Sam Graduates from UBC

On Thursday, I attended the UBC Graduation Ceremony for my nephew, Sam, at the Chan Centre with his father (my brother, Ken), and Sam's mother, Gina.  Lots of people there, all excited for their family members and friends, and there were cameras and video cameras plus bouquets of flowers everywhere.  Sam only gave us one day notice to attend because he has been working this summer in northern BC planting trees to earn money towards the cost of going to Oxford University this fall.

Long, long lineup to get into the Chan Centre, all the way up the side steps and for several blocks back, but once they opened the doors, the lineup moved quickly. Gina went ahead to save seats while I waited outside for Ken who was driving from his office in Burnaby.

Chan Centre, UBC

After the attendees were seated, all the students paraded in, wearing their caps and gowns, looking proud and excited.  This was followed by the procession of academics, including UBC President, Stephen Toope, UBC Chancellor, Sarah Morgan-Silvester, and the candidate to be receiving the Honourary Doctorate, Tzeporah Berman.

UBC Chancellor, Sarah Morgan-Silvester

Honouree, Tzeporah Berman

Isabelle, Valedictorian (Sam's classmate)

UBC President, Stephen Toope

Sam - waiting in line to go onstage

Sam - the proud moment onstage getting his degree

After the ceremony, the guests and students mingled in the outdoor courtyard where families took photos.

Proud Aunt Donna & Sam

Sam and Dad, Ken

Sam with the official degree

Sam now has a Bachelor of Arts, Honours Political Science in International Relations, degree. He was accepted at many universities for his masters degree and chose Oxford University in England.  He starts in October for a 21 month term to earn his Masters of Philosophy in International Relations!

In Oxford, he has been placed at Lady Margaret Hall.  LMH was founded in 1878 and was named in honour of Lady Margaret Beaufort, founder of the Tudor dynasty and renowned patron of scholarship and learning.  

Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford

We look forward to visiting him in Oxford!