Spring 2017 convocation recap

‌“Make your vision so clear that fears become irrelevant. Vision without action is merely a dream. Action without vision just passes the time. Vision with action can change the world.”

- Futurist, Joel Barker

Vancouver Community College is proud to announce the graduation of 1,327 hardworking and dedicated students on Thursday, June 29, 2017. This year’s spring convocation took place at 1 p.m. in a single ceremony at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.

Areas of study awarding degrees, diplomas, and certificates included:

• School of Health Sciences
• School of Hospitality, Food Studies & Applied Business
• School of Trades, Technology & Design
• School of Arts and Sciences
• Centre for Continuing Studies and Contract Training
• Division of Library and Teaching & Learning Services

Valedictorian Shauna McGoldrick, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, addressed the graduating class with a motivating message:

“It is now our opportunity to use our new strength to become the supportive springboard for others to achieve success and well-being. We must approach this privilege with humility and fierceness and with our sincerest compassionate hearts, which I know we will continue to share."

After Aboriginal studies at UBC and working as a community health worker in the Downtown Eastside, Shauna enrolled in the Access to Licensed Practical Nursing program at VCC in order to do more for marginalized populations. During her time at VCC, Shauna was awarded the Pat Smith Award, an award for the student who best demonstrates a passion for nursing.

VCC alumnus Scott Jaeger, chef/owner of The Pear Tree Restaurant, offered an inspired alumni address:

"Be convicted to your goals. Don't abandon them, but don't allow yourself to be handcuffed by them. Be open to what the world is going to bring you."

Scott is well regarded by his industry peers as a leader and a mentor. He doubts there has been a time in the last ten years that he hasn't had a VCC student or graduate in his kitchen. Scott recently won VCC's outstanding alumni award in the category of career success.

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