The Niagara Community Observatory (NCO) will host Niagara Elections 2026: Changes and Challenges, a free public event featuring municipal politics expert David Siegel and a panel discussion moderated by NCO Director Kyle Rich, on Monday, Oct. 5 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Brock’s main campus.

Because the Ontario government’s recent changes to regional governance will take effect after the fall election, Rich says the NCO event is an opportune time for voters to learn what the changes could mean for them.

“By hosting a non-partisan event on campus, we hope to engage with community members who want to feel better equipped when making their choices at the ballot box,” says Rich.

Siegel, NCO founder and Professor Emeritus of Political Science, will speak to the upcoming changes in regional governance structures and the impacts of those changes on local residents.

Following that, Professor of Political Science and former NCO Director Charles Conteh and NCO Research Associate Joanne Heritz will speak to economic development and housing respectively, two key topics on the minds of voters.

Associate Professor of Recreation and Leisure Studies Martha Barnes will be joined by Sarah Ane, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Parks and Recreation Ontario, to discuss issues in the parks and recreation sector. Public health, another key voting concern, will also be up for discussion.

The event will be accompanied by the publication of a series of fact sheets that will document key trends related to these issues in Niagara. Time will be allotted for questions from the audience, and light refreshments will be served. Paid parking is available. Those interested in attending are asked to register in advance.

Microsoft is retiring the use of short message service (SMS) messages and voice (phone) calls for MFA on Feb. 1, 2027. SMS and voice MFA will no longer be available for signing into Brock applications that require MFA after this date.

Beginning Thursday, Oct. 1, users who rely on SMS or voice MFA will be prompted to download and register the Microsoft Authenticator app when signing into Microsoft tools administered by Brock.

“If you currently use text messages or phone calls to verify your identity, we encourage you to set up the Microsoft Authenticator app well before February to avoid any disruption to your access,” says Associate Vice-President of Information Technology Services Anthony Betts.

For step-by-step instructions on adding the app, please see the Adding-the-Microsoft-Authenticator-App guide.

If you are a staff or faculty member who is unable to use the app, Information Technology Services (ITS) can provide a physical token for MFA.

If assistance is needed to activate the app, a physical token is required or any issues arise, please contact the ITS Help Desk at 905-688-5550 x4357 or ithelp@brocku.ca

The funding is part of the province’s broader $1.7-billion investment in 70,000 new post-secondary seats supporting in-demand careers across Ontario.  

“Our province’s greatest strength is our highly skilled workforce — and those workers are trained at our world-class colleges and universities,” said Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security. “This investment is supporting the largest seat expansion in Ontario in more than a decade and will ensure more students have the opportunity to train for good-paying careers that protect and strengthen our communities, industries and province.” 

Minister Quinn shared news of the Brock allocation while touring the University’s main campus on Monday, Sept. 21. Joined by Brock senior leaders, the Minister engaged with students in the University’s musculoskeletal assessment and human systems anatomy labs, taking in demonstrations and learning about the innovative techniques that are preparing students to have an immediate impact in the workforce upon graduation. 

“From the shores of Lake Ontario, Brock University applauds the Ontario government’s investment in new post-secondary seats that enables us to strategically grow our STEM and applied health programs to develop world-class graduates that serve local community and regional workforce needs and fill in-demand careers,” said Lesley Rigg, the University’s President and Vice-Chancellor. “This investment comes at an important time in helping the province stand up to Protect Ontario in building a highly skilled workforce and enhancing Brock’s capacity to drive economic growth and prosperity in Niagara and beyond.” 

Brock’s funding — which will support 1,183 seats for STEM programs, 801 for health programs and 581 for education programs — is the result of a call for proposals launched after Ontario announced allocation of the first 30,000 post-secondary seats in May 2026. 

Colleges and universities worked with their local communities and industries to identify programs that will prepare students for in-demand jobs and meet regional labour market needs. Ontario evaluated proposals based on institutional capacity, local industry needs and student demand to ensure the greatest impact on workforce development and economic growth.   

In addition to seats at Brock, the region saw support from the province with 1,021 new seats announced at Niagara College, totalling $76 million in funding between the two institutions. 

“This increase in high-demand post-secondary seats at Brock University and Niagara College will help prepare students in our region for the jobs of tomorrow,” said Sam Oosterhoff, Member of Provincial Parliament for Niagara West. 

“This unprecedented investment of $76 million in our region is part of the largest seat expansion in the province in more than a decade and will help protect Ontario by training the next generation of leaders in science, technology, engineering and math — as well as health care and the skilled trades — as they enter the workforce.” 

During the University’s 2026 Homecoming celebrations, which took place Sept. 18 to 20, alumni and their guests enjoyed signature events such as the annual Steel Blade Classic hockey game, which saw the men’s hockey team defeat the Guelph Gryphons 5-1, a 25- and 50-year reunion and an Alumni Recognition Reception honouring 10 exceptional graduates. Attendees also explored a family fun zone and participated in campus tours.

“Homecoming is a celebration of the lifelong connection our alumni share with Brock and with one another. Whether returning for a milestone reunion, reconnecting with former classmates or creating new memories with family and friends, the weekend highlights the pride, relationships and sense of belonging that make the Brock community so special,” said Kim Post, Director of Alumni Relations.

The health and well-being of campus community members is Brock’s top priority, and the University has increased the frequency of cleaning and disinfecting of high-touch points on campus.

Public Health is collecting information about symptoms, timing and pattern of illness and laboratory testing results. At this time, laboratory results are not available to confirm the specific organism causing these illnesses, although a viral illness is considered the most likely cause.

Anyone experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, stomach cramps, fever or chills is advised to stay home, drink fluids and avoid contact with others.

To help prevent spread, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, avoid preparing food for others and do not return to work, school or group programs until symptom-free for at least 48 hours. Seek medical care if symptoms are severe or persistent or if there are signs of dehydration.

Individuals who are feeling unwell are encouraged to contact Niagara Region Public Health at inspect@niagararegion.ca

Please include: full name, date of birth, residence building and room number, phone number, symptoms and any other details you can provide.

If you require immediate medical attention, after-hours care is available through community walk-in clinics, online and telephone support.

Fall Convocation will take place on Friday, Oct. 16 with ceremonies at 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. As part of the University’s new ticketing process, all graduating students will need to reserve guest tickets by Thursday, Oct. 8. The tickets, which must be claimed in advance, will be distributed electronically.

Electronic tickets will be required at the entrance to the Convocation venue for all guests wishing to be seated in Convocation Hall.

Guest seating is limited due to venue capacity. Any unclaimed tickets will be released after the reservation deadline and made available as extra tickets on Friday, Oct. 9.

Additional guests who attend without a valid electronic ticket will be directed to the overflow room to watch the livestream.

Guests who are unable to attend Fall Convocation in person will be able to watch both ceremonies online at brocku.ca/livestream

Graduands are encouraged to monitor their email inboxes for more information about Fall Convocation and additional guest tickets. They can also visit brocku.ca/convocation for details or reach out to the Convocation team at convocation@brocku.ca

“Staying alert and aware of your surroundings plays an important role in preventing  incidents and injury,” says Director of Campus Safety Services Donna Moody. “Whether behind the wheel, on foot or navigating a busy parking lot, small actions can make a big difference in keeping our community safe.”

Crosswalk safety tips

Drivers must yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and allow them to fully cross before slowly entering the intersection.

People crossing the street should do so at a designated crosswalk, waiting to enter the crosswalk until approaching vehicles have come to a complete stop. Making eye contact with drivers can ensure both parties understand each other’s intentions.

Pedestrians should put away their phones while crossing streets or walking in parking lots and avoid wearing headphones or earbuds to allow full awareness of their surroundings.

Parking lot safety tips

Parking lots present another area of high interaction between drivers and pedestrians.

It’s important to be mindful of walkers, runners and cyclists when entering or exiting lots and backing out of spaces. Drivers should always be on the lookout for movement, as people may step out from between or behind parked vehicles.

Pedestrians walking in parking lots must stay aware of vehicles, as drivers may be focused on finding a parking spot. In a paid lot, purchase parking in advance or via the app before leaving the car to avoid the unnecessary distraction of looking at a phone screen while walking.

Driving safety tips

“Creating a safer campus environment starts with everyday choices and that also includes vehicle speed while on and around Brock campus,” says Director of Health, Safety and Wellness James Iseghayan.

Drivers are required to follow the posted speed limit. To provide additional visual awareness, the University has two digital feedback signs that detect and display real-time speed. These portable signs are currently located near the Rosalind Blauer Centre for Child Care (located on Isaac Brock Circle adjacent to Lot 3) and Lot B. Heightened diligence around the childcare centre helps protect Brock’s youngest community members.

Beyond travelling at the recommended speed, staying focused is equally important for safeguarding everyone who uses campus roads, parking lots and walkways.

While driving in Ontario, it is illegal to:

• Use a phone or other hand-held wireless communication device to text or dial while driving other than to call ambulance, police or fire services.
• Use a hand-held electronic entertainment device, such as a tablet or portable gaming console.
• Have a display screen visible that is not related to driving, such as a computer.
• Program a global positioning system (GPS) on a cell phone or hand-held communication device, except by voice commands.

“The Steel Blade Classic is an opportunity to bring the Brock and Niagara communities together, celebrate our student-athletes and showcase the incredible pride and support that surrounds Brock University,” said Melissa Krist, Executive Director, Brock Sports and Recreation. “We’re grateful to everyone who continues to make this event such a special tradition.”

The Steel Blade Classic dates back to 1999, when the annual one-game showdown between Brock and Niagara University was launched at Thorold Arena. The event has since grown into one of Brock’s most anticipated sporting traditions, bringing generations of Badgers together to celebrate the University and its student-athletes.

Friday night’s return to the ice saw Brock defeat Guelph 5-1.

Brock men’s hockey captain Nathan Fox, a fourth-year Sport Management student from Okotoks, Alta., hoists the Steel Blade trophy surrounded by teammates following the Badgers’ 5-1 victory at the Meridian Centre in St. Catharines on Friday, Sept. 18.

Guelph opened the scoring before Cole Cooksey, a first-year Brock Business student from Toronto, scored his first of two goals to tie the game. Alexis Cournoyer, Ryan Johnstone and captain Nathan Fox also found the back of the net to lift the Badgers to victory.

The evening was a true celebration of sport, with Brock Badgers teams from beyond the ice being honoured during the game’s intermissions.

Fans cheered as the Brock women’s volleyball team, which captured the first national medal in program history with a bronze-medal finish at the 2026 U SPORTS Women’s Volleyball Championship, were celebrated on the ice.

The Badgers’ wrestling programs were also lauded for their successes this past season, with the women’s team capturing its 24th overall and 11th consecutive Ontario University Athletics (OUA) title, and the men’s team claiming its 27th OUA championship, ninth straight, along with its 23rd U SPORTS national title.

The night also highlighted Brock’s commitment to supporting students beyond varsity sports, with the Brock University Students’ Association (BUSU) and the Graduate Students’ Association (GSA) recognizing a Food First donation of $679 made on behalf of the University.

The Steel Blade trophy itself carries a long history. Donated by the Werner family, the trophy features an 1803 non-commissioned officer’s hanger, a type of sword carried by artillery units during the War of 1812.

Following the game, Krist and Martin Werner presented the trophy to the Badgers, continuing a tradition his father, Ed Werner, helped establish more than two decades ago in support of Brock hockey.

The first-year Critical Criminology student joined hundreds of other Brock students in Jubilee Court to slip and slide her way through her first Homecoming Grape Stomp on Friday, Sept. 18.

“It seemed like a great way to build community, and I think it’s fun,” Jodway said, adding she wanted to be part of the long-standing tradition.

Nico San Pedro first participated in the beloved Brock event as an undergraduate student, returning now in his first year of the Master of Business Administration program. This time, he knew what to expect — especially when it came to the sensation of squishing grapes with his bare feet.

“Now I know what it feels like, so I’m prepared for it,” he said.

Rookie stompers Tatsuya Mandai and Mito Ishiguro came dressed for the occasion. The English as a Subsequent Language students were both dressed in white. While Mandai opted for a full body suit — including a hood — Ishiguro stood out in his tank top, shorts and latex horse head to add an extra bit of whimsy to the occasion.

President Lesley Rigg kicked off the event with welcoming remarks for the estimated 300 Badgers who were eager to start stomping the metric tonne of Concord grapes from Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery that had been harvested earlier in the day.

Manager of Student Leadership and Engagement Carolyn Hough said she was happy with both the turnout and the beautiful weather.

“Students love to show up; it’s a Brock bucket list item. It’s chaos and everyone loves it,” she said. “It’s the perfect welcome to fall and welcome to campus.”

Grape Stomp signalled the start of Brock’s Homecoming celebrations, with a full lineup of events taking place over the weekend including the Steel Blade Classic hockey game at the Meridian Centre on Friday evening.

Meeting monthly during the academic year, the group is open to any Brock staff or faculty member interested in connecting with colleagues around this work, whether EDID is central to their role, one part of a broader portfolio or an area they are interested in integrating more intentionally into their work.

The Community of Practice supports ongoing professional learning and helps build EDID capacity across the University by creating opportunities for participants to develop and exchange knowledge, learn from the expertise and experiences of others, and build connections across Faculties and departments.

In-person attendance is encouraged for the two-hour sessions to support discussion, collaboration and connection. A hybrid option will be available for accessibility. Sessions will have a plan and structure shared in advance while remaining responsive to the interests and needs of participants.

The first gathering this fall will focus on community building and collaboratively identifying priorities for the year. From there, sessions may include peer discussion and problem solving, resource sharing, guest facilitators and other opportunities for learning and collaboration based on the interests and needs of the group.

“The Community of Practice is an opportunity to bring together people from across Brock who are invested in bringing an equity and human rights lens to their work, whether or not that’s formally reflected in their job description,” says Gita Madan, Associate Director, Human Rights Response and Community Care. “We want to create a space where colleagues can learn from one another, work through challenges together, share resources and strengthen their practice through connection with others doing this work across the University.”

Staff and faculty interested in participating or learning more can contact Gita Madan, Associate Director of Human Rights Response and Community Care, at gmadan@brocku.ca