Fulbright Canada is pleased to share the news that on June 6, 2018, on the traditional territory of the Snuneymuxw people, alongside Chancellor Louise Mandell, senior administrators, and the Vancouver Island University (VIU) graduating class of 2018 in education and science and technology, Fulbright Canada CEO, Dr. Michael K. Hawes, was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Letters.
Dr. Hawes, who delivered the commencement address at the Convocation Ceremony for the Faculty of Education and the Faculty of Science and Technology, was recognized for his work in the field of international education and academic exchange, his commitment to indigenous youth and indigenous issues, and his work in the area of development studies. In addition to his role at the Foundation, Dr. Hawes sits on a number of boards.
During the ceremony, Mr. Robin McLay, Senior Advisor to Dr. Ralph Nilson, President and Vice Chancellor, at VIU, described Dr. Hawes as a champion of post-secondary and international education with a commitment to connecting international researchers with policymakers and facilitating collaboration that can change the world for the better. Mr. McLay further expressed his appreciation for Dr. Hawes’ commitment to supporting hundreds of indigenous students and their access to education at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels through the Fulbright program and other special grants.
Dr. Hawes offered the graduating class a message about the journey ahead, explaining that the changing world we live in will call on them to be both a learner and a teacher, to be true to themselves and to others, and to take action. He reminded them that everything they hold dear is a result of action. As they move forward, he encouraged them to be the master of their own destiny and the author their own success, while keeping kindness towards others and the incredible power of community in mind.
Valedictorian, Samantha Stremecki, addressed her class with her vision for their future, suggesting they will do just this, “VIU has provided us with a blueprint for success. We have both learned and lived diversity and inclusion.”
Everyone at Fulbright Canada sends their sincere congratulations to the graduates. We believe you will continue to be awesome and have a lasting impact on your communities!
We would also like to acknowledge the leaders at VIU for their whole-hearted commitment to public education, inclusivity, and the continued success of their students and alumni.