Celebrating the Class of 2023!

To open the ceremony, graduates and guests were welcomed by Indigenous leader, Carla George. George was followed by CPABC’s Board Chair, Sheila Nelson, CPA, CA, who reminded the graduates that “the road ahead is full of opportunities for personal and professional growth, and chances to make important contributions to your community.” Next on stage was CPA Canada’s Board Chair, Richard Olfert¹, who shared his experience of the exam-writing process, when exams were “handwritten, color-coded by day and shipped securely to marking centres.” He reminded the graduates that what always holds true is “the standard for admission to the profession is as rigorous as it has always been.”

Class valedictorian, Helen Liu, spoke next. Liu, who received the Governor General’s Gold Medal,  placed first in Canada for the September 2022 CFE. She highlighted a few of the strengths that CPAs bring – resilience, versatility, and the ability to create synergy. Liu encouraged her peers to “stay curious and continue to expand this toolbox (of skills) as we move forward.” Liu also shared the synergy effects that she experienced during her education, where “collaboration and mentorship empower us and allow us to grow professionally and personally.”

The MC wrapped up the ceremony by inviting everyone to a complimentary reception in the Ballroom Foyer, allowing the festivities to carry on to celebrate this special day.