Paulette Flamond receives an Honorary
Associate of Arts degree from NLC Board
of Governors chair Karen Simpson.
DAWSON CREEK – Paulette Flamond, an inspirational leader and supporter of community organizations in the City of Fort St. John, has received an Honorary Associate of Arts Degree from Northern Lights College.
The Honorary Degree – in recognition of Flamond’s guidance and energies given to Aboriginal and community agencies and businesses – was conferred by Board of Governors chair Karen Simpson and NLC president Laurie Rancourt during Convocation ceremonies on June 14 at the Aerospace Centre at the Dawson Creek Campus.
Flamond founded the North East Aboriginal Business Centre 10 years ago, and is also its executive director. She is a tireless volunteer who has served as a director on several national and provincial boards and committees representing the Aboriginal business community. Flamond has 17 years in business and management, including international business experience, and is a successful business owner in Fort St. John.
In her address to the graduates, Flamond talked about the many ventures in which she has been involved, and she focused on the importance of determination and enthusiasm in achieving success in any endeavour.
“If you change your thinking, you change your life. It’s really that simple,” Flamond said. “Getting involved is good for your soul, but also enhances your career…. You have so much to give and receive.”
In 2009, Flamond was named Economic Developer of the Year by the Council for the Advancement of Native Development. She also received the Aurora Award of Distinction as Aboriginal Woman of the Year from Community Futures Peace Liard. And in 2011, she received the Northern British Columbia Business and Technology Award.
Flamond also has an impressive educational background. She completed The Art and Science of Coaching at Erickson College in Vancouver, graduated from Edmonton’s Grant MacEwan College in Native Communication, and earned a Life Skills Certificate from the Life Skills Institute in Edmonton. As well, she completed a number of courses in Social Work and Business Management at Northern Lights College.