News Archives: GPRC Celebrates 2020 Virtual Convocation
Friday, June 26th, 2020
GPRC honours its 2020 graduates, including Petra Roberts, who completed her Certificate of Achievement from the Educational Assistant program.
GRANDE PRAIRIE/FAIRVIEW – Grande Prairie Regional College (GPRC) is set to honour the achievements of its students from both the Grande Prairie and Fairview campuses with a virtual Convocation celebration on Friday, June 26, 2020.
The COVID-19 pandemic unfortunately resulted in the cancellation of both GPRC Convocation ceremonies and in lieu of an in-person event, the College has created a virtual Convocation to celebrate graduates from the comfort of their homes.
Newly installed GPRC President and CEO, Dr. Robert Murray congratulations the 2020 graduates with a virtual address.
“As my first graduating class as President and CEO, I wish we could be celebrating together in-person, but no circumstance, not even a global pandemic, could take away from what you’ve worked so tirelessly to achieve,” said Dr. Murray.
This year’s Fairview Valedictorian is Animal Health Technology diploma graduate, Victoria Ivanus who is honoured to be representing her fellow classmates virtually.
“I know how hard my classmates, and everyone else on the Fairview campus, have worked to get here,” said Ivanus. “This is why it’s such an honour to have the privilege to represent them as their Valedictorian.”
Grande Prairie campus’ Valedictorian, Educational Assistant Certificate graduate, Jillian Brace praises her fellow classmates for their resiliency during this unprecedented year.
“The class of 2020 faced and overcame challenges unheard of in past years. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit like a storm, and our campuses were closed, we didn’t waver for a single second. The quality of work that came from the students graduating this year is undeniable,” said Brace.
Anticipation leading up to the virtual celebrations provided students, staff and community members the opportunity to submit congratulatory messages to graduates shared on the College’s website.
Grande Prairie Salutatorian, Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduate, Adrian Corfe added to the congratulatory messages and concluded the virtual celebration videos by encouraging everyone to embrace all they’ve accomplished and to persevere forward during these unique times.
“I ask each of you to remember your past, but not be held back by it,” said Corfe. “I hope the past inspires change and everyone takes their new knowledge and understandings to create a positive environment wherever they go. I hope everyone lives in the moment and enjoys each day. And lastly, I hope everyone can dream of a brighter future and our paths lead us to health and happiness.”
Students have been encouraged to participate through the College’s website and social media platforms. Graduates have been mailed special “Wolf Pack” packages including letters of congratulations, an alumni pin, stickers and most importantly, their graduation cap to wear proudly in advance and to amplify today’s celebrations.
“To our graduates, you have all played an important role in maintaining and enhancing the quality of the GPRC experience,” finished Dr. Murray. “Our College remains focused on becoming the northern centre of excellence for post-secondary education in Alberta and serving our students with innovative, inclusive and modern educational experiences. I know each and every one of you will play an important role in a better future for our communities and I wish you the best as you go out and pursue your dreams. Congratulations.”
This unique celebration for graduates and the entire GPRC community is available to view at .