Brandon University returns to an in-person Convocation this week with one of its largest graduating classes ever.

A total of 641 students will receive their degrees at Spring Convocation 2022, a two-day celebration of academic achievement with four separate ceremonies. It’s the largest graduating class since 2010 and one of the largest ever.

“We couldn’t be prouder of our grads who have persevered through a pandemic to earn their degrees. This shows the lasting value and appeal of a university education, and regional universities like BU have been the most responsive to changing student and community needs,” said BU President Dr. David Docherty. “What a thrill to return to an in-person Convocation so we can send our graduates off in true BU style.”

Over the past two years, BU has been forced to celebrate virtual Convocations, so is pleased this year to welcome back graduates from the Class of 2020 and the Class of 2021 and invite them to walk across the stage in front of friends and family.

“Celebrations over the past two years have been meaningful, but muted,” said Andrea McDaniel, University Registrar, whose office coordinates Convocation. “Although our grads from 2020 and 2021 have already received their degrees, we’re delighted to welcome them back for this in-person recognition, with all the cheering and applause they’ve earned.”

About 120 graduates from 2020 and 2021 have RSVPed to attend in-person this year, meaning Convocation could feature around 750 grads over the four ceremonies.

“It’s a special responsibility to be the person who calls out each graduate’s name as they cross the stage to receive their degree,” McDaniel said. “Convocation is a big ceremony, but at its heart, this is who we are celebrating: Our grads, who are the stars of this show.”

Alongside a celebration of graduates, Convocation 2022 will feature a pair of Lifetime Achievement Awards, presented to members of the BU community who have made significant contributions in service and achievement generally throughout their lives and in particular to Brandon University. Heather Coulter and Bill Gordon (posthumously) will receive Lifetime Achievement Awards.

Excellence in research, teaching, and community service will also be honoured at Convocation. Dr. Joe Stouffer and Dr. Christopher Schneider will receive Senate Awards for Excellence, while Kimberley Ryan will receive a Board of Governors Award.

Other honorees at Convocation include six valedictorians, as well as two Manitoba teachers who are receiving Distinguished Teacher Awards from the BU Faculty of Education.

Convocation is a community celebration, and all are welcome to help celebrate Brandon University’s newest grads, as they embark on the next phase of their academic journeys or enter their careers. Masks are encouraged. To reduce crowding, please consider viewing the livestream of the Convocation ceremonies at BrandonU.ca/Convocation.