After months of anticipation, the Kigali Convention and Exhibition Village played host to the Davis College 2023 graduation ceremony on the 15th of December.

268 students, poised to embark on their next chapter, gathered to celebrate this special moment witnessed by their families, loved ones, and the broader Davis College community. The event was not just a culmination of academic achievements; it was a testament to resilience, adaptability, and a forward-looking vision.

Lorna Ong’esa, our Vice Chancellor opened the ceremony, acknowledging the unique challenges and triumphs faced by the Class of 2023. “Your journey has been one of remarkable resilience and adaptability, equipping you well for the ever-changing job market," she noted, reflecting the evolving landscape that these graduates will navigate.

Guest of honor Anne Moretti shared personal reflections, connecting her experiences with the graduates' journeys. "Embrace change, adapt to new realities, and maintain focus on your goals," she advised, emphasizing the importance of resilience in personal and professional growth.

Each One. Teach One.

“There’s a lesson here for all of us- Never underestimate the power of ONE person, be they a man or a woman, an old person or a young adult…
I am here today as a follower of that vision of empowerment through education.
My philosophy of “each one, teach one” urges us to be grateful for those who have taught us, and to use those skills to help others rise, along the way.

Anne challenged the graduating class to embrace focus as a powerful tool.

“It [focus] will be invaluable as you embark on your careers as entrepreneurs, musicians, teachers, business makers, journalists, tech sector innovators and more. Remember, the journey you've made to bring you here today required more than just intelligence and talent; it required a mindset that embraces change, adapts to new realities, and always seeks a way forward.”

Co-founder Elizabeth Dearborn Hughes offered a poignant look at the institution's evolution. "This graduation marks not just a culmination but also a new beginning as we transition to a degree-granting university," she stated, highlighting a significant milestone in the college’s history.

Here to Stay

“Whether you are working in a big company or investing in your family and community, we want to continue supporting your growth as wise and compassionate leaders.”

The ceremony celebrated the diversity and talent of the graduates, who represented various programs of study. Their academic journey, punctuated by internships and real-world experiences, has been a blend of rigorous study and practical application, preparing them for the challenges ahead.

As the graduates prepare to join over 6,000 alumni, they carry with them not just a degree but a legacy of education that champions innovation, leadership, and societal impact. The ceremony was a reflection of Davis College’s commitment to shaping future leaders who are equipped to make a difference in East Africa and beyond.

The event was also a moment for the college to look forward. The transition to a degree-granting university signifies a new era for Davis College, promising to enhance its educational offerings and expand its impact.

As the ceremony concluded, the air was filled with a sense of accomplishment and optimism. The graduates, now alumni, stood ready to embark on their next journey, equipped with knowledge, skills, and a network of support.

The 2023 graduation ceremony at Davis College was more than a celebration of academic achievements; it was a milestone in the college's journey, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter in its commitment to educational excellence and societal impact.

In closing, here are a few more highlights from this special event!

You can explore the full photo archive of the event here.

Honoring the Class of 2023: Graduation Ceremony Highlights