Red Deer College once again had to celebrate graduating students differently in 2021.
With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the college held its 57th annual convocation virtually Friday.
“Convocation is always such an important and emotional time, and that is especially true this year,” said RDC president Dr. Peter Nunoda.
“These graduates made the choice to participate and to complete their education, despite formidable odds and circumstances that were undoubtedly different than they had envisioned. By rising to the challenge and earning their credential, each of these graduates has shown incredible resiliency and dedication, and I hope they are truly proud of all they have achieved.”
As part of the virtual ceremony for Convocation 2021, RDC also announced two special award recipients.
Brittany van Vlaanderen received the Governor General’s Academic Medal (Collegiate Bronze Level) for her academic excellence.
She graduated with a Social Work diploma, and she earned a GPA of 4.0 and four grades of A+ in the final year of her program.
“Recognizing special award recipients is always a meaningful part of convocation celebrations, and I would like to personally congratulate both of these individuals,” says Nunoda. “Brittany van Vlaanderen has demonstrated excellence and success of the highest level in her program, which is a tremendous way to transition to the next phase of her life and career.”
Danny Rode was the seventh recipient of the Honorary Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies Degree in recognition of his 50-year career as a sports journalist, where he has shown astounding commitment to RDC Athletics and its student-athletes.
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This convocation represents another special milestone for the college, as the 1,619 graduates from 2021 represent the final class from Red Deer College, before it transitions to Red Deer Polytechnic.
“There is no question that this convocation is special on several levels,” Nunoda said.
“I truly wish that we could gather this year and that I could shake the hands of each and every graduate, so I could tell them how proud I am. Given the circumstances, we have put in every effort to ensure graduates feel our pride and a sense of community through the virtual ceremony and our social media celebration. The class of 2021 represents a milestone in the history of our institution, and they now transition to being an essential part of our vibrant group of alumni.”