BCIT celebrates 2026 valedictorians

BCIT is thrilled to announce Felix Omondi, Ethan Van Dyk, Savannah Hamilton, Shervin Laghaie, Simone Chiang, Abigail Calivioso, and Caitey Gilchrist as valedictorians for the graduating class of 2026.

BCIT Convocation Ceremonies will take place from June 23 to 26 to celebrate graduates as they begin their next chapter with job-readiness.

Felix Omondi (Ceremony 1 – June 23 at 10:00 am)

Felix is graduating from the General Insurance and Risk Management diploma program. He has maintained a high GPA and has been awarded multiple scholarships to recognize his outstanding performance. Felix participated in an insurance competition in Toronto where his team placed second nationally. Outside school, Felix contributed to the BCIT community through peer tutoring, working as weight room attendant, and volunteering for Big Info events.

Ethan Van Dyk (Ceremony 2 – June 23 at 2:30 pm)

Ethan is graduating with distinction from the Bachelor of Business Administration program. During his studies, he served as President of Enactus BCIT, Chair of the School of Business + Media on the BCIT Student Association Executive Board, and Peer Tutor. He is a recipient of the Academic Award for Entrepreneurship and the Laurie Jack Award for contributions to student life, and two-time member of the first-place team at the BCIT Student Innovation Challenge. Through these roles, Ethan focused on making the most of each opportunity at BCIT, inside and outside the classroom, and bringing others along with him every step of the way.

Savannah Hamilton (Ceremony 3 – June 24 at 10:00 am)

Savannah is graduating with distinction from the Strategic Human Resources Management diploma program. During her time at BCIT, she was actively involved as an HR Student Representative, Indigenous Councillor with the BCIT Student Association, and JDC West HR delegate. Through these experiences, she developed a deep appreciation for the impact that strong relationships, community, and leadership can have on both personal and professional growth. Savannah is excited to begin her career in Human Resources and hopes to help create workplaces where people feel valued, supported, and connected.

Shervin Laghaie (Ceremony 4 – June 24 at 2:30 pm)

Shervin is a graduating from the Occupational Health and Safety diploma program. A dedicated advocate for workplace wellbeing, Shervin values environments that prioritize growth, acceptance, and honesty. During his academic tenure, he served as the Vice President External and Vice President of Finance and Administration for the BCIT Student Association and previously served as the set representative for his cohort. Shervin’s professional foundation is built on over a decade of operational experience in the telecommunications sector. He is eager to begin his career this summer as a Health, Safety, and Environment professional.

Simone Chiang (Ceremony 5 – June 25 at 10:00 am)

Simone is graduating from the Master of Engineering in Smart Grid Systems and Technologies program. Originally from Taiwan, she arrived in Canada in 2023 and quickly became a dedicated leader in the BCIT community. As Chair of the IEEE BCIT Student Branch and Co-Chair of Pride BCIT, she has organized numerous events that foster inclusion, professional development, and student engagement. Simone is a recipient of the BCIT Student Association Distinguished International Student Award and the BCIT Alumni Association Outstanding Student Leadership Award. She is passionate about entrepreneurship and hopes to launch her own business in the future.

Abigail Calivoso (Ceremony 6 – June 25 at 2:30 pm)

Abigail (Abi) is graduating from the Aviation Management and Operations diploma program with honours. She has maintained a 4.0 GPA while serving as a class representative and peer tutor. She has been recognized through multiple scholarships and awards, including the YVR Student Achievement Scholarship and the William Templeton Aviation Management Scholarship. Known for her leadership and supportive nature, Abi chose to relocate to Calgary, Alberta to pursue a career in Airport Operations, continue building a meaningful future in aviation, travel the world and experience the beauty of different cultures.

Caitey Gilchrist (Ceremony 7 – June 26 at 10:00 am)

Caitey is an insect-loving, plant-collecting graduate of the Bachelor of Science, Ecological Restoration program. She previously graduated with distinction from two other programs at BCIT, including Forest and Natural Areas Management (2023) and Graphic Communications Technology (2011). Her hobbies include contributing to the BC Bee Atlas, identifying plants on iNaturalist, and stylishly flying over her handlebars while mountain biking. Caitey’s professional interests include urban forestry, insect conservation, and ecological restoration.