Northern Lakes College presents opportunities for individuals seeking to pursue their dreams and serve their communities through the advancement of accessible education. Lucille Labrecque, a former student-now-turned-governor on the College’s Board of Governors, exemplifies how advanced education readies alumni to play instrumental roles for future generations.

Lucille was introduced to Northern Lakes College when she enrolled in the Early Learning and Child Care program in 2015. At the time, she juggled her studies while working for Child and Family Services, conducting daycare inspections, and negotiating Early Intervention contracts across northern Alberta. The flexibility offered by the College's multiple campus locations, particularly those in in Fort Vermilion, High Level, McLennan, and Peace River, proved instrumental in accommodating Lucille's demanding travel schedule.

Reflecting on her experience, Lucille fondly recalls the opportunity to explore the different campuses and connect with fellow students and employees. "It was really fun to get to know the other campuses and the people there as I passed through different towns. I just thought, you know, this works out really good for me!" she shares.

Lucille was impressed with the College’s refreshing attitude towards working students. She found her program’s learning format highly compatible with her busy lifestyle, enabling her to excel academically. "Originally, I had attempted to take a program at a different college, but the format was so cumbersome, and it just really wasn’t a good fit. Then I switched over to Northern Lakes College. I was actually having fun learning, and I got great marks!" May 2016 she convocated with a Certificate in Early Learning and Child Care with Honours.

Lucille also appreciated the intimate learning environment fostered by the small class sizes at Northern Lakes College. "I really liked that I could write my exams right there at the College, and that the classes were small," she emphasizes. "The larger course projects we were assigned were also really fun and insightful."

Equipped with her education from Northern Lakes College, Lucille transitioned into a fulfilling career as the Mental Health Promotion Facilitator for Alberta Health Services. In this position, she coaches others in managing their wellness as individuals, family units, and as part of a community. She facilitates skill development strategies that promote mindfulness, resiliency, and emotional intelligence. Her works includes hosting community workshops on suicide prevention and emergency preparedness.

Now serving as a governor for Northern Lakes College, Lucille continues to champion the institution's mission of accessibility and empowerment. "Northern Lakes College is accessible to rural students: it’s everywhere in the north. I’m always promoting it because I really do think all people should have the opportunity to build a career in an area that brings them joy.”

Lucille's advice to aspiring students reflects her awareness of the importance of self-actualization: "Always finish what you start. It shows commitment that you’re willing to go to the end. Northern Lakes College can help you with that. Don’t give up. There’s always a way to accomplish your goals.”