OCNews

More than 800 students from across the Okanagan and beyond are crossing the stage this week as Okanagan College (OC) marks Spring Convocation and Commencement ceremonies at all four of its campuses – Kelowna, Vernon, Salmon Arm and Penticton – celebrating graduates from dozens of different programs who represent the diverse training offerings at the College.

Two ceremonies are being held in Kelowna today (June 6) while ceremonies will also take place in Vernon (Monday, June 8 at 4:30 p.m., Vernon Performing Arts Centre) and on OC campuses in Salmon Arm Tuesday and Penticton on Wednesday. Each of the ceremonies features student speakers from different OC programs. 

From health care and trades to science, business, technology and the arts, this year’s graduates arrived at OC from across British Columbia, Canada and the world. Among the graduands are geologists, cooks, mycologists, career-changers and mature students, a reflection of the breadth of backgrounds and ambitions that define today’s post-secondary landscape.

“In a world that often focuses on our differences — be it age, experience, place of origin, or interests — it is important to remember what we have in common,” said Melissa Therrien, student speaker graduating from the Environmental Studies Diploma program at the first Kelowna ceremony. “Together, we can support one another and help build a better future for all living things, including the land and water.”

Therrien, who now calls West Kelowna home, opened her address with greetings in Nsyilxcən and Michif, the language of the Métis people, before speaking to her fellow graduates about the shared experience that connect the group across their programs and the College. 

“This week we are celebrating our graduates on all four of our campuses, and that says something powerful about the reach and the role of Okanagan College in this region,” said Dr. Samantha Lenci, OC Provost and Vice-President Academic. “Every one of these graduates has worked hard to earn this moment, and every one of them is leaving here ready to make a real difference — in their communities, in their fields, and in the lives of the people around them.”

Okanagan College holds convocation and commencement ceremonies in January, June and October, reflecting the college’s year-round calendar of career-focused programs. In addition to degrees, diplomas and certificates, OC offers a growing portfolio of shorter duration credentials and microcredentials designed to meet evolving workforce needs across the region.

For more information on Okanagan College programs and services, visit okanagancollege.ca.