Urban Circle co-founder to receive Honorary Diploma from Red River College
WINNIPEG, MB – Tonight, A long-time community leader will be recognized with the College’s highest academic honour for the lasting impact she’s had on the lives of children and families.
Eleanor Thompson, Director of Development at Urban Circle Training Centre, will receive RRC’s 2016 Honorary Diploma in Community Development/Community Economic Development.
As co-founder of Urban Circle, Thompson has worked tirelessly for nearly 30 years to provide accessible, culturally appropriate education and training to Indigenous people in Winnipeg. Thompson is a strong advocate for programs that are grounded in Indigenous culture, and that lead to employment in stable sectors with potential for growth. As such, Urban Circle partners with RRC on certificate programs in heath care, family support and early childhood education — many of which lead to advanced studies in social work and education.
Recently, Thompson served as one of the driving forces behind the development of the Makoonsag Intergenerational Centre on Selkirk Avenue, a 52-space early learning facility for the children of Urban Circle students. She’s also a member of the Premier’s Advisory Council on Education, Poverty and Citizenship.
“She has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to providing culturally relevant and respectful educational opportunities to empower the social and economic development of her community,” says RRC’s Dr. Christine Watson, interim Vice-President, Academic and Research. “Her belief in the transformative power of education truly reflects the mandate and values of Red River College.”
The College’s Honorary Degrees and Diplomas recognize individuals who’ve demonstrated high standards of excellence in their personal and professional achievements, and whose local, national and international accomplishments qualify them for such a recognition.
Recent recipients include Dave Angus and Ace Burpee (2015), and Larry Vickar and Lisa Meeches (2014).
Thompson will receive her diploma at convocation ceremonies taking place this evening, at 7:00pm at the Centennial Concert Hall.
Red River College’s Spring Convocation takes place from Tuesday, June 7 to Wednesday, June 8th, 2016 at the Centennial Concert Hall. Times are below:
Tuesday, June 7, 2016 – 7:00pm
- School of Business and Applied Arts
- School of Continuing Education
Wednesday, June 8, 2016 – 1:00pm
- School of Business and Applied Arts
- School of Health Sciences and Community Services
Wednesday, June 8, 2016 – 7:00pm
- Centre for Teaching Excellence, Innovation and Research
- School of Construction Engineering and Technologies
- School of Hospitality and Culinary Arts
- School of Health Sciences and Community Services
- School of Indigenous Education
- School of Transportation, Aviation and Manufacturing
To learn more about RRC’s convocation ceremonies visit: www.rrc.ca/convocation
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