[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/CCE07graduation.jpg” caption=”The CCE Award recipients for 2007. Below, Fred Hall congratulates Allan Wong of Hospitality Services, who received his Diploma in Management Studies along with his son Matthew. Photos courtesy of Dawn Berwick.”]More than 100 graduands received their certificates and diplomas earned through the Centre for Continuing Education (CCE) at a graduation ceremony on Nov. 2.

Although it was the 10th anniversary of this celebration, the roots of the Continuing Education department date back to 1930, the year McMaster moved from Toronto to Hamilton.

Tracey Taylor-O'Reilly, director of CCE, acted as master of ceremonies for the evening and delivered a presentation that highlighted some historical moments.

In 1931, CCE offered courses in English, history, math, philosophy, Latin, French and geography. Tuition was $16 per course plus $2 in student fees. The Certificate in Metallurgy of Iron and Steel was first offered in the 1950s. And Space Technology courses were introduced in 1958, 11 years before the first landing on the moon.

In 2002, CCE moved to the old courthouse in downtown Hamilton. The courthouse has its own history. A series of courthouses have existed in the blocks surrounding the current location, starting with a log cabin, built in the early 1800's. Apparently, the last hanging took place on June 7, 1859.

Taylor-O'Reilly commented that “continuing education is the front porch to any university…our department, which has operated under several names, including Continuing Education, Adult Education and Extension, has been about offering open and accessible university education, about meeting the changing needs of our community, since its inception.”

Our current CCE students range from new university graduates in their early 20s to senior citizens. Most CCE students attend school part time and are balancing full-time jobs and family to continue their education. The parents, spouses and children of the graduands attended the ceremony to cheer them on.

Allan Wong works in Hospitality Services at McMaster. His son Matthew joined him on stage to receive his Diploma in Management Studies.

Former regional chairman Terry Cooke provided the keynote address. Cooke is a McMaster graduate as is his father and grandfather. Cooke related his grandfather's experience, completing his education part time while working and supporting a family, with the experience of the current CCE cohort.

Award recipients:

MAPS/CCE Awards for Academic Excellence: