(rdnewsNOW file photo)

By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

final class of 'rdc'

RDC celebrates Class of 2021 and special award recipients

Jun 4, 2021 | 8:00 AM

Red Deer College is celebrating its Class of 2021 today.

The 1,619 students graduating today make up not only the institution’s 57th class, but the final one before Red Deer College transitions to Red Deer Polytechnic.

“Convocation is always such an important and emotional time, and that is especially true this year,” says Dr. Peter Nunoda, President. “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.”

Two special award recipients are being honoured this year, the first being Brittany van Vlaanderen, who is receiving the Governor General’s Academic Medal (Collegiate Bronze Level) for her academic excellence.

van Vlaanderen is graduating with a Social Work diploma and a GPA of 4.0, including four grades of A+ in her final year.

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RDC is also continuing its tradition of granting an Honorary Degree to an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the advancement of RDC’s social, cultural and economic wellbeing.

Danny Rode and Brittany van Vlaanderen are RDC’s Class of 2021 special award recipients. (RDC)

This year’s recipient is Danny Rode, who becomes the seventh recipient of the college’s Honorary Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies Degree in recognition of his 50-year career as a sports journalist. His work has helped land RDC on the map as one of the best colleges in Canada, a statement says.

“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, our Honorary Degree recipient, has spent five decades sharing the stories of our student-athletes, coaches and teams. He has earned the reputation as someone who has never missed a home game – in 50 years – which is unheard of, and speaks volumes to his unparalleled dedication to athletics and this community.”

The virtual ceremony for RDC’s 57th Convocation, as well as a virtual ceremony celebrating the Class of 2020, are each available at rdc.ab.ca/convocation. The College will be celebrating graduates on its social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter) throughout the early part of June 2021.