University Canada West held its largest convocation ever as nearly 4,000 students graduated over eight ceremonies October 28-30 at Queen Elizabeth Theatre in Vancouver. 

Fall 2024 Convocation featured graduates from UCW’s Master of Business Administration, Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Arts in Business Communication and Associate of Arts programs.  

“Graduates, this is your day, a day to reflect on your time as a student,” Dr. Bashir Makhoul, UCW’s President and Vice-Chancellor, said. “A day to recall your experiences both in your studies and in your personal life; a day to feel proud of yourselves for what you’ve achieved; but most of all, a day to look forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead of you.” 

Tarun Bellani was valedictorian for Fall 2024 Convocation. He graduated with distinction after earning a 4.09 grade point average. 

Tarun was born in Jhansi, India, and earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Savitribai Phule Pune University, formerly the University of Pune. 

Tarun spent the last 12 years in progressive roles in industrial sales and business development in India. Despite being in a well-established role and being considered for a promotion, he had saved up enough money and decided to follow his dream of pursuing an MBA in Canada. 

“UCW has been a fascinating school,” he said. “It has given me the platform to learn new concepts and the best part is that the professors here are working in top companies and give their insights into the business world from the perspective of the Canadian economy.” 

He expressed gratitude to those professors for the guidance and was thankful for the friends he made at UCW as well as the unwavering support from his family. His success is deeply rooted in the unwavering support and encouragement of his parents, Kanhaiyalal and Rupa. 

“I know I’m not alone in this. Every graduate sitting here today has faced their own challenges. Many moved to a new country, adjusting to a rigorous curriculum, balancing studies and finances, overcoming loneliness and still striving for excellence. Each of us has been tested and has triumphed in our own way,” he said during his speech. 

The Medal for Academic Excellence winners for Fall 2024 Convocation were: 

  • John Sylvester Venturina Argayosa, who is from the Philippines, graduated from UCW’s Master of Business Administration program with a 4.09 Cumulative Grade Point Average. 
  • Dilka Dulani Juwan Pedige, from Sri Lanka, graduated from the Bachelor of Commerce program with a 3.81 CPGA. 
  • Eva Corral Zepeda, from Mexico, graduated from the Bachelor of Arts in Business Communication program with a 3.81 CPGA. 
  • Sharmaine Joy Lemi Alibanban, from the Philippines, graduated from the Associate of Arts program with a 4.05 CPGA. 

 

Community advocate Dr. Francisco Javier Barajas received an honorary doctorate. Dr. Barajas has been a staunch advocate for both the Mexico-Latino and the LGBTQ2+ Latino communities in Canada and the United States. Over the past 30 years, his involvement in these communities has been extensive, from founding new associations to organizing financial education fairs and cultural events for Mexicans and Hispanic-Latinos in Vancouver.   

“Your presence here is a beautiful testament to the power of diversity,” Dr. Barajas told the crowd at Queen Elizabeth Theatre Tuesday morning. “Each of you carries with you the rich traditions, values and resilience of your homelands. You have enriched our community, sharing knowledge and culture that goes far beyond what textbooks can offer.”  

  • He was presented with the degree of Doctor of Law, honoris causa. 

Professor Wahiba Chair was honoured with the Sustained Excellence in Teaching & Learning Award and Professor Alexander Sakharov was presented with the Leadership in Teaching & Learning Award at UCW. 

UCW established the Teaching and Learning Excellence Awards to recognize outstanding faculty and staff. 

As Assistant Professor in the Department of Arts, Social Sciences and Communication at UCW, Wahiba has developed and redesigned pivotal courses, including the capstone project for Bachelor of Arts in Business Communication students.  

“(Wahiba’s) teaching is distinguished by an exceptional combination of innovation, student-centred focus and a commitment to real-world application,” said Dr. Stephanie Chu, UCW’s Associate Vice President, Teaching, Learning and Scholarship during convocation.  

Alexander has been instrumental in leading several transformative initiatives that have significantly advanced teaching practices and student opportunities. His efforts range from spearheading partnerships with Riipen, which provides students with real-world industry experience, to a UX Design Institute certification opportunity.  

“Alexander’s leadership, dedication and innovative spirit have significantly transformed the educational experience at University Canada West, benefiting both students and faculty alike,” said Dr. Chu.  

Cowichan First Nations artist Bambi Smith created a new crest for the robes worn by the platform party. The crest features a raven and the moon. The raven represents transformation, creation, wisdom and knowledge. The moon appears in the mythology of all Northwest Coast nations–it is a guide and protector. 

This Convocation group was represented by students from 66 different countries.  

Just before the new graduates threw their caps in the air, Lisa Collins, UCW’s Vice President, Student Experience, encouraged students “to reflect on your tremendous achievements during your time as students, as well as on how each of you has grown and changed as a result of this rewarding life experience.” 

“As students, you not only earned a credential, but you have also contributed to the learning of others. In so doing, you have enriched our vibrant learning community.  As alumni, you now share a lifelong relationship with each other, and with us, as co-creators of our University as a very special place.” 

For more on UCW Fall 2024 Convocation, read the stories below: