(Fort McMurray, AB, June 18, 2024)  This week we were honoured to watch students from our region participate in the Traditional Celebration of Achievement on June 17, 2024. Approximately 125 Indigenous students in our area are receiving diplomas this year, almost 100 were able to cross the stage at Keyano Theatre last evening. 

The Traditional Celebration of Achievement (TCOA) recognizes and honours First Nations, Metis, and Inuit (FNMI) graduates of the Wood Buffalo region. Students from Fort McMurray, Fort Chipewyan, Fort McKay, Anzac, Janvier, and Conklin were all recognized. The inaugural TCOA was held in 1998. 

“Congratulations to the graduating class of 2024 This is such an exciting time and I am honoured to celebrate with our Indigenous students at TCOA. On behalf of the staff at Holy Trinity CHS, we wish you a wonderful future. God Bless you!” - Lou Ann Demers-Noble, Holy Trinity Catholic High School Principal 

“It is with a great amount of pride and pleasure that we wish each of you a heartfelt congratulations! Revel in this moment and take the time to rejoice. Please also remember that now is your time and your chance to change the world for the better. You have that ability deep in your hearts. While we will miss seeing you in our hallways and classrooms, please be assured in the knowledge that we are tremendously proud to see you move forward. God Bless you all.” - Lisa Miller, Father Mercredi High School Principal 

It is an honour to celebrate the achievements of our Indigenous Graduates at TCOA. Congratulations to our Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic High School graduating class of 2024! We believe in you and all that you are! You have many gifts and knowledge to share as you continue your journey. We are very proud of you! God’s Blessings! - Kacey De Pape, Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic High School Principal

“On behalf of our Board of Trustees, we would like to congratulate all First Nations, Métis and Inuit students in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo for your dedication, hard work, and success. Your achievements are an inspiration to us at Fort McMurray Catholic Schools. We would like to thank you and your loved ones for entrusting your education journey to our Division, and look forward to hearing of your future accomplishments. May God, the Creator, bless you and guide you.”  - Cathie Langmead, Board Chair, Fort McMurray Catholic Schools

“From such humble beginnings we’ve witnessed the Traditional Celebration of Achievement grow to be this wonderful evening of recognition for our Indigenous graduates. It is an honour to be a small part of their educational journey. We look forward to hearing the stories of your future success and new adventures.” - Natasha MacArthur-Poole, Superintendent, Fort McMurray Catholic Schools 

Thank you to all of the organizers on the TCOA committee. It is inspiring to see these students cross the stage each year and know the opportunities available to them. We at Fort McMurray Catholic Schools are pleased to be a part of their success.

Congratulations Graduates!