Power outage not enough to quell energy at Pembroke Campus convocation

Posted on Monday, June 12th, 2023

Power outage not enough to quell energy at Pembroke Campus convocation

There are few things worse than a power outage at a convocation ceremony, but when the lights went out for a few seconds at the Pembroke Campus convocation ceremony, it just added to the memories of an incredible day celebrating the class of 2023. The electrical failure at the Pembroke Memorial Centre happened just after Honorary Degree recipient Wendy Jocko had finished her speech, but fortunately it didn’t last long and the ceremony was able to resume within a few minutes.

In her speech, the former Chief of the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan spoke about how Indigenous peoples have been suppressed, sharing some of Canada’s historical record and the harm done to Indigenous communities. While her message was in part a history lesson, it was also focussed on the value of education to enable truth and reconciliation. Jocko commended Algonquin College “as an institution known for being accessible and open to people of all walks of life.”

She told the graduates. “you are positive role models who serve as an example, inspiring others to live meaningful lives and show young people how to live with integrity, optimism, hope, determination and compassion,” added Jocko.

The campus valedictorian,. Kaitlyn Mick of the Social Service Worker program built on Jocko’s words. In her address to the graduating class, she told her classmates to “never give up on your dreams because it is never too soon or too late to fulfill them, but remember to persist, continue, overcome, evaluate, and adjust. As long as you never give up and never stop trying, because dreams are only dreams until you make them your reality,” said Mick.

Almost 180 graduates crossed the stage to be recognized by President Claude Brulé for their academic accomplishments. In his address, the President had encouraged the graduates to keep an open mind. “Stay curious, never be afraid or too proud to ask for help, and do venture out of your comfort zone,” said the President.

He closed his speech by telling the graduates to “stay true to your aspirations and don’t let adversity hinder your progress. Instead, use the education and experiences that you have gained at Algonquin College as your compass to overcome those challenges and forge a path towards a future that is truly remarkable.”

Following the ceremony, the graduates and their families joined college faculty, staff and administration for a reception at the Pembroke Waterfront Campus which is across the street from the Pembroke Memorial Centre.


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