One of the things I love most about Georgian is that we’re truly a global college. Out of our 12,488 students, Georgian is home to more than 6,300 full-time international students from 86 countries, speaking over 50 languages. International students enrich our classrooms, campuses and communities – and many stay after graduation to build a life in Canada.

In fact, according to a recent economic impact study by Lightcast analyzing the year 2022-23, it’s estimated that 50 per cent of international students remain in our region after finishing their time at Georgian. They’re helping to strengthen and grow our local economy, meet workforce demands and critical shortages, and influencing meaningful change as engaged and compassionate citizens who understand that we truly are stronger together.

You may have read my update to the Georgian community on major reforms to the International Student Program announced Jan. 22 by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. I want to reiterate to international alumni living and working in Central Ontario and beyond how much you’re valued by the college, employers and our communities.

I’m so glad you chose Georgian for your studies. I’m inspired by the courage it took to come to Canada to pursue your dreams, start or change careers, and we honour and celebrate these significant achievements. You’re an integral part of our growing global alumni network – 100,000 graduates strong – and we’re deeply grateful for your many contributions.

I’d also love to hear from you. I know Georgian international alumni are making an impact in our campus communities as entrepreneurs, business leaders and changemakers. Please reach out to alumni@georgiancollege.ca to share your story.

Wishing you all much happiness and success.

Chi-Miigwech, thank you.

Kevin Weaver

President and CEO Georgian College

Georgian’s Barrie Campus recently celebrated the transformation of 15,000 square feet of space, including a brand new, state-of-the-art simulation environment that is the only one of its kind in Ontario higher education. Read more about the new space and the people who made it possible.

Learn more about the new RPN-to-RN nursing degree program that will also benefit from the new learning spaces and technology.

Georgian students and the community were treated to two Black hair events designed to honour and display various hair types and educate the community about the unique ways in which hair plays a significant role in shaping our identities and histories. As a result, connections were fostered between clients and local service providers offering culturally specific services.

The Orillia Campus hosted its event on Feb. 13, while the Barrie Campus hosted the Feb. 15 event, which people could also attend virtually. Both featured a panel discussion focusing on various aspects of hair, including insights into the diversification of Georgian’s Hairstyling program curriculum, Afro-Indigenous perspectives and the presence of Black hair in professional settings. After the discussion, vendors and hair demonstrations were featured.

Learn more about EDB&I events at Georgian.

When Emily White moved to Barrie to attend Georgian’s Barrie Campus, she first fell in love with the city. Then she fell in love with her future husband. Read their love story that was written in honour of Valentine's Day.

Georgian alumnus, Rick McCombie (class of 1976) recently received a Fellow designation from CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant) Ontario. It’s the highest honour the Ontario accounting profession hands out. To make the occasion even better, he was nominated by his good friend, and fellow Georgian alumnus, David Free (Civil Engineering, class of 1979). David served on various engineering advisory committees through the 1980s and was named Board Chair of the Collingwood Campus in 1990. This recognition isn’t the only time Rick, a graduate of Business and Management Studies, has been honoured. He was also a Georgian Premier’s Award nominee in 2012.

It’s been five decades, yet Gord Harris (class of 1971) continues to use the engineering skills he developed at Georgian.

Gord registered in Georgian’s Civil Engineering Technologist program in 1968 – during the college’s second year of existence. Right after graduation, he gained some work experience in the Georgian engineering labs and then moved to Bognor to work in the Owen Sound Bell Canada engineering department.

In 1973 he launched Grey Bruce Coatings & Insulation, which keeps him busy to this day, although it’s now run by his son. Just this fall, Gord and his family celebrated the 50th anniversary of their business, which continues to thrive with 12 employees.

“I use my engineering background every day in our insulation and construction business. One of the biggest attributes of my CET (Certified Engineering Technologist) designation is that it gives me credibility and acceptance in my working world,” Gord said. “A wise man, my Dad, once told me, as I was trying to sort out what to do after high school: ‘an education is not hard to carry around.’ Truer words were never spoken, it hasn't been hard at all.”

Get your tickets for Georgian Night at the Barrie Colts vs. Mississauga Steelheads

Bring your fellow graduates for a night of fun. There’s still time to secure your tickets for our annual Georgian Night at the Barrie Colts! Don’t miss out on this action-packed event that’s fun for friends and families. Get your tickets before they’re gone – March 7 will be here sooner than you think! 

Annual Georgian College Traditional Pow Wow

Join us at the Barrie Campus on Saturday, March 9, 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. to celebrate Indigenous culture and traditions. The Pow Wow is a time to gather and celebrate. Attendees who have never been to a Pow Wow before are encouraged to participate, sample traditional food, explore craft vendors and enjoy the beautiful sound of the drum.

Learn more about this event.

All 'fore' the students

Graduates are invited to tee up support for students through the 33rd Georgian College Golf Classic, presented by BMO Bank of Montreal, taking place at the Club at Bond Head on Thursday, May 23. 

For information about foursomes, sponsorships, donating auction items and/or volunteering on the day of the event, visit GeorgianCollege.ca/golfclassic.

As one of Central Ontario’s most prominent and longest-running tournaments, the proceeds raised at the Georgian’s Golf Classic support critical funding for student awards, scholarships and bursaries and will see approximately 288 golfers hit the course for some spirited fun.

Our sold-out tournament in 2022 raised over $155,000 to support students and provided golfers with a uniquely Georgian experience. Golfers started the day at massage stations, competed in hole-in-one contests and a putting challenge, as well as enjoyed live entertainment with an auction and gourmet dinner. For 2024, we are committed to making the tournament even more spectacular with new prize offerings, expanded guest experiences and a variety of ways to support student success.

Questions? Reach out to Jessica Comella at jessica.comella@georgiancollege.ca.

Internationally recognized indigenous artists showcased

Exploring the world and issues affecting contemporary Indigenous cultures is at the heart of the newest exhibition at Georgian College’s Campus Gallery.