‘It is done’: Sask. residential school survivor graduates from university at 87

WATCH: About a thousand graduates from the University of Saskatchewan walked on the stage on Wednesday for fall convocation. Among them one graduate stood out.

About 1,000 graduates from the University of Saskatchewan walked the stage Monday for fall convocation. Students from dozens of colleges celebrated their achievements.

Among them, one graduate stood out, proving that learning really is a lifelong journey.

That student is Louise Fraser, who received her degree from the College of Education.

There were extra cheers from the crowd when Fraser’s name was announced, and they were all just for her. That’s because Fraser has a few more years of experience than most of her fellow grads - she’s 87 years old.

But age didn’t stop her from walking the stage and earning her education diploma with distinction through the Indian Teacher Education Program (ITEP).

“It’s amazing. I’m actually relieved that it is done,” she told CTV News moments after getting off the stage with her diploma in an envelope, securely in her hand.

She’s from the Mistawasis Nehiyawak First Nation and her reason for going back to school all these years later is deeply personal.

“My goal is to pass the language on. Keep speaking and passing it on,” she said.

For Fraser, this degree is about healing and preserving her culture.

“I lost my language when I was in residential school. You were forbidden to speak your language.”

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It’s not her first time in the classroom either, she already holds several diplomas and a master’s degree in social work.

She was one of 992 students walked the stage including grads from the colleges of agriculture, dentistry, engineering and nursing.

“Amazing. It’s been such a long journey. Tough, sleepless nights, but so excited it’s finally done and ready to start my career,” nursing graduate Salad Sagal said.

“It was hardship, teamwork and I couldn’t do it without my family, my girlfriend, my friends,” newly graduated nursing student Vance Seymour Rallos Legaspino said.

As for Fraser, she’s not done yet. She hopes to be teaching Cree to Saskatchewan students very soon.

“I’m still waiting for my teaching certificate. I hope I get it next week so I can get into the classroom before Christmas.”

When she does, it’ll be a Christmas gift for the next generation - sharing a language and a legacy of learning.