VIU Baking Program Grad Wins Lt. Governor's Silver Medal

A graduate in Vancouver Island University’s (VIU) Professional Baking and Pastry Arts program will be awarded the University’s Lieutenant Governor’s Silver Medal for her outstanding work in the program.

Miriam Popma, whose hometown is Duncan, will receive the medal at VIU’s convocation ceremonies for graduates in Trades and Applied Technology programs in Nanaimo’s Port Theatre on Friday, June 20.

Popma said she was pleased and surprised to be notified of the award on her last day of the program, as she studied for her provincial exam the next day.

“I’m looking forward to what lies ahead even though it’s strange to think I’m done,” she said.

After a two-week work experience at the award-winning Wickaninnish Inn in Tofino, Popma was offered a job as junior pastry cook. She starts at the end of June.

Just two months into the Baking program at VIU last fall, Popma won the Gourmet Warehouse Cacao Barry Callebaut Chocolate Challenge Oct. 10 in Vancouver with her outstanding chocolate mousse dessert creation.

“We are very proud of Miriam’s accomplishments in the program,” said Martin Barnett, head instructor for the Professional Baking program. “She’s been an outstanding student, showing great initiative and taking advantage of opportunities that come her way.”

The Lieutenant Governor’s Silver Medal is awarded annually to a graduating student at VIU in a certificate program, who combines excellence in studies, with a positive contribution to the life of the university and/or community.

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Media Contact:
Shari Bishop Bowes, Communications Officer, Vancouver Island University
P:250.740.6443 C: 250.618.1535 E: Communications@viu.ca T: @viunews