CNC students achieve perfection

Jacqueline Schellenburg and Elena Norris are perfectly suited for the College of New Caledonia's graduation ceremonies today.

They each maxed out in the marks department in their chosen fields of study at CNC. Schellenburg, a graduate of the medical lab technology program, and Norris, who has completed the college's early childhood education program, scored perfect 4.33 grade point averages.

Schellenburg will receive the Governor General's Academic Collegiate Bronze Medal for having the highest overall academic standing in a diploma-level post-secondary program, while Norris is the winner of the Lieutenant Governor's Silver Medal for having excelled in studies in a vocational or career program less than two years long, while also enhancing the college and the community.

Today at 2 p.m., during the convocation ceremony at CN Centre, 224 CNC grads from 30 programs will have their names called to receive their diplomas and certificates. Each graduate will receive a commemorative scarf. Mayor Shari Green and Prince George-Valemount MLA Shirley Bond are scheduled to attend the ceremony.

Last year, a record 230 students graduated after studying at the Prince George CNC campus.

"Our graduates have what it takes to succeed, whether the next step is further education and training, or into the workforce," said CNC president John Bowman. "The college community is very proud of their hard work and dedication to learning. This is a major personal achievement and a huge milestone for them."

The first graduating class of the one-year mining industry certificate program set up last fall in Fort St. James will cross the stage at CN Centre today.

"The number of students who are participating in this year's convocation is only a fraction of those who actually graduate every year," Bowman said. "Many cannot participate because of work and other commitments."

The Mary John Award of Excellence will be handed out today to a yet-to-be-announced CNC student who strives to live with dignity while serving others and the community.

Convocation ceremonies for students who attended CNC's Quesnel campus are set for Thursday, June 21.