Graduates from the EdD class of 2025 gathered at the graduation reception last November.
Celebrating EdD graduates from coast-to-coast
In November, our most recent Doctor of Education (EdD) graduates came together to celebrate their completion of the program at the annual EdD reception.
The atmosphere was electric as new alumni of the online program from coast-to-coast, and as far away as the Cayman Islands, met for the first time in person.
“After three years together, many shared laughs, tears and personal stories, the graduates finally exchanged the hugs they had been waiting for,” said professor Erin Courtney, who teaches in the Educational Leadership EdD stream. “This was more than a celebration; it felt like a homecoming!”
Dean Donna Kotsopoulos opened the event praising the new graduates for their commitment to education and leadership while balancing jobs and other commitments.
“It is through dedication that you were able to persevere and obtain a doctoral degree; despite all the challenges you faced. Some of you juggled full-time careers, parenting duties and countless other obstacles that life throws your way,” said Kotsopoulos.
“You are all shining examples of what the Faculty of Education has to offer, and it is people like you who make our dream of transforming education and transforming lives a reality.”
During the event, professor Dianne Yee presented Dean Kotsopoulos with an Indigenous Canadian flag by the late Kwakwakaʼwakw artist Curtis Wilson. Yee explained that this gesture was intended to honour Kotsopoulos’ leadership of the faculty’s commitments to Indigenous education and her passion for ensuring all students are empowered to succeed.
“Wilson explained that the flag, which is titled Standing Together, should help us to ‘think of the inclusiveness in Canada instead of exclusiveness’ and how we can all support each other,” said Yee.
“It is very important for non-Indigenous Canadians to be curious, and to continue to learn about Canadian Indigenous perspectives throughout our lives.”
Looking back on her EdD experience, Darlene DeMerchant shared that she is filled with gratitude for both the personal growth and connections forged throughout the program.
“My heart and mind are full as I reflect on this journey, one filled with deep learning, meaningful collaboration, and countless moments of growth,” said DeMerchant.
“This achievement is not only a milestone in my professional journey but also a testament to the incredible support of mentors, colleagues, family and friends who encouraged me every step of the way.”
DeMerchant, who is a learning resource teacher and team lead at St. Michael’s University School in Victoria, British Columbia further reflected that the program “strengthened her career by deepening both her leadership capacity and ability to drive meaningful, system-level change in schools.”
“The program expanded my professional credibility as an educational leader. I am now better positioned to contribute strategically to school improvement efforts, support colleagues through collaborative structures, and influence decisions related to student support, equity and instructional practices,” said DeMerchant.
“Most importantly, the EdD reinforced my commitment to servant and transformational leadership, helping me align my values with my daily work and preparing me to take on greater responsibilities in shaping school culture, guiding teams and fostering inclusive, responsive learning environments.”
Fellow graduate Jenny Richmond-Bravo, Doctoral Professional Development Coordinator at Western University was grateful for the opportunity to gather with her peers who had been an important support network through “three years of rigorous personal and professional development.”
“The most valuable part of the program was the opportunity to make deep and meaningful connections with higher education professionals across Canada, and some beyond,” said Richmond-Bravo.
“This was more than a social benefit; it deepened my understanding of key issues in higher education by introducing the perspectives of others in a variety of roles. These are perspectives that I don’t typically have access to in my daily work.”
For instructors, the annual reception also brings a great sense of pride for students and for those who support them.
“It’s truly special to have the chance to personally congratulate students as instructors,” said professor Beate Planche, coordinator for the EdD program.
“It’s a privilege to be attending and to bear witness to the happiness and sense of accomplishment that graduates feel at this celebratory event.”
Congratulations to our newest alumni!
