University of Regina celebrates 40th Spring Convocation

Posted: June 4, 2014 10:30 a.m.

President’s Medal recipient Matthew Dipple with President and Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Vianne Timmons. Photo: U of R Photography

The University’s annual Spring Convocation marks a special milestone – it’s the 40th anniversary of an independent University of Regina. On July 1, 1974, with the passing of the University of Regina Act, the University of Regina became an independent degree-granting institution.

The 2014 Spring Convocation ceremonies are being held June 4, 5, and 6 at the Conexus Art Centre.

At both Spring and Fall Convocation ceremonies, the President’s Medal is presented to an undergraduate student who demonstrates the strongest combination of academic excellence and extra-curricular leadership.

This spring’s recipient is Matthew Dipple who graduates with Great Distinction from the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science with an average above 91 per cent. He is also the recipient of three other awards: the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists Gold Medal, Johnson and Perry Award in Cooperative Education, and Dean’s Medal in Engineering and Applied Science.

Dipple is devoted to extra-curricular activities.  As president of the Campion College chapter of the Alpha Sigma Nu Jesuit Honour Society, he has dedicated considerable time to enhancing the educational experiences of his fellow students. He has also served on the University’s Executive of Council, on the Campion College Students’ Union, and with the Campus Catholic Outreach.  As well, he has been a volunteer gardener for the Regina Public Interest Research Group, and worked as a teaching assistant for a first-year engineering design class.

Dipple has also demonstrated a dedication to the spiritual life of his fellow Campion College students. He served as a lay presider and a lector for the Campion College Campus Ministry, and was a member of the Campion College Vocations Committee.

Dipple’s volunteerism extends well beyond the University and Campion College. The Marian Centre, Madonna House Apostolate, AIDS Program South Saskatchewan and Ignite Summer Camp are among the organizations he has served in different capacities.

He also enjoys sports, having played in the University’s Intramural Ultimate Frisbee league and the Regina Church Hockey League. He is a dedicated musician and has been a long-serving member of the Halcyon Chamber Choir and the Holy Rosary Cathedral Music Ministry.