Jones addresses college grads

The Bay St. George Campus of College of the North Atlantic held its spring convocation last week. On hand to deliver a convocation address to students was Opposition Leader Yvonne Jones, an alumna of the school's journalism program.

Ms. Jones is the province's first female opposition leader and also the first Metis woman to be elected to a role politics in the province.

In her speech, Ms. Jones told the graduates how proud she was to see so many of them.

"I look out this morning and what I see is an image of hope, an image of aspiration, accomplishment and success," she told graduates.

Ms. Jones attended the school, then known as West Viking College, over 20 years ago. She said at that time, and as it does today, Stephenville has much to offer a student, both academically and through life experience.

She said when she attended school in Stephenville she volunteered at the women's centre. It was there that she had a chance to meet some of the province's greatest female leaders, like Joyce Hancock who was instrumental in bringing about many positive changes for females in the province.

Ms. Jones highlighted the importance of challenging oneself and standing up for what you believe in and noted when one starts out on a career path it can lead to uncertain places.

She advised students to set goals for themselves, work towards them and to recognize career opportunities when they present themselves.

"Do not be afraid to take risks," she said.

The Bay St. George campus of College of the North Atlantic graduated 187 students last week.

reporter@thegeorgian.ca