**NORTHERN COLLEGE NEWS RELEASE**

Northern College is pleased to announce its nominees for the 2018 Ontario Colleges Premier’s Awards.

The annual event honours important social and economic contributions that college graduates make to Ontario and throughout the world. The awards were launched in 1992 and are administered by Colleges Ontario to recognize graduates excelling in one of seven categories – Apprenticeship, Business, Community Services, Creative Arts and Design, Health Sciences, Recent Graduate, and Technology.

Northern College has nominated three alumni that we feel are excelling in the fields of technology, health sciences and community service.

 

  

Alexander Cochrane is an IT specialist, entrepreneur and farmer whose passions include entrepreneurship, agriculture, all things technology and assisting others. As an entrepreneur, he is focused on computers and technology, innovative products and food sustainability. His extensive knowledge and expertise in information technology have progressed throughout his career. As a Computer Engineering Technician graduate, Alexander has held various roles and owned and operated multiple companies throughout the years that range from providing technical support for personal services and small businesses to managing a vertical hydroponic farm.

 

With nearly 30 years’ experience working in health services with Mattagami First Nation, Eileen Boissoneau has contributed to the health and well-being of all community members every step of her career. She is a lifelong learner who advocates for youth to pursue post-secondary education. As a Practical Nursing graduate, she is the Health Director and Emergency Management Coordinator for the Mattagami Health Centre. Throughout her career, Eileen has had a significant impact on the lives of patients and experiences of aspiring healthcare professionals in northern communities.

 

 

Linda Friday is passionate about youth development and enhancing the livelihoods of the future leaders of Attawapiskat. Although she faced challenges when she left her community to pursue her education, this did not deter Linda from achieving her dreams of becoming an Early Childhood Educator. Today she has over ten years’ experience in youth development and works as a high school counsellor who strives to be the best role model. The mother of seven hopes to inspire and motivate youth to achieve their dreams by preparing them and building their capacity to face any obstacle that stands in their way.

 

The College encourages the efforts of its students both past and present. Northern College graduates continue to accomplish amazing things, and the college is proud to support and promote their achievements. We wish each nominee luck in the upcoming awards ceremony.