CUE the future: Celebrating connection and community
On May 31, Concordia University of Edmonton (CUE) will proudly celebrate convocation — a pinnacle moment for our graduates — and honour two exceptional individuals whose professional and community achievements embody the university’s commitment to independent thinking, ethical leadership and the common good.
This year, we are pleased to present honorary degrees to Mary Jane James and Nathan Fillion. Their achievements not only set a powerful example for our graduates but also reflect the kind of impact they will make in the world.
MARY JANE JAMES
Mary Jane James is the Chief Executive Officer of the Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton (SACE). “Under Mary Jane’s visionary leadership, SACE’s revenue grew tenfold to over $8 million, enabling the organization to expand its services across Northern Alberta and profoundly increase its impact on survivors of sexual assault,” notes Dr. Carla Craveiro Salvado, Associate Vice-President, Research and Innovation, and Dean, Faculty of Graduate Studies.
She is a trailblazer, and through her unwavering dedication to justice, and courageous, compassionate, and principled leadership, she has raised public awareness about sexual violence and influenced public policy in support of survivors. She has used her powerful voice to elevate difficult conversations, challenge stigma, and inspire transformative change — qualities that resonate deeply with the university’s mission of nurturing community-oriented, socially conscious leaders that contribute to the common good.
James has created an enduring legacy of support for survivors, offering them not only resources, but also the hope and strength to heal and move forward. Her impact on the Edmonton community and beyond stands as a testament to the kind of impact-driven citizenship that defines the CUE spirit.
NATHAN FILLION
Nathan Fillion is an actor, philanthropist and a CUE alumnus. Through his award-winning performances and versatile creative work, he has become a global ambassador for Canadian talent and storytelling.
Fillion is best known for his film and television roles in hits such as Guardians of The Galaxy, Suicide Squad, Castle, as producer and star in The Rookie, and for his portrayal of Captain Malcolm Reynolds on the series Firefly. Fillion also co-founded Kids Need to Read, a non-profit organization that works to provide books to underfunded libraries. He also actively supports mental health initiatives, cancer research, and veterans’ organizations.
“Beyond his professional achievements, Mr. Fillion has used his platform to give back to his community and causes he cares about,” says Dr. Tim Cusack, Dean of Education at CUE. “His advocacy for these causes highlights his dedication to improving the lives of others and using his influence to create positive change.”
Fillion embodies the vibrant, creative and globally engaged spirit of CUE through his extraordinary career in the arts and his steadfast commitment to philanthropy. His voice is one of inspiration and humility — grounded in his Edmonton roots yet reaching audiences worldwide.
As an artist, he reflects the university’s dedication to fueling curiosity, fostering connection and building community; as a humanitarian, he exemplifies compassionate leadership and service. Fillion is an enduring role model for graduates who seek to make a difference through both talent and heart, indeed, demonstrating that true success includes making life better for others.
“Beyond his professional achievements, Mr. Fillion has used his platform to give back to his community and causes he cares about,” says Dr. Tim Cusack, Dean of Education at CUE. “His advocacy for these causes highlights his dedication to improving the lives of others and using his influence to create positive change.”
Fillion embodies the vibrant, creative and globally engaged spirit of CUE through his extraordinary career in the arts and his steadfast commitment to philanthropy. His voice is one of inspiration and humility — grounded in his Edmonton roots yet reaching audiences worldwide.
As an artist, he reflects the university’s dedication to fueling curiosity, fostering connection and building community; as a humanitarian, he exemplifies compassionate leadership and service. Fillion is an enduring role model for graduates who seek to make a difference through both talent and heart, indeed, demonstrating that true success includes making life better for others.
CUE THE CLASS OF 2025
As we gather to celebrate the accomplishments of our 2025 graduating class, we are reminded that the journey ahead is both a continuation and a new beginning. Inspired by the remarkable examples of Mary Jane James and Nathan Fillion, our graduates step into the world as dreamers and doers, fueled by curiosity, driven by purpose and grounded in a sense of belonging and acceptance.
As our graduates start their next chapter, they are not only taking with them the skills and knowledge honed through years of dedication, but also a deep sense of purpose that aligns with the values of our community — compassion, integrity and a commitment to making a difference. Their journeys will be as unique as they are, but one thing remains clear: they have the opportunity to contribute in meaningful ways, inspire change and build a better future—both for themselves and for the global community they now join.
Congratulations to the Class of 2025 and to our honorary degree recipients!
For more details, visit concordia.ab.ca.