Caps and gowns

Hugs, laughter and tears could all be seen at the College of the North Atlantic's Port aux Basques campus on Wednesday as another group of graduates celebrated their accomplishments. Campus administrator Jan Peddle led the graduation ceremony, which was attended by about 40 graduates and their family members.

This year, 122 students graduated from nine programs at the college. Mr. Peddle noted the college already has 192 students registered for eight programs in the coming school year, and another 195 registered for continuing education.

Mr. Peddle said many of the grads who wanted to be in attendance for the ceremony were away on work terms or already in permanent jobs. He said the number of students who had already found jobs shows the college's ability to train students for the workforce.

We're always looking for new programs to put in place to help the business community in the area, said Mr. Peddle.

Port aux Basques Mayor Brian Button brought congratulations from the town and noted its connection to the college. He said the Town of Port aux Basques has recently hired several graduates, adding they came to the job prepared and motivated.

Valedictorian Chantelle MacIsaac spoke about the strangers who became friends both in and out of class. She noted the many extracurricular activities that took place at lunch and after hours that brought students together.

I hope I speak on behalf of all of us when I say - woo hoo!

The student with the highest average from each program received the President's Medal of Excellence from Garry Pinto, executive director of human resources with the college. Among the winners were Irene Bird for adult basic education, Amy Linehan for cabinet making, Chris Keeping for office administration, Michael Granter for nondestructive testing 1, Rose Williams for nondestructive testing 2, Graham LeDrew for non-destructive testing 3, Brad Anderson for welding/metal fabrication, Shauna Billard for business administration and Rhonda Carroll for office administration.

Rhonda Carroll also received the Governor General's Academic Medal for highest standing in the entire student body.

reporter@gulfnews.ca