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Impact Stories

Photo of Morgan Vassallo
Urgent Aid continues future social worker’s dream of helping her community: Morgan Vassallo Growing up in Dingwall, a small community in Cape Breton, Morgan witnessed the challenges of having limited access to mental health and social services. Despite the unexpected, she was determined to make a difference.
Photo of The Honourable Dr. Mayann E. Francis, in her suit that's displayed at Sydney Waterfront Campus's new interpretative display of Dr. Francis.
A local legacy: The Honourable Dr. Mayann E. Francis Through a ceremony at Sydney Waterfront Campus, The Honourable Dr. Mayann E. Francis Library and Learning Commons and interpretive display was unveiled in recognition of Dr. Francis's legacy.
From left to right, photo NSCC Foundation employees Caitlin McKellar, Ben Trenaman and Lauren Caines holding food in front of NSCC sign.
Giving Tuesday 2024: Fighting student food insecurity, together. On Giving Tuesday 2024, our community of support always amazes us with your ability to step up when students are facing immediate need.
Photo of Darian Young
“I felt a weight lift off my shoulders” - Finding support among crisis through NSCC's Rapid Response program With help from NSCC's Emergency Wildfire Bursary, Darian Young continued her education after losing her home to wildfires. Now, she's rebuilding her life and pursuing her dream of being an early childhood educator.
Photo Esplanade Street entrance to Sydney Waterfront Campus.
Welcome to NSCC Sydney Waterfront Campus After years of planning, building and collaboration, NSCC officially held its grand opening events to welcome the community to the beautiful new Sydney Waterfront Campus.
Photo from Office Interiors and RICOH celebration event with their employees and NSCC employees and students in front of the Office Interiors and RICOH Graphic and Print Production Centre at Ivany Campus.
Investing in talent: Office Interiors and RICOH mark 17 years of supporting student success A 17-year partnership reached a remarkable milestone this September as Office Interiors, alongside their partner RICOH Canada Inc., celebrated surpassing $500,000 in donations to NSCC Foundation.
Photo of Brittany Bowden
“It turned out to be the best decision I’ve ever made”: Brittany Bowden’s NSCC Story After university with the help of student awards, NSCC student Brittany Bowden is on a journey of discovering new opportunities at home and abroad with a newfound confidence.
Photo of Sharon Atokolo
Uncertainties and Urgent Aid: Sharon Atokolo’s journey across the world to support her daughter When Sharon Atokolo left Nigeria with her family of five to pursue education in Nova Scotia, she carried not just career dreams, but the hope of creating a better life for her nine-year-old daughter with cerebral palsy.
Photo of NSCC employees, skilled trades students, and representatives from Cape Breton Building Trades and Unionized Contractors with a cheque for $100,000 to Sydney Waterfront Campus
Cape Breton Building Trades and Unionized Contractors gifts $100k to support skilled trades at Sydney Waterfront Campus On December 5, the Cape Breton Building Trades and their Unionized Contractors gathered at Sydney Waterfront Campus to present a $100,000 donation.
Ashley Power
Welcome Ashley Power, NSCC Foundation and Alumni Relations new Executive Director After 18 incredible years at NSCC, please welcome and congratulate Ashley Power as NSCC Foundation and Alumni Relations’ Executive Director!
NSCC Sydney Waterfront Campus
NSCC Sydney Waterfront Campus receives $100K to enhance hearing accessibility NSCC's Sydney Waterfront Campus receives $100K grant for MobileConnect system, enhancing hearing accessibility in classrooms and labs for students with hearing impairments.
NSCC Electrical Technician student outside installing solar panel.
RBC funding powers up wind energy education at NSCC RBC Foundation funds enhancements to NSCC's Electrical Technician program, focusing on large-scale wind energy. New curriculum and equipment prepare students for Nova Scotia's growing renewable energy sector.
NSCC Construction Management students working on project.
Building tomorrow's workforce: $1.6 million per year in bursaries for skilled trades students at NSCC NSCC partners with Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency to offer 320 bursaries of $5,000 each for skilled trades students, focusing on equity-deserving groups and high-demand construction programs.
NSCC Natural Resources and Environmental Technology alum, Kieran Wasuek Johnson.
Clean Foundation invests in Nova Scotia's green future through student awards at NSCC A $400,000 gift from the Clean Foundation is supporting equity-deserving students in clean energy programs at NSCC to help Nova Scotia's clean energy sector.
Cheque presentation at gift announcement for the DGHF-Horizon Maritime Mi'kmaq Learners Healthcare Bursary.
$250,000 gift from Horizon Maritime to support Mi’kmaq learners pursuing healthcare careers at NSCC Horizon Maritime's $250,000 gift to NSCC creates Mi'kmaq Learners Healthcare Bursary, offering five $3,000 renewable bursaries annually to support Mi'kmaq students pursuing healthcare careers in Nova Scotia.
2023-24 Annual Report on Giving cover photo feature NSCC alums Mollie and Ben Campbell.
Evolving Together: NSCC Foundation and Alumni Relations 2023-24 Annual Report on Giving Read Evolving Together: NSCC Foundation and Alumni Relations’ 2023-24 Annual Report on Giving. Thanks to your generosity, $7.1M was raised to support NSCC students.
From left to right, Brad Totorewa, a Māori historian and leader at Rangiriri and Ethan Paul at the historical site of the Invasion of the Waikato in New Zealand.
Bridging Mi’kmaw culture and early childhood education: Ethan Paul’s story Ethan Paul, a Mi’kmaw student at NSCC, blends cultural heritage with modern education practices locally and abroad through the Mi'kmaw Early Childhood Education program.
Indigenous artifact used for 3D printing for project.
NSCC students bring Mi'kmaq artifacts to life through 3D printing NSCC students use 3D printing to recreate Mi'kmaq artifacts, bridging technology and tradition. Guided by Dr. Elder Gerald R. Gloade, they preserve Indigenous history and create educational materials.
Photo of Chris Rice on a deck by the water.
A Life Rebuilt: Chris Rice’s success through accessibility at NSCC In 2012, an accident left NSCC eCampus student Chris Rice paralyzed from the chest down. Today, he is an inspiring example of resilience and determination for students with disabilities in post-secondary education.
Photo of Making Waves Competition's winning team, Ocean Savers. From left to right: Mary Mach, Hira Bari and Mirian Quispe.
Sensor Technology challenges NSCC students to champion sustainable solutions In collaboration with Sensor Technology, the Making Waves Competition at NSCC's Ivany Campus brought excitement and innovation by challenging students to foster sustainable solutions for our communities.
Photo of Smart WIL Award recipient, Wesley Amirault, at graduation with NSCC President, Don Bureaux.
CEWIL funding sets graduate up for success in unpaid work-term and beyond The Smart WIL Award, established by CEWIL, supports students like Wesley, giving them the extra push they need to succeed while pursuing the unpaid work-integrated learning (WIL) placements required for graduation.
Photo of 2024 Marine Skills Competition winning team, Knots and Bolts. From left to right, John P., Caleb V.; Sean M., Pieter B., Natasha C., John H., Ryan M.
Career fairs, connections and competitions for NSCC students and alumni Thanks to NSCC's event sponsors and industry partners, the College hosted four events from January to March to help students from various programs prepare for the next steps in their careers.
Photo of Sponsor-a-Student recipient, Brandy
Supporting student needs and investing in talent helps Cyber Security grad thrive Meet Brandy McGuire, a 2023 NSCC Cyber Security grad who overcame adversity with the College’s support and jumpstarted her career switch thanks to the Sponsor-a-Student Program.
Photo of Black NSCC student studying by window.
Awards uplifting Black and African Nova Scotian students at NSCC By tailoring their awards to provide unique supports to students, many donors have dedicated their awards to Black and African Nova Scotian students at NSCC to overcome barriers they may face in post-secondary education.
Photo of Maestro Fresh Wes Scholarship's first recipient, Maxwell.
Maestro Fresh Wes Scholarship supporting Black youth in trades: Meet Maxwell Maxwell, a Welding student at Akerley Campus, is honoured to be the first recipient of the Maestro Fresh Wes Scholarship, created by Wes to celebrate his induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame at the JUNO Awards.
Photo of David and Michelle Lane.
The Lane family: a lifetime of inspiring students Thanks to David and Michelle Lane's passion for education, innovation and paying it forward, the couple created an enduring legacy for years to come through the Lane Family Endowment Fund.
Photo of donated canned food spelling "NSCC".
Fighting food insecurity at NSCC Food insecurity continues to be a rising issue across the province. But as a community, we come together to make sure that those who need it most can access the resources they need.
From left to right, a photo of NSCC President Don Bureaux and NSCC alum Judy Lewis at NSCC Ivany Campus' spring convocation.
NSCC accessibility supports ignites a student’s potential With accessibility supports, student awards, and perseverance, Judy Lewis thrived at NSCC and created her own award to support students like her.
Photo of Maestro Fresh Wes.
Maestro Fresh Wes introduces new scholarship at NSCC Godfather of Canadian hip-hop, Maestro Fresh Wes, is celebrating his induction to the Canadian Music Hall of Fame by creating the Maestro Fresh Wes Scholarship at NSCC.
Rob Sobey with NSCC Sobey Award recipients at the celebration event.
Celebrating a legacy: Five years of The Sobey Award On Nov. 7 at NSCC’s Ivany Campus, the NSCC Foundation hosted the Five Years of The Sobey Award Celebration, welcoming students, alumni, volunteers, community partners and College leadership to celebrate the milestone.
Photo of Jessica Burke.
Urgent aid for urgent matters: Meet Jessica Burke “Had it not been for NSCC's willingness to adapt and understand, I would not have been able to graduate. Looking back, it was a big hurdle and NSCC was really good about it.” Said NSCC Urgent Aid recipient Jessica Burke.
Photo of three NSCC award recipients holding a light blue sign saying "thank you" in white text.
Giving Tuesday 2023 – Thank you for giving back On Giving Tuesday, our community rallied together to support NSCC students. You helped in exceeding our fundraising goal for Rapid Response to fund cost of living bursaries and food security initiatives.
Photo of Mitchell Langford at NSCC's Lunenburg Campus.
Rediscovering passions: Meet Mitchell Langford Mitchell Langford is rediscovering his passions at NSCC thanks to the support of awards like the Black and African Nova Scotian Cost of Living Bursary.
Photo of Amber Hartlin
Finding your stride – Amber Hartlin’s NSCC journey Amber Hartlin took the leap of faith to return to school, and thanks to the Emergency Cost of Living Bursary, she's following in her grandmother's footsteps to become a nurse.
Photo of Maestro Fresh Wes.
Maestro Fresh Wes celebrates induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame with new scholarship at NSCC On November 7, Maestro Fresh Wes announced his new scholarship at NSCC to celebrate his induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
Chelsea during a skills competition day sitting in the captain's chair.
Success at sea: Chelsea King’s ocean dream Chelsea King, a second-year Marine Navigation Technology student at NSCC's Strait Area Campus Nautical Institute, embodies the essence of determination and spirit of the Ocean Dream Award for Women and Indigenous People.
Andrew M. standing in front of the Mi'kmaq eight-pointed star.
Indigenous Student Support Program helps student reach their dreams Thanks to the Indigenous Student Support Program, Andrew M. received support from the Indigenous Students Immediate Needs Fund at a critical time for him to pursue his dream work placement.
From left to right, a photo of NSCC President Don Bureaux and NSCC student awards recipient and 2023 Paralegal Services alumni Judy Lewis.
NSCC Accessibility Supports ignite a student’s potential With accessibility supports, student awards, and perseverance, Judy Lewis thrived at NSCC and created her own award to support students like her. Read more in the Halifax Chamber of Commerce's Business Voice Magazine.
Photo of NSCC student awards recipient, Jordan B.
Awards supporting Mi'kmaq and Indigenous students at NSCC Thanks to donor support, NSCC offers dedicated awards for Mi'kmaq and Indigenous students, as well as many more open to equity-deserving groups.
Group photo of Cumberland Campus students enjoying breakfast through the Cumberland Campus Breakfast Program.
Five years of impact and more: Thank you Dr. and Mrs. H.E. Christie Community Foundation Over the last five years, the Dr. and Mrs. H.E. Christie Community Foundation has made an incredible impact at Cumberland Campus, helping with student issues like food insecurity, cost of living, transportation and more.
Photo of Scotiabank EITM Growth Grant Recipient, Kara Friesen.
Scotiabank funding elevates goals for NSCC alumni “I feel very supported as an alum of NSCC’s Kingstec Campus. It's almost like I never left!” said Kara Friesen, in response to being the first recipient of the Scotiabank Entrepreneur-in-the-Making Growth Grant.
Photo, from left to right of Rocky Jones, Deanna Mohamed, and Chester Borden with white background.
NSCC awards to celebrate Black and African Nova Scotian community leaders Thanks to the generosity and endorsement of NSCC’s Black African Nova Scotian Employee Resource Network (BAERN), four new $2,500 awards have been launched to support Black and African Nova Scotian students at NSCC.
Photo of NSCC students and East Coast Credit Union staff in front of NSCC banner holding East Coast Credit Union promotional signs.
East Coast Credit Union tailors donation to support equity-deserving students NSCC proudly offers various programs and awards tailored to supporting equity-deserving students. We are dedicated to increasing support for equity-deserving students by partnering with donors like East Coast Credit Union.
Photo of music performance at Spark Creativity.
Sparking Creativity – Soaring talents and student support This spring, NSCC hosted Spark Creativity, a soaring success for its inaugural event spending the night celebrating student and alumni talent from NSCC’s Creative Industries programming.
From left to right, photo of Drew Hood and Cassie MacDonald
Women Unlimited: It's time to go for it! NSCC students Cassie MacDonald and Drew Hood credit the Women Unlimited program at NSCC for helping them navigate the path to their dream careers in the trades.
Photo of D. Stuart MacLeod.
Playing for a better future The family of D. Stuart MacLeod, known fondly amongst his peers as Mr. Rotary, made a transformational $200,000 donation to Sydney Waterfront Campus.
Photo of Mark and Krista Paterson, Marconi Campus Culinary Arts Class of 2015.
A winning recipe Mark and Krista both joined NSCC’s culinary program in 2013. Today, the husband-and-wife team is well-known in Cape Breton for their three culinary businesses.
Photo of award recipient Tuma Stevens.
Reaching new heights through education Tuma, a multi-award recipient, will graduate from NSCC’s Business Administration program in 2023. Read how scholarships and bursaries made his dreams a reality.
CEWIL Logo
Where there’s a WIL there’s a way – New bursaries for students on unpaid work placements Thanks to funding from CEWIL Canada, NSCC’s new Where There’s a WIL There’s a Way program provides financial aid bursaries for equity-deserving students at the College participating in mandatory, unpaid work placements.
Photo of Michelle Bussey
NSCC Foundation and Alumni Relations Executive Director moving to a new role this summer After seven and a half years, Michelle Bussey, Executive Director, NSCC Foundation and Alumni Relations, will step into a new role as the Chief Executive Officer of the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency on July 31, 2023.
NSCC Sydney Waterfront Campus
Construction Updates: NSCC Sydney Waterfront Campus NSCC’s Sydney Waterfront Campus is on track to open for September 2024! The opening date is getting closer and closer, and the construction progress continues to excite the community and supporters.
Photo of Marcia H.
Urgent Aid drives student to her dream career NSCC Urgent Aid helps students through financial challenges impacting their education. Thanks to donor funding, Urgent Aid recipient Marcia H. can complete her work placement and continue her path to becoming a nurse.
Photo of Admiral, Women Unlimited staff and alum, and NSCC staff and faculty at Admiral's announcement.
Admiral provides financial aid to uplift women in trades and technology On April 25, Admiral announced a generous three-year commitment to support the Women Unlimited program at NSCC to establish the Admiral Women Unlimited Bursary and the Women Unlimited Urgent Aid Fund.
Group photo of NSCC Foundation, Women Unlimited and Nova Scotia Power staff at the Nova Scotia Power gift announcement for its funding to the Doreen Parsons Legacy Award.
Nova Scotia Power funds award in honour of Doreen Parsons supporting women in trades On May 24, at NSCC's IT Campus, Nova Scotia Power announced its funding to the Doreen Parsons Legacy Award.
From left to right, a photo of Amber Cain (Prep), Ashley Hill (Prep), Bill Gunn (Jeannine Deveau Achievement Fund), Kaisen MacKinnon (Prep) and Vanessa Hartley (Prep)
Jeannine Deveau Achievement Fund gift supports $45K in awards for PREP alumni at NSCC The Jeannine Deveau Achievement Fund's $530,000 gift to the PREP Academy is supporting $45,000 in entrance and graduating awards for PREP alumni at NSCC.
NSCC in the news
Sparking creativity On Friday, May 26, NSCC will celebrate the work of students and graduates from its creative sector programs and raise funds for future students from equity-deserving groups through an industry showcase at the Light House Arts Centre. 
Photo of Amber H. taking a photo with her camera outside.
Student awards helping to make creative dreams a reality When Amber H. finished university, she was searching for something that would help her explore her creative side. Thanks to student awards, she's chasing her dreams to make her mark on the creative sector.
Group photo of NSCC Foundation, Women Unlimited and Admiral staff at the Admiral gift announcement for its funding to support Women Unlimited participants and alumni.
Admiral donation to uplifts and support Women Unlimited participants and alumni On April 25, at NSCC’s IT Campus, Admiral announced its three-year commitment to support the Women Unlimited Program at NSCC.
Group photo of NSCC Foundation, NSCC Entrepreneurship and Scotiabank staff with Entrepreneur-in-the-Making (EITM) recipients Liam Crane and Sabrina Allison at the EITM gift announcement.
Scotiabank commits $210,000 to support and inspire NSCC student and alumni entrepreneurs On April 14, at NSCC’s Akerley Campus, Scotiabank announced its three-year $210,000 commitment to extend the Scotiabank Entrepreneur-in-the-Making Program at NSCC.
Photo of the 2023 Marine Skills Competition winning team, Fish N Chips. Front Row L-R: Alexis Madore, 1st year Engineering; Kayla Wemp, 3rd year Navigation; Felix Weissbach, 1st year Engineering  Back Row L-R: Boyd MacIntrye, 3rd year Engineering; Justin Pautsch, 1st year Navigation; Missing: Pieter Blok, 1st year Navigation
Career fairs and skill building for NSCC Information Technology and Marine students NSCC hosted two events in March at the College's Institute of Technology (IT) Campus and Strait Area Campus Nautical Institute to help students prepare for the next steps in their careers.
Photo of NSCC Foundation and Alumni Relations team with Board of Governors at NSCC's Centre of Geographical Sciences (COGS) Campus.
We want to hear from you – inform our new strategic plan The NSCC Foundation and Alumni Relations team invites you to complete a survey for our new strategic plan to positively impact NSCC students and the province.
Photo of Antonia Wareham, a graduate of the first Pathways to Shipbuilding Program with Women Unlimited.
Empowering Black and African Nova Scotian students at NSCC February marked African Heritage Month. Learn more about news we shared of new initiatives and dedicated supports for Black and African Nova Scotian students at NSCC.
Group photo from left to right of Phil, Olivia, Nicole, Michelle, and Bern Byers at NSCC's Kingstec Campus making cheesecakes for cheesecake raffle winners.
Cheesecakes for Carpentry: Richard Byers Memorial Bursary During the holiday season, the Byers family hosted a nostalgic cheesecake raffle to fundraise for the Richard Byers Memorial Bursary, an award they established in their dad’s memory to support Carpentry students at NSCC.
Photo of the Mi'kmaq Eight Point Star
Continuing support for Indigenous students at NSCC Learn how donor funding to the Indigenous Student Support Program helps Indigenous students at NSCC through increased financial aid and on-campus support.
Photo of NSCC student award recipient, Isabel T.
NSCC awards inspired by women, for women Through the generosity of our donors and partners, NSCC offers a variety of scholarships, bursaries and awards dedicated to helping women pursue post-secondary education.
Photo of NSCC alumni Martina K.
Awards supporting Black and African Nova Scotian students at NSCC Learn more about NSCC’s seven dedicated awards, scholarships and bursaries for Black and African Nova Scotian students funded by our donors and partners and how you can support them.
From left to right, a photo of Barbara Roberts, Deanna Mohamed, Archy Beals, Bill Gunn, Augy Jones, and Don Bureaux presenting the $200,000 gift.
Jeannine Deveau Achievement Fund gifts $200K to support African Nova Scotian students at NSCC The estate of Jeannine Deveau, whose philanthropic vision is to make education more accessible for African Nova Scotian and Indigenous students, recently gifted $200,000 to the Archy Beals Legacy Award.
Photo from November 2022 of waterfront view of NSCC's Sydney Waterfront Campus under construction
NSCC Sydney Waterfront Campus update Time is flying by with the construction of NSCC's new campus in Downtown Sydney! With the announcement of its new name and a recent campus tour with Engineers Nova Scotia, we are excited to see the changes it'll bring.
Photo of NSCC students holding blue sign saying, "Happy Giving Tuesday!"
Rallying for Rapid Response – Donors support food security It has been an exciting month to celebrate our donors and supporters. Together, we raised over $25,000 for Rapid Response on Giving Tuesday, and we are blown away by our community's support for NSCC students.
Photo of strategic plan cover
NSCC's Strategic Plan Our time is now is NSCC's new strategic plan that positions the College as a part of the solution to prepare Nova Scotia to prosper in a post-pandemic society.
Photo of NSCC student award recipient holding aqua coloured sign saying "thank you" in white text.
Emergency Hurricane Fiona Relief Bursaries The aftermath of Hurricane Fiona left many NSCC students in a vulnerable position. Thankfully, through donor support to Rapid Response, the College was able to jump to action.
3-panel photo of Archy Beals at the Archy Beals Dinner and Dance, two NSCC alumni at the alumni Farm Fun Day, and a photo of Margaret Mary Cook.
Back in community After two and half years, the NSCC Foundation and Alumni Relations team is excited to be back to in-person events! Hear about our recent fundraising events, gift announcements, and alumni engagement events.
Photo of books featured in 25 books for 25 years giveaway
Giving back through community Throughout August, the Foundation held a 25 Books for 25 Years Giveaway for Nova Scotian non-profits through our partnership with Atlantic Book Publisher’s Bound for Good Program.
Photo of Emergency Cost-of-Living Bursary recipient Shaun D., with his family.
Emergency bursaries: One small gesture can make a world of difference Shaun D., a husband, father, and NSCC student, felt a sense of relief when he received an Emergency Cost of Living Bursary last winter.
Photo of...
RBC donates $200,000 to support and expand the RBC Student Works Program On Tuesday, October 26, at NSCC’s Kingstec Campus, the RBC Foundation announced a $200,000 donation over two years to support and expand the RBC Student Works Program at NSCC.
NSCC in the news
NSCC and RBC grow support for rural students with work experience program NSCC has received a gift of $200,000 over two years from RBC Foundation’s Future Launch initiative for the continued support of the RBC Student Works Program.
NSCC in the news
NSCC Student Associations pledge $500K for student awards NSCC's 15 student associations have pledged a combined $500,000 to support students at all campuses. The commitment will fund hundreds of student financial awards over the next five years.
Photo of Archy Beals
Archy Beals Legacy Award Deanna Mohamed and Barbara Roberts created the Archy Beals Legacy Award to honour Archy's legacy and 27 years of service at the College while supporting African Nova Scotia high school students starting at NSCC.
NSCC in the News
NSCC Foundation hosts dedication event in honour of Margaret Mary Cook The NSCC Foundation and David Cook hosted a dedication event in honour of the late Margaret Mary Cook at the NSCC Strait Area Campus Learning Commons in recognition of a $2 million estate gift to fund student awards in perpetuity at the campus.
Photo of the 2022 Reporting in Mi’kma’ki class in Eskasoni, with community members. Photo credit: George Paul
Journalism students learn responsible reporting in Mi'kma'ki Through donor funding, four second-year Radio Television Journalism students participated in the Reporting in Mi’kma’ki workshop. Students learned in class and in the Mi’kmaw community of Eskasoni to gain cultural competency when telling Indigenous stories.
On the left, a photo of Heather O'Brien, VON's logo in the middle, and to the right, a photo of Kristen Beaton
Heather O’Brien and Kristen Beaton memorial awards – celebrating their care and compassion Together, the families of Heather O’Brien and Kristen Beaton, the Victorian Order of Nurses (VON) and NSCC Alumni Relations are celebrating the lives and legacies of Heather and Kristen by establishing awards in their memory.
Photo of NSCC's 25th anniversary logo
Wrapping up NSCC’s 25th anniversary We surpassed our goals for NSCC’s 25th year and we are excited to spend the next 25 celebrating with you. After this milestone year, we continue to celebrate and reflect on the achievements of NSCC’s community over the past 25 years.
Photo of Syrian refugee student Fadi, working on vehicle with NSCC automotive faculty member.
New beginnings for refugee and equity-deserving students at NSCC Continuing NSCC’s efforts to address financial barriers and increase opportunities for equity-deserving groups, new awards will be offered for the upcoming academic year. One of the newest bursaries being the New Beginnings Bursary for incoming refugee students.
Photo of Dan M., student supported by gas gift cards thanks to the Dr. & Mrs. H.E. Christie Community Foundation.
Dr. & Mrs. H.E. Christie Community Foundation drives students to graduation Stress was felt by rural NSCC students because of increased gas prices during their final semester. But, thanks to the Dr. & Mrs. H.E. Christie Community Foundation, the College was able to support them to graduation.
Photo of cars donated by Honda
Honda donation to enrich automotive programming at NSCC Honda’s gift-in-kind of nine vehicles they donated this spring, valued at $128,000, will directly impact student learning at NSCC. The vehicles are a much-needed component of the hands-on learning in the College’s automotive programs.
NSCC in the news
New scholarships for African Nova Scotian students The NSCC Foundation is partnering with The PREP Academy to offer $16,000 in scholarships to African Nova Scotian students who attended the academy and will be attending NSCC in fall 2022.
NSCC in the news
TK Foundation donates $250K to NSCC Foundation The TK Foundation is contributing $250,000 to the NSCC Foundation to support student bursaries and research activities at the College’s Strait Area Campus Nautical Institute.
Photo of donated lysol wipes on boxes of donated lysol wipes
NSCC and Lysol supporting health and safety across our communities Through the College’s partnership with Lysol, NSCC paid it forward and worked with the Truro and Ivany Campuses to distribute 80 pallets of the in-demand sanitizing wipes to community organizations across the province.
Photo of new quiet space at NSCC Lunenburg Campus
Lunenburg Campus is bringing quiet spaces to its students Thanks to donor support, NSCC’s Lunenburg Campus opened a much-needed quiet space on-campus. The space is a safe and quiet environment near campus support offices for students to take a break, whether it’s for personal, medical or religious reasons.
Photo of the Folk family.
Continuing a legacy in the trades through the Adam Folk Memorial Endowment The Folk family’s generous $1 million Adam Folk Memorial Endowment is funding its first two scholarships in the spring of 2022. The scholarships will support Plumbing students who embody Adam Folk’s legacy as a plumber and a community leader.
Photo of NSCC Music Arts student, Thaydra G., the first recipient of the Pathways to Rock Award
Pathways to Rock – supporting a mother’s passion and perseverance Chris Murdoch’s Pathways to Rock award is combating stereotypes that Black people face in the Nova Scotia music industry. Breaking barriers for Music Arts students like Thaydra G., a mother driven by her love for music, and especially her son.
Photo of student holding a thank you sign.
Giving back for Giving Tuesday NSCC employees, alumni and partners are making an incredible impact on the lives of NSCC students through their generosity. Rallying together for Giving Tuesday 2021, they raised a grand total of $19,150 for Rapid Response and Urgent Aid.
Indigenous student playing the drum
Indigenous Student Support Program addresses financial barriers A new fundraising appeal is part of NSCC’s commitment to reconciliation and supports the Indigenous Student Support Program, which focuses on meeting everyday financial needs that can impact academic success.
NSCC 25 - Looking Back. Thinking Forward.
NSCC 25th anniversary celebrations in full swing 25 years of NSCC! Join us as we look back and think to the future. Tell your story, enter our contest, explore the history of NSCC, donate to our 25th Anniversary Fund, and more!
Student in a library
Indigenous book bundles donated to campus libraries in recognition of Mi’kmaq History Month In October, the NSCC Foundation celebrated by contributing book bundles with Indigenous authors and themes to all NSCC campuses.
Lead the Way logo
Lead the Way successes The NSCC Foundation’s Lead the Way Campaign asked donors to support economic resiliency and social equity for our students. Our supporters delivered, and through the Rapid Response Fund, students in need now have access to more immediate solutions.
Ford vehicle gift
Ford of Canada partners rev up learning with generous donation It’s hard to turn a natural disaster into something positive, but that’s precisely what Ford of Canada, Fairley and Stevens Ford, and MacPhee Ford managed to do for NSCC students.
Survey and Geomatics students
Donor support helps student reach graduation After years of working and traveling across Canada, Kris is back in Nova Scotia. He just completed the Remote Sensing Program at NSCC AVC – COGS, a journey filled with ups and downs.
Hannah Noftall portrait
Cyber Security enthusiast gets a career head start with Sponsor-a-Student Hannah has had an interest in technology from a young age. Thanks to the Sponsor-a-Student Program and the generosity of a local technology management company, she is pursuing a career in Cyber Security.
Nicki Taylor at her desk
Leading by example – Nicki Backman Taylor Nicki Backman Taylor is part of a growing list of NSCC employee donors that are making a difference. She is leading a fundraising initiative for the NSCC eCampus College Readiness Fund that will provide eCampus students with access to additional financial supports.
Student checking water samples
AFNWA establishes Nujo’tmu’k Samuqwan Award The newly established award from Atlantic First Nations Water Authority (AFNWA), titled Nujo’tmu’k Samuqwan Award (Taking Responsibility for our Water), will give Indigenous students enrolled at NSCC the opportunity to explore careers in the water sector.
Amanda Green with medal
Six NSCC grads receive Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Culinary Excellence This summer, six exceptional NSCC grads were selected to receive the prestigious Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Culinary Excellence, presented in July by The Honourable Arthur J. LeBlanc, ONS, QC, Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia.
Music Arts students performing song
Music Arts students’ song is bringing hope and giving back In May, a group of students from the NSCC Music Arts class at Marconi Campus released their own single. The song – We’ll be Together Again, echoed our collective hope to return to a time where we can be with friends and family.
Fall update cover image
A new beginning powered by donor support It’s hard to believe that a new school year has started with many students returning to Campuses for the first time this fall. The last few months have been a time of change and growth at the College as we celebrated the official opening of the AVC-COGS campus housing and Innovation Centre, a new Centre of Forest Innovation at Truro Campus, and the opening of a new wing at the Institute of Technology Campus. These changes will create new opportunities for Nova Scotians and point to a bright future for our Province. In this update, we share news on exciting initiatives that are delivering change, stories of the resiliency and accomplishments of NSCC students, and inspiring stories of giving back. We continually hear from students that donor support is a source of inspiration for their success. Thank you for your continued commitment and encouragement of NSCC students. - The NSCC Foundation Team
Verb office
VERB Interactive launches NSCC bursary program for women in technology Through a partnership with VERB Interactive, the newly launched Women in Tech Award will support more women entering technology professions, including IT, Applied Media and Communications Arts, Digital Marketing, Business Intelligence Analytics, Cyber Security, and Graphic Design.
Pathways students at award annoucemeent
Recent grads paying it forward to empower future students The 2020 class from the Irving Pathways to Shipbuilding is paying it forward. Through their newly established award–The Black Empowerment to Success Award, two African Nova Scotian students will have the opportunity to receive much-needed financial support during their program at Akerley Campus. This initiative was born out of the group’s own experience being supported while at NSCC, and their desire to give back in the same vein.
Every child matters
Truth and Reconciliation, and the path forward On May 27, 2021, the residential school system - a shameful act in Canada - was once again brought into National focus. The bodies of 215 children, some as young as 3, were uncovered at the former site of the Kamloops Residential School, in British Columbia. Here is what NSCC is doing to move towards reconciliation.
Photo of Jim Mills at Office Interiors
Office Interiors giving back with Love The Way You Learn Office Interiors' Jim Mills speaks to NSCC on community and education. He talks about their commitment through the Love the Way You Learn bursary.
Photo of Chrissy Crowley at NSCC Marconi Campus.
Musician Chrissy Crowley plays a new tune as proud businesswoman Musician Chrissy Crowley puts aside her fiddle to pursue full-time studies at NSCC Marconi Campus. A dream made possible with the support of NSCC donors.
Photo of Gord Gamble at Iron Dog.
Supporting youth today to better Nova Scotia’s tomorrow Through the Sponsor-a-Student Program, Iron Dog Inc. led by Gord Gamble is helping NSCC Students get work experience and prepare to join the workforce.
Photo of Cathie O'toole at Halifax Water.
Fostering diversity in the workplace. Over the years, Halifax Water, led by Cathie O’Toole has partnered with NSCC to offer bursaries that encourage diversity in the talent pool and help students,
Photo of Juno Keizer at Irving Shipbuilding.
Video: Finding community at NSCC Through the Irving Pathways to Shipbuilding Program, Juno Keizer reconnected with community and is on a new career path.
Photo of Nathaniel Swider outside in winter.
Video: A community of supporters During his second semester, Nathaniel found himself homeless. Thanks to the support of staff counsellors and donors, he is back on course.
Photo of Alicia Montague working on electrical wires.
Video: Finding motivation for career advancement Receiving an award made it possible for Alicia Montague, a technology enthusiast from Labrador, to return to school and pursue a lifelong dream career.
Photo of Scott Gardiner outside in winter.
Video: Innovating for sustainable farming For Scott Gardiner, receiving the Scotiabank Entrepreneur-in-the-Making Grant was an opportunity to develop his aquaponics business idea.
Pieter Johnstone at the workshop
Hope for a Fresh Start Pieter Johnstone from Kentville is on a new career and life path thanks to NSCC’s donor-funded Limitless Program.
Kirsten Surette sitting on a park bench
Future Health Practitioner on the right path thanks to donor-funded community award Through the Jim and Dawn MacLeod Community Award, students like Kirsten Surette, a Mental Health Recovery and Promotion student at the Burridge Campus, have the opportunity to pursue learning in a field that they love, with great potential for positive community impact.
Lead the way recipients collage
Lead the Way. More help for students, now This past year has been hard for so many. The challenges that NSCC students face as they balance academics, career planning and financial security have been increased by the unique barriers presented by the pandemic. In response, we are launching Lead the Way—a fundraising initiative that will help remove barriers for students and alumni, fund new innovative programs at the College, and ensure that we can build our province, communities and industries back better than ever.
Billy Upton gardening in summer
A season of hope When we hear the gratitude in our students’ and alumni’s stories and we see the impact that kindness can have on a community, we are reminded once again that there are reasons to remain hopeful. It can feel increasingly challenging to find the good as we are constantly inundated with horrific news and traumas from around the world and right here in Canada. But together, we will continue to advocate and work for positive change. In this update, we share the highlights from the last quarter including new partnerships, student success stories, and to introduce a new fundraising appeal. Thank you for your support, you are leading the way.
Kara at PieceMeal
Scotiabank funding launches NSCC grad’s new meal-kit business Kara Friesen, 2020 Business Administration grad who attended NSCC Kingstec Campus, had tried meal-kit boxes in the past. She was always disappointed by the lack of local produce and the excessive use of packaging she found in the boxes. She kept looking at them and wondering if she could create a more sustainable product.
Sobey family gift largest in NSCC history
Sobey family gift largest in NSCC history A major philanthropic gift by members of the Sobey family to the Make Way Campaign is helping students, their families and their communities across Nova Scotia.
NSCC students help Make Way
NSCC students help Make Way A generous gift from NSCC students, facilitated by Student Association leaders, supports fellow students across the province.
Sikorsky S-76 Helicopter
Gift of Sikorsky S-76 will boost Aviation Program Canadian Helicopters and EHS Lifeflight's gift of a retired Lifeflight medevac helicopter to NSCC's Aviation Institute is set to transform how students learn about avionics.
David Hoffman
Donor believes in community impact Donor David Hoffman believes in supporting his community, which is why he's invested his time and resources in NSCC.
Juno Beals
Juno Beals: Finding Meaning in Community Juno Keizer Beals has had an interest in welding since high school. In 2018, after a ten-year career at a call center, he decided to make some changes. He joined the Irving Pathways to Shipbuilding Program and it changed his life.
Tsubaki Onishi
New hope for a newcomer's culinary dream For aspiring chef Tsubaki Onishi, the newly established Devour Diversity Scholarship was just what she needed to kick-start her dream career.
Maitland Mullen
Donors meet urgent need Urgent Aid fund at Burridge Campus helps Social Services student Maitland Mullen after 'unexpected setback.'
Disha Jaggi
Student touched by donor generosity Paralegal Services student and bursary recipient Disha Jaggi is happy to see so much financial support available to NSCC students.
Malcolm Lake
Planned gift offers second chance Malcolm Lake's parents valued education. Now a legacy gift in their memory will ensure more students have access to a transformational experience.
Pamela Reid
Former staffer brings passion to Board Education is one of Pamela Reid's life passions. That's one of the reasons the former NSCC staffer has joined the Foundation's Board of Directors.
Bob and Brenda MacEachern
Donors boost Urgent Aid Fund Bob and Brenda MacEachern have deep ties to NSCC. Supporting students is their way of honouring those connections.
Carl Gardner
Foodie gets bursary boost Culinary Management student Carl Gardner did a happy dance when he found out he'd received the Sobey Foundation Culinary Award.
Grad employer opening doors to learning
Grad employer opening doors to learning A $50,000 gift from Web.com, facilitated by Vice President Karen Churchill, is helping local students with tuition costs each year.
Bee Stanton
Alumni creates Make Way artwork Bee Stanton's artwork honours supporters of Make Way, while bringing each of the campuses and their surrounding communities to life.
Photo of Linda and Jim Ross
Q & A with Linda and Jim Ross Catch up with Linda and Jim Ross, graduates of NSCC's predecessor school, the Nova Scotia Land Survey Institute, about what they've been up to since graduation and why they plan to be legacy donors to NSCC.
Photo of group of NSCC and Scotiabank employees at announcement event
Scotiabank gift supports aspiring NSCC entrepreneurs The Scotiabank Entrepreneur-in-the-Making program will assist NSCC students and recent alumni, particularly underrepresented groups, thanks to a $150,000 donation.
Photo of NSCC President Don Bureaux and RBC executives holding $100,000 cheque
RBC Student Works Fund helps NSCC students gain experience and launch careers A $100,000 contribution by RBC is helping students gain relevant, career-building experience, on campus, while attending NSCC.
In the photo (L-R): Don Bureaux, President, NSCC; NSCC Student Association Presidents Akash Pandey (Ivany Campus), Krista Holland-Guy (IT Campus) and Mike Pinkney (Truro Campus); and Ashton Sequeira, President at Compass Group, Chartwells’ parent company holding $100,000 cheque
Chartwells supports NSCC students Chartwells has contributed $500,000 to help students facing unanticipated financial challenges that may affect their ability to remain in school.
Photo of NSCC President Don Bureaux with CIBC executives and students in Make Way t-shirts
CIBC donation supports financial literacy for NSCC students A $125,000 gift is supporting the development of a financial literacy course for NSCC students across Nova Scotia.
Photo of donor Ron Joyce offering his wisdom to past NSCC award recipients
The Joyce Foundation donation to support students, College’s largest gift This generous contribution, which kick-started the Make Way Campaign, supports hundreds of students annually through bursaries and urgent aid.
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