BVCAA hosts first Aboriginal alumni reunion

On June 20, 2009 the BVCAA and Bow Valley College Aboriginal Centre co-hosted the first official Aboriginal alumni event in the College's history. Keynote and alumnus, Roy Bear Chief, spoke about his own educational journey and commended his fellow alumni for reaching their own personal and educational goals.

Alumna Charmaine Bressette inspired guests with her own story about struggling in school early on and coming to the College for Academic Upgrading after realizing that her own children would need her to help them through their studies. Once back in school, with the support of the staff and faculty at the Aboriginal campus, Charmaine was inspired to continue and graduated with her Education Assistant Certificate in June 2009. Charmaine plans to start work in the Fall and continue her studies in Behavioural Support so that she can specialize in her field.


The event was composed of a variety of elements meant to honour and celebrate the traditions of Aboriginal (First Nations, Metis and Inuit) alumni, including: a grand entry, blessing by elder Patricia Breaker, Pow Wow dance demonstrations, and traditional Metis dance performances. The afternoon ended with a round dance which started with a circle of alumni and grew to include all those in attendance.

The BVCAA and Aboriginal Centre look forward to making an annual tradition of celebrating the College's connection with the Aboriginal community and bringing our alumni back full circle.

Alumnus Roy Bear Chief inspires guests with keynote speech