In a week full of pageantry, pride and emotion, more than 5,200 Carleton University graduates received their degrees over 15 convocation ceremonies held from June 12 to 16. The newly minted alumni celebrated an important milestone in their Carleton journey alongside fellow students, family and friends at the university’s Athletics Fieldhouse.
In addition to celebrating the graduates, Carleton bestowed honorary degrees upon seven distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to their respective fields and Canadian society. Each recipient was commended for their exemplary achievements and had the opportunity to speak to the Class of 2023.
Janice Charette, who will be retiring from her position of Clerk of the Privy Council and Secretary to Cabinet next week after a 40-year career, accepted her honorary degree at the June 13 morning ceremony. She offered words of advice and encouragement to the graduating class.
“Remember you are more than a sum of what you have learned these last few years,” she said. “Be open to opportunities and you may find yourself places that you never expected. Keep growing and never stop learning. Do what you love and don’t settle.”
Carleton President and Vice-Chancellor, Benoit-Antoine Bacon gave the closing remarks for each ceremony. He congratulated graduates and commended them for their hard work and perseverance.
“Class of 2023, you will always be a special class. You came through a world-wide pandemic and got your degrees with flying colours,” Bacon said. “You developed skills and habits that will serve you so well as you build the beautiful cathedral of your life on the solid foundation of your Carleton degree.”
“You should be exceptionally proud, and we are exceptionally proud of you!”
A digital recording of each ceremony will be made available on this webpage in the coming days, and a gallery of photos can be viewed below. Read convocation stories here.
Monday, June 19, 2023 in Convocation, Convocation 2023
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