nearly 1,000 students crossed the stage at Merlis Belsher Place
Nearly 1,000 students crossed the stage at Merlis Belsher Place during Fall Convocation 2025. (Photos: University of Saskatchewan)

In photos: USask celebrates graduates at Fall Convocation 2025

A proud moment shared with loved ones: Convocation is one of the most meaningful traditions at the University of Saskatchewan (USask)—a time for all of us to come together and celebrate the dedication, perseverance, and success of our students.

By University Communications

On Wednesday, Nov. 12, nearly 1,000 students crossed the stage at Merlis Belsher Place to officially become graduates, joining a global network of more than 175,000 USask alumni who are making an impact in Saskatchewan, across Canada, and around the world. 

These ceremonies give us the chance to show how proud we are of everything they have achieved. Take a look at some of the day's special moments: 

 nearly 1,000 students crossed the stage at Merlis Belsher Place

Today’s ceremony marked the final convocation with Peter Stoicheff serving as university president and vice-chancellor.

 nearly 1,000 students crossed the stage at Merlis Belsher Place

The afternoon ceremony also marked Elder Roland Duquette’s 100th convocation, leading in the graduates as the Eagle Staff Bearer and sitting with the other dignitaries, faculty, and leadership on stage.

 nearly 1,000 students crossed the stage at Merlis Belsher Place

At 87 years young, USask ITEP graduate Louise Fraser, a proud member of Mistawasis Nêhiyawak, is the definition of a lifelong learner. She crossed the stage during Fall Convocation, receiving her degree from the College of Education.

 nearly 1,000 students crossed the stage at Merlis Belsher Place

The ceremony includes the celebration of award recipients, as well as the conferral of an honorary degree to Chief Perry Bellegarde. An honorary degree is the university’s most prestigious award, acknowledging worthy and unique contributions recipients have made to their community and to the world.

 nearly 1,000 students crossed the stage at Merlis Belsher Place

This was the first convocation ceremony with Scott Banda as chancellor. USask appointed Banda as its 17th chancellor, an appointment that was confirmed by University Senate on April 26, 2025.

 nearly 1,000 students crossed the stage at Merlis Belsher Place

Dr. Benjamin Hoy, associate professor in the Department of History, was presented with the Distinguished Teacher Award during the ceremonies. 

 nearly 1,000 students crossed the stage at Merlis Belsher Place

There was no shortage of smiles, both on stage and off, as the celebrations continued throughout the day. 

 nearly 1,000 students crossed the stage at Merlis Belsher Place

 nearly 1,000 students crossed the stage at Merlis Belsher Place

 nearly 1,000 students crossed the stage at Merlis Belsher Place

 nearly 1,000 students crossed the stage at Merlis Belsher Place

And, as usual, Howler showed up for the fun! 

 nearly 1,000 students crossed the stage at Merlis Belsher Place