For a second straight year, UNBC is deciding to host a virtual convocation celebration for its up-and-coming graduating class due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The decision to hold the virtual ceremony on June 25 for the Class of 2021 was made as the Prince George post-secondary continues to follow strict provincial, federal and international health guidelines that prohibit indoor gatherings of people who do not belong in the same household and that require mandatory physical distancing.
UNBC explains all graduates, including those who attend campuses in Prince George, Terrace, Wilp Wilxo’oskwhl Nisga’a, Fort St. John and Quesnel, can participate in the virtual ceremony.
The 2020 convocation was also done online as a result of the pandemic.
“Even though vaccinations are happening throughout B.C., it’s still not safe for us to hold large gatherings on campus,” said President and Chancellor (Interim) Dr. Geoff Payne in a news release this morning (March 15).
“We must continue to be diligent in following public safety protocols to stop the spread of the disease. The health and safety of our students, graduates, staff and faculty are of utmost concern. It is also important that we celebrate and recognize the achievements of our graduates. This virtual ceremony allows us to reduce health risks for our UNBC community.”
UNBC says participating in a virtual ceremony allows graduates to stay engaged by personalizing a graduation message, video or photo.
All graduates will have their name and degree called, the school adds.
Even if they do not upload personal content and regardless of the modifications being made to the event, students will still graduate and receive their parchment.
“We understand this is a difficult and challenging time for all of our students, especially those in the Class of 2021 as they complete their final year and a half of their degrees in alternate delivery modes,” said Payne.
“We appreciate their understanding and patience to adapt in this rapidly evolving situation. The Convocation Office will be holding focus groups with students to get feedback and find additional ways to safely celebrate our students this year. Along with their families and friends and on behalf of the entire UNBC community, we congratulate them on their outstanding achievements.”
UNBC is currently offering most courses through alternative delivery modes but based on the advice from Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry is preparing for a full return to on-campus education in September.
To date, Northern Health has recorded 5,101 lab-confirmed infections for COVID-19, which has included 110 deaths linked to the virus.
There are currently 311 active cases, nine people admitted into critical care among 14 hospitalizations and 4,667 recoveries.
