Algonquin Convocation 2021: Valedictorian Speech Highlights

On June 23, Algonquin College proudly celebrated the accomplishments of its 2021 graduates through a virtual convocation.

Students, their family and friends, faculty, staff, and alumni all came together to celebrate the hard work, resilience, and future plans of all our 2021 graduates. Each ceremony included a passionate speech from a valedictorian, who offered words of encouragement and wisdom to their fellow graduates. We have rounded up some of the most inspiring words from this year’s valedictorian speeches below.

School of Hospitality and Tourism

“This year has taught us if the path we are on has no obstacles it probably leads to nowhere. Don’t be afraid to do things in the wrong order or deviate from your “plan.” This year has proved that we are more than well equipped with the knowledge, skills and abilities to succeed in every aspect of our lives and our careers. If we made it through this, imagine what else we can do.”
~ Fiona McCarthy Kennedy, Bachelor of Hospitality & Tourism Management

Faculty of Media and Design and Language Institute

“So, to all my fellow AC graduates: Never forget the strength and determination you tapped into to make it through this year. Graduating college is a triumph in the best of years but in this year, it’s an extraordinary accomplishment. We had so much working against us, but we persevered, and I believe that we’ve emerged more compassionate, more creative, and above all, stronger than before. So, as you move forward in this new world, never doubt the feats that you’ve achieved in this extraordinary year. Be brave, be kind, and remember your resilience in the face of a remarkable challenge. It’s worth a lot, and I promise, it will take you far.”
~ Madalyn Howitt, Journalism Program

School of Business

“I also want to recognize all international students like myself who are 1000 of miles away from home and family, learning new languages and customs, and sacrificing so much to be here and to build a new life for themselves. I see you and I hope you don’t apologize for your culture and all the unique things that make you, YOU! Keep fighting for a seat at the table because you sure as hell deserve it!”
~ Nishima Malviya, Business Management and Entrepreneurship Program

Centre for Construction Excellence

“Be mindful of finding a chance to pause, breathe and reset. Our lives are and unpredictable nowadays, quiet one minute and hectic the next. Nurture those small moments and habits of relaxation.”
~ Metin Ozturk, Architecture Technology Diploma 

School of Health, Public Safety & Community Studies

“Anything you want moving forward depends on one thing only, and that is you. YOU determine your
future, and YOU are the only person who can make it happen.”
“Many of you will go on to change the world. And the world needs people like us, now more than ever.”
~ Samantha Shields, Personal Support Worker Program

School of Advanced Technology

“Some would consider our experience solitary, but it was not without solidarity. Our Algonquin College community made it possible to thrive despite these strenuous times through our values of caring, integrity, learning and respect. Without your constant support, none of this would have been possible.”
~ Samantha Kuszel, Computer Systems Technology—Security, Advanced Diploma Program

AC Online

“We built support networks through conversations with family and friends, classmates, facilitators, and leaders in the field. We connected with other students through discussion boards and began following those who inspired me us social media. We spoke to professionals in the field and learned to focus on our individual strengths and be proud of what we could do. We gained the courage to begin our plans and work around setbacks as they happened.”
~ Patricia Coyne, Fitness and Health Promotion Program

Pembroke Campus

“And now my friends, I’d like to say “Congratulations” because this challenge is over! You have reached the finish line of This Journey; your degree, certificate, or diploma has been dutifully earned, and you have seen yourself grow intellectually, emotionally and mentally as a result. None of us could have predicted the last year of uncertainty that we were going to pass through, but in the words of philosopher Paul Tillich, “In the courageous standing of uncertainty, faith shows most visibly its dynamic character”. As we go forth into the start of a new journey, may we evoke that same faith for a better tomorrow. May we put forth the same resilience into our future endeavors, and contribute all that is within us to improve the lives of those around us. In this new beginning and as the years go on and our perspectives widen may you always be able to see and recognize the greatness you contribute to the world simply by your existence. Continue to listen to your hopes and follow your dreams on this quest for life long growth and success. Congratulations class of 2021!! We Did that!!”
~ Vera Wilson Ogbeide, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Perth Campus

“Things may not always go as we plan but we know that this graduating class is resilient. We survived the pandemic of the century, and still are. The fact that we are here today, although virtually, is a testimony of our perseverance. This reminds me of the quote “for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” So never give up in life friends.”
~ Neethu James, Computer Programming Program (Perth Campus)

You can see full videos of each ceremony on our Convocation web page.