Left-right: Farzana Zaman, Chantal O'Neal, Julie Casey

The three Developmental Services Worker graduates honoured on June 15th, 2006, were Farzana Zaman, who was awarded the President's Prize; Julie Casey who won the Distinguished Student Award; and Chantal O'Neal, winner of the Harry Rawson Award.

Twins Amy and Monica Jeffrey, with Fanshawe President Howard Rundle

Also of note - the program graduated twin sisters this year, Amy Louise Jeffrey and Monica Renee Jeffrey!

News of the award-winning students is especially welcome this year as Fanshawe had to make the difficult decision to suspend the January intake of students in this program because of low enrollment. September intake in the program will continue as in the past.

"These individuals are the backbone of many organizations that support people with developmental disabilities," said Fanshawe President Dr. Howard Rundle. "I am delighted to see three award-winners from this program and hope it will send a strong message about the program and about the exceptional individuals who are attracted to work in this challenging and rewarding field."

Graduates of the DSW program can be found working as educational assistants in schools, and working in accommodation and day programs for people with disabilities to support them as they live, work and play in the community.

Fanshawe has committed to starting a waiting list for a January intake if fall enrollment numbers are high.

Julie Casey received the Distinguished Student Award, which is presented to a student for demonstrated contribution to college life or to the community, and a real commitment to others, for example through volunteer work, and proven academic success.

Julie was 29 when she began the DSW program two years ago.

"I had dropped out of high school and I didn't want to be a bad role model for my kids. I had worked in the north as a respite foster parent to children with fetal alcohol syndrome. It was a real eye opener to the struggles and injustices."

Julie and her husband took the Personal Support Worker program at the same time and then Julie enrolled in the Developmental Support Worker program. Julie enjoyed school so much that just a few days after finishing the Fanshawe program, she began studying Social Work at The University of Western Ontario.

"It's harder in some ways, being older than other students. My son and daughter really had to adjust. I had been a stay-at-home mom, so their lives really changed. But, you know, my kids 'get it' and see how school has changed me, as a parent and as a wife. It is such a wonderful empowering opportunity. It's worked out really, really well."

Kathryn Tamasi, Coordinator of the DSW program at Fanshawe said Julie was an A+ student who worked to help others to succeed as well. "Julie is very committed to working with people with disabilities," says Tamasi. "She is just an outstanding student and an outstanding person who will make a mark in her field. She gives thoughtful consideration to everything she learns and integrates it into her philosophy, her practice and her personal life."

One of Julie's placement experiences, working with homeless teens, made her realize the impact that having a more subtle disability, such as a learning disability, can have on someone's life. She is a volunteer at Streetscape, and hopes to work with individuals with learning disabilities in the future.

In her speech to graduates, Julie sums up her Fanshawe experience this way, "It has changed my doubts into confidence, my excuses into goals and my fears into dreams."

Julie advises new students to believe in themselves and cautions them not to let fears get in the way.

Farzana Zaman received Fanshawe's President's Prize, which is presented to a graduating student for achieving significant academic standard while either making a significant contribution to campus life or, in the process, having overcome other obstacles.

Farzana's journey to Fanshawe was a long and complex one that took her through some difficult times. Born in Bangladesh, Farzana came to Canada, then moved to England for a time and back to Canada with her young son with the intention of becoming a Canadian citizen. School in Canada began as a way to fill her time, but instead became an incredible transforming process for her life.

"It was difficult at first, learning about Canadian culture, seeing new perspectives on life. Every day I was in a very emotional situation. Some days I just had to keep working hard and remind myself that if I could complete the diploma, I would have the power to make important decisions about my life."

From financial challenges, to family difficulties, Farzana overcame many hurdles along her educational journey and says it was well worth it.

"It is amazing how an institution like this can give you the knowledge, the power, the courage to build a good life. It's fantastic!"

Farzana was equally impressed by the work placements she had at Community Living London and Clarke Road Secondary School.

"Farzana has a passion for people with disabilities and for the disadvantaged," says Kathryn Tamasi, Coordinator of the DSW program. "She has, in her life, known what it is like to be judged harshly by others and is able to turn those experiences into a capacity for serving those who are also disempowered."

Farzana has been admitted into the second year of King's College Childhood and Family Relations program, a step on her way to her goal of studying social work and perhaps pursuing a second degree in education.

"There will be difficult choices in life, but if we pursue courage, knowledge and kindness, and if we work hard, the opportunities will come our way."

Chantal O'Neal has been awarded the Harry Rawson Award, established in honour of Harry Rawson, former president of Fanshawe College. The award is presented to a graduating student who has displayed academic achievement and uncommon ability in communication/interpersonal skills within the college and in community volunteer work.

When Chantal started the Developmental Services Worker program in January of 2004, she says she knew she was onto something good. Her passion for the social services field, and the job placements she experienced at Community Living London and Dale Brain Injury Services ignited a spark that allowed her to grow tremendously during her time at Fanshawe.

Chantal steered a steady course through the DSW program and used her strong academic skills to tutor other students in the program. She gained a reputation for unending patience, and developed a strong rapport with both clients and staff in placements. Today, Chantal is working part-time at Dale Brain Injury Services as a rehabilitation counsellor.

"The best part is knowing that I'm helping people. While you can't 'cure' a brain injury, it is possible for people to make gains and improve their quality of life. These people have remarkable stories, and it's very rewarding to see that I'm making a difference in their lives."

The Fanshawe College Developmental Services Worker program has been in the public eye recently due to the fact that it is increasingly difficult to attract qualified students and yet it's a field which promises to provide many jobs in the next five years. The success of these graduates is a testament to the viability of this program as a career choice.