Governor General Award winner Bailey Pilgrim, NWP President and CEO Dr. Vanessa Sheane and Governor General Award winner Vichelle Uy
For the second year in a row, students from Northwestern Polytechnic's Fairview and Grande Prairie campuses have been awarded the Governor General's Academic Medal.
The annual honour is a long-standing tradition, dating back to 1873, when Canada's third Governor General created the award to inspire students across Canada to strive for academic excellence. To this day, it continues to be one of the most prestigious awards that Canadian students can receive.
"It is truly wonderful to see our students being recognized for their exemplary efforts," said NWP President and CEO, Dr. Vanessa Sheane. "Not only have these individuals found a personally rewarding academic pathway, but they are also excelling in their field."
This year's award recipients, Bailey Pilgrim - from the Animal Health Technology program and Vichelle Uy - from the Business Administration diploma program - both have exhibited academic excellence, achieving the highest average at their respective campuses upon program graduation.
For Bailey Pilgrim, the Animal Health Technology diploma program at NWP was an ideal fit. Animals have always had a place in her heart, so joining a program with a great reputation and clear emphasis on hands-on experience was a huge draw.
Throughout the 2-year Animal Health Technology program, Bailey enjoyed learning about the various facets of animal care from passionate instructors in an unmatched teaching immersive environment at NWP's Fairview Campus.
"Having the opportunity to acquire animal health skills and knowledge right on the working farm was an incredible experience," said Bailey. "With everything I have learned, I know I am well-qualified to provide really great care to animals".
Now with her qualification complete, Bailey plans to build on the momentum of her diploma and pursue Veterinary Medicine in the near future. Receiving the Governor General Award is a timely reminder that the journey is worth it, and that hard work really does pay off.
As for advice to others, Bailey highlights the benefits of connecting with your campus community. "Creating relationships with your instructors and your peer groups can really help with your success," Bailey said.
Vichelle Uy, Governor General Awardee from NWP's Grande Prairie Campus agrees.
"The Instructors at NWP are so eager to help their students," said Vichelle. "Whenever I was struggling, they were always available to help."
Vichelle completed NWP's Business Administration diploma program with a focus in Accounting. Originally from the Philippines, she moved to Canada more than five years ago with the goal of securing a better life for her family and herself.
Vichelle, a qualified engineer, enrolled in NWP's Business Administration diploma program hoping to facilitate a career change and that's exactly how it played out.
After graduating, Vichelle began working at Mainline Construction as a junior accountant. She credits NWP's Business Administration program for unlocking so many opportunities and providing her with the skills to advance a career she truly loves. The Governor General Medal is an added bonus.
"I am absolutely honoured," Vichelle said. "Receiving this award gave me a huge sense of accomplishment after putting in so much effort towards my studies."
Vichelle is an accomplished learner who offers the following guidance to new students.
"Figure out the best way that you learn. Once you know that and then improve upon it over time, you will thrive. Don't forget to focus on your goals."
Goal oriented achievers - two defining characteristics of this year's Governor General Award recipients and Wolfpack leaders, Bailey Pilgrim and Vichelle Uy.
