On June 9th students graduating from Loyalist College’s Customs Border Services program will receive their diplomas. Rhonda Rice, Kevin Whaley, Kwami Atchrimi and Emerson Barrios will be celebrating their graduation as well as the start of new careers at the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) in Ottawa.
In November these four students participated in a pilot project with the CBSA, the organization that ensures the security and prosperity of Canada by managing the access of people and goods to and from the country. They were provided the opportunity to learn about the agency’s role and responsibilities. “Initially I felt that border services would be primarily asking individuals if they have anything to declare as they enter Canada,” said Rhonda Rice. “I now understand that there are numerous departments within the agency and I’m thrilled to have this employment opportunity. The two years I spent at Loyalist were great. I feel well prepared to begin my new job in Ottawa.”
“Loyalist’s Customs Border Services program encouraged my passion for international trade and global interests,” said Kevin Whaley. “While in Ottawa last November it was exciting to see how the things we were learning in the classroom would be applied in the workplace. It feels wonderful to be employed within my field, in an environment that encompasses all aspects of the industry.”
“This pilot was a true indication of the leading-edge outlook of the CBSA,” added Kathryn deGast-Kennedy, Coordinator, Customs Border Services. “We are proud of our Loyalist graduates and feel confident that they will continue in their pursuit of achievement and excellence throughout their careers.”
“The success of these students is a testament to their hard work and professionalism,” said John McMahon, Vice-President, Academic. “When an agency such as the CBSA hires four new graduates from a program it is a clear indication that the professors are preparing the students to enter the workforce with the specialized skills required for their sector. This promises to be a wonderful start to the careers of Rhonda, Kevin, Kwami and Emerson.”
The two-year Customs Border Services program prepares graduates to pursue careers in the fields of customs and immigration, and the international importing and exporting of goods. It focuses on legal issues, practices and procedures directly related to the import-export field. For information about Loyalist’s Centre for Justice Studies programs click here.
Media Contact: Edina Cappuccitti, College Advancement & External Relations, Loyalist College, (613) 969-1913, ext. 2392; ecappuccitti@loyalistc.on.ca or Professor Kathryn deGast-Kennedy, (613) 969-1913, ext. 2190