We’re looking forward to celebrating the Class of 2026 with families, faculty, staff and community members at its 62nd Convocation taking place on June 5. More than 1,080 RDP graduates from 2026 will attend the morning and afternoon ceremonies in the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre, marking the largest graduating class in the Polytechnic’s history.
This year, Red Deer Polytechnic will be granting an Honorary Bachelor of Arts in Multidisciplinary Studies Degree to both Randy Ermineskin and Dianne Finstad Harder at the Convocation ceremonies. The prestigious honorary degrees recognize individuals who have made an outstanding social, cultural, or economic contribution locally, provincially and nationally.
Ermineskin is a lifelong educator and leader dedicated to strengthening Indigenous communities. A former Ermineskin Cree Nation Chief, President of Yellowhead Tribal College and Treaty Six Grand Chief, he has championed education and Treaty rights for decades. Now pursuing doctoral studies, he continues to advance Indigenous led learning. His guidance to Red Deer Polytechnic has shaped conversations on reconciliation, governance and community partnership, reflecting his commitment to mentorship and educational empowerment. rdpolytech.ca/news/randy-ermineskin-2026-honorary-degree-recipient
Finstad Harder has spent more than 40 years elevating rural Alberta’s stories through trusted, award‑winning agricultural and rodeo reporting. Raised on a ranch in Manyberries, Alberta, she built a distinguished broadcasting career with CKRD and programs like “This Business of Farming” and “Makin’ 8”. A mentor and post‑secondary contributor, she has shaped public understanding of Western heritage. Her celebrated work reflects RDP’s values of community, applied learning and uplifting others. rdpolytech.ca/news/dianne-finstad-harder-2026-honorary-degree-recipient
Since 2014, Red Deer Polytechnic has bestowed Honorary Degrees to 17 individuals, including Ermineskin and Finstad Harder.
Read the full story here: https://rdpolytech.ca/news/rdp-ready-celebrate-graduates-2026-convocation-ceremonies
