Valedictory Address

Valedictorian Kianna Bear-Hetherington will address spring 2023 graduates in the faculties of forestry and environmental management, nursing and science on the Fredericton campus.

As the first Wolastoqey valedictorian and Indigenous valedictorian in a STEM-related field at UNB, Kianna is accustomed to breaking down barriers. She grew up with a special relationship with the land and all living things in it. Her deep spiritual connection to nature and a burning desire to help Indigenous communities thrive drove her to complete her bachelor of science in environmental and natural resources with a major in water resource management.

Inspiring and empowering young women to pursue their dreams is also a passion for Kianna. Her favourite memory from her time at UNB was her participation as a speaker for the 2023 Girls Stem-Up Conference where she spoke to high school students about her journey as an Indigenous woman navigating a STEM field.

She credits the support of her mentors, family and friends for empowering her to stand by her convictions to enhance diversity and inclusive practices within the university and beyond. Kianna believes that “With a community to stand behind you and a mentor to guide you, you can take the risk that might move mountains.”

Kianna's dedication to supporting future female and Indigenous students and opening the doors for others means her time at UNB will leave a legacy that creates future valedictorians in STEM that look like her.