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Red River College Polytech students from the Steinbach campus celebrated their accomplishments at their convocation on June 26.
The Southeast Event Centre was filled with family, friends, RRC staff, and special guests for the graduation ceremony.
Local leaders, including MP Ted Falk and Mayor Earl Funk, were in attendance to congratulate the class, and RRC alumnus Richard Rivard shared his inspiring story, highlighting his path from student to healthcare leader.
Regional Campus Manager Sheri Stoupe says it was a truly special day.
“On behalf of all the faculty and staff here at RRC Polytech Steinbach campus, I want to extend my warmest congratulations to the graduating class of 2025.”
The campus is celebrating its largest graduating class ever, with 119 students earning their diplomas and certificates. 79 of them attended the convocation.
“That number speaks not just to their growth, but to their incredible drive, commitment, and the belief that education changes lives. We are so proud of them. They’ve worked hard. They’ve made sacrifices. They’ve balanced studies, jobs, families, and life’s challenges, and they’ve crossed the finish line. This moment is theirs, and they’ve earned it,” Stoupe says.
She adds that the staff look forward to this day every year.
“A day filled with joy, pride, and hope for the future. Because we know that they’re not just walking across this stage, they’re stepping into their futures as professionals, innovators, and leaders. Whether they stay in this community or take their talents beyond Steinbach and surrounding area, they will make a difference.”
As students prepare for the next steps, whether continuing their education or entering the workforce, Stoupe leaves them with a meaningful message.
“Keep chasing those dreams. Set bold goals. And never stop believing in yourself. The future is yours to shape.”
For health care aide graduate Samantha Farrell, the feeling of accomplishment is amazing.
“I am a single mom of two beautiful kids, and aside from them, this is my biggest accomplishment. I celebrated my 40th birthday during practicum and now here I am, cap and gown. I'm so excited.”
Farrell says her motivation to return to school came from her daughter.
“She is currently a student at the University of Manitoba, and she looked at me and she said, ‘Mom, if I can do it, you can do it’. So, she is my hero and going through the course and the assignments, the reports, all of that, she was my support, and thanks to her, I'm here.”
Now working at Bethesda Regional Health Centre, Farrell says she couldn’t be happier with her career choice.
“I love my job, I love the patients, I love family of patients, I love my team, and I'm happy I chose this career, it's what I was made to do.”
Looking back, Farrell says she truly enjoyed her time in the program, and one instructor stood out.
“Susan, I love you, girl. You are probably the best instructor I've ever had. She was supportive, she was encouraging, and she brought fun to the course.”
Farrell also has fond memories of her classmates.
“The fall class, you guys were amazing to do labs with, to work with. And thank you for putting up with me while we were studying because I kind of was the comic relief and mom to the younger students.”
For anyone considering a different path, Farrell offers simple but strong advice:
“If you're looking for a new career, it doesn't matter your age, do it!”