From student to supporter: why giving back matters

For Halifax-based communications professional, Niecole Killawee (RTA ’09, PR ’11), education isn’t just a stepping stone – it’s the foundation for everything that follows.

“I believe that getting an education is one of the best things someone can do for themselves,” says Niecole.

After graduating high school, Niecole spent a few months in university before realizing it wasn’t the right fit at the time. Drawn by its career-focused approach, she enrolled in NSCC’s Radio and Television Arts (RTA) program and later returned to NSCC to obtain an Advanced Diploma in Public Relations (PR).

“With no savings for education, NSCC’s accessible programs made it possible,” she explains.

“My NSCC education is the reason I have a successful career that I enjoy. I’ve been working in communications and content production for nearly 15 years now, and I still use the skills I learned in both my Radio and Television Arts and Public Relations programs.”

Niecole’s career experience includes consulting and in-house communications roles across the research and innovation, health, higher education and charitable sectors.

Her NSCC experience also included an unforgettable International Study Abroad program in Tanzania, where she documented HIV/AIDS prevention initiatives.

“That opportunity laid the groundwork for my continued interest in finding and telling stories of impact,” she reflects.

Turning Gratitude into Action

In January 2025, Niecole became a proud monthly donor to the NSCC Foundation, supporting the Rapid Response Fund. This fund helps students facing urgent financial needs, including food insecurity.

“It’s a practical way for me to give back,” she says of her automated monthly donations. “You sign up once, and your donation comes out automatically in budget-friendly installments.”

Niecole’s motivation is simple.

“I give to NSCC so I can help today’s students get the most out of their education. Everyone deserves the chance to learn, train and set themselves up for long-term success. If you’re going hungry, you can’t give your education the energy and focus it warrants,” she says.

With 53% of NSCC students reporting low or very low food security in the 2023 Canadian Campus Wellbeing Survey, food security remains an area of growing concern.

Niecole hopes her donations will ease some of the burden students face. “Instead of worrying about rent or groceries, I want students to focus on completing that assignment, landing a work term, building their portfolio, or getting to an interview,” she says.

Knowing firsthand how transformative an NSCC education can be, and how critical support is for students facing financial challenges, Niecole encourages other alumni to give back.

“If you found career success because of your NSCC education, please consider giving what you can to open up the same opportunities for students today,” says Niecole.