George Brown Polytechnic is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples who have lived here over time. We are grateful to share this land as treaty people who learn, work and live in the community with each other.
The energy was electric at Meridian Hall as George Brown celebrated its largest Convocation Week ever, with close to 7,500 graduates crossing the stage from June 9-13, 2025. The Class of 2025, with over 13,000 graduates, marked a milestone achievement for the college and its vibrant community.
A week of celebration and achievement
Ten ceremonies over five days showcased the diverse talents and accomplishments of George Brown’s graduating class. From certificates and diplomas to advanced diplomas and degrees, each graduate represented years of dedication, perseverance, and academic excellence.
"Our graduates’ success is a product of their hard work, and at times, sacrifices," said Dr. Gervan Fearon, President of George Brown Polytechnic, in his remarks to the graduating class. "They are ready to go out and make their mark. A mark in their communities and to a vibrant Ontario economy which will be even more significant because of the skills, capacity, and knowledge that they have acquired during their time here at George Brown."
The ceremonies were expertly guided by Janene Christiansen, Registrar and Associate Vice President Strategic Enrolment, who served as emcee throughout the week. "Every ceremony was a testament to the incredible journey these students have undertaken," said Christiansen. "From their first day as an applicant at George Brown, to this moment as they graduate, we've been honoured to be part of their academic journey.”
New leadership and academic excellence
A historic moment unfolded during the first ceremony on June 9 as Geoff Smith was officially installed as George Brown’s third Chancellor. Chancellor Smith's installation marked the beginning of a new era of leadership and vision for the institution.
The week also celebrated academic excellence through 10 outstanding valedictorians who delivered inspiring speeches, sharing their journeys and visions for the future. Additionally, five remarkable leaders from diverse professional fields were bestowed with honorary credentials, acknowledging their significant contributions to their respective industries and communities.
Creative celebrations and memorable moments
The festivities extended beyond the ceremony with creative elements that captured the spirit of the George Brown community. Graduate Yalda Mohammadghezelayagh, from the Graphic Design program, created a vibrant and playful mural that served as the perfect backdrop for countless photos and memories.
The popular MyGBC Magazine photo booth became an instant hit with graduates and their families. This photo opportunity was expertly constructed through collaboration between Dr. Adel Esayed, Dean of the Centre for Construction and Engineering Technologies, full-time faculty member Wes Hore, and Lab Technologist Winslow Lazar.
Teamwork makes the dream work
The success of Convocation 2025 was the result of exceptional collaboration across the entire George Brown community. The Convocation team and management in the Office of the Registrar—Elysia Cheung, Erika Ortegon, Teresa Di Matteo, and George Huang—worked tirelessly under the leadership of Jennetta Lamb, Manager of Convocation, and Reem Khan, Senior Manager of Academic Records.
The Marketing and Communications team transformed Meridian Hall into a bold and beautiful George Brown space, complete with vibrant branding and interactive elements that impressed graduates and visitors alike.
The engaging design elements, comprehensive social media presence, and website coverage set the stage and beautifully captured the excitement and emotions of the week. We extend our gratitude to Joey Delle Monache, Nicola McLaughlin, Maryam McKenzie, Derek Jensen, Marisol Escobar, Rubia Helena Viana Rosa Queiroz, Peter Koutsokeris, Ella Magcalayo, Kristina Apel, Gage Fletcher, and Stuart Maclean for their efforts in ensuring that the space was ready for a celebration of this magnitude, allowing friends and family, both near and far, to celebrate alongside our grads. Additionally, thanks to Amanda Scriver for her community management of our social platforms, answering hundreds of questions and messages, and moderating the convocation livestreams throughout the week.
Special recognition is due to the academic divisions, deans, associate deans, academic staff and faculty, the Board of Governors, the senior leadership team, our interpreters, the Advancement and Alumni Relations team, Security and Public Safety, volunteer students and staff from across the college, and the Student Association for their invaluable support throughout the week. We could not have achieved this without your commitment and dedication.
Looking forward
As the Class of 2025 embarks on their professional journeys, they carry with them not only their credentials but also the values and community spirit that define George Brown. With 285,000 alumni worldwide, they join a network committed to innovation, excellence, and positive impact.
Missed the live ceremonies? View the recordings on the George Brown YouTube channel.
Photos of the celebration can be found in the convocation galleries on Instagram and Facebook.
