Are you ready? Students are set to cross the stage Nov. 16 for fall convocation

It's almost that time of year again when hundreds of students at the University of Calgary prepare to don caps and gowns before they embark on their newest adventure.

Convocation is a time when the UCalgary community comes together in celebration of its own. It’s bound by countless traditions, from the UCalgary Honour Song, the tartan and the colourful hoods our graduates wear representing their faculties, to the ceremonial mace and the Graduates' Pledge led by distinguished UCalgary alumni.

And as part of the celebration, the university bestows awards on a special few in recognition of extraordinary achievement: honorary degrees and the Order of the University of Calgary. 

Recently, UCalgary Chancellor Jon Cornish and President Ed McCauley were pleased to announce Tegan Quin and Sara Quin, of the renowned Canadian indie-pop duo Tegan and Sara, as the honorary Doctor of Laws recipients for fall convocation. The honorary degree is UCalgary’s highest academic distinction and is bestowed upon individuals whose notable achievements and community service merit recognition. 

The Order of the University of Calgary honours recipients who have a record of exemplary and distinguished service to the university. This fall’s recipient is Colleen Bangs, BA’03, senior director of Alumni Engagement. 

Learn more about this year's honourees.

Are you ready? 

Many graduates are set to cross the stage during two ceremonies on Nov. 16, cheered on by their peers, friends and family. We invite all members of the UCalgary community to join us at this year's convocation ceremonies to celebrate our graduates for their remarkable accomplishments as they pledge to use their knowledge, experience, and skills for the well-being of their communities.

As per UCalgary’s new Strategic Plan, Ahead of Tomorrow, at UCalgary, placing community at the centre of what we do is the driving force behind our efforts to create the best experience for our graduates. In a time of immense change, having the support of your community can go a long way. And while accepting a degree may seem fairly simple, it is better to be prepared.

With convocation nearly upon us, here are a few things that you might need to know before you cross the stage.

Come prepared

If you are unsure about the time of your ceremony, visit this website for important dates and deadlines. To ensure a smooth experience on the day of your convocation, pick up your robe, hood and cap from the University of Calgary Bookstore, and then proceed to the Olympic Oval to your graduand meeting location (ice level). Once there, look for a volunteer wearing a red apron to have your hood pinned and then pick up your degree package.

But don’t worry, there will be signage around campus to guide you and your guests in the right direction.

Seating is free for all guests, so we recommend arriving early to get the best seat in the house. Should you wish to buy a last-minute gift for a grad, check out the UCalgary Bookstore, located on the ground floor of MacEwan Hall. 

If you are unable to attend or are supporting a graduate from another part of the world, UCalgary will be streaming both ceremonies online.

If you have more questions, please visit our FAQ.