As Welcoming Week 2024 draws to a close, we take this opportunity to reflect on the connections made and stories shared. It was a privilege for us to visit classrooms, engage with   students, and hear about their personal experiences. The courage shown by all was deeply touching, reminding us of the strength of resilience and the power of community. 

We would like to thank the senior leaders from RRC Polytech who participated in Welcoming Week including  Fred Meier, President, Dr. Christine Watson, Vice-President, Academic, Jamie Wilson, Vice President, Indigenous Strategy, Research and Business Development, Dr. Jeanine Webber, Executive Director, Academic, and Kerri Korabelnikov, Dean, School of Education, Arts and Sciences.  

The CNI Student Support Team would like to extend a special thank you to everyone who helped make the Winnipeg and regional Community Resource Fairs a resounding success. Your dedication and commitment allowed more than 500 students to connect with community organizations and college departments and to learn about the vital services they offer. 

During our classroom visits, we extended a warm welcome to each student, symbolized by a package of hot chocolate—a gesture of warmth echoing the reception we strive to offer to all who join the community at RRC Polytech. Dr. Christine Watson, Kerri Korabelnikov and Dr. Jeanine Webber joined us in delivering these small gifts and took the time to listen to students’ powerful stories. These moments of connection were truly one of the highlights of the week, filling each day with support, understanding, and a sense of belonging. 

Students come from diverse backgrounds and have faced challenges that many of us may find difficult to imagine. Their courage and resilience remind us of the importance of creating a supportive community where everyone feels welcome and valued. As Elder Paul Guimond has wisely shared, “laughter is medicine.” His teachings bring healing and insight, deeply enriching our community during this week of welcome and reflection. 

Looking ahead, we also want to recognize the importance of Truth and Reconciliation Week, beginning September 23. This is a time for all of us to reflect, learn, and honour the Indigenous peoples of this land. As we commemorate Truth and Reconciliation, let us continue to educate ourselves and take meaningful actions that promote healing, understanding—including between Indigenous people and newcomers to Canada—and lasting change within our community 

To all the students, staff, and partners who contributed to this week’s activities, we offer our heartfelt thanks. Welcoming Week is an annual reminder of the power of inclusion and the shared values that help build a community where everyone feels they belong. Let us carry forward this spirit of welcome every day as we continue to create spaces of belonging for all.  

With gratitude, 

Stuart Schwartz Acting Associate Dean, English Language Learning and Newcomer Initiatives 

and

Anna Janik-Kelly Associate Dean, English Language Learning and Newcomer Initiatives