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Queen’s University is set to take over the Leon’s Centre in downtown Kingston for four days of spring convocation ceremonies June 20-23. During the six ceremonies, approximately 4,200 graduates are expected to attend along with an anticipated 12,500 or more supporters who will celebrate the Class of 2023.

“Convocation is such a special time of year at Queen’s, as it's a culminating experience for the graduating students as well as the staff, faculty, and supporters who have helped them along the way,” says Suzanne Arniel, Associate University Registrar.  “We held convocation in the Leon’s Centre for the first time last year and were thrilled by the positive energy created by gathering more graduates and supporters in one space than we’re able to in any campus building. The feedback we received was very positive, so we’re looking forward to celebrating this milestone with the Class of 2023 in Kingston’s premier facility downtown.”

Queen’s has been busy preparing for convocation throughout the spring, and more than 40 staff members will be on hand to make sure each ceremony runs smoothly. Staff members helping at the ceremonies fill a variety of roles, including reading the names of degree recipients, registering graduates as they check in, and distributing rented robes.

“No matter what your role at Queen’s is, we’re all here ultimately to help students achieve their educational goals,” says Alicia Peltsch, Manager, Predictive Analytics in the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, who worked at convocation ceremonies last spring. “It was really meaningful and enjoyable so I’m marshaling another three ceremonies this year. I felt like an honorary family member getting to share in the excitement of every student who walked by on their way to the stage. I’m very grateful to be part of convocation and help make the ceremony a memorable culmination of everything graduating students have worked so hard for.”

The City of Kingston is partnering with the university to help make convocation a special and seamless experience. During the day of convocation ceremonies, anyone traveling to or from the event can ride Kingston Transit for free. Attendees simply need to tell the bus driver they have been or are going to convocation. On the evenings of June 20 and June 22, the city will also be lighting up City Hall with tricolour to celebrate the graduates.

During the ceremonies, Queen’s will be granting 10 honorary degrees to leaders and luminaries in a wide range of fields. Learn more about this year’s recipients on the Queen’s Gazette.

Queen’s is livestreaming all ceremonies for those who cannot attend in person. Streams will begin 15 minutes before ceremonies are scheduled to begin and recordings will be posted online after the ceremony.

All are welcome to cheer on the graduates on social media by using #queensugrad2023.

Livestreams, recordings, and more information about convocation can be found on the Office of the University Registrar website.