Valentine’s Day Graduation at SeaWorld Orlando 

SeaWorld’s Nautilus Theatre overflowed with support from the over 700 guests who attended the Southeast Region’s February 2009 Team Training Graduation. SeaWorld generously hosted the event that welcomed our seven newest Graduate Teams.   After the ceremony, guests enjoyed a day at the park compliments of SeaWorld.

The Southeast Region was also pleased to make three other very special presentations at the ceremony. 

The Jack Warnock National Volunteer of the Year award was presented to longtime supporter and volunteer Jo Ann Guise.

Staff member Summer Brown received her Instructor’s Pin in honor of her completion of the CCI Apprentice Instructor Program and promotion to Full Instructor. 

Lastly, in memory of puppy raiser Barbara Clonts, who passed away suddenly in October, a plaque announcing the honorary namesake of puppy CLONTS and the naming of a kennel run in her honor was presented to her husband Rex Clonts.

The Southeast Region would like to thank all of the volunteers, supporters and especially SeaWorld Orlando for making this a Valentine’s Day to remember. 

 Here are some comments from our graduation attendees:

We loved the ceremony on Saturday and have already shared a link or two about CCI with various friends that have asked about our experience on Saturday.  We are more passionate than ever about the wonderful things CCI is doing for people with special needs and the dogs that can help them.  We look forward to continuing to support CCI as puppy raisers and in new ways we can think of.
   ~CCI Puppy Raiser

Thanks CCI for the wonderful time we had at the graduation we really get it now!!
   ~First time CCI Puppy Raiser

It was nice to show friends and family some of the things accomplished by your organization and it was another wonderful event for Canine Companions.
   ~CCI Supporter

Just attended the ceremony...Wow what a great experience.  You all are amazing and what a great organization. Thank you all so much, it was awesome!!!
   ~Attendee (First Introduction to CCI)

I wanted to thank you so much for inviting me to the Canine Graduation on Saturday. It was such a treat to see the full graduation process. It was so touching and it just made it clear how important these dogs are to the lucky people that are the recipients.

  ~CCI Supporter