Just recently, many of our learners celebrated their graduation from the School of Continuing Studies in person. While it was not quite the same experience as before the pandemic — and a much smaller group to ensure safety measures — the occasion filled me with great joy and pride for all that our community of learners, faculty, instructors, and staff had accomplished during these past years. I am so excited to think about what wonderous paths the future holds for you, for us!
For the first time in nearly two years, I donned my regalia not only to sit in front of my monitor and cheer you on virtually, but to walk across the rows of graduands in their robes and mortarboards, with select family members or friends in the back. As I took my seat on the platform next to the University leadership, other deans and dignitaries, and fellow faculty members, I felt the same excitement I do at every graduation. It takes all the discipline I can muster not to jump up off my chair, do a little dance and give everyone a high five. But know that behind my attempt to look dignified I was doing exactly that!
Why should one be so excited for what some might consider an odd holdover from years past; an ancient tradition of pomp and circumstance that seems somewhat out of step with our fast-paced digital lives? For one, this Fall 2021 convocation marked two hundred years of scholarship and teaching, learning, and service for McGill University. More importantly, it represents the culmination of many hours of hard work, personal sacrifices, and juggling acts worthy of Cirque du Soleil for every graduating student, for every instructor and professor, and for every staff member.
Befitting a learning institution, we often have a team member wearing the hats of both student and staff. This time was no exception. For these individuals a special accolade. Not only have you been supporting other learners and representing SCS during your “day” job but had to carve out time for your own studies. Straddling both sides of the adult learning ecosystem, you embody the very idea of the lifelong learner.
To each graduate, and those that helped you get there, know that you have and continue to make a difference. Congratulations, félicitations, to another generation of successful SCS graduates! As you forge ahead with your ambitions, I continue to cheer you on and look forward to reflecting on the collective accomplishments of the School of Continuing Studies. In the words of the poet Robert Frost:
“I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.”
(Robert Frost, “The Road Not Taken”, 1915)