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There’s something truly magical about the start of the academic year. I’ve been involved in UNB’s annual Commencement ceremony for about 20 years now, and every time I see the students arrive, I know I am witnessing the start of a great adventure. Commencement is more than just an event—it’s a tradition, a rite of passage that marks the beginning of the students' academic journey, just as graduation marks the end.

One of my favourite parts of this ceremony is the presentation of the Words of Welcome cards, or WOW cards as we call them. Every new student receives a handwritten note from someone in our university community—faculty, staff, alumni, even our Chancellor. I include my email address on every card that I write and on a couple of occasions I have heard from the student who received it to thank me for the personal welcome. It might seem like a small gesture, but the cards say a lot about the kind of community we have. We strive to be a place where students feel seen and supported and these little notes speak loudly.

Then there’s the President’s story. Dr. Mazerolle shares how his path through university wasn’t a straight line. He started in one program, tested out a few others, and eventually found his true calling. It’s a reassuring message, especially for students who might be feeling uncertain about their choices. Knowing that even the university president took time to figure things out—and that it worked out just fine—hopefully gives them the confidence to explore their own paths.

Another moment that stands out is when Cheyenne Joseph, the Piluwitahasuwin, or the Associate Vice‐President Indigenous Engagement, unpacks the Sacred Bundle. This is the only event I’ve attended where the bundle is unpacked and each of the items within are described—a powerful teaching that reminds us of the responsibility we carry within this community. The Sacred Bundle, with its deep symbolism, speaks to the importance of unity within diversity and the shared task of forging a new path toward truth and reconciliation.

This event isn’t just about welcoming students; it’s about immersing them in the rich history and traditions of our university. The platform party, dressed in colourful academic regalia, serves as a reminder of academic traditions over 800 years old. The gowns, hoods and robes, each with their own significance, are more than just ceremonial—they’re a connection to a long line of scholars who have come before. I like watching the students as they take it all in, realizing that they’re part of something much bigger than themselves.

In the spring of 2023, three of the Valedictorians reflected on their own Commencement experiences during their graduation address. Standing in the same place where their university journey began, they could see the invisible thread that connected their start to their finish line. They spoke about how ceremonies like this aren’t just formalities—they’re powerful markers of time, collective celebrations that bring us together as a community.

As the ceremony draws to a close, Dr. Hauf, as Provost and Vice-President Academic, stands before the students, faculty, and staff, and asks everyone to reflect on our university motto: Sapere Aude—Dare to be wise. It’s more than just a motto; it’s a challenge issued to all of us to embrace the opportunities and face the challenges ahead with courage, wisdom and an open heart.

This is just the beginning of a new chapter, for these students and for all of us who are part of their incredible journey. I’m already looking forward to seeing where it takes them.

Sara Rothman is the Senior Director, Student Affairs, Student Affairs & Services