January 20, 2012

“Our turn to be the future”

Convocation celebrates JIBC graduates & honorary degree recipients

Sub-zero temperatures did not deter JIBC graduates from assembling at Burnaby’s Michael J. Fox Theatre January 18 for the 2012 Winter Convocation celebrating the completion of their studies. They shared the stage with honorary degree recipients Dr. Irving K. Barber, business leader and philanthropist, and Dr. Mike Harcourt, former BC Premier, and speaker, author, and advisor internationally on sustainable cities.

Dr. Barber announced a donation of $250,000 to JIBC for the development of a new Aboriginal Justice Certificate.

Read about Dr. Barber's donation to JIBC

Dr. Harcourt recalled his role in officially opening JIBC’s New Westminster campus in 1995, and remarked on how JIBC has grown into a “world-renowned institution, with reach throughout the province and the world.” He also paid tribute to his wife Becky, JIBC-trained paramedics, fire fighters and other first responders for their quick and courageous action in keeping him alive and transporting him to hospital after Dr. Harcourt broke his neck on Pender Island in 2002.

JIBC Board of Governors Chair Mary Manning conferred certificates, diplomas, and degrees for more than 200 graduates who completed programs in JIBC’s three schools.

Speaking on behalf of graduates from JIBC’s School of Community & Social Justice, Ron Dean Harris said his perspectives broadened after completing the Aboriginal Leadership Certificate program. “I can admit that when I first joined the Aboriginal Leadership program, my ideas on Aboriginal leadership were different than they are today. In this program, I have been given the opportunity to learn more than a few different ways and avenues for finding my own excellence within leadership.”

Advanced Care Paramedic graduate John Merrett, speaking on behalf of School of Health Sciences grads, said: “As much as we’ve studied some of the latest in paramedicine, now is the time that our real learning starts. It is our turn to be the future.”

Speaking on behalf of graduates from the School of Public Safety & Security, Daniel Leighton said: “The Justice Institute has been my lifeline to education because of the high quality educational programs they offer.” Daniel, Fire Chief and Emergency Coordinator for the District of Logan Lake in BC’s southern interior, graduated with an Emergency Management Exercise Design Certificate. He previously completed JIBC’s Emergency Management Certificate and studied in the Institute’s Fire & Safety Division.

“JIBC is in the business of preparing professionals who will save lives and keep communities safe,” said JIBC President Jack McGee in his address to the graduating class. “Nothing speaks more directly to how well the Institute does its job than the quality of the work you will do, as JIBC graduates.”