The ceremony, emceed by College of Nursing dean Dr. Netha Dyck, included remarks by Minister of Health Uzoma Asagwara, grandmother-in-residence Sherry Copenace, and Association of Regulated Nurses of Manitoba executive director Joyce Kristjansson. Dr. Lisa Monkman performed an honour song. 

“The pinning ceremony is not just a time-honoured tradition, but a rite of passage that has been cherished in the nursing community for over a century. It symbolizes not only your academic success, but your commitment to the values, responsibilities and code of ethics of the nursing profession,” Dyck told the 2024 graduating class.  

After receiving their pins, the graduands recited the UM Bachelor of Nursing Pledge, which was inspired by the 1893 Florence Nightingale Pledge and has been adapted by the university. 

Among the graduates was Behnam Behboodinejad, who moved to Winnipeg from Iran with his sisters in 2017. He comes from a family of health-care professionals, and will be working at St. Boniface Hospital, where he completed his last clinical rotation.   

Behboodinejad said one of the highlights of the program was during a clinical rotation when he cared for a patient post-surgery and got to see her progression over the next few days. 

“For me, to see that while caring for her and getting to know her family members was one of the most hopeful moments in my life.” 

He said he is interested in returning to UM to pursue a master’s degree in nursing after gaining some clinical experience. 

Behboodinejad was one of two valedictorians, along with Parneet Kaur, who moved from India to Winnipeg in 2019. She loves working with kids and is looking forward to working in pediatric intensive care. 

The Fall Class of 2024 also had 12 Indigenous graduates, including Justice Spence, who praised the college’s Mahkwa omushki kiim: Pathway to Indigenous Nursing Education (PINE) initiative, which supports First Nations, Métis and Inuit students in, or preparing to enter, the bachelor of nursing program. 

“PINE meant a lot to me on my nursing journey. The tutoring and having our own skills lab made me a lot more comfortable. I think that really contributed to my success because I didn’t always feel safe in the space with everyone else, but I felt very comfortable coming to PINE and working in those spaces,” she said. 

Spence is looking forward to working in emergency at Thompson General Hospital, where she recently completed her practicum. She is also interested in returning to PINE one day to work with future Indigenous nursing students. 

“The students in PINE really understand the meaning of family.” 

At Convocation, the college also had 20 graduates from its master’s program, including 17 from the nurse practitioner stream, and one from its PhD in Nursing program. 

Kristen Valeri

Kristen Valeri is UM’s newest nursing PhD graduate. She has over 30 years of nursing experience in Manitoba, including 10 years as a front-line care worker and 10 years as a first-line manager. Currently she is an executive director for provincial patient safety quality and accreditation at Shared Health.  

Valeri’s thesis was on first-line managers’ perspectives on employee engagement, active disengagement and burnout through the COVID-19 pandemic. She said managers at this level have been identified as key to improving employee engagement; however there is not a lot of research from the perspective of first-line managers. 

“There are lots of benefits to staff engagement – it means better care for patients, a better work environment for staff and numerous better outcomes for organizations, including an increase in staff retention.” 

The mother of two said she’s thankful that the program allowed her to earn her PhD in her home province. 

Adam Flatt [BComm(Hons)/24]

New Bachelor of Commerce alum Adam Flatt completed his undergraduate degree with a double major in supply chain management & logistics and international business. Despite a degree interrupted by pandemic closures, Flatt is grateful for the networking opportunities he had throughout the program, connecting with colleagues and business leaders.

He also completed co-op terms at The Dufresne Group (TDG) as a logistics coordinator, all while balancing his career as a competitive curler.

Flatt shares how the Asper co-op program allowed him to apply knowledge learned in the classroom to the workplace in a way that fit his life and priorities.

“The flexibility of the Asper Co-op program, combined with the support from TDG, enabled me to balance my work with my competitive curling schedule. As a competitive curler traveling across North America to compete in World Curling Tour events, I was able to train and compete at the highest level while still participating fully in the co-op program and gaining valuable skills on the job!”

Flatt recently accepted a new role as Operations Supervisor at Larsen’s Memorial.

Adrian Barreda Rosell [MSCM/24]

Graduating with a Master of Supply Chain Management and Logistics, Adrian Barreda Rosell enrolled in the program to advance his manufacturing background with a focus on improving processes across the workplace. While he looks forward to bringing refined technical knowledge back to work, he also notes that the program offered key leadership insights.

“I really enjoyed the people-oriented courses such as Managing People in Organizations, Executive Leadership Responsibilities, and Negotiations,” he says. “A good understanding of communication and motivation is essential for any leader.”

He is excited to continue his career in manufacturing, bringing an enhanced global supply chain view to his work.

“Being conscious about the unique demands of procurement and manufacturing departments will help me influence collaboration within the organization to increase the competitiveness and agility of the organization and the supply chain I am a part of,” he says.

Gagan Pahuja [MBA/24]

Recent MBA alum Gagan Pahuja has lofty goals of leading in the supply chain management industry in Manitoba, with a particular focus in procurement (a fitting aspiration given his MBA focus areas of supply chain and leadership).

Pahuja joined the MBA program in Fall 2022 and got involved quickly, joining the case competition team for the MBA Games 2023/24, benefiting from the mentorship program, and balancing work as a procurement advisor at Manitoba Hydro for a year during his full-time studies.

As he celebrates convocation this Fall, he reflects on how his varied Asper experience has set him up for success.

“The MBA program has been a rewarding journey that has advanced my career goals by enhancing my business acumen and leadership skills. Through coursework and networking opportunities, I’ve developed valuable analytical and problem-solving abilities. My experiences in case competitions and team projects have further equipped me with the confidence and skills needed to excel in my career path in the supply chain management industry,” he says.

He is already putting his procurement acumen to work close to home in his current role as a Purchasing Consultant with Procurement Services at UM.

Julie Xue [MBA/24]

After beginning her MBA at the Asper School of Business in Fall 2022, Julie Xue found plenty of experiential learning opportunities to enrich her in-class work. This October, she receives her MBA with focus in finance, and she reflects on how the program helped move her professional goals forward.

“As a newcomer and woman in my late thirties, it felt impossible to break into the finance industry in Winnipeg before I pursued my MBA. However, after my Asper experience, anything feels possible. The program has opened a lot of doors for me already!”

Xue completed a co-op term with Grant Thorton and participated in prestigious case competitions (Creative Shock, CFA Research Challenge), where she could develop her critical thinking skills and ability to work under pressure. She graduates feeling ready for more after learning from distinguished guest speakers in her executive leadership course and connecting to the Asper alumni network as well as The Associates and Young Associates.

Marissa Troia [BComm(Hons)/24]

Marissa Troia will receive her Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) degree at Fall Convocation, concluding her Asper student experience even as she stays connected as an alum and debate coach.

Troia, who majored in accounting, filled her years at Asper with involvement through volunteering, co-op, and debate competitions. “The most impactful part of my Asper journey were the extracurriculars I participated in. Not only did they get me out of my comfort zone, but they also enabled me to meet some of my closest friends,” she says.

These experiential learning opportunities seem to have informed Troia’s next steps as a new alum. During her degree, Troia completed three co-op terms with MNP, where she now works as a full-time associate in assurance services, and she will start the CPA program this month.

An avid competitor for ASBAA’s Internal Accounting Case Competition and JDC West, Troia will also join a team of coaches in support of the Team Asper JDC West debate team.

Maureen Agwuncha [MFin/24]

Graduating with a Master of Finance, Maureen Agwuncha is now a member of KPMG’s Corporate Finance team in Winnipeg, where she will be providing financial advisory services to businesses across Canada.

She completed her professional graduate degree in just under a year, taking advantage of the flexible, concentrated programming while still getting involved with Asper Professional Graduate Student Association (APGSA) events and competing in the CFA Business Valuation Case Competition and Creative Shock.

Agwuncha is excited to continue building her career in finance, stating that the Asper MFin has already greatly supported her career goals. “The MFin program has significantly enhanced my visibility on the job market and provided hands-on experience in applying and understanding key finance concepts. I received coaching on navigating the Canadian job market, building meaningful connections, and leveraging existing relationships,” she says. She also plans to pursue CPA exams to further enhance her expertise.

—

With nearly 100 new BComm alumni, and over 70 new alumni from the Stu Clark Graduate School, the Asper School of Business’ alumni community of 22,000 continues to grow. Stay connected as an alum no matter where your education and career take you.

—

UM Bisons are at the centre of it all, making a difference here in Manitoba and around the world. 1,429 degrees are being awarded at Fall Convocation, bringing the number of graduates in the class of 2024 to just over 5,500. Many of these new alumni will stay in Manitoba, contributing high-demand skills to the labour market and injecting nearly $300 million into the province’s economy each year.

The 19 Indigenous teachers from St. Theresa Point comprise the Ansininew Cohort in Inclusion and Reconciliation. They have successfully completed the requirements to receive a Post Baccalaureate Diploma in Education (PBDE) at convocation this October.

The PBDE is an innovative program that responds to professional development needs of educators by fostering collaboration between educators, community stakeholders and academic experts. The cohort-based approach of the program ensures that professional development initiatives are responsive and rooted in local contexts.

The Faculty of Education will hold a special reception for the graduates on October 23.

“It’s definitely something to celebrate!” says Senior Scholar Charlotte Enns, who was recently named Professor Emerita after she retired from the Faculty of Education in May.

Enns worked to implement the program along with other faculty instructors, support staff and administrative staff.

16 of these graduates, along with five other teachers/school administrators from the community have also been accepted to begin an M.Ed. program in Inclusive Education in Fall 2024. 

“The program has exceeded our expectations,” says Enns. “The PBDE program finished their last course in the Summer 2024 term. That means they completed 30 credit hours of coursework in two years while working full-time as teachers. For the master’s program, we were hoping to recruit 10-15 people, so the fact that 21 people were admitted is amazing!”

What stands out for Enns about the program participants is their commitment, and their motivation to improve education for the children and young people they teach. 

“Several of these teachers attended residential schools, or their parents or other family members did, so they are well aware of the changes needed in the education system,” she adds.

‘Establishing relationships and building trust must come first’

Asked what the lessons have been so far, Enns says that those working to implement the program have started to learn just how much our university systems create barriers for these learners. 

“We take for granted that written information on the website, or sent by email, makes things accessible, but we have learned that establishing relationships and building trust must come first,” she notes.

To help with building relationships and trust, the program created a liaison process by identifying key contacts at the university and in the community.

Designing and implementing the program

The program has been designed to respond specifically to community-identified needs, rather than starting from pre-determined requirements. The program structure, courses, and delivery methods are developed through that process.

“We see consulting and collaborating on all decisions, from courses, delivery methods, scheduling and hiring instructors, as essential,” she says. “The relationships built have been critical to the program’s success.”

Educational administrators of St. Theresa Point met to discuss the needs and priorities for their teachers and determined two main areas for professional development:

1. Culturally relevant assessment and instruction, particularly focused on inclusion and academics (literacy);
2. Reconciliation in working with parents/families; history and impact of residential schools; trauma-informed pedagogy.

These areas are also closely aligned with the Faculty of Education’s focus on equity, diversity and inclusion and Indigenous Education, particularly efforts to respond to the TRC Calls to Action.

Working together to make change

Enns emphasizes that this project — like many of the activities focused on Reconciliation in the Faculty of Education — “was motivated and guided by the words of Honourable Murray Sinclair, ‘Education got us into this mess, and education will get us out of it.’”

One of the best ways to promote equal educational opportunities for First Nations students and is by “ensuring that they have well-qualified teachers who can meet the needs of all students in their schools and motivate students to stay in school,” she says.

“We want to work together and make change happen.”

Live stream the ceremony

Convocation details

During convocation October 22, 23, and 31, UM campuses have an atmosphere of excitement, pride and celebration. For anyone attending ceremonies either in person or virtually, the Convocation landing page on umanitoba.ca is the gateway to everything you need to know. Find the ceremony schedules, access the live stream on event day and get information on what to wear and where to park. This is also where you’ll find the Convocation program. Do you want to know the meaning of the coloured stoles and hoods worn by the graduates, or the significance of the Indigenous motifs on the robes worn by the Chancellor and President? You can find that here too!

If you’re a graduating student, you’ll want to check out our 10 tips to make Convocation day a memorable experience. If you are a supporter tuning into ceremonies from home, you’ll want to find out how to use the interactive virtual event platform.

Celebrating student success

One of the best parts of the Convocation celebration is recognizing and honouring student academic achievement. It’s also a time for students to reflect— on what they’ve learned, what has ignited their passions and where they want to go from here. Here are some of their stories:

• Medal-winning students share their journey, advice at Fall Convocation. Alexander Senden’s passion for computer science began in high school. Now he’s graduating with Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) and the Governor General’s Silver Medal. Jimmy Szutu already has a degree in athletic therapy. Now he’s graduating with a Bachelor of Respiratory Therapy and a University Gold Medal. 
• Celebrating the Ansininew Cohort in Inclusion and Reconciliation. 19 Indigenous teachers are graduating with their Post Baccalaureate Diploma in Education this October.
• Two 2024 Vanier scholars are graduating this fall with their master’s degrees in Psychology and are starting PhD programs at UM.  Sydney Levasseur-Puhach plans to develop a culturally specific mental health program for Indigenous mothers based on knowledge gathered from the women themselves. Dallas Murphy aims to resolve the “treatment gap” that sees more people suffering from challenges with their mental health than are being treated.
• Meet five Asper graduates taking the stage at Fall Convocation. Learn how their educational journeys have been enhanced by experiential learning, extracurriculars and mentorship. 
• The College of Nursing welcomes 105 new nurses to the profession. Four graduates reflect on the moments that got them here.

Honorary degrees and other honours

Along with celebrating student achievement, Convocation is a time for the university to recognize honorary degree recipients who have made our province and country better. We also celebrate teaching excellence and outstanding contributions to the development and governance of the University.

At the Fall 2024 ceremony, honorary degrees will be bestowed on:

• Walter and Maria Schroeder, entrepreneurs turned philanthropists who are committed to improving health services for all Canadians and removing barriers so that students can pursue their dreams without financial burden. They will be honoured at the ceremony on Tuesday, October 22 at 2 p.m.
• David T. Barnard, former UM President and Vice-Chancellor who transformed our community through his visionary leadership in advancing Reconciliation, fostering interdisciplinary research and achieving record-breaking philanthropic support. He will be honoured at the ceremony on Wednesday, October 23 at 3 p.m.

Read the UM Today story to learn more about the honorary degree recipients. 

Two faculty members, Dr. Evelyn L. Forget and Dr. Nariman Sepehri, will be named Distinguished Professors. Nandika Bandara will receive the University of Manitoba Graduate Students’ Association Teaching Award.

Congratulations to the class of 2024 and all the award and honorary degree recipients!

UM Bisons are at the centre of it all, making a difference here in Manitoba and around the world. 1,429 degrees are being awarded at Fall Convocation, bringing the number of graduates in the class of 2024 to just over 5,500. Many of these new alumni will stay in Manitoba, contributing high-demand skills to the labour market and injecting nearly $300 million into the province’s economy each year.

Let’s get to know these two students from the fall Class of 2024.

GOVERNOR GENERAL’S SILVER MEDAL

Alexander Senden, Faculty of Science
Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) degree

Senden’s passion for computer science began in high school at Winnipeg’s River East Collegiate where a teacher, Mr. Hildebrandt, sparked his interest in programming by encouraging students to have full creative control over the computer programs they made.

He discovered computer science was “my ideal intersection of mathematics and problem solving, and the abundance of new, interesting problems to work on made it an easy choice.”

Senden is graduating this month with an honours degree in computer science, and has begun a master’s degree at UM in the same subject. His graduate research applies machine learning to reduce herbicide use in agriculture, which he hopes will benefit the environment and Manitoba’s economy.

In completing his bachelor’s degree he says he learned how to be a better problem solver by asking the right questions and breaking down complex challenges.

“I think the key to academic success is to understand how you learn, to build your study habits around what works best for you (not just what you are told you should do), and to not be afraid to try new things … [or] things that seem difficult, whether that be specific courses, professors, or even bigger and more challenging projects. Often the greatest progression comes from the biggest risks. University is a time to take risks in the name of learning, without fear of failure.”

UNIVERSITY OF MANITOBA GOLD MEDAL

Jimmy Szutu, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences
Bachelor of Respiratory Therapy

Szutu, who already has a degree in athletic therapy, chose to pursue respiratory therapy due to growing demand for the profession. He was interested in being able to work in diverse environments like emergency departments and clinics, while combining clinical practice with technology.

Alongside his studies, he worked as a Respiratory Therapy Assistant at the Health Sciences Centre and conducted a literature review comparing non-invasive ventilation methods for premature infants which he presented at RT Research Day.

Being a full-time student with a part-time job, Szutu says it was difficult to maintain a work-life balance. But, the friendships he made inside and outside the classroom, together with his passion for health care, helped him succeed.

Reflecting back, he suggests students learn to not be too hard on themselves. “I think that throughout the program, I was too critical of myself whether it was not attaining a desired grade/percentage on an assignment or exam, or making a mistake while performing a competency during clinical placements. Of course, this way of thinking made me forget about my accomplishments and areas that I excelled or was successful in.”

UM Bisons are at the centre of it all, making a difference here in Manitoba and around the world. 1,429 degrees are being awarded at Fall Convocation, bringing the number of graduates in the class of 2024 to just over 5,500. Many of these new alumni will stay in Manitoba, contributing high-demand skills to the labour market and injecting nearly $300 million into the province’s economy each year.

The honorary degree is the highest honour UM can bestow upon an individual for achieving pre-eminence in science, culture, scholarship, or public service. This year’s recipients have transformed education, health care, and the University of Manitoba. They are President Emeritus David T. Barnard, and Walter and Maria Schroeder.

Walter and Maria Schroeder

Tuesday, October 22 at 2 p.m          

Walter and Maria Schroeder have transformed countless lives through their remarkable philanthropy. Their commitment to education stems from personal experience: Maria was offered financial support to attend the University of Manitoba, an act that shaped her lifelong dedication to removing barriers for students.

After founding Dominion Bond Rating Service in 1975 with just $1,000, the Schroeders built it into the fourth-largest bond-rating agency in the world. Upon selling their business in 2014, they turned to philanthropy, committing over $500 million to various causes, including $5 million annually to Winnipeg’s education system. They plan to commit a total of $1 billion in their lifetime to various causes that benefit Canadians. 

In addition to education, they have invested heavily in health care, with major contributions to arthritis, brain and heart care. Their latest endeavor is the creation of a new, forward-thinking Ambulatory Surgical Centre in Ontario that will transform patient treatment and medical training.

Walter and Maria Schroeder not only desire a better country, but they act on it—always looking for where they can make a difference. They are extraordinary role models whose compassion, vision and generosity have changed our world.

David T. Barnard

Wednesday, October 23 at 3 p.m.

David T. Barnard’s 12-year tenure as President of the University of Manitoba was marked by significant achievements in Reconciliation, research and community building. Early on, he positioned UM as a leader in Indigenous education, making it the first university in Canada to apologize for its role in the residential school system and helping UM be named as host of the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation. He also established the Office of the Vice-President (Indigenous) to foster Indigenous excellence.

Under his leadership, UM saw a 50 per cent increase in research funding and joined the U15 Group of Canadian research-intensive universities. Dr. Barnard also launched the record-breaking Front and Centre Campaign, raising $626 million, and oversaw major infrastructure projects like the Active Living Centre and Southwood Circle. Beyond UM, he served on various boards, influencing higher education across Canada.

David T. Barnard is a scholar, leader, and advocate for the transformative power of higher education who has made enduring contributions to the university and the broader community. 

UM Bisons are at the centre of it all, making a difference here in Manitoba and around the world. 1,429 degrees are being awarded at Fall Convocation, bringing the number of graduates in the class of 2024 to just over 5,500. Many of these new alumni will stay in Manitoba, contributing high-demand skills to the labour market and injecting nearly $300 million into the province’s economy each year.

NAVIGATING THE PLATFORM

On the day of the ceremony you’re attending, visit umanitoba.ca/convocation where you’ll find a link to enter the virtual ceremony. We highly recommend logging in 30 minutes before the ceremony starts. This will give you some time to explore the platform, get familiar with how it works and access all the fun Convocation features and activities.

• Once you log in, you’ll land in the event lobby; think of this as the reception hall. From here, you can find links to anywhere you’d like to go in the event space. If you ever get lost, you can always return to the lobby by clicking the University of Manitoba logo at the top left of your window.
• Start by watching the “Welcome to Convocation” video. Look for the screen that says “Start Here.”
• Then, start exploring by using the navigation boxes at the bottom of the screen or the small menu at the top right of your window.
• The ceremony program can be found on the poster board in the centre right of your screen. The program contains a list of all graduates, award winners, Honorary Degree recipients and messages from UM’s President and Chancellor.
• The live stream will change in real time before each ceremony, so if you log in to the virtual space before or after your event, another ceremony may be streaming. 
• Above all, don’t worry about missing the start of the ceremony. When it’s about to start, a banner will appear on the screen prompting you to head to the main stage. Once the ceremony has started, you can pause it, but you cannot start the ceremony before the posted time.

ENGAGING WITH THE CONTENT

Convocation’s virtual component isn’t just a live stream; it’s an interactive experience! Here are some of the things you can explore on the platform:

• Connect with fellow attendees in real time using the yellow chat button at the bottom right of the screen. To find someone, click on their name or type their name in the chat’s search bar.
• Visit the awards gallery to see the medal winners and teaching award recipients.
• Get to know Honorary Degree recipients by reading their citations.

If you have trouble navigating any part of the virtual platform or experience any technical difficulties, don’t hesitate to ask a question in the live chat and we’ll be happy to assist you.

Congratulations to this year’s class of UM graduates and enjoy your day!

UM Bisons are at the centre of it all, making a difference here in Manitoba and around the world. 1,429 degrees are being awarded at Fall Convocation, bringing the number of graduates in the class of 2024 to just over 5,500. Many of these new alumni will stay in Manitoba, contributing high-demand skills to the labour market and injecting nearly $300 million into the province’s economy each year.

Here are 10 tips to make for a memorable and easy convocation experience:

1. Arrive on time. 
   The Fort Garry ceremonies will be held in the Investors Group Athletic Centre (IGAC). Graduates should report to the James Daly Field House in the Max Bell Centre 60-90 minutes before their ceremony. View the Convocation Day Schedule.
2. Plan what to bring.
   Bring your photo ID to pick up your procession card. We recommend leaving other valuables with a friend or family member.
3. Look your best.
   Convocation is a formal occasion, meaning dress clothes are recommended even under your gown and hood. Please avoid wearing corsages, boutonnieres, fraternity or sorority adornments. Indigenous students can wear traditional Indigenous attire in addition to or instead of the other approved academic regalia (gowns, hoods, etc.). You can also pick up an Indigenous graduation stole at the James Day Field House on the day of your ceremony.
4. Know where to park.
   Complimentary parking is provided in the U Lot and Q Lot (as seen on the Parking Map) on the Fort Garry campus. Accessible parking will also be available in the P lot.
5. Make any necessary arrangements for accessibility support.
   Everyone deserves to have a memorable experience! Contact Student Accessibility Services if you require assistance with seating, ASL interpretation, or other accessibility support.
6. Take graduation photos.
   Photographers will be present for individual and family photograph sessions before and after the ceremony. A photographer will also be capturing the moment you cross the stage.
7. Visit the Alumni photo booths.
   You’re officially an alumni now! Stop by and capture all the moments at one of two digital photo booths in the Fieldhouse after the ceremony (we’ll send you links to the pics!). Use our photo backdrops to take your own, and chat with Alumni staff, Board and volunteers to find out all the cool perks and opportunities available to you as new UM alumni.
8. Include family, friends and loved ones no matter how far away they are.
   We encourage graduates to invite guests, but we kindly ask that you limit your in-person guests to five people. Guests should enter the IGAC and take their seats before the ceremony begins. If you have a guest with mobility issues, they should talk to an usher at the door for seating accommodations. Those unable to attend in person are welcome to tune in virtually by accessing the immersive virtual platform and joining the live stream component.
9. Share the experience.
   Post your pictures and videos using #UManitoba2024 and tag @umanitoba and @umstudent in your Instagram stories for your fellow graduates and the UM community to see!
10. Celebrate! 
    Convocation Day is meant to honour you and your accomplishments while looking forward to the future ahead of you. Join up with family and friends in the James Daly Fieldhouse after the ceremony to enjoy the reception. Hosted by the Alumni Association, the celebration will include music, lots of fabulous photo ops, refreshments and more!

To stay up to date on what to expect on convocation day, visit umanitoba.ca/convocation.

UM Bisons are at the centre of it all, making a difference here in Manitoba and around the world. 1,429 degrees are being awarded at Fall Convocation, bringing the number of graduates in the class of 2024 to just over 5,500. Many of these new alumni will stay in Manitoba, contributing high-demand skills to the labour market and injecting nearly $300 million into the province’s economy each year.

University of Manitoba Gold Medal in Management

William Cruise – BComm (Hons) – Accounting

Like many 2024 graduates, William Cruise’s early years in university took place in the context of remote learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting public health measures.

In his first year of study, Cruise completed a research assistantship with Chi Liao (later named The Associates Fellow in Finance), and throughout his degree, he focused on developing his academic skillset, cultivating a strong work ethic built on consistency and discipline and advancing his technical knowledge in subjects like accounting and finance.

He looks back on his final four semesters with fondness, as he was then able to participate in the social life of the school in-person. One of the main highlights of his degree was joining the Asper Co-op Program.

“Not only did it allow me to bridge my academic learning by applying it to the workplace, but it also gave me a taste of the various career paths within accounting and finance,” he says.

After completing his first co-op placement at Parrish and Heimbecker, Cruise began a second placement at Ernst & Young (EY). Since completing his degree, he has continued work at EY while pursuing his CPA designation.

From an early fascination with business and watching his parents model the value of hard work, Cruise hopes to take his new perspectives on business into the Winnipeg community.

“This means implementing sustainable business practices and supporting local community projects with a holistic perspective, considering the social and environmental stakeholders in all decisions,” he explains.

“I believe that our graduating class has the ability to help Winnipeg businesses foster economic growth, but also become agents of positive change.”

University of Manitoba Silver Medal in Management

Emily Gibson – BComm (Hons) – Accounting, Finance

With a double major in accounting and finance, Emily Gibson worked hard to make connections during her BComm despite pursuing it remotely for much of the first part of her degree.

In the summer of 2021, she became an orientation volunteer. “I tried to make the best of it,” she explains, in reference to COVID-19 restrictions. “It was rewarding to help new Asper students make the transition into university life, while getting to know fellow volunteers.”

Gibson continued in this vein, becoming a member of the Asper School of Business Accounting Association (ASBAA) to connect with fellow accounting students and attending the Business Banquet every year to network with the broader Asper student community and the local business community.

This May, she began work at the Office of the Auditor General of Manitoba as a student auditor and is excited to begin pursuing her CPA designation in the fall.

University of Manitoba Bronze Medal in Management

Mitchell Klassen – BComm (Hons) – Accounting

Mitchell Klassen began his studies with a business administration diploma at Red River Polytechnic and joined the Asper School of Business in 2021 via the program’s articulation pathway with the college.

He graduated from Asper this year with a major in accounting and is the recipient of the Bronze Medal in Management. Klassen expresses how his experience at the Asper School of Business was as much about the coursework as it was the overall quality of the environment where he was learning. He describes the beauty of the campus and how enjoyable it was to simply be at Asper and UM.

“I always wanted to go to the University of Manitoba when I was looking into attending post-secondary, and the fact that I actually got to go meant a lot to me. I thoroughly enjoyed my entire experience at UM, and specifically Asper,” he says.

He recalls professors, mentioning Associate Dean (Undergraduate and International) Robert Biscontri in particular, who connected with students and had a unique approach to teaching a variety of subjects.

Klassen now looks forward to beginning his career in public accounting and entering the CPA program in the fall. He has even thought about returning to pursue an MBA at the Stu Clark Graduate School.

“Whichever path I choose, I am excited for what the future holds, and I could easily see myself returning to UM in the near future!”

—

Congratulations to the 2024 Asper medal winners!

Learn more about staying connected as one of over 22,000 Asper School of Business alumni here.

Good evening everyone,

I am truly honoured to stand before you tonight representing the Robson Hall Class of 2024. When I was chosen as Valedictorian, I could not have been more thrilled – then I realized I actually had to write a speech. The daunting task of capturing three tumultuous, yet rewarding, years of law school in just a few minutes seemed impossible.

Naturally, I turned to a highly academic and respected source for inspiration – the movie Legally Blonde. For those who may not know, the story follows Elle Woods, a sorority girl who attends Harvard Law School. At first, Elle is a fish completely out of water, questioning her place among classmates who seem to have credentials much beyond her. This feeling resonates with many of us, bringing to mind the all-too-familiar term “imposter syndrome” – a phrase I have heard more in these past three years than in my entire life combined. “Am I supposed to be here? Am I as capable as my incredibly intelligent, charismatic, and driven peers?”

I wanted to share a personal story with you. Not many people know that after my first-year of law school, I faced significant mental health challenges and seriously considered not continuing with my studies. The weight of the workload, the constant self doubt, and the mounting pressure to measure up made me question whether I could continue in this profession. I vividly remember a conversation I had with Rosa about what it would look like to take some time off or even discontinue my studies altogether.

Standing here today, I cannot fully express how grateful I feel to have reached this milestone. I owe so much to the incredible people in this room who believed in me, even when I struggled to believe in myself. What makes this graduating class so special is our unwavering support for one another through both the good times and the bad. As we prepare to enter a challenging and demanding profession, it’s natural to feel hesitant about the uncertainties that lie ahead. However, if our time here has taught us anything, it’s that we are strong enough to overcome obstacles. So, to my fellow graduates, if you find yourself doubting, as I have, whether you belong here, remember this: you are resilient, capable, and deserving of every success that comes your way. Most importantly, you are never alone. Together, we are about to step into the world armed with more than just a degree, but with a wealth of  shared challenges and triumphs that have prepared us for whatever the future holds.

As we reflect on our journey from anxious first-year students to confident soon-to-be graduates, it’s amazing to see how much we’ve changed and grown. For all the graduates here, I encourage you to take a moment and think back to our first day, where torts were merely desserts and the bar was a place to be visited on a Saturday night. It’s September 3^rd, 2021, and you’re sitting at your computer eagerly awaiting our online Zoom orientation. How overwhelmed we felt as we juggled syllabus after syllabus, met our professors, and yes, got our first assignment. We arrived as individuals with diverse aspirations and backgrounds, and we’ve become a cohesive group of skilled professionals.

Let me share some of the highlights that define our graduating class:

• We navigated the challenges of both online and in-person learning. While confined to those little boxes on the Zoom screen, we mastered the art of muting and unmuting at just the right moments and making sure our top half looks impeccable while secretly wearing pajama pants. When we finally transitioned back to the classroom, it was a another adjustment – with the help of free coffee from the common room, we had to relearn how to engage face-to face and manage the dynamics of a physical classroom environment. This unique blend of experiences not only tested our adaptability, but also strengthened our resilience, preparing us to handle any professional challenge with flexibility and grace.
• We didn’t just study; we excelled. Publishing legal articles, winning legal writing awards, and proving our tenacity and spirit in competitions, from negotiations to moot courts. Don’t just take it from me – Team Manitoba has literally won the “Spirit of the Laskin” award for two consecutive years. Not to mention, our law games team can now proudly add “Talent Cup Champions” to their resumes and the Robson Hall Jets hockey team has remained undefeated at the Cross Border Classic hockey tournament.
• We wholeheartedly embraced opportunities to hone our practical skills through our dedicated involvement in clinics, externships, and clerkships. These invaluable experiences, such as assisting with the process of law creation and reform, working with judges in the courtroom, and representing real clients who might otherwise lack access to legal support, allowed us to step beyond the classroom and apply our knowledge in meaningful, impactful ways.
• Under our leadership, clubs and committees at Robson Hall thrived. Our graduating class has spearheaded impactful conferences, planned extensive networking events, and organized social activities that further knitted our community together. The Social Committee did such a great job planning last years Carbolic Smoke Ball that the Forty Garry hotel might not let us back again! Thanks to the Business Law Group, Robson Hall now offers students the opportunity to participate in The Art Braid Business Law Case Competition, which has been a huge success for two years. The Communications Committee took on the daunting task of revamping our social media accounts and created an entirely new website. Members of our own Manitoba Indigenous Law Students Association have been elected to the National level, showcasing our leadership on a broader scale. These achievements are by no means exhaustive, but they reflect the dedication and collaborative spirit of our class, leaving a lasting legacy for future students at Robson Hall.
• Above all, we’ve learned the importance of trusting ourselves. We’ve built confidence in our legal instincts and analytical skills, understanding that our worth extends far beyond the accolades we accumulate. The true measure of our value lies in the resilience we’ve developed and the integrity we bring to every challenge. While our achievements may open doors, it is our recognition that each person’s well-being is just as important as their professional growth that makes our class unique.

If I could highlight one final thing about the Robson Hall class of 2024, it is our commitment  to showing up. We’ve shown up to every Carbolic, Med-Law, bomber game, law banquet, wine and cheese; even during a global pandemic. We show up academically. I remember talking to lawyers who would be impressed that our cohort is “so involved”, which is just another word for major keeners.

Above all, we show up for each other. Our time at Robson Hall has been more than just lectures and exams; it’s been about forging lasting friendships, sharing both laughter and tears, and embracing every moment. Beyond simply being classmates, we’ve become a community of friends who support each other through difficult times and celebrate each others successes. This is what truly defines our graduating class – we stand together, ready to take on the world.

Of course, none of this would have been possible without a league of extraordinary people who have made this day a reality.

To our friends and family – you’ve listened to endless rants and talked us off many ledges. Your love, encouragement, and sacrifice have been the backbone of our law school experience. We owe you more thanks than can be covered by our future lawyer salaries, and we are forever grateful for your unwavering support. A mi familia, gracias y los quiero mucho.

Thank you to our esteemed faculty and staff. Your dedication has made us more knowledgeable, thoughtful, and yes, even more opinionated. Because of you, Robson Hall has been more than a school; it’s been our community. Here, professors are not just educators, they are mentors and advocates for our success. Robson Hall has prepared us to be excellent lawyers; but it has also taught us the value of hard work, of compassion, and of building something greater together.

And finally, to the extraordinary Class of 2024. What a ride it’s been! From our first Zoom call where we nervously adjusted our screens, to this moment. Whether our paths take us to the corridors of the Supreme Court, the boardrooms of major corporations, or even on a spaceship to Mars with Elon Musk, I am forever grateful to have shared this journey with you.

Although our time at Robson Hall is ending, I am confident that our impact on this profession is just beginning. Let’s embrace this new chapter and show the world the power of showing up — not just as lawyers, but as unwavering supporters and compassionate friends. Here’s to us and our future, may it be as bright and ambitious as the class that stands ready to embrace it. 

Thank you.