The success of students has been the goal of Red River College for a number of years. Joanne Unrau, Regional Campus Manager for the Winkler Campus, says this year was no exception.

In total, the Winkler campus saw 240 students enrolled in various part-time courses, 84 in full-time programs; 29 are in the first of a two-year program, 55 will be graduating at this year's convocation. 

Unrau explains one way Red River helped promote success was by hiring part-time Academic Success Coaches at the regional campuses. The coaches aid students through lunch-and-learn opportunities in subjects such as academic writing and referencing, dealing with exam anxiety, job search skills information, among many other topics and discussions, says Unrau.

Programs have also evolved over the years to assess the needs of the community and provide trained workers for those sectors. Unrau notes Early Childhood Educators have been in high demand and a new Bachelor of Nursing Degree program will begin in the fall.

Speaking on behalf of the Student Association, as they could not attend the convocation this year, is Business Administration student Arlan Thiessen. His speech revolves around the connections he formed and the pride he and all students should feel for their success.

"We did this two years together, we made it through. A lot of hard work was put in by all the students not just the Business Admin students but everyone in general. It's an accomplishment that no one is going to take away from them, it's something they've earned through their hard work. They should be very proud of themselves and take the time to celebrate."

The Winkler campus is a great option for people wanting to pursue their post-secondary education says Thiessen, adding it's a place for people who don't want to leave the community to receive an education. The smaller classroom sizes also create a more intimate learning environment, he says.