On May 11, 2024, the University of Fredericton (UFred) will celebrate the achievements of the 2023 graduates from the Master of Business Administration (MBA), Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA), and Associate Degree in Occupational Health and Safety programs.

As a part of this celebration of achievements, UFred is pleased to announce the selection of the Valedictorian for the convocation ceremony: Amy Mottershead.

The choice to pursue an EMBA came from Amy's long-time goal of obtaining a graduate-level degree and her desire to show her kids that “if there is a will, there is a way.” Amy began her search for a fitting program in the summer of 2020 during the global pandemic. The pandemic served as a reminder that “time passes no matter what is happening in the world,” and as a family, the decision was made for Amy to begin her EMBA journey in November 2020.

For Amy, the highlight of her experience at UFred lies in the friendships she formed with classmates and professors. With shared backgrounds and at similar stages of life, it was easy to discuss their experiences and lean on each other for support and advice.

With her degree behind her, Amy continues to grow and take on new challenges whenever possible, including speaking at a Disrupt HR Conference in Calgary, a task that would have been outside of her comfort zone before the EMBA program. Moving forward, she has set personal goals to push the field of human resources beyond its typical bounds in innovative ways.

“I received the Certified Professional in Human Resources Impact Award this past year. It was a beautiful surprise to receive recognition in a field I adore and cherish. There are so many goals and initiatives I have for the future. I want to find ways to ignite conversations, inspire innovations and pave the way for a future where HR not only navigates change but pioneers it.”

In pursuing higher education, the path to success often extends far beyond the classroom. Amy reflects on the vital role played by her support systems while reminding current and future students of the power of community, the importance of defining success on your terms, and the necessity of embracing vulnerability along the way.

“Completing the master’s program at UFred was a teamwork event. My network of family, friends, classmates, professors, and work peers made it possible. Their support, love, and confidence in my ability to succeed motivated me to keep going and push forward. While deep in the program, it can be hard to ask for help or to avoid a disappointment spiral. Create your own definition of success, open the door to vulnerability and have grace with yourself—you are not alone in the journey.”