Western convocation moves to Canada Life Place

Western University is holding their convocations at Canada Life Place for the first time.

Western University has begun a week of convocation ceremonies in a new location.

For the first time, graduates are walking across the stage at Canada Life Place (CLP).

Officials say the move will better accommodate graduates and their families.

“You couldn’t tell the difference from Alumni Hall, to be honest. It’s actually, I would say, better. Even the AV system, the speaker system, is fantastic,” said Alan Shepard, the president of Western University.

School logos surround the venue, and a portion of Dundas Place has been transformed into a hub for all things purple and white.

Downtown restaurants and hotels are thrilled that 6,700 grads and their families are spending in the core.

Western confirms ceremonies will continue downtown until a new or revitalized venue opens on campus. No timeline has been set.

“It requires some kind of either change to Alumni Hall or a different facility and we are trying to work through all those options now,” said Shepard.

Shepard added that his team is “gearing up for a campaign” this year.

He also did not rule out remaining at CLP long-term.