An exciting educational opportunity is now available to anyone interested in the tourism and recreation management program offered by the College of the Rockies. Starting in September 2012, the program is being offered entirely online, although this will not replace the face-to-face program normally offered at the Cranbrook campus.

“The major advantage for students is that they do not have to leave their jobs in order to obtain the certificate or diploma in tourism and recreation management,” stated instructor and program co-ordinator Grant Unger in a media release. “They can study full-time or part time, which makes it more attractive to people working in the industry for promotion or advancement purposes. It may also be of interest to international students.”

Online students will be able to contact their instructors and other students through the Moodle system, a virtual learning environment used by the college. “They will be part of a cohort and able to take part in group discussions and group projects,” said Unger in the release. “Plus they will follow the same provincial curriculum as the face-to-face students.”The course is made even more accessible by virtue of the fact that the workplace component of the program can be done anywhere in the world as long as it meets program requirements. Interested individuals can apply to either the face-to-face or online program now. For more information go to: www.cotr.bc.ca/tourismrec

In another recent College of the Rockies development, two new members have been appointed to the college’s Board of Governors for terms ending December 31, 2014.

Glen D. Campbell of Sparwood is the manager of human resources for the coal business unit of Teck Resources Limited and Teck Coal Limited (based in Sparwood). Campbell holds his bachelor of commerce in industrial relations and human resource management from the University of British Columbia as well as a certified human resource professional designation.A. Kenneth Hoeppner of Golden is professor emeritus and associate vice president of research emeritus at Mount Royal University in Calgary where he has taught since 1987 starting in the English department. Hoeppner holds his bachelor of education from the University of Saskatchewan and his master of arts and doctorate from the University of Calgary.“I’m pleased to welcome Glen and Ken to the College’s Board of Governors,” said COTR President and CEO Dr. Nick Rubidge in the official media release.  “Their unique skills and experiences will serve the Board well and I look forward to working with them in the years ahead.”Not returning to the board when his term expires on July 31, having fulfilled his mandate, is Alex Jensen of Cranbrook, who has made many contributions to the board, including serving as chair.