Confederation College Celebrates Class of 2026 at Convocation Ceremonies

Confederation College celebrated the achievements of its graduating class during Convocation 2026 ceremonies held at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium and communities across Northwestern Ontario.

More than 800 students crossed the stage in Thunder Bay to receive certificates, diplomas and advanced diplomas during morning and afternoon ceremonies on June 5. Convocation celebrations also included regional ceremonies in Fort Frances, Kenora and Dryden.

Graduates were joined by family members, friends, faculty, staff and community supporters as they marked the completion of their studies and the beginning of the next chapter in their personal and professional journeys.

"Convocation is a celebration of perseverance, growth and achievement," said Michelle Salo, President of Confederation College. "This year's graduates have demonstrated determination, resilience and a commitment to their goals. As they leave Confederation College, they do so with the skills, knowledge, and experience needed to make meaningful contributions to their communities, workplaces, and industries. We are incredibly proud of all they have accomplished."

Throughout the ceremonies, graduates were recognized for academic achievement, leadership and contributions to the college community.

The Governor General's Academic Medal and the Derek and Joan Burney Award of Excellence were presented to Taylor Milburn, a graduate of the Electrical Engineering Technology program. Milburn achieved a perfect 4.0 GPA and an overall average of 96.63 per cent, earning recognition as the student with the highest academic standing among diploma-level graduates.

Convocation 2026 also featured the presentation of honorary credentials recognizing individuals who have made outstanding contributions to student success, learning and communities across Northwestern Ontario.

Elder Sarah Yellowhead received an Honorary Credential in Onajigawin Indigenous Services in recognition of her years of cultural guidance, ceremony and support for students and staff at Confederation College. Dr. Bruce Pynn received an Honorary Credential in Dental Hygiene for his longstanding contributions as a clinician, mentor and educator supporting student learning and oral health care throughout the region.

This year's ceremonies reflected the college's theme of opportunity, highlighted in President Salo's convocation address to graduates.

"The door itself makes no promises. It is only a door," Salo told graduates. "You have earned the right to open that door through hard work, persistence, sacrifice and belief in what your future could become."

For graduate Aluat Dut William, Convocation marks the culmination of a remarkable journey. After arriving in Thunder Bay from Kenya through the World University Service of Canada (WUSC) Student Refugee Program, she built a new life while pursuing her education at Confederation College. Now graduating from the Practical Nursing program, she plans to begin her career in health care while exploring opportunities to continue her education to eventually become a registered Nurse.

"Everything seems hard at first," said Dut William. "Coming to a new country, meeting new people and adjusting to a different culture was a challenge. But with support of everyone at the college, and determination, I found my path. My message to others is simple: focus on your journey and on the future you want to create. If you do that, you can make it."

As members of the Class of 2026 join Confederation College's growing alumni community, they become part of a legacy spanning nearly six decades of education, workforce development and community impact across Northwestern Ontario.