A Farewell to the Heart of Innovation
A Heartfelt Thank You to the Mentors Who Were the Soul of the Innovation Hub and Spark
Behind every thriving community of innovation and creativity are individuals who dedicate their time and energy to building something extraordinary. At St. Lawrence College (SLC), the Innovation Hub and Spark were more than just departments in the Craig Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship—they were transformative spaces where students could grow, collaborate, and find inspiration. At the core of this success were four remarkable leaders: Breanne Johnson, Steve Janssens, Gerhard Freundorfer and Mike Kusters.
Together, they didn’t just create opportunities, they created a community. The Innovation Hub and Spark became places where students wanted to work, where they felt valued, and where they could see their potential come to life. For many, it was the best job they ever had and one they will always miss. As we bid farewell to Bre, Steve, Gerhard, and Mike we reflect on the profound impact they’ve had on students, the college, and the Kingston community.
Breanne Johnson: A Champion of Student Success
Breanne Johnson’s nearly decade-long journey at SLC was defined by her unwavering commitment to student success. Starting as the Creative Director for Spark, Bre quickly became a cornerstone, mentoring students in graphic design, marketing, project management, and countless other areas. Her guidance went far beyond technical skills—she inspired students to believe in themselves and their potential, always pushing them to achieve more.
As Associate Director of the Center for Innovation, Bre’s influence only grew. She spearheaded numerous initiatives, always keeping students at the heart of her work. One of her most recent contributions was the Build Up program, a comprehensive initiative designed to help student entrepreneurs turn their ideas into thriving businesses. Through workshops, curriculum development, and partnerships with industry leaders, Bre created opportunities for students to gain real-world experience and build their ideas into reality.
Bre’s work wasn’t just about programs; it was about people. She created an environment where students felt supported, inspired, and empowered. Her empathetic and compassionate approach made her a trusted mentor and a driving force behind the Innovation Hub’s success. Bre’s legacy is one of empowerment, creativity, and an unshakable belief in the potential of others.
Steve Janssens: A Mentor Who Built Bridges
Steve Janssens was the driving force behind many of the Innovation Hub’s most impactful initiatives. As the Manager of the Innovation Hub and a long-time faculty advisor for Enactus SLC, Steve dedicated himself to creating opportunities for students to learn, grow, and make a difference. His work exemplified the power of collaboration and innovation, with projects that left a lasting mark on both the college and the Kingston community.
Steve’s leadership and patience extended to initiatives that bridged the gap between students and the local community. He played a pivotal role in fostering projects, leading in-class workshops, and mentoring many on; community problem-solving, design thinking, and finding the resources they needed to succeed. His guidance profoundly impacted countless students, offering them the motivation and inspiration needed to take meaningful steps forward on their unique journeys.
As a mentor, Steve was always available to listen to students’ ideas, offering guidance, encouragement, and constructive feedback. His ability to see the potential in every student and push them to achieve their best made him a beloved figure at SLC. Steve’s legacy is one of connection, innovation, and unwavering support for those around him.
Gerhard Freundorfer: A Creative Innovator and Community Leader
Gerhard Freundorfer brought a unique blend of creativity, expertise, and compassion to his role as Creative Director of Spark. Known for his forward-thinking approach, Gerhard inspired students to explore new ideas, embrace emerging technologies, and push the boundaries of their creativity.
Gerhard was more than a leader—he was a mentor who took the time to listen to students’ projects, offering advice, tools, and connections to help them succeed. He worked tirelessly to ensure that funding was never a barrier to success, often securing grants and building connections with community members to support clients and students alike.
This year, Gerhard’s dedication to the Kingston community was recognized when he was named one of Kingston’s 40 Under 40. This prestigious honor highlighted his tireless efforts to empower local businesses, foster innovation, and create opportunities for growth. Gerhard’s commitment to uplifting the community and his students exemplifies the values that made him an integral part of the Innovation Hub and Spark.
Gerhard’s contributions were marked by his ability to foster creativity and collaboration. His empathetic approach and dedication to empowering others made him an invaluable part of the SLC community. Gerhard’s legacy is one of a love of learning, mentorship, and a deep commitment to helping others achieve their goals.
Mike Kusters: A Co-Founder with a Passion for Storytelling
Mike Kusters’ journey with Spark began as a student at SLC. In a small room on the fourth floor, Mike helped co-found the Spark marketing Agency, bringing to life a vision of creativity and collaboration that has grown into the thriving agency we know today. From the very beginning, Mike’s passion for storytelling and creating stunning videos set the tone for Spark’s creative direction.
Mike’s dedication to videography and storytelling wasn’t just about producing content—it was about inspiring others. He brought forward the role of videographers at Spark and the Innovation Hub, giving students the chance to truly create and pursue their passions. Under Mike’s mentorship, students were encouraged to explore their creativity, hone their skills, and produce work they were proud of.
His leadership and vision helped establish Spark as a place where students could combine their technical skills with their creative passions. Mike’s ability to connect with students and foster their growth made him an integral part of Spark’s success. His contributions have left an indelible mark, not just on the department, but on the students whose lives he touched.
A Legacy That Will Be Missed
Breanne, Steve, Gerhard, and Mike didn’t just build programs, projects, tools, and workshops—they built a community. They created a space where students felt inspired, supported, and valued. For many students, working at or with the Innovation Hub and Spark wasn’t just a job, a class, or a project—it was a transformative experience. It was a place where they could dream big, take risks, and develop the skills needed to thrive in life.
Their work extended beyond the college, touching the lives of community members and fostering partnerships that enriched the Kingston region. From initiatives that educated the community about emerging technologies to impactful programs to help entrepreneurs, their contributions showcased the power of collaboration, innovation, and compassion.
But perhaps their greatest legacy lies in the countless students they mentored and inspired. Bre, Steve, Gerhard, and Mike provided a platform for students to realize their dreams, instilled confidence in their abilities, and created a supportive environment where we could thrive. Their empathetic and compassionate approach ensured that every student felt seen, heard, and valued—a testament to their unwavering belief in the power of education and community.
Moving Forward with Gratitude
As we say goodbye to Bre, Steve, Gerhard, and Mike we are reminded of the profound impact that dedicated mentors can have on a community. Their work at the Innovation Hub and Spark has left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of students and entrepreneurs.
To Breanne, Steve, Gerhard, and Mike: thank you for your passion, your vision, and your unwavering commitment to making SLC a place where students could go to get the support needed to succeed. You were the heart of the Center for Innovation, and your legacy will forever be a part of our stories.
You will be deeply missed.