Between the College and Adult Learning Centre, there were 74 graduates who received diplomas at Red River College Steinbach Campus Thursday evening.

Regional Director Mary-Ann Shukla says the graduation ceremony was held in Steinbach this year instead of at the Niverville Heritage Centre. This was also the first year awards were available to be given to their students. "It's very exciting for us, we've had the community really step up and provide some awards for our students for the hard work they've done."

There wasn't a Valedictorian this year, but Shukla says one student received a very prestigious award. "Lori Penner has received the gold medal for the Business Administration Diploma. This is granted for the highest GPA in the program for the entire College."

One thing Shukla says many people don't know about their students is that about 60% of graduates balance school with family and a work schedule. "That means they are pretty good time managers, and that bodes well for them as employees."

Shukla says students are successful with the practicum portion of the many different programs they offer because of the generosity of local employers as they welcome their students.

"Without these opportunities provided by our partner companies, students would not have this additional valuable opportunity to turn theory into practice. What is exciting for instructors and staff at this time of year is seeing our students thrive in the community and claiming some small part of that success."

The graduation ceremony was held at 3:30 pm on June 22, at Steinbach Mennonite Church, and was followed by a punch reception at the Red River College Steinbach Campus.