Fifty years after the Nursing Class of 1976 left Confederation College with diplomas in hand, and a future in healthcare in front of them, they returned as seasoned experts.

Travelling from around the world, this dedicated group returned to reconnect once again and see for themselves just how much Confederation College has grown in the 50 years since their graduation.

The alumni were greeted by a college that looked just a bit different compared to what they remembered. They learned about the expanded Nursing Program, marvelled at the glass walls and multi-story open space of the REACH Atrium, and got a view of the new state-of-the-art simulation labs.

Their weekend kicked off with a tour of the labs. Jordan Gratz, the Simulation and Lab Lead Technician, guided them through the learning spaces, including the High-Fidelity Labs – a series of specially built rooms where students can experience a maternity ward, a pediatric ward, and an Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

It was in the ICU room where “Lars,” the college’s high-fidelity mannequin, cheerfully greeted them and allowed one of them to take his apical pulse (heartbeat on chest). It was here that, perhaps due to Lars’ charm, some signed up to volunteer in future labs, prepared to pass down 50 years of real-world experience to the next generation of nurses.

Their tour ended with a meal in Rumours Dining Room, where they were treated to a catered dinner, gift bags, and old mementos brought by other classmates.

They capped off their weekend with a day on the lake, where amid relaxation along the water, old memories were shared, and new ones cemented.

📢 If you would like to arrange a reunion and would like advice on next steps email: [email protected]