Significance

CIF-IFC Silver Rings are given out to welcome new forestry professionals. The ring is a symbol associated with the completion of a CIF-IFC recognized forestry program. It is a clear sign that unites graduates in forestry at the national level, a bond that goes beyond differences in responsibilities, employment, province of residence and language.

The Silver Ring is usually worn on the little finger of the left or right hand (depending on whether the person is right-handed or left-handed). The engraving of the maple leaf that seems to grow towards the tip of the finger symbolizes the growth of professional responsibilities.

History

The very first silver ring ceremony took place in 1953 at the University of British Columbia (UBC), organized by forestry and forestry engineering graduates. This practice became a tradition at UBC and was adopted by 3 other forestry schools in 1961 (University of New Brunswick, Université Laval, and University of Toronto). The CIF-IFC was asked to assume responsibility for the program and it became a centennial project in 1967. Since then, all graduates with a recognized bachelor’s degree have received a silver ring. In 2002, the Institute was proud to welcome graduating students from technical forestry schools.