The College of New Caledonia (CNC) celebrated an impressive convocation today as 667 graduates from Prince George, Vanderhoof, Mackenzie, Burns Lake, and Fort St. James crossed the stage at the CN Centre during CNC's 56th Convocation Ceremony.
Graduates from the School of Trades, Applied Arts and Technologies, the School of University Transfer, Access and Business, the School of Health Sciences and Human Services, and Community and Continuing Education were recognized for their academic achievements in front of family, friends, faculty, staff, and community leaders.
A total of 1,259 graduates are receiving credentials across all CNC campuses in 2026. Graduates from CNC's North Cariboo Campus in Quesnel will be celebrated during a separate convocation ceremony on June 9.
"Behind every credential is a story of perseverance," said Cindy Heitman, President of CNC.
"These graduates have demonstrated remarkable resilience, and today we celebrate not only their academic achievements, but the determination, courage, and community support that helped them reach this milestone.”
"As graduates of the College of New Caledonia, you are stepping into a world defined by rapid change," added Heitman. "Communities across Northern British Columbia are seeking leaders, innovators, healthcare professionals, tradespeople, educators, entrepreneurs, and compassionate citizens. And that is precisely what you represent."
During the ceremony, CNC Vice President Indigenization, Dr. Jessie King, presented the Mary John Award, which recognizes a student who exemplifies the late Elder Mary's commitment to community service, Indigenous language preservation, and cultural revitalization.
This year's recipient is Hannah Olinek, a graduate of the Medical Radiography Technology Diploma program.
"Receiving the Mary John Award of Excellence feels like I'm bringing my great-grandmother's legacy full circle," said Olinek. "This award lets me honour the cultural strength she lived every day and reminds me to carry those same values into every patient I care for and every community I am part of."
Lheidli T'enneh Chief Dolleen Logan delivered greetings to graduates and reflected on the significance of the milestone.
"I was honoured to be here a few years ago to watch my daughter cross the stage, and my granddaughter will be joining CNC this fall," said Chief Logan. "When I saw my daughter cross the stage, I saw her life in stages, from crawling and walking to Kindergarten and beyond. Days like this are highlights of my career. Thank you for choosing CNC to further your education. You will spread your wings and go in different directions, but you will always be a CNC alumnus."
Jessie Sunner, British Columbia's Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills, congratulated graduates through a special message.
"Convocation is the end of one chapter, but more importantly it marks the beginning of what comes next," said Sunner.
"CNC is highly regarded across the province for its hands-on training, community-focused campuses, and commitment to helping students build the skills they need for meaningful careers. You can now join the ranks of CNC alumni who are highly regarded as leaders, builders, caregivers, and problem-solvers."
Convocation represents one of CNC's most significant annual celebrations, recognizing the hard work, determination, and achievement of students who have completed their educational journeys and are preparing to make meaningful contributions throughout Northern British Columbia and beyond.
For more information, see our press release.