AC Film and Media Production students showcasing documentaries on PBS Dec. 16

A captivating lineup of documentaries produced by talented Film and Media Production students at Algonquin College will premiere on PBS on Saturday, Dec. 16 at 10 p.m. The documentaries will include:

A Table for All will shed light on Canada’s food scarcity issue through the perspective of workers and clients at the Kemptville food bank. This documentary emphasizes the crucial role of food banks in communities, aiming to raise awareness about food scarcity affecting millions worldwide.

AI Vs Creativity explores the impact of artificial intelligence on creativity. Through real narratives, the documentary examines AI’s evolving complexity and its effects on creative industries, featuring insights from Algonquin College professors and AI professionals.

All Play No Work: A Story of Dan Sexton follows Dan Sexton, a vibrant individual living with disability, challenging stereotypes and celebrating individuality. Through Dan’s story, the film uplifts and supports the broader disability community.

Amanita Muscaria showcases the unifying power of fungi and its ability to bring people together. Directed by Maya Copeland, this heartfelt adventure explores family connections through nature’s incredible fungi.

Beyond The Spotlight offers an exclusive look into the dedication and artistry of the Carleton University Ravens Dance Pak. Audiences will witness the team’s commitment and stunning performances.

Life Without Sound examines the challenges and triumphs of Ben, a deaf young adult, and his family. Follow their journey as they navigate life and explore Ben’s experiences growing up deaf.

Two Souls is an emotional documentary delving into the story of a residential school survivor, “Two Souls,” filmed in Waswanipi, Que., shares the hardships and triumphs of PomPom, offering an educational narrative about Indigenous rights and the resilience of Indigenous individuals.

Miranda Magoo, Artist follows the journey of Canadian artist Miranda Magoo’s past, present and future aspirations within the niche comics world.


Cheryl Hardwick receives first-ever Employee Changemaker Award

Cheryl Hardwick poses with President Claude Brulé and Board of Governors Chair James McCracken.

On Monday, Dec. 11, Pre-Service Firefighter Education and Training (PSFF) professor Cheryl Hardwick received the first-ever Employee Changemaker Award.

The new award is designed as a way for the board to formally acknowledge exceptional employee efforts. It is based on the long-standing Student Changemaker Award; both awards will continue to be featured in future board meetings.

Hardwick was recognized for going above and beyond in her efforts to further student success. Since joining the College in 2014, she has helped to develop several PSFF initiatives, including the Community Risk Reduction Showcase, where PSFF learners instruct the broader community on fire prevention and public safety best practices; the Discovery Day for Young Women Firefighters, which encouraged women to explore the firefighting field; the Metabolic Heat Build Up Exercise, which saw PSFF learners conduct exercises with Paramedic learners; the Life Skills Class and Summer Camp Day for AAADD Learners, which saw PSFF volunteers support the Academic Assistance for Adults with Developmental Disabilities program; and the Firefighter Boot Drive, which raised $2,810.97 for the Algonquin Students’ Association Food Cupboard in 2022.

“Cheryl’s strong commitment to student success goes beyond the classroom,” reads Hardwick’s award application. “She models the importance of giving back to the community and works with the students to encourage action.”

Congratulations, Cheryl!


Algonquin College welcomes federal ministers for Canadian Dental Care Plan Announcement

On Monday, Dec. 11, Algonquin College showcased its Dental Clinic and welcomed Ministers Mark Holland, Seamus O’Regan, Terry Beech, and Jean-Yves Duclos to its Ottawa Campus today as part of the Government of Canada’s announcement of the new Canadian Dental Care Plan.

“Algonquin College is the largest community college in Eastern Ontario, providing flexible and personalized industry expert-led polytechnic-level education and training at our campuses in Ottawa, Pembroke, Perth and AC Online, that gives our market-ready graduates with global, competitive knowledge and skills, allowing them to hit the ground running and be effective, contributing members of any organization they join,” said President and CEO Claude Brulé. “We take immense pride in being an integral part of the economic engine and the cultural fabric of the National Capital Region, the province of Ontario and Canada, and helping employers in every sector to find the skilled talent they need for their success and prosperity.”

The ministers’ visit included a photo op in the College’s Dental Clinic with learners, and a brief question period with media outlets such as CTV, CBC and Global News.

The announcement brings with it strong career prospects for those in the College’s Dental Hygiene and Dental Assisting programs. The Dental Assisting program currently has open availability for those wishing to begin in January 2024.

Federal Ministers Mark Holland, Seamus O'Regan, Terry Beech, and Jean-Yves Duclos pose for photo op in Algonquin College's dental lab as part of the Government of Canada’s historic announcement of the new Canadian Dental Care Plan.

Federal Ministers Mark Holland, Seamus O’Regan, Terry Beech, and Jean-Yves Duclos pose for photo op in Algonquin College’s Dental Clinic as part of the Government of Canada’s announcement of the new Canadian Dental Care Plan.