Autumn Graduation
With the support of 165 staff volunteers, AUT’s Graduation Team last week delivered a series of six Autumn graduation ceremonies at Spark Arena for more than 2,614 graduands from across the University.
The ceremonies were in lieu of the traditional summer graduation events which usually take place in December but were disrupted due to Covid.
Amongst the graduands were five Deaf students - one from Design & Creative Technologies and four from Culture & Society. AUT interpreters prepared the students for going on stage and for the first time, their name was signed. AUT’s Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor also signed congratulations to the student. Some of graduands applauded in sign, and then dozens of fellow grads and staff followed suit.
The first graduating cohort of the Bachelor of Architecture and Future Environments qualification were also part of Autumn graduation, with 56 graduands attending in person.
The ceremonies were particularly poignant as many of the graduands’ journeys have taken place through the pandemic, with long periods spent learning from home rather than continuously experiencing student life on campus.
Surrounded by generations of proud whānau and friends, it was these graduands’ time to celebrate success. It was a joyous, excited and vibrant atmosphere at Spark Arena for the thousands attending.
One first-time staff volunteer said she was incredibly moved by the emotion of the event.
“I loved having the opportunity to interact with the graduands and their family members – talking with someone’s grandmother who was obviously so proud of her mokopuna’s achievement. Then seeing the beaming graduands walk across the stage in front of their peers and whānau – it was just fantastic.”
AUT’s Director of Student Administration, Richard Stewart, says, “Every graduation ceremony is a very special moment, bringing staff, students, whānau and friends together to witness this important life achievement.
“Thank you to those staff members who volunteered their time to assist – we simply couldn’t do it without you. Whether you were working hard behind the scenes, singing in the choir, welcoming guests to the event, or in one of the other roles - we thank you for your contribution. You all help create a very enjoyable experience for people on the day.”
3,236 students graduated in total over the two days. AUT’s next graduation events will take place on the 3rd and 4th of August at the Aotea Centre.