May 15, 2020
Convocation ceremonies are the highlight of the academic year for many students, faculty and staff at Mount Saint Vincent University (MSVU). While spring ceremonies have been cancelled, the University is finding alternative ways to celebrate the accomplishments of our spring 2020 graduates.
“Like other members of the MSVU community, I’m extremely disappointed that in-person events had to be cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Dr. Mary Bluechardt, President and Vice-Chancellor. “But we won’t let that stop us from honouring our graduating students by acknowledging their academic achievements and marking this important milestone in their lives.”
Spring grads will officially graduate from MSVU on May 29, as this is when all degrees, diplomas and certificates will be conferred in absentia by the Senate executive. Grads will be notified by email once this has taken place (will be later in the day). This is also when a special video tribute to our grads, and our full list of graduates will be posted online.
In June, graduating students will receive a special delivery from MSVU – which we’re calling a Graduation in a Box – that will include: their parchment* and any award(s) bestowed; an alumni pin and key chain; an official alumni card that will grant them a number of perks (learn more here); an ‘MSVU Class of 2020’ sign; as well as a letter from Dr. Mary Bluechardt. Graduates are being encouraged to take a photo of themselves holding the sign included in the package and post it on social media using the hashtag #MSVUGrad2020.
When the University first announced that spring convocation was cancelled, students were offered the opportunity to attend a ceremony in the fall. We hope to have an update on fall convocation very soon.
“Our graduates have shown incredible resilience as they’ve navigated, and continue to navigate, one of the most challenging times the world has faced in recent history,” said Dr. Bluechardt. “We want to do everything we can to show our enormous pride and appreciation.”