New Vice President, Enterprise and International Development
VCC partnership with Musqueam advances early childhood education
2014 Outstanding Alumni Awards winners
Overseas nursing internship gets $15,000 boost
VCC's hidden gems: Q&A with Justice Barclay
VCC students can pay tuition and buy textbooks online
VCC Outstanding Alumni Awards 2019 winners
DGD students brewing up new designs
Taste the difference of wine education
VCC convocation recap – Fall 2019
How to find your foundation in the makeup industry
Q&A with MDRT instructor Harpreet Gill
Sacred stories: Gladue program responds to a decades-old call for justice
VCC will train Gladue report writers to advance justice for First Nations
The business of beauty: makeup artist Gwen Perkins
VCC Culinary Arts 2018-19 year in review
5 ways to help you de-stress on campus
VCC Outstanding Alumni Awards 2018 winners
VCC students claim bronze in international Cantonese food championship
VCC students head to international dim sum competition
Ease into university with transferable courses
Computer systems technology program helps meet growing demand
VCC announces new Dean of Indigenous Initiatives
Learn how to make the most out of volunteers
Double your impact on a student’s life this #GivingTuesday
VCC receives support to increase number of trained caregivers
Media Release: The kitchen’s heating up for culinary apprentices across B.C.
VCC alumna "unmasks" inclusion through poetry
Literacy programming connects EAL students with newcomer families
High-tech simulated hospital on display at Experience VCC
Experience VCC opens career paths in hospitality and more
Triple win for VCC in Best of Vancouver 2019
VCC-trained chef heading to world-leading Gastronomika festival
VCC achieves two million dollars in energy cost avoidance
See the BC Lions at Student Rush Night Sept. 28
VCC continuing studies embrace innovative, experiential learning
VCC practical nursing program builds on previous health care skills
Media Release: BMW Group Canada scholarship
President Nunoda’s appointment renewed
Media Release: VCC Fashion partners with BC Children's Hospital
VCC fashion students dress Mel K. of Bag and a Beret
VCC celebration marks milestone in ASL, Deaf studies
How to choose the best health care program for you
Media Release: Apprentice of the Year competition open for applications
Restaurant Review: The Chef’s Table gets an 'A' for food
New mobile learning app reduces ESL waitlists
All you need to know about VCC entrance awards
VCC and Rick Hansen Foundation team up to help make Canada accessible for all
Training the addiction counsellors of tomorrow
Scheduled power outage and systems shutdown Aug. 10-11
August hours of operation at the VCC Registrar's Office
Adobe award-winner credits VCC's focus on soft skills
VCC Spring 2019 Student Awards recap
VCC at the TD Vancouver International Jazz Festival
VCC students head to Halifax for Skills Canada 2019
Good luck to VCC's Skills Canada BC 2019 competitors
VCC cooks up national gold at Skills Canada
Media Release: VCC brings Christmas in January to the DTES community
VCC fashion collections hit the runway
Media release: 2019 Flourish Gala
VCC community honoured by jewellery and gemmology industries
VCC’s Asian culinary arts program feeds demand
Q&A with VCC makeup artistry grad Kelly Bui
Are you ready for a career in volunteer management?
VCC offers a promising path to apprenticeships
Fall 2018 Student Awards recap
Experience VCC grand prize winner is Liza Marie Rivero
Entrepreneur training program to help newcomers Make It in Canada
Support VCC students this holiday season
Bakers obtain their Red Seal - and a possible raise
Campus Master Plan - Ideas Fair
VCC faculty concerts a must-see for local music lovers
The many faces of Adult Basic Education
Jacqueline’s story: climbing the luxury ladder
Chieko’s story: pathway to a caring career
Michelle's story: from the military to math class
Media Release: RBC supports Transportation Trades Sampler program at VCC
Online learning takes apprenticeships to the next level
New courses offer social media instruction at convenient times
VCC delivers skills needed to work as licensed pharmacy technician
The Chef’s Table pop-up kitchen comes to VCC Broadway
VCC Student Awards recap: celebrating success
Enter our VCC TV Facebook contest
Solid foundations: ShakeOut BC disaster simulation
VCC updates sexual violence and misconduct policy
B.C. government announces $1.5 million for disability career programs
Smoking on campus policy: updated policy notification
VCC at the TD International Jazz Festival
Media release: VCC's Tooth Trolley keeps kids smiling
Vancouver’s 2nd annual Korean Culinary Competition to take place at VCC
New program guides students’ next steps
Media Advisory: 12th Annual Fair in the Square
Indigenous reconciliation dialogue May 7–10
VCC wins big at Skills Canada BC 2018 provincials
VCC competes at Skills Canada BC 2018 provincials
MGHN receives Vancouver Fashion Week scholarship
Summer fashion tips from VCC style experts
VCC Outstanding Alumni Award winners 2017
VCC joins important anti-violence initiative
Record participation at 2017 Baking Congress
New heavy duty training facility
The facts on adult upgrading and ESL grants
Media release: Hairstylist apprenticeship a new option for VCC trades
A welcome shift in the industry
Women’s work: meet the new generation in automotive trades
VCC’s fashion program gives back to Dress for Success
Learning to fight the opioid crisis at VCC
New program teaches the skills to rate building accessibility
VCC students win big B.C. challenge
Funding announcements launch Apprenticeship Recognition Week at VCC
Carlos’ story: a smart calculation
VCC and Adler University partner to expand educational, health services
VCC English tutor publishes guide for newcomers
Korean Culinary Competition reveals new stars at VCC
Media release: VCC’s fashion program gives back to Dress for Success
Learning while working with real customers sets VCC apart
VCC Student Awards - Fall 2017 recap
Samsung and VCC set to open first Samsung Tech Institute in Western Canada
Media release: VCC’s 30th anniversary of Fiat Mode to be held at VFW
Chef's Table tickets are now sold out
Open Door Group relocates to VCC’s Downtown campus
MarketSafe certification now available at VCC
Local chef to compete in international cooking competition
Premier Horgan expands tuition waiver for former youth in care
VCC university transfers open doors for prospective engineers
Media release: Government announcement on Adult Basic Education and ESL tuition
Media release: VCC to offer Gladue report writing program
Prominent CGA Gem Conference hosted by VCC
VCC Culinary students cook to feed the homeless.
Santiago Cuyugan, the 2017 Savour Patissier of the Year
VCC takes quake drill to next level
Top five entrees to try at Quizine Kitchen
Career move: legal administrative assistant
Media advisory: Music 40th celebration
Media release: office assistants training for in-demand jobs
Team Canada lays it all on the line at Culinary Olympics
Create a new tradition with #GivingTuesday
Media Release: VCC instructor awarded Certified Master Chef status
Congratulations OHI Top 30 under 30 winner Taka Li
VCC's revamped culinary program focuses on active participation
VCC brings home medals in baking and hairdressing
Media Advisory: 11th Annual Fair in the Square
Q&A with Experience VCC tuition winner Mildred Petate
Robert’s story: sailing into hospitality success
Media Release: ESL Pathways program recognized with national award
VCC and CUPE reach tentative agreement
Media Release: VCC partners with Emily Carr University of Art + Design
Gastown boutique partners with VCC fashion design
Samsung Tech Institute Grand Opening Contest
VCC Culinary Arts team wins Healthy Chef award
VCC Outstanding Alumni Award winners 2016
Media Release: VCC wins appeal on ground breaking trademark dispute
Student T2202A tax forms are available online
New Awards of Achievement by VCC Continuing Studies
Samsung Tech Institute expands to Western Canada with VCC partnership
Paula’s story: from addiction to inspiration
News Release: 50 Years. 50 Chefs. - a gala fundraiser
Tune in for a taste of 50 Years. 50 Chefs.
Free SketchUP seminar for high schoolers
City and provincial proclamations recognize VCC’s 50 years of service
Media Release: VCC serves DTES community
Flourish is our signature, annual fundraising green-tie gala!
VCC alumna spotlighted in the Worldwide Leaders in Healthcare
Aer Café serves up freshly baked goods
Leigh Wall: finding big opportunities in heavy duty mechanics
Kathy’s story: conquering fears through music
Alex’s story: family and fusion in the restaurant business
Hamasa’s story: the courage to be Canadian
Congratulations to the first grads of VCC’s Samsung Tech Institute
Media release: Canada-B.C. partnership to train British Columbians for jobs on Lower Mainland
Maria’s story: the language of learning
Vancouver's top pastry chefs employ the art of science
Media release: VCC collaborates with BMW Group Canada
Media release: Disaster simulations at VCC
VCC’s student-designed fashion label to be featured in local boutique
Instructor feature: VCC Music’s Alan Matheson
Plate with the very best of them as a culinary arts pro
Student success story: Bronwyn Vaisey
VCC and Samsung unite to create repair program
VCC no stranger to hair education
VCC Asian culinary course deliciously unique
Hospitality management executive cohort: Q&A with Joel Rivera
VCC fashion program redesigned for industry success
Access to transportation trades
New Vice President, People and Culture
New funding announced for cutting-edge automotive, culinary equipment
College of Dental Hygienists of BC Award
News Release: VCC appeals trademark case ruling
News Release: All Aboard VCC's Tooth Trolley
Saving energy one PC at a time
Helen’s story: the voices of angels
VCC music alumnus featured in BC Musician Magazine
Cafe 335 featured in Vancouver Courier
Carson Graham student wins culinary student of the year
VCC Fashion Arts alumna nominated for CAFA
Media release / photo opportunity: 10th Annual Fair in the Square
Media release: VCC partners with School District No. 74 to meet communities need
Media Release: Fiat Mode XXVIII
News release: VCC and JIBC pledge greater collaboration
Deaf students shine in funding announcement for VCC disability programs
Enter to win Vancouver Canadians tickets
Carpe tea-um: Q&A with tea sommelier alumnus and instructor Delano Tamborini
Starting at college a smart move for B.C. students
VCC students earn 20 medals in skilled trades competition
It's go time! VCC students compete at Skills Canada
New Motive Power Centre of Excellence opens
VCC official LNG/CNG vehicle training provider
FortisBC equips VCC for new CNG/LNG training
2016 BC Provincial Skills Competition winners
Ray-Cam soapbox derby launch event at VCC
News Release: Breaking down barriers to post-secondary education
The sweet sounds of mixing it up
Five reasons the VCC music diploma program should be your first choice
Jewellery Art & Design exhibition showcases new talent
From washing dishes to Washington
VCC student team wins big at tourism industry competition
College revamping hospitality bachelor's program
VCC hosts Soaring Indigenous Youth Career Conference
B.C. restaurants waiting out worker shortage
Introducing a New Program for Sewing Beginners
New Fashion Arts millinery class featured in the Vancouver Sun
What to expect at your dental hygiene appointment
BC health regulators launch public awareness campaign
VCC chef offers taste of competitive cooking
VCC hosts Christmas in January for less fortunate
Five great reasons to train in Culinary Arts at VCC
Partnering in a party – 2015 Fair in the Square
Top five reasons to study culinary arts ESL at VCC
Hawksworth Young Chef Scholarship at VCC
VCC International Culinary at 12th Annual Passions Gala
This 18-year-old could be Vancouver’s next star chef
VCC celebrates 50 years of culinary education
Secret Location brings the world to Vancouver
VCC serves DTES community with Christmas in January
Chef tips: How to protect your grocery budget
Say goodbye to old-boys’ club in Vancouver kitchens
Chef Bingley boils it down to the basics
VCC Outstanding Alumni Award winners 2015
The man behind some of Vancouver's greatest chefs
Outstanding value at The Chef’s Table pop-up restaurant
VCC to host judging for International Chocolate Awards competition
Cupcake fun with the BCPFF Burn Fund
Talk With Your Mouth Full at Earls Yaletown
Province invests $7 million in trades training
Countless opportunities: Q&A with medical office skills grad Lisa Forrer
Arts Umbrella and VCC perform with Ballet BC
Supporting safety and the environment
VCC’s Tooth Trolley delivers free dental exams and smiles to kids
Statement re: contract with Mark Brand Inc.
New Sport and Recreation Management certificate at VCC
A Variety of support for young students at VCC
VCC recognized for health and safety
Naramata Bench Wineries Association: A Story in Every Bottle
News Release: VCC rescinds majority of layoff notices
Arrival of new senior leadership to the college
VCC student services in high demand
New Interim Chair, VCC Board of Governors
ESL programs open for registration
A Courage to Come Back award for Kyle Jacques
Deafined restaurant creates meaningful employment for Deaf and Hard of Hearing
VCC and the VCC Faculty Association Ratify Agreement
2015 BC Provincial Skills Competition winners
Five ways to make the most of your time at Career Fair
Bachelor of Performing Arts update
Introducing VCC’s 50th anniversary logo
News release: VCC newest site for Vancouver Biennale
FACT SHEET: Adult Basic Education and the Adult Upgrading Grant
VCC signs CICan’s Indigenous Education Protocol
Important tuition and fee payment update
Award winning chef joins VCC’s world class culinary school
VCC Student Awards Spring 2014
VCC Scholarships for new Canadians
VCC Student Awards Spring 2012 - Lewis Rosenbloom Scholarship
VCC Student Awards Spring 2012 - Tourism Industry Partners scholarship
VCC Student Awards 2012 - Tourism Industry Partners scholarship recipients
VCC Student Awards Spring 2012 - Chaim Zbar Scholarship
VCC Student Awards Spring 2012 - Anne Coates Memorial scholarship recipient
New agreement provides language training for newcomers
2014 BC Provincial Skills Competition winners
5 ways to make the most of your time at Career Fair 2014
VCC’s $800-million effect on B.C.’s economy
Hitting a home run in the Okanagan
Quite possibly the sweetest job ever
Food Truck Festival Comes to VCC
VCC Director co-authors Vancouver Newcomers' Guide
VCC Music student receives good "noise"
Fashion designer wins Outstanding Alumni Award 2013
Broadway Cafeteria Renaming Contest
VCC hosts Christmas in January for less fortunate
Vancouver Community College recognized as bike friendly leader
Music festival blockbuster performance features VCC talent
B.C. minister's statement on Skilled Trades and Technology Week (Nov. 4-11).
VCC music grad earns prestigious scholarship to Berklee
A story about overcoming addiction and going to college
VCC ramps up energy savings activities
VCC raises rainbow flag for Pride Week
Kids learn about dental care at fun VCC clinic
VCC teacher a role model for Deaf students
Vancouver's top jazz festival features string of VCC talent
What's different? He's 80 years old.
After three successful decades in the workforce and a retirement plan that included taking up woodworking, Manarin, who turns 81 in December, woke up one day and decided to go to college.
Now, he's an octogenarian with a student ID number.
"It was something missing from my life. I admired guys who had degrees and always encouraged people I worked with to get an education."
Manarin may have never had a piece of paper framed on the wall of any office but if stories count as schooling, you might say he's earned a PhD in life experience.
Shortly after graduating from high school in Castlegar, Manarin ended up in France with the Canadian Air Force, where he specialized in electronics, played clarinet in a travelling music and dance band, and met the love of his life.
"Those were probably the best five years of my life," he says. Still, the couple -- married now for more than 50 years -- returned to Canada where they started a family and where Manarin would never shy away from opportunity, taking a job in the Canadian Arctic during the Cold War, and even dabbling in real estate.
For the most part though, his future would lie in electronics, instrumentation and project management, primarily in the pulp and paper sector. In the 70s, 80s, and 90s, he lived and worked all over B.C., took a consultant job in Finland for several months and even helped get the PNE's commemorative Japanese gardens project blooming.
Not bad for a guy who only graduated high school. But for this particular guy, it wasn't enough.
"I wanted to do something meaningful, to accomplish something."
According to his English teacher, Rita Acton, Manarin has already accomplished more at VCC than he probably knows.
"When students faced challenges in class, they would turn to Rino for guidance and advice. He is compassionate and inspiring, the true definition of a lifelong learner."
In Rino's class, it's hard to tell who is more inspired by who; young students by a man who has seen just about everything, or a man who has seen just about everything by young people determined to succeed.
After 12 months taking part-time English and math classes at VCC, Manarin discovered that it's a place where students learn about hope.
"Coming back to school was difficult for me," said classmate Kelsey, who didn't want to use a last name because of an ongoing struggle with sexual identity. "Rino was my first pal, my closest pal. I remember he told me it didn't matter if I was a boy or a girl because I was a smart person. That meant a lot to me."
Like Kelsey, Manarin admits that going to school hasn't been a walk in the park, even for someone who has been through as much as he has, including the loss of an adult son to an avalanche.
He recalls growing up in Castlegar like it was yesterday, but memorizing math formulas has tested his commitment to adult education.
"Math and Algebra are very hard. It's a lot to remember. But I'm going to keep at it."
So far, it's all been worth it. He has earned a few college credits and plans to take anthropology and Canadian history courses at Langara as part of a broader plan to earn a general studies diploma.
He's healthy, happy and ready for the next chapter.
"When I said I was going to school, everyone I knew went out to buy suits for my graduation."
At his age, that's pressure he's learned how to handle.
A new outlook on life and learning
Tooth Fairy visits VCC's annual children's dental clinic
VCC salutes grads of first-ever Bachelor of Performing Arts degree program
VCC budget commits to improving the campus experience
New partnership aims to help Aboriginal students succeed in school
Distinct themes and styles at VCC's 2013 jewellery show
Did you know? Students can pay tuition using online banking
Urban neighbours gather for 7th annual Fair in the Square