“NSCAD’s contribution is unique for its value as both a specialized educational resource and a driving force for arts and culture in the community at large.”

When Dan Metcalfe decided he wanted to go to the best design school in the country, his parents wanted to know where that might be. So the Ottawa lobbyist and his wife Isabel began calling contacts in the Canadian film and communications industries, and soon the answer was clear. “They all recommended NSCAD,” says Herb Metcalfe, co-founder and senior partner of the Capital Hill Group.

Both parents and son couldn’t be more pleased. “NSCAD is a great school. The class sizes are small, and there’s an openness and flexibility to encouraging creativity,” Herb adds.

“Too often in university, you find professors who say ‘Here’s the box. Here’s the required stuff you must do in the box.’ Not at NSCAD.”

“NSCAD really allows the students to develop a sense of worth and explore their creativity.”

Through his son, now a fourth-year honours Bachelor of Design student, Herb sees evidence of the NSCAD approach to learning. “The University not only provides the skills, but it gives the students self-confidence,” Herb explains. “They know they have the education to compete and set the world on fire.”

And in his work, Herb sees the broader value of the arts to a community’s social and economic vibrancy. “Certain of my clients compete worldwide for executive-level talent,” he says. “In deciding whether or not to re-locate to Canada, these candidates, be they CEOs, doctors or research scientists, look for three qualities in their new communities: safe neighbourhoods, good schools, and cultural attractions, such as art galleries and live theatre.”

“NSCAD’s contribution is unique for its value as both a specialized educational resource and a driving force for arts and culture in the community at large.”

Dan Metcalfe, who is already talking with prospective employers in the communications and design fields, has found that NSCAD’s reputation opens doors. “Everyone’s impressed with where he’s studying,” adds Herb.

“I can’t say enough good things about NSCAD and the difference it’s making to my son’s life.”

Photo by Jodi Bucholtz, BFA 2007