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Hairstyling graduate Emily Davies-Arneson, left, and practical nursing graduate Deanna Bendig both received awards in today's SaskPolytechnic graduation ceremony. (Image Credit: Submitted/Sask. Polytechnic)
Graduation Day

Sask Polytech award winners reflect on growth, leadership at Prince Albert convocation 

Jun 16, 2026 | 4:55 PM

More than 660 students are marking a major milestone as they graduate from Saskatchewan Polytechnic this year, with Prince Albert campus award recipients including practical nursing graduate Deanna Bendig and hairstyling graduate Emily Davies-Arneson.  

Bendig, who graduated from the practical nursing program, received the Outstanding Citizenship Award. She said studying in Prince Albert made it possible to complete the two-year program while raising her children.  

“It was really convenient for me as a mom of two to have a school in Prince Albert that I was able to attend and it provided all of the resources that I felt that I would need,” Bendig said. “It saved me a lot of money and time.” 

She said the program exposed her to everything from pediatrics and maternity to long-term and acute care, helping shape her view of her new profession.  

“What nursing is all about is showing up for people, advocating for your patients, helping them to navigate health-care systems and being there in the most vulnerable moments that they have,” Bendig said.  

She has accepted a position at Victoria Hospital and plans to begin working under a graduate licence while completing her licensing exam. 

Davies-Arneson, a Prince Albert resident and hairstyling graduate, received a Reconciliation in Action Award.    

She said she applied after encouragement from a student advisor and found the process pushed her to reflect on how much she had grown.  

“Receiving this award is incredibly meaningful to me,” she said. “It represents more than my academic success. It reflects the effort I put into supporting others, getting involved in my community, stepping outside of my comfort zone.” 

Davies-Arneson said being Métis means embracing her culture, history and values while continuing to learn more about her heritage.  

“Being Métis is something I carry with pride, and I am committed to continue that journey of learning and growing in connection throughout my life,” she said. 

Davies-Arneson said she has already started working full time at The Foil Room in Prince Albert and is now building the hours she needs to complete the written and practical portions of her journeyperson certification.

She also offered advice to future students: “Don’t be afraid to step outside their comfort zone. Some of my best experience came from opportunities I almost didn’t take.”  

Sask Polytech president and CEO Dr. Larry Rosia said in a news release that leadership is shown through contribution, accountability and results others can trust.

At the campus convocation on June 16, Sask Polytech recognized graduates not only for academic achievement but also for leadership, community involvement and reconciliation. 

susanmcneil@pattisonmedia.com