A ribbon was cut last week to mark the grand opening of Parkland College’s new Kamsack Training Centre.
Over the summer, the College had moved from its former location at Crowstand Centre to the Kamsack Shopping Plaza on First Street.
During a reception on September 28, when Brendan Wagner of the College served as emcee, the opening was celebrated with remarks from Terry Dennis, Canora-Pelly MLA; Dwayne Reeve, president of the College, and testimonials from five students.
The reception began with a prayer by Elder Francis Bird, who explained that all people pray to the one All Mighty, and he asked for good will, for continued training for further education and for wellbeing.
“I’ve always believed that the College in Kamsack provides a good opportunity,” Dennis said, adding that with the training locally, one may then start a career and continue to live here.
“Hats off to the College,” he said, commending efforts to maintain the College’s presence in the community. “It’s great for the people in the area. Congratulations.”
“Our new home in Kamsack allows us to better meet the needs of adult learners in this area,” Reeve said. “It has a great layout and is more student-friendly, which will help enhance the learning experience here.”
Reeve introduced College board members Lydia Cyr (the chair), and Leonard Keshane and Sally Bishop of the Kamsack area.
Saying the Kamsack branch of the College is meeting the needs of the people, he commended Dennis for being a strong supporter of education and recognized Logan Stevens Construction for having worked on the renovations.
“We’re pleased this day has come,” Reeve said, adding that in this building there is space with potential and said that with increased visibility the College will become a more important part of the community.
Students and teachers deserve a good learning environment, he said. There is opportunity to expand to post-secondary education for which there is a strong need.
Reeve said he was pleased to say that the construction had been accomplished without capital funds from government.
“Welcome to our new home!”
“This is a second opportunity to obtain education,” said Felicia Severight, the first of five students to speak. “Education is a privilege, not a right, so grab it while it’s available.”
Severight commended the College for accepting her application.
Dionne Shingoose, said being able to attend the College in Kamsack has changed her future, which before now had been limited.
“Now, more doors are opening,” she said, adding that she is now learning and re-learning.
She thanked the College staff for the opportunity.
Emil Cote too thanked the College for having accepted his application so that now he is learning essential living skills.
It has opened doors to what can be accomplished, he said, thanking the College for the new classrooms.
Tyra Stevenson commented on the larger space, the lounge and the reception area, all of which are wheelchair accessible.
This place is brighter and bigger, she said thanking the College “for giving me the opportunity to achieve Grade 12.”
This is a huge opportunity in Kamsack, Erin Holmgrin, said, adding that she would otherwise have had to attend classes in Yorkton.
“This is an opportunity to re-build my life and build confidence,” she said, thanking her instructors.
The Kamsack Training Centre delivers adult basic education and high school upgrading classes, along with essential skills training, said a release from the college. Between 50 and 60 students are enrolled in the classes in Kamsack.
Guests at the grand opening toured the 4,200-square-foot facility which includes three large classrooms, a spacious common area and office and storage space.
“Parkland College is committed to helping our region and our province prosper,” Reeve said. “It all starts with education and training, so residents can pursue a career and build a better life."
Parkland College provides high quality, learner-centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success, the release said. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services.
Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates, it said. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.
“Parkland College is proud to be one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2017.”
