Corbiere Heart & Hustle Award

In 1994, Shelly Corbiere attended a career symposium in her home province of Manitoba, having not previously known about Lakeland College. Encouraged by a representative to visit the campus, Shelly and her family traveled to Vermilion during Little Royal Weekend. Coming from a rural background, she immediately felt that Lakeland College was a natural fit for her educational journey. After completing her entrance requirements, she enrolled in the Interior Design Technology Program. Moving west was a significant transition, but the welcoming community quickly made her feel at home. Over the next two years, Shelly dedicated herself to a program she loved. She frequently put in long hours in the lab and maintained an upbeat, encouraging presence in the classroom, always seeking out the positive in every project. After graduating in 1996, she embarked on a career in the design industry that spans nearly three decades. She started at a paint store before establishing her own home-based window coverings business. In 2018, Shelly and her husband built their current retail facility.

Today, her business provides comprehensive interior solutions—ranging from flooring, custom tile, and custom cabinetry to countertops, window treatments, and vacuums. As a female entrepreneur, she takes immense pride in her company’s growth, commitment to customer service, and strong community relationships.

Shelly is not the only member of her family to graduate from the Interior Design program. Her daughter, Courtney, attended Lakeland College in 2017, making their family a proud multi-generational part of the college’s legacy.

Since graduating, Shelly has consistently supported Lakeland College by donating her time and materials to various campus projects. She regularly hosts workshops and field trips for Interior Design students and offers practicum placements to give second-year students hands-on industry experience.

“Interior design requires passion and a keen eye for detail. As designers, we help bring others’ visions to life. As an alumna of the program, I felt it was time to give back to the next generation entering this field. This award is not strictly based on academic performance, but on perseverance and character—recognizing a student who lives life to the fullest, makes the best of every situation, supports their peers, and balances hard work with enthusiasm.”