Applied research at Bow Valley College has come along way since the Office of Applied Research and Innovation (OARI) was established in 2008.

The College community gathered on Oct. 6 to celebrate the innovative work of more than 15 researchers at this year's applied research showcase at North Campus.

"We've moved a long way in the creation of a culture of research at Bow Valley College and in every department there's an increased awareness of how engaging in research activities informs and enhances our practice," says Anna Kae Todd, Vice-President, Learning.

More than 15 different research projects were on display at this year's Applied Research Showcase.

Over the past two years, OARI has received approximately $1.25 million in research grants related to health, teaching, and learning, with an additional $1.3 million recently contracted by TOWES and the federal government to advance its research.

"OARI has established and implemented successful research partnerships — that's been a key word over the past couple of years — and the vibrancy of these partnerships with other post-secondary institutions is gaining momentum."

The Association of Alberta Colleges and Technical Institutes (AACTI) has been a catalyst for facilitating the College's participation in research partnerships. 

Bruce Wallace, Director of Innovation Development for AACTI, who guides and manages applied research and innovation capacity building through AACTI's innovation office, was inspired by what he saw at the event. 

"This is an opportunity to bring researchers together with their colleagues. I went around the room and heard some of the researchers' stories and I see their passion. And, it's infectious," says Bruce. 

The research showcase, which featured the release of Fresh Perspectives II, also provided the opportunity to bid farewell to Dr. Rena Shimoni, Dean of OARI.

In a heartfelt presentation, Anna Kae Todd, Vice-President, Learning, thanked Rena Shimoni for her contributions to Bow Valley College as Dean of Health and Community Care and the Office of Applied Research.

Her commitment to fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation at BVC was recognized at the event, as well as her contributions as Dean of Health and Community Care from 2001 to 2008. 

"Rena has been an integral part of our College for over a decade and has contributed in so many ways to our culture of research at the College," says Anna Kae. "I have always found Rena to be a clear thinker, a big thinker, and a prolific writer with the attitude that nothing is impossible."

"I've learned from her, I've celebrated with her, and certainly enjoyed many latte-driven conversations with her."

After some travelling and spending time with her family, Rena will stay connected to the College on a contract basis and serve as a Research Associate. 

Coinciding with Rena's departure, OARI will now be called Applied Research and Evaluation and move within the College's Learning Resource Services department.

This new phase in applied research at BVC will see the portfolio move to a more decentralized model, with deans and directors promoting excellence in research in their areas.

To read more about the College's Applied Research projects, download Fresh Perspectives 2011