The month of June marks a special time for many families in our community.
Each year, I typically get to see students walk across the stage in their caps and gowns to accept their diplomas, surrounded by loving parents, grandparents, and teachers.
This year, as students graduate from high school, college, and university, I know that our current circumstances prevent them from having the traditional graduation ceremonies we have had in the past.
The COVID-19 pandemic has been challenging for many different reasons, and not being able to be together for these important milestones is certainly one of them.
Over the past 15 months, our students have had to be flexible, adapting to a once-in-a-generation pandemic. I know that completing their studies online and missing out on celebrations with friends and family has been incredibly difficult.
Despite this, our newest grads are more resilient than ever before, taking with them a new set of skills and knowledge that few others have learnt before them.
To our 2021 spring graduates — congratulations on all your achievements. Despite the many challenges that have been thrown your way, you have overcome them and worked hard to be where you are today.
You should be immensely proud of all that you have accomplished. I hope that you continue to bring your strong determination and commitment to the new endeavours that lie ahead.
Please take time to celebrate and reflect on the many years of hard work you have put in to receive your diplomas. As you do so, be sure to reach out to your community and thank them for all they have done to support you. Your families, friends, teachers, coaches and mentors have all supported you along the way and are part of your success today.
As you move on to new adventures, experiences and opportunities, I know that your future is bright with promise.
I look forward to seeing how you will use your talents and newfound resilience to make our community and our world a better place.
As seen in the Sou'Wester & the Lance on July 1, 2021.
