Assiniboine Community College Parkland Campus celebrated the graduation of 67 students at a convocation ceremony, Friday afternoon in Credit Union Place.
Following opening remarks from Parkland Campus director Carol Stewart and greetings from ACC president Mark Frison, Assiniboine Alumni Association president Kayla Gillis of the Class of 2008, welcomed the graduates to the association.
Then Carla Prokopchuk and Praise Manoj Joseph, both graduates of the practical nursing program, gave the valedictory address.
Prokopchuk opened by congratulating all of the graduates.
“All that money spent, sleep lost, tears shed, emotional drainage and, maybe even some short tempers with family and friends . . . it was all worth it. We stand here together as a testament to the ambition and drive that each and every one of you has shown to reach this remarkable milestone,” she said. “Take a moment to bask in your achievements. You have worked tirelessly to get to this point and you should be incredibly proud of yourselves.”
While the graduates should take pride in their individual achievements, Prokopchuk reminded them that it was not a solo journey as there were many individuals who contributed to their success.
“And it’s important to acknowledge their contributions,” she added.
Joseph began his remarks by offering thanks to the nursing instructors - Gloria Campbell, Melanie Hawranik-Sobering and Cheryl Sorenson-Voight.
“Their wealth of knowledge, experience and patience has been a guiding light for all of us on this challenging journey,” he said. “From the very beginning, when we didn’t know where to insert a catheter, to successfully inserting our first IV in a real person with real blood, and experiencing that glorious flashback, they were there with us every step of the way. Their unwavering dedication and constant encouragement kept us motivated even when we felt discouraged.”
Prokopchuk then spoke about the debt of gratitude owed to “family, friends, support systems, therapists, life coaches and everyone who has stood by our side throughout this demanding educational experience.”
“You stuck with us even when we may have been a bit unbalanced and unbearable, living on limited sleep, fueled by copious amounts of caffeine, surrounded by mountains of books and papers, dealing with crashing laptops, anxiously waiting for loan money to come through,” she added. “And let’s not forget all those times we practiced our skills on you, take deep breaths as we assessed lung sounds, until you want to pass out, or nervously questioned whether we were hearing a heart murmur. You have been our pillars of strength and support and for that, we are forever grateful.” Joseph then took the time to recognize the achievements of their fellow graduates from the other programs offered at ACC Parkland Campus, stating they came together as a diverse group of individuals who have completed programs in Mature Student High School, STRIVE Succeeding in the Work World, Anishinaabe Financial Management, Human Resources, Medical Administration, Applied Counselling Skills, Comprehensive Health Care Aide and Applied Electrical Installation.
Prokopchuk pointed out each program has its own unique value and has made a significant impact on the college community, which they all worked hard to achieve.
“You will all make your mark in your chosen profession and paths, and I hope you do so with confidence and strength,” she added.
Joseph told the graduates to draw inspiration from those who came before them, quoting Florence Nightingale and Steven Jobs.
“Today, we join the ranks of those who have embraced their passions and committed themselves to making a difference,” he added.
The possibilities for their future careers are vast, Prokopchuk said. For some, graduation marks the first step towards establishing a career, while for others, it may be a continuation of a path long dreamed of.
“Whatever it may be, I have no doubt that you will all shine brilliantly in your respective fields. The countless hours we’ve dedicated to our studies have equipped us with the knowledge and skills to excel,” she said, adding the journey is not over as nursing, like many other disciplines, is always evolving, requiring lifelong learning and adapting to new challenges.
Noting the graduates have shown determination, a strong work ethic and the relentless pursuit of their goals, Joseph told the graduates they stand on the precipice of a new chapter in their lives.
“Let us carry forward the passion we hold to care for others. May our practical work reflect the compassion, skill and empathy that we have honed during our nursing education,” he said.
“Let us never forget the profound impact we can make through our actions.”
Prokopchuk encouraged all graduates to embark on their respective journeys with integrity, compassion and unwavering committment.
“By doing so, we will earn the respect of our peers and colleagues, making a positive impact in the industry of our choosing and beyond. Remember that success is not solely defined by the title we hold or the degrees we earn, but by the impact we make in the lives of others,” she said.
In closing, Joseph extended his heartfelt congratulations.
“This ia a significant achievement, one that will forever hold a special place in our lives. As we venture into the world beyond these college walls, let us cherish the bonds we’ve formed and the lessons we’ve learned,” he said.
“Remember that you have the power to make a difference, not just in your chosen profession, but in the lives of others.”
The Class of 2023 are:
Adult Learning and Upgrading Programs
Mature Student High School, Secondary Diploma - Caleb Diack, Ethan Dumas, Tyson Flesher, Kelsey Genaille, Cole Griffin, Catherine Lavallee, Andrew Little, Emily Ponask, Brayden Tomchuk-O’Neill and Keanu Woodhouse.
STRIVE Succeeding in the Work World, Document of Achievement - Logan Beasse, Holly Gugyelka and Lisa Young.
School of Business
Anishinaabe Financial Management, Advanced Diploma - Taylor Blackbird Thomas, Cayleen Mathews, Dianna Murphy, Rhonda Parenteau.
Human Resources Certificate - Brittany Anderson, Stephen Anderson, Adam Baptiste, Patricia Desjarlais, Adrienne Flatfoot, Chantel Flett, Lisa Hunter, Angela Spence, Barbara Sutherland and Gwendolen Traverse.
Medical Adminstration, Diploma - Jessalyn Baker, Rachelle Brass, Jamie Stanley and Chrissy Sutherland.
School of Health and Human Services
Applied Counselling Skills, Certificate - Amanda Beaulieu, Jolene Blackbird, Deidre Catcheway, Sarah Catcheway, Cynthia Dunn, Marla Malcolm, Myrna Malcolm, Stacy Maytwayashing.
School of Nursing
Comprehensive Health Care Aide, Certificate - Isabella Abraham, Dawson Dyck, Kylie Paterson and Candace Toderian.
Practical Nursing, Diploma - Abimbola Akinlotan, Taylor Bernat, Jasleen Brar, Grace Dadia, Sadie Erlendson, Brittany Hannah, Rachel King, Meghan Langevin, Erica Lavallee, Jenna Mahara, Kanwalnain Marahar, Beverly Palmer, Praise Manoj Joseph, Carla Prokopchuk, Cortney Quennelle, Megan Romanyshyn, Cheryl Serwa, Kali Thompson and Rhea Vandepoele.
School of Trades
Applied Electrical Installation, Certificate - Macy Buchannon, Tristan Lamirande, Leslie Sutherland and Brysen Thompson.
