Lethbridge College called this event ‘a once in a lifetime experience’.
A new tradition was announced Thursday afternoon; a ceremony to install and celebrate President and CEO Dr. Paula Burns. The event was designed to mark a new chapter for the college, as well as honour its history.
“Although I’ve been here for almost 3 months, as the President and CEO, to have that official installation and sort of that academic ceremonial piece is really important to me in terms of recognizing the Lethbridge College community,” said Dr. Burns following the ceremony.
Dr. Burns was presented with a ceremonial robe, hood and medallion designed specifically for the event. The ceremony hosted a number of speakers, including Minister of Alberta Enterprise and Advanced Education Thomas Lukaszuk. The minister said despite $147 million in provincial budget cuts, the government plans to support the college through programs like Campus Alberta.
“Our Premier Redford and the captain of our caucus have made a determination that the future of Alberta’s economy will be dependant on the education of our young people,” said Lukaszuk at the event. “And we know that this education has to be accessible in all parts of our province and this college plays a huge role in providing that comprehensive education package to students.”
Lukaszuk added that he looks to institutions in Lethbridge to lead the way in demonstrating the benefits of Campus Alberta. And while the college will have to trim about $3.5 million from its budget, Dr. Burns said she already has a plan.
“We know that education is shifting and changing in ways that we have to be responsive to, but more importantly that the economic diversification of our province depends on us finding those solutions. So we will shift and change and grow with what we’re doing with academia over the next couple of years.”
This is the first ceremony of its kind in Lethbridge College’s 56 years.
Dr. Burns has been serving as its 8th President and CEO since February.
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