Richard Van Egmond, BA, BEd, MTS, OCT
OYAP Project Leader

Richard has been an educator in Christian Schools since 1987 and has long had a passion for connecting student learning to engagement and interaction in the wider community. After previous teaching and leadership roles in Sarnia and Dunnville Christian elementary schools, he moved to Hamilton District Christian High School (HDCH) in 1996.

Since 2014, he has served as the director of the Cooperative Education program at HDCH.  As the OYAP Project Leader, he is excited to support schools in a new initiative that will allow students in Edvance high schools to explore a variety of skilled trades pathways during their high school experience. His role also includes being a liaison with the government ministries that oversee high school apprenticeships as well partnering with employers and local training organizations to provide learning placements and certification for students as they pursue certification in skilled trades.

Richard is convinced that a Biblical worldview is foundational for teaching in Christian schools, which motivates him to encourage students to envision their plans for career, work, and vocation within the larger Gospel story of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration.  One of his favorite quotes is from C.S. Lewis: “I believe in Christianity as I believe that the Sun has risen; not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else. “

Richard is a graduate of Calvin College (B.A.)  the University of Toronto (B.Ed.) and McMaster Divinity College (MTS) and holds the Cooperative Education Specialist certification.

Richard and his wife Deborah have raised four children and are thankful grandparents of six grandchildren. They enjoy biking, kayaking, working on outdoor projects and exploring the natural beauty of Paris, where they currently live.