RDP recognized for military-friendly campus efforts
Red Deer Polytechnic has been formally acknowledged by the Canadian Armed Forces for its sustained support of serving members, veterans and their families. Earlier this week, RDP president Stuart Cullum accepted a Certificate of Appreciation for Employer Support on behalf of the institution, presented by Lieutenant-Colonel John Clark, Commanding Officer of the 41 Signal Regiment.
The recognition stems from RDP’s participation in the national Canadian Military, Veteran and Family Connected Campus Consortium, a collaborative effort that helps military-affiliated learners and staff navigate post-secondary study and employment. The consortium aims to reduce barriers for those whose academic or work lives intersect with training, deployments and postings.
Nomination from within the ranks
The commendation was initiated by Captain Maria Cappis, a reservist and RDP instructor who teaches in the institution’s Parts Technician and Materials Technician apprenticeship programs. Cappis cited the Polytechnic’s flexibility and support as key to balancing her military duties with teaching responsibilities. Her nomination highlighted recent service on Operation CADENCE, where she supported the G7 Leaders' Summit in Kananaskis.
“The experience gained through my Reserve service strengthens my leadership, teamwork, adaptability and decision-making skills—qualities that I am proud to bring back to my role at RDP,” Cappis said.
RDP stated it is proud to stand with post-secondary institutions across the country that are building pathways for military members, veterans and those connected to the CAF. The certificate underscores the role employers and schools play in accommodating training schedules, operational taskings and the unique transitions faced by military families.
What the recognition signals for Red Deer
For Red Deer residents, the acknowledgment draws attention to the intersection of education and service in a city that sees reservists and veterans move between classrooms, workshops and parade squares. While many supports are organized at the federal or provincial level, a local campus’s readiness to work with the Canadian Armed Forces can make day-to-day obligations more manageable for learners and staff who serve.
RDP’s involvement in the Connected Campus Consortium places the institution among a network of colleges and universities that share practices intended to improve continuity for military-affiliated students and employees. In practical terms, this can help maintain momentum in apprenticeship training and academic progress when service responsibilities arise.
At a glance
| Presenter | Lt.-Col. John Clark, CO, 41 Signal Regiment |
|---|---|
| Recipient | Red Deer Polytechnic (Certificate of Appreciation for Employer Support) |
| Nominator | Capt. Maria Cappis, RDP instructor and reservist |
| Consortium | Canadian Military, Veteran and Family Connected Campus Consortium |
| Recent service noted | Operation CADENCE (support to G7 Leaders' Summit in Kananaskis) |
Why it matters
- Employer recognition: The certificate highlights workplace practices that respect reserve service and support veterans and families.
- Education continuity: Participation in a national consortium connects RDP to tools and peers focused on improving access and stability for military-affiliated learners.
- Local impact: Acknowledgement from the CAF reinforces Red Deer’s capacity to retain skilled instructors and students who also serve.
RDP emphasized its commitment to aligning with communities and organizations linked to the Canadian Armed Forces, pointing to the broader aim of making post-secondary education more accessible to those who serve and their loved ones. The certificate presented in Red Deer this week signals ongoing collaboration between the institution and the military community in Central Alberta.
