The Student Affairs and Services Organization (SASA) has awarded their annual Innovation Award to ArtsWorks, an exciting new program initiated by the Faculty of Arts and Career Development and Experiential Learning that helps arts students prepare for life after graduation.

This prestigious award will be presented to Denise Hooper, senior career development co-ordinator, and Kim Kelly, experiential learning co-ordinator, at the national Canadian Association of College and University Student Services (CACUSS) conference which is being hosted this June at Memorial University.

Ms. Hooper and Ms. Kelly received two program grants of $1,000 from SASA and CACUSS last year to implement the program.  They are thrilled with SASA’s decision to recognize ArtsWorks as one of the most innovative student services programs in the country.

“This is a national award and Kim and I are very happy and honoured to have received this recognition,” says Denise Hooper.  “We are very pleased with the results of ArtsWorks and the tremendous impact it is having on our students.”

Jennifer Browne, director of CDEL, said the award will enhance the profile of the program on campus and throughout the country.

As part of the application process, testimonials from students were requested. Among the many positive things students had to say about the program was this ringing endorsement from a winter 2008 participant: “I have to say, joining ArtsWorks was one of the best decisions I have made thus far while attending Memorial.” 

The 10- week program reinforces and recognizes the “real-world” value of the knowledge and skills arts students receive through their classroom work.  Students learn the latest job seeking and networking skills, and get expert instruction in writing resumes and interview techniques. 

ArtsWorks also partners with local community organizations to offer rewarding service-learning experiences for students.

“I am not at all surprised that ArtsWorks has won this prestigious national award,” says Dr. Tremblay, dean of Arts. Dr. Tremblay particularly praised Ms. Hooper’s role in conceptualizing the program and implementing it so effectively. 

“This has been a crucial project for the Faculty of Arts in retaining our students and helping them succeed. Bravo!”