Rendez-Vous 2025

The President’s Awards for Excellence acknowledge staff who have been exemplary in their efforts to achieve their own professional goals, and who have inspired others to set and achieve the highest standards. More importantly, they recognize the significant contributions of staff in shaping the educational and career goals of our students.

Faculty category: Aaron Langille

Dr. Aaron Langille, a Professor in the School of Creative Industries and Program Coordinator in the Game – Design and Simulation program is described as an outstanding educator, leader, and innovator at Cambrian College. 

With nearly 20 years of experience in education, Aaron has made a profound impact on his students, colleagues, and the college since joining Cambrian in 2021. His leadership in advancing the Game – Design and Simulation program has significantly contributed to student employment and industry readiness, enhancing Cambrian College’s reputation in the creative industries sector. 

Aaron’s dedication to teaching excellence, curriculum development, and community engagement, along with his active involvement in various educational and community initiatives, exemplifies his commitment to fostering innovation and student success. His achievements and influence make him a highly deserving candidate for the President’s Award for Excellence in the Faculty category.

Support Staff category: Kelly Niemala

Kelly Niemela, a dedicated and long-standing member of Cambrian College, has consistently demonstrated exemplary performance in her role as a Lab Technologist for the Schools of Business, Creative Industries, and Information Technology.

Her journey at Cambrian began in childhood, attending family Christmas parties, and continued as she enrolled in and completed the Computer Systems Technology program. After gaining valuable experience as an IT consultant in Toronto, Kelly returned to Cambrian, driven by a passion for education and a strong belief in the College’s mission. 

Since rejoining in 2017, she has made significant contributions to the technical infrastructure of the labs, fostering an industry-standard environment that enhances students’ learning experiences. Known for her positive attitude and willingness to help, Kelly fosters collaboration, creativity, and teamwork, making a lasting impact on faculty, students, and staff alike. 

Her dedication to the College and the community, along with her active involvement in various committees and strategic decision-making, underscores her commitment to Cambrian’s success. Her contributions to the Cambrian community make her a highly deserving candidate for the President’s Award for Excellence in the Support Staff category.

Administrator category: Brandi Braithwaite

Brandi Braithwaite, Director of Alumni and Development at Cambrian College, has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication since joining the college in 2017. 

Initially starting as a Marketing Coordinator in the International Department, she quickly transitioned to her current role in 2018. Brandi’s expertise in fundraising and partner engagement has led to significant increases in donations, including a record-breaking $3.7 million in 2024. Her commitment to Cambrian College and the Sudbury community is evident through her active involvement in various not-for-profit boards and community initiatives. 

Brandi’s leadership and contributions have been recognized with numerous accolades, including a 40 Under Forty Award in 2019. Her passion for her work and her ability to inspire others make her a deserving candidate for the President’s Award for Excellence in the Administrator category.

Outstanding service by an individual category: Heather Wiebe

Heather Wiebe is a dedicated and impactful member of Cambrian College, known for her exceptional commitment to student success and program development. 

As a leader and organizer, Heather independently spearheaded a cadaver workshop field trip to the University of Guelph, providing Massage Therapy students with invaluable hands-on learning experiences. 

Her dedication is further exemplified by her volunteer work in organizing and supervising on-campus chair massage initiatives to fundraise for this trip, fostering a strong sense of community within the program. 

Heather’s innovative teaching strategies, proactive approach to addressing learning gaps, and mentorship of colleagues highlight her unwavering commitment to excellence. Her positive attitude, professionalism, and collaborative nature make her a pleasure to work with, enriching the educational experience for students and colleagues alike. 

Heather’s contributions to the Massage Therapy Program and Cambrian College make her a deserving candidate for the President’s Award for Excellence in the Outstanding Service by an Individual category.

Outstanding service by a team category: Enrolment Centre

Adwoa Awuku-Sao – Admissions Officer
Ali Abbas – Enrolment Services Representative
Allan Hood – Records and Systems Analyst
Andree Levac – Enrolment Services Advisor
Amber Gazdic – Admissions Officer
Becky Rivard-Larochelle – Enrolment Services Representative
Breanne Pollard – Student Fees Specialist
Brianne Thibert – Admissions Officer
Bridget Berton – Enrolment Services Advisor
Carole Beauvais – Enrolment Systems and Process Specialist
Chau Dao – Admissions Officer (interim)
Crystal Kesek – Manager of Enrolment Services and Financial Aid
Dana Potter – Curriculum and Enrolment Specialist
Derek Serafini – Registrar
Gurkirat Bal – Admissions Officer (Interim)
Jeremy Potter – Financial Aid Advisor
JJ Smits – Scheduling Specialist
Kashish Veera – Enrolment Services Representative (interim)
Kelly McDonald – Manager, Systems & Projects
Kelly Wade – Enrolment Services Advisor
Kim Paris – Enrolment Services Advisor
Kyle Chapados – Admissions Officer
Lisa Edwards – Admissions Officer
Melissa Gaskin – Enrolment Systems and Process Specialist
Monica Martikkala – Manager of Student Records
Nadia Bussolaro – Admissions Officer
Olympia Mitsopulos – Record Associate
Patricia Doyle – Financial Aid and Awards Officer
Rebecca Letto – Manager of Systems and Projects (interim)
Ryan Dearing – Associate Registrar
Sarah Hambley – Enrolment Services Advisor
Sarah Kesek – Financial Aid and Awards Officer
Sheila Wu – Manager of Admissions (interim)
Tina DiNunzio – Enrolment Services Advisor
Yingying Hu – Admissions Officer

The Enrolment Centre at Cambrian College is nominated for the Outstanding Service Team award, recognizing their exceptional contributions amidst various challenges and policy changes.

The team manages admissions, registration, student records, and financial aid, and has adapted quickly to recent IRCC policy changes, handling over 1,000 additional intakes within six weeks.

They implemented new compliance requirements under tight deadlines and played a crucial role in the technology changes and workflows to enhance efficiency. Despite constant staffing transitions, their collaboration with other departments has been vital for student success. They have launched new programs and significantly impacted recruitment, retention, and overall student satisfaction. Supported by various departments, the Enrolment Centre’s adaptability and professionalism have improved the post-secondary experience for students, making them deserving of recognition.

20 Years	25 Years	30 Years
Sarah Lamoureux David Gallinger Paula Pidutti Douglas Andrews Janice Clarke Cynthia Booth Tracy McMillan Amanda McDonald Jennifer Rancourt Lesley Ann Lafond Lori Gauthier Elena Murphy Michael Hastie Brian Lobban Sherry Gervais Kimberly Donaldson Seija Korpela Angela Smith Elisa Drozdowsky Alana Holmes Jerry Letourneau Joseph Currie Michelle Zerwer	Michelle Beauchamp Andre Roberge Jennifer Timcombe	Serge Lafreniere