VACC Adult Learners Invited to Verdun City Hall, Win Bursaries
by Julie Liebman
Last February 10, 10 VACC adult students were invited to join adult learners from other local schools for an afternoon or recognition at the Verdun City Hall.
A VACC Tradition
In its 21st edition, the Verdun Adult Learners Day welcomed 70 students from 9 schools and community organizations to its city hall to celebrate and recognize their perseverance and dedication to finding a new career.
This year, 10 students from VACC were nominated by their teacher. Each received a certificate of merit and three won a bursary. They were also invited to sign the City Hall guestbook.
The annual event coincided with Hooked on School Week.
“The nominated students were chosen based on their grit and determination and much dedication to their studies, program, and their centre,” explains Michael Clark, Centre Director.
VACC was the only English centre in the area to be invited to participate. Michael Clark, VACC Centre Director, Emma Bryans, Assistant Director, and Mavis Teye, Guidance Counselor were on hand to encourage their students.
A Touching Testimonial
Jessica Cormier, one of VACC’s Residential and Commercial Drafting students, delivered an extremely touching testimonial about her journey to becoming an adult learner.
“Before applying to the Residential and Commercial Drafting program at VACC, I was unsure about my future. One day, a close friend registered for the program. Soon after, I sent out my application and was accepted on my birthday!” explained Jessica.
“Everyone feels like family at VACC. One of my passion projects would be to help with the restoration of my old Allion Elementary. I am extremely thankful to my peers, teachers, and to our centre director for their encouragement and friendship,” she says.
Michael Clark is extremely proud of the VACC nominees. “This event demonstrates the courage, strength, and resilience of what it is to be an adult learner. I am continuously impressed with our students for making such a commitment to their education while dealing with the adversity, challenges, and hardships they experience along the way.”
Safak Eran-Tasker, SARCA Counselor who coordinated the event, is equally enthusiastic. “I am extremely proud of our students and their dedication to lifelong learning. Adult learners are continuously working to better their lives and those of their family,” she says.
Congratulations to all the nominees and bursary recipients!
Plumbing and Heating
Kaléel Baptiste: Bursary recipient
Sean Faucher: Bursary recipient
Residential and Commercial Drafting
Mahgameh Lavafi
Jessica Cormier
General Building Maintenance
Sophianne Côté: Bursary recipient
Geng Jin
IT Support
Bhawna Bhawna
Todor Dachev
Professional Sales
Harshpreet Kaur
Amandeep Singh
