Great Plains College Graduation ceremonies took place Friday, May 21, 2010 at the Credit Union Iplex in Swift Current.  Eighty nine graduates received their certifications for the following programs: Adult 10, Adult 12, GED, Business Certificate, Electrician, Power Engineering Level 4, Power Engineering Level 3, Welding, Practical Nursing  and the college’s first-ever  Social Work Degree grads.  Students from Swift Current, Maple Creek and Gravelbourg gathered for this event.  There were over 220 students, staff and guests in attendance to celebrate the occasion. 

The program commenced with greetings from Mark Frison, Great Plains College CEO/President, followed by greetings from the Board of Governors Chair, Bryan Shygera.  Students were then presented their certificates.

Myshel Pajuaar (Swift Current’s first Living Sky Idol and current Great Plains College staff member and student), accompanied by Robert Smokeyday, (Power Engineering Level 4 Instructor) entertained the crowd with live music. Pajuaar’s introduction included a quote that she shared with the graduates, “The pursuit of self betterment doesn’t come without its challenges, but without those challenges, the rewards are worthless.”

The evening closed with an entertaining faculty address by Wendy Crouch. Crouch is an instructor in several college programs (University, Practical Nursing, and Continuing Care Assistant).  She brought humor and life experience to her address giving the graduates as well as the audience something to think about.  “Don’t lose sight of what you have earned,” encouraged Crouch. “Don’t let anybody take that from you or make it small.  Many of you will now be heading out for jobs or already have them.  Be proud of your piece of paper.”

Following the ceremony, students and guests enjoyed food and refreshments and shared stories with their fellow grads and friends.

“We are very proud of the hard work and dedication that brought the students to their graduation day and wish them all success in their future endeavors”, said Student Services Officer and event coordinator, Diana Molyneux.