�԰ɵ��

�԰ɵ�� Honours Achievements of Graduates at 60th Convocation

Jun 07, 2024

Graduates pose for photo with �԰ɵ��'s mascot, Rufus, before ceremony

Today, �԰ɵ�� (�԰ɵ��) celebrated the Class of 2024 with families, community members and employees at its historic 60th Convocation Ceremonies. More than800 of 1,853 eligible �԰ɵ�� graduates from 2024 atte nded the ceremonies in the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre.

“We are delighted to celebrate our largest Convocation ceremony and graduating class in our institution’s history,” comments Stuart Cullum, President, �԰ɵ��. “I would like to congratulate the Class of 2024. I encourage all of our graduates to utilize the skills and competencies they have earned at �԰ɵ�� to create positive change within their organizations, their communities and our country, as they begin the next chapter of their lives.”

Graduation picture of a smiling Catrina Amendt in her grad gown holding a bunch of red roses — Catrina Amendt

Catrina Amendt received the Governor General’s Academic Medal (Collegiate Bronze Level), achieving the highest overall academic standing amongst the 2024 graduating class. Amendt completed a Social Work Diploma, earning a GPA of 4.0 during the 2023/2024 academic year.

“I congratulate Catrina on earning the Governor General’s Academic Medal, one of the most prestigious awards that a student in the Canadian educational system can receive,” says Lindsay Engel, Vice President, Academic and Student Experience. “It is truly a testament to her hard work and dedication to her studies. We wish Catrina and all of our 2024 graduates well in their future endeavours.”

This year, �԰ɵ�� granted Honorary Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies Degrees to both Dr. George Littlechild and Sheldon Kennedy at Convocation for providing meaningful impact provincially, nationally and globally.

Dr. Littlechild, an �԰ɵ�� alum, conveys expressive messages through art that showcase the pride, strength and beauty of Indigenous Peoples. His artwork has been featured in more than 200 solo and group exhibitions and 40 public collections around the world, including at �԰ɵ��. Dr. Littlechild’s art entitled 4 Star Art Warrior is proudly displayed inside the main entrance of �԰ɵ�� as a reminder to students, staff and visitors of the ongoing journey toward Truth and Reconciliation.

Smiling headshots of George Littlechild and Sheldon Kennedy — (L-R) Dr. George Littlechild, Sheldon Kennedy

Mr. Kennedy, a former NHL player, has been a strong advocate for the well-being of youth across the nation. He was a catalyst in the vision of a child advocacy centre in central Alberta, which evolved into the world-class Sheldon Kennedy Centre of Excellence. This facility provides important services for youth and creates an array of educational and applied research opportunities for �԰ɵ�� students and employees.

Since 2014, the Polytechnic has bestowed Honorary Degrees to 13 individuals, including Dr. Littlechild and Mr. Kennedy.

View more details about �԰ɵ��’s 60th Convocation

Watch our recap of the celebration

Related News

Smiling headshots of George Littlechild and Sheldon Kennedy

Two Honorary Degrees Bestowed at 60th Convocation Ceremonies

At its 2024 Convocation Ceremonies, �԰ɵ�� (�԰ɵ��) awarded Honorary Degrees to both Dr. George Littlechild and Sheldon Kennedy for providing meaningful impact provincially, nationally and globally. Dr. Littlechild, a graduate of �԰ɵ��’s Art and Design Diploma program, conveys messages through art that showcase the beauty, pride and strength of Indigenous Peoples. His vivid use of colour represents Indigenous being, history and two spiritedness, focusing on cultural, social and political injustices. Through his advocacy, creativity and leadership, Dr. Littlechild encourages individuals to embrace their authenticity while respecting others, contributing to a more inclusive society. His expressive art has become a pathway toward Healing, Truth and Reconciliation. Dr. Littlechild has received numerous honours and awards. This recognition includes a REVEAL Indigenous Art Award which recognizes Indigenous artists who have shown leadership in their home communities and worldwide. As an instructor at Emily Carr University of Art + Design, Dr. Littlechild has inspired students to tell stories through a variety of creative mediums by sharing his knowledge, skills and experiences. Dr. Littlechild’s artwork has been featured in over 200 solo and group exhibitions and 40 public collections worldwide, including at �԰ɵ��. In September 2023, �԰ɵ��’s public employees, Students' Association

A large group of students in graduation gowns are throwing their grad caps into a clear blue sky above them

Graduating �԰ɵ�� Cook Apprenticeship Student Reflects on Journey at 60th Convocation Ceremonies

The Graduating Class of 2024 has been etched into �԰ɵ�� (�԰ɵ��) history. On June 7, more than 800 of �԰ɵ��’s record number 1,853 graduates crossed the stage at the Polytechnic’s 60th Convocation Ceremonies. For Lauren Milne, a recent graduate of �԰ɵ��’s Cook Apprenticeship program, being involved in the milestone Convocation Ceremonies was special. “I am honoured to be part of �԰ɵ��’s history,” says Lauren, who has called central Alberta home for the past 10 years. “It has been a very enriching and truly enjoyable experience at �԰ɵ��. I am a little sad to close this chapter but am very excited to see what lies ahead.” Following high school graduation in Kitchener, Ontario, Lauren began working in the service industry and found her passion. After gaining several years of work experience, she made the important decision to pursue a post-secondary education and advance her competencies. Lauren’s return to the classroom was made easier by the welcoming learning environment at �԰ɵ��. “My instructors were very supportive and helpful which made the process of going back to school less intimidating." As a mother and wife, Lauren wanted to take a program that suited her lifestyle and fulfilled

Smiling graduation photo of Catrina Amendt with �԰ɵ�� graphics in background

�԰ɵ�� Student Receives 2024 Governor General’s Academic Medal

Having earned a GPA of 4.0 during the 2023/2024 academic year, Catrina Amendt received the Governor General’s Academic Medal (Collegiate Bronze Level) at �԰ɵ��’s 60th Convocation Ceremonies. This honour is awarded to a graduate with the highest grade point average. Catrina decided to pursue the Social Work Diploma program at �԰ɵ�� to elevate her knowledge, skills and community impact. In conjunction with past work experience in the human services field, Catrina believed this credential at the Polytechnic would prepare her to assist more individuals, challenge barriers and advocate for social change. While earning the two-year diploma, Catrina appreciated the smaller class sizes at �԰ɵ�� which fostered greater connections and collaborations with peers and instructors. These experiences helped to increase learning and create more opportunities for personal growth. While Catrina had several memorable moments throughout her time at the Polytechnic, she is proud of speaking at a Red Deer City Council meeting, advocating for vulnerable populations in the community. Catrina, who is from Hepburn, Saskatchewan, is grateful for the community of people who supported her throughout her educational journey. In particular, she appreciates the roles that her parents, grandparents, friends and mentors played in helping her achieve her goals