merchandising; Borislav Denchev, Business Administration; Laura Isturiz, Business Administration; Kerri Marin, Events Management; Medini Prasai, Business Adminsitration; and Whitney Shackleford, Dental Business Assistant.
Trico Homes generously sponsors $5,000 awards to English as a Second Language students. The Adopt-a-Student Entrance Award, a Calgary Sun post-secondary initiative, was awarded to ESL students who transitioned into career programs. The recipients were Stephanie Ingram, Interior Decorating and Merchandising, and Abdulkhaleq, Accounting and Financial Management. Two students — Lily Hu and Khamis Jeanro, both of ESL and Languages programs — receive $5,000 awards from Trico Homes for enrolling in career programs, following success in their ESL programs.
Richard Gotfried of Trico presented the award, noting Khamis spoke no English when he arrived in Canada.
“He is now transitioning into basic education,” Richard said, “but I think he’s far beyond that after my discussions with him. He is a peer role model in his community and we know he will continue to touch the lives of others in the future.”
Sharon sponsored two President’s Awards, each valued at $2,000 and recognizing a ‘natural leader and positive role model who selflessly supports fellow students.’ The award recipients — Stephanie Wilson, Events Management, and Brandy Michelle McCune, Practical Nurse — value teamwork, exemplify ethical behaviour, and advance the greater good.
Sharon recognized Stephanie, about whom you can more here, as a respected role model in her Business and Industry program.
“She has a strong foundation in communciation, leadership, and organizational skills and she understands the importance of cultivating strong interpersonal relationships,” Sharon said.
The Celebrating Student Futures ceremony, held at the Calgary Chamber of Commerce, is unique because the donors and sponsors sit with the students who receive the awards.
Sharon thanked the donors and sponsors for their contributions for learner success at BVC.
“Because of these awards, Bow Valley College is a place of learning with doors wide open,” she said. “Thank you for being here and for seeing the effect of your involvement in BVC.”
BVC Board of Governors President Scott Thon echoed Sharon’s words, noting donors and sponsors allow the College to provide learners with an opportunity to achieve success.
“If you ask any one of our students what really makes it possible to achieve, you would hear about support network — of their family, their peers, their instructors,” he said. “And of course, there is each student’s own drive and determination.
“But I believe it is that unexpected benefit — like a scholarship or grant — that gives them an extra boost. It is a vote of confidence that says their hard work has paid off … that we all believe they have done something worthwhile, that we have a lot of faith in what their plan is for society.
“Thank you for showing us we really can change someone’s world.”

Posted with the persmission of Marketing and Communications at Bow Valley College
Written by Angela MacIsaac, Media Relations Coordinator, Bow Valley College

Celebrating Countless Contributions

Last month Bow Valley College Education Assistant learner, Kelly Batt, wrote a letter to Mayor Bronconnier about the work that Education Assistants do each day in schools all over Calgary. As a result the City of Calgary has officially recognized today, May 6, 2009, as Education Assistant Day.

In celebration of this special day the Bow Valley College Alumni Association, Calgary Board of Education and Foothills Academy are sponsoring a recognition event for Education Assistants. This is the second annual celebration for Education Assistants and it is expected that over 100 Education Assistants from across the city will be in attendance.

If you work with, or have a child who is supported by an Education Assistant please take a moment today to tell them that they are appreciated – today is a day to celebrate the countless contributions that Education Assistants make every day in our education system!

Calling all LPN Alumni from AVC and BVC!

The BVCAA is doing it again ... we are running a contest to send two lucky Practical Nursing Alumni to the Spring CLPNA conference at the Telus Convention Centre on April 16 & 17, 2009. The winners will receive a full registration package that includes all meals, sessions and the gala dinner on April 16. To enter just click on the following survey link and answer a few short questions about alumni engagement and how this conference will benefit you.

Enter here

Winners will be announced on Thursday, April 9 - all entries received before 9:00 a.m. Thursday, April 9 will be entered to win!!!

March Career Madness at Bow Valley College

The BVCAA has partnered up with BVCWorks and the recruitment office to present a two and a half week career tool-kit extravaganza!

The series of events kicked off on March 5 with a Career Fair for Health Care Professionals at Franklin Station Campus, hosted by BVCWorks. Day two (March 6) at Main Campus the College staged its first Career Exploration Day combined with the Spring Open House. The event hosted a tradeshow to showcase the programs and services available at Bow Valley College, and was supplemented by a panel presentation with BVC faculty, students and alumni, and special workshops focused on choosing a career and funding options at BVC. Throughout the day, for the first time ever at BVC, a live Twitter feed was being monitored for questions and comments from prospective students and alumni who were unable to attend.

This week BVCWorks is hosting Career Week, March 9 – 13, which includes a variety of employment focused activities, such as drop-in resume and networking workshops open to students and alumni.


To round out March Career Madness the BVCAA will once again be offering Backpack to Briefcase sessions through until the 19th of March:




Monday, March 16 – Mock Interviews: Co-sponsored by BVCWorks, Career Connection and the BVCAA, Main Campus, Room 603, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (each appointment will be 20 minutes in length) Make an appointment today!

Tuesday, March 17 – Face the Fear of Public Speaking – BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!!! Facilitated by Jeff Jewett, Main Campus, Room 603, Noon – 1:00 p.m. Reserve your seat today!

Thursday, March 19 – Let’s Talk Taxes, facilitated by Alan Frank, Room 603, Noon – 1:00 p.m. Reserve your seat today!

2nd Annual Legal Assistant Networking Reception a hit!

On February 19, long time donor and advocate for Bow Valley College, Liz Smith, sponsored the 2nd Annual Legal Assistant Alumni Networking Reception at the Bow Valley Club in Calgary. In attendance were current students, alumni and instructors from the Legal Assistant Diploma program at Bow Valley College along with staff from the BVCAA and Liz Smith & Associates.

In the current economic times placement services, such as those offered by Liz Smith & Associates, are holding their ground as important players in the search for a gainful employment. Liz addressed the guests with words of encouragement and an offer to act as a resource for anyone who had questions or concerns about their career as a Legal Assistant.

Elza Bruk, Dean of Business and Industry, gave a welcome from the College and presented Smith with an engraved frame with a photograph of the guests from the 2008 event. "Look around the room", said Bruk, "the people around you are a clear representation of the amazing work that is being done in the Legal Assistant program at Bow Valley College. It has been proven again and again that those people who obtain a post-secondary education excel in life, your choice to get an education will set you apart for the rest of your career."

Following the short program guests mingled and had an opportunity to reconnect with old classmates and instructors. There was also a good amount of networking between current students and alumni from the program. Liz Smith recognized the value of the event when she said, " I see many faces from last year's reception and even more new faces, a few years from now we will need to get together in a much larger space to accommodate the growth!"

Look for the 3rd Annual Legal Assistant Networking Reception in February 2010! If you are a Legal Assistant and missed out on this year's event please contact the BVCAA and update your contact information so we can add you to our database.

Protect yourself on Facebook

Hey, we’re on Facebook!

Facebook is a social networking site where people meet and reunite in cyberspace.
Many individuals, however, are concerned about protecting their privacy on the internet.

That’s OK! We’re here to help.

If you become a fan of a page, such as the Bow Valley College Alumni Association or Careers at Bow Valley College pages, others don’t have unfettered access to your account. They would need your email address and password to gain access, so make sure your password is a combination of letters and numbers that only you know.

Once you do become a fan to a page, a link will appear on your profile’s Info page, letting all your friends know that you are fan of that page.

Your profile picture and name also will show up in the Fans section of the page you have joined.
Unless you’ve made use of the privacy settings on Facebook, you might be allowing strangers access to your personal information . . . so get protected!

The first step you can take is to enable ONLY your friends to view your page. You can do this by accessing the Privacy settings here:

Clicking on Privacy Settings will take you to this page, where you can click on Profile:

And you end up here, where you can select from several privacy options which prevent people from accessing the information on your page.

It is also a good idea to set separate privacy levels for your photo albums. Otherwise, a photo you post can appear on the newsfeed for one of your friends’ pages and all their friends can access your photo.

To change those settings, go to your photo album page and click the Album Privacy link:

It will take you to this page where you can, once again, select from several security levels for your photo albums.

The Careers at Bow Valley College page is a partnership between Marketing and Communications, Human Resources, and Careerbuilder.ca The page lists career opportunities and features news, program descriptions, event announcements, and photo albums at the College.

It is intended as a recruitment tool for faculty, staff, and students . . . so, even if one or two of your friends click through to our page and learn something about BVC, it helps us get the word out about the wonderful work we do here.

Become a fan of Make it Happen at Bow Valley College here!

The Bow Valley College Alumni Association page is a Facebook group for alumni of the College. The intention of this page is to inform alumni about upcoming events and announcements that pertain to the alumni program. It is a great way to keep informed on the growth and development of the Alumni program, while using your favourite form of social media.

Join the Bow Valley College Alumni Association group today!

Content posted with the permission of Marketing and Communications at Bow Valley College.

Alumna of the Month: Karen Filbert, Events Management Certificate 2005

Karen Filbert graduated from the Events Management Certificate in 2005, prior to taking the Event program she had completed a Bachelor’s degree at the University of Lethbridge and came to Bow Valley College to enhance her skills so that she could transition into a career in Event Management. In early 2006, not long after completing her program, Karen joined the BVC team as the Special Event Officer in Fund Development. During her career at Bow Valley College Karen has planned and executed several high profile annual events, such as the Golf Tournament and Learn a Better Living Breakfast. Recently Karen has been seconded into the position of Acting Senior Development Officer at BVC and is one of the 2009 recipients of the Council for Advancement and Support of Education’s Rising Star Award – presentation of this award took place in February at the Annual District VIII conference in Seattle, Washington.
In her spare time Karen also does contract work from her home business, is co-chair of the 2009 National Philanthropy Week committee and is the President of the University of Lethbridge Alumni Association's Calgary Chapter.

1. Name?
Karen Filbert

2. Program and year?
Events Management Certificate, 2005

3. Current position?
Acting Senior Development Officer, Bow Valley College

4. What is your fondest memory of your time at AVC/BVC?
Whenever we (team) got to make the final presentation at a Convention or Trade Show after being up all night to get things together.

5. Tim Horton’s or Starbucks?
Tim’s

6. Who was your favorite instructor?
Too many to name!

7. Chocolate or vanilla?
Vanilla

8. How do you foresee yourself staying connected to BVC?
I feel very connected already, I work here at BVC of course will always be connected being an alumna. As to capacity, as the BVCAA moves forward, I’m sure there will be many opportunities to volunteer.

9. What is your favourite thing to do in Calgary?
That would be shoe shopping and hanging out with friends.

10. What advice would you give to current learners taking the same program you did?
Be strong, be smart, be creative – events are creative by nature, but also detailed and subject to change. You must always have plan B in place (or at least be able to think wisely on your feet).

11. What is your favourite place that you have travelled to?
Greece

Congratulations to Karen on the Rising Star Award!

BVC Alumna wins BIG with TD Insurance Meloche Monnex

At the annual Client Appreciation Dinner, hosted by TD Insurance Meloche Monnex, in Edmonton on March 3, BVC Alumna Christine Marston won the $50,000 cash prize for home renovations in TDIMM's most recent national contest for new policy holders. 21 year old Marston is engaged to be married and has just recently become the first official graduate of the Online Office Administration Certificate offered at Bow Valley College.

The Bow Valley College Alumni Association (BVCAA) signed on with TD Insurance Meloche Monnex as an affinity partner in July 2008. This partnership enabled the BVCAA to offer group rates on home, auto and small business insurance to alumni. Each year TD Insurance Meloche Monnex runs a contest that all new policy holders are entered into, by taking advantage of her alumni benefits Christine is not only paying less for her insurance but she is $50,000 richer.

BVC and AVC alumni are eligible for group rates.

Congratulations Graduates!

Today over 400 graduates will become members of the Bow Valley College Alumni Association (BVCAA). The BVCAA would like to take a moment to congratulate all those students who have worked so hard and sacrificed so much to successfully complete their programs and goals at Bow Valley College - you did it!

The BVCAA is committed to inciting pride and providing value with every program, benefit and service that is offered to alumni. To stay connected keep your information updated and check our website regularly at: www.bowvalleycollege.ca/alumni

As part of today's graduation the BVCAA will be out promoting a special contest - every graduate who updates their contact information will be entered to win an 8G i-pod Nano.

The winner will be drawn at 4 pm on Thursday, January 15 - if you are a graduate not attending the graduation ceremony you can enter by sending your name, program, address, phone number and email to alumni@bowvalleycollege.ca