Grad 2011
Grad day May 27, 2011 arrived a gray and rainy day. We started with the official opening of the Dairy Education Innovation Centre. Speeches, ribbon cutting, unveiling of the donor wall, tour of the new facility and reception.
Next on the agenda was the awards luncheon in Purvis Hall. Followed by the 93rd graduation ceremony in W.B.George Building.
One hundred and twenty-two students made the traditional walk across the stage to accept diplomas and certificates marking successful completion of studies ranging from crop management to industrial welding. The event also recognized the 25 second year students in the Bachelor of Bio-resource Management (Equine Management Major) who will continue their studies at the University of Guelph main campus in the fall.
Akaash Maharaj, Chief Executive Officer of Equine Canada, was the keynote speaker at the ceremony. A Canadian graduate of Oxford University, in addition to international accomplishments as an equestrian, Maharaj had a distinguished career in civil diplomacy focussing on armed conflict resolution, defence of human rights, and political reform of global institutions.
Julie Ann McInnes a graduate of the Food, Nutrition and Risk Management, was the recipient of the 2011 Governor General’s Bronze Medal which is awarded each year by the University of Guelph to the diploma student who has graduated with the highest cumulative average.
More than one third of the Class of 2011 are graduating with distinction, meaning they have attained marks of 80% or more in their chosen studies. Members of the class have come from coast to coast to study at Kemptville, with graduates originating in British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. Careers in agricultural production and management, institutional food, or the horse industry await both diploma and certificate holders.
“This has been a full and exciting day” said Claude Naud, director of the University of Guelph Kemptville Campus. “With the inauguration of an important new facility and the success of this graduating class, we feel we can look forward to the future with great anticipation and pride.”
A reception in Bell Hall for students and family ended the day.
Proud family members and friends await the ceremony.
The grads enter clad in their gowns with their scarves over their right arm and their names for the registrar.
A variety of footwear completed the ensemble.
The reception at Bell Hall was indoors because of the inclement weather.
