CNW Group speaker visits Loyalist PR

Many thanks to Tarah Cherwoniak of CNW Group for spending the afternoon with us here in the Post-Graduate Public Relations Program.

Tarah made a great presentation on MediaVantage, a media monitoring and management system offered by CNW Group of Toronto.

Thanks for stopping by, Tarah! We enjoyed your visit.

Loyalist PR: one sweet program!

Not only do we have the world's best students in the Post-Grad Public Relations Program, we also have the world's best parents of students.

Thanks for the cookies (again), Ms. Ashbridge -- will you be our valentine?

Loyalist PR welcomes distinguished guest

Many thanks to Graham Murray, government relations specialist with the Government of Ontario who stopped by to spend time with our Post-Graduate Public Relations students this afternoon.

With more than 40 years of experience under his belt, Mr. Murray shared his wit and wisdom with our students today, as we wrapped up Government Relations Week here in Loyalist PR.

Thanks for taking the time to travel from Toronto to spend your day with us, Mr. Murray!

University grads: considering post-grad PR?

"I knew I needed more than my degree in the competitive field of international development.

I saw the Post-Grad Public Relations program as an opportunity to gain hands-on skills and combine them with my university theory.

At Loyalist I’ve gained the confidence to tell employers 'I can,' rather than, 'I think I can.' I could not be happier with my career."

~ Alex Sancton, Internal Communications Manager, World Vision (Canada); Alex is a graduate of Loyalist PR and Dalhousie University's International Development Program.

Loyalist PR students set volleyball records

Congrats to Kyle Donnan (pictured above) and Matt Woods, two Loyalist PR students who recently set records in men's OCAA volleyball.

According to the OCAA, "fifth-year left side Kyle Donnan (Pickering, Ont.) broke the all-time Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) career record for kills last Sunday in a 3-2 (25-27, 25-19, 23-25, 25-21, 15-12) victory over Boreal.

Donnan's eight kills now gives him 724 for his career, surpassing the old record of 719 set by Redeemer's Ryan Talsma during the 2009-10 season. Donnan entered this season in third place on the all-time list.

Earlier this season, fifth-year teammate Matt Woods (Pickering, Ont.) set the all-time OCAA record for service aces. Woods now has 157 to his credit, surpassing the old record of 133 set by Trent's Ian Rettie in 2009-10. Woods entered this season in second place on the all-time list.Both Donnan and Woods have eight more games remaining to pad their records. Loyalist is currently in fifth place in the OCAA East region with a record of 8-4. The top six teams earn a post-season berth.The OCAA men's volleyball championship will take place at Nipissing University in North Bay, Ont. from Feb. 23-25."

Way to go, Kyle and Matt!

Focus group training for PR students

Loyalist PR students were honoured to welcome Ellen Cooper, President of Quadra Research to our classroom yesterday.

Ellen provided us with some excellent teaching on how to hold an effective focus group, and even provided the opportunity for some Oscar-winning role playing!

Thanks for stopping by, Ellen!

PR students attend writing workshop

Big thanks to Greg Frankson (aka Ritallin) who joined us yesterday for a dynamic performance/workshop session on slam poetry writing.

Why slam poetry in a PR class? To loosen the brain muscles and get us thinking in new and unexpected ways, of course!

This week has been all about challenging ourselves to get back in the creative groove -- and it's definitely produced some great work (not to mention lots of laughs).

Thanks for an amazing workshop, Greg. Always a pleasure!

Grad Profile: Kasey Pollard (2010/11)

Today's graduate profile features Kasey Pollard (2010/11) who is now employed as the Destination Development Coordinator with Hastings County in the Planning and Economic Development Department.

Prior to enrolling in Post-Graduate Public Relations at Loyalist College, Kasey completed a Honours B.A. in Tourism and Environment at Brock University.

Loyalist PR: Why did you choose to enrol in the Post-Graduate Public Relations Program at Loyalist College?

Kasey: I chose to go to Loyalist after I took a tour of the campus. I was impressed by the size of the classes and the way the school felt like a community.

After attending larger campuses, like the University of Waterloo and Brock University, I knew I wanted to study somewhere were the instructor to student ratio was lower. However, the main deciding factor was that the only program coordinator to send an in-depth email that answered my questions, and then some, was from Kerry, which basically sealed the deal for me.

Loyalist PR: Can you describe some of your current duties as a Destination Development Coordinator with Hastings County?

Kasey: My primary duties involve coordinating the Premier-Ranked Tourism Destination Development Project and acting as a liaison between the many tourism stakeholders across the county.

Some tasks include organizing meetings, managing the website, promoting tourism initiatives and increasing online presence through social media, and assisting tasks groups with developing tourism assets (like recreational geology, the Arts Route and wellness tourism).

Loyalist PR: How did Loyalist PR help prepare you for your current position?

Kasey: The PR program gave me a wealth of tools that enabled me to make use of the degree I got in University. I didn’t know how to connect the dots between theory and practice after I graduated, and knew I needed some hands on skills that would bridge the gaps.

Since Loyalist PR, I can now effectively communicate the knowledge I have on sustainable tourism and community development. From print interviews to presenting ideas to different audiences and knowing how to writing for various platforms, I’m now prepared and feel confident with my work.

Loyalist PR: Any highlights from your year in Loyalist PR?

Kasey: When I look back on the year, it seems every day had a highlight of its own – thanks to the colourful personality of classmates. If I had to pick two, the United Way Fundraiser and the Christmas Party at Wayne’s were definitely memorable.

Loyalist PR: Any words of advice for this year's students?

Kasey: Now that the second semester is here, it’ll soon be time for internships. Make sure to give it your all wherever you find your placement and go above and beyond with your work. Whether or not your internship turns into a full-time job, you’ll gain invaluable contacts that will someday make or break a future opportunity.

Loyalist PR: Thanks, Kasey - and good luck with your career!

Grad Profile: Troy Stewart, Snap Design

Today's Grad Profile features Troy Stewart (2010/11) who is now employed as the Marketing Strategist at Snap Design in Belleville, Ontario.

Prior to enrolling in the Post-Graduate Public Relations Program at Loyalist College, Troy completed an Honors Bachelor of Arts at the University of Western Ontario.

Loyalist PR: What made you decide to enroll in Loyalist PR?

Troy Stewart: I chose Loyalist PR due to the great reputation it had. I researched online and found this blog, and also spoke with Kerry Ramsay through emails. The active online presence plus Kerry’s quick email responses were a large factor.

Looking at the various course outlines on the Loyalist PR site also appealed to me more than other competing PR programs. They seemed much more specific, and were fit into a one year program rather than two or three year diplomas.

Also, the smaller city size of Belleville was a large factor as I did not want to move somewhere within the GTA. Coming from London, I had already experienced a large city and I liked the small, picturesque city of Belleville

Loyalist PR: What are some of your typical duties in your role as Marketing Strategist with Snap Design?

Troy Stewart: Typical duties include meeting with clients, preparing marketing reports, handling social media/PR and overall marketing of Snap, creating proposals and attending networking events. There are a lot of different roles that I play depending on the day.

Loyalist PR: How would you say Loyalist PR helped prepare you for your current role?

Troy Stewart: Pretty much everything in Loyalist PR helped me with my current role! The overall introduction to marketing and branding really helped me to understand not just PR, but marketing in general. Now that I am doing marketing, and not just PR, it has been a huge help. As well, PR professionals will need to know marketing, even if they just focus on PR.

The focus on social media helped immensely as well, since it is such an emerging communications channel. I’ve continued to keep up my “class assignment” blog while simultaneously running Snap Design’s blog.

I find the key to social media is not just making a post and waiting for people to comment, but to actively seek out popular bloggers and Tweeters, and then create a discussion with them.

Working with clients, especially in the second semester, really helped with learning how to deal with clients and understanding their desires. With my university background I was comfortable with writing reports, and Loyalist PR helped refined those skills.

Loyalist PR: Can you share with us any highlights of your year with Loyalist PR?

Troy Stewart: The trip to Toronto and meeting George Strombolopolous was a great experience. That was a highlight for me. Got to see Steamwhistle and their great marketing team while also seeing George who has always been an icon to me since his days at Much Music.

Another highlight was the Christmas Party at Wayne’s! Held at Castle Carruthers, it was great hearing Santa rap, while having a great time with secret Santa.

Lastly, the PRISM awards were a great highlight for me as well. The team I was in won the Respect Campaign awards, which was a great accomplishment because we put a lot of effort into that report! It’s great to see what the campaign has done this year, and it is great to know that we may have improved the College for the better.

Loyalist PR: Any advice for current or future Loyalist PR students?

Troy Stewart: I would say networking as soon as possible is key to success. I really believe that if you have a passion and connect with people, you will be successful. Get out there, get people to know you and when it comes time to search for an internship or job, people won’t just see you as another resume, they’ll know you for who you are.

Loyalist PR: Any final thoughts?

Troy Stewart: It was a great year at Loyalist PR and thanks for having me write a guest blog post! I hope all students of this program the best of success in whatever path they choose.

Loyalist PR: Thanks, Troy and we wish you continued success in what promises to be a wonderful career!

Thought for today:

"When you're finished changing, you're finished." ~ Benjamin Franklin

Guest speaker from TalentEgg

Today Loyalist PR students welcomed an alumna of the program, Amanda Attard (Loyalist PR 2006/07) back into the classroom, this time as a guest speaker.

Amanda, who is now a Client Relations Specialist with TalentEgg (based in Toronto), guided students through the agency's web site and job search features which are ideally suited for many graduating college and university students.

Thanks for dropping by, Amanda -- it was great to see you again!

$29,805 for the United Way of Quinte!

Loyalist PR students were on hand today to help present a cheque for $29,805 to the United Way of Quinte.

In addition to Loyalist PR's "United Way Truckload Sale" which raised $18,611, the Loyalist College community donated an additional $11,194 thanks to pancake breakfast, employee donations, the annual Police Run and other fundraising efforts.

Way to go, Loyalist!

Photo by Martina Sansom

Guest speaker from Canada Dry Mott's

Big thanks to Alison Bing, Communications Manager for Canada Dry Mott's who stopped by to speak to Loyalist PR students this past week.

Offering great case studies and branding insights from a corporate point of view, Alison held our attention and inspired us with her energy, skill and enthusiasm.

We appreciate you stopping by, Alison!

Loyalist PR at Kingston conference

Today Loyalist PR students took part in a full day of conference programming at National Philanthropy Day in downtown Kingston.

The day was filled with learning, networking and general merriment (of course!).

Thanks to AFP Kingston for the opportunity to take part in this important conference. We'll see you again next year!

Loyalist PR student in Rick Hansen Relay

Congrats to Loyalist PR student Casey Telford who recently took part in the Rick Hansen 25th Anniversary Relay in Trenton.

We're proud of you, Casey!

Loyalist PR alumni panel rocks the house!

Huge thanks to the Loyalist PR alumni students who took part in today's Alumni Panel. What an awesome event!

Today's panel included:

Jess Stevens, Promotions Coordinator, Ottawa Senators Hockey Club

Mike Masaro, Coordinator of PR/Media Relations for Toronto FC

Jeannie Maidens, Special Events Coordinator, Municipality of Port Hope

Wayne Carruthers, Design and Development Coordinator, Hospice Prince Edward

Erin Bellwood, Supervisor of Retail Operations, Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment

Chris Thompson, Manager, Sens Store (and former graphics design with) the Ottawa Senators Hockey Club

Melanie Barrett, Marketing & Communications Coordinator, Albert College

Phil Jolicoeur, Owner of Phil PR

Ashley MacCormack, Fundraising Events Coordinator, Canadian Cancer Society (Ottawa)

Luc Fournier, Special Events Coordinator, Trenton Memorial Hospital Foundation

Sara Hamil, Social Media Manager, Quinte Pediatrics

Loved seeing you all again - thanks so much for taking part in our Loyalist PR Alumni Panel!

Loyalist PR raises $18,611 for United Way!

What a day! In a mere five hours, Loyalist PR students raised an impressive $18,611 in support of the United Way of Quinte with their Campus Truckload sale.

Special thanks and recognition to our corporate sponsors, Procter & Gamble, Kelloggs, Wilson Sports and Meyers Transport.

Amazing day, amazing effort and amazing results!

What more can we say - way to go, everyone!

Loyalist PR helps out at United Way Breakfast

Big thanks to all the Loyalist PR students who showed up EARLY at the college to help out with the United Way Kick-Off Pancake Breakfast this week.

Your community spirit truly helped inspire others and your enthusiasm made the event a great success.

Way to go, everyone!

Photos by Marilyn Warren

Roadtrip: Loyalist PR heads to Toronto

Perfect fall weather helped make yesterday's Loyalist PR trip to Toronto an unforgettable day.

After an early start (6:30 a.m. - ouch!), we headed first to Steam Whistle Brewing where Communications Director Sybil Taylor led us through a fantastic branding presentation. Students also had a chance to tour the brewery, adding to the fun of the experience.
After a great patio lunch (minus the wasps), we met up with Jeremy Cammy, Executive Producer, Events & Marketing and members of his team at Indigo headquarters on King Street West (see photo above). Following an interactive and informative presentation, we were all delighted to dive into our swag bags (books for everyone!) -- thanks, Indigo!

Our next stop was CBC Studios, home of George Strombolopolous Tonight. With special guests Ron MacLean of Hockey Night in Canada, celebrated authoress Margaret Atwood and New York Times columnist and author Thomas Friedman in the house, students and faculty enjoyed a great taping, complete with plenty of humour thrown in by audience relations guy, Fraser.

Big thanks to George who once again took out time from his schedule to chat with us and make us feel at home on his home turf.
On what little adrenaline we had left, we powered home, spurred on by Top Gun and the likes.

Great trip, everyone - hope you enjoyed it as much as we did!

Have a great Thanksgiving weekend!

Photos by Aaron Bell

United Way Campus Truckload Sale!

Back by popular demand, the 2nd annual Campus Truckload Sale in support of the United Way of Quinte will take place Wednesday, October 19th beginning at 8 a.m. in the Loyalist College cafeteria.

This bargain hunter’s dream is being hosted once again by the Post-Graduate Public Relations students of Loyalist College. Products for the fundraiser are being donated by a number of local manufacturers, and are expected to include personal hygiene items, cereals and snack products, sports equipment and much more, all at drastically reduced prices.

Since the Post-Graduate Public Relations program began in 2005, PR students have raised more than $22,000 with their fall United Way event fundraiser.

"The Campus Truckload Sale is a great way to support more than 50 United Way member agencies in our local community, while at the same time providing valuable, hands-on learning experience to our public relations students,” says Kerry Ramsay, Professor and Co-ordinator of the Post-Graduate Public Relations Program at Loyalist College.

Participants are advised to come early for the best deals. We hope to see you there!

Grad Profile: Shannon Clark (PR 2010/11)

Today’s grad profile features Shannon Clark (Loyalist PR 2010/11) who is now employed as the Assistant Coordinator for the Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC).

Prior to enrolling in Loyalist PR, Shannon completed a diploma in Social Service Work.

Loyalist PR: What are some of your current job duties at EDAC?

Shannon Clark: My duties range from event logistics (hotel accommodations, conference space, meals, facilitation) to overseeing tourism activities, communicating with partners and sponsors and coordinating vendors. And much more!

Loyalist PR: What made you decide to take Loyalist PR?

SC: I wanted to make a change in my life and had done a lot of soul seeking and research. I wanted to work with people on some level - I liked the vastness of Public Relations and it seemed to fit my personality.

Loyalist PR: How did Loyalist PR help prepare you for your current position?

SC: It prepared me in more ways than I thought. The beginning of the year starts off in organizing a United Way fundraiser. I took away many tools from that experience into my position now. Also, the fact that everything you learn in the year you will have to use in some form within your employment.

Loyalist PR: What were some of the highlights from your year in Loyalist PR?

SC: There were many - George Strombolopolous, United Way fundraiser and the friendships I made along the way.

Loyalist PR: Any advice for students entering the program this fall?

SC: Be positive and open to new situations. Take it seriously but also have fun, it will pay off in the end if you want it to.

Loyalist PR: Thanks, Shannon – and we wish you continued success as you continue on your career path!

Loyalist PR students want you to vote!

Don't forget: October 6th is general election day in Ontario!

Kodie and Elysia (above) of this year's Post-Graduate Public Relations Program encourage you to get out and have your say!

For more info on the election, click here.

Grad Profile: Logan Morrison (2010/11)

Today’s grad profile features Logan Morrison (Loyalist PR 2010/11) who is now employed as the Events and Logistics Manager with REC Promotions, the leading professional mixed martial arts promotion company in Ottawa, Ontario.

Prior to enrolling in Loyalist PR, Logan achieved his Advanced Diploma in Television and New Media Production at Loyalist College.

Loyalist PR: Tell us about some of the duties you perform in your current role at REC Promotions.

Logan Morrison: We host seven events a year: three pro MMA events, three amateur Muay Thai and one Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Open. I am in charge of the general organization, budget, sponsorship, marketing, promoting, selling tickets, contract negotiations and event logistics and organizing.

Loyalist PR: What made you decide to take Loyalist PR?

LM: I had a short time finishing TVNM as a Producer, and I did well, but thought I could improve on how I interacted with the "corporate" side. PR did that and more.

Loyalist PR: How did Loyalist PR help prepare you for your current position?

LM: I have always been a people person, but PR honed my skills, made me more organized and focused on personal, and business goals as well. I learned how to make non-profit events, and how to 'ask'.

Loyalist PR: What were some of the highlights from your year in Loyalist PR?

LM: My highlights in PR were getting "back to basics", where we would say "this is ridiculous, I did this in grade school" only to realize we forgot how. Talking to people from alumni who JUST graduated, and know the in's and out's, not people who graduated 40 years ago, telling you how it was.

True Colours also taught me a lot about myself, and how to react to others. My push to get the internship I wanted, and getting it was a great highlight. My greatest highlight was organizing the PRISM Awards [end-of-the-year PR awards banquet], because it lead me to my new career.

Loyalist PR: Any advice for students entering the program this fall?

LM: Don't stop believin'! Personally, PR was how I took my steps towards my dream job. If you want to be that someone who makes a difference to the public by adhering to its needs, then follow that dream like I did.

Loyalist PR: Great advice – keep making us proud!

Grad Profile: Colleen Vickers-Kleywegt ('11)

Today's grad profile features Colleen Vickers-Kleywegt (Loyalist PR 2010/11) who is now employed full-time as the Special Events Co-ordinator for the City of Quinte West.

Prior to enrolling in the Post-Graduate Public Relations Program at Loyalist College, Colleen completed the Travel & Tourism Program at Loyalist, and worked for several years in the travel and customer service industry.

Loyalist PR: Tell us about your duties as Special Events Co-ordinator for the City of Quinte West.

Colleen Vickers-Kleywegt: Some of the things I do as part of my job are: write media releases, do media interviews, contact local businesses and organizations etc to solicit for both volunteers and donations for various festivals, events, and initiatives, grant writing, planning of events.

I also sit on several committees as the City Liaison, sometimes take minutes at meetings, meet with new potential event contacts, design posters and literature, track budgeting.

There is such a variety to the things I do. That's why I love this job, and the PR program definitely prepared me for it. All of the things I am doing are things we learned in class. It feels really good to use these new skills, and feel confident in doing so.

Loyalist PR: Can you share with us any highlights from your year in Loyalist PR?

CVK: My year in the PR program was a great one. I made some great friends, I had a great time, and I learned so much. The PR program is the reason I can say that I love my job! Some of my favourite memories are the Toronto Trip... from pictures with Strombo (!) to the Steam Whistle Brewing visit, and the strange man who invaded our presentation at RBC. It was a great time. Also the United Way Fundraiser and just the time we spent in class together.

Loyalist PR: Do you have any advice for this year's Loyalist PR students?

CVK: I would say just go for it! Follow your dreams, have fun this year, learn all that you can and make as many friends as you can.

Be involved in everything, try everything and take time to appreciate the year because it goes by quickly, and then it's gone.

Loyalist PR: Thanks, Colleen and the best of luck in the future!

Loyalist PR kicks off first week of classes...

What a great first week with the new Loyalist PR crew!

It's been a whirlwind few days of getting to know each other, with a little pizza and beach volleyball thrown in for good measure.

All in a week's work...

Great way to "start it up", everyone!"

Photo by Aaron Bell

Grad Profile: Gloria Fletcher (PR 2010/11)

Today’s grad profile features Gloria Fletcher (Loyalist PR 2010/11) who is now employed as the Marketing Manager at Applefest Lodge in Brighton, Ontario.

Prior to enrolling in the Post-Graduate Public Relations Program at Loyalist College, Gloria worked for 14 years in the Canadian military as an aircraft technician, and almost 12 years as a production planner in the aircraft industry. As Gloria puts it, she is a “graduate of the School of Life – with honours!”

Loyalist PR: Tell us about some of your current duties as Marketing Manager at Applefest Lodge.

Gloria Fletcher: My duties are varied. Primarily it is my job to create awareness of the facility in the surrounding areas; the end goal of course is to fill the new wing. I do that in a lot of ways. I plan special events, attend events representing the facility, promote thru news releases and media releases, thru networking and of course social media when I can.

I will say that is a struggle, as a lot of the world has not kept up with the times and it is sometimes hard to convince old school that this kind of exposure will work for them. I also participate in chamber of commerce activities and visit the surrounding towns, and speak to various groups such as Lions, Legion, church groups etc.

Loyalist PR: What made you decide to take Loyalist PR?

GF: I was in a place of transition in my life. I knew it was time to make some changes, and I needed to do it before I was too old or lost the courage to try. I came into the college the year before to get some advice on what direction to take, and felt this program would be a good fit. It was a really tough decision as I was rather intimidated by the youth and education of the other students I would be in the classroom with.

I have no regrets; it was probably one of the best decisions I have ever made.

Loyalist PR: How did Loyalist PR help prepare you for your current position?

GF: There is nothing that I learned that I have not used in this job. On a daily basis you use the writing skills, event management, networking, social and traditional media skills that you learn in this program. You work with people of all shapes, sizes and backgrounds in the classroom as you would on the job. The people you meet and the experiences you have while learning always relate to something you are doing now. I have made some fabulous friends and connections that I know I can call on at any time.

Loyalist PR: What were some of the highlights from your year in Loyalist PR?

GF: I have to say some of the debates and discussions with one of the young fellas who has turned out to be a close lifelong friend. I’m sure we spiced it up for the rest of the class too, lol!

I also really enjoyed the speakers who came and shared their experiences in the field. Fabulous stories and a good look at what was to come. And every one of them was ready to answer questions then and now, connections for life! I really appreciated the opportunity to work for a charity of our choice, and apply the KISS theory. More work doesn’t always raise more money!

Loyalist PR: Any advice for students entering the program this fall?

GF: Embrace the moment. Really get to know everyone in your program, they may not be friends for life but they have something to teach you and I guarantee you will be contacting them for something down the road.

Also, use your professional associations as much as you can and get a mentor. The advice you get and suggestions they make will ensure you success in whatever path you take. Oh, and the professors aren’t half bad either!

Loyalist PR: Ha, thanks, Gloria! Keep making us proud.

To start new school year, click button below:

If this little tune doesn't get you going, just pull on some white pants (like Mick) and loosen up a little!

It's going to be a fun ride, so hold on! We look forward to sharing it with you.

~ Your Loyalist PR Faculty Team

Grad Profile: Luc Fournier (PR 2010/11)

Today’s grad profile features Luc Fournier (2010/11) who is now employed as the Special Events Coordinator at the Trenton Memorial Hospital Foundation in Quinte West.

Prior to enrolling in the Post-Graduate Public Relations Program at Loyalist College, Luc completed a diploma as an Environmental Technician at Loyalist.

Loyalist PR: What are some of your duties in your current position?

Luc Fournier: My job title describes a significant part of what I do and to be more specific there are three major events we work on throughout the year.

One is a high-class gala, two is an annual half marathon and the third is one of the largest golf tournaments in the area.

Not only do I get to organize major events, it is my responsibility to solicit donors, cash sponsors and product sponsors. I am responsible to ensure our donor contacts are constantly updated and accurate for future use. I connect with community members and business people and offer them the opportunity to be involved with their local health care as I guide them through various fundraising opportunities of their own.

Loyalist PR: What made you decide to take Loyalist PR?

LF: I decided that I would take PR because I felt that it was a good fit for my personality. Dealing with people and unique situations every day seemed appealing to me. Specifically I chose Loyalist because of the one year program allowing me to be educated quickly, I was not interested in two more years or three more years of school.

Loyalist PR: How did Loyalist PR help prepare you for your current position?

LF: Loyalist PR prepared me for my current position by teaching me how to communicate well.

If there is one thing I have learned it is that in this world there are all different kinds of people. It is part of my job to ensure that those different people are communicated with in a manner that they understand to ensure the job gets done.

Loyalist PR: What were some of the highlights from your year in Loyalist PR?

LF: I would have to say the biggest highlight of the year for me was our trip to the Steam Whistle Brewery. I am a huge fan of beer so it was nice to see how they make it and I learned how I might apply my newly acquired education to something I love.

Also, working on projects like the United Way fundraiser with all of my classmates really felt good. Not only because we were doing something for a good cause but because our hard work and effort clearly paid off.

Loyalist PR: Any advice for students entering the program this fall?

LF: Keep an open mind and pay attention during the True Colours Workshop. Don't forget to blow off some steam. The pub opens at 12 noon and closes at 4 throughout the day.

Loyalist PR: Ha, thanks, Luc – I’m sure they’ll take you up on that advice! Good luck on your new job!

Grad Profile: Wayne Carruthers (2010/11)

Today’s grad profile features Wayne Carruthers (2010/11) who is currently employed as the Planning & Design Coordinator for Hospice Prince Edward.

Prior to enrolling in the Post-Graduate Public Relations Program at Loyalist College, Wayne graduated from the Funeral Service Education Program at Humber College. He practiced in the social services and funeral sector for a number of years before applying to Loyalist College.

Loyalist PR: Can you tell us a bit about what your day-to-day duties are as the Planning & Design Coordinator for Hospice Prince Edward?

Wayne Carruthers: I work with a small but mighty team of staff and volunteers made up of local talent who have a passion for hospice care and life. Much of my time is spent developing and implementing a case for support that will provide future resources to expand our programs.

At present I am working to develop and launch Capital Campaign. I can honestly say that at this time last year I could not have possibly taken on the task of understanding donor relations before the Loyalist PR program. The relationships that I cultivated during that time have been invaluable to my professional development.

Two other projects include Hike for Hospice May 2012, and other signature and third party events. Daily I maintain the Hospice Prince Edward web site, social media sites, and the list goes on. All exciting and worthwhile work.

Loyalist PR: What made you decide to take Loyalist PR?

WC: Returning to school at the impressionable age of 50 was not an easy decision for me, however; it was the most effective way to take my skills from past careers and rejuvenate old diplomas and work experience.

Loyalist PR was the perfect transition to “New World” of communications and provided an opportunity to reinvent myself .

Loyalist PR: How did Loyalist PR help prepare you for your current position?

WC: The skills that I obtained I use every day at Hospice Prince Edward: hosting government official, fundraising, creating new releases and press conference, graphics design, donor relations, volunteer relations and team work. It’s all relevant to my current position.

The best preparation came from my internship at the Northumberland Hills Hospital where I absorbed everything that my mentor (Rhonda Cunningham and her staff) offered and continue to offer.

Loyalist PR: What were some of the highlights from your year in Loyalist PR?

WC: Oh my… that would have to be the trip to Toronto and hunting down Peter Mansbridge,in the CBC atrium for a group photo . The opportunity of hosting the class Christmas party at my house. But the major highlight was be recognized by my peers with the PRISM Spirit Award of Merit [at the end-of-the-year program awards luncheon].

Loyalist PR: Any advice for students entering the program this fall?

WC: My advice is frank but simple. Work with the team. If you have problems working with the team, this is the place to learn the skills.

Secondly, use your research time wisely. Loyalist PR is a post-graduate program that focuses on not only polishing your communication skills but your research skills. If you put yourself into it this program, it will develop skills that will set you apart and open doors of opportunity.

The secret of success in this program is having willingness for professional development and making time to have fun.

Loyalist PR: Thanks, Wayne – and congratulations on your achievements so far since graduation!