President's Message

The skirling of the pipes, the procession across the pond, the conferring of degrees:  Convocation at Simon Fraser University is a glorious ritual and a most suitable recognition of an academic job well done.

I join with your family and friends—and the other generous souls who supported you throughout your university journey—in applauding this important accomplishment. 

You leave here today with a significant credential.  SFU is one of Canada’s leading universities, recognized at home and abroad for equipping students with the knowledge, skills and experiences to succeed in a challenging and ever-changing world.       

“Education,” as poet W.B. Yeats observed, “is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” I see that flame burning brightly in each of your eyes today—a fire that will sustain you in the years to come.

Hearty congratulations to our newest graduates, and thank you all for being part of this happy occasion.

Andrew Petter
President and Vice-Chancellor

Chancellor’s Message

On behalf of Simon Fraser University, I am honoured to welcome you to Convocation.

The seeds of this exciting day were sown almost five decades ago when 2,500 bright young minds crossed the threshold of this fledgling institution on September 9, 1965. Those first students, and the scholars who mentored them, embraced a commitment to discovery, diversity and dialogue that still distinguishes SFU.

Look around Convocation Mall and you will see the youthful, creative energy that launched SFU still flourishes. We have grown not just in size but also in spirit. Our three campuses now welcome more than 30,000 students each year, and our newest graduates will join an alumni family that numbers more than 120,000 and spans the globe. 

Today is the moment to mark a job well done, a time to celebrate the effort and accomplishments of our students. But this is no farewell.

Tomorrow—or at least, one day soon—we will look forward to welcoming these graduates back. Because we know this ceremony is really just a well-appointed way station along the road to lifelong learning and engagement. Travel well.

Carole Taylor
Chancellor

Alumni Association Message

As President of SFU’s Alumni Association I wish to compliment you on achieving your academic goal and welcome you to our dynamic and diverse community of over 120,000 alumni in 130 countries.

At Convocation, a fellow graduate will award you as SFU alumni pin, a symbol of your Association membership.  Your membership entitles you to numerous benefits and services.  Please visit our alumni website for details: www.sfu.ca/alumni.html.

On life’s journey, your Alumni Association will be here to keep you informed and involved in the future of SFU.  Join our Online Directory, other social media groups and register for alumni email forwarding to stay updated on your benefits, opportunities and unique events.

Like any community, we take pride in your accomplishments. We invite you to stay connected, share your latest achievements and to be our ambassadors to the world showing how your SFU education is making a difference. 

Congratulations, fellow alumni!

Chris Hilliard, BA ’88, BA ’06
President, SFU Alumni Association