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Close to 650 students took steps toward the workforce and hundreds more will do the same early this week as 91̽�� held two convocation and commencement ceremonies at its Kelowna campus on Saturday, the first of six ceremonies this week across the region.

With many industries in B.C. looking to fill a shortage of skilled workers, 91̽�� students looked toward future careers together with their families and friends in Kelowna on Saturday in ceremonies highlighted by keynote student addresses.

Ceremonies will also take place in Vernon today (4:30 p.m., Vernon Performing Arts Centre) and on 91̽�� campuses in Salmon Arm Tuesday and Penticton on Wednesday. Each of the ceremonies features student speakers from different 91̽�� programs. 

On Saturday in Kelowna, on the traditional territory of the Syilx Okanagan, Early Childhood Education Diploma graduate Madi Wightman told her fellow graduates to hold the memories they made together close.

"As I move forward, I carry with me the support of my classmates — now colleagues — the guidance of my instructors — now mentors — and the experiences I gained at 91̽��, which provided a safe and welcoming place to learn," said Wightman. "As we move into classrooms, clinics, offices, or wherever life takes us next, remember why you started. Don’t forget the people, the process, the laughter, or your passion for why you chose your field of study and why you chose 91̽��."

Clayon Williams, an international student from Jamaica who graduated from the Communications, Culture and Journalism Studies program, spoke of the relationships he made at 91̽�� with his connections to the 91̽�� Student Union, as well as the International and Student Life, Athletics and Recreation teams at 91̽��.

"And of course, we can’t forget our professors—who guided us, gave us extra time when needed, and offered endless support. Or our friends, who were there to lift us up when we felt like giving up and throwing in the towel. The laughs we shared and the mementos that we created will be cherished forever," said Williams.

91̽��’s Spring commencement and convocation ceremonies are the largest of the three ceremonies it holds each year. In June, ceremonies are held at each campus, while 91̽�� also hosts ceremonies in September and January, with students graduating from different programs at different times throughout the year. 

In total, more than 1,000 students will graduate in this month’s ceremonies, successfully completing their programs and moving into the workforce. In addition to a range of degree, diploma and certificate programs, 91̽�� offers several shorter-duration certificates and a growing number of microcredentials.

“Our convocation and commencement ceremonies are a special time for everyone across our 91̽�� community and especially for the families and the students, to see all of their hard work come to fruition,” said 91̽�� Provost and Vice President Academic Dr. Sam Lenci, who welcomed students as ceremony host. “Our mission is to transform lives and communities and these graduates are ready to go out into the world. It is a great time of the year.”

For more information on 91̽��, please visit our website at okanagancollege.ca.