This year's graduating class was the largest in Red Deer Polytechnic's history.
Nearly 1,000 graduating students were recognized during pair of convocation ceremonies were held at Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre on Friday, June 6.
"We have around 980 graduates crossing the stage, which is incredibly exciting," RDP president Stuart Cullum said following the institution's 61st convocation.
"It shows this institution is growing and this institution is valued by those looking to get a good education. ... It a tremendous celebration for our graduates, demonstrates the accomplishments they've have in their programs, but it's also (an important day) for their loved ones."
The polytechnic celebrated the first graduating classes of its Computer Programming Diploma, Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Education Middle and Early Years programs, Instrumentation and Automation Engineering Technology Diploma and Mechanical Engineering Technology Diploma.
Aubrey Reed received the Governor General’s Academic Medal (Collegiate Bronze Level), by achieving the highest overall academic standing among the 2025 graduating class.
Haley Nelson is being acknowledged as the recipient of the Alberta Teachers' Association Gold Medal in Education. Nelson was selected by RDP faculty for demonstrating the highest general proficiency in her coursework and field experiences.
"My time at Red Deer Polytechnic has meant alot," said Nelson, who is teaching Grade 7-8 Humanities at Delburne Centralized School until the end of the month.
"I'm really grateful that I've had the opportunity to receive a post-secondary education. I've met lots of new friends, and have learned lots from my instructors and peers in my classes. I think it's set me up for success in my future career."
This year, RDP granted honorary degrees to Joan Donald and Gail Surkan at the convocation ceremonies.
Donald, alongside her late husband Jack, have donated more than $26 million to the institution, including a $20 million gift to establish the Donald Family Institute for Healthtech Innovation. The philanthropist also previously served on RDP's board of governors.
"I am truly honoured to be granted a Bachelor of Business Administration Honorary Degree from Red Deer Polytechnic. I truly believe in the power of education and lifelong learning. I would like to thank Red Deer Polytechnic for this great honour," said Donald.
Surkan was the City of Red Deer's first female mayor — she served in the position from 1992 to 2004. She secured a partnership for a new library at RDP, which led to additional funding. Surkan’s leadership also extended to the Canada Winter Games Board, in part helping develop the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre. She also spearheaded the Central Alberta Economic Partnership.
"I feel very privileged to be recognized in this way," said Surkan.
"I've had the opportunity to work with the community and (RDP) over many decades. You do it because you want to do it and you feel it's important — you don't really look for recognition. But when you are recognized and thanked, it feels especially sweet."
Since 2014, the polytechnic has bestowed honorary degrees to 15 individuals, including Donald and Surkan.
