SKC students cross the finish line
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PABLO – More than two hundred graduates crossed the stage during the 2017 Commencement Ceremony at Salish Kootenai College on Saturday.
Yamncut Drum group played an honor song as graduates filled the chairs in front of the stage. Many graduates wore shawls, vests or regalia with their graduation caps. Faculty and administration followed the graduates.
SKC Board of Directors Chair Jim Durglo expressed thanks for the gift of education and the elders.
SKC President Sandra Boham told the students that she understands that their journey hasn’t been easy, but they finished, and she congratulated them.
Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribal Council Member Dennis Clairmont welcomed the students on behalf of the tribe. “Education is something to cherish,” he said.
The 2017 Student of the Year, Robin Maxkii, said that she developed friendships at the college that encouraged her to keep going and make it to graduation day, but that graduates won’t always have people around for support. “Believe in yourself and your intelligence because you have proof of that,” she said.
The Commencement Address was given by 2007 SKC graduate Jason Smith. He credits the college with helping him to get a job as the State Director of Indian Affairs for the Montana Governor’s Office. “Doors opened because of the education I received at the college,” he said.
SKC Vice President Dan Durglo presented the Teacher of the Year award. This year Danica Luedtke and Jennifer Hoff were awarded for their work as dental assistant instructors.
Jeanne Christopher was presented with an honorary degree from the college for her 42 years of work with CSKT Head Start.
After the graduates crossed the stage to receive their diplomas, the ceremony finished with a closing prayer and an honor song.
