Booth University College Celebrates 43rd Convocation with Dignitaries, Heartfelt Speeches, and Honored Graduates

Booth University College proudly hosted its 43rd Spring Convocation Ceremony at Knox United Church in Winnipeg on April 27^th 2025, marking a day of inspiration, satisfaction, and new beginnings. The ceremony was attended by distinguished dignitaries from all levels of government and The Salvation Army, celebrating the achievements of the Class of 2025. Among the Salvation Army leaders in attendance were Booth University College Chancellor, Commissioners Lee Graves, Commissioner Debbie Graves who gave the message at this year’s Baccalaureate’s service, and Colonel John Chamness, the chief secretary of Canada and Bermuda territories, as well as Booth University College Board Chair David Michel, among many others.

The event began with a moving land acknowledgment, recognizing Booth UC’s location on Treaty One Territory and affirming its ongoing commitment to truth and reconciliation with Indigenous communities.

Recognition of Dignitaries and Special Guests

In attendance were notable leaders who extended greetings and encouragement to the graduates:

• Hon. Terry Duguid, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, on behalf of the Government of Canada, praised Booth UC for cultivating leaders rooted in compassion and community service, stating, "Your education is grounded in the values we need now more than ever across Canada and the world."
• Jennifer Chen, MLA for Fort Richmond, representing the Province of Manitoba, commended graduates for their resilience, adding, "As an immigrant and former international student, I understand the pride of this moment. Booth UC graduates are global citizens with local and global impact."
• Deputy Mayor Markus Chambers, representing the City of Winnipeg, urged graduates to embrace their futures boldly: "Graduation is not the end — it is the beginning. Carry forward the lessons, relationships, and compassion you cultivated here."

Other special guests included representatives from the University of Manitoba, the Winnipeg School Division, the Canadian Museum of Human Rights, and Salvation Army leadership from across Canada and Bermuda.