Conestoga news

April 10, 2017 8:10 AM

Awards ceremony celebrates students and mentors

On April 6, Conestoga’s School of Health & Life Sciences and Community Services honoured students and mentors at an awards ceremony at the Doon campus. In total, 60 awards were presented to celebrate excellence and outstanding achievement.

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Early Childhood Education student Melissa Hodder received the Marlene Raasok Community Award at the School of Health & Life Sciences and Community Services awards ceremony on April 6.

New for 2017 was the Marlene Raasok Community Award, established to honour the past executive dean of the School. The recipient is a returning student who creates a positive culture for learning and practice, exemplifies energy and commitment to their future as a professional, and is determined to make a difference in their chosen career. This year’s recipient was Melissa Hodder, a student in the Early Childhood Education program.  

During the ceremony, 1987 Paramedic graduate Jim Topham delivered a keynote address to students, donors and community partners highlighting the growth of Conestoga over the past 50 years and recognizing Colleges Week in Ontario. Topham said Conestoga has been a key contributor to regional growth and noted the vast majority of paramedics in Waterloo Region have been trained at Conestoga.

“Conestoga is one of the top colleges for paramedics,” said Topham. “This is evident with 96 per cent of Paramedicine students achieving employment within six months of graduation, which is remarkable.”

Topham also said the evolution of Conestoga over the years has become more evident to him as his son has chosen to follow in his footsteps: “As a student in the Paramedic program it makes me very proud and pleased that my son gets to experience this wonderful college and a successful career at the end of his education. I know I have very fond memories from attending this amazing college -- the friendships made, accomplishments achieved and memories forever engraved will ensure Conestoga College remains a special place.”

Conestoga’s School of Health & Life Sciences and Community Services delivers a comprehensive array of career-focused programs that combine theoretical and hands-on learning to support our community’s growing need for individuals with the skills, knowledge and determination to make a difference.

For more information about the School of Health & Life Sciences and Community Services, visit the website