Last Graduation Ceremony Takes Place at Yukon College for Over 200 Students

Thursday, 23 May 2019 12:55

Over 200 students were part of the last graduating class at Yukon College today before the institution formally becomes a university next year.

Students graduated across an array of 33 different certificate, diploma and degree programs at the university, with Trondek Hwechin Elder Egnes Joseph-Rear also receiving an honorary Northern Studies degree for the involvement she's served in her community.

Chancellor Pier Mcdonald says the commitment grads have shown up until their graduation today will prepare them well for the future.

"Your graduation today is a culmination of hard work, long hours, and sometimes sleepless nights. It has involved many sacrifices. You've felt the anxiety of wanting to do well while constantly being challenged. In the end, you've shown that intellectual discipline and curiousity can produce life-altering results. I know a lot of you are feeling a little apprehensive of what comes next. But I can tell you from my own experience, you're better prepared now than you know to face the challenges ahead."

Yukon College President Dr. Karen Barnes says just like Yukon College transformation next year, graduates lives will also be transformed as they continue on through their next path in life.

"Our new ""On the Land, Science 30"" program has just piloted in Carcross and will travel next to Haines Junction. Our new ""Community Education and Employment Support Certificate"" program begins in September and this month, we're welcoming our next cohort of students into the community-based, ""Environmental Monitoring"" program. Graduates, please join us as we forward. Good luck in your future adventures, and please, stay in touch."

Convocation Keynote Speaker and Alkan Air CEO Wendy Taylor says its important now for graduates to follow their dreams to spark their own unnoticed passions.

"In your life, I know you've just finished your schooling one way or another. But, if you're traveling down that path and there seems to be a hard right turn in a certain direction that makes your heart beat faster and that makes you more excited, go do it. Whether that's going back to school or going into a whole new industry, follow your heart. Follow your passion, and you're going to have the most fulfilling life."

Also attending the occasion today were Council of Yukon First Nation Grand Chief Peter Johnston, Ta'an Council Chief Kristina Kane, and Kwanlin Dun First Nation Chief Dorris Bill.