Photo credit: globalnews.ca

Lethbridge Polytechnic Prepares for Inaugural Graduation Ceremony

Last fall marked a pivotal moment for Lethbridge College as it celebrated its final graduating class. This spring, the institution has officially rebranded as Lethbridge Polytechnic and is gearing up to host its first graduation ceremony for a new cohort of students.

Abigayle (Abby) Terrill has been announced as the inaugural valedictorian for Lethbridge Polytechnic, an achievement she describes as both surprising and exciting. “It’s kind of weird, surreal, but it’s pretty cool,” Terrill expressed regarding her honor.

As she prepares to receive her diploma in Agriculture Sciences, having completed her major in Animal Science last spring, Terrill reflects on her unique accomplishment. “To be the first actual Polytechnic valedictorian, that’s quite an honor and it’s all well-earned,” noted Clair Fitzpatrick, an instructor in the Agriculture Science program. Fitzpatrick added, “Abby deserves all the accolades she’s getting right now.”

Growing up on a ranch near Cardston, Alberta, Terrill aspires to eventually return home. “Eventually, I will go back and run the ranch with my mom, but in the meantime, I’m trying to figure out my options. I’m debating going to vet school,” she shared. Despite her roots in ranching, she emphasizes the importance of education. “I just love animals, and it’s good to go to school even if I was going to go back to the ranch,” Terrill explained. “It was a good option—still close to home so I can help out.” She believes that the knowledge gained throughout her studies will be beneficial, regardless of her future career path.

Throughout her academic journey, hands-on experiences played a vital role in her education. “Once a week, we would have a two-hour lab for each class where we got to do more hands-on things like dissecting and learning more about what’s actually happening inside the animals—practical information,” Terrill recalled.

Fitzpatrick emphasized that Terrill’s selection as valedictorian was a clear choice. “I think everything Abby did was pretty top notch. She set the bar really high for herself and other students around her, and what I noticed most was her willingness to help other students,” he said. However, Terrill believes that her success is also a testament to the support of her educators. “They were amazing. I could not have asked for better instructors. Clair, I loved his classes, and many other instructors really made a memorable impact,” she noted.

Terrill will lead her peers in the graduation procession on May 23 at the Val Metteotti Gymnasium, an event marking a significant milestone as Lethbridge Polytechnic embarks on its new chapter.

Source
globalnews.ca