CONESTOGA COLLEGE
School of Business faculty member presented with award of excellence

"Dea has dedicated countless hours to coaching her teams and generously lending her expertise to others, embodying the spirit of collaboration. And her impact doesn't end when the competition does. She remains a mentor, guiding her students long after they leave the program," said Jennifer White, professor, School of Business.

The annual two-day competition draws marketing students from across Ontario who are challenged on their ability to quickly analyze a problem and present a comprehensive marketing strategy and solution. Judges include marketing professionals and event sponsors.

Watson has been coaching students for over 24 years to hone their skills in advance of the OCMC.

"I am deeply humbled and honoured. This recognition reflects the incredible students, colleagues and college community who inspire me every day," said Watson.

"Thank you to my Conestoga colleagues for nominating me for this meaningful honour. It's a privilege to work alongside such talented and supportive individuals."

This year, Conestoga students placed in the following OCMC competitions:

• Integrated Marketing Communications: Ethan Lawson & Paisley Gales-Cousens
• Direct Marketing: Ethan Lawson & Paisley Gales-Cousens
• Retail Marketing: Dana Orr & Thea Fenn
• Sales Presentation: Lissy Dennis
• Job Interview: Ryan Gombocz
• Prospect Pitch: Andrew Spironello & Zach Phillips

Also representing the college were students Manjot Mann, Caden Willig, Giovanna Freitas, Jared Bickers, Vladimir Cordas, Sandy Mokhtar-Maleki, Coleen Matulac, Jax Grover, Jes Recidoro and Carolina Moreno Hernandez.

Conestoga's student team was selected from a tryout process that began in September, and participants then studied with their coaches weekly in preparation for the OCMC. 

"Our marketing students have worked tirelessly over the last several months preparing for this competition, and we couldn't be prouder of what they have accomplished," added White.

"A heartfelt thank you to our incredible faculty coaches, who selflessly devote their time to mentoring these competitors and building their skills. Your guidance and dedication are truly invaluable."

Jamie Wiebe, School of Business chair, said the Conestoga team looks forward to hosting the 2025 OCMC and welcoming competitors to Waterloo Region.

"Hosting is an honour that students, faculty and staff are highly anticipating and builds on the college's history of commitment and performance at the event, having previously captured gold as well as several top-three finishes over several decades of competition," said Wiebe.

"I want to especially acknowledge and thank Jennifer White who is exceptional at organizing this event each year for the Conestoga team and will be taking on the massive role of leading us into 2025 when we host," said Wiebe.

Conestoga's School of Business provides numerous options, opportunities and pathways for students to complete, specialize or expand their business education, either full-time or part-time. The college's career-ready graduates have the skills and knowledge to address real-world needs and make a difference in today's rapidly changing business world.