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.
This year’s graduating class of nearly 12,000 students, who officially completed their programs in 2025 and 2026, will join a thriving global community of more than 285,000 George Brown alumni.
Convocation Week was a powerful reflection of the community’s momentum—and the enduring impact of education rooted in real-world skills and purpose.
A week of celebration and achievement
Across nine ceremonies, graduates from certificate, diploma, advanced diploma, and degree programs were celebrated for their dedication, perseverance, and academic excellence. Each moment on stage marked not only the end of a program but also the beginning of new opportunities.
“Our graduates’ achievements reflect far more than academic success. They represent resilience, determination, and a commitment to growth,” said Dr. Gervan Fearon, President of George Brown Polytechnic. “They leave us prepared to lead, innovate, and strengthen the communities and economy around them. Their impact will be felt across Ontario and beyond, shaped by the skills, the connections, and experiences they have built here.”
The ceremonies were guided throughout the week by Janene Christiansen, Registrar and Associate Vice President, Strategic Enrolment, who served as emcee.
“Convocation is where every part of a student’s journey comes together,” said Christiansen. “From their first recruitment engagement to application to crossing the stage, we’ve had the privilege of supporting their path. This week celebrates their accomplishments and the determination and ambition that will carry them forward.”
Nine valedictorians delivered inspiring speeches throughout the week, sharing stories of growth, community, perseverance, and hope for the future. Convocation also honoured four distinguished leaders with honorary credentials, recognizing their significant contributions to their professions and communities.
Celebrations and memorable moments
Convocation extended beyond the stage, with creative experiences that brought the George Brown spirit to life.
A vibrant and playful mural designed by Graphic Design graduate Madina Amanzai became a focal point for celebration, serving as a striking backdrop for photos and memories captured throughout the week.
Graduates and their families also enjoyed photo frame installations created in a collaboration led by Dr. Adel Esayed, Dean of the Faculty of Applied Science, Construction and Engineering Technologies; faculty member Wes Hore; and Lab Technologist Winslow Lazar.
Inside Meridian Hall, the space was transformed into an immersive celebration. Eye-catching design elements brought the OWN campaign to life, including a neon-lit George Brown statement sign, balloon installations, and wall wraps showcasing our valedictorians, creating a dynamic atmosphere that reflected both achievement and community pride.
Collaborative community
Convocation 2026 was made possible through exceptional collaboration across the institution.
The Convocation team within the Office of the Registrar—Elysia Cheung, Teresa Di Matteo, George Huang, Paul Lai, Athena Mitsilios and Amanda Briceno Diaz—led the execution of the week’s events, supported by Jennetta Lamb, Manager of Convocation, and Reem Khan, Senior Manager of Academic Records and many of the RO Management Team: Andrea Jones, Ashley Sullivan, Dave Scott, Denise Brooker, Greg Baross, Ian Honey, Kristen Boujos, Melissa Waugh, Michelle Abalos, Olena Shklar, and Sabrina Montautti Narancio.
The Marketing and Communications team played a key role in shaping the look, feel, and reach of Convocation, transforming Meridian Hall into a vibrant celebration space and extending the experience to audiences near and far through social media, livestreams, and digital coverage.
Special thanks go to Joey Dellemonache, Rubia Helena Viana Rosa Queiroz, Maryam McKenzie, Derek Jensen, Joyann Calendar, Shawne McKeown, Peter Koutsokeris, Ella Magcalayo, Ellis Berman, Gage Fletcher, Jessica Lewis, and the many behind-the-scenes contributors whose work ensured a seamless and impactful celebration.
Amanda Scriver also played a vital role in engaging the community throughout the week, managing social platforms, responding to hundreds of inquiries, and moderating livestreams that kept virtual audiences connected.
Convocation also benefited from the dedication of academic faculties, deans, associate deans, faculty and staff, the Board of Governors, senior leadership, interpreters, counsellors, Alumni Relations, Security and Public Safety, the Student Association, and countless staff across the institution who contributed their time to make the events a success.
Stepping into the future
As the Class of 2026 embarks on their next chapter, graduates carry forward not only their credentials but also the values, connections, and community spirit that define George Brown Polytechnic and our community, as professionals, innovators, and changemakers committed to making a meaningful difference.
Missed the ceremonies? Recordings are available on the George Brown YouTube channel, and highlights from the week can be found in the convocation galleries on Instagram and Facebook.
