New Algonquin Dean introduced at council

Doctor Keltie Jones (right) is the new Dean at Algonquin College in the Ottawa Valley. She was officially introduced to the Town of Petawawa during council on Dec. 2. There, she and Jamie Bramburger, Manager of Student and Community Affairs, shared some of the exciting new about things occurring at the college as well as providing more details on student demographics. Though half of the first-year students are from out of town, Petawawa residents make up a large percentage of the school’s student body. Of the Renfrew County students, they account for nearly 20 per cent of the population. Many are military partners or family members, military members or veterans who wish to hone their skills or return to the workforce on a different career path. Algonquin College works closely with the Canadian Armed Forces and Garrison Petawawa, including monthly visits to transitioning soldiers’ briefings, and attending information sessions with the Petawawa Military Family Resource Centre (PMFRC). Professors have noted that individuals with a military background make for very disciplined students who enrich the classes they attend. Bramburger noted there are several grants, incentives and educational opportunities for Regular and Reserve military members and veterans, as well as their spouses.