On Thursday, 1,203 students graduate from Assiniboine Community College, an increase of more than 26% over the 948 students that received their parchment last year at this same ceremony.

“We are always thrilled to be part of celebrating what is one of the largest milestones in a person’s life,” said president Mark Frison. “And while graduates culminate months and years of hard work and dedication, the journey for these individuals is really just beginning.”

A total of 932 students will be graduating from 50 certificate and diploma programs in addition to 171 completing their final levels from seven trade apprenticeship programs. A further 100 students have completed certificates or documents of achievement.

“Enrolment and graduation numbers continue to grow year after year at Assiniboine, and we’re well on track to doubling our number of graduates by 2025,” noted Frison. “Education has a critical role to play in ensuring we have a skilled workforce to support the growth and sustainability of our province.”

Each year the Province of Manitoba awards two graduating students with Lieutenant Governor’s Silver Medals. These graduates have excelled academically, displayed strength of character and contributed to the college and community in a meaningful way.

This year’s medal recipients are Heavy Duty Equipment Technician graduate Michael McFadden and Land & Water Management graduate Paiten Harapiak.

The college is awarding Phil Fontaine with an honorary diploma in Community Development at the graduation.

Two more graduation ceremonies take place later this month: Parkland Campus (Dauphin) on June 9 and Adult Collegiate (Brandon) on June 24.