The University of Lethbridge will once again celebrate the accomplishments of its graduating students in a virtual setting this spring by holding Spring 2021 Convocation online.

While the province gradually moves toward reopening society, large public gatherings are still not possible for the foreseeable future, prompting the University to maintain its focus on providing students the best online celebration experience possible.

“This is certainly not the way we want to celebrate Convocation. We love the in-person experience, the ability to personally congratulate each student as they walk the stage, to feel the emotion in the building, and to see the support of our graduates’ friends and families as they take this momentous step forward in their lives,” says Mike Mahon, U of L President and Vice-Chancellor. “This will be our third virtual celebration, and while not ideal, our staff and faculty throughout the University continue to work to make this a meaningful event that rightfully recognizes our students’ significant achievements.”

In June, graduating students will receive a special package from the University. Inside, they will find ceremonial items such as their cap, tassel and parchment, and for those who are graduating with distinction or great distinction, they will also receive their honour cords. A celebration video will be shared with all graduates, and the University’s social media accounts will be dedicated to highlighting the achievements of the spring graduating class, inviting students to share their celebrations from home using the #ulethgrad2021 and #ulethalumni tags.

The blueprint for the virtual celebration was established for Spring 2020 Convocation by U of L faculty and staff in consultation with graduating students. The Fall 2020 Convocation followed the same general framework and this spring’s celebration will build off the successes of those two celebrations.

“I know our working groups will do their absolute best to make Spring 2021 Convocation a momentous occasion for our graduates and their families,” adds Charles Weaselhead, the University’s Chancellor. “We also want to reiterate the invitation remains open for three years after in-person celebrations resume, all of our graduates are welcome to return to campus and participate in convocation so we can personally congratulate them on their achievement.”