Convocation Ceremonies
Approximately 400 graduates joined the alumni community during the 2019 Convocation ceremonies held May 13.
Six individuals were also recognized with honorary degrees:
- David Booth (’84), retired Chief Executive Officer of BackOffice Associates, LLC, former Board of Regents member, founding member of the University’s National Advisory Council, and philanthropist;
- Andrea Colfer, Elder and Knowledge Keeper in the territory of Mi’kma’ki;
- Sharon Johnston, former Vice-Regal Consort, mental health and wellness advocate, and published author;
- Sheldon Levy, special advisor to the federal Minister of Small Business and Export Promotion, former CEO of NEXT Canada, and former President of Ryerson University;
- Marguerite Maillet, award-winning teacher and researcher in Acadian literature and author of several children’s books;
- Drew Hayden Taylor, award-winning Ojibway playwright, author, columnist, filmmaker, and lecturer from Curve Lake First Nations.
French and geographic information systems graduate Hannah Sholtz of Hamilton, ON delivered the valedictory address. Sholtz has accepted a contract with Venture for Canada, a program which trains and connects recent graduates with startups looking for young workers, and is completing their summer program
in Ontario.
Religious studies professor Dr. Fiona Black received the 2019 Paul Paré Medal of Excellence, presented annually to a faculty member at 69³ÉÈ˵çÓ°Íø who has exemplified outstanding teaching, research, scholarship, and/or creative activities, and who has an exemplary record of service.
From left to right, back row: Chancellor Lynn Loewen (’82), David Booth (’84), Sheldon Levy, Drew Hayden Taylor, Sharon Johnston, and President Jean-Paul Boudreau. Front row: Andrea Colfer, Marguerite Maillet