Governor General’s Medal recipient among more than 1,000 graduates celebrated
More than 1,000 graduates crossed the stage during day two of Niagara College’s 2026 Spring Convocation celebrations on June 9, joining the College’s alumni community of more than 125,000.
Among the graduates recognized was Welland native Alleeya Guthro, recipient of this year’s prestigious Governor General’s Bronze Academic Medal, which is awarded to the graduating diploma student with the highest academic standing. Guthro achieved an exceptional 98.37 per cent average in Niagara College’s Recreation Therapy program within the School of Community Services.
“The level of hands-on learning I experienced at Niagara College was truly unparalleled,” said Guthro. “Overall, my experience at Niagara College has been truly life changing. The experiences, opportunities, and relationships I gained throughout my time at NC have shaped me both personally and professionally in ways I will carry with me for the rest of my life.”
Students who graduated on day two of NC’s Spring Convocation have joined an alumni community of more than 125,000.
Driven by a desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, Guthro found Niagara College’s Recreation Therapy program to be a natural fit. Through her experiences at the College, she discovered a passion for supporting individuals with disabilities and acquired brain injuries by using recreation and creativity to enhance their quality of life and well-being.
In addition to receiving the Governor General’s Bronze Academic Medal, Guthro was also presented with the Dean’s Academic Award for the School of Community Services during the afternoon ceremony. Dean’s Academic Awards are presented to students who achieve the highest cumulative grade-point average within each academic school.
In a video message played at the ceremony, Guthro encouraged her fellow graduates to pursue their dreams. “You should always believe in yourself, and you shouldn’t put limits on what you can accomplish,” she said. “If you try, and you do your best, you can go places that you never thought you could.”
Addressing graduates at both ceremonies, Niagara College President Sean Kennedy congratulated the Class of 2026 on their achievements and encouraged them as they embark on the next chapter of their personal and professional journeys.
NC President Sean Kennedy addresses the Class of 2026 on day two of NC’s Spring Convocation Ceremonies.
“At Niagara College, we are deeply committed to student success, and nothing brings us more joy than to celebrate you and your hard work during Convocation,” said Kennedy. “Wherever your life takes you next, know that your NC family is incredibly proud of you and is behind you every step of the way. Congratulations to the class of 2026.”
The morning ceremony celebrated graduates from the School of Academic and Liberal Studies, School of English Language Studies, School of Health Sciences, and the Myhal School of Nursing. Among those recognized were students involved in INSCol, one of Niagara College’s valued international partners that supports nursing graduates through access to work-study opportunities and pathways to professional practice around the world.
The afternoon ceremony honoured graduates from the School of Community Services and the School of Justice and Fitness, recognizing their dedication to serving and supporting communities through a range of professions.
By the conclusion of Convocation Week on June 13, Niagara College will welcome more than 7,000 new graduates into its alumni community.
Niagara College’s Spring Convocation continues through June 13, with ceremonies taking place daily at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the Simplii Financial Athletic Centre on the Welland Campus. All ceremonies are livestreamed. To view the convocation schedule, explore graduating programs, or watch a ceremony online, visit Niagara College’s Convocation website.
