ACHO DENE KOE/FORT LIARD - A significant education milestone reached by two students was celebrated in Fort Liard on June 9.

Briana Kotchea, left, and Collin Needlay display their graduation certificates during Echo Dene School's graduation ceremony in Fort Liard on June 9. - Roxanna Thompson/NNSL photo

Family members, friends and teachers gathered in the Fort Liard community hall last Thursday evening for Echo Dene School's graduation ceremony. First cousins Collin Needlay and Briana Kotchea were this year's graduates.

Needlay was escorted into the hall by his mother Karen Kotchea Cumberland while Kotchea entered with her father Brian Kotchea. The graduates' accomplishments were lauded by a number of guests.

"We are proud of all you have accomplished," Nahendeh MLA Kevin Menicoche said in his speech.

"It does take hard work and determination to stay in school."

Menicoche told the graduates that they come from a strong people who lived in a rugged land and travelled on mighty rivers without any of the everyday amenities people now take for granted. Continuing to focus on their culture and history will help them to make choices to be better people, he said.

"I dare you to do something great," Menicoche said.

Christine Abela, the guest speaker at the ceremony, told the graduates that achieving their high school diploma is just the beginning.

A diploma is a commitment and an opportunity to move forward, Abela said. She urged the graduates to challenge themselves and to continue learning – achieving success and excellence, however, isn't an easy path and will take diligence and work.

"The only person who can stop you is you," she said.

"Enjoy this moment and use it as a platform for your success in the future.

Both graduates do have plans for further education.

"I believe education is the most important opportunity we can have," said Kotchea during the valedictory address she shared with Needlay.

Kotchea is preparing to participate in a sixmonth program with Canada World Youth.

When she returns, she plans to apply for college or university.

Kotchea said her goal is to pursue a career and then return to Fort Liard to inspire others to pursue their education.

During his portion of the address, Needlay said he plans to examine all his options and possibly work first before applying to college. Needlay said his most memorable moment from high school was being on the Fort Liard soccer team that won the U18 boys division banner at the Connie Loutit Memorial Soccer Tournament in Fort Simpson.

It was the first banner the school had won at the tournament after competing in the event for six years.

"It was a great experience feeling the support of the team," Needlay said.

Both Needlay and Kotchea thanked their parents for helping to guide them to graduation.

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