Michelle Hunter exemplifies the best of what CFAME offers students – a compassionate voice on the other side of the phone. At a recent 20th Anniversary celebration of the MBA (FS) program, Michelle received a special and well-deserved recognition for her contribution and commitment to the welfare of students. Anyone who embarks on the MBA journey appreciates how important it is to reach someone who can help them achieve a home-work-study balance. Michelle has been there for hundreds of CFAME students over the years. On a personal note, Michelle and I have been friends for 17 years. I am excited that we will be working together on the CFAME Connection project. Her knowledge and experience will give depth and breadth to the discussion.
In a recent interview, Michelle reflected on CFAME’s extraordinary legacy.
I have been with the Centre for Advanced Management Education for 17 years and this year we are celebrating the 20th anniversary for the MBA (FS) program; it has been a wonderful experience. Although the centre has had a few name changes; new programs added and some retired, some programs have undergone major re-design, and the delivery model has evolved significantly; relativity speaking – the students in the MBA (FS), MPA (M) and MIM have remained constant.
Students enrolled in one of the CFAME programs have made a choice to achieve a personal goal of earning a Master’s degree and when they do achieve this goal it is a very special accomplishment. I recall in the early days of the programs, returning to studies was not even a consideration for most of our students. Putting their careers on hold to go back to school was not realistic or feasible. Therefore, when Dalhousie provided them with the opportunity to earn a master degree while continuing to work toward furthering their careers, it was a goal that was now achievable.
It is wonderful to connect with the students in the program and to continue the connection after they graduate. The first initial conversation is typically when someone inquiries about applying to the program or after they have been accepted. We have a conversation about program planning or resources Dalhousie has to offer. It is a great feeling to know that I can assist someone, even the in smallest of ways, to achieve their goals. The thing I most enjoy about talking with our students is the personal connection: learning about their families, their careers, and how they are applying what they are learning in the program and implementing this new knowledge in their personal and professional lives.
It is an honour to work with the students, they inspire me – they are committed, goal oriented and dedicated to lifelong learning.
Congratulations Michelle on your ongoing support with the program! I know you have been a fantastic resource to myself and many peers during their journey through the MBA (FS) process, keep up the great work!
Hi Gordon – I agree!! Michelle was a fantastic resource during my MBA journey. Whenever I had a question, she was there to assist. Whenever I was worried over marks, she was there with encouraging words!
Thanks Gordon, it has truly been a pleasure working with you and other who have completed the program – it’s the best part of my job! I am so glad that you are still connected with the program and hope you will continue to do so for many years to come.
All my best to you and your family for the holiday season.
Cheers
Michelle
Michelle – when you talked about the personal connection in your comments, it really hit home for me. As you start out on the MBA journey it’s a time of excitement but also a time of intense questioning. I found myself questioning whether I could really balance the priorities of a new family, a new job and my studies. I questioned how I was going to navigate my way through the program and if I really could do it.
Michelle, you were there at the beginning of my journey and your counsel helped me navigate the myriad of questions swirling around me. As the 3 years passed quickly, you never failed to stop and ask about my family, my life and how things were really going.
Thank you for your very real contribution to the program, to my life and to the lives of my classmates. You’re a valuable asset to Dalhousie and the academic community at large.
Sincerely,
Lloyd
Thank you, Lloyd for your comments – very much appreciated. I know many share your sentiments and have experienced the same support during their MBA journey.
Thank you Lloyd for your kind words, it is was true pleasure to have the opportunity to get to know you and your classmates – it’s the best part of my work with Dal; connecting with our students and continuing the connection after you graduate. I love to hear about how the program has impacted your personal and professional lives and any news you have to share. I believe the last time we spoke, your little one was starting to walk, i imagine he is running around now.
All the best to you and your family for the holiday season.
Cheers
Michelle