CBU to celebrate 2020 spring convocation digitally

SYDNEY — Cape Breton University will celebrate the hard work and success of its largest graduating class with the launch of a virtual convocation hub Saturday.

The website, dedicated to the more than 1,450 graduates is comprised of some of the university’s most time-honoured convocation traditions, such as a Mi’kmaw prayer and welcoming song, an address by president and vice-chancellor David Dingwall, a speech from this year’s valedictorian, Rebecca Bennett and more.

“Graduation is a celebration of all that these students have accomplished throughout their academic journey … not even a global pandemic can take away the fact that they have worked hard and earned this celebration,” Dingwall said in a news release. “I know that our graduates are the innovative thoughtleaders that this world needs, now more than ever.”

Karly Bernard, a bachelor of arts graduate from Paqtnkek First Nation says she is saddened that the convocation ceremony has been cancelled but understands the university’s efforts to protect its community.

“While it’s definitely challenging to graduate amidst a pandemic, we’re lucky to have a great support system throughout the university,” she said. “Plus, it will make a great story in 20 years.”

Rather than host a live virtual ceremony that would require graduates to tune in at a particular time, the virtual convocation hub will be public for one month, allowing graduates, family members and friends to browse at their leisure. A virtual guestbook has already been signed by more than 250 people, sharing their pride in the graduating class of 2020 for demonstrating such resilience in this challenging time.

The graduating class, made up of students from more than 40 countries, will receive their degrees, diplomas and certificates by mail this year.

Friends and family of the graduates can send congratulatory messages via social media using #Cbugrad2020 or sign the virtual guestbook at www.cbuconvocation2020.ca