The Keyano College Gala was held on Saturday, Nov. 4, and saw around 900 guests come down, and received over $380,000 for the school.

The year’s gala raised over $130,000 to be put toward athletics and academics.

Keyano College also received a donation from the Bouchier Family Foundation of $250,000 to go toward a new Indigenous Student Centre on campus.

“We believe in paying it forward, and this legacy donation to support the Indigenous Student Centre at Keyano is just the beginning,” says Nicole Bouchier, CEO and co-owner of Bouchier.

“We are excited about the future and remain committed to promoting opportunities for Indigenous peoples and community development.”

Mitch Mercredi, was also recognized by the college as the Distinguished Alumnus for his work within First Nations, Inuit, and Metis communities as the Land Use, Economic Development, and Natural Resources Lead at Deloitte.

His work with the Northeastern Alberta Aboriginal Business Association (NAABA) was also highlighted.

The gala saw performances by Canadian country artist, Brett Kissel, with local opener, Tyler Whelan.

The annual event serves to promote the college and raises funds for the campus.