Congratulations to the exceptional learners of SelfDesign’s Class of 2022! The 110 learners who have completed their journeys with SelfDesign this learning year are now embarking on the next learning adventures in their lives.
They, their families and friends, and other members of the SelfDesign community gathered in person in Port Coquitlam on May 29 and then again online on June 11 to mark this important point in their learning.
“We want to acknowledge the path each of you took to get here, and you’ve done so through a few challenging years,” SelfDesign Chief Learning Officer Nikki Kenyon told them at the Commencement ceremonies. “We celebrate how you continuously participated in ways that are meaningful to you.”
“Some of you have been with SelfDesign since kindergarten. Wow! That’s amazing! Commencement is a huge transition for you and your family,” said Michelle Buck, SelfDesign learning consultant and the ceremonies’ host. “We are all glad you’re here, and we’re proud of all that you have accomplished.”
At each celebration, members of our community and invited speakers honoured the learners for their contributions, achievements and learning.
Open to all learners who are completing their learning journey with SelfDesign Learning Community this year, regardless of their path to completion – the Dogwood Diploma, the School Completion Certificate or the Adult Dogwood – the events showcased works, speeches and performances by commencing learners. There were music and songs, a selection of artworks and animations, and many heartfelt congratulations and thanks.
“We have been delighted to see your work and your involvement in the learning community, and the amazing personal projects you’ve shared,” says Vice Principal Vanessa Kuran. “It is a shining moment when your skills and achievements are being recognized and celebrated.”
“We’re excited to be celebrating both in person as well as online, in true SelfDesign fashion,” Principal Catherine Dinim said, acknowledging that this year’s in-person ceremony was the first in-person Commencement Celebration held for SelfDesign learners since the pandemic began in early 2020. We hope to continue offering in-person celebrations and activities going forwards as public health measures allow.
“We hope you can take the energy and persistence you’ve shown this year to head out into the world to pursue your next goals and dreams,” she says. “We know you’ll make an impact on the communities and initiatives you’re involved in.”
To the Class of 2022, everyone here at SelfDesign Learning Foundation wishes you joy and fulfilment as you continue your journey of learning and discovery through the coming years!
