Issue link: http://georgiancollege.uberflip.com/i/602646
GEORGIAN STUDENTS MAKE LARGEST GIFT EVER TO THE POWER OF EDUCATION CAMPAIGN G eorgian students lead busy lives with varied schedules and they want more options to accelerate their learning. That is why the Georgian College Students' Associations (GCSA) at the Barrie, Orillia and Owen Sound campuses voted unanimously to contribute $7.2 million over 10 years to the college's Power of Education campaign to help transform the student experience. It is the largest campaign contribution in Georgian's history. The funding will support several important initiatives including one that will serve all students at all seven campuses. An online portal will allow students to access services anytime, anywhere, from any device. Through the portal, they'll be able to chat with an expert, access online reference materials and software from Georgian libraries and labs, book online appointments with their advisors, buy their books and meal plans, and more. "My job is to do what is best for all students and to look ahead at all the possibilities," said Jordana Osetti, past GCSA President, Barrie Campus. "Just as past student councils have invested in projects that I'm reaping the benefits of today, I think it's important to leave a legacy for future students, which is why I'm proud to support these projects as a student." The GCSA also chose to invest in new facilities that will enhance their athletic and common spaces at the Barrie, Orillia and Owen Sound campuses, including: › A new Student Services Centre (Barrie Campus) › A new sports field (Barrie Campus) › An expansion to the Orillia Campus to include a Centre for Community Safety and Centre for Social Entrepreneurship › Fitness facility and cafeteria upgrades (Owen Sound Campus) "I'm proud of our students for leading the way in our campaign to transform the student experience," said MaryLynn West-Moynes, President and CEO. "I have no doubt that their contribution will inspire others to give in support of our future thinkers, creators, leaders and doers." BOARD OF GOVERNORS CHAIR CHAMPIONS FAMILY CAMPAIGN TO ACCELERATE STUDENT SUCCESS O ne of Tom McBride's highlights from serving on Georgian's Board of Governors for five years has been attending convocations to hear how students' experiences at Georgian have changed their lives. That personal contact is what has driven him to spearhead the Family Campaign amongst board members since 2013. He continues to do so as board Chair for the 2015-16 term. The campaign encourages board members, employees, retirees and alumni to donate to a variety of funds to help students financially through emergency situations and to encourage their success. "Georgian College is blessed with a great family that understands the pressures on students today," says Tom. "This campaign is an ideal way for people to express their concern and to show leadership on these issues." He gives personally because he believes education for all is a necessity. "Students and their families put many years of effort into preparing to attend Georgian College. All too often financial resources are not adequate and donating could make a big difference in someone's life," he says. Tom, a longtime Barrie resident, looks forward to a year of advocating for Georgian in all the communities the college serves. 25 GEORGIANVIEW 2015 TRANSFoRMING THE STUDENT EXPERIENCE