In the words of John O’Brien, Sir George Williams University’s last principal and Concordia’s first rector, Sir George crammed much history into its 45 years. The university also left an indelible mark on its graduates, a sentiment quite apparent among the nearly 700 Sir George alumni who received Concordia University commemorative certificates at Place des Arts’s Théâtre Maisonneuve, June 8.

After the opening invocation by Reverend Matti Terho, the alumni and 500 guests heard appreciative and heartfelt speeches from Chancellor Eric Molson; President Frederick Lowy; Robert Barnes, president of the Association of Alumni of Sir George Williams University; John Aylen, president of the Concordia University Alumni Association; Vice-President of Advancement & Alumni Relations Kathy Assayag; Concordia governor Jonathan Wener; and Provost Martin Singer.

In addition to the speakers, also present on the platform were Dr. Rita Shane, the last surviving member of Sir George’s first graduating class of 1937; members of Concordia’s President’s Cabinet, Board of Governors and administration; members of the board of directors of the Association of Alumni of Sir George Williams University; and several former Sir George faculty and administrators.

The commemorative ceremony, as well as a similar one held for Loyola College alumni on March 31, stemmed from an idea by Jonathan Wener, a Sir George grad. As the ceremony’s valedictorian, Wener gave a stirring address about his Sir George days, the impact that his former professors had on his life and career, and the continuation of the Sir George philosophy of accessibility, diversity and quality teaching at today’s Concordia.

For more background information on the event, including a set of historic photos, please consult the public affairs web site.