A Year in Focus: Victoria University’s Top Photos of 2024
By Dan Blackwell
As the year draws to a close, we reflect on some of Victoria University’s most unforgettable moments captured through the lens. From innovative courses to significant academic milestones and heartfelt tributes to our beloved community members, these images tell the story of a year filled with growth and creativity. Here are some of the visual highlights that made 2024 a year to remember for Vic students, alumni, faculty, staff and librarians alike.
January
Photo by Minh Truong
Dr. Rhonda McEwen, president of Victoria University, stands next to her self-portrait, which she created by transforming old BlackBerry phones into a cyborg image. This artwork reflects her belief in the powerful intersection of art and technology, a theme central to her research and leadership at the Emerging Technology and Arts Lab at Vic U.
February
Photo by Minh Truong
Professor Emanuel Istrate’s "Holography for 3D Visualization" course captivated students with its unique mix of physics and art. Students worked with high-powered neon green lasers to craft intricate holograms, offering a one-of-a-kind learning experience.
April
Photo by Minh Truong
On April 8, 2024, the Victoria community gathered outside to witness a rare and breathtaking event—a total solar eclipse. Dozens of students, staff, librarians and faculty gathered on the Vic Quad for a once-in-a-lifetime experience that united the community in a shared appreciation for the cosmos.
June
Photo by Minh Truong
In celebration of Pride Month, Victoria University proudly raised the Progress Pride flag, symbolizing its commitment to inclusivity, diversity and the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
June
Photo by Minh Truong
Just in time for convocation photo ops, the iconic west entrance staircase of Old Vic received a stunning upgrade. With decals showcasing the spines of books from the Vic One program, this new addition was designed to honour the diverse academic streams that define Victoria College.
June
Photo by Minh Truong
The Class of 2024 celebrated their hard-earned achievements at the annual Victoria University graduation ceremony. Surrounded by family, friends, faculty and staff, graduates marked the end of one journey and the beginning of another.
August
Source photo by Peter Bregg for HELLO! Canada
Canada Post honoured one of Vic’s most distinguished alumni and former chancellor, filmmaker Norman Jewison, with a commemorative stamp. The celebration, held at the Canadian Film Centre, brought together industry giants such as Rick Mercer and David Cronenberg, who paid tribute to Jewison’s legacy. This stamp serves as a fitting tribute to the director’s lasting impact on Canadian cinema and his cherished connection to Victoria College.
September
Photo by Will Dang
Orientation Week 2024 at Victoria University was filled with energy and excitement as new students were welcomed to the campus. With a series of fun activities, informative sessions and opportunities to connect, this year's orientation helped first-year students settle into university life and build lasting friendships.
September
Photo by Will Dang
Alumni notes, given to incoming Victoria College students at the start of the fall term, continued to connect generations through heartfelt messages of encouragement and advice.
November
Photo by Will Dang
2024 was a historic year as Victoria College proudly celebrated its first dual Rhodes Scholars: Noah Rudder and Amy Mann. Selected from a highly competitive pool, these two exceptional students are set to further their academic journeys at the University of Oxford, a testament to Vic’s commitment to fostering leaders across disciplines, from the humanities to STEM.