Media Release - January 28, 2005
COMMUNITY LEADERS HONOURED WITH ALUMNI OF DISTINCTION AWARDSCelebrating the remarkable achievements of Mohawk College graduates, this year’s Mohawk College Alumni of Distinction Awards dinner recognizes seven exceptional recipients. Each year, the Mohawk College Alumni Association recognizes those graduates who have demonstrated career achievement, calling attention to the vital role Mohawk College graduates play in the social and economic life of their communities.
“The success of these alumni, both in their personal and professional lives, is a true testimonial to the value of a Mohawk College education,” affirmed Mohawk College President MaryLynn West-Moynes. “All of the Alumni of Distinction Award recipients also were nominated by Mohawk College for the Ontario Premier’s Award. Mohawk College Alumni Association was particularly pleased when it was announced that Dominic Agostino would be the recipient of a 2004 Premier’s Award for Community Service, to be presented at the end of February. We understand that this is the first time this award has been given posthumously.”
Morgan Seele, President of the Mohawk Alumni Association adds, “We are proud to honour these seven individuals as they join the 29 past recipients of our Alumni of Distinction Awards. Recognizing their accomplishments and contributions to the community as prime examples of the many made by more than 65,000 alumni of Mohawk College.”
Mohawk recipients for the Alumni of Distintion Awards are:
- Dominic Agostino, Social Service Worker, 1981 (awarded posthumously): “A zest for life and a passion for social justice” is how Prime Minister Paul Martin descried the former Liberal MPP for Hamilton-East and Mohawk College graduate. Respected for being a champion for his principles and his constituents, Mr. Agostino continues to inspire students to use their skills and education in the service of their community.
- Sandra Ireland, Nursing Program, 1990:Ms. Ireland is President of the College of Nurses and has received numerous awards recognizing her contribution to the practice of nursing.
- Anthony Michelli, Applied Music, 1990: A member of the faculty at York University and Mohawk College, Mr. Michelli is an award-winning musician who continues to be involved in music workshops, ensembles and festivals throughout the world.
- Peter Rakoczy, Electrical Engineering Technology, 1978: Mr. Rakoczy, as General Manager of Worldwide Microsoft Consulting Services Strategy, oversees the delivery, deployment and acceptance of Microsoft services and products.
- Damion Steen, Computer Software Engineering, 2003:Mr. Steen made an exception contribution to the quality of life while he attended Mohawk College and is recognized for his academic achievements and leadership within the Mohawk Students’ Association.
- Diana Zanin, Business Administration, 1980: Ms. Zanin presently holds the position of Vice President and General Manager of St. Peter’s Home Services and is an active volunteer with St. Peter’s, Martha House and the Burlington Lakeshore Rotary.
Also recognized at this year’s celebration dinner is the Alumni of Distinction Award recipient for 2003:
Lyla Miklos, Radio Broadcasting, 1997 and Broadcast Journalism, 1998: A creative force to be reckoned with, Ms. Miklos has a vast array of experience in radio, television, broadcasting, music, and theatre. She currently works for CHUM Television as the Program Coordinator for Bravo!, Space: The Imagination Station and Drive-In Classics.
