Georgian College's Class of 2023 will soon be getting gowned up in preparation of walking across the stage at Barrie's Sadlon Arena.
Next week's convocation ceremonies will include thousands of graduates, a ceremonial Eagle Feather, and presentation of an honorary degree to a local businessman.
Over the course of six ceremonies, approximately 3,850 students will graduate from 130 programs. College officials say more than 2,450 students have chosen to receive their credential in person.
The ceremonies include graduates from all seven Georgian campuses in Barrie, Midland, Muskoka (Bracebridge), Orangeville, Orillia, Owen Sound, and South Georgian Bay (Collingwood).
This will also mark the first time an Eagle Feather will be included in a Georgian College convocation ceremony. Georgian was presented with an Eagle Feather on May 10 by Georgian alumnus Curtis Copegog.
"To be gifted an Eagle Feather is the greatest honour and requires a commitment to respect and care for all of Creation," the college states in a news release. "In recognition of Georgian’s commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, the feather will now be included in all convocation ceremonies to honour the strength, determination and commitment of graduates."
Peter Moore, a local businessman and founder of Moore Packaging, will be presented an honorary bachelor of applied studies by Georgian’s board of governors.
Convocation will be held on Monday, June 19 at 10 a.m., including the Eagle Feather ceremony carried by Elder Ernestine Baldwin, and at 3 p.m.
The ceremonies will continue on Tuesday, June 20 at 10 a.m., including the presentation of Moore's honorary degree, and at 3 p.m.
The final ceremonies are slated for Wednesday, June 21 at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
