Mount Saint Vincent University celebrated more than 470 graduates from 31 countries during its fall convocation ceremonies on Sunday, October 19, 2025.
Students crossed the stage from arts, science, education, and professional programs to accept a range of 27 degrees, diplomas, and certificates and join a global network of alumni more than 40,000 strong.
Honorary degree recipient
During the fall 2025 convocation, MSVU bestowed the degree of Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa, on Ann Divine.
In introducing Ann to the graduating class, The Honourable Twila Grosse, Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs, said: “Ann Divine is a builder of bridges between people, communities, and cultures. She has spent her whole life creating space where everyone, no matter where they come from or what their situation is, feels seen, valued, and empowered. Her story is one of courage, strength and unwavering purpose.”
In her address to graduates, Ann spoke of her journey from the UK to Canada and the many people who have supported her. She called on graduates to not lose sight of what’s most important in life.
“I want to talk to you about something that underpins your wonderful achievements – something that is too easily lost in the busyness that moves our world increasing online, and it’s moving so fast. Sometimes we need to pause and remember: At the heart of everything is humanity, compassion, gratitude and family.”
Ann reminded graduates of the importance of advancing equity and inclusion as they take their next steps. “As you move forward in your careers, using your emotional intelligence and the knowledge you’ve gained here at the Mount, build compassion in your workplaces because it is badly needed. Share your knowledge, and leave the door open for someone coming behind you. Create room and opportunities – especially for those facing systemic barriers. You being here was no accident. Because this University was built on compassion and kindness.”
Student prizes
The Valedictorian Prize for significant contributions to extracurricular activities at MSVU and in the community-at-large was awarded to:
- Katie Bates, Bachelor of Arts in History, Dartmouth, NS
- Joel Murphy, PhD in Educational Studies, Winnipeg, MB
The President’s Prize, awarded to graduates whose generosity, energy, and commitment enrich the university, was presented to:
- Katie Bates, Bachelor of Arts in History, Dartmouth, NS
- Haley Van Buskirk, Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Study (Honours), Ship Harbour, NS
Membership to Kappa Gamma Pi, the National Catholic College Graduate Honor Society, is based on scholarship, leadership, and service, and was presented to:
- Jaclyn Bourque, Bachelor of Public Relations, Bedford, NS
- Yu (Alicia) Guo, Master of Arts in Communication Studies, Shanxi, China
- Rachel Long, Master of Arts in Education (Lifelong Learning), Elmsdale, NS
Graduate Thesis Award
Jessica O’Flaherty, Master of Science in Applied Human Nutrition, Oakville, ON
Thesis title: Formulating a salt premix solution co-fortified with thiamine and iodine
Recordings of both ceremonies are available on the MSVU YouTube channel.