News Archives: Convocation Ceremony at GPRC
Saturday, May 6th, 2017
GRANDE PRAIRIE – The latest graduates of Grande Prairie Regional College were honoured on May 6 in a packed gymnasium for their achievements. The total graduating class that attended the convocation ceremony is approximately 230 for the 2016-2017 Academic Year.
Convocation ceremonies at GPRC annually include speeches from two students representing the graduates: the Valedictorian, who has completed a GPRC credential with academic excellence and contribution to college life; and the Salutatorian who has completed a collaborative baccalaureate degree at GPRC with academic excellence.
The Paul J. Evaskevich Valedictorian Award recognizes Brandon Wladyko for his academic achievement, contributions to college life and personal growth. Wladyko is graduating from GPRC’s Fitness Leadership program.
Wladyko has always been passionate about fitness and found his way to GPRC after discovering the college’s reputable physical education and kinesiology (PEAK) department. His time at GPRC has opened him up to new experiences like joining the GPRC Wolves Cross-Country team. “It would have been something that never crossed my mind, but after giving it a try, it’s become something I’m incredibly passionate about,” says Wladyko.
Representing his fellow graduates at Convocation 2017 is a great honour. “I’ve had an extraordinary time here and I hope to inspire my classmates to think and look back on everything we’ve learned and how much we’ve grown every step of the way. We’re laying the foundation for the rest of our lives and that’s an exciting thing,” says Wladyko.
Next up for Wladyko as he plans the final steps in his career. “I’m transferring to GPRC’s Kinesiology program, which means that I’ll be at GPRC for one more year before heading to the University of Alberta,” says Wladyko.
Wladyko is looking forward to another year at GPRC. “I’m come to really love it here, plus I have a couple cross-country goals that I want to hit. I’m really looking forward to next year,” he says.
The Beth Sheehan Salutatorian Award is presented to Jonathan Parenteau who is graduating with a Bachelor of Management, a collaboration degree offered at GPRC.
Parenteau discovered his love for learning at GPRC. “GPRC has been really welcoming,” he says. “I didn’t really know what to expect when I came to college, but once I got here, I really loved the environment. I definitely caught the learning bug. I’m even thinking now, once I get my masters, I’d love to come back and teach at GPRC – how awesome would that be.”
During his studies, Parenteau has always found time to dedicate to volunteering. Parenteau is a regular volunteer for GPRC Wolves events, tutors for the On-Campus Friendship Centre, volunteers at the student tax clinic and as an alumni advisor. On top of this, Parenteau is a member of the GPRC Wolves Cross-Country team and competes with the GPRC Business Case Team.
Parenteau reflects fondly on his time at GRPC. “It hasn’t always been easy, but GPRC gave me opportunities and has opened a lot of different doors for me and my future career. I hope to inspire my fellow graduates to never stop learning. Although, our time at GPRC may be ending, we’re all really just getting started.”
Convocation 2017 is the concluding ceremony of the Academic Year at GPRC Grande Prairie.
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For more information, please contact:
Mark Evans GPRC Corporate Communications Phone: 780-539-2951 |