Cheers and a few tears filled the Athabasca Regional Multiplex last week as over 1,000 students graduated convocated from Athabasca University.
Although not every graduating student came to their graduationattended, friends, family and studentsthose who did came in from all over Canada – and some a bit farther than that – to celebrate one of the biggest milestones in their lives with friends and family.
“This is your day, your time, and we truly couldn't be happier for each one of you,” said acting Athabasca University board of governors chair Margaret Mrazek during her opening remarks. “In a few minutes, you’ll be walking across the stage to receive your degree, and I'd like to congratulate each and every one of you on your outstanding accomplishments.,” said acting Athabasca University board of governors chair Margaret Mrazek during her opening remarks.
“Convocation is a time for celebrating the successful completion of one journey, and it's also a time to look ahead and imagine a future filled with possibilities.”
Athabasca-Sturgon-Redwater MLA Colin Piquette and Athabasca Mmayor Roger Morrill were also both on hand each day to offer their congratulations to the graduates and offer their words of wisdom.
“If I have one wish for you as you go forward, is that you keep in mind the ideals behind the purpose of higher education itself,” said Piquette. “It's about more than how much you've earned or what you can buy, it's about who you are and who you become, and who you've shared with and about how you shape your future.”
During the school's Friday graduation, the school also presented an honorary doctor of law degree to Claire Clark, founder of the Aboriginal Women’s Professional Association, as well as various other organizations that work with Aboriginal youth and women., and sSeveral Order of Athabasca University awards were also presented.
On Saturday, they presented an honorary doctorate of law to David Hancock, the fifteenth 15th premier of Alberta.
