Concordia Journal Home > Archives > May 21, 2009 issue >

Co-op program celebrates success 

On May 7, more than 175 people gathered in the Hall Building Faculty Lounge for the Co-op Student Showcase and Awards of Recognition. Hosted by Co-op Director Christine Webb and emceed by Vice-Provost, Teaching and Learning Ollivier Dyens, the awards were given to acknowledge the special contributions and successes of those connected to the Co-op Institute over the past year: 15 co-op specific student prizes; 13 employer prizes; three coordinator, staff and faculty prizes; and seven employers were nominated by students for the quality of their work terms.

As well, two dozen students presented posters at the event depicting their Co-op experiences. This was the sixth year the event has been held.

Photinie (Koutsavlis) Mac-Donald, pictured above with guest of honour Provost David Graham, was given a Bellwether award for her contribution in helping perpetuate the merit of the program. MacDonald graduated from the Co-op Economics program in Fall 1997 and went on to work at Human Resources Development Canada, Toronto Dominion Bank and Industry Canada. In her current role as Executive Advisor to the Assistant Deputy Minister, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, she has hired international business Co-op student Alexandra Picone. Her husband Andrew MacDonald (whom she met during her first Co-op term) is currently inquiring about hiring co-op students, as well.