On the afternoon of November 23, 2024, the Buddhist College of Canada, in collaboration with Emmanuel College of Victoria University in the University of Toronto, hosted the graduation ceremony for the inaugural cohort of its “Compassionate Canopy” Continuing Education Buddhist Studies Program. This event marked a significant milestone in the partnership between the Buddhist College of Canada and Emmanuel College, as well as a celebratory moment for the 24 graduates of this groundbreaking program.
Opening Remarks by Venerable Dayi
Ven. Dayi, President of the Buddhist Association of Canada and President of the Board of Directors of the Buddhist College of Canada, extended his heartfelt gratitude to the guests and the broader community. He expressed his joy in celebrating the first graduating class of the Continuing Education Program and acknowledged the significance of this milestone. In his remarks, Ven. Dayi expressed gratitude to Principal Kim-Cragg for her vision and guidance, which were instrumental in bringing this program to fruition. He emphasized the program’s focus on cultivating Buddhist talent through its unique approach of blending theoretical teachings with practical applications, creating a holistic and enriching learning experience. Ven. Dayi also highlighted the Buddhist College’s motto, “Realize the Mind, Enlighten the World,” encouraging graduates to bring light into their own lives and the lives of others through the wisdom gained in this program. Looking ahead, he invited the graduates to share their learning experiences with future students, inspiring others to embark on this transformative journey.
Remarks by Principal Kim-Cragg
Principal Kim-Cragg expressed her delight at the success of this inaugural collaboration, which exceeded all expectations. She thanked Ven. Dayi for his visionary leadership in providing students with a spiritually enriching learning environment at Wutai Shan Buddhist Garden and extended her heartfelt gratitude to all the volunteers who contributed to this achievement.
She also announced an exciting development: following a rigorous selection process conducted by the Search Committee made up of 8 members (faculties, alumni, and students), chaired by Principal Kim-Cragg, Professor Jennifer Bright was appointed to the Wutai Shan Venerable Dayi Professorship in Buddhist Spiritual Care. Ven. Dayi expressed his joy, noting that Professor Jennifer Bright also serves as an instructor at the Buddhist College of Canada. He emphasized that this appointment will undoubtedly strengthen the collaboration with Emmanuel College. He conveyed his confidence that Professor Bright will continue to share the wisdom and compassion of Buddhism through spiritual care, benefiting people from all walks of life.
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Speeches by Professors
Four professors—Eleanor Pontoriero, Jennifer Bright, Barbara Hazelton, and Henry Shiu—shared their reflections during the event. They expressed heartfelt gratitude for the leadership of Ven. Dayi and Principal Kim-Cragg, as well as their privilege to teach at the spiritually enriching Wutai Shan Buddhist Garden.
The professors were deeply impressed by the dedication and enthusiasm of the 24 outstanding students, noting that they had also learned a great deal from their engagement. They expressed their excitement about continuing their teaching at Wutai Shan in the future.
Professor Eleanor Pontoriero
Professor Jennifer Bright
Professor Barbara Hazelton
Professor Songxiong Shao
Buddhist College of Canada Student Reflections
Janet Lee, a student of the Buddhist Academy
Janet Lee shared her journey of witnessing the collaboration between the Buddhist Association of Canada and Emmanuel College, which began from scratch and ultimately culminated in a remarkable success. Reflecting on this process, she expressed immense joy and deep emotion, acknowledging that today’s achievements were hard-earned and made possible through the silent dedication of countless individuals. As a student of the inaugural program, Janet expressed a profound sense of pride and candidly shared how much she had gained from the experience, both personally and spiritually.
Christopher Fung, a student of the Buddhist Academy
Christopher Fung sincerely shared that he gained invaluable insights from this learning experience and, through personal engagement, developed a deeper appreciation for the importance of education. He emphasized that today’s graduation is not the end but rather the beginning of a new milestone in the journey ahead.
Amina Moon, a student of the Buddhist Academy
Amina Moon expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Buddhist College of Canada and Emmanuel College for fostering a learning environment filled with care and inspiration. What began as a personal interest course over the three-month program evolved into a profound call to action. The teachings encouraged inner transformation, while the teachings of the Eightfold Paths, particularly “Right Effort”, inspired participants to cultivate positive states of mind, abandon unwholesome mindsets, and integrate these principles into a daily framework of mindfulness and intentionality. She emphasized that, while it is important to recognize that everyone is doing their best, we are also called to strive for better—for ourselves, for others, and for the world.
Mandy Sandhu, a student of the Buddhist Academy
Mandy Sandhu said “I have always longed to deepen my understanding of Buddhism, and it wasn’t until I happened to step into the Wutai Shan Buddhist Garden that I discovered this program. This program has significantly enriched my life, allowing me to apply the knowledge I gained to my work in psychotherapy. The integration of Buddhism and psychotherapy has provided me with valuable new insights. While I had previously taught mindfulness courses, this program offered me a fresh perspective. Professor Eleanor’s teachings, in particular, were deeply inspiring. I also recall a profound experience studying sutras with Professor Henry, who explained how Chinese symbols convey complex ideas. In that moment, I had a revelation about the Sanskrit origins of these concepts, which added an entirely new dimension to my understanding. This program has profoundly moved me, and I am committed to continuing my study of Buddhist teachings. I am deeply honored to be part of the first cohort of the ‘Compassionate Canopy’ program and to have shared this transformative journey with such outstanding classmates.”
Master William shared his reflections during the ceremony. He said:”I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my Master, Venerable Dayi, who not only ordained me this past May but also supported my Dharma practice at the Wutai Shan Buddhist Garden and generously sponsored my enrollment in this program. Without his help, I would not be able to share this transformative experience today. I also wish to thank Principal Kim-Cragg and Ven. Dayi for their dedicated efforts in ensuring the success of this course. Additionally, I am deeply grateful to the professors at Emmanuel College, whose insights and teachings have profoundly enriched our learning journey. This program has laid a solid foundation for our Dharma practice. However, the philosophy of Dharma practice is both profound and expansive, requiring a lifetime of exploration. While this course has concluded, our journey in Dharma practice has only just begun. I sincerely encourage all my fellow students and mentors to continue exploring their path of mindfulness through Dharma practice. I genuinely look forward to seeing everyone here discover their own opportunities for E”
Venerable Shengwei, a student of the Buddhist Academy
Venerable Master Dayi and Principal Kim-Cragg Jointly Presented Certificates to the Graduates
Graduation Certificates and Closing Reflections
Venerable Dayi and Principal Kim-Cragg presented certificates to the graduates. The ceremony was a harmonious blend of joy, gratitude, and anticipation for new journeys, leaving an indelible mark of significance and beauty.
The event concluded with group photos to commemorate the occasion.