Audio version

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

The Alumni Sponsorship Program leverages funds received from affinity partners to facilitate career building and networking initiatives.

PHOTO: SENECA COLLEGE

THE ALUMNI SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM

HR Connects brings industry leaders to campus

THE SENECA ALUMNI SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM supports one of the core functions of the Alumni Association: keeping graduates connected to the College. This program, sponsored by affinity partnerships with TD Insurance Meloche Monnex, MBNA and Manulife, is built on networking and reunions, professional and career development, giving back, and facilitating opportunities for graduates to mentor current students.

One initiative that embodies many of these priorities is “HR Connects,” an annual networking event that connects human resources (HR) alumni with more than 150 HR students from the College's diploma, degree and graduate certificate programs. Now in its twenty-fifth year, this event offers students insight and expertise from alumni in a formal, engaging setting.

“It was a great privilege to participate in roundtable discussions with aspiring HR professionals,” says alumnus and HR professional, Paul Cannis, who is also a member of the Seneca Alumni Council. “I've always felt very grateful for the learning experience Seneca provided me and am happy to share my knowledge so that others have a better chance to thrive.”

At this event, alumni also update students on industry trends and forecast some of the challenges they may face. Personal experiences are shared along with examples of how alumni found success. And by networking with these seasoned professionals, students practice the skill that will be fundamental in their careers.

“It is no secret that networking helps to build mutually beneficial relationships, which can be catalysts for success,” says Human Resources Management (HRM) student Claudine Hawthorne-Lindo. “As an international student, this type of opportunity is invaluable - not only for its business purposes but to establish sustainable relationships in Canada.”

Alfonsina Chang, HRM Program Coordinator, has championed HR Connects for the last 10 years and believes it to be a win-win for everyone involved.

“Employers seek new hires just as much as students seek opportunities,” says Alfonsina. “HR Connects has proven to directly lead to paid positions for some of our students.”

Alumni events such as this foster a sense of pride and community within the College, while also helping to build positive relationships and potential career opportunities. The Alumni Sponsorship Program supports more than 50 events each year, like HR Connects, engaging 500 alumni with close to 2,000 students.

To propose an initiative for the Alumni Sponsorship program, contact alumni@senecacollege.ca

10 RED 2015