An email from Athabasca University's president obtained by the Athabasca Advocate states the 2019 convocation ceremonies are being moved from Athabasca to Red Deer.
In the email, university president Neil Fassina states that with the rapidly evolving wildfire situation in northern Alberta, the university is proactively relocating convocation so that the facilities and resources in Athabasca are available for Albertans. The annual event was set to take place in the Athabasca Regional Multiplex June 7-8.
"This is not a decision I take lightly," the email states. "Understandably, this is upsetting news, but the safety of our team members, graduands, their guests, and the community is our top priority."
The email states the university is activating its contingency plan.
"Due to the many people and logistics involved with moving our convocation events, we can't wait any longer to make this decision," it reads.
A message on the university's website states the new location for convocation will be the Westerner Park Exhibition Hall at 4847A 19th Street in Red Deer.
"With the rapidly evolving and unpredictable wildfire situation in northern Alberta, we did not want to risk bringing thousands of additional people into a region that may be called upon to support an emergency response," Fassina states on the website.
"We look forward to returning to the community of Athabasca for next year’s convocation as part of our 50th Anniversary Celebration," he also states.
Detailed information regarding hotels and reservations can be found on Athabasca University's website.
