In celebration of National Co-op Week — March 16 – 20, 2015 — the Mount is pleased to recognize the critical role of co-op employer partners to ensuring an enriching education for Mount students. For more than 35 years, the Mount’s co-operative education program has provided more than 7,000 students with 12 months of practical work experience upon graduation. Employers are partners in this program and important players in student career development.

Collaborating with employers provides experiential learning opportunities that link students’ education to the real world. Students can explore various career paths and employers have the advantage of integrating fresh, vibrant student perspectives into their work place.

“Employers maintain a really supportive atmosphere,” says Scott Daniels, Manager of the Mount’s Co-op Team. “They allow students to explore their interests, strengths, and potential career paths while being exposed to the realities of the work place.”

Each year, students nominate employers for the Mount Co-op Employer of the Year Award which acknowledges those who have displayed commitment, excellence and longstanding support of the Mount’s Co-op program. An employer from each of the Public Relations, Business Administration and Tourism and Hospitality Management programs have been just announced as recipients for 2014.
Congratulations to:

Business Administration — Lori MacMillan, Manager, Accounting and Assurance, BDO Canada LLP, Bedford, NS.

Public Relations — John Verlinden, Corporate Director, Communications, Northwood Homecare Limited, Dartmouth, NS.

Tourism & Hospitality Management — Debra Simms, Senior Rooms Operations Manager, Halifax Marriott Harbourfront, Halifax, NS. ,

We couldn’t do it without all of our co-op employer partners. A big thanks to you all this National Co-op Week!

About Co-op Education at the Mount
The mission of Mount Saint Vincent University’s co-operative education program is to be a leader in fostering and advancing experiential learning. The program aims to develop skilled professionals who will strengthen the workforce in new and innovative ways and provide students with the support and experiences for career exploration.