Meet your valedictorians: Kendra Neary
Connection has played an important part in Kendra Neary’s post-secondary journey, especially because her path didn’t start the way she had planned.
“I started university online in the fall of 2020 and struggled with distance learning,” she says. “I did not learn the important lessons one hopes to gain from their first year.”
Kendra decided to take a semester off to reconsider her options before deciding to enroll at VIU. With the encouragement of her friends and family and the support of her professors and peers, she began to thrive.
“After my first semester, I knew I wanted to pursue the Bachelor of Education program,” she says. “From English and history to French, and even math, I loved every single course I ever took, and always felt deep purpose, enjoyment and support.”
Kendra says the time she spent creating opportunities for and connections with her classmates is among her fondest memories. This year she helped organize the Education Career Fair, which connected education students with potential employers in Western Canada, with a total of 18 organizations participating. “Employers noted how impressed they were with VIU students,” she adds.
Learning alongside her classmates in the Faculty of Education cohorts has been a highlight of her time in the program.
“Unlike larger institutions, where cohorts are often grouped by specialty subjects or grades, our cohorts feature students with different aspirations and educational backgrounds,” she says.
And though their backgrounds and goals may differ, “my cohort is united by compassion and a shared commitment to showing up as our best selves to support our current and future students.”
She’s excited to watch her class make a meaningful difference in schools and communities.
“I am confident that my fellow graduates have both the competency and the passion to alter the current system for the better, both inside and outside the classroom,” she says.
Outside the classroom, Kendra says it’s the smaller moments with her classmates that she’ll never forget.
“From rummy at the student pub, to Secret Santa, these small memories are what make the experience,” she says.
Kendra will deliver the valedictory speech at the June 8 morning ceremony, addressing her peers in the Faculties of Education and Academic and Career Preparation. She hopes students following behind her remember to make time for joy, connection and balance.
“Maintaining small moments of fun throughout the school year is essential for maintaining well-being and a positive outlook,” she says. “While there may be lesson plans to finish, and assignments to complete, there is always time for music bingo or Catan girls’ night.”
Related Posts
