University leaders, including Chancellor Shelagh Rogers, Principal and Vice-Chancellor Patrick Deane, and Rector Niki Boytchuk-Hale, who preside over Queen’s convocation ceremonies, welcomed graduates to convocation. In a series of speeches, each offered congratulations, words of wisdom, and inspiration to the graduates. 

Chancellor Rogers urged graduates to never give up on dreaming, and to believe in themselves despite the odds, because doing so is what has gotten them across the stage.

“Those who dream understand that it’s way more fun, and heart enlarging, to celebrate difference instead of fearing it, to know it does not diminish, it enriches,” said Chancellor Rogers in her address.  

After reflecting on the importance of responsibility, equity, and respect for all, Principal Deane urged graduates to consider what else would be needed to build a better future.

“These values will undoubtedly help you navigate the uncertainties that lie ahead, but will they be enough?” said Deane in his remarks. “There is one human faculty I haven’t yet mentioned which will undoubtedly be the guarantor of a better future for each of you and for humanity at large, and that is imagination, without which a brilliant future for each of you cannot be planned and without which a good and just society cannot be conceived, let alone realized.”

Rector Boytchuk-Hale congratulated the graduates on their achievements and urged graduates to never forget the friends and family members, who supported them during their studies. She also asked them to never stop having a positive impact on the communities around them.

“As you close this chapter, I know that this is just the beginning of your meaningful endeavours,” said Rector Boytchuk-Hale. “My wish is that, wherever you go in the world and whatever way you choose to spend your time, you create change in a way that makes sense for you.” 

Following the speeches, Chancellor Rogers officially conferred degrees upon the graduates, and they began to cross the stage to shake hands with the university’s top leaders.

To recognize the culture of Indigenous graduates as they celebrated their academic achievements, when crossing the stage Indigenous students received either a Blackfoot Peoples Mountain Blanket or a feather fan as a gift from the university.

Queen’s also conferred an honorary degree on Monique Frize, an eminent biomedical engineer, researcher, and educator, and David Alexander Robertson, a renowned author, publisher, podcaster, and social advocate. 

After the ceremonies concluded, graduates took the time to enjoy the momentous occasion with each other and their guests, many choosing to take photos outside of the venues and on campus.

Convocation ceremonies continue throughout the week, with the last ceremony taking place June 26, and they can all be watched through a Queen’s livestream.