2026 Convocation Social Sciences

Ella Stemler, BSc Geography and Enviromental Studies, Double Major

I’m Ella Stemler (they/she) and I grew up on the traditional and unceded lands of the Quw’utsun (Cowichan) peoples. I originally chose to study at UVic because of the psychology program, but switched after learning about the University of Koeye geography field school 

"When I started at UVic five years ago, I didn’t quite know what it meant to show up as myself in my work. To: Sarah Hunt / Tłaliłila’ogwa, Sean Holman, Chris Darimont, and 'Cúagilákv (Jess Housty), thank you for showing everyone, including myself, what it means to show up every step of the way!"

Katherine Taylor-Hood, BA Psychology with Honours

I'm Katherine Taylor-Hood (she/her) and I grew up in the Ktaqmkuk (Newfoundland) which is Beothuk ancestral homelands and a traditional Mi'kmaq gathering place. My ancestry is Scottish, English, Irish and Welsh, and I moved to mətúliyeʔ - lək̓ʷəŋən territory (Victoria) to pursue Psychology at UVic. 

 "Dr. Louise Chim, Dr. Andrea Walsh and hapinyuuk - Dr. Tommy Happynook have shaped me as a learner and researcher. They encouraged me to think creatively about cultural psychology, archival research, and drawing as a research method. I'm grateful for all of the guidance they provided as supervisors for my honours project this past year!" 

Nakoda Ward, BA Indigenous Studies Major, Public Administration Minor

Being Anishinaabe, my culture has always been something I hold close to my chest, which is what drew me towards majoring in Indigenous Studies. Alongside my degree, I also completed a diploma in Indigenous Community Development & Governance. Since I also plan to pursue law school, I chose to minor in Public Administration to strengthen my understanding of policy, jurisdictional, and economic issues. Combining an IS major, PA minor, with an ICDG Diploma allowed me to bring together both my personal passions and long-term career goals.

 "The First People’s House at UVic provides Indigenous students with opportunities such as Research Apprenticeships through LE,NOṈET. With this, I was able to develop a research opportunity in collaboration with LE,NOṈET and the School of Public Administration, under the supervision of Dr. Susanne Thiessen. My research focused on the integration of Indigenous governance principles within institutional policy development."

Emily Goodman, BA Political Science, Minor in Applied Ethics

Growing up in Victoria, I have always had a connection to UVic. Choosing to attend this institution has led to rewarding opportunities, introduced me to new academic passions, and paved the way for success in my future endeavours. I am proud to be graduating with a degree in Political Science and a minor in Applied Ethics. 

 "Many professors left a lasting mark on both my academic and personal journey. In Political Science, the courses I took with Dr. Scott Watson solidified my passion for ethics and international relations."

"Helping to reignite and lead the Model UN Club at UVic has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my degree. Specifically, hosting the VicMUN conference, where local high school students came to UVic to debate topics related to international affairs and contemporary issues, was incredibly rewarding. It gave me a tangible way to contribute to the community as an undergraduate and build connections with so many amazing people. The friendships and tight-knit community that grew out of this club will remain my most cherished memories of UVic."

Keeley Dalton, BA Sociology with Honours

My name is Keeley Dalton and I am graduating with a bachelor’s degree in honours sociology this June convocation week. I grew up here in Victoria and I always knew that I wanted to complete my undergrad at UVic, the third generation of UVic students in my family. While it was in large part a decision based on convenience—great school right here in my hometown—I have not once regretted my choice. 

 "Sociology has absolutely come full circle in my life and I am so grateful to Dr. Ravelli for showing me everything it has to offer and for supporting me in my own research." 

This coming September I will be moving to Vancouver to begin my Master of Arts in sociology at the University of British Columbia. I have UVic, specifically the sociology department, to thank for shaping my academic aspirations that have motivated me to pursue graduate studies. I look forward to what is to come and am grateful for the opportunity to continue doing what I love. 

Jayden Bilous, BSc Anthropology Major

I was born and raised in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, and spent much of my time exploring nature and swimming competitively when not focusing on my academics. Due to my passion for swimming, I decided to attend UVic to swim varsity since a close friend from my club team was on the varsity team. 

 "It was ANTH 250 (Biological Anthropology) with Dr. Kalan, which figuratively “set the hook” for my interest in anthropology and my decision to major in it. I ended up taking the rest of Dr. Kalan’s classes, and thoroughly enjoyed learning from her in each iteration." 

"I attribute many of my past and continued achievements to the dedicated faculty I had surrounding me during my time at UVic and I will be forever grateful for their support."

Bianca Ramirez Guisse, BSc Honours Economics with Distinction 

My name is Bianca Ramirez Guisse, and I am receiving a Bachelor of Science in Honours Economics with Distinction from the University of Victoria. I grew up in Lima, Peru, and came to Canada for the first time when I was 20 years old, together with my family. Before joining UVic, I had completed three years of university studies in Lima at a university recognized for its strong economics program, and I was able to transfer credits toward my degree.

 "One of the most meaningful moments from my time at UVic was being invited to join the Honours Economics program. That opportunity gave me the confidence to challenge myself academically and pursue independent research."

After graduation, I hope to continue building a career that combines economics, research, data analysis, and policy. I am especially interested in areas related to sustainability, financial analysis, and evidence-based decision-making. My goal is to keep developing my analytical skills and contribute to work that has a meaningful impact.

Estrella Whetung, Indigenous Goverance, Doctor of Philosphy

Misi-zaagiing/Mshi-zaagiing Nishnaabe miinwaa Lucbanin ndaaw. Dik miinwaa Jiijaak ndoodemag. Estrella Whetung ndzhnikaaz. Pemdashkodeyaang, Oshkiigmong, miinwaa Lucban ndoonjibaa. I am grateful to have grown up and learned on the territories of the Lək̓ʷəŋən (Songhees and Xʷsepsəm), W̱SÁNEĆ, and SC'IȺNEW nations.

I’m receiving is a Doctor of Philosophy in the School of Indigenous Governance. When I started my studies the IGOV PhD program hadn’t launched yet, so this was a degree by special arrangement (SPARR). 

I started my formal post-secondary education at Camosun College in the Indigenous Studies program and then transferred to UVic. I continued my PhD at UVic because of all of my inspirational mentors and student peers as well as the many supportive staff members. I especially thank everyone who helped me in my home department as well as the folks who worked at the Indigenous Student Support Centre in the Faculty of Human and Social Development.

My committee members for my PhD studies have been wonderful long-time teachers in my life—some of whom I've known for over twenty years. Each person I've been lucky enough to work with has had a lasting impact on my life and has contributed to how I engage relationally.

I am looking forward to enjoying my Summer through my upcoming art projects. I am also excited to be going up to Inuvik to teach as a visiting Indigenous workshop artist at the Great Northern Arts Festival.