Coast Mountain College’s Vice President Academic (Interim) Dr. Laurie Waye has been honoured with a certificate of appreciation for outstanding support to the Canadian Armed Forces, specifically the Reserve Force, recognizing her flexible and supportive leadership.

When former Coast Mountain College Associate Dean of Instruction, Jose Areekadan needed time away from work to fulfill his obligations to the Canadian Armed Forces Reserves, his then supervisor, Dr. Waye, ensured that he was able to take the leave he required while fulfilling his work obligations. 

At the time, Areekadan, who was based out of the Prince Rupert campus, was also a part-time Regional Liaison Officer (RLO) for Joint Task Force Pacific (JTFP) before joining the team at CMTN. The RLO position required military exercise attendance, additional training, travel throughout BC and close coordination with provincial agencies such as Emergency Management BC. 

Dr. Waye supported Areekadan’s commitments and took a flexible approach to allow him to balance his commitments to the college and his role for the Canadian military.

“I’m grateful that Laurie supported me and authorized my attendance for RLO training and JTFP military exercises,” says Areekadan, adding that flexibility meant a lot to him both personally and professionally.

Areekadan is now working for College of New Caledonia as Associate Dean. And he is now an infantry Captain for the Rocky Mountain Rangers.

Congratulations on this special recognition, Dr. Waye!