Alumni News: Class Notes

Edwin Johnston (Hairdressing Certificate ’87), Co-owner of the Cutting Room Creative Salon in Nanaimo with his wife Fiona and a Global Ambassador for KMS California hair products, is living a jet-setting lifestyle these days. He travels the globe presenting at industry shows, working on ad campaigns, creating education programs and directing the hair trends at fashion week in LA, Sydney and NYC. Edwin, a 14-time Contessa Winner (Canadian Hairstylist Awards) and two-time NAHA (North American Hairstyling Awards) winner, also won a VIU Distinguished Alumni Award in 2005.

Angela Billingsley (Cook Training Certificate ’00) has launched a new business in Edmonton, Alberta, called Urban Pierogies with friend and colleague Magdalena Celejowska. Angela and Magdalena combined their experience, skills and education to create innovative flavour pairings for pierogi lovers. Check out their story at urbanpierogies.ca.

Ro Davies (Bachelor of Tourism Management ’00 and Diploma in Recreation Administration ’97) and his wife Addie welcomed their first baby boy, Hunter, on July 31, 2016. Ro is the Sales Manager at the Whistler Golf Club.

Paris Gaudet (Human Services Worker Diploma ’01 and Social Service Worker Certificate ’00) is the Executive Director of Innovation Island, a regional tech organization based in Nanaimo. When she’s not helping tech entrepreneurs make their businesses awesome, Paris can be found running along the streets and trails of Nanaimo or creating amazing, plant-based recipes. On the bucket list for 2017: run her first 50-km ultramarathon and book a trip to Thailand. Paris is also running for the Liberal party in the 2017 provincial election.

Carley Duckmanton (Bachelor of Tourism Management ’02) has turned her education into a tourism-based “job” reality. As an Indigenous Engagement Officer with Parks Canada’s Indigenous Affairs Branch, she liaises with Parks Canada team members working with Indigenous peoples, communities and groups to support and grow Indigenous programming, storytelling and tourism initiatives in Canada’s heritage places (parks and national historic sites). One of the highlights of her current position, which she’s held since 2014, was presenting on behalf of Parks Canada to nearly 350 leaders, entrepreneurs and representatives of the Indigenous tourism industry from around the world at the 4th annual International Aboriginal Tourism Conference in Quebec in 2015.

Olivia Lyle (Bachelor of Arts ’04 Double Major in Anthropology & Liberal Studies) recently received a Making Waves award from the BC Chapter of the International Association of Business Communicators. The award is given to up-and-comers in the communications field who have distinguished themselves through their work. Olivia is also a past IABC Gold Quill award winner.

Mandy Lawson (Bachelor of Arts ’06 Major in Psychology, Minor in Business Administration) has made a fulfilling career out of training yoga teachers around the world. She started down her new path in 2010 after moving to Costa Rica, where she became a yoga teacher and met and started a family with her husband, Johanne. Mandy is now the Training Director and a Trainer for Kidding Around Yoga, an organization that provides yoga teacher training around the world, focused on teaching people how to share the amazing benefits of yoga with children. This year, she’s leading training sessions in Costa Rica, Canada, Argentina and Mexico City. Visit kiddingaroundyoga.com for more details.

Val McKinnon (Bachelor of Tourism Management ’09 and Diploma in Recreation and Sport Management ’08) has embarked on a new business venture with two other partners, Nano Clow and Ryan Anderson. Vancouver Style Guys was founded in 2015 with the objective of aiding men with styling tips, lifestyle products and fashion forecasts. It has been highlighted by Vancity Startup Hub as an up-and-coming business. Check out vancouverstyleguys.com for a little local inspiration.

Erin MacDonald (Bachelor of Business Administration ’09) recently opened her own full-service creative firm in Nanaimo, offering expertise in communications, marketing, graphic design, web design and photography. Erin has recently reconnected with VIU by joining the Alumni Board as a Director for the 2016/17 term. She is also a past Director for the Canadian Public Relations Society Vancouver Island chapter and the Young Professionals of Nanaimo. Check out her new company at 460communications.com.

Sarah Bromley (Internet Production Diploma ’09 and Internet Production Certificate ’07), her husband Clayton Bromley (University Studies), and their son Darwin welcomed a new addition to their family, Ada Elora Bromley, on July 13. Sarah works for Array Web + Creative as the Technical Director. She also volunteers her time teaching Ladies Learning Code and Kids Learning Code classes.

Skott Taylor (Fine Arts - Theatre) studied at VIU for two years before continuing his theatre studies at Concordia University, specializing in Theatre for Development and the work of Augusto Boal. Skott is the Director at New Seed Creative Consulting in Hong Kong, a company he founded in Beijing in 2011 that focuses on company culture consulting with unique, arts-based activation techniques.

Sára Molčan (Bachelor of Arts ’11 Major in English and Certificate in Hairdressing ’07) has developed a cult following on social media in recent months. The Vancouver artist has thousands of people addicted to watching videos of her mixing paint in her #100daysofpaintmixing project. Fans say watching her mix paint is “soothing” and “satisfying.” See for yourself by following Sara on Instagram: @sarajmolcan.

For Allan Knapp (Forest Resource Technology Diploma ’11), the hands-on training he received at VIU was the starting point to a variety of interesting jobs in the forestry industry and a successful logger sports career that saw him win two Logger Sports Canadian championship titles for novice choker race in 2014 and novice double-buck in 2015. After working in the industry for a year, he enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Forestry (BSF) transfer program at VIU and finished his education at the University of British Columbia with a BSF in Forest Resource Management in 2015. Allan works as a forest planner for a contractor in various locations across coastal BC.

Danielle Zowty (Nail Technology Certificate ’11) is proudly displaying her VIU credentials in her new north Nanaimo business, Nailed It!, which provides nail esthetician services.

Alexis Deighton MacIntyre (Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies ’12) is not only studying at Cambridge University but is also the recipient of the Canada Cambridge Scholarship, which provides full tuition and living costs to a Canadian student pursuing a master’s degree. After graduating from VIU, Alexis made her way to Ontario, where she became a research assistant with Western University’s Brain and Mind Institute in the Neuroscience & Music Lab. She’s continuing her study of the cognitive science of music at Cambridge and hopes to continue research she helped with at Western in investigating rhythm and temporal processing.

Destiny Barker (Bachelor of Arts ’12; Criminology Diploma ’10; Applied Business Technology Certificate ’09) turned tragedy into opportunity after a car accident forced a career change, from legal administrative assistant to online business owner. She is the owner and operator of Lace N Pearls, an online bridal boutique specializing in wedding accessories, special occasion supplies and gifts. Check out her merch at lacenpearls.ca.

Katie Durvin (Bachelor of Arts ’13 Major in Global Studies) pursued a Master of Arts in International Affairs at the Norman Paterson School of International Affairs (NPSIA) at Carleton University after graduating from VIU. While completing her research project studying sexual and reproductive health and rights in humanitarian emergencies, she worked as a co-op student in the Global Health Policy & Nutrition Division at Global Affairs Canada, which led to a permanent job as a Policy Analyst for Global Affairs Canada with the Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Division.

Dani (Danielle) Smith (Bachelor of Arts ’13 Major in Physical Education, Diploma in Physical Education ’10), a member of Team Canada’s national volleyball team, got her start as a student and varsity athlete at VIU. She attended her first selection camp with the National Team in 2012 after being scouted during the 2012 CCAA National Championships hosted by VIU in Nanaimo – the year she helped the Mariners win gold in the VIU gym! This September she will play in the professional Pro A League in Nancy, France, and then moving with the national team to Vancouver. She plans to pursue a career in naturopathic medicine.

Since graduating from VIU, Heather Wall (Welding Certificate Level C ’13) is using her graphic design, interpretive design and illustration skills with a ‘C’ class welding ticket to produce beautiful sculptures and functional art pieces. Every project is custom-made – from sculptures and railings to doors and furniture, Heather is a master artist. Her business, Twisted Arc Designs Inc., can be found at hwallart.com.

Larissa Richards (Bachelor of Science ’13) is currently doing her PhD with the University of Victoria in Chemistry. Working in partnership with VIU’s Applied Environmental Research Laboratories (AERL), her research includes using a mass spectrometer in a mobile lab to make on-the-fly measurements of chemical contaminants in the air. She recently completed a six-week course at the Copenhagen School of Chemometrics with world renowned scientists in her field.

Matt Learner (Bachelor of Arts ’14) majored in History and Political Science at VIU and is completing his Master of Arts from Carleton University this year. His research focuses on Soviet nationality policy in Abkhazia, a region in the Caucasus, and he also conducted research in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan and Tbilisi, Georgia.

Gabrielle Bishop (Bachelor of Arts ’14 Major in Global Studies) was one of only five Canadian youth selected by the Young Diplomats of Canada to serve as a national delegate to the 2016 OECD Forum, which took place May 29 - June 2 in Paris. Gabrielle is also settling into her new Toronto-based role as Manager of Programs, Partnerships and Communications for WEConnect International, a global non-profit organization connecting women-owned businesses with market opportunities. Past experiences include working with the Trade Section of the Mission of Canada to the European Union in Brussels and Investment Trade Policy Division of the Department of Global Affairs headquarters in Ottawa. This spring, she completed graduate studies at the Norman Paterson School of International Affairs at Carleton University, where she studied international development projects and planning.

A Financial Advisor with Investors Group, Emeka Udeagha (Master of Business Administration ’14) and his team of five specialize in comprehensive financial planning for individuals and families on Vancouver Island and the mainland. He keeps busy by sitting on the Board of Directors for the Nanaimo Affordable Housing Society, is an Ambassador with the Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce, a committee member with the BC Alzheimer’s Society (in collaboration with the Investors Group Walk for Memories), and a Rotary Club Member. Emeka winds down by travelling and spending time outdoors with his spouse, Ronitah.

Ross Walker (Bachelor of Education ’15) won the BC amateur middleweight championship fight in his hometown. Held at Malaspina Theatre on June 4 against George Vourtsis of Gibsons, Ross’s boxing title win came while working as a Child and Youth Care Worker with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Vancouver Island. Shortly afterwards, Ross moved to La Loche, Saskatchewan, to take a teaching job. He hopes to start a boxing program for youth in that community.

John Adeyinka (Information Technology & Applied Systems Diploma ’16), travelled a long way to attend VIU – he’s originally from Nigeria. He was looking for a practical course that offers hands-on training and choosing VIU’s program paid off – he already has a job as a programmer with Real Estate Webmasters in Nanaimo. John’s family members flew in from both Nigeria and Toronto to watch him cross the stage in June.

Haoran Fang (Culinary Arts Certificate ’16) came to VIU to learn more about French cuisine – the Culinary Institute of Vancouver Island is known as one of the best culinary schools in Canada. His hard work paid off with an internship at Restaurant Andre in Singapore, which made No. 32 on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2016 list. After his internship, Haoran plans to work in Island restaurants for a while to get some more experience. He eventually hopes to open his own restaurant in Victoria or Nanaimo.

Jaime Howden (Certificate in Hairdressing ’16) graduated from VIU in June with a bit of silver to add to her kit. She received the Lieutenant Governor’s Silver Medal, which recognizes academic excellence and positive contributions to the university and community. Jaime is also one of VIU’s Youth in Care Tuition Waiver Program students, which supports students who have grown up in BC’s youth in care system by waiving tuition fees for their first certificate, diploma or degree program. Jaime, who has lived on her own since she turned 18, says the Tuition Waiver Program allowed her to focus on excelling in the classroom. She hopes to open her own salon one day.

Dilbert Garcia (Practical Nursing Diploma ’16) immigrated to Canada just four years ago from the Philippines, and he’s already made significant contributions to both his community and his school. His academic achievements and community involvement were recognized in May when he was given the Mike Coleman Award for Citizenship and the George Paine Award recognizing a student’s academic achievement and potential as a member of society. Dilbert helped out with VIU Cowichan’s World VIU Days annual event last November, and he’s also volunteered with the Cowichan Intercultural Society and  St. Edward’s Catholic Parish.

Deidre Tansey (Post-Degree Diploma in Business Studies ’16) returned to VIU as a mature student after raising her six children. During her career, she was fortunate to own a few small businesses, including a flower shop and dance studio. She also created a food blog called Just a Pinch of Ginger. Her passion for business and marketing brought her back to VIU to major in marketing. Deidre recently started a new business called Ampersand Media offering social media strategies for small businesses. A quote that she loves and lives by is, “Life of an entrepreneur: I wake up excited and terrified every day,” by Sarah Lacy.

COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT KUDOS

Two standout VIU students from different generations recently shared the same accolade: they were both honoured with the BC Community Achievement Award. Launched in 2003, this award is given to those who have made a significant contribution to their community, either as a volunteer or in the course of their work.

Don Hubbard’s VIU connection dates to 1965, when he took a heavy equipment course at what was then called the Vocational Training School. After a career in construction that included roles with Hub City Paving, the Warren Materials Group and Lafarge Canada, Hubbard returned to VIU in 2009 to study anthropology – a calling rooted in his fascination with dinosaurs. Hubbard has put his degree on hold due to other competing priorities, but he plans to complete it soon. Today, he sits on the boards of the VIU Foundation and The High School at VIU, is the Chair of Island Health, and helps with fundraising initiatives for the Haven Society. Hubbard’s past volunteer efforts include the Rotary Club and Ducks Unlimited Canada. He’s also the president of Hubbard Consulting Ltd., a mining and construction advisory firm.

Meanwhile, George Anderson (Bachelor of Arts ’15, Major in Criminology) credits VIU with giving him the skills needed to succeed at Osgoode Hall Law School of York University, where he’s currently studying – and playing in York’s Wind Symphony. Anderson has also contributed greatly to his community. At 20, he was one of the youngest people ever elected to Nanaimo City Council, where he served for three years (roles included Chair of Transportation and a Director of the Regional District of Nanaimo). Anderson has served as the Director of the Nanaimo-Ladysmith Schools Foundation and a Trustee for the Nanaimo Addiction Foundation. He has volunteered for organizations including Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Central Vancouver Island, the Salvation Army and the Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society. Last but not least, Anderson was a valedictorian for VIU and John Barsby Secondary School.

Congratulations, Don and George!

MERCY IN MADAGASCAR

Ever since Monica Ciolfi (Bachelor of Science in Nursing ’11) graduated from VIU, she had her sights set on volunteering with Mercy Ships, a charity that uses ships as floating hospitals to deliver life-saving medical care to some of the world’s poorest people. “I’ve always felt that it’s our responsibility as people to look after one another,” she explains.

Monica, who now works on Nanaimo Regional General Hospital’s third-floor post-operative care for general surgery unit, not only achieved that goal in 2015, but she returned in January 2016 for another three months. Both times, the ship was docked on the east coast of Madagascar. While there, she mostly cared for women receiving surgery for injuries sustained during difficult child births.

Her time with Mercy Ships has given Monica a renewed appreciation for the easy, affordable access to health care Canadians enjoy. “In Madagascar, the hospitals didn’t have running water. If you wanted your nurse to wear gloves while giving you care, you had to buy them for her.” But that wasn’t all Monica learned: “I also learned a lot about the culture in Madagascar, how to communicate with people who didn’t speak English, how to eat Malagasy food and how to feed lemurs.”

*This article originally appeared in the Fall/Winter 2016 issue of VIU Magazine. Check out more stories from the latest issue of VIU Magazine here.