February 9, 2017

On February 9, 2017 Medicine Hat College’s (MHC) Brooks Campus held their annual awards ceremony. An event that, according to Cindy Slenders, director of regional stewardship and Brooks Campus, is an opportunity for the college and community to applaud the accomplishments of their students.

“There is a real sense of community at the Brooks Campus and this is one time each year we take the moment to recognize a few of those individuals who each add to the community in their own way,” says Denise Henning, president and CEO. “There are so many people and achievements to celebrate at this ceremony, but my favourite are the surprise awards.”

Three awards are especially coveted as they are selected through an open nomination process including staff, faculty and students.

This year one of those honours went to Raelee Higginson as Outstanding Student of the Year. Higginson has succeeded academically as well as being singled out for her dedication and diligence to her work in the Practical Nursing program. Several doctors who worked with her indicated they would hire her right on the spot. Her growth through the program along with genuine concern for her patients helped garner her this nomination from her peers.

The Spirit of Learning award was given to Saige Riehl who has shined this year in her studies, despite overcoming family difficulties and some bumps and bruises along the way. Throughout it all, she remained dedicated to her studies and won several scholarships as well.

Stephanie Nowaczyk was this year’s Employee of the Year and having this honour come from peers and students made it all the more meaningful. Nowaczyk is known for always being upbeat, building true connections with her students and always being the first to offer help, wherever it was needed.

This annual awards ceremony is a chance for this community to share their successes. It is a celebration for the campus, for Medicine Hat College, and for the City of Brooks.

Slenders points out, “Many MHC students have so much more than school going on in their lives. Family, work, health issues for themselves or their loved ones. We are happy to support all of our students, and hope that their time here will help bring them closer to their goals. This is an emotional day for many.”

Other awards given out included honour role, scholarships and program awards.

If you are interested in learning more about the programs available in Brooks visit www.mhc.ab.ca/BrooksCampus.