Celebrating the First Graduating Class of U of G’s Project SEARCH
Project SEARCH’s Inaugural Class Honoured at On-Campus Ceremony
The first class of the University of Guelph’s Project SEARCH program graduated from their program at an on-campus ceremony June 25. The Project SEARCH team, comprised of the Wellington Catholic District School Board, Upper Grand District School Board, University of Guelph, and March of Dimes Canada, gathered to celebrate the seven incredible interns graduating from the very successful inaugural program.
Program Overview
Project SEARCH is a unique school-to-work training program for students with disabilities who are entering their final year of high school. The program provides participants with employment skills instruction from a dedicated team of Wellington Catholic DSB and March of Dimes educators, along with hands-on work experience geared to in-demand roles in the local labour market.
Since joining the program in September 2024, the interns have each completed more than 700 hours of work at the University of Guelph, gaining experience in various departments including the University Bookstore, Athletic Centre, Physical Resources, Computing and Communication Services, Radio Station, Hospitality Services, Childcare Learning Centre, Student Health Services, and the Ontario Veterinary College Small Animal Clinic. Two interns have secured employment at the University of Guelph as a result of the skills they developed and demonstrated over the past several months.
Graduating Class
Congratulations to the graduating students; Addison Grenier, Monika Dimkoska, Michelle Wang, Taitt Monks, Alex Aubin, Jolie Gunn, Matthew Guillen.
Project SEARCH Returns This Fall
Following an incredibly successful inaugural year for interns and program staff, Project SEARCH will return in the fall, welcoming a new class of interns in September 2025.
U of G departments interested in recruiting Project SEARCH interns can contact Janet Doner.