More than 500 graduates gathered today at the Jack Singer Concert Hall to begin a new chapter in their lives and celebrate their achievements at the Bow Valley College spring graduation ceremony. Graduates heard from Sharon Carry, President and CEO of Bow Valley College, and spring 2013 graduation keynote speaker Dave Kelly, about the value of pursuing post-secondary education in a world where having specialized skills leads to new opportunities.

"Today our graduates join over 300,000 alumni who are making positive contributions to our communities and province by providing solutions where others see problems," said Sharon Carry, President and CEO of Bow Valley College. "I know that you have all worked very hard to reach this significant achievement in your lives and I feel very honoured to be able to share this proud moment with you and your families."

As representatives of the class of 2013, and class valedictorians, Mitchell Dahl of the School of Health, Justice and Human Services and Recipient of the Governor General's Academic Medal, and Deanna Wright of the School of Business shared some thoughtful advice about what graduation means to them.

Dahl took to the stage and addressed each of the different BVC programs, then continued by speaking to their collective experience at BVC.  "I feel that we've been very fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn in this College environment among a diverse array of students, instructors, and career programs." She continued, "During this brief time we've witnessed an enormous transformation occur at BVC, amid the building construction, and recent opening of the South Campus. I personally feel that a significant transformation has also occurred in every one of us that is able to walk across this stage today."

Currently, Dahl works as a Peace Officer with the City of Calgary. He continues to strive towards his future career aspiration of becoming a police constable with the Calgary Police Service, RCMP or another Police Agency in Western Canada.

Wright touched on the future impact graduates would have, "We are the leaders of future students, professionals in the industries where we will leave our mark. We are at the cusp of our careers, with all the potential in the world. We just need to seize it. So now, while looking back and recognizing our accomplishments I would like to challenge you to turn your focus and look forward. It's time to set new goals, to reach new heights, to tap into your vision for your future and make it a reality. "

As Calgary and region's only comprehensive community college, Bow Valley College responds to regional, community, industry, and learner demand. Our career certificate and diploma programs are fast, focused, and flexible, creating work-ready graduates-like those you see before you today.

Bow Valley College graduates from both the School of Business and from the School of Health, Justice, and Human Services find work in their chosen fields faster. You will find these graduates in health care facilities, legal firms, police services, financial institutions, events companies, and more. You will find them in cities, towns, and First Nations' communities within Alberta and beyond. As these men and women walk across the stage today-transforming before our eyes from students to skilled corporate citizens-we are proud to welcome them into the BVC family of alumni.

Each Bow Valley College graduate is here today because of the generosity of family, friends, teachers, and donors. Each one persevered, often juggling work and family obligations on top of their rigorous studies. Programs represented at today's graduation include:

• Accounting and Financial Management Certificate
• Administrative Professional Certificate
• Business Administration Diploma - Accounting
• Dental Business Assistant Certificate
• Early Learning and Child Care Certificate
• Early Learning and Child Care Diploma
• Health Care Aide Certificate
• Hospital Unit Clerk Certificate
• Medical Office Assistant Certificate
• Pharmacy Technician Diploma
• Practical Nurse Diploma
• Recreation Therapy Aide Certificate
• Veterinary Office Assistant Certificate