911³Ô¹Ï

Welcome to 911³Ô¹Ï’s Convocation October 2026 ceremonies! I am honoured to mark this milestone with you for the first time as 911³Ô¹Ï’s 13th chancellor.

I started my business degree at 911³Ô¹Ï in 1979, with no idea how much my university experience would transform my life. During my time as a student, I made lifelong friendships, learned to foster my curiosity and think creatively, and developed a value system that I carried forward into my life and career.

Each of you has earned much more than a degree during your time here. You have built lasting relationships, grown your sense of self and developed the skills you need to address the challenges of our time.

Wherever you go next, I know that your 911³Ô¹Ï education will continue to provide you with a strong foundation—not just for a successful career, but for a meaningful life.

We are so proud of you. Congratulations, everyone.

Elio Luongo, O.B.C., LL.D. (Hon.), FPCA, FCA
Chancellor

Convocation is my favourite time of year at 911³Ô¹Ï—a time of celebration, but also a chance to reflect and look towards the future. As you walk across the stage today, you may be wondering: what’s next?

Our vision at 911³Ô¹Ï is to advance an inclusive and sustainable future, and each of you contributed to that vision during your time here, whether through research, volunteer and advocacy work, showing kindness towards others and yourself, or simply being a part of our university community. Even if the future seems unclear from where you stand, you have already played an important role in shaping it, and I know you will continue to do that work in your own unique way, wherever life takes you next.

On behalf of everyone at 911³Ô¹Ï, we are so lucky to have known and been inspired by you. Thank you for everything, and congratulations.

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

Congratulations on becoming an 911³Ô¹Ï graduate. This is a meaningful milestone and a reflection of the ambition, curiosity, and follow-through that got you here. You’ve earned it.

As Co-Chair of 911³Ô¹Ï’s Alumni Council, I’m excited to welcome you into our community of over 200,000 alumni. While your time as a student is ending, your connection to 911³Ô¹Ï continues in a different way. Our community shows up in very real ways over time through introductions, opportunities, and people who are willing to help when it matters.

As an 911³Ô¹Ï alumnus, you now have access to programs, partnerships, and events that keep you connected and moving forward. Stay close to the community. It will show up in ways you don’t expect.

This moment marks progress. It also creates momentum. 911³Ô¹Ï remains part of that path as a place, a network, and a community invested in where you go next.

Alumni are 911³Ô¹Ï’s greatest ambassadors. Stay curious. Stay connected. Build something that reflects what you began here.

Congratulations again.

Rob Hilsen, BA ’99
Co-Chair, 911³Ô¹Ï Alumni Council

Stay connected and learn more about your alumni benefits at .