The graduates of the University of Brescia take the last walk in the history of the school

A few tears were shed on Monday afternoon as the last graduating class in the history of Brescia University College (BUC) walked from school to the convocation ceremony at Western University.

Canada’s only university-level women’s college — which was founded in 1919 — closed its doors in May as it merged with Western.

“It’s so special to be part of a graduating class from Brescia and the last graduating class,” says graduate Emma Morris.Brescia University College graduate Emma Morris shows off her graduation ring (Credit: Brent Lale/CTV London)

Led by bagpipes, the students made the traditional walk from Brescia to the Alumni Hall across the street.

“It’s very emotional for all of us,” says Dr. Lauretta Frederking, past president of BUC.

“Let’s march together, let’s walk together in solidarity and support for the future, trusting that in uncertainty and mystery great things will happen. Brescia lives in our hearts and in all the hearts of employees, teachers, staff and students.”

Graduate Angelique Belanger felt grateful to be a part of a historic day.

“It meant the world, if I’m completely honest,” says Belanger.

“I think it was just heartfelt and emotional and wonderful to see everyone again. It’s great to see our faculty lined up for us, cheering us on as they have throughout our time at Brescia.”

Others, like Hannah Schelfhaut, saw classmates again after school ended last month.

“I didn’t go to Brescia for Brescia,” says Schelfhaut.

“I went to Brescia for the program, but I stayed in Brescia for Brescia. That community of women is unmatched and there is nothing like it. I am very sad that there will never be anything like it again.”

The graduates who spoke to CTV all pointed to the values ​​that Brescia instilled in them.

“The idea of ​​being a compassionate leader is something really, really powerful,” says Morris.

“Leading with that justice and wisdom that the Ursuline Sisters who founded our university, instilled those values, especially as women, as we go into our careers, really carrying that with us. We have our graduation ring that we have the Brescia pigeon and we wear it as a reminder”.

Belanger called BUC a “very special place.”

“It’s a community of women uplifting other women,” she says.

“There is no competition, there is no malice. It’s just love and support and trying to lift each other up as we reach our goals. It’s just something special that I hope can be cultivated at Weston with integration.”