CA Graduation 2007

I had the privilege of attending May's CA induction ceremony Saturday morning at the Winspear Centre.

It was quite the well-oiled machine - organized, seamless, and had the perfect balance of achievement recognition, caveat of professional responsibility, and personal anecdotes. Each of the completed UFE writers were formally presented by a CA mentor, who had the opportunity to humanize the graduate beyond the name on the page. Looking at the big picture, and working with the many occupational groups that I do, I sometimes forget that professions are made up of distinct individuals. The ceremony reminded me of that. From unrelated tales of unusual cell phone ring tones to embarrassing and borderline inappropriate stories of wild partying, Monday morning hangovers, and penchants for senior citizens - it was a nice touch for each graduate to have an extended moment in the spotlight (and for the record, May got off pretty easy :).

Other things I learned today:

• Seemingly 90% of CAs work for Price Waterhouse Coopers, who often get sent to the Northwest Territories for audits.
• Intra-profession incest extends beyond the hallowed walls of Education: many of the grads were introduced by family members who also happened to be CAs.
• The U of A School of Business has a charmingly hilarious professor in Dr. Sandy Hilton. He opened with a rather clichéd speech, but quickly redeemed himself throughout the ceremony (his presentation of the "most eligible bachelor" was priceless).
• The ceremony is probably the most fertile recruiting ground for desperate firms - not only were accomplishments and personality traits on display, but it wouldn't be difficult to track down a desired grad.

It was an interesting experience. Thanks May for inviting me, and congrats again! We will all be approaching you for our tax-related needs!