Winnipeg, Manitoba, on Treaty No. 1 Territory and the Homeland of the Red River Métis Nation – Today, RRC Polytech will celebrate more than 1200 graduates at Fall Convocation, as they enter the workforce prepared to face any challenge head on.       

“Tonight’s ceremony is just the start for this resilient group of graduates. Acquiring their skills and credentials in an unprecedented period of constant change has added to their employability – they truly deserve a celebration,” says Dr. Christine Watson, Vice President Academic, RRC Polytech. “Our convocation ceremonies represent opportunity and optimism, so we’re thrilled everyone can acknowledge this milestone accomplishment together.”

Many of the individuals graduating today completed a significant portion of their learning in a virtual or hybrid setting, and will celebrate their success along with their friends, family and instructors tonight at the RBC Convention Centre.

Among the honorees at tonight’s ceremony is Michael Stewart, RRC Polytech’s 2022 Lieutenant Governor’s Medal recipient. Stewart graduates with Honours from the Applied Accounting Certificate program and inspires everyone around him as a tireless volunteer, support worker, and advocate in the deaf-blind community.

“From instructors and interpreters to classmates, I am blown away by the generosity, kindness, and top-notch service provided by RRC Polytech,” says Stewart. “My education will open so many doors for me as I work toward becoming a chartered professional accountant and achieving my ultimate goal of changing the stigma associated with the ability of deaf-blind Canadians to work and contribute.”

Born without hearing and adjusting to diminished sight, Stewart used remote learning to his advantage in May, attending classes while volunteering at the 2022 Deaflympics in Brazil and shared the enriching experience with his classmates. He’s a committee member for Canada’s first summer camp for deaf-blind adults which he helped found in 2017 and works multiple part-time jobs including as a Professional Direct Support Worker for deaf and autistic clients at New Directions.

RRC Polytech awards up to four Lieutenant Governor’s Medal awards each year to graduating students who excel in academic and technical achievement, involvement in College and/or community activities, and good character.

On average, 95 per cent of RRC Polytech graduates begin working in their field within six months of graduating. This year’s graduates will bring skills and knowledge that will help them contribute on day one, and help move Manitoba’s industries in front of what’s ahead.

“The class of 2022 have proven they’re capable of adapting to great change, and thriving despite challenging circumstances,” says Dr. Watson. “I look forward to seeing what they bring to the workforce and to their communities.”

RRC Polytech will continue to offer a virtual convocation experience for those who are unable to attend or are not yet ready for a large, in-person gathering. For a full list of graduates, award winners, and to stream the ceremony please visit rrc.ca/convocation.