Family a big part of Georgian

Feb. 13, 2025

As Dorothy Gale says in the American classic The Wizard of Oz, “There’s no place like home.” For many, that place is Georgian.  

Generations of families have studied and worked here, drawn to our supportive, immersive and community-centred environment.  

We hope you have an opportunity to connect with your loved ones on Family Day – Feb. 17. Check out these inspiring stories from the past year. 

Jill and Liam 

Little did Jill Esmonde know, 27 years after she walked into Georgian looking for a new chapter and a place of belonging, her son Liam would do the same.

He’s been at Georgian since before he was born. When I was pregnant, I remember showing a recording of my ultrasound to a class about developmental psychology. I also remember apologizing to students for Liam’s scribbles being on their papers. I love knowing he’s walking around now in a place that has been so important and meaningful to me and has always been a part of his life. – Jill  

Gary and Jay 

Gary Harris used to ride his skateboard around the parking lots at the Barrie Campus and listen to bands on Friday nights from outside the cafeteria as a teenager. He had no idea he would end up working at his neighbourhood college or the impact Georgian would have on his family.  

Gary is a professor and program coordinator and his son Jay works in the Office of the Registrar. 

Not only has this been a good place to grow my career but Georgian has become part of our family. All three of my children – Ashley, Jay and Jeff – are Georgian alumni and successful in their lives and careers. Even my wife Kaarine has taken courses at the college. A lot of our personal networks, including close friends, are full of Georgian connections, too. Lots of wonderful memories here. – Gary  

DeCunha family 

Diane DeCunha and two children Chantel and Jamie DeCunha all work at the college. Jamie is also a three-time Georgian alumnus! 

They’re known by many as the Three Musketeers. 

One thing I love the most is that every person I run into has nothing but great things to say about my kids, and, as their mom, that makes me so proud. – Diane  

Hanna, Joan and Mike 

Hanna Roth followed in her mother Joan’s footsteps to take the Early Childhood Education program. Her dad Mike took the Gas Technician program at the Owen Sound Campus.  

“Georgian is a bit of a family thing.” – Hanna