While close to 700 graduates will cross the stage at RRC Polytech’s Fall Convocation ceremonies later today, several of them will be wearing brand-new, meaningful stoles that reflect the voices, teachings and stories of Indigenous Peoples. 

The Polytech is officially unveiling its new Indigenous visual identity today – a project grounded in the institution’s commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, Indigenous student success, and shared values of respect, inclusion and belonging. 

“Celebrating our latest cohort of graduates is always an exciting, profound occasion,” says Fred Meier, President & CEO, RRC Polytech. “Today’s ceremonies will carry extra significance, as Indigenous graduates cross the stage wearing new stoles that honour tradition while embracing progress and change.” 

The stoles and new visual identity are the result of extensive conversations with Indigenous and non-Indigenous students, staff, Knowledge Keepers, Elders, and community partners, led by a steering committee made up of RRC Polytech staff and valued partners. 

“The design on these stoles is rooted in sacredness, seasonality, and interconnectedness, honouring the distinct identities of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples while weaving together themes of land, language, and story into a living expression of who we are,” says Carla Kematch, Director, Truth and Reconciliation and Community Engagement, RRC Polytech, and steering committee member. 

“The visual identity reflects teachings learned through engagement sessions and a survey that was shared among our community, ensuring that the design is a true reflection of an identity that belongs to all of us.” 

​RRC Polytech convocation ceremonies 

Kate Rudnyk, a spring 2025 graduate from the Digital Media Design program, will be awarded the Lieutenant Governor’s Medal – the highest award that may be obtained upon graduation from RRC Polytech – at the Fall Convocation ceremony this afternoon. 

The recipients of these medals are selected by a standing committee comprised of representatives from Polytech management, students and instructors. This outstanding graduate has been selected in recognition of her academic and technical achievement, involvement in Polytech and/or community activities, and overall good character. 

Read more about the 2025 Lieutenant Governor’s Medal Recipient here. 

Convocation ceremonies will take place in-person at the RBC Convention Centre, Ozhaawashko-Giizhig (formerly known as the City View Room), 375 York Avenue, and live-streamed at rrc.ca/convocation: 

Tuesday, November 18 at 1:30 p.m. 

• School of Business, Information Technology and Creative Arts 

• School of Health Sciences and Community Services 

• School of Hospitality and Culinary Arts 

Tuesday, November 18 at 7 p.m. 

• School of Continuing Education 

• School of Education, Arts and Sciences 

• School of Indigenous Education 

• School of Skilled Trades and Technology 

Close to 1,700 students are graduating this fall, with nearly 670 of them registered to attend their ceremony.