Nursing, education and other graduates from a range of UNBC programs received their credentials in a ceremony held May 29 at the REM Lee Theatre.
Those present witnessed 43 students receiving recognition — 17 Bachelor of Education graduates, 17 Bachelor of Science graduates, three Bachelor of Social Work graduates, one Master of Science in Natural Resources and Environmental Studies graduates, one Bachelor of Planning graduate, one Bachelor of Science in Wildlife and Fisheries graduates and three Certificate in First Nations Language-Tsimshian graduates.
Of note were the Bachelor of Education graduates as they represented a renewed program on the part of UNBC.
“I’m incredibly grateful it was an option for me,” said education graduate Shelley Potter of the ability to earn a degree in Terrace through in-person and digital means.
She was also selected as class speaker for the education program.
Also drawing attention were the Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduates with instructor Amy Klepetar telling the audience more than 200 people have now graduated from the program which is offered in partnership with Coast Mountain College. Many are working in the north, Klepetar added.
“Being able to be home and do the full four years in my hometown was comforting and made it less stressful,” said nursing graduate Melissa Andrei.
There were greetings from UNBC Chancellor Darlene McIntosh and UNBC President Dr. Geoff Payne.
Tsimshian elder Sharon Bryant offered an opening prayer and the ceremonies were opened by the ‘Na Aksa Gyliak ‘yoo drummers from Kitsumkalum.