On May 9, CPABC held two Convocation ceremonies at Vancouver Convention Centre West to celebrate the 846 individuals from BC and Yukon who passed the Common Final Exam (CFE) in May and September 2024.
- Morning Ceremony Video
- Afternoon Ceremony Video
- View the photos from the celebration.
- Access the Convocation program.
Photo: Cakewalk Media Inc.
The ceremonies began with a traditional welcome by Harold Calla, FCPA, FCGA, Executive Chair of the First Nations Financial Management Board. Opening remarks followed from CPABC’s President and CEO Lori Mathison, FCPA, FCGA, Board Chair Peter Guo, CPA, CA, and Yuen Ip, CPA, CMA, CEO of the CPA Western School of Business.
Guo offered the graduates a piece of lasting advice to “always make time for your ongoing learning and development.” He also noted that “Graduation is not the end of your educational journey; it’s a transition to a new phase of learning.” Afterwards, Ip spoke to the potential of artificial intelligence in the profession, describing AI as “augmented intelligence” and encouraging graduates to embrace these tools to foster innovation in their work.
Photo: Cakewalk Media Inc.
Alyssa Andres and Emily Margaret Peters delivered the valedictory addresses at the morning and afternoon ceremonies respectively. Both were among the nine BC candidates who made the 2024 National CFE Honour Roll. Peters also received the CPA Canada Regional Gold Medal for earning the highest score among the candidates from the four western provinces. Andres reminded the graduates that true fulfillment goes beyond status or wealth, saying, “Fulfillment comes when we use our unique abilities and training to help our clients, coworkers, and neighbours; when we go the extra mile and treat every person with kindness.” In Peters’ valedictory address, she reflected on her non-traditional path into accounting, beginning with a degree in World Literature. She emphasized that while educational journeys may differ, shared qualities unite the profession. “No matter how we got here, some shared traits bring us together: dedication, resilience, balance, and critical thinking,” she noted.
Photo: Cakewalk Media Inc.
Photo: Cakewalk Media Inc.
In keeping with a proud tradition, each graduate had the opportunity to walk across the stage to the applause of family and friends. A celebratory reception followed each ceremony.
Photo: Cakewalk Media Inc.
Photo: Cakewalk Media Inc.
Thank you to our video sponsor CPA Insurance Plans West and our platinum sponsors KPMG and MNP. CPABC extends heartfelt congratulations to all the graduates, who represent the next generation of CPAs!