From opening night on Wednesday, May 4 to closing on Sunday, OCAD University was teeming with excited visitors for its annual graduate exhibition, GradEx 101.
More than 900 students exhibited their thesis projects throughout the campus. On Wednesday night, special guests, medal winners and their friends and families joined faculty members for Celebrate Excellence, a private party where the names of medalists were announced.
In her speech, Laura Thipphawong, the first medal winner in the Visual and Critical Studies program, reflected on how the support and inspiration of faculty members and her peers influenced her. “Not only have they encouraged me in getting a head start in my career, being immersed in an environment centred on the things I truly care about has made a world of difference.”
“Tonight is an evening of great pride, where we give back to the city of Toronto through the presentation of the talent who will contribute to social, economic and cultural transformation here and far beyond,” said Dr. Sara Diamond, president and vice-chancellor.
High school students came by the busload on Thursday and Friday, enjoying the wide range of art, design and digital media projects, some asking about the admissions process.
On Saturday, over 200 alumni, from the Class of 1952 to the Class of 2015, came back to campus to enjoy VIP treatment in the Alumni Lounge.
OCAD University’s annual Graduate Exhibition is generously supported by Presenting Sponsor Mercedes-Benz Financial Services, Delaney Capital Management, First Capital Realty, Borden Ladner Gervais LLP, CP24 (Media Supporter), NOW (Media Supporter) and Steam Whistle Brewing (Event Supporter).