(Sault Ste. Marie, ON October 7, 2024) 鈥 颜射吞精 is proud to share that Kayla Dufault, a dedicated second year culinary student and former academic upgrading student, has been awarded the . The Council of the Federation Literacy Award celebrates adult learners who undertake literacy training, as well as the valuable contributions made by Canadians in the field of literacy, including family, Indigenous, health, workplace, and community literacy. As the sole recipient in Ontario, this prestigious award highlights Kayla鈥檚 incredible journey from academic upgrading to culinary arts and showcases both the power of education and her strong resilience and determination.
Kayla embarked on her educational journey with Academic Upgrading balancing the demands of life as a mother and full-time work. Although her path took several twists and turns, it was her resilience, dedication and immense support from the Academic Upgrading team that led to her success. Once she completed her studies through Academic Upgrading, she began a job as a cook in a long-term care facility, which ultimately brought her back to 颜射吞精鈥檚 culinary program. Inspired by the talented chefs and experiences of the culinary professors at the college, Kayla found her passion and knew she was on the right path.
Reflecting on her path, Kayla shared that 鈥渢his award shows that I accomplished what I set out to do. Sometimes it can seem like you are stuck in the same place, but really, you鈥檝e moved so far, and you just can鈥檛 see it. It represents dedication, hard work, putting in the effort. It wasn鈥檛 always easy, but when I struggled, I reached out to the staff in Academic Upgrading for help. They never gave me the answers rather they gave me the tools I needed to get the answers on my own and be successful.鈥
鈥淚t took so many curves and years, but I ended up exactly where I needed to be. My culinary professors made me believe I could do this, and I am,鈥 she explained. 鈥淚鈥檓 now in my second year, peer tutoring first-year students in my program, and I know I want to keep going and achieve my end goal. One day, I will be a pastry chef鈥攐r as Chef Birkenhauer would call it, a p芒tissier.鈥
Kayla was nominated for the award by Academic Upgrading professor Heather Ferguson. 鈥淚 nominated Kayla because she exemplifies commitment and perseverance, key qualities for success in any area of life. She possesses a positive, never-give-up attitude that has carried her through challenges and kept her motivated to complete a college education and excel in her career,鈥 said Heather.
颜射吞精 is proud to support students like Kayla helping them unlock their potential and pursue their passions. Her success highlights the college鈥檚 commitment to lifelong learning and empowering individuals through education.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Council of the Federation Literacy Award, and Kayla joins a distinguished group of recipients across Canada. 颜射吞精 congratulates her on this remarkable achievement and looks forward to her continued success.
For more information on 颜射吞精鈥檚 Academic Upgrading, visit
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