Oki! Welcome to Lethbridge Polytechnic!
It’s my pleasure to invite you to learn more about Lethbridge Polytechnic, a new name and designation for a beloved institution that made history as Canada’s first publicly funded community college in 1957. Becoming a polytechnic positions us to best meet the needs of our students, communities, employers and the economy in our region and beyond.
In 2023, we engaged students, employees, alumni and partners in a process that led to a new vision, mission and values. We heard clearly that we are a place where people feel a sense of belonging, and our caring environment supports our students’ success and ability to launch confidently into their careers.
Our designation as a polytechnic aligns with what we heard through that process and with our vision – Preparing Learners. Shaping Communities. As the only polytechnic south of Calgary, we fill a gap in the post-secondary landscape in southern Alberta. As a polytechnic, we will create programs and new pathways to help students continue their education at all stages of their lives and careers. And our ongoing commitment to providing students with work-integrated learning and applied research opportunities supports the career-readiness they want and need.
Our becoming Lethbridge Polytechnic in 2024 isn’t the end of something. It’s the next necessary step in our institution’s proud history of meeting student and community needs with a variety of certificates, diplomas, degrees and apprenticeships that lead to in-demand career opportunities.
We remain grounded on traditional Blackfoot territory. We recognize and respect the distinct cultures, languages, histories and contemporary perspectives of Indigenous people and Indigenous-centred education. And we welcome people from around the world to our campus to share in the opportunities, prosperity and vibrancy that education can provide.
We hope you enjoy exploring Lethbridge Polytechnic and all that we have to offer.
Sincerely,
Brad
Brad Donaldson, EdD
President and CEO