By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

54th RDC Convocation sees more grads than ever

Jun 1, 2018 | 4:27 PM

Close to 2,000 students are now graduates of Red Deer College.

They were celebrated on Friday at RDC’s 54th annual Convocation ceremonies, 592 actually in attendance to take the stage.

“The number of graduates that will cross the stage makes this the largest Convocation day we have had in RDC’s history,” says Joel Ward, President & CEO. “All of us at RDC are so proud to celebrate and to honour the accomplishments of our students.”

At the ceremony, an honourary degree was bestowed upon Dr. Timothy Richards in recognition of his contributions to agricultural economics, to training and mentoring students, and to leading change in North America’s agribusiness sector.

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Richards was a student at RDC in the 80s.

“Throughout his notable career, he has demonstrated an absolute and total commitment to making a difference in his field, and he embodies the values that are symbolized by a Red Deer College Honourary Degree,” says RDC Board Chair Morris Flewwelling.

Additionally, two students awards were handed out.

Gillian Coulton, who just completed the final year of her diploma-level Visual Arts program, received the Governor General’s Academic Medal.

“The Governor General’s Academic Bronze Medal represents outstanding scholarly achievement that speaks to dedication and hard work on the part of the student,” says Dr. Paulette Hanna, Vice President, Academic. “It is a privilege to see a deserving student be presented with this Award each year, and Gillian Coulton’s academic record sets her apart, making her a worthy recipient of this medal.”

Brittany Lessard was given the RDC Foundation Outstanding Student Award for her leadership and commitment to RDC and volunteering.

“This Award acknowledges a student who has demonstrated exceptional contributions to the College and the community,” says Holly Dickson, Chair of RDC’s Foundation Board. “With her tremendous contributions as a student leader across a variety of groups and her extensive work to support the needs of both current and future students, Brittany is a very deserving recipient of the 2018 Outstanding Student Award, which includes a $1,000 scholarship presented by the Red Deer College Foundation.”

Students who have achieved high academic standing were also acknowledged Friday by the President and Deans through the honour roll.