It promises to be a day rich in memories, anecdotes and powerful emotions.
When Portage College alumni reunite in the gym on Friday, September 14, they will bring a collective educational experience spanning more than five decades.
Perhaps some will recall the College’s humble beginnings from portable classrooms in Lac La Biche – a far cry from today’s seven campuses spread across northern Alberta.
The reunion has been hailed a signature occasion in the College’s 50th anniversary celebrations this year. It will bring together not only former students, but also employees, board members and founders.
“It will be a great opportunity for people to meet others they have not seen in years while learning about the history and future of the college,” said Jaime Davies, College manager of corporate communications.
She said alumni had until August 20 to fill in online forms confirming whether they would be coming. Meanwhile, some have already been contacted to write about their College experiences; their stories will be available at the reunion in the form of booklets. There will also be a montage of historical photos on display.
“One thing I’d like to highlight is that with the stories collected this year and with historical images and content, we will be creating a 50th anniversary booklet,” said Davies. “At the event you can sign up to be on the list if you’re interested in purchasing the limited edition book that we’ll put together in 2019.”
The Alumni Event will run from 7pm to 10pm and probably feature speeches from alumni about each decade at the College, which now has campuses in Cold Lake, St. Paul, Boyle, Frog Lake, Saddle Lake and Goodfish Lake. A lengthy list of those receiving honours includes alumni, College presidents, board chairmen and First Nation and Métis founders – Lawrence Spence, William Erasmus, Veronica Pruden (Morin) and Raymonde Harpe. Omer Moghrabi, Lac La Biche County Mayor, is expected to be among the special guests.
Earlier that day, there will be a “Free Spirit of Community Conference” (1pm-4), open to the public, and a free barbeque, starting at 4pm, with cake afterwards.
“We will have drummers and there will also be tours throughout the day for the museum and of the various programs we offer at the College,” said Davies.
Coming up for 50
The College is also planning a #PortageGivesBack Volunteer Initiative between September 17 and 21. The aim is for students and staff to engage with the community. Employees will have four hours to carry out community projects either as a group or with students, or individually.
Other celebratory events through the week include: September 15 – Voyageur Games and Jamboree; September 19 – Music in the Park at McArthur Park; September 21 – Drive-in movie at Bold Center; and September 22 – Canoe Fest “welcome back” concert at the Bold Center featuring rockers Prism, Lee Aaron and Honeymoon Suite.
