Digital journalism graduate Karin Nishiwaki

By Kim Van Haren

As the vibrant colours of fall envelope the Thompson Rivers University (TRU) Kamloops campus, the 2024 Fall Convocation ushers in a season of change and new beginnings.

Held at the Tournament Capital Centre, this significant event brings together faculty, staff, families and friends to celebrate the graduates’ accomplishments, dedication and hard work.

President Brett Fairbairn acknowledged the effort, time and energy invested by the graduates in their education, adding that education changes lives.

“The statistics are irrefutable of how you will benefit personally from your education,” he said.

Graduate Carlos Tajan

Addressing the graduating students, Fairbairn highlighted the benefits of education and the crucial role it plays in helping others, contributing positively to society and helping to drive change in a world with many uncertainties and challenges.

“Your education makes possible changes in the world, in the lives of others, through the skills you learn and through the role and the vocation that you will take on in the future. As graduates, what you can do matters, and it matters now more than ever.

“You got to this stage because you met every challenge, and I’m sure that you faced many. Remember this success when you face any challenges and remind yourself of your courage, strength, skills and resilience to overcome life’s adversities.”

Master of Arts in Human Rights and Social Justice graduate Caoimhe Laird

Graduate reflections

When asked for their best advice for incoming students, graduates shared these insights:

Digital journalism graduate Karin Nishiwaki suggested everyone should make the most of their student journey. “Go outside. Don’t stay inside too much. Enjoy your time as a student.”

Graduate Carlos Tajan hoped new students stay open-minded. “There is a lot of diversity here and it’s a beautiful thing. You get to see and meet different people from different backgrounds. Try to make the most of it.”

Graduate Minhaj Khan

Master of Arts in Human Rights and Social Justice graduate Caoimhe Laird urged students to savour the splendour of the great outdoors. “Embrace the natural beauty that is in Kamloops and around Kamloops! It is super rare to live in a place where you can access nature and the outdoors.”

Graduate Minhaj Khan encouraged students to persevere. “Hang in there! Keep going with the flow. It can get hard sometimes to manage your studies and work, but you will get through it.” 

By the numbers

Here’s what Fall Convocation 2024 looked like by the numbers:

• 905 – Credentials presented (certificates, diplomas, baccalaureates and degrees)
• 879 – Graduates
• 97 – Programs
• 34 – Countries (including Canada)
• 39 – Staff/assistants behind the scenes