Big day at last for Class of 2026

Graduation ceremonies wrapped up on Friday at Brandon University, marking the official sendoff of 530 students.

Christine Bovis-Cnossen, who was installed during the ceremonies as the university’s 16th president and vice-chancellor, described the university as second to none.

“There are many universities bigger than Brandon University, but there are none better,” Bovis-Cnossen said in her speech. “We are a community where faculty know your names, where staff truly care about your success, where people lend a hand when you struggle and cheer when you thrive.”

She encouraged students to take their passion, idealism and dedication out into the world to change it for the better.

Métis elder and Michif language keeper Verna DeMontigny was presented with an honorary degree during the convocation — a doctor of laws degree for her work preserving and revitalizing the Michif language over decades.

“A respected elder, educator, mentor and community leader, DeMontigny has spent decades ensuring that Métis language, culture and knowledge continue to flourish for future generations,” the university said in a news release Friday.

The Class of 2026 included graduates from the faculties of arts, education, health studies, science and the School of Music. The graduates joined the ranks of more than 40,000 alumni worldwide.

Chancellor Mary Jane McCallum presided over her final convocation this year. Her term began during the pandemic and helped guide the university through significant change.

The convocation livestream will be available to re-watch at WCGtv and will be permanently archived in the fall at BrandonU.ca/Convocation.

» The Brandon Sun