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Congratulations, Mustangs! You did it! Now, celebrate with friends and family.

To celebrate those who helped, inspired and encouraged the Class of 2020 along the way to this significant milestone, graduates are writing messages of GRADitude to family, friends, professors and more. Mustangs, write your GRADitude notes here!


Thank you to my parents who sacrificed so much for me. Without their support, I don't know where I'd be. Thank you to my 6West family for the great memories of our friendship. S/O to section 1 for making Ivey one of the best experiences. Y'all are amazing

FROM:

Aaser Sadek, HBA
Fort McMurray AB, Canada
Ivey Business School
aaser._

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020

I remember my first day at Western and the excitement that came along with it like yesterday. 8 years and 2 degrees later, Western will always have a special place in my heart. Thank you to all the fantastic people I've met along the way. Mustang Forever!

FROM:

Abdullah Ramadan, Bachelors and Masters
Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates
Civil and Environmental Engineering
abdullahram4 ramadanabdullah

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
I thank my family, friends, and staff here at Western for giving me hope to persevere amongst the difficult times in which it was tempting to give up. Ultimately though, I've realized it was God who was guiding and protecting me the most. Alhamdulillah!
FROM:

Abdulrahman Mohammed Salih, Honours Specialization in Computer Science
LONDON ON, Canada
Science
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdulrahman-mohammed-salih-597143150/

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020

Proud to graduate from Western (again!) this time with Masters in Professional Education. I look forward to my continued journey learning about effective leadership, especially in a virtual world. Thank you to my family, my professors and all staff.

FROM:

Abrar (Abby) Al-Takriti, MPEd
London ON, Canada
Education
abraralta abrar_alta abby-al-takriti-17222650/

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020

Special gratitude to my dear husband and children. Sincere appreciation to Dr. Amardeep Thind for his exemplary leadership and all the Professors and staff of the Schulich Interfaculty Program in Public Health. Thank you UWO. Congratulations MPH class of 2020!

FROM:

Adeola Oyelade, MPH
London ON, Canada
Public Health and Family Medicine
AdeolaOyelade4 deola_o linkedin.com/in/adeola-oyelade-mph-msc-mba-269a9210

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020

I dedicate this accomplishment to my parents, the two most important people in my life. My constant support, drive, and motivation. I can never thank you enough.

FROM:

Amal Muselmani, Health Studies
London ON, Canada
Faculty of Health Sciences
amalmuselmani Amal.muselmani

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020

How I wish my grandmom was around to see this day, although you are no more but your memories still live with me; my degree is dedicated to you grandmom. Thanks for making it possible for me to be educated in spite you weren't educated.

FROM:

Aminata Foeday
London Ontario, Canada
Social Justice and Peace Studies
Aminat_Mahmud Aminat_Mahmud

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
Thank you to the amazing members of the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology for such an amazing experience at Western. A special thank you to Dr. Urquhart, Dr. Tirona, Dr. Woods and Dr. Schwarz for teaching me and allowing me to love phys/pharm.
FROM:

Ashley Domingues, Honors Specialization in Pharmacology
Barrie ON, Canada
Physiology and Pharmacology

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
A big thank you to my friends and family for supporting me along my journey at Western. I have made some amazing friendships that will last a lifetime. Thank you to my amazing boyfriend for being my biggest support system through every midterm and final.
FROM:

Ashley Domingues, Honors Specialization in Pharmacology
Barrie ON, Canada
Physiology and Pharmacology

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
I want to thank Rachel Wilson and Dr. Nica Borradaile for an amazing fourth-year experience in the lab. Although our time was cut short, I will take so much of what I have learned with me in my future endeavours. Thank you for the laughs and the memories.
FROM:

Ashley Domingues, Honors Specialization in Pharmacology
Barrie ON, Canada
Physiology and Pharmacology

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
Thank you to Patricia Mason and Lauren Starr for the amazing opportunity to complete the science internship program during my time at Western. The preparation workshops and the work-term will always be so valuable to me.
FROM:

Ashley Domingues, Honors Specialization in Pharmacology
Barrie ON, Canada
Physiology and Pharmacology

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020

Studying at UWO has been a period of my life that has meant so much to me. One of my big dreams was to wear a convocation gown, and taking pictures with my grandsons on campus. The dream didn't come true but I finally experience a virtual PhD graduation!

FROM:

Azar Varahrami Vigeh, PhD
Toronto Ontario, Canada
Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
azar_varahra https://www.linkedin.com/in/azar-varahra/

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
Graduating from Western is a promise kept. I'm the third in my family to graduate from University, a milestone my two sons achieved over 25 years ago. Now I watch my grandchildren begin their journey. Thank you Western.
FROM:

Barry Britcher, B.A.
Toronto Ontario, Canada
Social Science

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020

My family - especially my parents - can never be thanked enough for their continuous love and support, particularly over the last four years. Without them, I would definitely not be where I am today and I'm so thankful every day for them!

FROM:

Caitlynn Mirabelli, Honours Specialization Biochemistry and Cell Biology
Hamilton ON, Canada
Basic Medical Sciences

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020

Dr. Beveridge, when I went to your classes back in 3rd year, I always left the room energized and excited about human anatomy. It was an honour to have you as my PI for my thesis project. You're such an amazing supervisor & I hope you know that!

FROM:

Chih-Sheng Liao, BMSc
Markham Ontario, Canada
Medical Sciences
pheebs_liao phoebe-liao

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020

I'd like to dedicate this degree to my parents who have supported me and talked me out of changing programs, my friends for taking weldon staircase breaks with me, my dorm friends during first year who made me feel at home and made it easier to transition.

FROM:

Dana Shala, Honours Specialization Nutrition and Dietetics
London ON, Canada
Brescia
dana-shala-b07543111

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
I'd like to thank my professors, friends, family and all others who have have been a part of my journey over the past few years. I would like to thank my professors especially for introducing me to the world of literature. I am happy to have grown here.
FROM:

Diego Gonzalez, B. A. Honours
London ON, Canada
Arts & Humanitites

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
Thank you to my mom, dad and brother for helping me get through my degree. To all the friends I've loved and lost, thank you for teaching me more about myself than I knew. Cheers to the best 5 years of my life...so far! Mustangs forever!
FROM:

Dyanca D'Lima
Richmond Hill ON, Canada
Social Science
dyancadlima

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
The decision to attend Western has been truly life-changing! I couldn't have done it without the support of my family, friends, amazing profs, and supportive staff. Thank you Western for delivering on your promise of the best student experience!
FROM:

Erin Anderson, Honours Specialization in Creative Writing and English Language and Literature
London ON, Canada
Arts & Humanities
@MrsAwwkward @hippie.feet https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-anderson-she-her-0b2132134/

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
I would like to thank my aunt and uncle (Gohar & Shahid) who live in London for their unconditional support and love during my time at Western University. I have learned so much from you guys. Thank you for all the love and amazing memories!
FROM:

Fatima Shaikh, Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Brampton ON, Canada
Faculty of Health Sciences
tima_s30 https://www.linkedin.com/feed/?trk=guest_homepage-basic_nav-header-signin

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
First, I want to thank God for leading me successfully through this journey. Thank you, my family, friends, and my instructors at Western university, for being part of this my journey. To my lovely children, I cannot thank you enough for your prayers.
FROM:

Gloria Emenogu, EdD
Mississauga ON, Canada
Education

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
To my beloved parents, thank you so much for giving me the wings to fly. Thank you, my lovely children, for your prayers and support. Thank you my indefatigable darling husband, I would not be where I am today without you. You have always stood by me.
FROM:

Gloria Emenogu, EdD
Mississauga ON, Canada
Education

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
Thank you Western, teachers, and colleagues for this amazing experience!!! So proud to be part of the Class 2020!!
FROM:

Javier Gomez Ospina, Master of Engineering
London ON, Canada
Civil and Environmental Engineering
Javier_Gomez_Ospina Javier_Gomez_Ospina

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020

I want to thank my mom and dad for everything they have done so that I can graduate. Everything from late night chats, rants about homework or when I'm overwhelmed, and teaching me how to live on my own. They have supported me through it all! Thank you!

FROM:

Jenna Bozzo, BA Philosophy & Criminology
Toronto Ontario, Canada
Arts & Humanities
jennabozzo

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
Thank you! School has flown by and has changed my life for the better due to the fantastic teachers, support & fellow students. Thank you to everyone who is celebrating 2020 graduation with me. It was truly one of the greatest experiences of my life!
FROM:

Jenny Stapleton, Certificate in Loss, Grief & Bereavement Studies
London ON, Canada
Thanatology
@jennylks jennylks jennifer.stapleton@rogers.com

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020

My gratitude runs deeper than any post could ever capture. Nonetheless: I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to complete my master's in OT, and enter a field I LOVE. Thank you to my amazing parents for their ongoing love and support!

FROM:

Jordana Bengall, MScOT
Richmond Hill Ontario, Canada
Occupational Therapy
occYOUpations

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
I dedicate this achievement to my parents for their sacrifices and support. Their constant love and guidance helped me reach where I am today. And a huge shoutout to my friends because of whom the journey at UWO turned out to be a beautiful experience!
FROM:

Karman Kaur, MEng
London ON, Canada
Engineering

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020

My family, thank you for your continued love and support, I would not be where I am today without every one of you. To my parents, I am the person I am today because of you. I couldn't be any more proud to call you my mom and dad. Love Kyle

FROM:

Kyle Hegger, BMOS
Ilderton ON, Canada
Global Commerce
Kyle.Hegger

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
Fasten your seatbelt, Leila. Shiny future is ahead...
FROM:

Leila Bahman, MESc
Grimsby ON, Canada
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Leilabahman leilabahman

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
I appreciate the support of my family, friends, coworkers in Equity & Human Rights Services and the exceptional Professors in the Faculty of Education that helped me on this incredible journey!
FROM:

Lesley Oliver, MPEd.
London ON, Canada
Education
LesleyOliverA lesleyaoliver lesleyoliver1

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
"Life is my college. May I graduate well, and earn some honors!" Thank you for everyone who believes in me and supported me during my challenging time. Love you all!
FROM:

Mai El najjar, MESc-Biomedical Engineer
Vancouver BC, Canada
Faculty of Engineering
Maynajjar

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020

Ten Years. The story started 2009 and finished 2020: my Undergraduate, Masters and PhD. Sweet memories with melancholic thought. I will never get back to those days but my memory of Western will remain forever.

FROM:

Mansur Mulk, PhD
London Ontario, Canada
Engineering
mdmansurulmulk

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
Western has their "best student experience" guarantee for recruiting new students. Thank you for exceeding those expectations. To all my new friends and colleagues I met along the way, I'm beyond grateful for everything.
FROM:

Mark Da Costa
Burlington ON, Canada
Science
mark_dacosta markdacosta97

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
I would like to thank my friends and family for their support over the last 5 years. Mom, Mike, Aziz, and Travis: I could not have done ANY of this without you. I love you all so much and I am so grateful for everything you have done to take care of me.
FROM:

Melissa Elliott, Master of Arts
London ON, Canada
Sociology

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
To Dr. Sean Waite: thank you for all of your guidance and support over the past year of my studies. I wouldn't be pursuing my PhD now without your positivity and encouragement. You inspire me to be a better sociologist. Thank you for believing in me.
FROM:

Melissa Elliott, Master of Arts
London ON, Canada
Sociology

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
I would like to thank my friends and family for their support over the last 5 years. Mom, Mike, Aziz, and Travis: I could not have done ANY of this without you. I love you all so much and I am so grateful for everything you have done to take care of me.
FROM:

Melissa Elliott, Master of Arts
London ON, Canada
Sociology

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020

Thank you, mom and dad, for your guidance and support. You've inspired and encouraged me to be the best student I could possibly be and I wouldn't have gotten where I am today without you. And thank you, Western, for the great memories! It's been a ride!

FROM:

Mohammad Noor Tamim, Bachelor of Engineering Science
London ON, Canada
Civil and Environmental Engineering
Noor._Tamim mohammad-noor-tamim

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020

Words are inadequate to express my sincere gratitude to my amazing supervisor Dr. Paulette Rothbauer for her exceptional research and academic support for the last six years. You are the best! Thank you FIMS for an exceptional learning experience.

FROM:

Nafiz Shuva, PhD
London ON, Canada
Information and Media Studies
@NafizShuva nafizshuva

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
Thank you baba for supporting me through my studies, mama for calling me every day to check if I remembered to eat, Kamel for always making sure I was living comfortably away from home, and Shania for making my 4 years at UWO the most memorable.
FROM:

Nassima Kaddoura, BA
Newmarket ON, Canada
Kinesiology

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
Thanks to my mom and and dad for supporting me through school and putting up with me all these years. I couldn't have done this without them. Hope there will be an in person graduation so we can have a traditional celebration too!
FROM:

Nick Meisner, BSc
Tiny ON, Canada
Faculty of Science

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
I would like to say thank you to all the Brescia staff, professors and international student coordinator. You all supported and guided me to achieve my goal. Thank you very much to Brescia University College.
FROM:

Priyanka Priyanka, MOS
London ON, Canada

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
Thank you to my wonderful professors, Shawn Spicer, Aaron Hodgson, Dr. Watson and Dr. Richardson (among many others) for your unwavering support these past 5 years. I will always remember how fantastic you made this experience.
FROM:

Samantha Lanooy, BMusA/HBA
London ON, Canada
Music
Samantha.Lanooy

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
I want to dedicate this accomplishment to my mom and dad for their unconditional love and support. I also want to thank my best friend Nassima for supporting me along my journey at Western. My decision to attend Western has been truly life changing.
FROM:

Shania Abdollahi, Criminology
Richmond Hill ON, Canada
Social Science
shania_abdollahi Shania.Abdollahi

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020

Thanks to everyone who helped me along the way at Western! What an incredible 4 years - I will cherish them for the rest of my life and hope to get back to London again sometime. Thanks to everyone who lent a hand, made me smile, or laughed at my jokes.

FROM:

Stefan Jovanovic, Criminology & American Studies
Toronto ON, Canada
Social Science

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020

Thank you to my parents for their unwavering support especially the last 4 years. I wouldn't be where I am without you, my success is a proxy to your love and patience. Big shout-out to all of my lovely friends, here's to 2020 and many more celebrations!

FROM:

Sudiksha Singh, Honours Specialization in Animal Behaviour
Mississauga ON, Canada
Science
Sudiksha_Singh

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
#GRADitude2020 Thanks to my family for the extra love, support and encouragement that kept me through the long days, all-nighters and everything in between.
FROM:

Suzette Vacianna, MPEd, Curriculum and Pedagogy
London ON, Canada
Education

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
Thank you! Best 4 years!
FROM:

Tianyi Zhang
London ON, Canada
Social Science
leslietyz

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
Coming to Western was one of the best decisions i've ever made. I'm grateful to piano professor Stephan Sylvester for believing in me, and for helping me reach my full potential.
FROM:

William Snyder, Artist Diploma
Toronto ON, Canada
Music
snydrmeistr williamsnyder

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
Thanks for the virtual celebration! I appreciate it. I spent valuable and memorable time at Western. Thanks all my teachers, Stacey, Robert, Dawson, and so on. Thanks all my friends here. Shout out to our every Weldon night!!!!!
FROM:

Xueqing Tan, Bmos
Toronto ON, Canada
Accounting
sunnytan_

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020
I wanna express my gratitude to my supervisor Frank Boers who guided me to graduation. Without his support, I couldn't graduate ahead of time. My thanks also go to my husband Miguel Arambula, my parents and sister. Their love makes everything meaningful.
FROM:

Yin (Lynn) Gao, MA
Fresno CA, United States
Education

@westernuAlumni #purpleandproud #WesternClassof2020 #GRADitude2020