Bancroft, Ontario, September 28, 2012 – At the 13th Annual Bancroft Campus Graduation Ceremony on September 27th, Loyalist College proudly awarded 73 diplomas and certificates to students in recognition of their academic accomplishments.
The graduation address was delivered by Dr. Henry Christiansen, a member of Bancroft’s Family Health Team who has served on the Board of Governors for the College.
“Congratulations on your hard work and your accomplishments,” said Dr. Christiansen. “Now that your heads are full of knowledge, you have to go out and learn the other half, including the wisdom to apply your knowledge. There are two ways of gaining experience – by learning from other people’s experiences and learning from your own experiences. Learn from your mistakes, as long as they are honest ones.”
In his speech, Dr. Christiansen shared advice with graduates, “Distinguish yourselves from others. Look at problems as opportunities and out-think and out-work everyone else. To convince an employer that they need and want you, consider all the extra things that you may be able to bring to a job. When you get the position, the best way to keep it is to think smart and make yourself irreplaceable. And if you find your heart isn’t in it, find something else to do.”
During the ceremony, the following post-secondary credentials were presented:
- Ontario College Diplomas in Early Childhood Education, Office Administration, Office Administration – Medical, Practical Nursing, and Social Service Worker.
- Ontario College Certificates in Food Service Worker, Office Administration, and Personal Support Worker.
- Loyalist College Certificates in Computer Fundamentals, Computer Fundamentals – Advanced Desktop Publishing, Facilitator of Adult Learning, Health Records Clerk, Home Inspection, Hospital Ward Clerk, and Office Assistant.
The Herbert L. Esford Award was presented to Mathieu LeBlanc, Personal Support Worker program, and the Vance Motors Business Management Award was presented to Laurie Watson, Office Administration Diploma program.
“Many of the graduates have held full or part-time jobs and/or maintained a household during their studies, which can be a huge challenge,” said Loyalist College President Maureen Piercy. “The sacrifice and support of families and friends reflects the importance and value this community places on education and career enhancement. The vast majority of tomorrow’s jobs will require a post-secondary credential, which is why these graduates made the commitment and stuck with their studies. This ceremony is an opportunity to recognize them and celebrate their success.”
Loyalist College Bancroft Campus is a vibrant and busy satellite campus of Loyalist College in Belleville. The College prepares students for a rewarding career by combining rigorous academic standards with hands-on training from industry experts. Programs include certificates and diplomas. Since 1967, the Bancroft Campus has been a leader in developing and implementing education and training programs to Bancroft and the surrounding areas. It has extended its services in Ontario through outreach programs in locations such as: Barry’s Bay, Curve Lake, Picton, Campbellford, Napanee, Tweed and Rama. Loyalist is committed to helping students find great jobs, as well as supporting and enhancing the economic and social development of all individuals in its communities.
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For more information contact:
Kerry Lorimer
Manager, Corporate Communications & Media Relations
Loyalist College
613-969-1913 ext. 2536