Native Communications program finished at Grant MacEwan

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The Native Communications program in Edmonton has graduated such students as Jimmy Herman, Dale Auger, Ed Burnstick Sr. and several others who have gone on to careers in broadcast journalism, newspaper reporting, or the entertainment industry. However this year's course at Grant MacEwan College in Edmonton is the last. Earlier this year the college announced it was cutting its one-year programs.

"Since the course was a one-year program, the college decided to cut it," said Jane Woodward, chair of the program. "We do not think that this will be the last communications course in Edmonton. We are still in the process of looking at maybe having NAIT pick it up," she said.

Former students, this year's graduates, their families and instructors attended the April 29 dinner and presentations.

Keynote speaker Jimmy Herman addressed the students with words of wisdom.

"I'm glad that I took the Native Communications course. Since then I have met a lot of people. When I first came to Grant MacEwan I began to carve out a life for myself. Until then I was an alcoholic and a drug addict. When other people said that I could not do it, this program gave me a chance to be who I am today," said Herman. "We can achieve anything we want to achieve. Although you are students graduating today, it is only the beginning. When I first began the program little did I know where it would take me. I have to admit that it took me all around the world. I have to say that I literally came from skidrow and went to Hollywood. The proudest moment of my life was when I attended the premiere of Dances With Wolves. In my heart I'd like to thank a few people for being there for me such as Ed Bellrose, the late Ed Burnstick, and others. I'd also like to thank the Creator," he said.

During the ceremony, former student, the late Ed Burnstick Sr., was honored by the students. Burnstick passed away in December 1999. Emotions rang high as each of the students read several postcards that he'd mailed to the classes over the years. Some of the cards were from as far away as Switzerland and Asia. Many of the students described how Burnstick influenced their commitment to complete the program. Jane Woodward was also presented with momentos from the students.