Learning & Programs
49ͼ professor Corinna Chong nominated for prestigious Giller Prize
September 6, 2024
The title of her latest book may be Bad Land, but there’s nothing bad about 49ͼ professor Corinna Chong’s latest achievement. Her novel has been longlisted for the Giller Prize, the prestigious Canadian literary award that celebrates the best in Canadian fiction across long formats and short stories. Chong, who teaches English, Creative Writing, and Fine Arts in the College’s Writing and Publishing Diploma Program, is no stranger to national literary acclaim. In 2021, she won the CBC Short Story Prize for her piece Kids i...
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Celebrating Gordon Shuster’s Legacy and Welcoming New Leadership in International Education
August 13, 2024
After 35 years of dedicated service, Gordon Shuster is retiring from 49ͼ. Gordon’s career has been marked by significant milestones, including witnessing the institution's transformation from 49ͼ to Okanagan University College and back again, all while seeing the college grow and evolve. Over the past 25 years, Gordon has been a cornerstone of the International Education department, playing a crucial role in its expansion from 300 to over 2,000 international students. His impact extends beyond the campus, influenci...
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49ͼ School of Business Earns Prestigious 10-Year Re-accreditation
August 13, 2024
49ͼ’s School of Business (49ͼSB) has achieved a major milestone, earning a 10-year re-accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). The prestigious recognition was awarded to 49ͼ on June 29, 2024, in Miami, Florida and represents the school’s dedication to excellence in business education and its commitment to continuous improvement.Since first receiving accreditation in 2014, the 49ͼSB has worked tirelessly to enhance its curriculum and programs, ensuring students receive top-n...
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49ͼ Welcomes New Dean of Health and Social Development
July 31, 2024
49ͼ is pleased to announce that Patrena Mackie has joined 49ͼ as the new Dean of Health and Social Development. With over 17 years of experience in teaching and health care, Patrena brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to our community. She holds a Master of Education and a Bachelor of Nursing.Mackie comes to 49ͼ from Bow Valley College where she was the Associate Dean of the School of Health and Wellness, Nursing portfolio. During her career she has maintained a focus on integrating technology into curriculu...
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49ͼ introduces InspirED with new, career-focused programs
July 3, 2024
When Mike Grewe looked to further his education, he was unsure whether the pursuit of traditional post-secondary education was truly for him. With a deep passion for music, Mike was looking for a program that would support his musical interests and position him for career opportunities in the industry. What he found was the Audio Engineering and Music Production Certificate at 49ͼ (49ͼ). The Audio Engineering and Music Production program is one of dozens of 49ͼ courses and programs under the new InspirED banner, announced by...
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Construction underway for new Centre for Food, Wine and Tourism
June 24, 2024
Construction will begin this summer on the new Centre for Food, Wine and Tourism on 49ͼ's Kelowna campus, which will support B.C.͛s tourism sector and help train people for in-demand jobs"B.C. is expecting 91,000 new job openings in tourism- and hospitality-related industries over the next decade, and the majority of these jobs will require some form post-secondary education or skills training." said Lisa Beare, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. ͞This centre will equip students with the knowledge and exper...
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Diploma Battles: Is Computer Information Systems Worth It?
June 17, 2024
Does it feel like you're hosting your very own Hunger Games yet?Once you start exploring education and career paths, all your potential options seem to get into a battle royale for your future. Luckily, in this arena, you get to decide the winner.If you're great at problem-solving and you love computers, 49ͼ's Computer Information Systems (CIS) Diploma could be a strong contender for your future.In this two-year program, you explore a wide variety of engaging courses t...
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Student finds a home in Computer Sciences at 49ͼ
June 10, 2024
When 49ͼ student Kristina Cormier was searching for post-secondary schools to attend, she had some criteria she was looking for.She researched the benefits of different industries she was interested in and the programs that were available. She heard good things about 49ͼ alumni and the work they were doing. She loved the location in the Okanagan Valley and the small class sizes 49ͼ is known for.But it was 49ͼ’s Computer Science Department that really caught her eye. She was soon enrolled in the Bachelor of Computer Info...
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Set yourself apart in the tourism industry: benefits of our program
April 24, 2024
Choosing the right career path can be difficult, especially in today’s turbulent job market. With so many options, you may find it challenging to decide what you want to do and how to cultivate the necessary skills. The hospitality and tourism industry is one field that continues to grow, offering promising opportunities to dedicated individuals.If you're committed to making your mark in the tourism industry, building a solid foundation and learning unique skills are crucial for yo...
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Students to explore theme of progress at showcase event
March 11, 2024
For Nikita Worm, attending Adult Upgrading classes at 49ͼ changed her outlook and gave her life new meaning. Learning new skills through one of 49ͼ’s foundational programs, was just the tonic to help support her in her outlook on life. "The College and the courses here have helped me to be so positive about my life and my future. I feel like I’m worth something now," said Worm. Worm will be one of many students presenting their work at an upcoming student showcase, scheduled to take place at...
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49ͼ announces new chair, vice chair
December 19, 2023
49ͼ (49ͼ) is pleased to announce Dale Safinuk as the new chair of the Board of Governors, following an election at the Board’s December meeting. Safinuk, a retired financial services executive with TD Bank, was appointed by the province to the 49ͼ Board in 2019 and replaces outgoing chair Juliette Cunningham, a business owner and former Vernon city councillor, who was first elected chair in 2021. “49ͼ’s commitment to students and to this region is unparalleled,” said Safinuk. “My heart is truly aligned to the College and its mi...
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New Dean to join 49ͼ’s School of Business
December 8, 2023
49ͼ is pleased to announce that Joe Baker, a passionate academic leader and entrepreneur within Canada’s education, tourism and hospitality sectors, has been named the new Dean of the 49ͼ School of Business. Baker spent nearly 15 years in academic leadership roles at George Brown College and Centennial College. Over the last several years he has led his own consulting business, providing leadership and support to several workforce development initiatives, with a focus on the public sector. “I was born and raised in Vancouver a...
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Horticulture pilot project providing new skills to Okanagan farm workers
November 27, 2023
Semi-retired and looking for a new challenge, South Okanagan resident Bob Atkinson turned to farming five years ago and now counts hundreds of nectarine, peach and cherry trees on his orchard at Debeck Farms. Atkinson was among close to 20 Okanagan farm workers and owners that were the first to complete the Horticulture Upskill Program at 49ͼ, a pilot program designed to provide expanded skills and tangible learning to agricultural workers employed by the tree fruit and wine grape industries. “There was a wealth of info...
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49ͼ Cultivates event fosters local food, wine and tourism businesses
November 21, 2023
New event series kick-off hosts panel of local experts, facilitated by CBC’s Sarah Penton.You’ve heard of the iconic Okanagan Champagne powder or our four-season playgrounds, but did you know the Okanagan is also leading the way in innovation in food and beverage and tourism?A new 49ͼ event series, 49ͼ Cultivates, aims to celebrate and explore Okanagan’s unique and exciting food, beverage and tourism industries with a kick-off event featuring local experts and a panel discussion hosted by CBC Radio West host, Sarah Penton.The fi...
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New ECE offerings at 49ͼ responding to workforce demands
November 8, 2023
Working as an Early Childhood Education (ECE) assistant for the past 20 years has provided Penticton’s Karen Block with a rewarding career helping children learn, grow and play. Block took the opportunity to enhance her career and learn additional skills through the new ECE Certificate program at 49ͼ. The program offers students flexibility to attend classes and upskill, while continuing to work in their field. “Because my classes are offered in a hybrid format, it has been possible for me to continue working during the...
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49ͼ connects students and employers with new Careers Hub
September 26, 2023
49ͼ is making it easier for students to connect with employers to gain practical learning experiences as an integral part of their 49ͼ education. 49ͼ has launched Careers Hub, a new online tool designed to support students on their journey into the workforce as well as employers looking for trained workers. 49ͼ’s Careers Hub is an easy, one-stop digital platform that connects students, alumni and employers to support 49ͼ students and alumni seeking the next steps in their careers. Employers can advertise employment opportunities s...
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