In Fall, Red River College surveyed students and faculty to find out how COVID-19 had impacted them.  There was a particular focus on online and blended learning, and the impact on faculty workload.  RaeAnn Thibeault (ED, Academic) and Mike Krywy (Director, Institutional Analysis and Academic Planning) Invite you to a session to share the survey results with you, answer questions and discuss important progress on feedback received.

Date: April 14, 2021
Time: 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Location: MS Teams

Click here to register

This session will be recorded and available for those who cannot attend.

If you have any questions, please contact Lisa Moore at limoore@rrc.ca

Financial Services is very pleased to announce Jose Sepidoza as our new Manager of Transactional Services effective April 1, 2021. Jose brings many years of experience with the College most recently as Manager of Ancillary Services.

Jose started with the Food Services department and School of Hospitality and Culinary Arts as an Accountant in July 2012 and added the entire Ancillary Services portfolio in late 2013.  He has worked with various teams to create efficient processes for PGI, most notably cash handling procedures, POS functionality/controls and Residence Meal plans.  Since joining the Ancillary Services Accounting Team, he has worked on many application changes and has been a key partner in all aspects of our Ancillary businesses.

Prior to joining the College, Jose held various positions within Loblaw Companies Limited; where he was Assistant Manager – GL – Liabilities and led a team of 14 team members consisting of Financial Coordinators, Financial Analysts, and a Supervisor.  In this work, Jose implemented many GL and AR process improvements and became well versed in many areas of commodity taxation. 

Jose is very much looking forward to working more closely with the College Community, when on campus Jose can be found at NDC Building C second floor.

Please submit your FALL 2021 course materials list to the Campus Store for April 19th.

You need not wait until all course materials for the program have been selected to submit your form. Please send what has been confirmed and submit the rest as they are chosen.

If you have not already done so, please email your Course Materials Adoption form to the staff member assigned to your Program and 'cc' Melanie Barton. 

• Apprentices                                       campusstore@rrc.ca
• Full Time Programs – NDC / EDC:        campusstore@rrc.ca
• Contracts                                          campusstore@rrc.ca
• Continuing Education:                        Claudette Stonehouse
• Distance Education:                           Claudette Stonehouse
• Regional Campuses:                           Claudette Stonehouse

Blank form can be found on the HUB (teamsites.rrc.ca/departments/information/Forms)

Thank You,
Melanie Barton
Acting Manager Campus Store & Print Shoppe
Ph: ext 2201

RRC is a sponsor for this year’s conference.

Reset, Refresh and Reenergize at #QNETMB2021
Yes, real life is about hard work. But we can still find ways to spark creativity, infuse balance, cultivate new ideas, and maybe even add some play into our work life. Join hundreds of other forward thinking leaders – current, emerging and aspiring – at this year’s virtual event. Connect from your browser in real time or access recordings later at your convenience.

The keynote speaker is Neil Pasricha, One of the Ten Most Inspiring TED speakers of all time
Hear Neil’s message to QNET participants.

Young Leaders* are offered a special registration rate of $50+gst available until April 12, (up to 50 registrations). Once the spaces are filled, the full conference fee applies.
This rate is not advertised on the Conference Website; you need to REGISTER HERE
* The target age range for Young Leaders is approximately 25-35 years old.

If you are interested in attending the conference but do not fall within the Young Leaders* category, full conference details can be found here.

Visit the Campus Store website. https://bookstore.rrc.ca

• Click on the GENERAL MERCHANDISE heading.
• Then RRC STAFF ECO PASSES.
• Select WINNIPEG TRANSIT MONTHLY PASS.
• Add the item to your cart and create a web order. 
• You will be asked to create an account for our e-commerce store. Your Red River College credentials are not automatically attached to our site so you have to create an account.
• In the "special instruction" field of your web order please provide us with your Eco Pass card number. We are unable to process your pass without this information.
• Enter your RRC Staff ID # when asked for Student #.
• You will receive an email when we have processed your web order. It can take up to 48 hours for your card to be synched to Transit fareboxes once the order is processed.

Over the last two weeks, Red River College has hosted two WebEx Events to discuss how the fall 2021 academic and operational plans are shaping up – including information about what we already know and what we still have yet to learn as public health supports and advises post-secondary institutions across Manitoba.

If you missed the sessions, we have recorded the presentation for all those who would like to watch and learn more.

Join Murray Toews and eTV staff for a live presentation and Q & A via WebEx. This is a refresher of the MediaSite Desktop Recorder and we will answer specific questions to improve your online video presentations.

A “one on one” session can also be scheduled on either Tuesdays or Thursdays at the time of the refresher presentation. 

• Wednesday, April 14, 2021 – 1:50 to 2:50 PM – Sign Up Here
• Wednesday, April 21 2021 – 1:50 to 2:50 PM – Sign Up Here
• Wednesday, April 28, 2021 – 1:50 to 2:50 PM – Sign Up Here
• Wednesday, May 5, 2021 – 1:50 to 2:50 PM – Sign Up Here
• Wednesday, May 12, 2021 – 1:50 to 2:50 PM – Sign Up Here
• Wednesday, May 19, 2021 – 1:50 to 2:50 PM – Sign Up Here
• Wednesday, May 26, 2021 – 1:50 to 2:50 PM – Sign Up Here

Other Learning Technologies Training sessions are also available.

These training sessions will be held online via WebEx. Register for the training using the links below and you will be emailed a link to join the webinar.

• LEARN – Groups Tool in LEARN – April 9 2021  – Noon – 1:00 PM   
• LEARN – Quiz Tool – File/video uploads with the Written Response and Arithmetic Question Type – April 13 2021 – Noon – 1:00 PM   
• LEARN – Quiz Tool – Start Date, Due Date, and End Date – April 14 2021  – Noon – 12:30 pm (30min quick session)
• LEARN – Quiz Tool – Submissions Views – April 16 2021 – Noon – 12:30 PM (30min quick session)
• LEARN – Final Adjusted Grade for HUB Grade Export – April 26 2021 – Noon – 12:30 PM (30min quick session)

Spring 2021 LEARN training sessions offered through the Centre for Learning and Program Excellence. You can sign up for this session and more on the Faculty Development registration page or view a list of upcoming CLPE faculty development sessions.

eTV/CLPE has a variety of services and resources available to support Flexible On-Line Delivery including studio and mobile video production, desktop recording, video streaming services and media creation. For more information please visit eTV.

If you missed attending our Indigenomics Workshop with Carol Anne Hilton: The Emerging Economic Strength of the Indigenous Economy, you can watch both parts on our Truth and Reconciliation Workshops page here. 

The Indigenous economy is growing. Understanding this growth, its characteristics and its need in a pandemic environment are essential in building our economic and business response to now. The success of the Indigenous economy is tied to our regions and national future. Building an environment of inclusive growth is an important collective pathway forward for academia, government and the business environment. These sessions will cover the legal and economic components of the relationship with Indigenous peoples, how this has changed over time and how we can pay increased attention to the design of Indigenous businesses today.

Join us for another live, online yoga class with Holly as your instructor.

As usual, participants will be able to see the instructor, however participants themselves will not be visible to others. So feel free to practice in your pyjamas or however you're comfortable.

Yoga With Holly
Date: Fridays 
Time: Noon – 12:30pm
Location: WebEx, register here for today's April 9 session

If this time doesn't work for you, access recorded classes here.

Questions or comments regarding any of these sessions can be directed to Breanna Sawatzky, Mental Health Coordinator.

Men’s mental health often flies under the radar. This means we need to be aware of what mental health looks like, validate that men (and everyone!) experience concerns with their mental health, and consider how to allow ourselves to experience it without shame or embarrassment.

Join Sheldon Hill (RP.), MindBeacon Psychotherapist, who will discuss some of the things that prevent men from seeking help, signs that you may be experiencing a mental health concern, and how to seek help once you’ve identified you need it. Read more here.

Date: Monday, April 12
Time: noon-1pm
Platform: WebEx – register here

This event is open to all RRC students and staff. For accessibility needs, please contact Breanna Sawatzky, Mental Health Coordinator.

Red River College is pleased to share the new Healthy Minds Healthy College (HMHC) Strategy: A Roadmap for Action 2021-2025 has been approved and endorsed by Senior Leadership and the HMHC Steering Committee – who serve as a catalyst for moving this important work forward – and will carry the College forward for the next five years.

You can read more about the strategy here.

To learn more about the Healthy Minds Healthy College Strategy: Roadmap for Action 2021-2025 and our immediate priorities, please join Breanna Sawatzky, Mental Health Coordinator for:

State of Mind: A Community Exchange on April 9, 2021 from 1:00pm – 2:00pm.

RaeAnn started her College career as a Program Manager in Health Sciences in the School of Continuing Education, followed by the role of Dean for the School of Continuing & Distance Education, then VP, Community Development leading International Education, Indigenous Education & Community Relations, the Language Training Centre and regional campuses. In 2016, RaeAnn became the Dean of the School of Health Sciences and Community Services and in 2019 as Executive Director, Academic. RaeAnn will be retiring from the College in July 2021, however, will be starting some well-earned vacation on April 26, 2021.

RaeAnn has left her mark with her positive nature, her fearless leadership, her commitment to academic quality and student success, and her ability to know what is always needed.

There will be a virtual retirement celebration on April 23rd at 2pm.  This virtual celebration will be a fun filled event that will show RaeAnn how much she has meant to the College.

Here is the link to the online card where you can send your retirement messages: https://www.kudoboard.com/boards/7M4q5PnS 

If you would like to contribute to a gift, please contact Melanie Gudmundson or Jodi Pluchinski.  You can e-transfer your contribution to retirementcontributionsRT@gmail.com.

Visit the Campus Store website. https://bookstore.rrc.ca

• Click on the GENERAL MERCHANDISE heading.
• Then RRC STAFF ECO PASSES.
• Select WINNIPEG TRANSIT MONTHLY PASS.
• Add the item to your cart and create a web order. 
• You will be asked to create an account for our e-commerce store. Your Red River College credentials are not automatically attached to our site so you have to create an account.
• In the "special instruction" field of your web order please provide us with your Eco Pass card number. We are unable to process your pass without this information.
• Enter your RRC Staff ID # when asked for Student #.
• You will receive an email when we have processed your web order. It can take up to 48 hours for your card to be synched to Transit fareboxes once the order is processed.

ALL students with the exemption of apprenticeship students who are in the last term of their program and will have all graduating requirements completed by Friday, April 30, 2021 must submit a Graduation Application to be considered for inclusion in the Spring 2021 Convocation ceremony. This form prompts the Student Records Officer to review your academic record and start the graduation process. 

The Graduation Application can be found on our website at www.rrc.ca/convocation. 

Do you know someone who has contributed to post-secondary education in Manitoba, Canada, or beyond? If so, that person may be a great candidate for an Honorary Degree/Diploma – the highest honour Red River College can bestow upon an individual.

The online nomination form has been updated and simplified, and is now ready for submissions. The deadline for nominations is Friday, May 7.

More information is available on the Alumni microsite. If you have additional questions, please contact the Alumni Relations office at 204-632-2359 or alumni@rrc.ca.

These training sessions will be held online via WebEx. Register for the training using the links below and you will be emailed a link to join the webinar.

• LEARN – Groups Tool in LEARN – April 9 2021  – Noon – 1:00 PM   
• LEARN – Quiz Tool – File/video uploads with the Written Response and Arithmetic Question Type – April 13 2021 – Noon – 1:00 PM   
• LEARN – Quiz Tool – Start Date, Due Date, and End Date – April 14 2021  – Noon – 12:30 pm (30min quick session)
• LEARN – Quiz Tool – Submissions Views – April 16 2021 – Noon – 12:30 PM (30min quick session)
• LEARN – Final Adjusted Grade for HUB Grade Export – April 26 2021 – Noon – 12:30 PM (30min quick session)

Spring 2021 LEARN training sessions offered through the Centre for Learning and Program Excellence. You can sign up for this session and more on the Faculty Development registration page or view a list of upcoming CLPE faculty development sessions.

The Centre for Learning and Program Excellence (CLPE) published an article for instructors about blended learning:

The College will move to increasing the delivery of programs through blended learning for the fall 2021 term. Blended learning involves a combination of online and on-campus (face-to-face) delivery within a program.

RRC’s Academic Program Delivery Guidelines Fall 2021 identify the requirements for increased blended learning opportunities. All programs should have at least some on-campus opportunities for students based on the guidelines for essential and enriched learning. Visit the Fall 2021 Planning FAQ page for more information.

Read the full CLPE News article for more resources and information. Also view our past articles too!  If you have a story to share and innovative work to highlight, contact Kristi in CLPE. 

SUBSCRIBE to receive future issues of our CLPE News.

If you missed attending our Indigenomics Workshop with Carol Anne Hilton: The Emerging Economic Strength of the Indigenous Economy, you can watch both parts on our Truth and Reconciliation Workshops page here. 

The Indigenous economy is growing. Understanding this growth, its characteristics and its need in a pandemic environment are essential in building our economic and business response to now. The success of the Indigenous economy is tied to our regions and national future. Building an environment of inclusive growth is an important collective pathway forward for academia, government and the business environment. These sessions will cover the legal and economic components of the relationship with Indigenous peoples, how this has changed over time and how we can pay increased attention to the design of Indigenous businesses today.

You’re invited! Ten Thousand Coffees is hosting a virtual workshop this afternoon at 12:30 p.m. CT. 

At any stage of your career, networking can be challenging, especially when we can’t meet face-to-face. Join expert networkers for this Office Hour on why it’s important to build networks that will catapult your career success and workshop the skills to become a superstar networker in a virtual environment. Instructors, share this with your students!

The event is free and open to all Red River College staff, students, and alumni. You’ll learn about the benefit of networking and how to enhance or refresh your own networking skills, and you’ll have the opportunity to workshop the skills you need to take your career to new heights. Register here.

Men’s mental health often flies under the radar. This means we need to be aware of what mental health looks like, validate that men (and everyone!) experience concerns with their mental health, and consider how to allow ourselves to experience it without shame or embarrassment.

Join Sheldon Hill (RP.), MindBeacon Psychotherapist, who will discuss some of the things that prevent men from seeking help, signs that you may be experiencing a mental health concern, and how to seek help once you’ve identified you need it. Read more here.

Date: Monday, April 12
Time: noon-1pm
Platform: WebEx – register here

This event is open to all RRC students and staff. For accessibility needs, please contact Breanna Sawatzky, Mental Health Coordinator.

Since music is an excellent wellness tool, we’re happy to invite staff and students to the last in a series of Thrive events centered around music and delivered by the Manitoba Conservatory for Music and Arts. There is no cost to attend and you do not require your own instrument. Read more here. 

Wednesday April 21, 7-8pm: Song Sharing
Tap your feet, clap your hands and break out the pots and pans as you learn how to tell an exciting story through percussion soundscapes. Register here. After registering, you will receive a Zoom link to join the event.

These workshops are co-hosted by the RRC Students' Association and Healthy Minds Healthy College. They are open to all RRC staff and students.

The RRC Students’ Association and RRC Healthy Minds Healthy College would like to invite students and staff to participate in a virtual paint night!

Join us Thursday, April 8 at 7 PM for a step-by-step painting tutorial. This event is suitable for all skill levels.

MORE INFO & REGISTER HERE

Please note: this months' paint kits can only be picked up at the Notre Dame campus.

After over 20 years and countless construction projects at Red River College, Al Podzorski is retiring!  The College has changed a lot in the last 20 years as we continually adapt to meet the needs of an ever changing workforce, and many of those changes were completed under Al’s experienced and watchful eye.

We’ve prepared a message board where you can send well-wishes to Al:  https://www.kudoboard.com/boards/dpcvVB8T

Al’s last day at RRC will be Friday, April 9th.  In the meantime he’s enjoying some vacation days.  Please join us in wishing Al a Happy Retirement!

Joe started his career at Red River College as Program Manager for Trades, Transportation, Industrial and Environment in RRC’s School of Continuing Education in 2010. Joe transitioned to Chair, Electrical Engineering Technology Department in April 2013.  Prior to joining the college, Joe worked for several decades in the telecommunications and wireless industries, performing various engineering and management roles during his career.

Joe’s leadership, tireless work, and commitment to RRC has touched a wide range of people throughout the college. Please join us to celebrate his impact and accomplishments, and to wish him the best for his retirement.

Here is the link to the online card where you can personally send your retirement messages:
https://padlet.com/bawood/f67jz8w4taz6cd3k

If you would like to contribute to a gift, you can e-transfer your contribution to joeretirementapril2021@gmail.com

His last day of work is April 30th. On that day there will be a virtual retirement celebration at 2pm.  Please RSVP: bawood@rrc.ca

RRC understands that personal well-being is critical to academic success and offers free counselling services for students. We also encourage students to subscribe to RRC’s Wellness Blog for helpful information on managing stress and anxiety and improved mental health during our current situation. If you would like information about Counselling Services and how to best support your students with personal or emotional concerns, please contact Mark Unruh, Acting Manager for Counselling Services at munruh191@rrc.ca

Red River College is committed to providing persons with documented disabilities fair and equal access to education programs, services, and facilities. If you would like information about Accessibility Services and how to best support your students with a documented disability, please contact:

• Lori Walkow, Manager, Exam Accommodations and Assistive Technology, lwalkow@rrc.ca
• Jill Patterson, Manager, Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, jpatterson@rrc.ca
• Pam Rosen, Acting Manager for Accessibility Services at prosen@rrc.ca
•  

As we continue modernizing our human resource tools to better support employees, we wanted to create a space where you can learn more about our new HRIS and stay up to date on where we’re at in the process.

Our HRIS web page provides an overview of the project, exciting features we’re rolling out within the new system, when you can expect to be able to use them, a list of FAQs, and much more.

We’ll keep you informed on the latest updates that affect you, but in the meantime, this web page provides a summary of everything you need to know.

Visit the new web page on Staff Forum

Joe started his career at Red River College as Program Manager for Trades, Transportation, Industrial and Environment in RRC’s School of Continuing Education in 2010. Joe transitioned to Chair, Electrical Engineering Technology Department in April 2013.  Prior to joining the college, Joe worked for several decades in the telecommunications and wireless industries, performing various engineering and management roles during his career.

Joe’s leadership, tireless work, and commitment to RRC has touched a wide range of people throughout the college. Please join us to celebrate his impact and accomplishments, and to wish him the best for his retirement.

Here is the link to the online card where you can personally send your retirement messages:
https://padlet.com/bawood/f67jz8w4taz6cd3k

If you would like to contribute to a gift, you can e-transfer your contribution to joeretirementapril2021@gmail.com

His last day of work is April 30th. On that day there will be a virtual retirement celebration at 2pm.  Please RSVP: bawood@rrc.ca

Jane's is open until April 29.

Reservation times available are:
Lunch – Tuesday – Friday 11:15am – 12:30pm
Dinner – Tuesday – Friday 5:30pm – 7:00pm

View the menus, calendar and reserve online now at Janes Restaurant.

In compliance with health and safety regulations, only individuals living in the same household may be seated together at the same table. Photo identification for each guest is required before entering the dining room.

The hospitality and culinary students look forward to serving you!

The West 1 lot is now open for students, staff and visitors.

Accessible stall are available as well as a pay station/PayByPhone information for casual parkers.

The D building West doors are also open, the F building doors will remain closed.

Please do not park in the designated Vaccine parking area in the South lot (check for signs).

Stay safe

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (“SAAM”), a month dedicated to raising awareness about the prevalence and impacts of sexual violence and sharing information about resources and supports for survivors.

As part of these efforts, the College has developed a Library Guide on Sexual Violence Awareness, Education, Prevention and Supports. The Guide serves as a jumping-off point for research and resources related to sexual assault and other forms of sexual violence.

Check out the Guide at: https://library.rrc.ca/sexualviolence

We hope you will find the Guide, which covers topics such as “Building a culture of consent”, “Understanding trauma and trauma-informed practice”, “Self-care, healing and recovery”, and even suggested works of fiction for book clubs, to be a helpful resource. Read the remainder of this story in the latest Library News.

Red River College is committed to a safe and inclusive working and learning environment, free from all forms of sexual violence. For more information on the College’s Sexual Violence Policy, or to discuss any concern or complaint related to sexual violence on campus, visit the College’s “No Wrong Door” microsite at www.rrc.ca/nowrongdoor or contact the College’s Resource and Resolution Advisor, Jess Spindler, at jspindler@rrc.ca. Reports of sexual violence can also be made through the REES reporting tool at REES – Home (reescampus.ca).

eTV/CLPE has a variety of services and resources available to support Flexible On-Line Delivery including studio and mobile video production, desktop recording, video streaming services and media creation. For more information please visit eTV.

These training sessions will be held online via WebEx. Register for the training using the links below and you will be emailed a link to join the webinar.

• LEARN – Gradebook – April 7 2021 – Noon – 1:00 PM
• LEARN – Groups Tool in LEARN – April 9 2021  – Noon – 1:00 PM   
• LEARN – Quiz Tool – File/video uploads with the Written Response and Arithmetic Question Type – April 13 2021 – Noon – 1:00 PM   
• LEARN – Quiz Tool – Start Date, Due Date, and End Date – April 14 2021  – Noon – 12:30 pm (30min quick session)
• LEARN – Quiz Tool – Submissions Views – April 16 2021 – Noon – 12:30 PM (30min quick session)
• LEARN – Final Adjusted Grade for HUB Grade Export – April 26 2021 – Noon – 12:30 PM (30min quick session)

Spring 2021 LEARN training sessions offered through the Centre for Learning and Program Excellence. You can sign up for this session and more on the Faculty Development registration page or view a list of upcoming CLPE faculty development sessions.

The Centre for Learning and Program Excellence (CLPE) published an article for instructors about blended learning:

The College will move to increasing the delivery of programs through blended learning for the fall 2021 term. Blended learning involves a combination of online and on-campus (face-to-face) delivery within a program.

RRC’s Academic Program Delivery Guidelines Fall 2021 identify the requirements for increased blended learning opportunities. All programs should have at least some on-campus opportunities for students based on the guidelines for essential and enriched learning. Visit the Fall 2021 Planning FAQ page for more information.

Read the full CLPE News article for more resources and information. Also view our past articles too!  If you have a story to share and innovative work to highlight, contact Kristi in CLPE. 

SUBSCRIBE to receive future issues of our CLPE News.

The CLPE has developed a companion webpage to the Academic Program Delivery Guidelines Fall 2021. This resource provides activity ideas instructors can use in the essential, enriched and online environments. Visit the Flexible Online Delivery Model's Deliver page for additional resources and activities. 

Need some help getting started? Request a Teaching and Learning consultation with a CLPE Educational Developer.

Want some more information, check out the Fall 2021 Planning FAQ page.

If you missed attending our Indigenomics Workshop with Carol Anne Hilton: The Emerging Economic Strength of the Indigenous Economy, you can watch both parts on our Truth and Reconciliation Workshops page here. 

The Indigenous economy is growing. Understanding this growth, its characteristics and its need in a pandemic environment are essential in building our economic and business response to now. The success of the Indigenous economy is tied to our regions and national future. Building an environment of inclusive growth is an important collective pathway forward for academia, government and the business environment. These sessions will cover the legal and economic components of the relationship with Indigenous peoples, how this has changed over time and how we can pay increased attention to the design of Indigenous businesses today.

RRC Library is offering its spring line-up of Library Lunch and Learn sessions, which highlight research-based topics and databases presented by our knowledgeable reference staff. These short webinars run from 12:15 to 12:45 pm, and allow time to interact and ask questions. Please note that registration is required (see links below).

Today at 12:15 pm! Advanced CINAHL: Database Instruction

Coming up next week:

• Monday, April 12 – Peer-Review
• Wednesday, April 14 – Business Source Complete: Database Instruction

View the full schedule: Library Lunch and Learn Calendar

If you have questions or comments, please contact event organizer, Rosemary Woodby.

Starting at 5 pm this evening!

The Long Night Against Procrastination is a virtual event designed to help students stay motivated and avoid the end-of-term crunch. A range of academic and moral supports will be available for free. 

Details and registration: library.rrc.ca/LNAP.

Long Night Against Procrastination is brought to you by Library Services – Academic Success Centre and Library, School of Indigenous Education, RRC Students' Association, Healthy Minds Healthy College, and Student Employment Services.

As the seasons change, so can your yoga practice. Holly from Kayfabe Yoga has recorded three brand new yoga sessions exclusively for RRC students and staff. Give these a try to support your overall wellness.

Each class is roughly 20 minutes long, focuses on a different goal, and is suitable for all ability levels. 

Shoulders: https://youtu.be/DPWqUI2_YUM
Hips: https://youtu.be/S-i-JdfNMmQ
Balance: https://youtu.be/HCpG1VWlJNQ

Yoga With Holly (Live!)
You're also welcome to join Holly live each Friday. For all of these sessions, participant cameras are turned off to maintain your privacy and bandwidth.

Date: Fridays 
Time: Noon – 12:30pm
Location: WebEx, register here for the April 9 session

There is a new registration link each week. Classes will continue until May 28.

Questions or comments regarding any of these sessions can be directed to Breanna Sawatzky, Mental Health Coordinator.

The RRC Students’ Association and RRC Healthy Minds Healthy College would like to invite students and staff to participate in a virtual paint night!

Join us Thursday, April 8 at 7 PM for a step-by-step painting tutorial. This event is suitable for all skill levels.

MORE INFO & REGISTER HERE

Please note: this months' paint kits can only be picked up at the Notre Dame campus.

Red River College is pleased to share the new Healthy Minds Healthy College (HMHC) Strategy: A Roadmap for Action 2021-2025 has been approved and endorsed by Senior Leadership and the HMHC Steering Committee – who serve as a catalyst for moving this important work forward – and will carry the College forward for the next five years.

You can read more about the strategy here.

To learn more about the Healthy Minds Healthy College Strategy: Roadmap for Action 2021-2025 and our immediate priorities, please join Breanna Sawatzky, Mental Health Coordinator for:

State of Mind: A Community Exchange on April 9, 2021 from 1:00pm – 2:00pm.

After over 20 years and countless construction projects at Red River College, Al Podzorski is retiring!  The College has changed a lot in the last 20 years as we continually adapt to meet the needs of an ever changing workforce, and many of those changes were completed under Al’s experienced and watchful eye.

We’ve prepared a message board where you can send well-wishes to Al:  https://www.kudoboard.com/boards/dpcvVB8T

Al’s last day at RRC will be Friday, April 9th.  In the meantime he’s enjoying some vacation days.  Please join us in wishing Al a Happy Retirement!

You’re invited! Ten Thousand Coffees is hosting a virtual workshop *tomorrow* at 12:30 p.m. CT. 

At any stage of your career, networking can be challenging, especially when we can’t meet face-to-face. Join expert networkers for this Office Hour on why it’s important to build networks that will catapult your career success and workshop the skills to become a superstar networker in a virtual environment. Instructors, share this with your students!

The event is free and open to all Red River College staff, students, and alumni. You’ll learn about the benefit of networking and how to enhance or refresh your own networking skills, and you’ll have the opportunity to workshop the skills you need to launch your career or take your career to new heights. Register here.

As instructors and staff, you have tremendous influence and can help students recognize the benefits of accessing the Academic Success Centre's tutoring supports.

If you feel a student will benefit from meeting with a tutor, please ask the student to complete the Tutoring and Coaching Request Form.

For more information about tutoring at Red River College, send us an email at tutoring@rrc.ca. 

Assessment Services is delighted to continue offering online College Readiness supports in foundational math, and study skills. The math section is called the Informal OCMT (Ontario Colleges Math Test) from the award-winning company, Vretta. The study skills component is the highly regarded LASSI (Learning Attitude Study Strategies Inventory) from H&H Publishing.

These free supports are for incoming (accepted) and current/returning students, and are available year-round.

Visit RRC’s College Readiness page to find out more about the following supports and services:

• Study Skills includes a self-assessment of current study skills, giving a clear picture of individual strengths and challenges and offers matching instructional modules to build confidence for the first day of class.
• Math Prep includes a diagnostic assessment of foundational math skills and access to interactive and animated lessons to help fill individual math skill gaps.

Please encourage all incoming and current students to visit the College Readiness website for more information.

If you would like more details or have any questions, please contact Piers Smettem at psmettem@rrc.ca .

Do you know someone who has contributed to post-secondary education in Manitoba, Canada, or beyond? If so, that person may be a great candidate for an Honorary Degree/Diploma – the highest honour Red River College can bestow upon an individual.

The online nomination form has been updated and simplified, and is now ready for submissions. The deadline for nominations is Friday, May 7.

More information is available on the Alumni microsite. If you have additional questions, please contact the Alumni Relations office at 204-632-2359 or alumni@rrc.ca.

The West 1 lot is now open for students, staff and visitors.

Accessible stall are available as well as a pay station/PayByPhone information for casual parkers.

The D building West doors are also open, the F building doors will remain closed.

Please do not park in the designated Vaccine parking area in the South lot (check for signs).

Stay safe

After over 20 years and countless construction projects at Red River College, Al Podzorski is retiring!  The College has changed a lot in the last 20 years as we continually adapt to meet the needs of an ever changing workforce, and many of those changes were completed under Al’s experienced and watchful eye.

We’ve prepared a message board where you can send well-wishes to Al:  https://www.kudoboard.com/boards/dpcvVB8T

Al’s last day at RRC will be Friday, April 9th.  In the meantime he’s enjoying some vacation days.  Please join us in wishing Al a Happy Retirement!

“Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.” Marcel Proust

Plants seeds of gratitude, cultivate appreciation and witness growth…send a Cheers for Peers online card today!  Contact Kristi, Cheers coordinator, if you have any questions about the Cheers for Peers program.

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (“SAAM”), a month dedicated to raising awareness about the prevalence and impacts of sexual violence and sharing information about resources and supports for survivors.

As part of these efforts, the College has developed a Library Guide on Sexual Violence Awareness, Education, Prevention and Supports. The Guide serves as a jumping-off point for research and resources related to sexual assault and other forms of sexual violence.

Check out the Guide at: https://library.rrc.ca/sexualviolence

We hope you will find the Guide, which covers topics such as “Building a culture of consent”, “Understanding trauma and trauma-informed practice”, “Self-care, healing and recovery”, and even suggested works of fiction for book clubs, to be a helpful resource. Read the remainder of this story in the latest Library News.

Red River College is committed to a safe and inclusive working and learning environment, free from all forms of sexual violence. For more information on the College’s Sexual Violence Policy, or to discuss any concern or complaint related to sexual violence on campus, visit the College’s “No Wrong Door” microsite at www.rrc.ca/nowrongdoor or contact the College’s Resource and Resolution Advisor, Jess Spindler, at jspindler@rrc.ca. Reports of sexual violence can also be made through the REES reporting tool at REES – Home (reescampus.ca).

We are inviting all Red River College staff and students to record a brief video on your ‘phone asking an Indigenous elder a question about anything you have ever wondered regarding Indigenous life and traditions in Canada. Your question can be as simple or as complicated as you like. It can be about history, politics, domestic life, education, health, reservations, residential school, pre-colonization, smudging, seven teachings, housing, food, natural medicines, sweat lodges, circles, the medicine wheel, the 60s Scoop, stages of life, traditional community life, ceremonial regalia, urban reserves, round dancing, economics – whatever you have wondered about, someone else has wondered about, too. Just ASK!

The deadline for submissions will be Tuesday, April 6th 2021.
Please make your recording in good lighting without any background noise. Be sure to include the following information:

• Your name (just first name, if you prefer)
• Your program at RRC
• Your question

Here are some examples:

1. “Hi, my name is Pamela, and I am in Social Innovation and Community Development at Red River College. I came across a round dance downtown; would it have been okay for me to join in, even though I am not Indigenous? Thanks!”
2. “Good morning. I am Jason, and I am studying in engineering tech. I appreciate getting a chance to ask a question because I am Indigenous but I don’t know the traditions. I would like to know what smudging is all about. Thank you.”
3. “I am an international student from Pakistan. My name is Jamal. Are some of the Indigenous traditions in Canada similar to the traditions that we have in Pakistan?”
4. “My name is Susan and I am a nursing student. What are the big mistakes I should avoid when taking care of Indigenous patients?”

Please send your recording to Heather Steppler hsteppler@rrc.ca In your email, please state that you are willing to have us use your recording in our video. 
*We will provide a small honorarium to students whose videos we use.

Over the last two weeks, Red River College has hosted two WebEx Events to discuss how the fall 2021 academic and operational plans are shaping up – including information about what we already know and what we still have yet to learn as public health supports and advises post-secondary institutions across Manitoba.

If you missed the sessions, we have recorded the presentation for all those who would like to watch and learn more.

The College has extended its voluntary withdrawal date for students up to and including the last day of the term, prior to the administering of a final exam (where applicable). As term end dates can vary, students are responsible for making sure they know the exact dates for their specific program.

RRC’s current refund policy will apply. (https://www.rrc.ca/future-students/dates/). 
The College is committed to helping those students who need to withdraw at this time complete their studies at a later date.

If your program normally permits only a limited number of VWs, that limited is lifted for the present term. Any VWs made during this term will not count towards the total number of VWs allowed by your program.

International students only: Voluntary Withdrawals may have a significant impact on Study Permit conditions and Post-Graduation Work Permit eligibility. International students should always consult the Centre for International Education and Global Partnerships at iesupport@rrc.ca and their respective Program Coordinator about their situation.

Applied Computer Education is offering their Information Technology Camps virtually on May 11-13, 2021.

Girls Exploring IT for Junior High girls Tuesday, May 11
Day in the Life of an IT Student for High School boys and girls on Wednesday, May 12 or Thursday, May 13

Read more about our Virtual Technology Camps, or to Register, Here

The Centre for Learning and Program Excellence (CLPE) published an article for instructors about blended learning:

The College will move to increasing the delivery of programs through blended learning for the fall 2021 term. Blended learning involves a combination of online and on-campus (face-to-face) delivery within a program.

RRC’s Academic Program Delivery Guidelines Fall 2021 identify the requirements for increased blended learning opportunities. All programs should have at least some on-campus opportunities for students based on the guidelines for essential and enriched learning. Visit the Fall 2021 Planning FAQ page for more information.

Read the full CLPE News article for more resources and information. Also view our past articles too!  If you have a story to share and innovative work to highlight, contact Kristi in CLPE. 

SUBSCRIBE to receive future issues of our CLPE News.

These training sessions will be held online via WebEx. Register for the training using the links below and you will be emailed a link to join the webinar.

• LEARN – Gradebook – April 7 2021 – Noon – 1:00 PM
• LEARN – Groups Tool in LEARN – April 9 2021  – Noon – 1:00 PM   
• LEARN – Quiz Tool – File/video uploads with the Written Response and Arithmetic Question Type – April 13 2021 – Noon – 1:00 PM   
• LEARN – Quiz Tool – Start Date, Due Date, and End Date – April 14 2021  – Noon – 12:30 pm (30min quick session)
• LEARN – Quiz Tool – Submissions Views – April 16 2021 – Noon – 12:30 PM (30min quick session)
• LEARN – Final Adjusted Grade for HUB Grade Export – April 26 2021 – Noon – 12:30 PM (30min quick session)

Spring 2021 LEARN training sessions offered through the Centre for Learning and Program Excellence. You can sign up for this session and more on the Faculty Development registration page or view a list of upcoming CLPE faculty development sessions.

The CLPE has developed a companion webpage to the Academic Program Delivery Guidelines Fall 2021. This resource provides activity ideas instructors can use in the essential, enriched and online environments. Visit the Flexible Online Delivery Model's Deliver page for additional resources and activities. 

Need some help getting started? Request a Teaching and Learning consultation with a CLPE Educational Developer.

Want some more information, check out the Fall 2021 Planning FAQ page.

How can Canada respond to the future demand for electric and alternative fuel vehicles? How will the relevant workforce be transformed to meet this demand?

Red River College is proud to lead the first of several Canadian Colleges for a Resilient Recovery webinars to discuss topics like these.

Join us for a webinar on Thursday, April 8 at noon to learn how Canada can make the change to electric and alternative fuel vehicles. A group of expert panelists will explore the future of research, industry trends, and consumer perspectives and discuss what is needed for the new economy.

Register now at www.resilientcolleges.ca/webinars

Participate in the discussion on social media using the following hashtags: #C2R2 #ResilientRecovery #BuildBackBetter #CdnEnv #EconDev

Webinar Panelists:
Jojo Delos Reyes from Red River College, Vehicle Technology & Energy Centre
Clara Clairman from Plug N’ Drive
John DeBoer of Siemens Future Grid and eMobility Solutions
Jim Stanford from The Centre for Future Work

Tomorrow evening at 5 pm! Please share with your students.

The Long Night Against Procrastination is a virtual event designed to help students stay motivated and avoid the end-of-term crunch. A range of academic and moral supports will be available for free. 

Details and registration: library.rrc.ca/LNAP.

Long Night Against Procrastination is brought to you by Library Services – Academic Success Centre and Library, School of Indigenous Education, RRC Students' Association, Healthy Minds Healthy College, and Student Employment Services.

The RRC Students’ Association and RRC Healthy Minds Healthy College would like to invite students and staff to participate in a virtual paint night!

Join us Thursday, April 8 at 7 PM for a step-by-step painting tutorial. This event is suitable for all skill levels.

MORE INFO & REGISTER HERE

Please note: this months' paint kits can only be picked up at the Notre Dame campus.

Red River College is pleased to share the new Healthy Minds Healthy College (HMHC) Strategy: A Roadmap for Action 2021-2025 has been approved and endorsed by Senior Leadership and the HMHC Steering Committee – who serve as a catalyst for moving this important work forward – and will carry the College forward for the next five years.

You can read more about the strategy here.

To learn more about the Healthy Minds Healthy College Strategy: Roadmap for Action 2021-2025 and our immediate priorities, please join Breanna Sawatzky, Mental Health Coordinator for:

State of Mind: A Community Exchange on April 9, 2021 from 1:00pm – 2:00pm.

Assessment Services is delighted to continue offering online College Readiness supports in foundational math, and study skills. The math section is called the Informal OCMT (Ontario Colleges Math Test) from the award-winning company, Vretta. The study skills component is the highly regarded LASSI (Learning Attitude Study Strategies Inventory) from H&H Publishing.

These free supports are for incoming (accepted) and current/returning students, and are available year-round.

Visit RRC’s College Readiness page to find out more about the following supports and services:

• Study Skills includes a self-assessment of current study skills, giving a clear picture of individual strengths and challenges and offers matching instructional modules to build confidence for the first day of class.
• Math Prep includes a diagnostic assessment of foundational math skills and access to interactive and animated lessons to help fill individual math skill gaps.

Please encourage all incoming and current students to visit the College Readiness website for more information.

If you would like more details or have any questions, please contact Piers Smettem at psmettem@rrc.ca .