(Fort McMurray, AB, May 23, 2025)  This week we were honoured to watch students from our region participate in the Traditional Celebration of Achievement on May 22, 2025. Approximately 117 Indigenous students in our area are receiving diplomas this year. 

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 2025. 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 immense pride and joy, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of you. Take this time to celebrate and fully embrace the moment. Always remember—this is your opportunity to make a lasting, positive impact on the world. That power lies within your hearts. Though we will deeply miss your presence in our halls and classrooms, we are incredibly proud to see you take the next step forward. May God bless you always.” - 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 2025! We believe in you and all that you are! You have many gifts and knowledge to share as you continue your journey. We are proud of who you’ve become and excited about who you’ll be!! God’s Blessings! - Kacey De Pape, Principal and Christa DeMerchant, Vice Principal, Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic High School

Congratulations to all Métis, First Nation and Inuit graduates in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo! On behalf of our Board of Trustees, we celebrate your hard work and success. Your dedication and 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 we 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 seen the Traditional Celebration of Achievement grow into a beautiful evening of recognition for our Indigenous graduates. It is truly an honour to be a small part of your educational journey. We look forward to hearing the stories of your future successes and the adventures that lie ahead." - 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!