Stories
CUE 100: Convocation
by Jennifer Kruse
Established in 1921, Concordia College opened its doors to young men, preparing them for the preaching and teaching ministry. In 1987, Concordia became a degree-granting institution.
From Concordia’s first university convocation class of 13 students in 1988, through the 1993 class covered in the accompanying archival document, to the current graduating class of approximately 500 students over 30 years later, Convocation is the culminating event which brings celebration and excitement. As a student, I saw Convocation as the launching pad to my next step in life, but what I came to realize, was how momentous this celebratory day can be.
With the graduates lined up in their black caps and gowns, you find your friends and classmates, snap pictures, and reminisce and laugh about the memories you shared over the last few years. The Professors line up, each with their own gown detailed in the most radiant colours and delicate pieces. As they pass, they look to you—the graduate—with a smile, and as an equal. You know that the hours spent in their classes and studying for their tests were worth this moment.
As you enter the hall, the traditional processional welcomes you as you pass the proud families, sharing your excitement of this accomplishment. You are recognized as your name is read from the stage and in a time-honoured Concordia tradition, you kneel for your hood as it is placed on your shoulders by professors to recognize the program which you have completed. Arrayed in your full graduate attire, you continue your walk across the stage to shake hands with the Chancellor.
With each program represented and returned to their seats, the graduates in the sea of coloured hoods await the final piece. All graduates are asked to move their tassel from the right to the left side, symbolizing their dedication and accomplishments, that they are now graduates of Concordia University of Edmonton.
You now join the vast number of other alumni from Concordia spanning 100 years—a truly proud moment.
About Jennifer
Jennifer graduated from Concordia High School and completed three degrees at Concordia University of Edmonton. During her time at CUE, she participated on the Graduation Committee and as Team Manager for the Mens’ Basketball team. Jennifer served on the Concordia Alumni Association in 2013, and was elected as its President from 2014 to 2018. Currently, Jennifer is a Grade 5 teacher in Leduc, Alberta for Black Gold School Division. She volunteers with the Canadian Red Cross in Swimming and Water Safety, participates on the CUE 100 Anniversary Committee, joined the CUE Board of Governors in 2017. She is proud to give back to the Concordia community.
CUE Students and Alum to Make Their Own History
Concordia’s CUE 100 committee is very excited to feature the written work of several students and alumni as part of its centenary celebrations. As these celebrations continue, you can look forward to reading short articles by these writers on interesting aspects of Concordia’s history over the past century. Writers were given access to archival documents on particular topics which they were asked to summarize and personally respond to. You’ll be able to discover much about Concordia’s history and how it still resonates among us today. We hope you find these articles both informative and entertaining. Happy 100, Concordians!