Davis & Spencer Named MSVU Valedictorians
Two Bermuda residents – Shannon Davis and Tess Spencer – were named valedictorians during Mount Saint Vincent University’s [MSVU] convocation ceremony, which was held on November 1.
A story on the MSVU website said, “On Sunday, November 1, Mount Saint Vincent University held its first virtual convocation ceremony celebrating both spring and fall 2020 graduates.
“The event recognized the academic achievements of almost a thousand students from more than 30 countries.
“These students have officially achieved their degrees, diplomas, and certificates in arts, science, education, and professional programs and become part of MSVU’s network of more than 34,000 alumni worldwide.”
In another story on the MSVU website, the University featured its 2020 Valedictorians including Shannon Davis and Tess Spencer.
“Having now completed three degrees at MSVU – a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Education and Master of Education – valedictorian Shannon Davis exemplifies many of MSVU’s most cherished values. In addition to being bright, articulate and insightful, Shannon is community-minded, a critical thinker, and a leader. She is known as a supportive classmate and a generous listener.
“Shannon mentions that one of the most meaningful experiences during her studies at MSVU took place when professor Dr. Jonathan Roberts encouraged her to write a paper about a riot or revolutionary movement that occurred in Bermuda.
“She said that, while she initially thought no such event had ever happened in Bermuda, by working together with him she learned about multiple social unrests that took place on the island due to racial tensions. Shannon says it was this awakening that fostered her love for social justice issues.
“Shannon is now back home in Bermuda where her MSVU degrees are already serving her personal and career goals. She is currently enjoying her first year of teaching, with a focus on Grade 6 and 7 Social Studies in the Bermuda Public School System.
“Tess Spencer is an exceptional individual whose academic strength, intelligence and enthusiasm have left a lasting impression among faculty members in the MSVU English Department. As a student at MSVU, Tess raised her voice as a speaker and through lead roles in dramatic readings.
“A dedicated community volunteer, Tess provides her support to initiatives including an autism early intervention centre and as a tutor for children and young adults for the past five years. Tess has also been writing an in-depth analysis about the systematic marginalization of Black men in Bermuda, which she hopes to publish next year.
“Tess says one of the greatest joys from her time at MSVU was becoming Co-Communications Officer for the English Society, alongside her friend Brianna Bean. She says a highlight of her university experience was receiving a free ticket from professor Dr. Diane Piccitto to see former US President Barack Obama speak in person.
“Currently living back in Bermuda, Tess says her next goal is to gain substitute teaching experience before applying for postgraduate degree programs in the field of education.”
You can read the full story here on the Mount Saint Vincent University website.
