University convocation celebrates student success

By Justin Sibbet - Lethbridge Herald Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on June 1, 2024.

Herald photo by Justin Sibbet Janelle Dyck, Courtney Smith, Laura Correal and Jennifer Ellis-Toddington join other supporters as they cheer on the graduating procession passing by into an entrance below during convocation ceremonies this week at the University of Lethbridge.

LETHBRIDGE HERALDjsibbet@lethbridgeherald.com

Bright futures and even brighter smiles filled the 1st Choice Savings Centre following the third convocation ceremony at the University of Lethbridge.

As families gathered to take photos, share conversations and generally celebrate the achievements of the many graduates, an air of excitement for the future was evident.

While some graduates may be jubilant to have finished their education, one man is following in his father’s footsteps by advancing his career path beyond a single degree.

Daniel Garber graduated on Friday with a Bachelor of Arts in the music program, but he has already begun planning his next steps and it does not involve music.

“I’m actually going to chiropractic school in the fall, so I’m diverging from music a little bit,” said Garber following his convocation ceremony.

His father, Allan, also graduated with a music degree before venturing off down a different path, his taking him to law school. So, he remains confident his son will discover his future career as well.

“He’s not the first in our family to do something like that,” joked Allan. “I’m really proud of him.”

Even as Garber advances beyond the U of L, he says both the lessons learned and his love of music will carry with him on his new journey into his new chiropractic studies.

“Music will always be a part of me and I’m grateful for Lethbridge and the lessons I learned here and what I was taught.”

Despite his educational voyage continuing, he says it was still wonderful to cross the stage with his family in attendance.

“I’m from Edmonton, so they drove down here for the weekend and, only seeing them a half a dozen times a year… it’s nice to have them down here celebrating with me.”

He says there was little excitement coursing through his veins leading up to the ceremony, but it was well worth the attendance in the end.

“When you get up there and you get your name (announced) and you’re looking at your face on the TV, it feels a little bit more surreal,” said Garber. “You kind of realize how proud you are of yourself and the work you’ve put in over the past four or five years.”

As for Allan, he says it was well worth a drive from Edmonton to watch his son cross the stage.

“We wouldn’t miss it for anything. It’s a lot of work and it’s good to recognize these kids for what they’ve done.”

Furthermore, he had strong positive opinions about the U of L, saying he was very pleased in how the U of L operates.

“I’m really pleased with the University of Lethbridge. The quality of education he received here… it’s just all really first class.”

No matter where a prospective student may end up after graduation, Garber says it was the right decision for him to attend and it likely is for others as well.

“Get out there and accomplish your dreams.”

Over the previous two days, the University of Lethbridge hosted four convocation ceremonies.