Graduates – Page 10

Ann C. Etter: Class of 2018 Welcomes A Second Generation

October 9, 2018 rbudd Leave a Comment

Ann Etter, Class of 2001 John-David Etter, Class of 2018

Ann C Etter, Class of 2001
John-David Etter, Class of 2018

Photo Credit: Centre for Executive and Graduate Education

October 2, 2018, the Dalhousie University MBA(FS) Class of 2018 celebrated the culmination of their academic journey in the graduation ceremonies held at the Rebecca Cohn Auditorium.

In the audience, Ann Etter watched as her son, John-David Etter crossed the stage to receive his well-earned degree. This was the same stage she crossed in 2001 when she was awarded the identical MBA(FS) degree. Seventeen years have passed between the two graduations, a confirmation that the pursuit of academic excellence continues and evolves within a world of dynamic change.

CEGE Connection reached out to Ann for her thoughts as she celebrates her son’s achievement and remembers her personal journey to acquire knowledge.

Ann C. Etter

September 28, 2018

The Old and the New

I’ve always been interested in learning new things, however, as I reflect on the topic of lifelong learning, it’s words that my Dad said to me in 1972 that have resonated with me for the past 46 years. As background, I was working with BMO in the summer of ’72 and found I enjoyed banking so much that I decided not to return to university to complete my undergrad degree. My Dad took me aside and shared some very important words of wisdom …he said, “I want you to remember that you are never too old to go back to school”. And there it is – 46 years ago – my foundation to lifelong learning!

Women in banking was a lot different a half century ago than it is today. Women were not actively promoted to management jobs in any bank nor were they highly educated. It didn’t take me long to realize that I would have to equip myself with more education if I was to compete for higher level jobs. So while working full time, I went back to school and obtained my undergrad degree. But I couldn’t stop there. I had a thirst for knowledge and continued through the years with bank courses, too many to count, and went on to obtain numerous designations which eventually brought me to the realization I wanted to obtain an MBA. Hence, enter Dalhousie University which had the foresight to introduce the MBA in Financial Services.

I applied, was accepted and started on the journey to obtain and expand my knowledge of the business environment. Dalhousie provided the opportunity to learn via distance as well as providing a supportive network, which is important, especially if one has a demanding job. The courses, tailored to the Financial Services industry, are challenging and thought-provoking. The profs are top notch and available if needed. The networking opportunities with other students was invaluable.

One of my objectives on this journey was to show my son by example that hard work and commitment to a goal pays off. JD, who was a teenager at the time, knew that obtaining an MBA was important to me. He was extremely supportive at home, allowing me the time I needed to study and complete assignments. JD learned the importance of lifelong learning and went on to set goals for himself to achieve educational success. I’m very proud of JD’s accomplishments. I know that with JD’s outgoing personality and commitment to doing the best job possible, he will be successful no matter where in life his path leads.

As for me, you may be seeing more of me around campus. Lifelong learning will always be a part of my life. As I get closer to retirement, I find myself thinking about what courses I’d like to take in my spare time. Dalhousie is doing a stellar job of keeping the MBA (FS) alumni informed of talks that we can attend. And there are a plethora of courses available.

It will be exciting to attend fall convocation ceremonies knowing that JD and I are the first mother-son duo to obtain the MBA Financial Services.

Dal200a

Denise Hinds & Patrick Law: Grand Champions, Deeper Learning

September 18, 2018 rbudd 2 Comments

Denise Hinds

The Centre for Executive and Graduate Education (CEGE) provides opportunities for deeper learning by delivering robust course content in ways that engage students to study, integrate and apply what they have learned. Deeper learning fosters competencies required to participate within our social milieu: critical thinking, collaborative and communication skills. CEGE’s commitment to their students was dramatically evidenced in the GLO-BUS Simulation introduced by Dr. Carolan McLarney in the 2018 winter semester of International Business.

GLO-BUS is an International Business Strategy Simulation. Participants run companies that compete for global market leadership in two product categories: (1) wearable video cameras that deliver stunning video quality and have powerful photo capture capabilities (comparable to those designed and marketed by global industry leader GoPro) and (2) sophisticated camera-equipped copter drones that incorporate a company designed and assembled action- capture camera and that are sold to commercial enterprises.

Patrick Law

Denise Hinds, Patrick Law and Golnaz Zilabi were members of “IRIS Cameras,” the class team that finished 1st place in the GLO-BUS simulation exercise conducted during IB Winter 2018. In late July, an invitation was given to “IRIS Cameras” to participate in the GLO-BUS Best-Strategy Invitational (BSI), an event to manage a GLO-BUS company in competition against companies from 10 to 11 other universities and business schools. The Invitational was to be conducted online from July 30 – August 18 and entailed a 10-round playing of GLO-BUS among participants from universities worldwide. Denise and Patrick accepted an invitation to represent Dalhousie University.

Dr. Carolan McLarney is delighted to announce that Denise and Patrick, under the company name ‘Jenuine Cameras’ won first place on August 10, 2018, becoming the 2018 GLO-BUS BSI “Grand Champions”.

CEGE Connection reached out to Denise and Patrick for their insights into the BSI Invitational:

Denise Hinds & Patrick Law:

“Successful people are always looking for opportunities to help others. Unsuccessful people are always asking, ‘What’s in it for me?’”

Brian Tracey

When we set out on the BSI journey, we agreed that we must believe that the product or service of our company would benefit others and be good for the world. We decided to name our company ‘Jenuine’ as a play on the word ‘Genuine’ and a way to represent our business beliefs. In addition, we were drawn to the meaning of “jen” which signifies “the cardinal Confucian virtue of benevolence to one’s fellowmen.”

“Begin with the end in mind.”

Stephen Covey

From the start, we worked with two principles to give us the edge over the other schools:

Long-term fundamentals beat short-term decisions every time: Other competitors will focus on short term gains because it feels good “in the moment” but does not guarantee long-term results. We used this knowledge to our advantage and directed our efforts on choosing sustainable strategies.
Measure what matters and ignore what doesn’t: Rather than revisiting past trends to determine whether our strategies were working out, we stayed focused on our competitive advantages. In the end, our company fundamentals were the most important benchmarks of our performance and success.

“In business, I look for economic castles protected by unbreachable moats.”

Warren Buffett

Speaking of competitive advantages, we wanted to set up a “moat”. We realized early on that our product had to be as different as possible in good ways. As Sir John Templeton once wrote, “If you want to have a better performance than the crowd, you must do things differently from the crowd.” We focused on developing a long term durable competitive advantage by selling/producing our products with larger margins than our competitors. To learn more on this topic, there is a great article on moats (durable competitive advantages): Measuring the Moat by Vishal Khandelwal.

“…investing isn’t about beating others at their game. It’s about controlling yourself at your own game.”

Benjamin Graham

We did several things to buy into the inherent margin of safety, from our high cumulative R&D approach; our sensitivity analysis activity; to the number of workstations added and robotic upgrade investments. Of course, forecasting and competitive assumptions played a significant role, as did marketing our product well. We agreed with Henry Ford, that “stopping advertising to save money is like stopping your watch to save time”.

The best way for us to strategize our next move, was to try to understand our competitors by preparing for every round. This in turn required us to review the competitive intelligence report, financial statistics, benchmarks pages to see if we were meeting or beating our targets (in order of importance). In the words of Warren Buffett, “risks come from not knowing what you’re doing.”

What do business students need to know?

“Integrity without knowledge is weak and useless, and knowledge without integrity is dangerous and dreadful.”

Samuel Johnson.

In everything we do, we must do it with integrity. As business students, we need to make long-term decisions for those long-term benefits. As students in the MBA (Leadership) stream, we chose to get involved in an extra-curricular activity to showcase our talents and education. We discovered that the GLO-BUS Best Strategy Invitational was not just about business strategies, ethics, marketing, competitor assumptions, financials, or player psychology. It was about a deeper, more profound recognition that we are involved within a global community that requires our highest participation and best efforts.

Dalhousie University and, in particular, the Centre for Executives and Graduate Education (CEGE) offers students the required lessons, the deeper learning to thrive within the competitive world of business. More importantly, CEGE creates an inclusive environment that fosters critical thinking about engaging within a world that offers many opportunities and possibilities.

JoAnne Akerboom: Parental Awareness and Interest in Social Media Use

September 6, 2018 rbudd Leave a Comment

“The goal of my case study was to provide information to Christ the Redeemer School Division that can assist in helping parents and children use social media in a way that allows them to benefit from the positive impacts of connectivity and mitigate the risks that may arise.”

JoAnne Akerboom (MIM 2018)

JoAnne Akerboom, MIM Class of 2018, was presented with the prestigious 2018 SIM Research Award, Master of Information, for her capstone project, Parental Awareness and Interest in Social Media Use: A Case Study in St. Anthony’s School.

Today’s technology offers an increasing array of innovative tools for communication. These advancements promise unimaginable possibilities and well as unforeseen risks. In a recent telephone interview with CEGE Connection, JoAnne shared insights from her research that speak to the need for parental awareness within a world barraged by social media. As Principal of St. Anthony’s School, Drumheller, Alberta, JoAnne’s research in this area of information management reflects her vision to provide leadership within an environment where high quality academic education is provided in a safe, caring, and Catholic setting. JoAnne has submitted a proposal to present her findings at the Alberta Teacher’s Conference, Spring 2019.

JoAnne Akerboom

The Premise:

Picture this: A thirteen-year-old girl walks into the change room after gym class and takes a picture of her classmate undressing. She sends the picture to her classmates as a joke through snapchat. One of her classmates who receives the picture takes a screenshot and brings it to the principal.

Who is responsible for teaching this young girl about the appropriate use of technology? Is it the school? The parents?

This is one of many examples of the negative impact of social media. The irresponsible use of technology is a concern in our school division (Christ the Redeemer) and for many of our parents. As a result, our school division is developing curriculum to help address both the positive and negative use of technology with a focus on developing healthy relationships. Great initiative with another major element added – the involvement of parents.

Children access social media through multiple electronic devices – cell phones, tablets, computers and games systems. They can access social media at home and at school. We need to work together with parents and share information and resources that can keep our children safe and responsible. More importantly we need to help them understand and value the importance of healthy relationships that will help them navigate this evolving world of new technology and use it in a safe and responsible way.

The goal of my case study was to provide information to Christ the Redeemer School Division that can assist in helping parents and children use social media in a way that allows them to benefit from the positive impacts of connectivity and mitigate the risks that may arise.

Social media is a prevalent force in today’s society offering users the ability to develop and maintain social spheres in interactive, multimedia rich online environments. With this opportunity comes the risk of online vulnerability in which individuals can experience detriments to their psychological, reputational, or physical wellbeing because of their online experience.

Inappropriate use of social media is a concern for school administrators, educators and parents. We want our students to be cared for and safe. Parents and schools provide children with the tools to access social media, but how aware and interested are parents in their child’s use of social media? Given that parents are our partners in their children’s education, it is valuable to explore what parents know about the impact of social media on their children.

Three Recommendations:

The recommendations that I presented were directed to Christ the Redeemer School Division but are applicable to other school districts. I look forward to presenting my findings to our parents at our parent council meetings this fall.

Recommendation #1: School Divisions should continue to develop and deliver curriculum to students on the responsible use of social media. School divisions could consider:

preparing a plan to communicate with parents on the development and implementation of social media curriculum and
partnering with community agencies such as law enforcement and health to create and deliver resources to both parents and students

Recommendation #2: Parents are encouraged to actively engage in ongoing conversations with their children on the use of social media; monitor their child’s use with the intent of supporting rather than penalizing their child and focusing on activities where there are more face-to-face interactions with their children.

Recommendation #3: The study demonstrates parents’ interest in more support and resources to assist them and their children in the responsible use of social media. Areas for further research include exploring the knowledge gaps in parents’ awareness of social media’s impacts and the potential for more supports for parents to better support their child’s use of social media and how the age of child may result in higher or lower levels of monitoring and conversation with parents

Acknowledgements

This MIM research project allowed me to explore and recognize our responsibilities to our emerging generation. My thanks to my supervisor Dr. Bertrum MacDonald, who inspired me to continue in the field of Information Management after the first course in the program. Thank you to the parents of St. Anthony’s School who were enthusiastic participants. My gratitude for the support of my colleagues and, in particular, Cora-Leah Schmitt, for her comments on the various stages of my paper. Finally, I want to thank my husband, Chris Curtis, and the rest of my family for endless support and patience.

JoAnne Akerboom, MIM Class of 2018, is the Principal. Anthony’s School, Alberta, Canada. “Making the World a Better Place To Be!” is the motto of St. Anthony’s School. As the principal of this school, her main responsibility is to provide leadership and support an environment where high quality academic education is provided in a safe, caring, and Catholic setting. JoAnne has graciously agreed to be a repeat contributor on CEGE Connection

James Christopher Desmoulin: Building Integrity & Trust

August 7, 2018 rbudd Leave a Comment

“It is important for me to apply and integrate the knowledge I acquire because I believe that business it not just about business. I find business is more and more about connecting with people and looking for ways in which to support efforts to achieve individual, as well as, collective goals. It is about building compassionate communities.”

James Christopher Desmoulin

ames Christopher Desmoulin

James Christopher Desmoulin is currently enrolled in the MBA(FS) program and is looking forward to graduating in the Class of 2019. In a recent virtual interview with CEGE Connection, James reflected on how his academic journey influenced his work with Indigenous Services Canada and his position as a Union President in the Public Services Alliance of Canada.

James Christopher Desmoulin:

I always wanted to complete an MBA. Finding the optimum time was critical because I wanted to focus my efforts on my studies. It is important for me to apply and integrate the knowledge I acquire because I believe that business it not just about business. I find business is more and more about connecting with people and looking for ways in which to support efforts to achieve individual, as well as, collective goals. It is about building compassionate communities.

In March 2018, I was invited to participate in a delegation to Guatemala arranged through the Public Services Alliance of Canada (PSAC). Our two-week mission was in association with Education in Action (EIA), an organization dedicated to improving the livelihoods of Mayan campesinos in Guatemala through initiatives based on social justice and fair trade. We worked with coffee producers through targeted field projects to facilitate the sales of fair trade organic coffee in Canada. We were guided by the EIA’s commitment to learn through cultural immersion and community outreach, in the spirit of partnership and respect for Mayan indigenous peoples.

Education in Action is dedicated to strengthening communities. This remarkable organization supports the Comite Campesino del Altiplano (CCDA) education programs, its fair-trade coffee “Café Justica”, teacher’s salaries, its medical centre in Quixaya, San Lucas Toliman, Solola which is situated within the Guatemalan highlands to the east of Lake Atitlan.

This assignment was a profound learning experience. I saw first-hand the daily challenges faced by the Mayan people, most of whom are farmers. Regrettably, the Government of Guatemala offers little assistance in the support of the indigenous Mayan. I had the opportunity to attend discussions where various Mayan community leaders spoke of the difficulties encountered with respect to land appropriation for mining. Mining interests, including Canadian mining companies, have encroached on the traditional lands used by Mayans for farming and supporting families and communities. Land appropriation has created human rights issues and court challenges on ownership. Who has the rights and title to the land, including mineral rights? The issues are complex and date back to colonial times when Guatemala was first settled by the Spanish. The Spanish desired the fertile lands of the Mayans and moved them into the highlands less ideal for agriculture. Now, valuable minerals are the attraction.

There is good news. The Mayan people are voicing their concerns to the government. They are speaking out about employment equality, social justice and land appropriation. I had the opportunity to meet with two senators of the Guatemalan government who are actively encouraging the Guatemalan government to address these land appropriation issues for the individual Mayan groups.

On my return to Canada, I used my Guatemala experience in a presentation for Professor Ray Klapstein’s Legal Course, MBA(FS) program. I discussed a legal case that is currently before the courts, involving a Canadian mining company and Mayan individuals who were injured and subject to abuse by security personal employed by a subsidiary of this Canadian mining company. The presentation was an opportunity to tell the story of the Mayan individuals and communities affected by mining. In so doing, I opened discussions with my MBA colleagues about complexities of operating within a different country and the ramifications and consequences of corporate decisions on indigenous communities. Professor Ray Klapstein reminded our class, “you need to get on the ground and find out what is going on and how it is impacting people which is a part of any good governance and risk management strategy of your organization”.

James Christopher Desmoulin, CIM, AICB, Senior Lands Officer at Government of Canada, received a Deputy Minister Award, the highest non-monetary award in the Public Service for his work as finance officer on the Ipperwash Negotiation Team. James’s focus is on developing long-term relationships built on integrity and trust. Travel gives him the opportunity to encounter new people and cultures and to learn new ways of being. James has graciously agreed to be a repeat contributor on CEGE Connection

Sara Kassim: Contributing to the Success of My Organization

June 12, 2018 rbudd Leave a Comment

“Dahousie’s MBA(FS) was a natural progression in my academic journey, given that I currently work within the financial services industry. I chose the MBA(FS) specifically for its rigorous and hands-on approach to experiential learning. Students acquire practical and relevant skills needed for this sector. Strengthening my quantitative skills, critical analysis and decision-making abilities were true motivators in choosing the Dalhousie MBA(FS).”

Sara Kassim, MPA, Senior Manager, RBC

The phrase, Life-Long Learning, has become a ubiquitous tagline that involves our need to explore new horizons and opportunities. Our curiosity to know what is around the next corner stirs our adventurous spirits.

Adventures, however, are not for the faint of heart, for there is ever the promise of risk, hard work and ambiguity. Applying for an MBA program takes courage and resolve, characteristics that will remain faithful companions on the road ahead.

Sara Kassim, MPA, Senior Manager, Home Equity Financing Acquisition at RBC, chose Dalhousie’s MBA(FS) program to complete a second master’s degree. In a recent virtual interview, Sara shared her vision of life-long learning and why she chose to enroll in this robust academic program.

Sara Kassim

Why did you decide to enroll in the MBA(FS) program?
I have always enjoyed academia (No…nobody is paying me to say that!) Enrolling in my first master’s program in Public Policy and Law kindled my passion and enthusiasm for learning. Graduate studies offered me fresh perspectives and the environment to push the envelope. No idea or theory was too crazy to consider, examine and test.

Dahousie’s MBA(FS) was a natural progression in my academic journey, given that I currently work within the financial services industry. I chose the MBA(FS) specifically for its rigorous and hands-on approach to experiential learning. Students acquire practical and relevant skills needed for this sector. Strengthening my quantitative skills, critical analysis and decision-making abilities were true motivators in choosing the Dalhousie MBA(FS). As I near the end of program, I am confident that the knowledge and experience gained over the past months, will permit me to contribute to the success of my organization.

How has your studies influenced your decision-making? Have you changed how you process information? Are you more strategic?
My studies have improved my strategic thinking capabilities, which facilitates optimum decision-making. Based on both my work experience and learnings from Dalhousie’s MBA(FS), I can quickly identify the risks and corresponding mitigating factors of decisions that need to be made. In this sense, I am more comfortable in taking calculated and prudent risks.

The MBA(FS) increased my capacity to work efficiently, develop and implement the necessary tactics, and most importantly, the aptitude to quickly move from analysis to action (instead of analysis paralysis). I would also say that I live a life of no regrets. My decisions today will be based on current information and discussions with all relevant stakeholders. If my decision changes tomorrow, I do not regret my decision yesterday, as it was based on the most up-to-date information/stakeholder opinions at that time.

How do you keep work-study-life balance?
I maintain focus on what matters; I view things in a macro and micro way, depending on the circumstances. This allows me to remain even-keeled and able to navigate through life in a measured way; my responses align to the level of urgency required.

I am fortunate to have an employer that encourages healthy work/life/balance. They support their employees both through verbal and through actions; they provide opportunities to put learnings to work in the organization to solve everyday business problems. Employees are encouraged to seek personal growth and in so doing, achieve return on investment through career advancement.

When studying, my strategy has been to spend one weeknight and one weekend evening studying and completing assignments. This way, I am not overwhelmed as the time for the intensive and exam approaches. I also like to catch up on my readings during timeslots that do not seem to impact my ‘free time.’ For instance, if I am taking the subway to and from work, I will bring my textbook to catch up on that week’s readings….so if I get 40 min of reading done on the subway, that’s 40 minutes less I am doing at night or on weekends!

Sara Kassim, MPA, Senior Manager, Home Equity Financing Acquisition at RBC, has 12 years of experience within the Royal Bank of Canada. Her interests are innovation in the financial services industry, public finance and accounting, Canadian constitutional & administrative law, ethics-privacy-access to information, equity-policy-law & planning, and public policy analysis. Sara has graciously agreed to be a repeat contributor on CFAME Connection

Michael Ford: On the Ride to Conquer Cancer

May 8, 2018 rbudd 1 Comment

“We all can make a Difference! “
Michael Ford

Mike, Chris & Scott

A few years ago, the idea came up to enter the Ride to Conquer Cancer with a few friends looking to make a difference and have some fun at the same time. We jumped at the chance to participate in this event.

Around the same time my employer decided to enter a team. This was our opportunity to join an emergent group dedicated to fighting cancer. We are now a team that has become 100 strong.

Each rider commits to raising a minimum of $2500. At first, this perceived obstacle was something I did not think I could do. My concerns were unfounded. I was overwhelmed and amazed by the generous response I received when I asked for financial support. People gave willingly, sharing their personal stories, a reminder to me that everyone, whether personally or through a family member or friend, has been touched by cancer.

June 2016, the first night of the ride, I was in a big tent with my friends, Scott and Kris, having an afternoon snack with thousands of people. We happened to sit beside a young university student. She shared that she worked at the Keg, among other part time jobs, while going to school in Toronto. In our conversation, she told us about her boyfriend who recently lost his battle with cancer. To honour him, she decided to try and raise the money and ride to conquer cancer. Her friends at work rallied to support her by raising small amounts at a time to reach the $2,500 goal. These friends located a bike, and with their encouragement to back her, she set out to make the 220KM+ journey solo.

How this young student supported her boyfriend through his difficult last months, and her resolve to give voice to his memory through the ride, is one of many stories of courage and determination that bring us together in our shared desire to raise funds for this worthy cause. Being involved in this event is inspirational. Much has been accomplished, giving hope of survival and a greater quality of life while fighting cancer. But, there is more work to be done.

Fast forward to 2018. Ride #3 is in June 2018. I have raised my $2500 goal, looking to do even better this year. My son Christopher recently posted a note about his dad on LinkedIn promoting me, then world’s most energetic person Rebecca Budd to ask me to write a note for the CFAME Connection…and here I am being inspired again.

Be The Ride

Photo Source: BE BOLD.BE COURAGEOUS…BE THE RIDE!

So, here is my ask to all who read this post. There are four rides across the country. I invite you to check the link Ride to Conquer Cancer.

Locations

Photo Source: FOUR LOCATIONS

Whatever your passion, take action! Just ask and you will be inspired. If action is sponsoring someone, then search out a friend or maybe people on your corporate team. Should you choose to ride, I can tell you the experience is breathtaking in so many respects – the people you meet, the stories we all share, because we all can make a difference.

Mike
May 2018

Michael Ford MBA(FS) 2010, Scotiabank Change Management Lead, Branch Transformation Implementation, is inspired by continuous learning, energized by great people, and making a positive difference in the lives of others. Michael has graciously agreed to be a repeat contributor on CFAME Connection.

Courtney Bayne: Records Manager at Dalhousie Libraries

May 1, 2018 rbudd Leave a Comment

Courtney Bayne MIM (2017

“When I first read the posting of the Records Manager at Dalhousie University, I felt that this was a role where I could make a difference. I feel lucky to have been chosen as the successful candidate as the Dalhousie Community has been very welcoming.”

Courtney Bayne MIM (2017)

Courtney Bayne, MIM (2017) has returned to campus to utilize her knowledge and experience of information management in her new role as Records Manager at Dalhousie Libraries. Reporting to the University Archivist, Courtney is responsible for the effective, ethical and sustainable management of the University’s information resources.

In a recent virtual interview with CFAME Connection, Courtney shared her thoughts on why she chose Dalhousie’s Master of Information Management program.

Courtney Bayne:

I have always been drawn to puzzles and organization. This led me to completing a diploma in Library and Information Technology from Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC). There, I was inspired to pursue a career in records and information management (RIM). One of my records management instructors encouraged me to become involved with the local ARMA International Chapter. After meeting professionals and colleagues in the information management field, I decided to direct my studies focusing on obtaining a career in RIM.

While working in the field for a few years as a Records Analyst, I attended an ARMA Conference (in London, Ontario) and stopped by the Dalhousie University booth promoting the Master of Information Management (MIM) program. I chatted with the Dalhousie representative, which I recently discovered was Michelle Hunter, and learned about the program. I was super excited! The program spoke to the possibilities I saw in the field and the direction I wanted my career to go. So, when the timing was right I applied, and well, the rest is history.

The MIM program helped me see the broader perspective of RIM and gave me the tools to apply in my place of work. The courses highlighted the capabilities of properly applied RIM and how to make that happen within an ever-changing work environment. Having the program offered in a blended on-line arrangement (virtual and in person), I had the amazing opportuning to learn from my classmates. Working with these wonderful people, I embraced the transferability of the teachings no matter where I worked.

Coming out of the MIM program I wanted to effect positive changes with RIM. The program inspired me to believe that wherever I worked that was possible. I graduated with the self-confidence that I could apply the knowledge gained from the program and add value and insight within the rapidly evolving field of information management.

When I first read the posting of the Records Manager at Dalhousie University, I felt that this was a role where I could make a difference. I feel lucky to have been chosen as the successful candidate as the Dalhousie Community has been very welcoming.

How would you encourage others to seek more education?

By embracing knowledge with an open mind, you will be guided to where you need to go (even if you are not sure what that is yet). By getting involved you will see things from different perspectives. This will better prepare you for many different situations. Not just become a member of an association – be engaged in the association, take in all they have to offer. I find this type of engagement feeds my soul.

Many of our graduates are retiring and/or taking over positions held by those who are retiring. How can we facilitate the life-cycle transitions within the work place?

Succession planning is key. Having a diverse workforce is essential in ensuring that the life-cycle continues, and that the knowledge is transferred. Creating a space where ‘new to the role’ and ‘people moving to the next step’ can chat and engage. Having these people connect and learn from each other. Networking – there are so many definitions but they all pretty much mean creating pathways to better things.

How do you include creativity in your busy schedule: i.e. music, painting, writing, singing, sports, travel, volunteerism?

I am still an active member of ARMA International. But I have moved from involvement with the local chapter to the national region – ARMA Canada Region. With this team, I hold an executive position. Being a part of something bigger helps keep things in perspective for me. I gain so much from the members of this community. I feel giving back is my way of saying thank you.

With a busy schedule it is easy to lose sight of things, so I go for hikes and trail runs to help keep my head clear. My hiking/running buddy Digby (my German Short Haired Pointer) helps me stay motivated and on track.

Courtney Bayne, Records Manager
May 2018

Courtney has graciously agreed to be a repeat contributor on CFAME Connection.

Maria Artuso: Resiliency and Perseverance

April 17, 2018 rbudd 2 Comments

“Continuous learning is my way of “paying it forward” – igniting in others the desire to always be better, do better. I reflect on the many individuals who provided me opportunities to teach and share experiences within a classroom setting, entrusting me to lead, create, develop new strategies, and contribute in ways that were personally rewarding and eye-opening.”

Maria Artuso MBA(FS) Class of 2015

If you have the personal drive to succeed – you can make anything happen.

I will be celebrating 20 years with my employer in June! Considering I had absolutely no desire or interest in banking or the financial industry, I see my journey as one of many experiences, with variety and generality vs. specialization as being the spice of life. I have had the great fortune of mentors who cared deeply about my career aspirations. I have held a variety of roles over my tenure, each move leading me into more senior roles. Looking back, I find it amazing, yet very rewarding, how one can adapt to increasing responsibility, face gender differences as a result of the evolving financial industry and societal expectations and have the unceasing need to change/adapt/pivot/execute.

I love the world we are in, albeit uncomfortable at times. I appreciate the mantra of “fail fast” as this gives us permission to have experiences, realizing that not everything will come together perfectly. It is okay to make mistakes if we learn from them. Sometimes we need to be satisfied at 80% vs. 100% completion. Being someone who is risk-aware, self-aware, and change-friendly, I have always felt the need to try new things, with calculated risk of course (this is not shocking!). I have an internal ‘firecracker’ that truly does not settle for second best.

My time at DAL, although overwhelming at first, considering I did not have an undergraduate degree when I applied, was a life-changing experience that is forever implanted in my memory bank. Complete strangers, who I now call friends, taught me that settling in life is not an option, and the broader world provides experiences that are sometimes not even a thought, but can certainly become a memory. I was encouraged to take risks, to stretch personal and professional growth, and challenge the status quo for the betterment of all those around me.

Lifelong and Continuous Learning

I was raised in a family where my parents did not have the educational opportunities that I have experienced. As new immigrants to Canada, my parents chose work out of the sheer need to survive and raise their children. They experienced many firsts in a new country that did not offer many familiarities. Their resiliency and perseverance instilled within me a personal desire and commitment to continue to learn and fuel my yearning for knowledge. In turn, I am dedicated to give back to local community organizations and peers within my organization.

Continuous learning is my way of “paying it forward” – igniting in others the desire to always be better, do better. I reflect on the many individuals who provided me opportunities to teach and share experiences within a classroom setting, entrusting me to lead, create, develop new strategies, and contribute in ways that were personally rewarding and eye-opening. I am very fortunate to be in a place that fosters life-long learning. I take nothing for granted.

What is my next journey? Time management skills and working at a higher capacity was a legacy of my years with Dalhousie and certainly a foundation for what I am proud of today. I went on to achieve the Fellowship of CSI and am seriously contemplating my PhD over the next couple of years. Higher education stretches us and creates a strategic mindset that influences our thought processes and reasoning abilities. I now approach scenarios thoughtfully with an interdisciplinary perspective, open to a variety of bias’s and filtering information to come up with the most comparable results and outcomes. I appreciated Dalhousie’s open and respectful environment that generated meaningful discussions. I am proud to have leveraged the outcomes of my MBA(FS) years in my day-to-day professional career.

How do you integrate creativity in a structured environment?

Working in a highly regulated, policy driven, client focused, for-profit organization may, for some, feel like an environment where once ideas are “fully baked,” they are shared like a gift, wrapped in a box with a bow, and accepted without question. My belief is that in today’s working environment, organizations seek out individuals who offer creative suggestions and engage with co-workers to work together to make things better. You need to be open to an environment that fosters dialogue, challenges one’s thoughts respectfully, and leaves no possibility or opportunity to chance. I believe that flexibility allows for fresh possibilities. The key is to be open to providing candid, authentic feedback. Encouraging others to have a voice makes a real and significant difference in shaping a path forward—particularly as the financial services industry continues to undergo accelerated transformation. Rapid change is the new normal. To adapt and thrive within a complex and unpredictable environment, we must continue to get the support and give the support. Creativity is built upon perseverance. Resiliency is the outcome of our commitment to bring our best to the responsibilities given to each of us.

Maria Artuso MBA(FS) 2015, Manager, Financial Planning at RBC Royal Bank, was recently named one of Ottawa’s Top 40 under 40 business professionals. She looks forward to beginning her new role in April 2018 as Director, Business Enablement and Performance within RBC Insurance. A successful, highly motivated business leader with a track record of success in the fields of operational effectiveness, retail banking, commercial banking, and leadership, Maria is dedicated to giving back to her community, believing that her volunteerism enhances her job performance and life experiences. Maria has graciously agreed to be a repeat contributor on CFAME Connection.

John A. Luchetti: Cover-to-Cover

March 20, 2018 rbudd 3 Comments

“In our family, books were more than a path to knowledge! They were period pieces that spoke to the culture and human spirit at a point in time. They were windows to the soul of the author.”

John A. Luchetti

John Luchetti MBA(FS) 2015

Books have always been an integral part of my family history. My grandfather had a library in his house in Italy with over 10,000 books. The oldest book I perused was printed in 1550. It was called Ciceronis Orationum. Unfortunately, this book, like most of the books in this collection, were lost to family politics. The only remaining books finding their way to Canada was a 1775 version of the same titled book, and a series of Jules Verne classics printed in the mid-to-late 1800s.

In our family, books were more than a path to knowledge! They were period pieces that spoke to the culture and human spirit at a point in time. They were windows to the soul of the author. They were springboards to new ideas, innovations, and inspirations. They made us think, laugh, cry, escape, and even ponder alternate realities through fantasy and science fiction. Books took us places, and led us through journeys not possible anywhere else.

In short, books stirred feeling in us that expanded our realm of possibilities, what could be more human than that?

On a trip to Rome in 2008, I fondly remember performing several very clumsy pirouettes in the center of the Roman Coliseum. It wasn’t the first time I was there, however, it was the first time I was on a trip where I felt absolutely insignificant. I marveled at the history of this place, the people that lived, worked, taught, learned, created, and died here throughout the ages.

John (white t-shirt) and his brother visiting their Grandfather’s library in Italy.

My mind was bombarded by the historical possibilities, the realities of lives lived, and lives lost in this time-weathered place. What stories are known? Which are unknown? What key learning has been brought forward through time? Have we missed more than what we know? And what will we never know? Forever lost to history.

The rush of information which permeated my senses as I stood in this place trying to recall what I knew about Ancient Rome was overwhelming. What experiences, hardships, heartaches, successes, failures have this place seen? I shivered with delight and shuddered with insignificance of my own mortality. I thought, how could I live multiple lives in one lifetime?

I remembered, decades earlier, when picking up Ciceronis Orationum. It was illegible, written wholly in Latin. Reading the book was not an option, however, I do remember saying: “Dad, I’m holding history. How many hands do you think touched this book? What kind of person would have read this book? What would they say of its content?”

My father was an intellect. He was very cerebral – logical and precise, I guess as a chemist, you need to be. He thought deeply about many things and one example he had hanging in his study which now hangs in mine, its origin is unknown to me.

The Message

English translation:

Here live men who have outlived themselves

Here they speak silently

Here they listen and remain quiet

Here they are interrogated and mute is there response

The feelings and the questions inspired by this old book so many years ago where similar to the feelings and thoughts I had standing in the Roman Coliseum.

This book inspired me to love books as did standing in the center of the coliseum in Rome inspired me to love a life of life-long learning. This was the impetus that led me to Dalhousie’s MBA(FS) program. A thirst for knowledge and experiences.

Having completed my MBA(FS) in 2015, and with some serious time on my hands, I have started to collect books, all kinds of books. I tend to shy away from digital books because there is no better feeling then immersing oneself in a book, flipping the pages, using a bookmark, and reading it cover-to-cover.

John A. Luchetti MBA(FS) 2015 is PMO Lead at TransUnion, specializing in project/program/portfolio management. His areas of expertise cover a broad spectrum from relationship management and cross functional team management, to negotiation, conflict resolution, and mediation. John has graciously agreed to be a repeat contributor on CFAME Connection.

Photography Credit: John A. Luchetti

Friday Reflection

March 16, 2018 rbudd Leave a Comment

“For books are more than books, they are the life, the very heart and core of ages past, the reason why men worked and died, the essence and quintessence of their lives.”

Marcus Tullius Cicero

Halifax Boardwalk, Halifax Nova Scotia
Photo Credit: John Luchetti, MBA(FS) 2015

Category: MBA (FS)