Loyalist College Bancroft graduation

BANCROFT, Ont (10/03/2013) Loyalist College President Maureen Piercy talks to recent grads of the Personal Support Worker course at the Bancroft Campus . Photo by James Wood

By Alisa Howlett

Bancroft can now welcome a group of potential future employees into its workforce.

Loyalist College awarded 86 diplomas and certificates to 80 graduates on Oct. 3 at the 14^th annual Bancroft campus graduation ceremony.

Among the graduates was Courtney Maracle, a personal support worker from Campbellford. Maracle delivered the valedictorian address after an introduction by Dean Jim Whiteway.

“I loved the personal support worker program and I’m so thankful that Loyalist offers it at off-site campuses,” said Courtney.

“I worked full-time while attending school and would never have been able to do that if I was driving to another location to attend college. I’m already working at Hastings Manor in Belleville and Burnbrae Gardens in Campbellford. I am so glad I have chosen this career path.”

Two students were recognized with awards. The Herbert L. Esford Award was presented to personal support worker graduate, Kim Avery. The Vance Motors business management award was presented to small business bookkeeping graduate, Cathy Watson.

Loyalist College President Maureen Piercy congratulated the graduates.

“I know your decision to continue your learning experience was most likely motivated by personal reasons – to enhance your life, and that of your family,” she said.

“However, it is important to remember that your new skills and credentials will also enrich the organizations for which you work, your patients and clients, and your communities. You are adding to the quality of life for all of us.”