From KPU Convocation June 2025 Program
Congratulations to the newest group of alumni from the KPU Wilson School of Design! Your hard work and dedication will take you far in your journey after graduation.
Dr. Alan Davis says in his message from The President and Vice-Chancellor,
Our graduates today will join our existing alumni and make their way into the world of work, citizenship and further learning, reflecting the best of KPU to our communities both locally and globally.
President’s Outstanding Graduate Award
Avery Sims: Fashion Marketing diploma. Avery has excelled in her field of study at KPU, and her contributions to the university community have enhanced the experience of other students and the learning environment as a whole. While completing the Diploma in Fashion Marketing program at the Wilson School of Design at KPU, Avery was an outstanding student exhibiting a sharp ability to apply theoretical concepts to real challenges in fashion marketing. She also proved to be a strong leader, serving as the class representative for the program and as a member of the graduation committee – playing an instrumental role in organizing the design school’s annual grad show.
At KPU, Avery refined her skills in trend forecasting, creative direction and branding strategies. One of her proudest projects was developing a trend forecast for AW26/27, analyzing global sociopolitical climates, consumer emotions and cultural shifts to predict the future of womenswear. Outside of academics, Avery’s commitment to sustainable fashion and community impact has been integral to her growth. As a volunteer with Fashion Revolution, she was part of a team organizing and marketing a large-scale fashion and sustainability showcase on Granville Island. At My Sister’s Closet, she progressed from an in-store volunteer to a lead visual merchandiser. Avery plans to continue her design education at Nottingham Trent University, leveraging a new partnership between the UK institution and KPU.
Dean’s Award
Klara Joubert: Bachelor of Design, Product Design. Throughout her studies in Product Design at the Wilson School of Design at KPU, Klara was an outstanding student with a strong academic record and a thoughtful, research-driven design approach. Klara chose to study Product Design because it allowed her the opportunity to explore many different fields in design, and apply critical thinking and research to the design process. As a research assistant, she contributed meaningfully and consistently, showing initiative and reliability.
Klara’s radiant, supportive personality and willingness to assist her peers and faculty at any moment make her a true asset to our community. Her combination of talent, generosity and leadership truly exemplifies the spirit of this award. But it wasn’t an easy path. An international student from a rural town in South Africa, Klara overcame culture shock through deep reflection, grit and determination to thrive as a student at KPU. With Kwantlen Polytechnic University 41 support from friends, family and instructors, Klara found her feet and stepped boldly into who she’s been able to become. She plans to use her knowledge and skills to make meaningful change in the social innovation sector. In her spare time Klara enjoys running, hiking, and chatting and laughing with friends and family.
Photos for this article were taken by photographer Jay Shaw. See more photos from the ceremony here.
