CDU grads get virtual send off

More than 2200 students will be recognised for their academic achievements during CDU’s first ever virtual graduation ceremony this Friday, 12 June.

The celebration will bring the rich tradition of graduation, including formal addresses, graduating student speeches and messages of congratulations, into homes all over Australia and the world.

CDU Student Administration Director, Sam Jacob said the virtual graduation was a way to recognise and celebrate graduating students despite restrictions due to COVID-19.

“Graduation is a significant milestone and we want to make sure students can experience the joy of graduating with their family and friends in some way,” Ms Jacob said.

The virtual graduation will mark the end of study for 1035 higher education students and 1231 VET students, including a total of 239 Indigenous graduates.

Bachelor of Business graduate Tatenda Mapuranga will deliver one of the student speeches along with fellow graduate Charmaine Woods.

Tatenda, who is the first person in his family to pursue tertiary education, said friendship, defiance, choosing battles wisely and being a man with a plan were all key elements to the successful completion of his degree.

He urged his fellow graduates not to get comfortable or complacent.

“To all my peers graduating with me in your imaginary mortar boards and robes, we may think there’s no more work to be done,” Tatenda said.

“But I say let’s not get comfortable, as we are approaching the finish line there is always a prospect for complacency.

“Let’s be ready as we delve into new life ventures, it is only going to get more intricate and challenging. But mountains are meant to be moved, aren’t they?”

Charmaine, who is now working in the Department of the Chief Minister as part of the Northern Territory Government graduate program, said she was immensely proud to address her fellow students and recognise their achievements.

“These are obviously strange and challenging times, but they also give us an opportunity to stop and think about how we can shape the world that we want to live in," she said.

“University creates people who can think critically, to differentiate good information from bad. We need people like that now more than ever.”

Graduates will be able to tune into the virtual graduation from 7pm on Friday, 12 June 2020 at W: https://graduation.cdu.edu.au/. For more information contact E: graduation@cdu.edu.au.

Graduates have the option of attending an in-person graduation at a later date.