Graduates – Page 9

Dr. Rick Nason: Removing Complacency within a Dynamic Global Business Environment

June 11, 2019 rbudd Leave a Comment

Craig Macklin MBA(FS) Class of 2014 sent in a question to Dr. Rick Nason:

“I’ve taken a position of continually considering the changing global business environment as a way to remove complacency in my strategies when improving a company’s results…what are the 2-3 most important elements you see globally, that company leaders should pay attention to so that they can start getting comfortable being uncomfortable, especially in the face of the looming recession?” Craig Macklin MBA(FS)

In the fourth installment of striving for success in 2019, Dr. Rick Nason discusses the changing global business environment, getting comfortable being uncomfortable and removing complacency in strategic thinking.

Dr. Rick Nason:

Being comfortable with being uncomfortable is likely to be a phenomenon of the 20’s; the 2020’s that is. The pace of globalization, the pace of AI and Big Data, and the pace of FinTech, HealthTech, RegTech, PersonTech, WhateverTech, combined with a demographic shift in the workforce that has not been experienced since the end of the Second World War will mean that the role and responsibilities of the manager are going to be altered like never before.

Trying to fight the onset of these forces facing the manager is a Sisyphean task. I believe that we are already experiencing the less than optimal individual managerial actions of a cohort nearing retirement who are striving to make their methods that worked in the 1980’s and 90’s effective today. This is for an age when the seemingly inexperienced millennium upstarts, with nothing more than gumption, upset another industry on an almost daily basis. It is a phenomenon that I call the “constipated middle”. That is, it is the group of relatively senior managers who are hanging on to a world that no longer exists in hopes that they can make it to retirement without being exposed. By the way, the same effect is true for those who are relying on their credentials for success, regardless of age or experience.

If you have ever been in one of my classes, or heard one of my seminars, then you know that one of my favorite quotes comes from philosopher Eric Hoffer. He stated, “In time of change, learners inherit the earth, while the learned find themselves beautifully equipped to deal with a world that no longer exists”. You need to select whether you will be learned, or a learner. Unfortunately, and ironically, as academics, we focus on being learned, despite our proclamations that we are institutions of higher learning. The evidence is clear; our focus on rubrics (please, shoot me now!), multiple choice tests, objectivity in marking, tests designed for computer marking, etc… This is reinforced with our emphasis on credentials; gotta get more letters behind my name to be competitive (and so I can be picked by the HR computer filters for a promotion)!

The first rule of becoming comfortable with being uncomfortable is to be a learner. Learn broadly. Learn creatively. Learn diversely. One of my favorite techniques when I am faced with a problem, is to go to the bookstore and buy the three magazines on topics or areas that I know nothing about and have zero previous interest in. Going into places you have never gone before not only works for StarTrek fans, but also for your ability to learn, to be creative, and to develop your dots. Managers would be much better off if they would only spend as much time and effort on their network of learning as they do on their professional networking and building their social media profile.

Being comfortable with being uncomfortable means you need to develop the skill of learning. However, this is much more than knowing stuff. Knowing stuff is a commodity; hey Alexa, what’s … ? Knowing stuff is an almost valueless commodity today with not only the developments in AI, but also the ready access to AI. The new learner doesn’t source knowledge but connects knowledge. The manager who can connect the most dots, as well as the most diverse dots, is the manager with the competitive advantage. The person who knows stuff is being replaced by a bot, or someone with a decent internet connection in an emerging economy who is willing to put in the effort to know more stuff, more efficiently, and to do it for less than you spend on coffee in a day.

What is left after AI takes away knowledge is empathy. Rita McGrath, a Columbia University professor, wrote a short Harvard Business Review article titled “Management’s Three Eras: A Brief History”[1]. In this paradigm shifting article, she talks about how management was first about technology; how do manufacture a pin most efficiently. Then came scientific management and Taylorism; how do we optimize the assembly line. The third era, the era we are coming into, she labels the “era of empathy”, and I agree with her. Empathy is nothing more than understanding people; and I stress that empathy is not sympathy or pity. Empathy is understanding why people think and act as they do. Empathy does not mean that you agree with them.

In a related, but tangential theme, Geoff Colvin’s book “Humans are Underrated”[2], states that many professionals mistakenly try to fight the onset of the bots by asking: “what is it that I can do that a computer, or a bot cannot do?” Colvin’s answer is nothing! He states that the better question to ask is: “what is it that I can do that people do not want or will not allow a computer, or a bot to do?” I think he is on to something. What is left after AI takes the basic knowledge component is relationships, and I don’t mean relationships of the swipe left or right variety.

I would be remiss, as well as hypocritical if I did not mention the importance of complexity. I believe that all of the above is wrapped up in complexity. The manager of the 20’s needs to understand and appreciate complexity. That is a different set of skills, and a different set of attributes than we normally associate with management. Our management paradigms, as well as our educational paradigms, both in business education, and general education, have almost completely ignored complexity. I believe that complexity knowledge is the killer app for managers. I have a recommended reading on complexity if anyone is interested.

Ultimately being comfortable with being uncomfortable is being comfortable with being a human being, rather than some stereotype that the media and business schools give us of the business leader. Being comfortable with being uncomfortable requires humility, self-esteem, and a thrill and lust for the challenge. That’s what makes being a manager fun!

[1] McGarth, Rita, “Management’s Three Eras: A Brief History”, Harvard Business Review, July 30, 2014, https://hbr.org/2014/07/managements-three-eras-a-brief-history

[2] Colvin, Geoff, “Humans are Underrated: What High Achievers Know That Brilliant Machines Never Will”, Portfolio, 2016

Stephen J. Boyd: Taking the Challenge of The Big Swim

May 7, 2019 rbudd Leave a Comment

Big Swim

Have you ever considered swimming across the Northumberland Strait? Most haven’t. But for those who have there is the BIG SWIM, your chance to do something truly epic. The BIG SWIM is a supported event held in August each year that combines an epic feat of endurance with the opportunity to raise funds for an awesome charity. The BIG SWIM is not a race and supports swimmers of all abilities to get out into the Northumberland Strait and achieve the unimaginable.” The Big Swim

Stephen Boyd is taking on the challenge of the Big Swim to be held August 18, 2019. In the coming months, Stephen will be focused on training for this “epic” swim. CEGE Connection is pleased to advise that we will be covering this event over the months, following Stephen on his journey. This is the first in the series of The Big Swim – A Give to Live Project.

Big Swim

Stephen J. Boyd (Class of 2018):

Life has so many wonderful opportunities to offer

As mentioned in a previous post, I am recovering from an injury that will prevent me from competing this summer in my first 100-mile ultramarathon. During my period of self-pity, Sarah (my best support and spouse), suggested I consider the BIG SWIM event, where athletes of all abilities swim from New Brunswick to Prince-Edward-Island. For normal people who cross the Northumberland Strait by bridge or ferry, the distance is roughly 13 Kms. Due to currents, and other unknowns, I am told that the average swimmer will cover 15+ Kms.

The Big Swim – Give to Live gives participants the opportunity to accomplish a feat that few have, while raising funds for a charity that supports children. It is a great opportunity to give back to my community. Without any hesitation, or putting any thought into logistics, I registered the moment the portal opened.

For the last month or so, I have been swimming at Dalhousie’s recreation and athletic center, where I log miles in the pool. Since there are not too many of us who show up for 5:45 am (other than the varsity teams), I have had the opportunity to speak with one of the “regulars”. One on occasion, he asked me if I was training for anything in particular; I went on to explain that I was intending on swimming across the Northumberland Strait. As is the case with most people, his question to me was: “why?”

My immediate response was: “why not?” I further elaborated on the importance of my two kids embracing that life is about going beyond the ordinary, and welcoming the unknown.

Recently, during an exchange of correspondence, Rebecca Budd (CEGE Editor) reminded me that on occasion we have re-evaluate our priorities, and that success in life goes further beyond our careers. Don’t misunderstand me; I appreciate my professional career, but it is only a small part of who I am. Later in the spring, Sarah will be competing with her synchronized swimming team in Quebec City. Despite working full-time and being an exemplary mother of two, she has the tenacity to train hard during the week; that is success I admire.

Some years ago, I had the opportunity to speak with someone that had reached the summit of the world’s highest mountains. His advice to me was to never forget that we really only compete against ourselves, and to keep winning; perhaps, that was some of the best advice I’ve ever received. Besides, ordinary is exactly as it sounds. As Mark Twain once wrote:

“Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it is time to pause and reflect.”

I look forward to sharing my thoughts as I embark on the exciting journey.

Alana Riley: A Woman’s Day on the Honour System

March 7, 2019 rbudd 2 Comments

Alana Riley MBA(FS) 2017

As a teenager, I remember well that my Mother, a career professional, was actively involved in the celebration of International Women’s Day. Each year, I would attend as her guest with my younger sister. It was an event I looked forward to each year. There, we sat in a room mostly filled with women. Dinner, speeches, awards, a full celebration of diversity. As part of my upbringing I thought it would be hard to imagine a work environment where employees were not all equally respected and represented. So, it certainly came as a surprise to me that, in my first leadership role, I was sitting in a meeting with twelve men and two women. Looking back, that ratio for the 90’s was impressive!

Twenty years later, I entered a different meeting room, filled with senior banking leaders with the same diversity ratio, if you include the facilitator, to attend an ‘Unconscious Bias’ presentation. The training was held on the corporate banking floor. It felt like a throw-back to the 90’s. At the break, I jokingly asked if they actually had a lady’s room on this floor of the building. I was greeted with quizzical looks as if I just asked a very perplexing question!

Recently, during a panel event, I was asked: what changes would we need to see in the work place to make a true difference for women in leadership? The one area that seems to be overlooked in the Diversity and Inclusion planning process is recognizing the extraordinary impact of contributions made by women. Men are active in ‘He for She’ and advocate for Me Too, yet our biggest obstacle may be ourselves.

In celebration of International Women’s Day on March 8^th, commit to honouring each other and ourselves through 10 commitments for 2019;

The way to your next role is to be the very best at your current role. Period.
Seek roles that push you outside your comfort zone and trust that you have the skillset required to thrive.
Be your authentic self, do not change your personality, leverage it.
Set learning and growth goals and find an accountability partner.
Do not apologize for requiring flexibility to meet your family needs.
As woman leaders, mandate diversity of job applicants with a clear understanding that regardless of the ratio goal, the best candidate will prevail.
Commit to a pay it forward approach, providing mentorship to other women who seek it.
Commit to supporting and building strong networks of women who work in support of each other, not in competition with one another.
‘Done is Better than Perfect’ are words to live by.
Honour Yourself by taking time for Yourself – yes, every day!

Happy International Women’s Day!

Alana Riley MBA(FS) 2017, Senior Vice President, Financial Services at IG Wealth Management, is committed to employee engagement and client centric outcomes. As a success-driven professional with a consistent track record of generating exceptional results while motivating top performing teams, Alana excels within an agile setting, where innovation and strategic thinking are highly valued assets. Passionate about leadership, she fosters a collaborative work environment that enhances individual and team-based participation. Alana is a repeat contributor on CEGE Connection. We invite you to read Alana’s first post, Investing in You.

Carrie Morrison: Exploring the Limits of Potential

February 12, 2019 rbudd Leave a Comment

“The sweetest successes come from adventures which push us past our limits, challenge our strength and test our will. Ultimately, learning to embrace change, thriving within ambiguity, stretching and releasing myself of personal constraints, and having the determination to persevere no matter the challenge were my greatest lessons.

Carrie Morrison MBA(FS) Class of 2018

With the completion of my MBA(FS), I rewarded myself by taking the trip of a lifetime, cage diving with Great White Sharks off the coast of Guadeloupe. What a thrilling adventure, taking risks and diving into an experience filled with uncertainty! Believe it or not, I leveraged many of the skills I learned to enjoy and embrace throughout my MBA candidacy.

In 2014, I resolved to take ownership over my own success and explore opportunities that would push me outside of my comfort zone. As a mother of two and a dedicated Branch Manager in the financial services sector, my decision to engage in a challenging academic journey was an affirmation and commitment to myself. I recognized that life is measured by our choices and the risks we take to realize our potential. I wanted a life filled with experiences marked by courage and purpose, rather than defined by risks avoided or sidestepped.

My MBA journey provided me with lessons far beyond my expectations. Fast forward four years of balancing multiple priorities and a lot of hard work, graduation became one of the proudest moments of my life. I experienced indescribable feelings of accomplishment, confidence and assuredness, which can only be summarized as personal success!

Upon reflection, the most significant and impactful lessons were not illustrated within the program outline or a course syllabus; rather, it was the unwritten lessons which have left a lasting imprint:

Having the courage to take risks, accepting that failure is plausible but having the resilience to continue;
Embracing uncertainty; the sweetest and most rewarding accomplishments come from those which we have pushed ourselves beyond our comfort zone;
Increased awareness and understanding of personal capacity with limitless boundaries or guardrails restricting my potential;
Welcoming change and fostering the determination and discipline to take responsibility for personal growth.

Surprisingly, and in some ways not surprisingly at all, the ultimate learning I have experienced from achieving a MBA is that the sweetest successes come from adventures which push us past our limits, challenge our strength and test our will. Ultimately, learning to embrace change, thriving within ambiguity, stretching and releasing myself of personal constraints, and having the determination to persevere no matter the challenge were my greatest lessons.

Today, and as I move forward in my career with aspirations of becoming an executive of the bank within the year and a senior executive within the next seven years (I always put a time frame on my goals), the textbook learnings, care of Dalhousie University, will guide my judgement and decisioning. Whereas the unwritten, unpublished and unmarketed soft-skill learnings will continue to drive me forward toward my dreams and full potential.

My advice is to have courage to accept a challenge and reach outside of your comfort zone, for within challenge is where personal growth blooms!

Carrie Morrison MBA(FS) Class of 2018

Carrie Morrison MBA(FS) leads an amazing group of colleagues who represent the North American Contact Centre in initiatives, campaigns and projects across the TD enterprise in a business leadership capacity. CEGE Connection is pleased to advise that Carrie has graciously agreed to be a repeat contributor on CEGE Connection.

Stephen Boyd: Beyond Limits

January 17, 2019 rbudd Leave a Comment

With the arrival of the new year, it is important to remind ourselves that hesitation is one of the highest forms of opportunity cost. No matter what we may think our constraints or limitations are, we can generally push ourselves further.”

Stephen Boyd MBA(FS) Class of 2018

Crossing the Finish Line Lake Placid Ironman

“All limits are self imposed.” Icarus

In 2010, I decided to start running, inspired by a family member, who began competing in ultramarathons at age 50. The following year, it was no surprise to family when I casually announced that it was my intention to complete in an Ironman triathlon (4 Km swim, 180 Km bike, and 42.2 Km run- all within a 17-hour time limit). Despite my relative inexperience in running and cycling, I took on the challenge of training 20+ hours a week, which often included waking up at 3:15 AM. I recall that on one occasion, a police officer asked me why I was cycling at such an absurd time of the day. On July 22, 2012, at 11:43 PM, I crossed the finish line at the Lake Placid Ironman. It was an affirmation to continue striving for goals that seemed beyond my limits. The honours of that day belonged to a 75-year old triathlete, who successfully completed the race.

I went on to pursue the Ironman Muskoka in 2015, welcoming the challenges and obstacles of training for an endurance event. Mission accomplished! My personal circumstances during this time period changed; my son was born, my career became more demanding, and I was now studying for an MBA at Dalhousie University. I set some onerous goals for my studies, since I have in mind to some day pursue a PhD. Despite personal challenges and the time restrictions that accompany a robust academic journey, I graduated with distinction as the 2018 Director’s Award recipient for highest academic achievement.

To be clear, I have never been a gifted athlete (average at best), nor do I claim to have above-average intelligence. However, I am a firm believer that our personal frame of mind is often the largest obstacle in achieving personal objectives. Many years ago, I was involved a bad car accident. It was a pivotal moment. It was then that I resolved that I would no longer hesitate to pursue ambitious goals, no matter what life chose to throw at me. For instance, at present I am working through an injury which will prevent me from competing in a 100-mile ultramarathon this summer. Admittedly, I found myself expressing negativity about my injury; but I have since shifted my frame of mind and re-directed my energy to other ventures, which may include swimming from New Brunswick to Prince Edward Island in August.

Stephen J. Boyd MBA(FS) Class of 2018

Stephen J. Boyd, MBA(FS) Class of 2018, was the recipient of the prestigious Rowe School of Business Award for Highest Academic Achievement. CEGE Connection is pleased to advise that Stephen has graciously agreed to be a repeat contributor on CEGE Connection.

Golnaz Zilabi: Opportunities, Innovative Thinking, Building Resilience

January 3, 2019 rbudd 3 Comments

“I was amazed by the level of energy that I had when striving to achieve my goals. I embraced a flexible mindset and enjoyed collaborating with my classmate. Being receptive to other point of views opened opportunities for innovative thinking. It all came down to being adaptable to my new lifestyle and including time-management strategies into daily routines. The outcome of my studies has been increased resilience and well-being.”

Golnaz Zilabi Class of 2019

Golnaz Zilabi, MBA(FS) Class of 2019

Golnaz Zilabi, Portfolio Analyst at RBC Wealth Management Private Banking, was a member of “IRIS Cameras,” International Business class team that finished 1st place in the GLO-BUS simulation exercise conducted during IB Winter 2018.

In a recent virtual interview, Golnaz shared her thoughts on accepting the challenge of a robust academic journey and how her studies influenced her personal and career goals.

Golnaz Zilabi:

My reasons for pursuing MBA studies were both personal and work-related. I recognized the MBA(FS) brand and Dalhousie’s prestigious reputation meant nationwide recognition of my credentials and an enhanced business and career standing within my profession. My position as senior account manager and extensive experience in the financial services industry provided an excellent foundation upon which to broaden my knowledge and strategic mindset. I am curious and have an infinite interest and appetite for deeper learning that opens new possibilities and career opportunities that come when interacting within large business networks. I appreciate connecting with other finance professionals and executives. Accepting an academic journey satisfied my innate need to explore new ideas and challenge myself to attain a greater understanding of our complex world.

There is no limit to what you can accomplish with an MBA(FS), given the variety of courses and material covered during the program. Students are furnished with solid basis of business fundamentals, specifically in financial industry. The future promises astonishing changes within our work forces and job functions. Professors create learning environments that promote vibrant dialogues and inspire leadership qualities. I always had a goal to take my career to a new direction and pursue opportunities and challenges which I had previously never encountered.

I viewed the MBA(FS) as an investment in myself with the aim of developing another versatile and valuable career path within my existing organization. My academic journey has influenced my career path even as it has transformed my personal outlook. I have developed my autonomy and strengthened my analytical skills and knowledge which I adhere in my day-to-day routines as a Portfolio Analyst. My management and communication skills have been heightened, adding personal credibility in my chosen career path.

As a Mother of two small children, I tackled the challenges of balancing my studies, career and spending quality time with my family. I received inspiration from my beloved husband and truly treasured his ongoing support and encouragement. The flexibility of program was invaluable. I appreciated how the Centre for Executive and Graduate Education tailored the courses to my individual needs and enabled me to develop a plan that fulfilled my commitments. I learned how to proactively prioritize and schedule my time. As soon as I figured out my rhythms, I was able to assign my times accordingly. I also considered my learning style and developed a model which worked for me most effectively. I used every resource available to me as a student and adapted to my new lifestyle.

I was amazed by the level of energy that I had when striving to achieve my goals. I embraced a flexible mindset and enjoyed collaborating with my classmate. Being receptive to other point of views opened opportunities for innovative thinking. It all came down to being adaptable to my new lifestyle and including time-management strategies into daily routines. The outcome of my studies has been increased resilience and well-being.

CEGE Connection is pleased to advise that Golnaz has graciously agreed to be a repeat contributor on CEGE Connection.

Chris Donnelly: The Right to be Forgotten – Can this work in Canada?

December 13, 2018 rbudd 1 Comment

“The right to be forgotten, also known as the erasure law, has undoubtedly been met with some controversy. There are those who fully support the right of an individual to safeguard anything that is written and searchable about them. If the information no longer fits the person’s lifestyle, beliefs, or is not criminal in nature, does this removal of data and information impact anyone? On the other hand, there are those who believe that once something is written, or made available in the public domain, that this should exist forever, regardless of a person’s current situation.” The Right to be Forgotten – Can this work in Canada?

Chris Donnelly, MIM Class of 2018

In celebration of the 10^th anniversary of the Master of Information Management, Dr. Sandra Toze arranged a virtual interview with Chris Donnelly, Senior Functional Analyst, Business Intelligence at RCMP and the 2018 recipient of the prestigious SIM Director’s Award, given to the MIM grad with the highest overall GPA. Chris focused his research on a question that has significant implications on how individuals, indeed our society, will manage privacy and the right to be forgotten.

Chris has been a student of Dalhousie University for nine of the past 18 years, first graduating from the Faculty of Management’s Bachelor of Commerce Co-op program in 2005, with a major in Finance, which led him to a brief stint in banking, followed by a fulfilling career with the Government of Canada. Since 2008, Chris has been working as a functional systems analyst, specifically with enterprise resource planning and data analytics-based applications. Realizing a gap in his knowledge base, and wanting to enhance his current role, he re-applied to Dalhousie, and was accepted into the MIM program in 2014. He offered this thought to students who feel that their journey may never end, “there really is light at the end of the tunnel. A robust academic program is rewarding and worth the effort. In my experience, the MIM provided insight into strategic and knowledge-based thinking and the opportunity to connect with remarkable peers and mentors.”

CEGE Connection is thrilled that Chris has generously agreed to share his research that provides invaluable insight and a Canadian perspective on the issues surrounding the complex right to be forgotten. We invite you to join the conversation.

Chris Donnelly:

In 2014, the European Union (EU) enacted the concept of the right to be forgotten into law when a ruling against Google was handed down, granting a Spanish citizen’s request to have any links to his financial hardship that occurred 15 years prior. This citizen was successful in de-linking any articles relating to him from a Google search. While the articles may still be available, any direct links via Google were removed. Fast-forward four years later. Since this landmark case, Google has since received requests to remove more than 2.43 million URLs for sites alone since this ruling and has since removed about 43 percent (or 1.05 million) of these URLs (Doubek, 2018).

Google has since received requests to remove more than 2.43 million URLs for sites alone since this ruling and has since removed about 43 percent (or 1.05 million) of these URLs (Doubek, 2018).

So, who is ensuring that companies such as Google are in compliance, and are responsible for processing these requests?

Enter the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The GDPR covers requirements and guidelines regarding the gathering and processing of ‘people data,’ personally identifiable information of individuals and citizens within the EU (Wikipedia, 2018). This regulation is enforced, and applies to all organizations, regardless of location, that has dealings with the EU. Implemented on May 25th, 2018, this regulation aims to further protect citizens by ensuring that their data and information are stored securely, describe how the data is stored and protected, providing greater clarity and transparency on privacy, and how these citizens may be able to access their own data.

Should an individual be able to seek protection from themselves? Meaning, is it important that an individual have the right to have their data erased no matter the circumstances? This ongoing debate may take years to resolve in the EU. Which begs another question, how may Canadians be impacted?

Furthermore, in conjunction with the right to be forgotten legislation, citizens have the right to request their data be erased, based on lawfulness, relevance, or other factors. This legislation protects private citizens when dealing with businesses. Should an individual be able to seek protection from themselves? Meaning, is it important that an individual have the right to have their data erased no matter the circumstances? This ongoing debate may take years to resolve in the EU. Which begs another question, how may Canadians be impacted?

Close to home, no legislation exists within Canada that offers an individual the right to be forgotten, neither through business nor social media. Why is this?

Canadians spend hours a day online, using social media and blogging. Thoughts are shared, and opinions are formed. Debates and dialogues ensue. Many online public forums, including social media are open for everyone to see, despite privacy settings. Should the Canadian government protect us as citizens against ourselves? Or should we be personally accountable for our online content, no matter the age, mental state or background? This may be hard to tell. Indeed, adults should be aware of taking precautions and be mindful as to the perks and pitfalls of the Internet. A general rule of thumb is that if you post or share something online, it will be there forever. Nevertheless, not everyone knows these perks and pitfalls; nor do some even care of the detriment they may be causing themselves.

Should the Canadian government protect us as citizens against ourselves? Or should we be personally accountable for our online content, no matter the age, mental state or background? This may be hard to tell. Indeed, adults should be aware of taking precautions and be mindful as to the perks and pitfalls of the Internet. A general rule of thumb is that if you post or share something online, it will be there forever.

Adults may have to atone for their actions, but what about children and adolescents?

Children and adolescents are undoubtedly impressionable. In many cases, does being naïve or poorly informed the right to request to have links to something that may have been published on social media erased? Or deleted altogether? California has enacted legislation protecting adolescents and children by allowing the ability to wipe the online content that they have posted. A website must disclose what data is being collected and used by the site on behalf of the minor. Based on the information provided, parents then have the right to prohibit the website’s operator from collecting data and information and can request to have this deleted.

All this to say, there may be a disconnect between the right to be forgotten, the right to the freedom of expression, and privacy. In Canada, we are taught at a very young age to express ourselves, and that we are fortunate enough to live in a country where we have the freedom to do so. On the other hand, we also have the right to privacy and protection. Expression vs. privacy, who wins? There may be more at play here, such as what is the limit of expression, but more importantly, the redefinition of what privacy truly means. If someone expresses an opinion that is not directly harmful to the reputation of an individual, nor criminal in nature, is there indeed any undue harm?

All this to say, there may be a disconnect between the right to be forgotten, the right to the freedom of expression, and privacy. In Canada, we are taught at a very young age to express ourselves, and that we are fortunate enough to live in a country where we have the freedom to do so. On the other hand, we also have the right to privacy and protection. Expression vs. privacy, who wins?

Which leads to the redefinition of privacy in the digital age. Almost all millennials grew up as digital natives, and many have had an online presence since they were in grade school. As a result, their social media presence has been years in the making. Therefore, their data and information have not been private in the traditional sense for most of their lives. How does this impact Canadians in the future? A redefinition as to what is considered private versus what may be made available publicly is essential. Granted, specific personal information such as name, gender, beliefs, should be safeguarded and only released by the individual who owns this information. Other information posted in a public setting may be readily available if the information is not detrimental to the individual. Ultimately, we as a society, have to determine how we proceed in handling this.

Almost all millennials grew up as digital natives, and many have had an online presence since they were in grade school. As a result, their social media presence has been years in the making. Therefore, their data and information have not been private in the traditional sense for most of their lives. How does this impact Canadians in the future?

Where the right to be forgotten could become a problem in Canada is if there is a difference in opinion between the private citizen and the online source of information. If the information is factual, and provides protection for other Canadians, specifically in criminal matters, the right to be forgotten is not a vehicle that may be available to those who wish to re-write history. A recent poll suggests that Canadians are not ready for an erasure law within Canada as 58% of respondents feel that links and information about an individual should not be erased (Watson, 2018). Greater sample size may change these results; however, this may indicate that while Canadians are aware of the right to be forgotten, they may not be fully ready to embrace this concept within their borders. Despite these statistics, in nations where democracy is prevalent, more and more citizens are stepping up and voicing their concern over the type of data and information that is being captured. Citizens are becoming increasingly aware of their rights and the type of data retention policies that companies are enacting. It may be only a matter of time before similar legislation is enacted within our borders.

If the information is factual, and provides protection for other Canadians, specifically in criminal matters, the right to be forgotten is not a vehicle that may be available to those who wish to re-write history. A recent poll suggests that Canadians are not ready for an erasure law within Canada as 58% of respondents feel that links and information about an individual should not be erased (Watson, 2018).

The concept of the right to be forgotten and erasure laws are undoubtedly controversial. As Canadians become increasingly more educated as to how our data is used, captured, and what is written about us, we will inevitably become more concerned as to the intended use of our information. As privacy definitions change, and as Canadians become prudent as to what is shared, a demand will surface that will leave Canadian law makers with little choice but to consider similar legislation to the right to be forgotten and the GDPR within our borders.

Whether Canadians fully embrace this remains to be seen. Stay tuned.

Chris Donnelly, 2018

References

Doubek, J. (2018, February 28). Google Has Received 650,000 ‘Right To Be Forgotten’ Requests Since 2014. Retrieved April 28, 2018, from The Two Way: NPR: https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2018/02/28/589411543/google-received-650-000-right-to-be-forgotten-requests-since-2014

Watson, H. (2018, April 12). Do Canadians Want the Right to be Forgotten? Retrieved June 23, 2018, from J Source – The Canadian Journalism Project: http://j-source.ca/article/do-canadians-want-the-right-to-be-forgotten/

Wikipedia. (2018, July 21). General Data Protection Regulation. Retrieved July 21, 2018, from Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_Data_Protection_Regulation

John-David Etter: Graduations, Reflections and New Beginnings

November 5, 2018 rbudd 1 Comment

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

As the Class of 2018 graduation approached, I had the opportunity to reflect on the MBA (FS) program, a three-year journey which offered rigorous challenges while achieving personal success. Throughout my MBA(FS) years, I met professors and classmates who left a lasting impression in my life and provided an endless amount of camaraderie as we travelled our journey together.

What sparked my interest to pursue the MBA (FS) degree was somewhat unconventional. As many colleagues, mentors, leaders, and friends have taken their path through the program, it was a family legacy that truly guided me to DAL. Seventeen years ago, my mother, Ann Etter, graduated from the MBA (FS) program. As a high school student at the time, we could be found doing our homework collectively at the dining room table. Her discipline in managing work, school, a home, and an emotional teenager seemed effortless. Looking back, I recognize the many challenges she faced in completing her MBA(FS). During those formative years, my identity was created, including my belief in life-long learning. I have a huge respect and appreciation for my mother’s mentorship. It is a privilege to be able to complete this program and walk in the footprints of such an accomplished woman.

Ann Etter, Class of 2001

Applying for a graduate program was intimidating, particularly since I had been out of school and in the workforce for over a decade. Studies were stimulating and difficult but worth every second. The MBA(FS) gave me the skill-sets to recognize opportunities and participate within a complex, evolving environment.

Since moving to Ontario, my journey is slightly different. I have started my own family. My wife’s enthusiastic encouragement was truly remarkable, especially given the amount of time and financial resources that were devoted to achieving my goal. I look forward to moving forward, as a family, to the next steps in life.

I am proud to have Dalhousie University as my alma mater. My heritage is the East Coast of Canada; there are many in my family who are graduates of Dalhousie. As for the future, I am excited to see what it brings. With no immediate plans, health and well-being are important.

As I collected my degree, the Chancellor of Dalhousie, The Honourable A. Anne McLellan asked a profound question: if health and well-being would be for me, or for the world? I responded with an unequivocal – BOTH. I believe that question will be a guiding thought as I move forward.

I will continue to dream big, read more, and always attempt to be a better derivative of myself. While the future is wide open, I can always look back, with gratitude, at the path I have travelled to help define my future.

John-David Etter, Class of 2018

CEGE Connection is delighted to advise that John-David Etter has graciously agreed to be a repeat contributor on CEGE Connection.

Celebrating Milestones: The 10th Anniversary of the MBA(FS) Class of 2008

November 4, 2018 rbudd 7 Comments

“I have very fond memories of the class of 2008; so much spirit, engagement and a wonderful camaraderie.” Michelle Hunter

MBA(FS) Class of 2008

Class of 2008 BMO

CEGE Connection would like to recognize the contribution of the MBA(FS) Class of 2008 as they celebrate their tenth-year anniversary. All our best goes out to the Class of 2008 on this very special milestone year. Thank you for your commitment to excellence, life-long learning and the communities in which you live and work.

Michelle Hunter & Rebecca Budd

MBA(FS) Class of 2008

CEGE Connection: Celebrating our 2nd Anniversary

November 1, 2018 rbudd 2 Comments

Michelle Hunter, Rebecca & Thomas Budd, Graduation Day, Class of 2003

As CEGE Connection enters our third year of existence, Michelle Hunter and I want to express our thanks for the positive and encouraging feedback that we have received from students, graduates and professors. Our blog has been designed as a space for ongoing dialogue and shared interests, which has enabled us to be ever more connected to our readers and supporters. This coming year, we will continue to feature our remarkable alumni and the pioneering research that is being conducted at Dalhousie University.

A special thanks to Michelle Hunter who celebrated her 25 years of service at Dalhousie University, the same year as #DAL200. Her compassionate support and invaluable advice have been appreciated by all who have been privileged to know Michelle.

“Universities are deeply entwined in the lives of their community, and the history of Dalhousie has been made rich and varied by its people. Dal’s history is shaped by esteemed students, faculty, staff, and alumni – poets, prime ministers, and a Nobel laureate – and by groundbreaking discovery across two centuries of engagements with community.”

President’s Message, A 200^th Anniversary Portrait Dalhousie University.

Dr. Richard Florizone, Dalhousie’s 11^th President

Category: Dr. Rick Nason