Office of Convocation Q&A
Q&A with the
Office of Convocation
Effective January 1, 2024, the Office of Convocation has joined the University Registrar’s Office. The URO is excited to welcome the convocation team.
We caught up with members of the team to give them a warm welcome and to learn more about them and their convocation experiences.
MM: How long have you been working in the Office of Convocation and what is your title?
SS: I started in the Office of Convocation in February 2019 as the Assistant Director. As of March 2023, I became the Acting Director.
RI: I was involved in various convocation production roles since May 2007, and started my current full-time position as Project Assistant in 2010.
MM: What is your favourite thing about convocation?
SS: Convocation is a truly joyous time, and you can feel that when you are around Convocation Hall. It is also a time when different teams come together with the same goal: to ensure our students and their guests have a wonderfully memorable experience. I love that connection and comradery between staff who care. They are coming together to do the best job possible
RI: All aspects of the production, especially watching excited graduates and families leaving the university with a happy memory.
As I am responsible for accessibility requests the most precious moments are the smiles and happiness that I see on the faces of students with special accommodations.
MM: Is there a convocation highlight, speaker, or special memory that stands out to you?
SS: I’ve really enjoyed being able to watch students that I’ve worked with in various capacities graduate. To be able to share in this milestone is a humbling and heartwarming experience.
RI: So many happy and funny memories but nothing in particular stands out now—it’s so hard to choose!
MM: Now that the Office of Convocation has joined the University Registrar’s Office, what are you looking forward to?
SS: I’m really looking forward to digging into what it is we do and what enhancements or systems can help us do better. Our team has done a tremendous job for many, many years with only a handful of people and limited resources. The URO has so many talented and incredible staff, so I’m excited to grow this portfolio and really boost the convocation experience.
RI: I am looking forward to more resources and hands during the production season.
MM: What do you like to do in your spare time?
SS: I enjoy baking, cooking, reading, and exploring the many trails and conservation areas around my home.
RI: In my spare time, I enjoy cooking and teaching Arabic as a volunteer.