New partnerships, new initiatives, and even a new outdoor green space are some of the many opportunities to come that will enhance the student experience in 2023. Our diverse community of learners is a source of pride at NorQuest and connecting students with personal and professional growth opportunities is a top priority.
“We have several exciting initiatives ahead of us this year,” says Jonathan Robb, Vice President of Learner Experience. “The Indigenous Student Centre has a new partnership with the Edmonton Food Bank that will provide a weekly box of non-perishable items for students experiencing food insecurity. The RBC mentorship program is also re-launching in the fall. Coming out of the pandemic, we’re also looking at our library’s physical space and places for quiet study to support students that toggle between online and in-person classes.”
Jonathan explains that the learner experience is at the forefront of everything we do and ensuring a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment is a must. “The new Safe Disclosure Office is planned to open later this year, and that’s a resource that will serve all NorQuest communities,” says Jonathan.
Supporting the learner experience also means ensuring that students have a strong grasp of digital and financial literacy. NorQuest aims to provide students with opportunities to learn the terminology and basic life skills needed to feel empowered when managing their finances.
There are also several initiatives underway focused on equity and removing barriers for our diverse community of learners. “Our Advancement team is doing incredible work to connect students with opportunities at the college,” says Jackie Nelson, Acting Vice President of External Relations. “Our next fundraising campaign aims to raise $5 million that will translate directly into support for students and programs. We also have the 1000Women4STEM award that has made a tremendous impact in financially supporting women pursuing one of our three STEM diplomas.”
Jackie explains that NorQuest has also established a new partnership with Black Canadian Women in Action that will support and grow the number of black women in post-secondary programs. This partnership will launch in the coming months with a focus on programs such as STEM, business, and applied research. “There are a ton of new opportunities and initiatives coming down the pipeline and we’re very excited about the latest and greatest of what’s happening at NorQuest,” says Jackie.
NorQuest embraces its pivotal role in the community and its ability to significantly add to the vibrancy of downtown Edmonton. Whether it be the on-campus experience, programs and services, or funding opportunities, the focus of this upcoming year is without a doubt the learner experience. It is only when student growth opportunities are in place that NorQuest can also grow as an institution; that’s how we know we’re on the right track and we are living our philosophy of we are who we include.
Interested in learning more about NorQuest programs and services?
Join us on March 18 at the NorQuest Open House. Register now and learn how you can apply for free.