OTTERBURNE, MB – Providence will hold a ‘Virtual Graduation’ on Saturday, May 29th for both the 2020 and 2021 graduating classes. Around 200 students earning undergraduate and graduate degrees will be celebrating remotely this Spring.
Catherine Rust-Akinbolaji, University College Dean, says Providence is working hard to deliver an innovative way for graduates to participate in commencement activities. “We’re excited to celebrate the hard work and success of our graduating students with a virtual ceremony. It will be a meaningful and memorable program that includes the graduates of 2020 and 2021.”
These two years will go down in history as the school’s first virtual grad classes. Although the pandemic has disrupted regular, in-person graduation traditions and activities, it creates a unique opportunity for students to invite an unlimited number of friends and family, even if they live far away, to join in the virtual fun and celebrations together.
Will Dueck, who is graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science and a recipient of the ABHE Honor Society Delta Epsilon Chi award, has been selected as valedictorian for the University College. Representing the Seminary is Egon Sawatzky Friesen. He is graduating with a Master of Arts in Counselling.
President David Johnson will give the 2021 graduation address. He will retire this June after serving at Providence for 31 years. This will be his last address to the entire student body and the larger Providence community as President.
“I am honoured to be asked to give the commencement address this year,” said Johnson. “I look forward to a great graduation celebration for the classes of 2020 and 2021. I am sure that this virtual ceremony will be memorable for everyone. Congratulations, graduating students! The world needs your knowledge and character for leadership and service.”
Special grad packages including caps and tassels are being mailed and students should begin receiving them by mid-May.
We’re asking graduating students to submit their photos here so they can be included in our virtual presentation. Watch for details via email and social media about how to join us live on Facebook or YouTube on May 29th.
