Historical milestone reached by Saskatchewan Polytechnic with degree grads

Photo credit: Saskatchewan Polytechnic.
Photo credit: Saskatchewan Polytechnic.

First degree graduates of Bachelor of Psychiatric Nursing program convocate Friday

June 17, 2015 - Two students will graduate from Saskatchewan Polytechnic's first degree program, the Bachelor of Psychiatric Nursing, at the Regina Campus convocation ceremony on June 19.

The Bachelor of Psychiatric Nursing degree is designed for working registered psychiatric nurses. It focuses on the advanced education of psychiatric nurses in the delivery of quality mental health care and services to clients with increasingly complex needs, helping prepare them for roles related to leadership and management, education and research. Students study on a part-time basis, taking one or two courses at a time through distance learning, with a clinical practicum.

"This is a momentous milestone in our transformation from a technical institute to a polytechnic," says Dr. Larry Rosia, president and CEO. "The Bachelor of Psychiatric Nursing degree is the first of many degrees from Saskatchewan Polytechnic that will provide students with an applied education to meet the needs of employers in Saskatchewan."

Both of the degree program's graduates, Veronick Perrault Finch and Amanda Rowley, were in the first graduating class of the new diploma in psychiatric nursing in 2010.

"Our education is unique and allows nurses to work with those with mental health challenges and developmental delays," says Sue Myers, program head, Psychiatric Nursing and Bachelor of Psychiatric Nursing degree programs. "It is strongly believed that nurses who are educated with mental health education are in the best position to serve clients with mental health needs."

Other students and alumni will be recognized at the convocation for industry development, community building and academic achievement. Kelly Abrams, Saskatchewan Polytechnic advisory committee chair and vice-president of the Canadian College of Health Information Management, will receive an honorary diploma for her contributions to the education and promotion of health information management professionals. The outstanding Citizenship Award will be given to Michelle Rapitta from the Practical Nursing Program for community building. Martina Anaquod will be recognized with the Governor General's Academic Medal for the highest average in the Regina Campus Grade 12 class.

A total of 350 graduates will be participating in the ceremony on Friday afternoon, representing 37 Saskatchewan Polytechnic certificate and diploma programs, the Bachelor of Psychiatric Nursing, Adult 12 and the Faculty Certificate Program. The ceremonies will livestream at www.saskpolytech.ca/convocation.

Media are encouraged to attend the convocation ceremony.

Date: Friday, June 19, 2015
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Location: Conexus Arts Centre in the Shumiatcher Theatre, 200 Lakeshore Drive, Regina, SK

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Printable media release (pdf)

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