Lakeland College has cancelled their convocation ceremonies due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

In a statement, President and CEO Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart says they are exploring alternatives to celebrate the Class of 2020’s academic career. Convocation was scheduled for May 28 at the Lloydminster campus and June 4 at the Vermilion campus.

“This was a difficult decision to make, but the socially responsible one given the times we are in.”

All on-campus Lakeland events until the end of August have been cancelled and the post-secondary will proceed with a blended offering of firefighter training in late July with academic studies beginning in the fall.

Wainwright-Stewart also notes the college has loaned four wheelchairs and 14 hospital beds to the Lloydminster hospital. They’ve also donated supplies to seniors’ homes in Vegreville and Two Hills.

She says Facilities, Farm and Research teams will be taking care of buildings, animals and crops during the summer.

“I am proud of how everyone is supporting one another with empathy and understanding – our Lakeland community never ceases to amaze me.”