Fleming College

Peterborough, ON – (October 19, 2023) – Get ready to cheer for some extraordinary achievements as Fleming College steps into the spotlight with the exciting announcement that six of its alumni have been nominated for the highly regarded 2023 Premier’s Awards.

Since its inception in 1992, the Premier’s Awards have been a symbol of recognition for exceptional talent. Colleges Ontario hosts these awards annually to shine a well-deserved spotlight on graduates across Ontario’s 24 colleges who are making significant contributions within the province and beyond.

These awards serve as an annual tribute to the profound impact that college graduates have on society and the economy through their dedicated efforts. Covering a range of categories including Apprenticeship, Business, Community Services, Creative Arts and Design, Health Sciences, Recent Graduate, and Technology, the Premier’s Awards honour a diverse array of achievements.

“Fleming is proud of the important accomplishments these alumni have made,” said Fleming College President Maureen Adamson. “They have made a difference in the communities that they serve; the fundamental fabric of all Fleming graduates.”

Let’s shine the spotlight on the exceptional nominees representing Fleming College for the 2023 Premier’s Awards:

BUSINESS
Dylan Trepanier, Business Administration – Marketing ‘18

Dylan Trepanier has achieved remarkable success in his career. Dylan is Chief Executive Officer and founder of Eye Care Ontario, a business dedicated to addressing the vision-loss crisis. Dylan’s team developed a ground-breaking virtual eye test, which received FDA clearance in the United States and approval from Health Canada as a Class 1 Medical Device. With over one million users served to date, Eye Care Ontario has created opportunities related to vision services at a scale never before possible. Through his innovative work, Dylan is revolutionizing healthcare and improving the quality of life for individuals with vision loss.

COMMUNITY SERVICES
Heather George, Museum Management and Curatorship ‘08

Heather George is a prominent leader in the Canadian museum sector. As Executive Director of the Woodland Cultural Centre, she has been a strong advocate for promoting Indigenous perspectives and creating opportunities for Indigenous artists and curators. She was elected as President of the Canadian Museums Association in 2021, where she has led a national review of museum policies and their relationship with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Heather’s leadership in advancing reconciliation and promoting Indigenous perspectives has been widely recognized in the Canadian museum sector.

CREATIVE ARTS & DESIGN
Rochelle Byrne, Ecosystem Management Technology ‘12

Rochelle Byrne, the Executive Director of A Greener Future, takes centre stage in the powerful environmental documentary “Shoreline: The Paddle Against Plastic.” As producer, Rochelle embarks on a remarkable 430km paddle journey across Lake Ontario, using her passion to raise awareness about the detrimental impact of plastic on the environment. Amidst the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, which hindered public cleanups, Rochelle’s determination shines as she paddles 18 days along the shores of Lake Ontario. “Shoreline” showcases the profound connection between recreation and environmental stewardship, inspiring individuals to join the effort in creating a greener environment for future generations.

HEALTH SCIENCES
Vanessa Raaymakers, Practical Nursing ‘21

Vanessa Raaymakers is a healthcare professional who demonstrated exceptional dedication during the COVID-19 pandemic. Volunteering at a long-term care home in Toronto, she provided critical front-line assistance during a severe outbreak. Amidst the uncertainties of the pandemic, Vanessa utilized her skills, experience, and empathy to support residents, staff, and grieving family members. She played a vital role in implementing essential policies and procedures to ensure the safety of all involved, collaborating with health networks and public health authorities. Vanessa’s unwavering commitment to serving others highlight her remarkable dedication to the healthcare sector and her compassion for those in need.

RECENT GRADUATE
Naman Khandelwal, Global Business Management ‘19

Naman Khandelwal, a recent college graduate, has achieved remarkable milestones in his career, with a focus on commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. In his role as the Manager of Client Services, Naman focuses on bridging the gap between student needs and the services offered by the college. By leading a newly established customer service department, he worked to enhance the overall college experience for students by addressing their concerns and ensuring their needs were met. Through his leadership, Naman has become a catalyst for change, championing the rights and welfare of underrepresented individuals.

TECHNOLOGY
Evan Hall, Environmental Visual Communication ‘12

Evan Hall, CEO of Wittaya Aqua, is a leading figure in aquaculture technology, renowned for his data-driven solutions in farm and aquafeed management. He guided Wittaya Aqua to global recognition, winning the prestigious Global Aquaculture Challenge against 180 competitors and securing a $120,000 USD prize. Recently, the company secured an additional $2.5 million USD from investors worldwide, spanning Asia, the UK, and the U.S. Hall’s vision includes integrating Internet of Things (IoT) technologies and enhancing forecasting capabilities, revolutionizing farm management through data-driven decision making. His remarkable achievements propel Wittaya Aqua’s global success in the aquaculture industry.

The Premier’s Award nominees will be recognized, and winners announced, at a gala event in Toronto on November 27, 2023. To nominate a deserving Fleming graduate for a 2024 Premier’s Award, please contact the Advancement and Alumni Relations Office at e-mail alumni@flemingcollege.ca.

About Fleming College
Fleming College respectfully acknowledges that we are situated on Michi Saagiig Anishinaabeg lands and territory. Located in the heart of Central Ontario, Fleming College has campus locations in Peterborough, Lindsay, Cobourg and Haliburton. Named for famous Canadian inventor and engineer Sir Sandford Fleming, the college features more than 100 full-time programs in Arts and Heritage, Business, Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences, General Arts and Sciences, Health and Wellness, Justice and Community Development, Skilled Trades and Technology, and Continuing Education. Fleming College has more than 6,800 full-time and 10,000 part-time students, and 80,000 alumni.

For media enquiries, please contact:
Sarah Deeth
Communications Officer
sarah.deeth@flemingcollege.ca
705-749-5530 ext. 1161

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