Posted on June 28, 2021

VCC convocation recap – Spring 2021

flowers, graduation

Vancouver Community College (VCC) was proud to celebrate the hard work, commitment, and excellence of 1,488 graduands in an online Spring 2021 convocation ceremony on Thursday, June 24.

Guests were welcomed with a greeting, prayer, and territorial acknowledgment from Elder Deanna George, followed by a performance from β€˜The Coastal Wolfpack.’

In the wake of recent tragic news and events surrounding Canada's Indian Residential Schools, this spring, VCC took the time to reflect on the collective work we all need to do to support the healing of Indigenous communities.  

The event was conducted on Zoom and live streamed for friends and family of the graduands. Separate Zoom rooms were set up to recognize students from the different Schools.

Degrees, diplomas, and certificates were awarded to the following areas: 

  • School of Health Sciences
  • School of Hospitality, Food Studies and Applied Business
  • School of Trades, Technology and Design
  • School of Arts and Sciences
  • Continuing Studies
  • Library and Teaching & Learning Services

Graduands received messages of congratulations from Anne Kang, B.C. Minister of Advanced Education and Skills Training, as well as Jenny Kwan, Member of Parliament for Vancouver East.

Following remarks from the Board of Governors as well as VCC president Ajay Patel, valedictorian Vanessa Anderson addressed the graduating class of 2021 with words of wisdom, courage, and inspiration.

Vanessa Anderson

As we move forward onto the next chapters of our lives, it is important to remember that it is only through this change and uncertainty we are able to break down the barriers holding us back and become the incredible people we are meant to be.

Outstanding alumnus and president of Craftsman Collision Rick Hatswell welcomed the graduates to the alumni family and shared his wisdom with the group:

Rick Hatswell

Never be afraid of change. Be open to possibility because you never know what is waiting for you if you're ready to accept it. 


Missed the event or want to relive the moments? See videos below:

    • Presentation of graduates
      • Zoom Room 1 - School of Trades, Technology, and Design, School of Arts and Sciences (including Music), School of Instructor Education, School of Health Sciences, and Centre for Continuing Studies
      • Zoom Room 2 - School of Hospitality, Food Studies, and Applied Business

Congratulations to our VCC grads! Learn about the perks and benefits you now receive as VCC alumni