The Holidays: A Time for Tradition and Change

This issue looks to the future – with an eye on the past

Contributed by Ian Clarke

British novelist Charles Dickens is often referred to as the man who invented Christmas. Certainly, his novella, A Christmas Carol (1843), did much to establish – or at least codify – current protocols of the season.

Dickens and Christmas

Along the same lines, it has been suggested that Coca-Cola is responsible for our current notions of Santa Claus. Prior to a successful 1931 campaign depicting Mr. Claus in a red suit, big belt, et al., he was usually seen as a slightly menacing, energetic elf.

Cultural tropes guide us with invisible hands, leading to a realm of comfort and tradition. There are worse things than predictability, especially for those pumped on adrenaline, racing to complete holiday tasks.

The jolly old elf

This year, Algonquin College turned fifty. It’s been a time to consider the past, secure in the knowledge that previous generations of employees faced unique challenges – all of which helped to mold our character and reputation. Currently, a number of campus construction projects are tangible proof that we continue to address the needs of an ever-evolving job market.

We also witnessed the highest level of full-time, post-secondary and graduate certificate enrolments in our history. The number of international enrolments took a huge jump. We are developing new and dynamic programs. Put another way, we are not sitting still.

Santa faces the future – in style

Tradition and change. The past gives us a firm foundation on which to build the future. George Bernard Shaw once wrote, “Some men see things as they are and ask why. Others dream things that never were and ask why not.” The holidays represent a wonderful period to reflect on what was – and what can be.