Four ceremonies held over two days, have recognized 1,241 new Portage College graduates.

Held at the Lac La Biche Portage College campus on June 5 and 6, the size of the 2025 graduating class is an indication of the steady growth at the northeastern Alberta post-secondary, says President and CEO Nancy Broadbent.

“Not that long ago, probably five years, we were a college of 900 full-load equivalent students, and this year we are going to be close to 1,700 or even a bit higher,” she said, crediting the faculty, staff, programming, recruiting, student experience, and employment results for the growing success.

According to the most recent surveys, 90 per cent of last year’s Portage College graduates are in jobs related to their education. The survey also shows employer satisfaction with graduates stands at 99 per cent.

Speaking to a crowd of about 600 people made up of the graduates, their families and friends at each of the ceremonies in the campus gymnasium, Broadbent repeated the phrasing that the college is a “community of people helping people” where students are never just a number. She maintained that personalized message in each presentation, offering each graduating class her heart-felt wishes.

“Today is about warming your heart and giving you a moment that will be imprinted on your heart forever. Take the time to celebrate the milestones, because that is what life is about. You will forever be Portage College Voyageurs and alumni,” she said. “Today we are here to celebrate your academic success …and the world also needs your passion and your kindness, because like Portage College, which is people helping people, all of you are going to be working with people – so make sure that you carry that compassion and kindness with you.”

In his presentations to the graduating students, Portage College Board of Governors deputy chairperson Brian Rudyk amplified the message of student-focused learning.

“As board members, we work diligently on governance, policy and strategic direction, all with your success in mind,” he told graduates. “In our boardroom discussions, student achievement is always at the heart of all of our decisions.”

The results of that personalized attention and community feel are appreciated, said Manuel McBraun, a graduating Business Administration Diploma student who has also been the president of the Students’ Association of Portage College.

“We have grown tremendously, not only academically, but personally,” he told fellow students at each convocation event, underlining the importance of a learning environment where strong bonds are forged with other students, faculty and staff.  “Every experience has shaped us into the individuals we are today. We have learned that success is not just about grades or accolades, but about the friendships we build, the lessons we learn, and the impact we will leave behind.”

The convocation ceremonies saw students from seven Portage College campus locations across northeastern Alberta graduate from 36 certificate and diploma programs.

The Portage College convocation ceremonies included a Practical Nurse Pinning Ceremony as well as an Honour Ceremony where eagle feathers and Metis sashes were presented to students. The convocation days also featured a registration opportunity for the new graduates to join the Portage College Alumni Association.

Lots More Photos & Video --

Image and Video links of the June 5 and 6 Portage College Convocation ceremonies can be found in several Portage College online locations:

* Full video recap of the four Portage College Convocation 2025 ceremonies June 5 and 6.

* Go to the Portage College Flick’r site

* Social media galleries can be found at the Portage College facebook and Instagram

Contact

Rob McKinley, Engagement Specialist
Corporate Communications
w. 780-623-5786 / c. 780-4041539
rob.mckinley@portagecollege.ca