Ana Ponce Rodriguez is University Canada West’s Valedictorian for Fall 2023.
“Looking back, we should feel proud that we made it to this day, our graduation,” she said in her convocation address. “Through hard work and determination, we earned our degrees and have become better professionals and significantly better human beings.”
Born and raised in Peru, Ana decided to pursue a second master’s degree after managing supply chain operations and spearheading transformative initiatives for leading consumer, pharmaceutical and consulting firms for 21 years.
She was a local partner and general manager of a supply chain consulting firm with projects in Peru, Chile and Central America.
As an entrepreneur, she owned a healthy food brand and a production company with her husband.
In her previous schooling, Ana earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from University of Lima in Peru and a Master’s in Supply Chain Management and Technologies from University Ramon Llull in Spain.
She came to Canada with her husband Franco and her son Mauricio to pursue an MBA at University Canada West. She visited Vancouver several years ago and fell in love with the city and its people.
“We started a new chapter in our lives that was filled with uncertainty: a new language, a new city, a new home, new friends and a future that was ours to shape,” she said in her address.
“For many of us, I’m sure it was a mix of excitement and fear. It was a rollercoaster of emotions. We dared to make this bold decision that would open the doors to a new adventure.”
She graduated with distinction after earning an impressive 4.15 CGPA, but was not expecting to be named Valedictorian.
“It caught me by surprise, but I feel honoured and grateful for the opportunity,” she said.
Ana is currently working in the Supply Planning Area of STEMCELL Technologies, a Canadian company that is a worldwide leader in biotechnology. They create innovative products to help scientists improve medical research.
Despite earning two master’s degrees and establishing a successful career, her learning is never done. Ana is currently studying to get the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. She is enrolled in a three-year program with the Canadian Supply Chain Association and is also continuing to learn French.
Music is Ana’s passion. She came from a family of musicians and singers and started singing in commercials for the family business when she was five years old. She has maintained her connection to music and theatre throughout her life. She was part of a female choir in Peru that performed locally and internationally. In Canada, she joined the Westcoast Harmony Chorus, an a cappella group that performs concerts and at numerous contests.
Wrapping up her convocation address, Ana shared some advice for the graduating class.
“We are privileged to have earned a university degree and now we are responsible for making a difference and making our world and communities a better place,” she said. “Let’s find our purpose and leave our mark. Let’s put our passion into everything we do.”
You can see more about Fall 2023 Convocation, including pictures and ceremony videos, here.
Published on October 25, 2023.
