College grads look to future

“Be ambitious, stay motivated, and never lose faith in yourself.”
That was the advice valedictorian Rhonda Ruymar gave to her fellow graduates Friday night during Confederation College’s commencement exercises at La Place Rendez-Vous.
Ruymar was among 14 graduates who received their diplomas in either business, international business, or law and security.
“Today marks the end of the long and rewarding journey of graduation,” she said. “It symbolizes a change.
“There was a time I feared change because of uncertainty,” she added.
“Now I realize it’s part of success.”
Confederation College president Roy Murray was on hand to congratulate this year’s graduates.
“For anyone in the education business, graduation is a very special time,” he noted. “It’s the time when you see the finished product of your work.”
Murray pointed out the difference between ability and attitude. While one’s grades can measure their ability, he said it is one’s attitude in life that will determine their success.
“I’ve taken these philosophies on my own,” he said. “If we all do that, the world will be a better place.”
Lisa Alton, Dawn Booth, Kelly Faragher, and Lori McQuarrie graduated from the business program while Shellie Carmody, Tanya Dueck, Dennis Morrisseau, Johanna Watson, and Ruymar graduated from the law and security program.
Meanwhile, Lori Godin, Angela Halverson, Anita Barker, Patty Jorgenson, and Barb Tibbs completed the Confederation College portion of the international business program.
They will spend next year at Rainy River Community College in International Falls to receive an associate degree on top of the diploma they earned here.
“The next year will prove two organizations working together is a benefit to students,” noted Sue Collins, speaking for RRCC president Allen Rasmussen.
“I think next year is going to be a little bit easier,” said Jorgenson after she had received her diploma. “And it’s going to be different, too.”
Jorgenson also was presented with the Dean’s Medal for her program. while Watson and McQuarrie were presented Dean’s Medals for the law and security and business programs respectively.
“I’m still shaking,” Jorgenson said. “I don’t know if it’s hit me yet.”
“It’s great,” echoed Watson. “I wasn’t sure [I’d get it].”
Watson said the last two years in the program were quite a challenge, and she’s looking forward to relaxing this summer. But she doesn’t plan to sit still for long.
“In the fall, I’ll start actively looking [for a job],” she said. “I’d like to work with young offenders.”
“I’d like to get an excellent job working with people,” Jorgenson remarked. “I want a challenge–that’s what I want in my career.”