“You have been training for careers in industries and fields that are critical to the future of our state and our nation,” Niagara University's president told the students.
news release
Niagara College
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On the third of Niagara College's six-day spring commencement ceremony, nearly 1,000 students from the schools of media, trades and technology took to the stage, many of whom will land high-paying jobs and help solve the skilled trades worker crisis.
“At the University of North Carolina, you have learned many lessons and been trained for careers in industries and fields that are critical to the future of our state and nation, that move the world forward and that support our communities,” President Sean Kennedy said in his address to the graduates.
“In an increasingly digital world where AI is transforming the way we work and live, it's important to remember that nothing can replace the magic of human connection.”
A shining example for the graduates, Wendy Wing, senior vice president of finance and administration for Rankin Construction, received an honorary degree in Applied Research – Business Administration during the afternoon ceremony.
Wing, a prominent Niagara business leader with more than 30 years of experience with Rankin Construction and a past chairman of the NC State Board of Regents, took the stage to address the graduates, who were joined in the audience by his parents, Tom and Beth Rankin, and other family members.
Wing described the award as an “incredible honour”.
“I'm very happy to receive this honor, but I wouldn't be here without my family and the team at Rankin University, and I'm also very grateful to Niagara University.”
Wing was awarded an Honorary Degree in Applied Research – Business Administration for his significant achievements in business and the community, his continued and unwavering support of Niagara College and its students, and his generous sharing of knowledge and leadership.
“Wendy and her family are valued supporters and advocates for Niagara College, contributing to student success by funding scholarships and awards and helping to expand and improve the campus so students have the best teaching, learning and gathering places,” Kennedy said.
“I think it's a great time to be working in beautiful Niagara, with exciting projects coming up here,” Wing said, noting a range of industrial investments and construction projects to support the region's rapidly growing population.
Wing urged the graduates to use the resilience they developed as students at the University of North Carolina to overcome challenges.
“You'll encounter potholes, detours, road closures and construction sites that will force you to recalculate your route, but you'll definitely be able to go faster on straight roads. Don't be afraid of the journey – be brave!”
Dean's Award Winners
Wednesday's ceremony also recognized three outstanding graduating students who received the Dean's Award, given to the student who achieved the highest GPA in each department.
Jordan DiMarcantonio of Stoney Creek graduated with a degree in Computer Programming and was awarded the Dean's Award in the School of Media Studies. DiMarcantonio transferred to the University of North Carolina during her third year of college to gain hands-on experience in preparation for a career as an IT Systems Assistant with the Ontario Ministry of Transportation.
Manuel Felipe Pérez Flores, a native of Chile, a graduate of the Woodworking and Renovation Technician program, received the Dean's Award at the vocational school. A freelance architect in his home country, Flores decided to study with Canadian carpenters and woodworkers in North Carolina to improve his skills as a designer and contribute to Niagara's economy as a skilled craftsman. He completed a co-op as a project manager with Empire Communities and volunteered on various projects, including custom displays for North Carolina's signature fundraising gala.
Blake Chambers of Stevensville is a graduate of the Computer Systems Technician – Network and Cloud Technology program who received the Dean's Award from the Technology School. Chambers plans to test his knowledge of enterprise-grade networking equipment and software as he works toward obtaining industry certification.
Alumni Spotlight: Bright Futures
Graduates of NC’s photography program had another reason to celebrate: Six graduates were recognized in the Applied Arts 2024 Student Awards, a prestigious international photography competition.
Alanna Ransom of St. Catharines graduated with honors from the Mechanical Technology General Machining program, and she's already pursuing her dream career as an apprentice at DM Precision, a CNC machine shop in Danville.
Anastasia Slyvka from Kyiv, Ukraine graduated from the Computer Programming and Analytics (Coop) program, gaining the hands-on experience she needed to succeed in a technology-driven world. During the program, Slyvka was a member of the North Carolina Women in Tech club. As a research assistant, Slyvka developed VR applications at SoilOptix and later accepted a full-time position as a front-end developer.
Graduates from the university's Broadcast – Radio, Television and Film Production program worked behind the scenes to coordinate the graduation ceremony's livestream before taking to the stage and stepping into the spotlight.
Niagara College 2024 Spring Term Commencement Ceremony
The University of North Carolina's spring commencement season continues through June 15, with 12 ceremonies gathering a record 5,500 graduates at the Simpli Financial Athletic Center on the Welland campus.
To see a complete schedule and listing of graduation programs for each faculty, please visit the “Ceremony Schedule” section of the Niagara College Commencement website. All ceremonies will be streamed live and available to watch at a later time.
For more information, visit niagaracollege.ca/convocation
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