Hub Highlights: April 2024

April was a whirlwind of excitement at the Innovation Hub! We unleashed creativity, cheered on student entrepreneurs, and even found a moment of zen amidst the hustle. Now that the month (and semester!) are wrapping up, let's take a look back at some of the amazing things our St. Lawrence College (SLC) community accomplished! 

Bodyswaps Workshop

Kicking off this month we helped facilitate an interactive two-part workshop refining the interview skills of the Child and Youth Care class. On April 1st and 10th using Virtual Reality and the Bodyswaps program we dove in. The Bodyswaps program simulates an interview, public speaking event, and many other moments where interpersonal skills are vital. This is done to give users a low-stakes environment to practise for the real thing. This workshop was organized by the visionary Tanea Fortin, and looked to refine students' skills for interviews by providing real time custom feedback using the program’s AI. Participants donned the headsets and underwent a simulated interview catered to their career path. The verdict at the end of the workshops and at-home training? Confidence soared! Interviews became less daunting, and students noted a 16% increase in their confidence through pre and post-event surveys. To read more about the event check out our blog on it here!

Innovate and Elevate Pitch Night: Ideas in Action

On April 3rd the Hub buzzed with the electricity that only a pitch night of passionate ideas could bring. The Innovate and Elevate program was at its exciting finale — 13 weeks of dedication and drive on display for our panel of expert judges. Picture this: 16 students working tirelessly over 2 months while also balancing classes and jobs on products and initiatives that they believed in with unwavering confidence. They came with an idea and ended with a plan of action, with visions that could launch a new business and establish Innovation beyond that of SLC. When the dust settled, three champions stood tall:

Thomas Lantz with Orange Glove Waste Management: Brining sustainable waste management to the community of the Six Nations of the Grand River. 

Krystal O’Neil the creator of The Poo Pouch: Yes, you read that right. A pouch for your pet’s business. Genius? Absolutely!

Elli Parsons the founder of EGL Graphics: Bringing customizability to sporting events giving players and their network tangible memories of these important milestones.

If you're looking for a more in-depth look into the exceptional pitch night and the lead-up to it check out our blog about it here! 

Next Best: Applause and Gratitude

April 4th, the air filled with celebration as the Next Best Awards recognition night took centre stage. The St. Lawrence College School of Business beamed with pride as students who’d danced on the edge of brilliance were honoured. These weren’t just accolades; they were high-fives from faculty and staff who recognized these students' excellence not only in their studies but in the SLC community. To the tireless staff and faculty who sculpted minds and nurtured dreams, we raise our hats! Your programs paved the way for these stars to shine, and we’re proud to see these accomplishments recognized within our space.

Chill Zone: Where Zen Met Vibes

On April 19th, the Innovation Hub’s air filled with impeccable vibes. As we welcomed Enactus SLC’s Chill Zone to the Hub, this was not your average chill-out. It merged with Realms, creating a cosmic cocktail of relaxation and virtual exploration. Imagine snacks, RGB lights, and a creative atmosphere of colouring and crafts. Here, the stress from the semester melted away. We relaxed, laughed, and delved into mindfulness. The vibes? As chill as could be. Allowing all of us at the Hub and hopefully the greater SLC community to end this winter semester on a positive note as we reflected on our effort and what it accomplished while we unwinded in anticipation for our summer endeavours. 

So we thank you, our SLC family who lift us up and allow us to take part in all the great things here at the Innovation Hub. If you are a faculty member or student and you have an idea for a community event or initiative, don’t hesitate to reach out virtually or stop by the Hub. We are always keen to collaborate on these exciting initiatives and can’t wait to see what the new semester has in store!