First BAPP graduates celebrate at Kestrel Centre
Wrenford Polytechnic conferred degrees on the first cohort of Bachelor of Applied Business graduates at a ceremony held at the Kestrel Centre on June 11, 2026. The event marked the culmination of the program's first full graduating class.
President Dr. Evelyn Marsh-Tanaka addressed the graduates, their families, and faculty in the Kestrel Centre. She noted that the new applied degrees are a direct response to local industry needs and represent the next step in the polytechnic's evolution since moving to the Benchlands Campus in 1974.
"Made to work is not just our motto; it is the promise we make to every student who walks through our doors," Dr. Marsh-Tanaka said. "Today, you are proving that promise by combining technical skills with the leadership and business acumen that employers are looking for."
The Bachelor of Applied Business — Accounting program is delivered through the School of Business & Media on the Mercer Street Campus. Students in the four-year degree complete eight terms of study followed by a 14-week co-op placement.
Graduates left the ceremony with a Bachelor of Applied Business degree and the experience of a paid work term. Many will now enter the workforce as accounting professionals or continue their studies in graduate certificate programs.
The ceremony was followed by a reception at the Student Union Building food hall, where families and friends gathered to celebrate the achievement.
For more information on graduation procedures, diploma collection, and commencement details, visit the Registrar page.
Looking ahead
The polytechnic will hold a second convocation ceremony on June 12, 2026, also at the Kestrel Centre, to ensure all graduates have the opportunity to attend.
Wrenford Polytechnic continues to expand its applied degree offerings. The Bachelor of Applied Technology — Software Development and the Bachelor of Applied Technology — Advanced Manufacturing are also preparing their first cohorts for graduation in the coming years.