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92nd Spring Conovacation |
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by Karla Tynski, BA IV On May 13, 2002, the St. Thomas University Alumni Association welcomed 348 of its newest members. It was St. Thomas University’s 92nd Spring Convocation, and the second time the ceremony was held outdoors in the courtyard. The sun shone brightly as the grads listened to the advice of honorary doctorate recipient and Canadian broadcaster, Pamela Wallin. She told the graduates that there are many different ways to evaluate success and achievement. “In the end, I have come to measure my success by the company I keep. So look around the room - this gathering today - and judge your own success so far.” Wallin was one of three recipients awarded honorary degrees. Also awarded was New Brunswick Court of Queen’s Bench Justice William Creaghan, who received an honorary doctor of laws degree. Creaghan was a member of the St. Thomas Board of Governors from December 1958, when the University was located in Chatham, N.B., until May 1997. Roger Clark, secretary-general of the Canadian section of Amnesty International, was awarded an honorary doctor of letters. His involvement in international human rights began 1981 and continues today in his retirement. He was awarded the Order of Canada in August 2001 for his development work around the world. This year’s recipient of the Governor General’s Silver Medal was Valerie Kennedy of Harvey Station. The University Medal for Academic Excellence was presented to Matthew Flanagan of Fredericton. Aaron Knox, this year’s Valedictorian, was the winner of the McCann trophy, an award given to a graduating student leader. In his address to his fellow graduates Knox reflected on the difficulty in saying goodbye to St. Thomas University. “When we say goodbye what is it that we are saying goodbye to? Clearly we say goodbye to the physical buildings at St. Thomas University...but far more worthy of acknowledging and celebrating is what went on inside these buildings, these classrooms during our years here at STU.” A special congratulations to Mary Jones, BA ‘02, who has been a part of the St. Thomas University family for many years as executive assistant to the President and interim alumni affairs officer in ‘97. Congratulations to all of the 2002 graduates and best of luck in your future endeavors! |
Valedictorian
and winner of the McCann trophy, Aaron Knox, BA '02 (left) and Dr. Daniel
O'Brien welcome the day.