Valedictory Address

Nazila Ahmadi is a force, bringing positive energy to all those around her. Becoming a dentist has been a long-held dream of hers, and as Vice President of the UNB Pre-Dental Club, she was involved in organizing events, panels and workshops to create space for mentorship, guidance and shared experiences.

Ahmadi’s strong leadership skills enable her to “make change where it’s needed the most.” She not only volunteers within the local community, but advocates on behalf of others. She is heavily involved with the S.P.R.I.N.G. program, which connects UNB students and children of all abilities for the love of sport and physical activities, and raises awareness of the importance of physical activity and social connection for children with disabilities.

One of her proudest accomplishments is serving as co-chair of the 2025 Girls STEM Up Conference, a student-led event that brought together over 300 attendees from five provinces across Canada. The conference created an empowering space where young women and gender-diverse individuals in STEM could feel seen, supported and celebrated. Through keynote addresses, breakout panels and storytelling, the event sparked critical conversations around equity, access and representation—with inclusivity and community woven into every moment.

Ahmadi’s academic achievements are also a point of pride. A Dean’s List student throughout her undergraduate degree, she was the recipient of several scholarships, including the New Brunswick Dental Society Scholarship, the Alumnae Undergraduate Scholarship and the Canada East Spine Research Scholarship Award, which she was awarded twice. She was also awarded the UNB STEP Bursary, which supported her work as a biodiversity research assistant in Croatia. Inspired by that experience, she later returned to develop two independent research projects focused on local conservation challenges.

Her dedication to the broader Fredericton community earned her the Community Impact Award in recognition of her ongoing commitment to volunteerism and outreach.

Nazila Ahmadi is graduating with a bachelor of science in biology, and will deliver her valedictory address in Fredericton on Wednesday, May 28 at 10 a.m.