Recently retired North Island College instructor Frank Niscak spent 25 years teaching and mentoring his interactive media design students while setting a standard for future instructors. That commitment and dedication was rewarded last summer with the designation of emeritus by NIC.
“It was nice to be recognized,” said Niscak. “It shows the institution acknowledges those who have committed themselves and who are now retired.”
Once a year, NIC accepts nominations for retired faculty and staff deserving of the emeritus designation.
Emeritus recipients must have provided a minimum of 10 years of service to NIC, demonstrated excellence in various fields, and made significant contributions to the college, educational communities and the success of students.
As emeritus designates, individuals play an active role engaging in college activities and the community.
“I’ve always felt and still feel it is important to be a good ambassador for the college, which is a first-class institution,” said Niscak. “Even though I am retired, whenever I speak with people or parents with teenagers, I talk about NIC and recommend they enrol in the college.”
Niscak added to the college’s first-class reputation. He was fundamental in developing the mobile application development certificate, as well as the web and mobile application development diploma, two programs that are part of interactive media design.
Niscak knew it was important to ensure his curriculum was hands-on and up-to-date with changing technology so his students would succeed in the fast-paced tech industry.
Niscak’s post-retirement activities keep him involved with NIC as a sessional instructor and advising fellow instructors when asked for help.
“I hope to always be involved, even though I have officially retired,” he said. “Some people stop being involved and they stagnate.”
Read more about all NIC’s emeritus designates at https://www.nic.bc.ca/life-at-nic/awards-and-recognition/.