Great Plains College presents ABE Persistence Awards
By Joan Janzen
Great Plains College Adult Basic Education (ABE) staff and students came together Jan. 28 to celebrate the ABE Persistence Awards. Zevyn Theisen received a certificate and $1,500, while Kylie Wildman received a certificate and $750.
The awards recognize the perseverance and determination of full-time students enrolled in Adult 10, CAEC, Grade 12, upgrading and essential skills programs at Great Plains College. Several students applied, and the recipients were selected by program co-ordinator Ethan Hill-O’Driscoll, along with the student adviser and information officer.
Zevyn Theisen received an ABE Persistence Award at Great Plains College’s Jan. 28 awards ceremony. Kylie Wildman was also a recipient but was unable to attend. Program co-ordinator Ethan Hill-O’Driscoll is pictured at left, along with student adviser Gloria Vielhauer. PHOTO SUPPLIED
Kindersley ABE staff and students. PHOTO SUPPLIED
Zevyn Theisen and Brad Mahon (President and CEO of Great Plains College). PHOTO SUPPLIED
“These awards are not about perfection; they are about showing up, moving forward and refusing to give up,” Hill-O’Driscoll said.
Theisen and Wildman delivered their acceptance speeches via recorded video during the awards ceremony, expressing gratitude for the recognition and the opportunities it provides. Wildman shared personal reflections on her time at Great Plains College.
“School has been something I’ve struggled with for as long as I can remember, and deciding to continue my education as an adult was not easy, but I’m incredibly glad that I did,” she said. “The staff made coming to school feel less overwhelming, and their encouragement and understanding have made a lasting difference for me.”
The ABE Persistence Award honours students who continue their education while navigating significant barriers, including financial challenges, family responsibilities, health concerns or previous academic struggles. As part of the nomination process, students submitted a written reflection describing the obstacles they have faced, how they continue to persevere and their goals for the future.
“The award makes me feel seen for the effort it took to keep going, even when things felt overwhelming, and it motivates me to continue moving forward,” Wildman said.