This fall’s Convocation ceremonies reflected on student resilience, education, and the Blue Jays.
From Nov. 3 to 7, the University celebrated the Class of 2025 with convocation ceremonies, hosting over 1,750 student graduates over nine ceremonies that took place in Grant Hall from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., according to the Queen’s Gazette.
Senator Rosemary Moodie and author Uzma Jalaluddin were each conferred honorary doctorates during this year’s Fall Convocation. Moodie received a Doctor of Science, in recognition of her “many accomplishments,” while Jalaluddin was awarded a Doctor of Laws for her literary accomplishments and community advocacy.
The Journal attended the second Convocation ceremony on Nov. 3 for the School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs, the Faculty of Arts and Science, and the Faculty of Law. The event began with a congratulatory speech by University Chaplain Erin Burns, followed by remarks from Queen’s 16th Chancellor Shelagh Rogers, who reflected on resilience, linking it to the Toronto Blue Jays’ recent World Series loss.
“I was watching the Blue Jays and I was thinking […] how touching it was watching them together […] it was a great reminder of what’s important,” she continued. “Today we acknowledge the things that didn’t go right, the resiliency you built, and all that you have to be proud of, which is quite a lot.”
Next to step to the podium was Principal Patrick Deane. In his speech, he reflected on the broader role of universities in students’ lives and emphasized that education isn’t only about acquiring information, but developing perspective, analysis and ethical responsibility.
“Your education leaves you with the tools to understand yourself in relation to others and the world,” Deane said. “Those are the tools that will remain long after specific facts fade.”
Rector Niki Boytchuk-Hale spoke from the student perspective, congratulating the Class of 2025 and encouraging them to reflect on their individual journeys. She acknowledged the anxiety many graduates feel about the future, while emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself.
After the speeches concluded, Queen’s awarded an Honorary Doctor of Science to Senator Rosemary Moodie, a pediatrician, neonatologist, and parliamentarian. A graduate of the Queen’s Master of Public Administration program, Moodie was recognized for her leadership in child health, equity-focused legislation, and advocacy for underrepresented communities.
During Moodie’s time in government, she has sponsored and introduced several bills related to child welfare and youth advocacy, including Bill S-212, which calls for a national strategy for children, and Bill S-210.
In her acceptance speech, Moodie reflected on her transition from medicine to politics and spoke about the role of education in enabling systemic change.
“I was a physician striving to grow as a leader. I saw the challenges within our systems, how policies could shape and sometimes hinder the lives of my patients. And I knew that education would be the bridge to meaningful change.” Moodie said.
Following the addresses and conferral of honorary degree, graduates crossed the stage to receive their diplomas. The afternoon marked the conclusion of years of academic work and the beginning of new professional and personal chapters for the new Queen’s alumni.
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Convocation, honorary degree, Honourary degree, honourary degree recipients
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