NSCC celebrates nearly 4,000 graduates across province

Jun. 02, 2023 – Media Release

Halifax, NS -- Nearly 4,000 students will graduate from Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) during 20 convocation ceremonies taking place across the province from June 5 to 16, 2023. All ceremonies will be live-streamed at nscc.ca/convocation and also be available on YouTube in the days following the event.

“Convocation is the high point of our academic year – it’s a celebration of student success and all the moments that led them to this day,” says NSCC President Don Bureaux. “It’s an honour to be part of this important milestone in each graduate’s journey as they get set to embark on their next chapter.”

For the first time, NSCC is offering Mi’kmaq graduates a credential that has been translated into the Mi’kmaw language. Denise DiGiosia, NSCC Mi’kmaq and Indigenous Initiatives Senior Advisor, says this is a meaningful initiative. “Last summer, the province legislated Mi'kmaw as the official first language of Nova Scotia. This initiative is an option for our graduates that reflects the legislation and the College’s commitment to reconciliation.” She notes that while this option was directed to Mi’kmaq and Indigenous grads this year, the College is looking to offer that to others interested in having their credential in Mi’kmaw following convocation.

In addition to the awarding of credentials, 23 students will be honoured as valedictorians. A full list of names and profiles for each valedictorian can be found at nscc.ca/convocation. Two outstanding Nova Scotians will also be presented with honorary diplomas — the highest form of recognition presented by NSCC. Recipients are chosen based on their contributions to the community and the College.

The 2023 honorary diploma recipients are:

Dr. Shelagh Leahey
School of Health and Human Services
Dr. Shelagh Leahey is a leading physician in Nova Scotia, playing an integral role in our community for over four decades. Entering family practice in her early 20s, she’s held numerous senior leadership roles throughout her medical career - from chief of staff and medical director to being a founding site director of local medical residency programs. She actively volunteers to further support her community. Devoted to the field of medicine, Dr. Leahey’s legacy has touched the lives of many across the province. The passion and dedication behind her work is truly reflective of the College’s values regarding education and the importance of fostering community.

Rolf Peter Bouman
School of Business and Creative Industries
Rolf Bouman is a business leader, community activist and founder of the Friends United Initiative. Immigrating to Cape Breton from Germany in 1986, Rolf incorporated his first Nova Scotian company in 1990, creating a space to promote Indigenous art, culture and reconciliation. Through the Friends United Initiative, he created the Friends United International Convention Centre in Richmond County, promoting the works of Indigenous artists while supporting their success as entrepreneurs and cultural ambassadors. Rolf’s leadership in creating inclusive learning spaces to share Indigenous art, culture and heritage speaks to NSCC’s values and commitment to reconciliation through cultural understanding and awareness.

About NSCC

NSCC is committed to building Nova Scotia's economy and quality of life through education and innovation, transforming Nova Scotia one learner at a time. NSCC offers more than 140 career-oriented programs throughout the province at our 14 campuses, including our online eCampus. Programs are offered through five academic schools – Access, Education and Language; Business and Creative Industries; Health and Human Services; Technology and Environment; and Trades and Transportation. These reflect Nova Scotia’s labour market needs and opportunities. An annual survey of NSCC graduates shows that 91% are employed one year after graduation, most in their field of study, with 93% of those employed living and working in Nova Scotia.

For more information

Makayla Jodrey, NSCC Communications Associate
902-237-2097,