Keyano 60th Anniversary

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Celebrating 60 Years of Learning and Community 

K60th logoeyano College proudly celebrates 60 incredible years of learning, leadership, and community spirit. Since opening its doors in 1965 as the Alberta Vocational Centre and officially becoming Keyano College on May 9, 1975, our institution has been rooted in a powerful mission: to uplift northern Albertans by equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world. 

alberta vocational centreBefore 1965, the people of Northern Alberta, many of whom relied on hunting, trapping, and fishing, faced an economic shift driven by the rise of the Oil Sands industry. As J.W. Shields, our first Principal, wrote in 1966: "The economic boom in Fort McMurray is destroying an old way of life, and many men find themselves with skills no longer useful to them if they wish to remain and compete in this area's economy." 

The Alberta Vocational Centre set out to accept all learners willing to grow from just three Atco trailers, offering hands-on trade training and academic upgrading. By the time of its grand opening in 1966, 76 full-time trainees were enrolled, with 43 in residence — many from remote communities as far as Fort Vermilion and Pincher Creek.

ceremonial chain cutting

Eighty percent of the first students were Indigenous or Métis, underscoring a commitment to access and inclusion that remains central to our mission today. The first graduating class — 13 welders — completed their program the same week as the grand opening. A ceremonial chain-cutting with a welding torch marked the occasion in a nod to their work. 

As we honour this legacy, we're excited to announce a series of initiatives that celebrate our past while investing in the future.

 

60 Students for 60 Years

To celebrate Keyano College's 60th anniversary, the Keyano Board of Governors Local Leaders Entrance Award will recognize sixty exceptional local students for their dedication and commitment to the Wood Buffalo community. This recognition is awarded to individuals who represent the Wood Buffalo region through activities such as extracurricular pursuits, volunteer work, military service, or community initiatives and is given in the form of a $1,000 education voucher, usable for tuition, books, or other eligible expenses.

 Eligibility Criteria
  • Must be a resident of Wood Buffalo for a minimum of 1 year. 
  • Must be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident of Canada, or, if a local international high school graduate, have parents or caregivers who are alumni of Keyano College. 
  • Must be entering the first year of full-time study in an eligible program.
  • Must be attending post-secondary education for the first time.
  • Must demonstrate local participation in activities representing the region positively, including, but not limited to, military services (including cadet programs), secondary school programs, extracurricular excellence, civic leadership, community service, and/or volunteer work.

Apply Now

 

Community BBQ Celebration 

We're inviting everyone to come together for a Community BBQ this September! It will be a fun, family-friendly afternoon filled with great food, live music, activities, and plenty of opportunities to reconnect and celebrate 60 years of memories. Alumni, students, families, and friends — this day is for you.  Stay tuned to Keyano's Facebook and LinkedIn accounts for more details! 

Date: September 6, 2025

Location: Doug MacRae Park

 

distinguished alumni with president and board chairExpanded Alumni Recognition Program

As part of our 60th anniversary celebrations, Keyano College is proud to launch a new Alumni Awards Program to recognize and honour outstanding graduates who have made a lasting impact in their professions, communities, and beyond. From rising stars to community champions, these awards will celebrate the incredible accomplishments of our alumni—past, present, and future. Nominations open May 6, 2025. 

 Awards and Criteria
  • The Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes the accomplishments of a Keyano College graduate who brings a legacy of excellence to college. This esteemed honour recognizes former students who have influenced their communities, excelled in their professional fields, and positively impacted the lives of others.  
  • The Rising Star Award recognizes a Keyano College graduate under the age of 40 who has demonstrated leadership and significant contributions to an area of expertise early in their profession or other endeavours. The recipient will have shown significant success at an early age or in a new industry. 
  • The Volunteer Service Award recognizes a Keyano College graduate who has demonstrated a spirit of volunteerism and community service through active, unpaid involvement in and contributions to his or her community and/or at Keyano College.
  • The Future Alumni Award recognizes the leadership, service and potential of a current Keyano College student who has completed a minimum of 15 course credits at Keyano College. The recipient of this award will have demonstrated academic excellence and substantial contributions to his or her community or career while balancing the demands of student life. (Nominations for this award will only be accepted from Keyano staff/faculty/CUPE/SAKC.) 
  • The Honorary Alumnus Award: This category encompasses non-alumni. Keyano may recognize an individual who has made significant contributions to the Keyano community. (Nominations for this award will only be accepted from Keyano staff/faculty/CUPE/SAKC)

Submit a Nomination

 

 

gala announcement

Gala 2025 - Diamond Masquerade 

This year's Keyano Gala promises to be an unforgettable night of elegance, mystery, and music –all in celebration of a sparkling milestone. In honour of Keyano College’s 60th anniversary, we invite you to the Diamond Masquerade, a black-tie evening during which guests are encouraged to add a touch of sparkle and intrigue with their finest masquerade masks. The diamond, a symbol of strength and endurance, reflects both the legacy and the bright future of our institution.  

As Keyano’s largest annual fundraiser, the Gala plays a vital role in supporting student success and educational excellence in our region.  

We're thrilled to announce that Trooper, one of Canada's most iconic rock bands, will headline the evening's entertainment, with talented country artist Tyler Whelan opening the show. 

Gala tickets will go on sale in July 2025 — we can't wait to welcome the community to our signature event of the year. 

Find out more about Gala 2025