THUNDER BAY – Students from the Thunder Bay campus were the first to receive certificates, diplomas and honourary diplomas at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium during Confederation College’s graduation ceremonies.
President Pat Lang spoke to a capacity crowd in the morning and afternoon convocations. “Graduation is definitely one of my most cherished duties as President,” said Lang. “Seeing the excitement and pride of each student, their family and friends, is most gratifying and serves to remind me why I chose a career in education.”
Two honourary diplomas were also conferred during the afternoon ceremony. Chief Pelletier of the Red Rock Indian Band was awarded an honourary diploma in Business Administration as well as Jack Masters, who received an honourary diploma in General Arts and Science.
The Red Rock Indian Band Chief Pierre Pelletier was born in Nipigon, Ontario and graduated from Nip-Rock High School. Recognized as a highly skilled hockey player, he was awarded a full hockey scholarship to the University of Wisconsin – Superior and continued to play senior league hockey on the Canadian west coast.
In 1978, Pierre began working in the logging business that eventually led to the start of a career in logging and his own very successful forest operations company, 4Ks Logging, that he began in 1985.
Pierre Pelletier was elected Chief of the Red Rock Indian Band in 2005 and has worked, and continues to work, energetically with his community to return the Band to economic viability. Under his tenure, the Red Rock Indian Band purchased Heath Park School in Thunder Bay, and is managing the Elks Hall in Nipigon, and a union office building in Red Rock. Chalet Lodge, a former tourist operation, has also been acquired and is being renovated.
Chief Pelletier has built, and continues to build, partnerships with organizations that will help sustain and grow the community. He is an outspoken advocate, leader, mentor and friend within northwestern Ontario and consistently promotes the advancement of all aboriginal people, activity and community.
Nipigon is about 60 kms east of Thunder Bay.