KAMLOOPS – Thompson Rivers University’s Williams Lake campus celebrates convocation Friday, May 27th. The first graduates to receive TRU degrees, diplomas and certificates will cross the convocation platform beginning at 5:30 pm at the Cariboo Bethel Church, 833 Western Avenue.

After the piper pipes in the procession, Natalie Johannesen, TRU Arts student and daughter of TRU WL counsellor Sharon Munk, will sing O Canada, accompanied by Williams Lake pianist Marlene DiMarco. Williams Lake Dean Rob Anderson will open the proceedings, and TRU board of governors member Kari Gertzen, TRU President and Vice-Chancellor Roger Barnsley, Joan Gentles, First Nations representative, Williams Lake mayor Rick Gibson, and TRU Alumni Association Chair Denise Harper will extend welcoming remarks and congratulations. Following a short performance by Johannesen and DiMarco, valedictorian Andrea Elzinga will deliver an address to her 106 fellow graduands.

Elzinga, who graduates with Business Management Certificate, is president of the Williams Lake Daybreak Rotary club. An avid horseback rider, she is also a member of the Williams Lake Rodeo Association. Raised in Williams Lake, she graduated from Columneetza Secondary School in 1988, and earned a microcomputer certificate before enrolling in the business program. She plans to continue her business studies, and complete a Bachelor of Business Administration degree.

After Elzinga’s address, the graduands will receive their credentials. Anderson will wrap up with final remarks, and the Nenqayni Drummers will accompany the convocation recession. Refreshments for dignitaries, graduates and guests will be served following the ceremony.

For more information, please contact Bronwen Scott by phone at 250-828-5739 or email.