Coronavirus update: April 14, 2020 - 5:30 p.m.

April 14, 2020

I trust you had some time over the weekend to refresh a bit before the final push to the end of this semester. It is hard to believe we are into the second month since my first update to the UNBC community. As I spent time on my bike (indoors) this weekend, I reflected on how much all has changed for us. I know the days are challenging at times, especially as we transition into spring and wanting to get outside and connect. Like you, I want things to return to normal and they will; I know it!

In today’s update:

A Convocation Update

I want to provide some clarity for people based on feedback and questions we have received about graduation and convocation. First, it is important to recognize that those two words do not mean the same thing. Once students have completed the necessary course work and grade requirements to graduate in their degree program, Senate approves the list of graduating students. Transcripts indicate the degree is awarded after this point in time.

Convocation, on the other hand, is the ceremonial part of the process; students receive reaffirmation of their status and become part of the Convocation roll and our Alumni body. So, even if the virtual convocation happens in June, and a face-to-face convocation happens at a date yet to be determined after that, students will graduate prior, when Senate convenes and approves that list.

It’s the Final(s) Countdown

My very best wishes to all of you who are taking final exams, completing final projects, or wrapping up final assessment processes, however they may look. I know this has been a challenging semester for our students who are learning in entirely new ways, and for our faculty who have provided exceptional leadership in making a rapid transition to a new style of teaching and evaluations. Thank you all for your patience and continued hard work.

I know we are facing uncertain times. I receive many questions, from when we anticipate things to get back to normal, to what the September semester may look like. We are planning behind the scenes on a number of fronts, but it is too early to guess or to assume anything, as I said above. We continue to follow guidance provided by the Provincial Health Officer, and will provide ongoing updates here on our website.

Thank you, and stay safe!

Geoff Payne
UNBC Interim President and Vice-Chancellor

Contact Information