Class of 2001

CEGE Reflections – Buddy Walzak

July 22, 2022 denisehinds Leave a Comment

“Over the years, I have promoted the value of the program to other public servants and have had the opportunity to regularly share my experiences with MPA students at the School of Public Administration. I am grateful for my learning experiences at Dalhousie University and fortunate to be able to have the opportunity to give back a little – which I will continue to do.”

– Albert ‘Buddy’ Walzak, Dalhousie University (BA ’85, BSW ’87, MPA(M) ’01) –

Buddy Walzak, Chief of Staff, Pivotal Growth Inc.
(formerly, Executive Director of the Nova Scotia Department of Intergovernmental Affairs)
Photo from LinkedIn

Read Buddy Walzak’s full article here

Albert ‘Buddy’ Walzak: The MPA(M) – my twenty-year reflection…has it been that long!

December 15, 2020 rbudd Leave a Comment

Albert ‘Buddy’ Walzak, Executive Director of the Nova Scotia Department of Intergovernmental Affairs

As a proud graduate of Dalhousie University (BA ’85, BSW ’87, MPA(M) ’01) I am delighted to have the opportunity to share my perspectives of the MPA(M) program and how the School of Public Administration has shaped and influenced my professional practice and development.

Today, more than ever, I have come to appreciate and value the opportunity I had in 1999. I’ve gained extensively from the MPA(M) program and pleased to see how it has evolved to its leading stature today.

In 1999, I was a member of the first cohort of the Province of Nova Scotia sponsored MPA(M) class. The newly created MPA(M) program was a joint initiative between the Province of Nova Scotia and Dalhousie University that recognized the province’s goal of promoting and investing in advanced learning for its senior ranks. Since graduating, my learning outcomes and observations of the program have held true and remain relevant some twenty years later.

There are three key aspects that I wish to highlight: high-quality learning; benefits of the teaching model; and achieving results.

A win-win-win learning experience: Dalhousie University is recognized globally as a leading research and teaching institution. As such, I had access to and was taught by some of Canada’s expert public administration researchers and professors whose expertise and knowledge I deeply valued. The program components and course work addressed actual public policy issues and had immediate application. The learning throughout the program was compounded. This was a win-win-win situation for Dalhousie, the province and the student. The knowledge and tools that I gained from the program twenty years ago help me in managing the public policy issues I experience in my current work setting. My journey of experiential learning was shaped by the School of Public Administration and its professors. The two-way feedback and interactions resulted in high quality learning outcomes for me which by extension benefited the Province of Nova Scotia and helped inform enhancements to the program.

Dynamic “classroom” environment: E-learning and distance learning was emerging in the late 90’s which meant that my learning was primarily face-to-face. Admittedly, this was my preference. For those who were fortunate to have had the privilege of receiving a chalkboard lecture from the highly respected and late Dr. Peter Aucoin – who could easily fill four boards twice over during a two-hour lecture – will never forget the experience which for me was a highlight and an honour. But more importantly, was the climate that was created at the School of Public Administration. The classroom interactions were dynamic. Fellow students, expert speakers and professors alike were often respectfully challenged which added to the learning experience. The networking and team building helped me develop invaluable contacts and lasting partnerships both with Dalhousie faculty and management and senior officials in government which I am grateful for. Today, MPA programs emphasize e-learning supported through classroom intensives and similar outcomes are being accomplished because of Dalhousie’s commitment to the modernization of distance learning models.

Transferring education into success:The post-graduate credentials and qualifications of the MPA(M) were/are a transferable skillset. I was a practicing social worker during my program and today I’m helping the province build meaningful and impactful government relations in my role of Executive Director with the Department of Intergovernmental Affairs. Undeniably, the MPA(M) was instrumental in my professional development and helped me progress to a senior position in government. But for me, success was measured by my ability to apply the elements of the program in a meaningful way knowing I had also gained the confidence that would help me address challenging issues as they occurred. A positive mindset and a commitment to continuous learning were also key factors in my development.

Over the years, I have promoted the value of the program to other public servants and have had the opportunity to regularly share my experiences with MPA students at the School of Public Administration. I am grateful for my learning experiences at Dalhousie University and fortunate to be able to have the opportunity to give back a little – which I will continue to do.

Albert ‘Buddy’ Walzak is the Executive Director of the Nova Scotia Department of Intergovernmental Affairs. He is responsible for the general administration and operations of the department. He helps lead the coordination and advancement of the province’s interests and works to maintain productive relationships with regional, national and international partners. Through these relationships, he helps advance the province’s economic, government and international objectives.

Albert ‘Buddy’ Walzak: The MPA(M) – my twenty-year reflection…has it been that long!

January 21, 2020 rbudd Leave a Comment

Albert ‘Buddy’ Walzak, Executive Director of the Nova Scotia Department of Intergovernmental Affairs

There are three key aspects that I wish to highlight: high-quality learning; benefits of the teaching model; and achieving results.

A win-win-win learning experience: Dalhousie University is recognized globally as a leading research and teaching institution. As such, I had access to and was taught by some of Canada’s expert public administration researchers and professors whose expertise and knowledge I deeply valued. The program components and course work addressed actual public policy issues and had immediate application. The learning throughout the program was compounded. This was a win-win-win situation for Dalhousie, the province and the student. The knowledge and tools that I gained from the program twenty years ago help me in managing the public policy issues I experience in my current work setting. My journey of experiential learning was shaped by the School of Public Administration and its professors. The two-way feedback and interactions resulted in high quality learning outcomes for me which by extension benefited the Province of Nova Scotia and helped inform enhancements to the program.

Dynamic “classroom” environment: E-learning and distance learning was emerging in the late 90’s which meant that my learning was primarily face-to-face. Admittedly, this was my preference. For those who were fortunate to have had the privilege of receiving a chalkboard lecture from the highly respected and late Dr. Peter Aucoin – who could easily fill four boards twice over during a two-hour lecture – will never forget the experience which for me was a highlight and an honour. But more importantly, was the climate that was created at the School of Public Administration. The classroom interactions were dynamic. Fellow students, expert speakers and professors alike were often respectfully challenged which added to the learning experience. The networking and team building helped me develop invaluable contacts and lasting partnerships both with Dalhousie faculty and management and senior officials in government which I am grateful for. Today, MPA programs emphasize e-learning supported through classroom intensives and similar outcomes are being accomplished because of Dalhousie’s commitment to the modernization of distance learning models.

Transferring education into success:The post-graduate credentials and qualifications of the MPA(M) were/are a transferable skillset. I was a practicing social worker during my program and today I’m helping the province build meaningful and impactful government relations in my role of Executive Director with the Department of Intergovernmental Affairs. Undeniably, the MPA(M) was instrumental in my professional development and helped me progress to a senior position in government. But for me, success was measured by my ability to apply the elements of the program in a meaningful way knowing I had also gained the confidence that would help me address challenging issues as they occurred. A positive mindset and a commitment to continuous learning were also key factors in my development.

Mary Parker Follett: Final Thoughts for the Year 2018

December 27, 2018 rbudd Leave a Comment

“More than one hundred years after the publication of her first book in 1896, Mary P. Follett (1868–1933) remains one of our preeminent thinkers about democracy and social organization. Without the benefit of modern research methods, Follett developed such original, penetrating analyses of leadership, power and authority, conflict, and group behavior that her ideas form the basis of much of our modern discourse about organizations and management.”

Tonn, P. J. C. (2003). Mary P. Follett: Creating Democracy, Transforming Management [Kindle iOS version Location 113].

The New State by Mary Parker Follett

The New State by Mary Parker Follett is not an easy read. The concepts presented within the pages of a book published 100 years ago, continues to inspire us to think deeply and consider individual responsibility within a group dynamic.

Mary Parker Follett’s greatest gift was her ability to listen intently to everyone, irrespective of their “position” in society – factory workers, shop girls, or presidents of large corporations. She believed that every voice counted – and it was not lip service. She was above all a determined pragmatist with a philosophy that we can organize our lives and institutions so that everyone can contribute. While we may consider this rather optimistic, I have seen glimpses of this possibility. We live in a world that thrives on complexity, but I believe that resilience comes when individuals participate in a greater, more inclusive, conversation.

As we prepare to welcome a New Year, the last word belongs to a woman who passionately believed in the reality of integrating the diversity of cultures for the greater good. Mary Parker Follett valued differences, maintaining that together we gain strength and renewal, as individuals, as groups, as a society.

To complete our series on Mary Parker Follett, I am joined by Annie Giraudou, MBS(FS)Class of 2007 and Yvonne Thevenot MBA(FS) Class of 2001, who have been following Dr. McLarney’s series on Mary Parker Follett.

Rebecca Budd
Editor & Blog Coordinator
CEGE Connection

Annie Giraudou:

I have enjoyed reading “The New State” by Mary Parker Follett. I find I must take time to reflect on the ideas brought forth. One phrase stands out for me “There is a need for competent leaders and a need for competent group members”. We are seeing more research and novels focusing on the need for “followers”; emphasis being that we cannot all be leaders and that someone must effectively do the work. This is directly related to the obligation as a member to take that position seriously and contribute to the success of the team; not just the leader, but the entire team. I am seeing similar views on the extrovert versus introvert position. Could there be something to more Eastern cultures who favour “introversion” and team member contribution? Unbelievably, this question of requiring both types to make an efficient team and society was put to paper 100 years ago by Mary Parker Follett! Maybe it is about time we looked at all types to create a more balanced society.

Yvonne Thevenot:

It is fascinating in business to see the emergence of “Agile” implementation framed as a new concept for organizing structures. Or in change management the idea of “listening posts” or “Ask Me Anything” sessions… This discussion and highlighting key aspects of the work from such a prominent thinker as Mary Parker Follett through the practical today’s language of Dr. McLarney truly demonstrates to me how long it takes for societal change to truly evolve. Thank you for sharing!

Mary Parker Follett 1868 – 1933

“The most successful leader of all is the one who sees another picture not yet actualized. He sees the things which are not yet there… Above all, he should make his co-workers see that it is not his purpose which is to be achieved, but a common purpose, born of the desires and the activities of the group.”

Mary Parker Follett

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.

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

October 9, 2018 rbudd Leave a Comment

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

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