eNews Summer 2020 - Campus News
A Virtual Graduation
On June 21, 2020, virtual graduation was a reality for 112 graduates of Burman University.
A brief organ “processional” was followed by a graduation address by Stephen Reason, Assistant Professor of Religious Studies at Burman. Referencing the class aim, “Change the World,” Reasor reminded members of the class that during their time at Burman University, they have changed. Now, following their passion and living with purpose, they have the ability to change the corner of the world in which they live.
Each graduating student was recognized by a picture or brief video, a statement of their degree and major, and their hometown. The President’s Medallions of Excellence, awarded to summa cum laude graduates who have earned the highest GPA in their programs, were presented to Leah Holden (4-year BA) and Timothy Jakovac (4-year BS).
All 2020 graduates are invited to return to campus to participate, face-to-face, in the 2021 commencement weekend services.
English Program Suspended Due to Low Enrolment
For several years, the 3- and 4-year BA programs in English have faced low enrolment. Because of this, the difficult decision was made to suspend these majors. If demand were to increase in the next five years, they could be reinstated without having to apply for government approval. Low enrolment also led to the closure of the 3-year history major this year.
Students currently enrolled in the English program will be able to complete their major. English courses for breadth requirements will still be taught, as well as courses for education students with a specialization or minor in English.
Fundraising Campaign Moves Forward, Despite COVID-19
Because of COVID-19, people find that many activities have been put on hold. But not Burman University’s fundraising campaign, Shaping the World: Lives of Service Begin Here. Since May 2020, almost $30,000 has been donated to the library portion of this three-pronged campaign.
In 2019, Burman began a campaign to raise $10 million to transform the library, to foster student success initiatives, and to focus on academic programs and faculty research. More than half of the $10 million goal has been raised in cash and pledges.
| Project Name: | Amount Raised |
| Library | $3,866,621.05 |
| Student Success | $ 879,233.15 |
| Faculty and Programs | $ 432,708.03 |
| Total | $5,178,562.23 |
Until recently, Burman planned to transform its library building with an addition and renovations. Currently, Administration is exploring the possibility of building an entirely new structure.
Homecoming 2020 Postponed
Sowing on the Hilltop – Harvesting for Eternity
Because of the pandemic, Homecoming 2020 has been postponed until June 4-6, 2021, when we’re planning to hold a double honour year event. We hope to see you then!
Honour classes: 2016, 2015, 2011, 2010, 2006, 2005, 2001, 2000, 1996, 1995, 1991, 1990, 1986, 1985, 1981, 1980, 1976, 1975, 1971, 1970, 1966, 1965, 1961, 1960, 1956, 1955, 1951, 1950, 1946, 1945, and all classes prior to 1945.