Welcome to SFU’s October 2023 convocation ceremonies! It is wonderful to mark this milestone with you.

As I reflect on this occasion, I am reminded of the important role that community plays in our lives. I feel very lucky to be part of the SFU community, especially during convocation. I love the energy we create together in Convocation Mall as we cheer each other on, lift each other up and celebrate our collective success.  

You graduate into a world full of change and uncertainty; one with many complex challenges and few easy answers. But I truly believe that the skills you’ve learned and the relationships you’ve formed here at SFU, whether with classmates, faculty or staff, will help carry you throughout the rest of your life.

Wherever you go from here, please know that the SFU community will always be in your corner, cheering you on. We are so proud of you.

From all of us, our heartfelt congratulations.

Tamara Vrooman, O.B.C., LLD (hon.)
Chancellor 

Over the past months, I have spent a lot of time thinking about the future. Not just about what’s next for SFU, but about the world—what’s next for all of us in the years ahead.

We are living through a period of intense change and uncertainty. There is a lot of doom and gloom out there! But I have always believed that paths to the future are not found, they are created—created by people like you. In fact, I’ve seen first-hand your ability to create change in the world. Students have pushed us to make Reconciliation a priority, to tackle the climate emergency head-on and to build more equitable, inclusive campuses where all can thrive. This is work that I know you will continue, no matter where you go next.

As you mark this important moment with friends, family and all those who helped you along the way, please know that whatever path you choose, SFU will always be here for you. I’m so grateful for everything you brought to the university, and excited for the future you will help to create.

On behalf of everyone at SFU—thank you, and congratulations.

Joy Johnson, PhD, FCAHS, FRSC
President and Vice-Chancellor

As co-chair of SFU’s Alumni Council, I congratulate you on graduating from SFU! This is an accomplishment that has taken significant time, energy, and support to achieve.

As your journey continues as an SFU alumnus, SFU is here to help you expand your personal and professional network through our alumni events and initiatives, and to support your success by offering a selection of alumni benefits that include career services, library services, and preferred rates on programs that address your personal and professional interests and development.

Please keep your email and mailing addresses up to date with SFU so we can help you make and maintain connections, inform you of upcoming events, and let you know about opportunities to remain involved and engaged with our great university.

Like any strong community, we take pride in your accomplishments—so please keep us informed of your life journey, and watch our social media channels for information on the accomplishments of fellow grads.

Alumni are SFU’s greatest ambassadors; thank you in advance for helping to showcase the value of your SFU education and the impact that it will have as you engage the world.

Congratulations, fellow alumni!

You can learn more about your alumni benefits at www.sfu.ca/alumni.

Pat Lougheed, BSc ‘04, MEd ‘12
Co-Chair, SFU Alumni Council