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“Worldview events such as politics, economics, and social movements can result in distinct generational identities with associated values, beliefs, and behaviours. Intergenerational research can inform management theory and organizational practices.”
Dr. Heidi Weigand
Heidi Weigand
Assistant Professor
Rowe School of Business
Read Dr. Weigand’s full article here
Republished from Dal News / News & Events / June 2023
Alison Auld – June 12, 2023
Conor Scott received his Master of Public Administration degree from Dal on June 2. (Provided photo)
Scott decided at the last minute to wear his Class A firefighter’s uniform during his ceremony earlier this month, capping off an extraordinary week that saw him at the centre of one of Nova Scotia’s most devastating wildfires, in the middle of a frightening rescue to save a man’s life and on the receiving end of a surprise call from the prime minister.
“I was kind of on the fence about wearing it, but I talked to my chief and he said I absolutely should! I’m so glad I did,” says Scott, who did his degree on a part-time basis over five years while working as a firefighter.
“I am immensely proud of what I do — I love my job and to be able to represent that for this degree that I poured my heart into was really special. But it was a week, that’s for sure!”
That week started out routinely enough, with Scott and his captain at their station in Halifax on May 28 before they were called out to Tantallon to do look-out duties with their aerial truck. Soon after his shift began, an emergency call came in indicating that a wildfire was spreading in the area and that an elderly man would not leave his nearby home as flames closed in.
Without hesitating, the pair jumped in a truck and headed toward the home with only basic personal protective gear and no oxygen equipment. Scott was trying to identify the house by using Google maps and trying to read the civic signs, which were obscured by thick black smoke.
“As we got halfway down the street, everything went black — you couldn’t see five feet in front of you, but you could see embers and flames crossing the road. It felt like we were driving through a wall of fire,” says the 38-year-old Dartmouth native.
His captain, Kevin Corkum, stopped at a home and Scott saw that it was the right civic number. He bolted from the truck, ran to the front door and kicked it down when he realized it was locked. Inside he found the man sitting in his living room, unaware of what was going on as flames closed in around his house.
The pair were able to help the man out of the house and into their truck before heading back onto the road now enveloped in thick plumes of smoke.
“We drove through the wall of smoke again and when we came out the other side, I had this moment where I realized the family was going to get their grandfather back, so that was really nice,” he says. “As soon as we handed him off to the medics, we went right back down the road to try to help some other families.”
Three days later and the day before Scott’s convocation, he was called to yet another blaze. A fire had broken out at the historic Waegwoltic club in south-end Halifax and several crews — already stretched by wildfires throughout the province — were working to extinguish the flames that poured out of the stately white building.
For that service, Scott received a standing ovation at his convocation following a mention by Dr. Kim Brooks, Dal’s acting provost and vice-president academic.
“The people who pursue graduate work at the Faculty of Management are extraordinary — many contribute to communities and workplaces while pursuing graduate degrees.,” says Dr. Brooks.
“We wanted to acknowledge Conor Scott because he’s a graduate student who was responding to the dire need in our community for firefighters and he made the time to attend convocation to celebrate his academic success with us.”
The gesture was not lost on Scott.
“I was not expecting that and felt very sheepish, but that recognition made me really happy I wore my uniform,” he said, adding that his parents and partner were there to take it all in.
Then came an unexpected call earlier this week.
“I actually got a call from the prime minister yesterday,” says Scott. “He called my captain and I to congratulate us and thank us for what we did, and I had a lovely short little conversation with him. He was very gracious and thankful for what we do.”
Scott, who is in his 10th year of firefighting, says he plans on continuing with his work and will spend the next little while preparing to become a first-time father at the end of July.
Republished from Faculty of Management > News & Events > News > May 2023
Kaitlyn Greer (MIM’23) is a big believer in being open to where life takes you, because one experience may be all it takes to change your plans for the better.
It’s happened to her more than once.
The first time was while she was taking a history course as part of her BA. “I was in Barkerville, which is a goldrush town in interior BC. I was doing research on these historical events…but I fell in love with archives and records management. I never really considered information management as a career path until then. I was planning on being a history teacher.”
Pursuing her new passion, she enrolled in the Master of Information, with specialization in archives, records management and library science at the University of Toronto in 2011. Kaitlyn then worked for a short time as an archivist, primarily in church archives, and processing records for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. It was important work, but life was calling her back home to BC.
Fast forward to 2019 and Kaitlyn was well established as a policy coordinator at Northern Health. She had also added a certificate in health information management to her master’s degree. But as a dedicated life-long learner, she decided it was time for more professional development. That led her to Dalhousie, and another unexpected spin.
“I stumbled across [Dalhousie’s Master of Information Management program] and thought ‘That’s exactly what I’m looking for!’ The curriculum was perfectly aligned with my work and my professional interests because it focused on information and privacy.”
She wasn’t planning on getting a second master’s degree, she was initially interested in only the one course but “after I finished the first course, I started looking at the next one — not committing to doing the whole program, just saying ‘OK, what else is being offered?’ Then by the time I finished that second course I knew I was going to see it through.”
Kaitlyn was hooked by how practical and applicable the program was. “It was so different from the one I did 10 years ago because it moved theory into practice. The course load is manageable [Kaitlyn had twins while taking the program!] and they encourage you to explore projects or assignments that are relevant to you and your work. I was able to directly apply every course I took to what I was doing.”
Connections are often just as important as the curriculum content and Kaitlyn points to two who were invaluable for her.
“Dr. Alison Brown’s guidance was exactly what I needed for my capstone project. I conducted an evaluative study for Northern Health where I looked at supporting the access and retrieval of policies for my organization. I put all of the skills from that into practice every day now.
“I also had user experience, and records management with Dr. Jamila Ghaddar. Her perspective and approach really pushed the boundaries on our discipline; it was a privilege to learn from her as well.”
Kaitlyn would encourage anyone considering the program to just start it and see where it takes them. “You don’t have to have a plan beforehand. I didn’t. What I love about the program is that you can do three courses and come out with a graduate certificate, or you can do six and have a degree. Or just do one because the topic interests you. I recommend it to anyone who wants to deepen their learning around information and information management.”
Republished from News & Stories / Alumni Spotlight / Volunteer Spotlight – June 8, 2023
Posted: June 8, 2023
Yvonne Thevenot (MBA’99)
Yvonne Thevenot (MBA’99) is the essence of a dedicated volunteer, with a profound commitment to making a difference. Whether it involves orchestrating reunions, contributing valuable insights on advisory boards, or mentoring others, she consistently goes above and beyond. Despite being a highly sought-after and busy change management expert based in Toronto, she remains unwavering in her commitment to giving back to the Dalhousie community.
It all began with my involvement in reviewing the beta version of the capstone course for the Master of Business Administration (Financial Services) program. Since then, I have actively participated in various events, including organizing an MBA reunion and crafting fundraising letters. Inspired by the impact I also became a Dalhousie donor.
Over time, my dedication to volunteerism led me to assume key roles within the MBA community, serving as a member of the MBA Advisory Board, the Dalhousie Insight Circle as well as volunteering as a mentor for several years. Furthermore, I had the opportunity to deliver an ad hoc presentation on change management to the Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology. All these unique experiences have unfolded while being based out of Toronto.
The ability to “pay it forward.” By sharing the knowledge and insights I gained, I am able support and guide future students, ensuring they have a fulfilling and enriching experience. I enjoy building on the great experiences I had during my own time at Dalhousie.
You can start small, and you can volunteer from anywhere. If you start to feel overwhelmed or discover that it doesn’t align perfectly with your interests, then you can choose another way to volunteer. There is a way to get involved at the scale and level that works best for you!
The flexibility, their expression of value, their engagement model… I always feel wanted, needed, valued!
Get involved: learn more about volunteer opportunities for alumni
I loved that the remote MBA program still offered opportunities to engage on site. During the summer capstone intensive session, I got to be in Halifax, spending time with my colleagues on campus. Despite being mid-career and a parent of two – it made me feel young again!
Republished from Faculty of Management > News & Events > News> May 2023
Laura Lee Langley has always been interested in people: in understanding what matters to them, what motivates them, and how they are affected by the world around them.
As a journalist in the 1980s, working first in a radio newsroom and then at CTV, Global, and the former MITV, she put people at the centre of her stories. “I loved doing stories about the underdog or about interesting people,” says Laura Lee. One of her proudest accomplishments was a series she prepared on the long-term impact of child abuse on victims and the implications it had on population health.
But as much as she loved journalism, working in an environment that was often about “looking for the worst in people” was taking a toll on her, especially when she was raising two young children. “I wanted to transition to something that gave me a little more joy,” she says.
She found that joy in the public service. According to Laura Lee, “The public relations field was moving away from being just about developing key messages and marketing to more strategic work. I was drawn to that. And my skills as a journalist easily transferred to PR.”
In 1999, after only two years at the Department of Transportation and Public Works, she was approached by her deputy minister about taking the Master of Public Administration (MPA) program in the Faculty of Management at Dalhousie.
“People talk about government as a system, but it’s many systems and they intersect at all levels. The program offered the perfect opportunity for me to gain insight into how those systems work together, how to support people where they are, what it looks like to develop good public policy.”
The program brought Laura Lee back full circle to her interest in people. “I believe we need to have citizens at the centre of every conversation around public policy,” she says. “Putting the citizen at the centre — rather than the bureaucrats and the politicians — that’s a shift. And seeing the need for that shift is something I came to understand through the program.”
Today Laura Lee holds a list of impressive titles including Deputy Minister of the Office of Citizen-Centered Approaches, Deputy Minister of the Office of the Premier, and CEO of Communications Nova Scotia. She says she still relies on her program’s professors and fellow students for support, adding “I can call any one of those who taught me or whom I learned with for advice or to pick their brains. We have innovative conversations that often lead to new pathways forward.
“Dalhousie is a leader across Canada in the realm of public administration,” she continues, saying she would recommend the MPA to anyone interested in having a career in the public service. It’s a career she still sees as rich and rewarding after more than 25 years. “We are making decisions and giving advice that influences the lives of the people who live next door to us in our communities. When you think of it in that context, it’s not just a job, it is a rare privilege.”
“My MBA journey not only provided me with profound insights into leadership, finance, and business strategy, but it also became a transformational voyage of self-discovery.”
-Kristie Forbes, MBA, Leadership (Class of 2023)-
Kristie Forbes, MBA (Leadership) – Class of 2023
After five years of relentless dedication and navigating life’s challenges, Kristie Forbes proudly reached the pinnacle of her academic journey. Graduating with an MBA from Dalhousie University, Kristie reflects on the transformative lessons learned, the unwavering support received, and the profound personal growth experienced along the way.
Now, as Kristie embarks on the next chapter, she is filled with gratitude for the village of family, friends, and colleagues who made this achievement possible. The future holds new adventures and renewed priorities as she prioritizes the things that truly fill her cup.
Kristie Forbes
Last Friday, I finally reached the peak of the academic mountain I had been working hard to climb for the last five years and graduated with my Master of Business Administration from Dalhousie University and I am filled with an overwhelming sense of accomplishment.
My journey began in late 2017 when I was seeking a new challenge, an opportunity to push my limits and collaborate with brilliant minds across diverse industries. Pursuing an MBA was not solely driven by career advancement; it was a personal commitment to lifelong learning—a value I hold dear.
Little did I know that life had a different plan in store for me. Over the years that followed, I encountered new challenges that tested my resilience and determination. I relocated back to Halifax, welcomed an amazing and spirited baby girl into my life, navigated multiple job changes, and weathered the storm of a pandemic that turned our world upside down. Amidst it all, my family and I also built a house, mourned the loss of a dear family member, and faced an unexpected fertility struggle for two exhausting years. And just a few weeks ago, I was blessed with the arrival of a beautiful baby boy.
Throughout this whirlwind, I juggled my commitments, often feeling the weight of sacrifice. I missed out on events, precious moments with loved ones, and failed to prioritize self-care. I learned firsthand the limitations of a short-sighted strategy that neglects filling our own cups. However, I embarked on this mission with unwavering (ok, maybe a few wavers in there!) determination and now I can proudly say that five years later, I did it. I DID IT!
My MBA journey not only provided me with profound insights into leadership, finance, and business strategy, but it also became a transformational voyage of self-discovery. I learned volumes about my own capabilities, both as a student and as a leader. I discovered the importance of a strong support network and the power of teamwork. I recognized the significance of seeking help when needed. Through it all, I emerged as a more resilient human being. And for that, I will forever remain grateful.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Dalhousie University, my family, who supported me throughout this journey, my friends, who never ceased to check in, and my exceptional classmates, who served as both mentors and partners in my educational experience.
So, what lies ahead in this next chapter of my life? For the next year, I am shifting gears to prioritize caring for the smallest yet most important people in my life, reconnecting with friends, and reprioritizing the things that truly fill my cup.
Thank you to everyone; my amazing family, friends, colleagues at NATIONAL Public Relations and so many others who supported me along the way. They say it takes a village to raise a child but I know now it takes a village to earn an MBA, and I am so grateful to all of the people in my village.
“I truly believe that courses run smoothly with the help of a teaching team in which professors, teaching assistants, and markers communicate their ideas clearly and collaborate on course components throughout the term. This approach builds both a solid foundation for coursework and a strong support system for students. I appreciate those who bring different experiences and/or perspectives to a course. It is very rewarding to see students develop their skillsets and apply what they have learned, not only in assignments and tests, but most importantly in course discussions.”
– Sandi Stewart, Master of Arts, Folklore Studies-
Sandi Stewart, Master of Arts, Folklore Studies
Read Sandi’s full article here
Republished from August 3, 2021 CEGE Connection Blog post.
Jason Swinamer, Knowledge Management Consultant, Master Information Management (MIM) Candidate
Jason Swinamer, Knowledge Management Consultant, Master Information Management (MIM) Candidate
“I never expected that completing an assignment for my MIM graduate program would have such an impact on my life.” Jason Swinamer, Master Information Management (MIM) Candidate
Michelle Hunter: Jason Swinamer’s paper won the Student Excellence Advancing Evaluation Knowledge (SEEK), a national award by the Canadian Evaluation Society Education Fund (part of the Canadian Evaluation Society). He is the first Dalhousie Student to win this competition. Congratulations Jason!”
CEGE Connection reached out to Jason in a virtual interview for his reflections on receiving the SEEK Award
Jason Swinamer
When I was choosing a paper topic for Dr. Kaireen Chaytor’s Program Evaluation course, as part of the Master of Information Management program, I wanted it to be a topic in which I could relate to and believe in. After much deliberation, I chose the theme, Inclusion and Diversity in Evaluation Design.
I felt that I could bring my passion to the research and that my life experiences would enhance the scope of the paper. Dr. Kaireen Chaytor, was incredibly supportive. She introduced me to thought leaders Nancy Carter and Steve Montague, who are both regarded as experts in the Canadian Program Evaluation community. She encouraged me to explore and consider the work of Robert Stake, whose work I respect and consider to be an early example of how the field of evaluation is improved thorough inclusion.
Overall, my experience was wonderful and far more than I expected. I look forward to continuing to connect with Kaireen, Nancy, and the Canadian Program Evaluation community.
Jason Swinamer
Jason’s paper is interesting, thought-provoking, and well researched. He concludes with a Call-to-Action: “Investing in evaluators with this lens and the know-how for supporting organizations/program decision makers in navigating the transformative changes they are facing will benefit organizations in meaningful inclusion of diverse voices so that mutual benefits of inclusion for all stakeholders are realized. In other words, as opposed to checkbox inclusion, there is meaningful inclusion that results in better organizations, better programs and better outcomes for participants.
Dr. Kaireen Chaytor: “I really like one of his points in his call for action which states: ‘The field of evaluation is well poised to lead organizations in making inclusion more than a checkbox through existing and widely accepted and practiced methods of evaluation design and implementation.’ He deserves this win.”
“The Winter 2021 semester was my first as a Graduate Teaching Assistant in the MBA (FSL) program, and what an interesting semester it was. As a graduate of the program (Class of 2012), it was a great experience to be on the other side of the classroom as I supported both the students and Dr. McLarney as we navigated the International Business course.
It was so wonderful to see the students’ commitment to the program as they prioritized, not only their studies, but also their careers and work life, and families.”
-Irena Stropnik, B. Nursing (’97) MBA (FS) 2012-
Irena Stropnik, MBA(FS), Class of 2012
Read Irena’s full article here
“Considering the societal grand challenge of climate change, more than ever business schools need to move away from focusing on our theory-fetish and move towards applied action-oriented approaches with students that enable a deep engagement between the university, students, organizations, and community. We face many challenges where there is no readily available solution, and it is the inter-weave of the diversity of perspectives that can creatively generate ideas that can be considered and prototyped to bring positive impacts on society and the planet.”
-Kent Williams, DSocSci-
Kent A. Williams, DSocSci (pronouns: he/him)
Assistant Professor, Leadership Studies
Rowe School of Business
Dalhousie University
Read Dr. Williams’ full article here