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| SCHULICH ALUMNI NEWSLETTER
February 2025
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Message to Alumni from Dean Detlev Zwick
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| Dear Schulich Alumni,
February marks the beginning of Black History Month, an opportunity to honour the theme of “Black Legacy and Leadership: Celebrating Canadian History and Uplifting Future Generations.” Black History Month allows us to celebrate the remarkable contributions of Black Canadians while reflecting on how we, as a community, can foster a more diverse and inclusive future.
This year, the Schulich community will host several exciting events and initiatives under the banner of BEACON 2025 organized by the Black Graduate Business Network (BGBN), with assistance from the Schulich Black Students Association. These events include:
- an Afro-Caribbean Vendor Market taking place in the CIBC Marketplace that celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit of Black-owned businesses in our community
- the inaugural BEACON 2025 Conference, which champions Black excellence in leadership, innovation and entrepreneurship while giving Schulich students the tools and insights they need to excel in their careers
- a Speed Networking Reception, and
- a concluding Gala.
The conference will feature two panel sessions – “Black Leadership in Business: Lessons from Trailblazers” and “Breaking Barriers: Strategies for Career Success in Corporate Canada” – as well a keynote address from Wes Hall, celebrated for his extraordinary journey from humble beginnings in Jamaica to becoming one of Canada’s most influential business leaders and diversity advocates. His inspiring story, captured in his book No Bootstraps When You’re Barefoot, exemplifies the power of resilience and resolve in the face of adversity.
To learn more about the events taking place at BEACON 2025, visit here, and to register, click here.
In addition, in late February the Schulich Black Student Association (SBSA) is presenting the annual Afropolitan Conference and Case Competition. The student club’s flagship event takes place on Friday, February 28 at Deloitte’s head office in downtown Toronto. The event features a case competition, an interactive workshop, a panel session, and a keynote address from CPA Ontario Student Engagement Specialist Ronke Asalu. Registration is expected to open soon. To follow SBSA, click here.
Black History Month also offers us a moment to reflect on Schulich’s contributions toward creating an inclusive environment. The Schulich Business Excellence Academy, heading into its fifth year, continues to empower Black and underrepresented high school students by equipping them with business knowledge and leadership skills. Last year’s program was our best yet, with impressive outcomes in regard to applications and enrolment. We are actively seeking sponsors to support the Schulich Business Excellence Academy – if you know any companies that might be interested in supporting this life-changing program, please contact Yvonne Massop, Director of Strategic Initiatives & Engagement, at beacademy@schulich.yorku.ca.
I encourage everyone in the Schulich community to learn more about the events taking place at our school and across York University, and join me throughout the month of February in celebrating the extraordinary contributions of Black Canadians. Together, we can honour their legacy and continue to build an inclusive and vibrant future.
Warm regards,
Detlev Zwick
Dean & Tanna H. Schulich Chair in Digital Marketing Strategy
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NEW Explore our Revamped AAE Website
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|  We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our newly revamped website!
Visit us to explore a fresh new look, enhanced features, and easier access to all things Schulich Alumni.
Whether you're looking to connect with fellow alumni, stay up to date on events, or explore new opportunities, everything you need is just a click away.
Check it out today.
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Celebrating Leadership and Connection in Shanghai
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|  On January 18, 2025, Schulich alumni and community members in Shanghai gathered for a special event. Hosted by Dean Detlev Zwick and Christina Niederwanger, the evening celebrated leadership and community, marking the leadership handover of the China Alumni Chapter from Jonathan Cheung (MBA ’73) to Andrew Wu (MBA ’89), Group President at LVMH. The day featured networking opportunities, a celebratory lunch, and the Dean’s Leadership Dialogue, where Dean Zwick and Andrew Wu engaged in a dynamic discussion on leadership, vision, and the future of the alumni community. Read more.
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Alumni Excellence Spotlight:
Penny Wise (MBA '91)
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|  In this edition of Alumni Excellence, Penny Wise (MBA '91), VP of Global Public Policy & Communications at 3M, shares her insights on leadership and strategy, inspiring future leaders with her passion for mentoring. Read more.
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|  This Valentine’s Season, We Want to Hear from You!
What do you love most about the Schulich School of Business?
Share your Schulich story and help us spread the love.
Did you meet your significant other here? Or perhaps you have: a cherished memory, an inspiring professor, a life-changing experience, a favourite part of your career journey? We want to celebrate it with you!
Want to share your Schulich love? Tell us what YOU love about Schulich and join the movement today! 💚
💌 How to Participate 💌
📱 Record a short video sharing what you love about Schulich
📧 Email it to MarComm@Schulich.YorkU.ca OR post on IG, LinkedIn, Facebook, or X using #SchulichLove #ShareTheLove #WhySchulich OR submit here.
🎁 Bonus: All submissions will be entered into a draw to win a $100 VISA gift card! 💳🔥
Your story could be featured in our Valentine’s campaign and help inspire the next generation of Schulich students.
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Celebrating Women in Leadership
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|  We’re thrilled to announce the Accelerate Action Conference, hosted by Forté Fellows @ Schulich School of Business, in collaboration with Forté Foundation Ambassadors from Ontario business schools, happening March 7, 2025!
Join us as we celebrate International Women’s Day with inspiring talks from trailblazing women like:
Penny Favel, J.D., CEO of Hydro One Remote Communities Inc.
Racheal Awe (EMBA '17), MBA, VP & Chief of Staff, Canadian Tire Corporation
Simone Harrington (MBA '11), VP Institute for Better Health at Trillium Health Partners
Detail & RSVP.
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Schulich On The Road @ San Francisco
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|  Join us for two exclusive events as Dean Detlev Zwick, Pam Laycock, (MBA '89), President of the Schulich Global Alumni Network, and Karina Butzek-Morris, Director of Alumni Engagement, visit Silicon Valley and San Francisco!
Alumni Panel with Dean Zwick
Date: Wednesday, February 19, 2025
Click here to register.
Round Table Discussion with Dean Zwick
Date: Thursday, February 20, 2025
Click here to register.
**OFFER** Attend any of these events for a chance to win 2 tickets to Office Beacon’s luxury suite at a hosted event at the Intuit Dome. Don’t miss your chance to win and to hear the latest updates from Schulich, engage in insightful conversations, and connect with our alumni community in the Bay Area!
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Scholarship Spotlight: HP Canada Excellence Award
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|  Established last year, the award recognizes exceptional students enrolled in the MBA in Technology Leadership (Tech MBA) program, while advancing the values of diversity, equity and inclusion.
Read More.
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|  | Join us for #BEACON2025 with the Schulich Black Graduate Business Network! Celebrate #BlackExcellence and Afro-Caribbean culture through a month of empowering events.
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Featured Alumni Volunteers
Michelle Brener (MHIA '24), Neesha Mehta (MHIA '24), Merrin Marie Shaji (MHIA '24) and Connie Trang (MHIA '24) - MHIA Speed Networking Alumni Mentors
Deb Voorheis (KS11); Negah Ghiasi (KS12) - KS Women Celebration
Melissa Kelman (MBA ’98), Carlo De Girolamo (BBA '98), Ryan Szainwald (MBA/LLB ’04), Daniel Bordessa (MBA ’98), Danish Khan (MBA '13), Suraj K. Gupta (BBA '11), and Stuart Browne (MBA '09) - Panelist, Day on Bay
Andrew Wu (MBA '89) - Dean's Leadership Dialogue
Mandy Li (MBA '03), Ping Li (MBA '07), Evan Yang (MBA '08), Sharon Zhang (MBA '03), Wenjie Zhang (MBA '01), Jeff Zhou (MMAI '20) - Shanghai Chapter Ambassadors, Official Handover and Dean's Leader Dialogue, Shanghai
John Hughes (MBA '92), Sandra Nazeer (MBA '16), Beth Waldman (MBA '96) - Panel Member, INEO Winter 2025, Dean's Alumni Panel
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MMKG Alumni2Student Speed Networking Event
Monday, February 10, 2025
Details & RSVP
Schulich On The Road: San Francisco
Wednesday, February 19, 2025
Details & RSVP
Schulich On The Road: San Francisco (Silicon Valley)
Thursday, February 20, 2025
Details & RSVP
MMgt Alumni2Student Speed Networking Event
Thursday, March 6, 2025
Details & RSVP
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Alumni on the Move - January 2025
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|  This month, we're spotlighting the extraordinary achievements of our Global Alumni Network. Click here to watch and be inspired.
Have a new job, promotion, board appointment, certification, or award? Share your news with us at alumni@schulich.yorku.ca.
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|  | A big thank you to our amazing panelists for sharing their insights at last week’s Day on Bay event! A special shoutout to the Schulich Finance Association for hosting such a fantastic event. We are grateful to the following alumni for participating: Melissa Kelman (MBA ’98) – VP Institutional & Pension Accounting, CIBC Mellon, Carlo De Girolamo (BBA '98) – Managing Director, Capital Markets, Desjardin, Ryan Szainwald (MBA/LLB ’04) – Managing Partner, Brookfield Private Equity, Daniel Bordessa (MBA ’98) – Vice Chairman and Partner, Cyrus Capital Partners, Danish Khan (MBA '13) – Director & Head of Counterparty Credit Risk, Scotiabank, Suraj K. Gupta (BBA '11) – Co-Founder, President & CEO, Rogue Insight Capital Ltd., and Stuart Browne (MBA '09) – CEO, Pycap. Thank you for your time, expertise, and commitment to helping future leaders!
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MHIA Alumni2Student Speed Networking Event
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What an incredible evening at the inaugural Master of Health Industry Administration (MHIA) Alumni2Student Networking Event! A huge thank you to our alumni, Michelle Brener (MHIA '24), Neesha Mehta (MHIA '24), Merrin Marie Shaji (MHIA '24) and Connie Trang (MHIA '24) for sharing your insights, experiences, and guidance with the next generation of MHIA professionals. Your mentorship and support play a vital role in shaping students’ academic and career journeys.
Let’s continue to build meaningful connections and support each other in this ever-evolving field. For similar events, check out our events page here.
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Dean's Leadership Dialogue with Andrew Wu (MBA '89)
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Last month, during his visit to Shanghai, Dean Zwick hosted the Dean’s Leadership Dialogue with Andrew Wu (MBA ’89), celebrating the leadership handover for our China Alumni Chapter. As Group President of LVMH Greater China, Andrew shared his journey and insights into leadership in the luxury industry. Recognized globally, his focus on adaptability, cultural awareness, and strategic thinking resonated deeply with our alumni. Read more.
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Celebrating KS Women's Achievements and Leadership
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Thank you to all who joined us in 2024 to honor the remarkable achievements of KS Women as we celebrated resilience, innovation, and community! Special congratulations to Raksha Bhayan (EMBA '10) and Deb Voorheis (EMBA '13) on receiving the King Charles III Coronation Medal! Here’s to even greater accomplishments in 2025! Read More.
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GTA Alumni Ambassador Program Celebration
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A special thank you to our 2024 GTA Alumni Ambassadors, Zeeshan Syed (MBA '06), Elfie Li (MMKG '23), Abhishek Pandey (MBA '20), Susana Veliz (IBBA '16) and Keith Loo (MBA '12) for spearheading this program in 2024.
Welcome to our five outstanding Schulich alumni as the newest GTA Alumni Ambassadors:
- Amanda Bassin (BBA '04) – President, Persuit Group
- Akash Sidhu (BBA '17, MBA '21) – Executive Director, Generation No Limit
- Rajesh Kumar (MBA '24) – CEO, AIClues Inc.
- Mahima Kakkar (MBA '17) – Director of Product Marketing, OpenText
- Giuseppe Franzé (IMBA '17) – Senior Manager, Commercial Strategy - Snacks, Conagra Brands
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Global Alumni Network - Pakistan
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During his recent visit to Pakistan, Associate Dean Ashwin Joshi met with Schulich alumna Bushra Malik (EMBA '09), a trailblazer as one of Pakistan's first female Chartered Accountants. To connect with your Chapter Ambassadors in your area, visit our website here.
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What Do Reality TV, Social Media Influencers, and Donald Trump Have in Common?
In a new Scientific American op-ed, Schulich School of Business - York University Professor Maxim Voronov and co-authors Madeline Toubiana and Trish Ruebottom (both Schulich PhD alumni!) explore how Trump’s rise as a political figure mirrors the appeal of reality TV stars and influencers. Read More.
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|  Masters Certificate In Project Management
Consistently rated by executives as one of their most important learning experiences, this 5-day program gives experienced leaders powerful insights into the contemporary issues confronting organizations today. Join other accomplished mid-career and senior leaders as you evaluate your own leadership style and learn new strategies to foster stronger teamwork and accountability within a multi-generational workforce.
Next Session: 2/7/25. Learn More.
Contact Schulich ExecEd for your 10% discount.
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