Robin Garrett, CEO, The Tourism Partnership of Niagara, addresses graduates during NC’s morning convocation ceremony on June 18.
VP Academic Steve Hudson (left) and College president Dan Patterson (right) applaud global expert on youth entrepreneurship Vivian Prokop at the June 18 afternoon convocation ceremony.
Hundreds of college students celebrated their transition into alumni today as Niagara College kicked off its Spring Convocation Ceremonies.
About 350 students graduated from the College’s School of Hospitality, Tourism and Administrative Studies during the morning ceremony; while about 300 students graduated from the schools of Business and Management Studies, and the School of Hospitality, Tourism and Administrative Studies during the afternoon ceremony.
College president Dan Patterson told graduates that they represent what the College, its professors, administrators and staff members strive for.
“We only succeed when you succeed and we certainly take great pride in your accomplishments,” said Patterson. “It is you who will help drive our economy and future prosperity, because it is college graduates who make our communities work, and in no place is that more evident than right here in Niagara.”
The morning ceremony’s guest speaker was Robin Garrett, CEO of The Tourism Partnership of Niagara, who received an Honorary Diploma in Tourism Management from the College.
“Tourism is one of the largest and fastest growing industries in the world. According to the UN World Tourism Organization, tourism has been growing at a pace of 3% to 4% annually and this growth pattern is projected to continue right through to 2030,” she said. “So good for you … you’re joining an industry that has a promising future with lots of job opportunities and Niagara has so much potential. It is the jewel in Ontario’s crown when it comes to tourism.”
Garrett advised graduates to learn continually while on the job, to give back to society, to strive for work-life balance, and to apply their dreams as she did.
At the afternoon ceremony, Vivian Prokop, global expert in youth entrepreneurship and founding chair of the G20 Young Entrepreneur Alliance and Summit, received an Honorary Degree in International Commerce and Global Development. She encouraged graduates to let their hearts guide them as they embark on their careers.
“Too often, people are driven by job titles and money. There’s a 14-inch step from your head to your heart. Listen to your inner voice and find your true gift,” she said. “Living a balanced life is the true meaning of success.”
This year’s Spring Convocation Ceremonies – the College’s largest to date – will see 3,300 students, cross the convocation stage to receive degrees, diplomas or certificates. Held at NC’s Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus, the ceremonies take place between June 18-21, at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. each day.
