RDP Student Receives 2024 Governor General’s Academic Medal

Having earned a GPA of 4.0 during the 2023/2024 academic year, Catrina Amendt received the Governor General’s Academic Medal (Collegiate Bronze Level) at Red Deer Polytechnic’s 60th Convocation Ceremonies. This honour is awarded to a graduate with the highest grade point average.

Catrina decided to pursue the Social Work Diploma program at RDP to elevate her knowledge, skills and community impact.

In conjunction with past work experience in the human services field, Catrina believed this credential at the Polytechnic would prepare her to assist more individuals, challenge barriers and advocate for social change.  

While earning the two-year diploma, Catrina appreciated the smaller class sizes at RDP which fostered greater connections and collaborations with peers and instructors. These experiences helped to increase learning and create more opportunities for personal growth.  

While Catrina had several memorable moments throughout her time at the Polytechnic, she is proud of speaking at a Red Deer City Council meeting, advocating for vulnerable populations in the community. 

Catrina, who is from Hepburn, Saskatchewan, is grateful for the community of people who supported her throughout her educational journey. In particular, she appreciates the roles that her parents, grandparents, friends and mentors played in helping her achieve her goals.  

Catrina is currently leveraging her social work education to support youth and young adults who have been exploited.  

As she looks to the future, Catrina will complement her current knowledge and experiences with further credentials to prepare for a career in social work at the provincial or federal government levels. Eventually, Catrina may pursue a master’s degree with a focus on the justice system. 

Catrina was among more than 800 of 1,853 graduates who attended RDP’s historic 60th Convocation Ceremonies in the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre on June 7. 

View our recap of the celebration