More than 3,000 Conestoga College graduates are eligible to take part in the 38th Convocation ceremonies on Wednesday, June 14 and Thursday, June 15 at the Conestoga College Recreation Centre in Kitchener.
There will be four ceremonies in all -- two on each day.
The first starts at 3 p.m. on June 14 and features graduates of full-time and part-time programs in two academic areas: the School of Engineering and Information Technology, and the School of Trades and Apprenticeship.
A special feature of this ceremony will be an address to the graduates by Mike Holmes, producer and star of the popular show Holmes on Homes, featured on HGTV and other specialty channels, such as BBC Canada. A highly skilled, no-nonsense renovation contractor, Holmes champions trade skills and proper procedures. He also heads up The Holmes Foundation, which encourages pursuit of careers in the skilled trades as well as providing help to families victimized by unethical contractors.
The evening ceremony on June 14 begins at 7 p.m. and honours graduates of full-time and part-time programs in the School of Business and Hospitality.
The 3 p.m. ceremony on June 15 recognizes graduates from several areas: full-time and part-time programs in the School of Liberal and Media Studies, all programs in Health Sciences, and programs directly administered by the Continuing Education Division.
The final ceremony, which starts at 7 p.m. on June 15, is for graduates of all programs in Community Services.
Graduates will receive certificates and diplomas, and will be invested with the Conestoga Liripipe, a ceremonial shoulder sash denoting successful completion of studies and readiness to enter their chosen vocations.
In addition, Conestoga will present its four major college-wide awards.
The Governor General’s Academic Medal goes to the diploma-level graduate with the highest academic standing in the Class of 2006. The Mastercraft Award goes to the individual or student team producing the best program-related technical project. The James W. Church Achievement Award is for the graduate who combines exemplary community service with outstanding academic achievement. The Aubrey Hagar Distinguished Teaching Award goes to a faculty member who has compiled a record of excellence in the areas of teaching, curriculum development, academic innovation, service to students and service to Conestoga.
The Alumni Association also presents awards at Convocation to a number of distinguished alumni who have achieved career success and made positive contributions to the community.
CONTACT: John Sawicki, 519-748-5220, ext. 3336