We’re so proud of the close to 2,200 people who earned the privilege of walking across the stage at the university’s Spring Convocation ceremonies on June 20, 21 and 22 at the Winspear Centre, including more than 500 from the Faculty of Health and Community Studies.

“Our 2023 graduates come from a long tradition of excellence in caring for others and serving our community,” says Dr. David Danto, dean of the Faculty of Health and Community Studies. “I am confident the Class of 2023 is prepared to assess, research, innovate, support and engage challenges in ways that respect reconciliation and diversity and that prioritize human dignity. Congratulations on all you have achieved and your commitment to improving health and community in the coming years.”

This year’s graduates look back on their time at MacEwan and forward to their bright futures as social workers, child care professionals, investigators and therapist assistants.

CAIRA ANGELES
Early Learning and Child Care Diploma

I originally graduated from college in Hong Kong, majoring in psychology. Before deciding to pursue early childhood education, I worked in a kindergarten teaching English as a second language. I felt pressured to instill knowledge in young ones whose parents asked me if their two-year-olds could take the Cambridge English exam. It didn't feel right that the curriculum had little wiggle room to include play in our learning. 

That’s one of the main reasons I chose to come to Canada. I was drawn to MacEwan’s program because of its emphasis on children, their well-being and identity, and its focus on play. We get to be in the field so we can practice what we’re learning in class, and I have been very lucky to witness the magic of educators growing alongside children and families at the Glenora Child Care Society and Early Learning at MacEwan. 

Being away from family wasn’t easy, and my lifestyle back home was very different. I kept going back to the “what ifs.” What if I stayed back home? What if I pursued a different path? That mentality was probably one of the most challenging obstacles I had to overcome at MacEwan. But my professors and the people I’ve met in the early learning and child care community reminded me of the joy of being in the field. 

AVNEET KAUR BAWA
Physical and Occupational Therapist Assistant

I remember when after anatomy class, I found myself crying in the locker room, completely broken at heart when learning the names of the bones of the hand felt as if getting to know a foreign language. 

My friends Sherya and Ishpreet came running towards me to rescue my shattered dreams, and I said through my cracking voice, "Shreya Di (Di is a term used to address someone as a sister in Hindi). I know I won't be able to make it." She held me close, looked into my eyes and said, "More than you believe in yourself, I believe in you, and I know you will smash these 'bones of the hand.'" 

Since then, she and Ishpreet, my cheer buddy, started teaching me one hour after classes every day till the end of the semester. These girls inspired me because they studied, worked part-time, and still found time to help me. 

I was a girl with many mental issues, facing PTSD (as I had lost my father a couple of months before I entered university), completely tired of life and low in confidence. 

When I look back, this journey as an international student has been breathtaking, healing and full of growth. I now work as a therapy assistant at the Grey Nuns Hospital and aspire to complete my degree. Deep within my heart, I know my time at MacEwan has been life-changing.

ALLIZZA BONES 
Bachelor of Child and Youth Care

Child and Youth Care changed my life. Growing up, I lived in a smaller city, and I had this sense of community. I could lean on them. But university was something I had to do on my own.

My first-year practicum was a big challenge. There were times before I headed out into the field when I questioned if Child and Youth Care was what I truly wanted to do. But my professors supported me and ensured they were there for whatever I needed. And my mom was there, always supporting and encouraging me from afar. She constantly reminded me that I could do it. 

One of my profs said, “Be comfortable in the uncomfortable.” That’s when I knew that this field would continue to push me, and I needed to be okay with a bit of chaos. So I walked into that first-year practicum with curiosity, knowing I was not alone. 

Child and Youth Care helped me understand the bigger picture and that everyone has their unique world. It made me curious, taught me to be self-aware and open-minded, and gave me a broader lens to see things through.

KRISTINA POPLAWSKI
Investigative Studies

I grew up going to MacEwan to watch men’s volleyball (my cousin is the coach), and I played Junior Griffins Hockey at a young age. Being at MacEwan and meeting all the great staff and students made me want to attend. When I discovered the program I wanted to take was there, I knew I had to. 

I love helping people when they are at their lowest or need a push in the right direction. My end goal is to work in border security. I grew up watching border security TV shows with my Mom and was always interested in the job. Getting my diploma at MacEwan is the first step. 

I was always a timid person and very hesitant to interact. But I got a lot more engaged in my second year, bonding with people with the same interests. University really is a time when long-lasting friendships begin. 

I plan to apply to the CBSA training college in Quebec in a couple of years. I would love to eventually work in an airport and live out my childhood dreams of working in border services.

JILL HATFIELD
Social Work Diploma

I had always struggled in school, so when I first came to MacEwan, I felt it would be like climbing mountains. It was hard, but I overcame the obstacles on my mountain and became more confident. I grew in mind, body and spirit throughout this journey. 

I am passionate about encouraging, inspiring and assisting people on their journeys through life using a healthy, balanced approach. I plan to work collaboratively and in a holistic setting encompassing a combination of yoga, meditation, psychological services, doctors and naturopaths. Not everyone heals the same way and on the same schedule. That’s why offering as many options as the people we serve may need is imperative. 

Many people have inspired and encouraged me. My parents are my cheerleaders, always encouraging me to learn and grow. My two daughters and husband have always supported, helped where and when needed, and loved me through the ups and downs of navigating our hectic life. My next step is working toward my social work degree at the University of Calgary. Eventually, I hope to complete my master's in Europe. 

I am so grateful for everyone who has helped me accomplish my goal, and I look forward to seeing where the wind takes me.

DENAE WEISS
Child and Youth Care Diploma
Governor General’s Bronze Medal (Diploma)

When I was helping my cousin apply for the Child and Youth Care (CYC) program, a couple of things caught my eye: its relational, holistic and strength-based approach toward children and youth and its three practicums. The next day, I applied to change programs. I had finished my first year in the Bachelor of Arts program, intending to continue, but I was inspired by what the CYC program stands for and the opportunities it provides to make a difference in others’ lives.

Near the end of this school year, I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Over the past two years, while I was on a journey to figure out what was going on with my health, my professors showed so much grace and understanding. And my learning specialist from Access and Disability Resources (ADR) who helped with accommodations to fit both my learning and health needs has been such a gift. 

With the right support and mindset, I proved to myself that I can excel, no matter the hurdles I face. I am very grateful to every individual at MacEwan who has helped me along the way. I would not be where I am today if it were not for the support of my profs, ADR and the best cohort of classmates who push me to be better and constantly remind me why I am in this program.

My personal and professional philosophy is that everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, supported, accepted, hopeful and empowered. I will continue in the Bachelor of Child and Youth Care program and look forward to applying that philosophy. Following my degree, I plan to continue studying in the counselling psychology field.