The message of Araiya Bernard’s valedictory address will focus on resilience and the power of community, values shaped through experiences in classrooms, clinics, and communities across the North.
Bernard, a graduate of UNBC’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, was named the Valedictorian for the University’s morning convocation ceremony, set for May 29.
During her time at UNBC, Bernard completed clinical placements in remote communities, such as Haida Gwaii and six remote Gitxsan communities.
“In smaller settings, healthcare often extends beyond tasks,” she said.
“It becomes deeply rooted in trust, stewardship, continuity and understanding the realities of the community.”
Bernard, who is also a third-generation nurse, chose the profession out of a desire to help others in meaningful, practical ways.
“I wanted to pursue a career where compassion, advocacy and skill could come together to make a real difference,” she said.
“Through my clinical experiences and connections with patients and families, I realized nursing was the right path because it allows me to build relationships, provide care and support people during some of their most vulnerable moments.”
This year, she served as president of the UNBC Nursing Club, an undergraduate student representative on the UNBC Senate, a Campus Cousin at the First Nations Centre, and was a member of the student leadership team with the UNBC chapter of the Golden Key International Honour Society.
At Convocation, she will be presented with the Lieutenant Governor’s Silver Medal for Inclusion, Democracy and Reconciliation.
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