A major milestone for grads of ACC’s Adult Collegiate

Twenty-seven students from ACC's Adult Collegiate will be receiving their mature high school diplomas at a ceremony tomorrow afternoon.

This year’s valedictorian, Elaine Bridges, is graduating from the Integrated Comprehensive Health Care Aide (CHCA) program, meaning she’s earned both her Mature High School Diploma in addition to a CHCA certificate.

“I finally get to follow my dreams of helping people in a meaningful way,” said Bridges. “I’m 54 years old and it scared me to have to go back to school and finish my grade 12 education and then complete my health care aid training. With lots of fears, tears and inner strength, I did it!”

“The staff at the Adult Collegiate were there for me when I was down to pick me back up or give me a push to continue on,” she added.

Ten students will graduate with honours, meaning they have achieved a cumulative average of at least 80 per cent in their courses.

Awards will be given to 13 students for excellence and achievement. Two entrance scholarships will be presented to graduates continuing their post-secondary education at ACC. Other awards include the Academic Excellence Award, Learning Community Award, Westman’s Award of Excellence Scholarship and UFCW Scholarship.

The graduation ceremony takes place tomorrow at the McDiarmid Drive Alliance Church in Brandon beginning at 1:30 p.m.

Among the special guests in attendance will be MP Larry Maguire, MLA Reg Helwer, Deputy Mayor Jeff Harwood and Elder Verna Demontigny.

Last week the college held its annual graduation ceremony in Brandon more than 900 graduating students receiving diplomas, certificates and apprenticeship certification.