October 22, 2009 | Manitoba
Community rallies behind grads to celebrate personal successes
Winnipeg, MB - October 22, 2009 - CDI Winnipeg grads will file into the pews of Knox United Church on Saturday Oct. 24th to receive their college diplomas in front of family, friends and prominent community figures. For many, this day signifies the beginning of a bright new future and the culmination of a long, hard journey.
"Every student's journey is different and each road has many challenges involved in its completion. Some students are working part time or even full time jobs, many of whom are the sole income provider for their households and families. Other students are single parents or caregivers to an elderly or disabled person," says Craig Johnson, an Employment Specialist at CDI College. "Many of our students are new Canadians who are not only learning to live in a different culture but also to speak a new language. Other students are transitioning from life on a remote community to life in an urban centre."
More than 500 people are expected to show their support for 80 graduates from a variety of disciplines like the Addictions and Community Service Worker, Intra-Oral Dental Assistant and Legal Administrative Assistant programs.
"Graduation is an event which is not just for the graduates to celebrate this achievement but it is also a celebration for their proud and adoring families," says Johnson. "These families shared in the hard work and struggle to succeed and join with us to share pride with the graduates."
Saturday's graduation will also feature four CDI student performances with one student drumming the honour song for the procession, two will sing during the event and another will close the ceremony off with the piano and an Elton John song.
Almost all current graduates have already been hired by either their practicum hosts or other local businesses. If you're interested in the programs available at CDI College, visit http://www.cdicollege.ca.