On January 28, Niagara College and the Town of Lincoln signed a formal memorandum of understanding (MOU) that will see the municipality and college collaborate to explore, facilitate and support social and economic development. A man area of focus will be Niagara’s agri-business sector
The MOU was signed by Mayor Sandra Easton and Niagara College President Dan Patterson at Lincoln’s Council meeting on Jan. 28. This MOU is another opportunity for Lincoln to benefit from the expertise of the high quality post-secondary institutions here in Niagara.
The partnership opens the door to collaborative ventures that leverage Niagara College’s world-leading research and educational capacities and Lincoln’s strong connections within the agri-business industry. Possible activities include joint research projects, seminars and lectures, community advancement initiatives, student placements and more, aimed at supporting economic development and creating hands-on learning for students.
Mayor Sandra Easton says “Lincoln is becoming a centre of educational innovation. These relationships are crucial to municipalities creating sound public policy grounded in research and evidence. The learning and outcomes are mutually beneficial, creating opportunities for students, faculty, staff, and Council.”
The College is well-poised to support innovation in Niagara’s agri-business sector. At its Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus, construction is nearing completion on the Marotta Family Innovation Complex, set to become a hub for research and industry collaboration, with a strong focus on agri-food.
“Niagara College is a strong contributor to Niagara’s economic prosperity,” said Patterson. “We welcome the opportunities this partnership will provide for our students and look forward to working together with Lincoln to promote and foster innovation and sustainability in Niagara’s key industries.”
“These projects will help students gain invaluable real-world learning experiences and industry connections, and make substantial contributions in their field of study,” added Al Unwin, associate dean of Niagara College’s School of Environment and Horticulture.
Lincoln has been witness to the opportunities that can evolve through these relationships. Last year, Lincoln signed an MOU with Brock University, and further developed the Brock Lincoln Living Lab. To date, the relationship has been mutually beneficial, with a focus on developing a sustainable Lincoln.
“Lincoln has a diverse economy and is a leader in the agri-business and agri-tourism sectors,” said CAO Michael Kirkopoulos. “The Town looks forward to the collaboration with Niagara College on further strengthening this important sector in Lincoln, while creating a grassroot learning experiences for students. It is partnerships like these that allow us to grow and prosper,” added Kirkopoulos.
