Virtual Graduation for SERC Class of 2020: College Marks Student Success with Congratulatory Film
South Eastern Regional College’s (@S_ERC) Annual Graduation, one of the highlights of the College year, like many events across the world, has had to be adapted due to Covid-19. This year, student success, for Class of 2020, was recognised with a virtual graduation.
Gareth Heatherington, Chair of the Governing Body of SERC, addressed graduates, in a short film to mark the success of over 600 full-time and part-time students who have achieved higher level qualifications. He said,
“Without a doubt, the last few months have been challenging for everyone, but I hope that you are extremely proud of yourselves with the work and dedication you have put into achieving the results you have today. Know this, we are all immensely proud of you.
He added,
“Your course may have come to an end, but your education never will. You will continue to read books, learn from colleagues and your future careers will present many opportunities to learn new skills in the years ahead and we at SERC wish you every success on the voyage of discovery.
“SERC’s Higher Education courses have the same academic rigor and standards as universities. In addition, your courses all focus strongly on the skills you will need in the labour market and importantly in securing employment.”
Mr Hetherington acknowledged that the current crisis has created greater uncertainty for everyone, not least for those leaving education. He thanked the graduates and wished them luck as they take the next important steps for their career.
Mollie Richardson (19), from Lisburn, SERC Student Governor, congratulated all Higher Education students graduating this year. She said, “I hope you will look back on your time at SERC with fond memories.” She thanked both students and staff for their hard work and commitment in the last few months.
Ken Webb, Principal and Chief Executive of SERC, said,
“Graduation marks an important day in the lives of the hundreds of Higher Education students and I hope that each of you had an opportunity to mark your success with your family, or plan to do so, with family and friends, when restrictions are eased. I congratulate every student on their success. You have all worked hard, and your graduation is evidence of your commitment to your chosen career paths. I wish you continued future success. Never stop learning and striving to better yourselves.”
Whilst the film is not meant to replace traditional graduation, hopefully it will remind students of the friends they have made, and memories created throughout their studies at SERC.
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