Land acknowledgement
McMaster University recognizes and acknowledges that convocation ceremonies take place on the traditional territories of the Haudenosaunee and Mississauga Nations, and within the lands protected by the Dish With One Spoon Wampum Agreement.
About the Thanksgiving Address
McMaster convocation ceremonies begin with the Thanksgiving Address, a tradition rooted in Haudenosaunee culture.
In the Mohawk language, this is known as Ohén Karihwatéhkwen (“the words that come before all else”), and in the Cayuga language as Ganǫ́hǫnyǫhk, or the Thanksgiving Address. These words offer acknowledgment and gratitude to one another and to the natural world, and are shared when people gather for important matters.
The Thanksgiving Address reminds us of our shared responsibility to care for one another and the world around us, while encouraging a spirit of respect, reflection and “good mindedness” as we celebrate together.
A message from the President of the McMaster Alumni Association
 | Dear Graduates, On behalf of the entire McMaster alumni family, I’m thrilled to congratulate you on achieving this tremendous milestone. Earning your degree is an accomplishment that opens doors and brings you into a lifelong community of over 237,000 McMaster alumni worldwide. As you cross this threshold, remember that you are automatically part of the McMaster Alumni Association, a network dedicated to supporting and growing with you throughout your life. McMaster alumni are a force – contributing as leaders, innovators, and advocates who enrich not only our alma mater but the world. We hope you take pride in joining this remarkable network. Our Alumni Association supports you with online and in-person resources tailored to help you stay connected, learn, and expand your network. From career mentorship to alumni events, the opportunities are here to explore at alumni.mcmaster.ca. Stay connected with us by keeping your contact information current so we can continue sharing updates and opportunities that reflect your achievements and interests. Whether this is your first or another milestone degree from McMaster, we’re proud to welcome you to the McMaster Class of 2025! Congratulations again, and we can’t wait to see where your journey beyond McMaster leads. Warm regards, Maurice N. Leacock President, McMaster Alumni Association Board of Directors |