Sonja Bata, O.C., Chairman of Batawa Development Corporation and the Founding Chairman of the Bata Shoe Museum, Addresses the Schools of Applied Sciences, Skills and Technology and Business and Management Studies
Belleville, Ontario, June 6, 2014 – At the 47th Annual Convocation Ceremony on the morning of Friday, June 6th, Loyalist College proudly presented 424 graduates in the School of Applied Sciences, Skills and Technology, and School of Business and Management Studies with advanced diplomas, diplomas, certificates, and graduate certificates. The Convocation Ceremony was the third of four, recognizing a total of 2,070 Loyalist graduates.
The convocation address was delivered by guest speaker Sonja Bata, O.C. Mrs. Bata is the Chairman of Batawa Development Corporation and the Founding Chairman of the Bata Shoe Museum. In 1946, she married Thomas J. Bata, the son of a well-known Czechoslovakian shoe manufacturer whose family enterprise was nationalized under the Communist occupation. From the beginning, Mrs. Bata shared her husband’s determination to rebuild the organization and took an active interest in what was to become a global footwear business. Her combined interest in design and shoes has led to an extensive collection at the Bata Shoe Museum, showcasing the evolution of footwear from many cultures and historic periods. Mrs. Bata believes strongly that in a democratic country, citizens should actively contribute their talents to community needs. This belief is reflected in her many philanthropic activities and active volunteerism. She has received multiple honours and awards, and is an Officer of the Order of Canada.
“Look at the future with confidence,” said Mrs. Bata during her Convocation address. “It is up to you to shape your life. Take initiative and be an entrepreneur. You as an individual can make changes by taking interest in global affairs and trying to add value to society. Your College education taught you how to learn and how to increase your knowledge. Education can never be taken away from you.”
In recognition of her lifelong passion for design excellence, her focus and advocacy as a community leader, and her vision and leadership in innovative projects including the Bata Shoe Museum and the work of the Batawa Development Corporation, she was presented with an Honorary Diploma, the College’s highest academic tribute.
Loyalist College prepares students for a rewarding career by combining rigorous academic standards with hands-on training from industry experts. Programs range from apprenticeships and certificates to diplomas and post-graduate studies. Loyalist offers more than 65 full-time programs and over 70 university transfer agreements around the world. Loyalist is committed to helping students find great jobs, as well as supporting and enhancing the economic and social development of all individuals in its communities.
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Media Contact: Kerry Lorimer, Director of Marketing and Communications,
Loyalist College, klorimer@loyalistc.on.ca, (613) 969-1913, ext. 2536