Shelley Coburn, Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Political Science graduate, received Kwantlen’s President’s Outstanding Graduate Award for a bachelor's degree program at Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s 2010 Convocation ceremony held at its Surrey Campus.
This year’s award winner is a strong believer in the transformative power of education, and is literally taking that message to the street. Coburn is currently employed at Pacific Community Resources Society as a mobile street outreach worker where she works with at-risk youth.
"I strongly believe that education is the great equalizer”, Coburn says, “and that no one should be excluded on the basis of arbitrary forces. Kwantlen serves people that have traditionally faced exclusion.”
Coburn is planning on pursuing graduate studies, likely in the fields of social justice and policy development.
“Education is the key that unlocks doors for people and allows them to have opportunities. I know that my education has bettered my life, and the lives of my children, the people around me, and the people I serve.”
Coburn is still an active member of the Kwantlen Presidential Ambassador’s Team and is an active volunteer in the community. She graduated with distinction from the Bachelor of Arts with a double minor in philosophy and political science.
Presented annually, this award encourages Kwantlen students to excel in their chosen fields of study and to participate in university, student and community activities to the benefit of others. Recipients have completed all their study in one program at Kwantlen; have consistently shown outstanding ability in the field; have contributed in a significant way to Kwantlen or community affairs; and may be recommended by faculty.
As a leader in innovative and interdisciplinary education, Kwantlen Polytechnic University offers all learners, regardless of background and preparation, opportunities to achieve the highest standards of academic performance. For more information, visit: kwantlen.ca
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