BRANDON, Man. – The hard work of 520 Brandon University (BU) students will be celebrated on Friday as they prepare to graduate at the 2017 Spring Convocation.
The day will consist of two ceremonies at BU’s Healthy Living Centre (HLC), with graduates from the Faculties of Health Studies and Science receiving their degrees at the 10 a.m. ceremony. Arts, Education and Music graduates will be recognized at the 3 p.m. ceremony.
“Many members of our staff and faculty have gotten to know these outstanding students personally during their time at Brandon University,” said Katie Gross, BU’s Acting Dean of Student Services. “To see their efforts rewarded when they receive their degrees onstage is special for all of us at BU, and we are delighted to be part of this day of celebration along with our graduates and their family and friends.”
Roy Ching and Jacqueline Sinclair will be the valedictorians for Convocation. Ching, a native of Nelson, New Zealand, will graduate with a four-year Honours Bachelor of Science Degree, majoring in Geology and minoring in Geography. Also an outstanding player for the Bobcats men’s volleyball team, he will speak during the morning ceremony. Sinclair will speak at the afternoon ceremony. An Ojibway woman, originally from Peguis First Nation, Sinclair will receive her Bachelor of Education (After Degree) on Friday, having already completed a four-year Bachelor of Arts in 2015.
“Each year it is gratifying to see the energy, talent and diversity exemplified by our graduates,” said Dr. Gervan Fearon, President and Vice-Chancellor of BU. “The effort and commitment they have displayed in attaining this tremendous achievement are remarkable and inspiring. We are proud of what they have accomplished and excited to see what incredible contributions they will make to their communities in the future as alumni of Brandon University.”
During the morning ceremony, Dr. Dennis Anderson will become the fifth person to be awarded President Emeritus status at Brandon University. Also a BU alumnus, Dr. Anderson served as President and Vice-Chancellor of the University from 1990 to 2000.
Another BU alumnus, Andy Murray, will receive an honorary doctorate during the afternoon ceremony. One of Canada’s most accomplished hockey coaches, Murray will be recognized for his contributions in nurturing success in others and his commitment to mentorship and leadership.
A number of educators will also be recognized at Convocation as the ceremonies will include the presentation of the Brandon University Alumni Association Award for Excellence in Teaching, as well as the Distinguished Teacher Awards.
A livestream of the ceremonies will be available at BrandonU.ca/Convocation.
The HLC will be the site of another significant celebration on Saturday. The sixth annual All Nations Pow Wow will honour BU’s graduating Indigenous students. All are welcome to attend the Pow Wow, which will include Grand Entry ceremonies at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. A detailed schedule of Pow Wow events can be found at BrandonU.ca/Event/All-Nations-Pow-Wow-2017.
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