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University of Lethbridge students celebrate convocation

WATCH ABOVE: University of Lethbridge celebrates convocation. Blake Lough reports.

CALGARY – Over 1,400 graduates at the University of Lethbridge are celebrating their achievements at convocation and looking forward to the next chapter in their lives.

Jenni Karl is one of those graduates, completing a decade-long chapter in her academic life by obtaining her PhD in neuroscience.

“It represents a lot of years of hard work and academic study,” said Karl. “A lot of delayed gratification and lots of excitement about the future.”

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It wasn’t just graduates who were recognized and honoured. Janice Varzari was named the 13th chancellor of the university in March. For Varzari, it wasn’t until she was sitting in front of the hundreds of graduates that the role really sunk in. Varzari is the very first graduate of the University of Lethbridge to become its chancellor.

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“It’s almost fairy tale-like. I never expected that after I graduated with a Master’s degree I would have another chance to be involved with the university.

“[But] there I am sitting on stage as the chancellor.”
“Janice is really symbolic of what the university is all about,” said university president Mark Mahon. “An undergrad and a grad degree, has worked in healthcare, [and] has worked in business.”

For Karl, the hard work has paid off. To mark the end of her time as a student, she’s been awarded the Gold Medal of the Governor General.

“A lot of hard work and perseverance,” said Karl. “Just kind of sticking it out through the difficult and not-so-rewarding times. But it’s worth it in the end.”

Four ceremonies will be held in total with the final two taking place on Friday at 9:30 a.m. for the Faculty of Education and at and 1:30 p.m. for the Faculty of Management.

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