I
n 1967, the WOIT became St. Clair College, expanding in the
following five years to include a trades wing, automotive and
greenhouse facilities and a section specifically for adult
retraining. Adding athletics facilities and the School of Health
Sciences in 1973, enrollment at the college passed 6000 students
before 1980.
William Totten retired from his position as registrar at St. Clair
College 25 years ago, after 25 years on the job. As someone who has
been connected to the college from its inception, Totten has a unique
view.
“The period from 1967 to 1974 was one of unprecedented
growth. At that time there were no traditions, rules & regulations,
policies or procedures which restricted or directed our actions,” said Totten. “We were
free to create, innovate and try new things. It was pure fun and excitement.”
St. Clair College today is known for strong programs, academic excellence and
forward-thinking. It offers a different track than those headed strictly to academic study,
with hands-on learning experiences. It also welcomes mature students, and provides
opportunities for career changes later in life.
“In the late 1960s and early 1970s the vast majority of students entered college directly
from secondary school. The average age was 19 or 20,” said Totten. “Today, and for a
number of years, many more students enter the college after spending years in the
workforce and are returning to school to upgrade qualifications or to change career paths.”
Totten was teaching math classes at Vincent Massey Secondary School when the
announcement was made in 1965 that 19 colleges of applied arts and technology were
planned across the province. Intrigued by the possibilities, Totten looked into opportunities
at the college.
“I was excited by the chance to come to the college originally because of the fresh path
it provided for students leaving high school,” said Totten. “My tenure at the college has
reinforced this belief a hundredfold. I came to be convinced that there is great potential
in every individual. This potential is not always equal but all can learn and grow. We should
never minimize the ability of others. St. Clair provides opportunities to satisfy almost all
Above: The
residence for
students,
Quittenton Hall,
opened in 2002