Spring Convocation Program

Congratulations to the Class of 2025!

Welcome to Spring Convocation. Today, we gather to celebrate the hard work and accomplishments of our graduating StFX students. Whether you are joining in person or online, follow this program for ceremony details, featured biographies, and a full list of graduates. Hail and Health!

The National Anthem 
Janet Becigneul

Opening of Convocation 
Dr. Mila Mulroney ’04 
Chancellor
Read a message from the Chancellor

Invocation
Fr. Donald MacGillivray ’79 
University Chaplain 

President’s Address 
Dr. Andrew W. Hakin 
President and Vice-Chancellor
Read a message from the President

Recognition of Medalists
Dr. Amanda Cockshutt
Academic Vice-President and Provost
List of Medalists

Conferral of Degrees and Diplomas in Course
List of Graduates

Conferral by Chancellor
Dr. Mila Mulroney ’04

Conferral of Honorary Degree
Dr. Michael W. Higgins '70, Guelph, Ontario

Presentation of Professor Emerita
Dr. Margo Watt '93, Psychology

Presentation of Professor Emeritus
Dr. John Phyne, Sociology

Presentation of Professor Emeritus
Dr. Yvon Grenier, Political Science

Remarks
Kerry Prosper '09
Elder in Residence

Mi’kmaq Honour Song
Joseph Sylliboy
Millbrook First Nation

Acknowledgement of the Graduating Class
Joshua Kroker '25

Admission to the StFX Alumni Association
Mike Gillis ’87 
President
Read a message from the Alumni Association President

Benediction
Most Reverend Bishop Wayne Joseph Kirkpatrick
Vicar of the Founder of StFX

Closing of Convocation
Dr. Mila Mulroney ’04

For roles not listed above, see Ceremony Roles.

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The National Anthem 
Janet Becigneul 

Opening of Convocation 
Dr. Mila Mulroney ’04 
Chancellor
Read a message from the Chancellor

Invocation
Fr. Donald MacGillivray ’79 
University Chaplain 

President’s Address 
Dr. Andrew W. Hakin 
President of the University
Read a message from the President

Recognition of Medalists
Amanda Cockshutt
Academic Vice-President and Provost
List of Medalists

Conferral of Degrees and Diplomas in Course
List of Graduates

Conferral by Chancellor
Dr. Mila Mulroney ’04

Conferral of Honorary Degrees
Dr. Peter Nicholson, Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia
Clara Hughes, Nanoose Bay, British Columbia

Presentation of President's Research Award
Dr. Arlinda Ruco, Health

Presentation of University Research Award
Dr. Ricardo Scrosati, Biology

Presentation of Outstanding Faculty Teaching Award
Dr. Geniece Hallett-Tapley, Chemistry
Dr. Arlinda Ruco, Health

Remarks
Kerry Prosper '09
Elder in Residence

Mi’kmaq Honour Song
Joseph Sylliboy
Millbrook First Nation

Acknowledgement of the Graduating Class
Violet Silva '25

Admission to StFX Alumni Association
Mike Gillis ’87 
President
Read a message from the Alumni Association President

Benediction
Most Reverend Bishop Wayne Joseph Kirkpatrick
Vicar of the Founder of StFX

Closing of Convocation
Dr. Mila Mulroney ’04

For roles not listed above, see Ceremony Roles.

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Chancellor's Message

We have reached the end of another academic year Spring Convocation is once again upon us. Just as with other signs of spring, we are reminded that this is a time of new beginnings, particularly for our graduating students. As a University community, it is also a time of celebration, as we reflect upon the many successes of our students, faculty and staff. It is always a great privilege for me to be with you for these celebrations.

This university has an extraordinary ability to prepare students for successful careers and lives dedicated to service and leadership. Much of this success is thanks to the dedication of the staff, faculty, families and students. It is clear that the passion and commitment inculcated at StFX is truly invaluable. While many institutions offer outstanding academic programs, StFX stands apart in its mission to nurture a deep desire in its students to lead with purpose and to inspire positive change. 

To the Class of 2025: You are embarking on an exciting journey. You will join the proud ranks of Xaverians who have come before you. You will follow a well-trodden path, but, as with every generation, you will also chart your own unique course. I wish each of you the very best as you go forward into your future. May you live lives that are not only successful but truly fulfilling. 

Hail and Health!

Mila Mulroney '04
Chancellor
St. Francis Xavier University

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President's Message

Congratulations on your achievement. This is a special day for you, your family, and supporters!

Your dedication, hard work, perseverance, and commitment have culminated in a university degree; a StFX degree. Be confident that your experience at your University has provided you with the experience and skills that will serve you well no matter what path you follow.

You have a unique, personal story of your experience to tell. Take pride in your story and share it. Celebrate your relationships with friends, with staff and faculty who have helped you along the way. Your journey has been shaped by friendships, challenges, growth, and community.  As graduates, you are now part of a legacy of excellence and community that StFX embodies.

Your education has presented you with many different avenues with which to view the world and has also helped to hone the intellectual tools that will enable you to make a difference to all of those around you. You are the future leaders of our society, and our expectation is that with your many skills and abilities, you will bring positive change to our world.

Go make a difference!

Hail and Health. 

Dr. Andy Hakin
President and Vice-Chancellor
St. Francis Xavier University

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Alumni Association President's Message

Congratulations, Class of 2025!

Today is a day of celebration—of your hard work, your perseverance, and the incredible journey that has brought you to this moment. It’s also a day of gratitude. Behind every graduate is a network of family, friends, professors, and mentors who have cheered you on, supported you, and believed in you. To them, we say thank you.

As you step away from StFX, know that you are not leaving behind the friendships, traditions, and values that have shaped your experience. Instead, you are stepping into something even greater—a lifelong community of Xaverians who share your pride, your memories, and your commitment to making a difference. No matter where life takes you, you are part of a global alumni family ready to support, inspire, and celebrate you every step of the way.

We encourage you to stay connected at stfx.ca/alumni and @StFXAlumni on social media. Whether by attending alumni events, joining regional chapters, or seeking mentorship from fellow grads, the connections you've made here will continue to grow through the Alumni Association. The Xaverian spirit is something special—it lives in every handshake, every shared story, and every glimpse of an X-Ring across the room. Carry it forward with pride and remember: StFX will always be a part of you.

Welcome to the next chapter of your journey. Welcome to the Alumni Association.

We can't wait to see all that you will accomplish!

Hail and Health,

Mike Gillis '87
President
StFX Alumni Association

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