Media Release - For Immediate Release
October 24, 2011
Aspiring Graduates Bid Farewell to University
Saint Mary's University Chancellor, Dr. Robert P. Kelly, presents graduates with parchements. 
Saint Mary's University Graduates enter the Convocation Ceremony at the World Trade and Convention Centre |
More than 400 students crossed the stage to receive their parchments from University Chancellor Dr. Robert P. Kelly, and say farewell to Saint Mary’s University.
The University celebrated its annual Fall Convocation on October 23 at the World Trade and Convention Centre. The Convocation ceremony honored graduates from the Faculty of Arts, Faculty of Science, and Sobey School of Business.
Some students celebrated with tears of joy, others a simple smile, but all were prepared to start the next chapter in their aspiring lives as graduates of one of Canada’s oldest and most prestigious institutions of higher learning.
“It may have taken litres upon litres of coffee… It may have taken all nighters, but we’re here now. Graduating, proud, relieved, happy, excited and most of all ready,” said Valedictorian Ana Zbona, in her inspiring speech at the convocation.
Zbona who grew up in Slovenia, is graduating with a BA in International Development Studies and Honours in Political Science.
“We all feel it; Saint Mary’s truly is a community,” said Zbona. “Saint Mary’s taught us what it feels like if you are treated as more than just a number. Let us remember this lesson and reshape the world with it.”
In addition to degrees bestowed upon students, Saint Mary’s University granted honorary degrees to three individuals who have made significant contributions to Canadian society. Fred George received an Honorary Doctor of Commerce, Dale Godsoe an Honorary Doctor of Civil Law and Danny McCarthy an Honorary Doctor of Commerce.
The University also granted Dr. David Turner with the honorary rank of Professor Emeritus. The prominent designation is awarded to a retired professor who has served the University with distinction and who wishes to continue a formal association with the Institution. Dr. Turner joined the department of Astronomy in 1984. He is best known at the University for having served as Department Chair for eight years, and having asteroid 6898 Saint-Mary’s named for the University in honour of its 200th anniversary celebration.
As well, University President, J. Colin Dodds, awarded Dr. Anthony Charles as the recipient of the 2011 President’s Award for Excellence in Research. The annual award honours outstanding research conducted by a full-time faculty member who has been employed at the University for at least three years.
“You are the change,” said President Dodds as he addressed the graduating class. In his final words to the departing students, he reminded them to follow their hopes and dreams and never lose sight of the teachings, friends and memories collected at Saint Mary’s University.
“Class of fall 2011…thank you for permitting us to be a part of your life.”
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For More Information:
Steve Proctor
External Affairs
Saint Mary's University
(902) 420.5513
E-mail: steve.proctor@smu.ca
www.smu.ca
This page last modified Wednesday, 26-Oct-2011 09:14:47 ADT