Olds College's 101st graduating class accepted their parchments in the annual graduation ceremony held in the Ralph Klein Centre on Saturday, June 4.
A total of 842 students completed their studies at the college this year, the largest graduating class in the college's history.
“Graduation is a special time for all of us. It is a time of celebration of accomplishments and achievements,” said Jason Dewling, the college's vice-president, academic and research.
“It is a time to recognize all of the hard work, dedication and commitment that Olds College students have put into achieving their goals. It is a time for our families, friends and instructors to celebrate with us, because for many of us, it has taken their support to reach this goal.”
This year's valedictorians were Chancey Lane and Josiah Schut, both of whom received their agricultural management diploma, production major.
The Governor General's Academic Collegiate Bronze Medal went to Valerie Ehrenholz, who took agriculture management with production and marketing majors.
The Olds College Alumni Association Proficiency Award was presented to Hope Albrecht, who received a land agent diploma, and Pauline Hondl, who received a land and water resources diploma with a major in land reclamation and mediation.
Megan Lethbridge, who received a business management certificate, took home the Olds College Alumni Association Graduation Prize. Lethbridge also served as internal vice-president of the Students' Association of Olds College.
The Presidential Instructional Excellence Award went to Dr. David Bjolin of Animal Sciences.
This year, OC's annual honorary degree was presented to Saajid Khan, CEO, Compass Group Canada and ESS North America.
Chartwell's, a division of the Compass Group, provides meals at OC.
The company has also provided more than $250,000 in scholarships and bursaries to the college. Over a 10-year contract, the value of its investment in Olds College is expected to exceed $2 million.
This story is based on information provided by Olds College communications coordinator Randy Butler.
"Graduation is a special time for all of us. It is a time of celebration of accomplishments and achievements." JASON DEWLINGVICE-PRESIDENT ACADEMIC AND RESEARCH OLDS COLLEGE
