Elva Lee Fisher is University Canada West’s Valedictorian for Spring 2024.
“Each of us had to overcome unique challenges to be here today. Many of you have travelled great distances and have been away from loved ones as you earned your degree,” she told the graduating students in her valedictorian address.
“Whatever obstacle you faced, you overcame it. Today is the day to recognize the strength and power you have within yourself to accomplish great things.”
Elva was born and raised in Alberta. She now lives in Cochrane, Alberta, a town about an hour from the Rocky Mountains.
She decided to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Business Communication degree online at UCW after pausing her career as an Occupational Therapy Assistant when her children were young.
Elva earned her Occupational Therapy Assistant diploma at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology and shortly thereafter was working with autistic children by supporting them in enhancing communication, social skills, sensory integration and behavioural management.
After moving to a role with Alberta Health Services, she paused her career to focus on her family.
When her youngest child started preschool, she realized that she wanted to make a change and find a career path that would allow her to improve her writing and showcase her creativity.
With three young children at home, Elva needed to find a degree that she could pursue online around her busy schedule. That is when she discovered the Bachelor of Arts in Business Communication degree program at UCW. She graduated with distinction after earning a 4.13 CGPA.
Despite finishing her coursework, Elva is still involved with UCW and is currently assisting Professor Wahiba Chair in a study about using X, formerly known as Twitter, as a learning tool for international students.
She currently volunteers as a social media coordinator for the ARK (Accessibility Renovations for Kids) charity. ARK reshapes the world of kids struggling with mobility in their homes by providing home renovations for them and their families.
Being so close to the mountains, she enjoys hiking, bike riding, snowshoeing and camping time with her husband and children.
“I’m excited about starting my professional career in communications because it is a field where I can be creative and strive to build understanding and relationships through the power of words,” she said.
“I view words as having a magical power that, when applied with care, can convey compelling narratives, evoke emotions and problem-solve complex challenges.”
