Not only is UBC Okanagan celebrating its 20-year anniversary, but its observing 20 years of growth at this year's graduation ceremonies on June 5 and 6.
This year, more than 2,600 students are graduating, a new school record. To compare, the school had 3,500 total in its first year - 2005. Today, the school has nearly 12,000 undergraduate and graduate students enroled in 137 programs.
“Graduation is always exciting, but here at UBC Okanagan, where we’re a close-knit community, it’s truly special,” said UBCO principal and deputy vice-chancellor, Dr. Lesley Cormack. “Our exceptional programs, research opportunities for students, and commitment to student success help foster an inclusive and empowering environment. The heartfelt cheers at graduation come from the fact that everyone genuinely knows and cares for each other.”
Included in the students graduation is a first this year - the first group of five students who are graduating with their Bachelor of Nłeʔkepmx Language Fluency degrees.
“Language and culture are deeply intertwined,” Cormack added. “Preserving and revitalizing the precious Indigenous languages of British Columbia is essential to reconciliation and reversing the harms of past attempts to erase Indigenous cultures. I’m incredibly proud of our inaugural BNLEK graduates for their perseverance and deeply grateful to the dedicated faculty, staff and community partners who bring this program to life.”
Elders, Chiefs, board of governors, dignitaries, faculty, family, friends, and other students were all in attendance for the ceremonies.
