Assiniboine celebrates more than 460 graduates at fall ceremony in Brandon

Assiniboine College celebrated more than 460 graduates from 32 programs Friday at a graduation ceremony in Brandon.

“Graduation ceremonies are meaningful and memorable days, for the graduates opening the door to new opportunities, and for their families and friends who are able to recognize this milestone alongside them,” said Mark Frison, President of Assiniboine College.

Assiniboine continues to play a significant role in preparing graduates for Manitoba's labour market. Graduates crossing the stage today are poised for careers in a variety of sectors, including healthcare, early learning, technology, agriculture, business and skilled trades.

“Graduates reach this day having developed the knowledge, skills and experience needed to succeed in careers that matter to Manitoba’s future. Each year and each graduation ceremony I feel the significance of these moments. I look forward to seeing the impact these graduates will have in communities and workplaces across the province,” said Frison.

Among today's graduates are more than 65 Practical Nursing and Comprehensive Health Care Aide students and 50 students in early learning programs.

“The graduates leave Assiniboine with more than a credential,” said Dr. Deanna Rexe, Vice-President Academic. “Through their time at Assiniboine, they have gained the confidence and capabilities to contribute to their chosen field. Whether they are caring for patients, advancing technology, supporting families, or helping businesses grow, they are well prepared for meaningful careers and lifelong success.”

For Practical Nursing graduate Jillian Klassen, she is excited to celebrate the day with her classmates. “I had a great time at the college; I think the program was amazing and has helped reinforce the importance of patient-centered care,” she said. Originally from Carman Manitoba, Klassen began her career earlier this year in the neonatal ICU and pediatric maternity floors at Brandon Regional Health Centre. She shared a word of advice for future or current students, “Just make sure you do kind, compassionate care, always listen to your patients and know what they are needing and feeling.”

The Honourable Renée Cable, Manitoba's Minister of Advanced Education and Training, congratulated graduates on reaching this milestone and highlighted the important role they will play in communities throughout Manitoba.

“Congratulations to Assiniboine’s graduating class on this remarkable achievement,” said Cable. “Your dedication and hard work have prepared you for careers in fields that are essential to Manitoba’s continued growth and success. Our province benefits when graduates choose to build their futures here, and we look forward to the contributions you will make in healthcare, education, business, agriculture, technology and communities across Manitoba.”

In addition to today’s graduation in Brandon, the college will recognize more than 350 students at a graduation ceremony in Winnipeg in November.

For those unable to attend, a livestream of the ceremony is available at assiniboine.net/grad.