Years of hard work for hundreds of students culminated during the seventeenth session of the 58th annual Convocation at St. Clair College's Chrysler Theatre on Feb. 19, 2026.
Hundreds of students from dozens of programs crossed the stage to receive their diplomas in what was an emotional day of recognition for many.
"I know it's going to be emotional," said Indigo Stoddard, who graduated from the Fashion Design Technician program. "I've put a lot of creative work into this day, and so to finally have the paper to prove it is a very nice feeling, and I worked really hard to get here."
"My grandma's coming to the ceremony, and she's definitely my number one supporter. She's the reason I got into fashion and got into the creative field," Stoddard said. "She calls me her protege. So, I just know once I get off the stage, it's all tears."
Emily Mikha, a graduate of the Esthetician program said she's excited to enter the workforce at a spa.
"I'm ready to go into the industry," she said. "I already have everything down. I studied hard. I enjoyed it. I made a lot of friends and a lot of connections here. Some of my closest friends are from the program. I love them."
With the commencement of the ceremony, St. Clair College's alumni network has grown to more than 150,000 strong.
Graduates were greeted during the ceremony by St. Clair College President Michael Silvaggi, who offered some sage advice about work to the newest batch of alumni. "It is a pleasure and an honour to welcome and recognize those individuals who – with fitting pomp and circumstance – just paraded before us: the students who will, during the course of these proceedings, be transformed into St. Clair's newest graduates," President Silvaggi said.
"I urge you to do – and to enjoying doing, and to take pride in doing – good work in all of your professional endeavours in the future, from your first entry-level job to the final phases of what I am sure will be distinguished and fulfilling careers," said President Silvaggi.
"In the future, I hope that you will also do good works. When you add the "s" to that phrase, we are no longer talking about your job performance in the labour marketplace," he said. "Rather, carrying out good works refers to your life as a person, a human being, a member of your community, a citizen of your nation and your role in contributing to the well-being of your neighbours and, indeed, your fellow humans at-large."
Its guidance graduates will take to heart as they enter the next phase of their lives, making an impact during their careers and in life.
"Congratulations to everyone else here," said Stoddard.
"It's awesome seeing everyone here – the first class of '26."
