Some firsts at fall convocation

By Lethbridge Herald on October 21, 2025.

Joe Manio
Lethbridge Herald
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

More than 300 University of Lethbridge students, adorned in caps and gowns, gathered Saturday in the Co-op Centre for Sport & Wellness for the 2025 Fall Convocation. The celebration marks more than the end of studies—it was a celebration of perseverance, pride and the countless personal stories that had brought each student to this moment.

This convocation also had a few firsts. It was the first convocation to take place after the university revealed its rebranding in September. The new brand replaced the traditional crest with an Indigenous-inspired logo that features four tipi poles representing strength and a central opening symbolizing perspective and learning.

And in another first, the university bestowed two honourary doctorate degrees during the same ceremony and to two UoL graduates who are also husband and wife.

Retired teachers Bernadine (BEd ‘88) and Toby (BEd ‘89, MEd ‘94) Boulet both received honourary foctor of laws degrees for their selfless commitment to motivating Canadians to participate in organ donations and saving countless lives.

Their son Logan was one of 29 passengers involved in the Humboldt Broncos bus crash on April 6, 2018. Logan succumbed to his injuries a day later. 

Only months prior, Logan had been inspired to be an organ donor and let his parents know his wishes. While still grappling with their grief, the Boulets offered to donate Logan’s organs, thus saving six lives.

Turning this heartbreaking tragedy into a national movement, the Boulets have been at the forefront of promoting organ donations across Canada by co-creating Green Shirt Day to honour the tragic passing of their son, giving hope and light to others. 

“After our son, Logan, passed on April 7th…we felt as if a light in our lives had been extinguished and a new chapter had begun,” says Toby Boulet, addressing the graduating class after receiving their degrees. 

“We returned to our home in Lethbridge and from the pain of Humboldt we rediscovered an old friend…sunlight. It filled our home with warmth and comfort we needed. We opened the front door, and the sunlight poured in. Logan loved the sunshine.”

During their joint address to the graduating class, the Boulets took turns speaking and emphasized the importance of gratitude, connection, and being a light to share with the community.

“And now, you turn the page, beginning many, many new chapters where you will share that light and be that light,” says Bernadine Boulet.

“You don’t have to be an overpowering light, brighter than every other light, you just need to share your light. The University of Lethbridge has equipped you not only with the knowledge of the courage to question, the empathy to connect, and the resilience to lead.”

“In a world that often feels damaged by division or doubt, your light matters. Let it shine with integrity, with guidance, and with hope.”

Anyone interested in organ donation can get information by visiting the Alberta Organ and Tissue Donation Registry website, calling Health Link at 811, or speaking with their doctor. They can also register their decision to donate online or at a motor vehicle registry office.