Born and raised in Regina, SK, I attended the Paul J. Hill School of Business at the University of Regina for my first two years of university. I am thrilled to now study at Ivey as I work towards my CPA and Sustainability Certificate in the HBA program. I hope to focus on developing sustainable reporting standards after I complete my CPA, and to eventually work in a sustainability focused business in the future. You can usually find me on a volleyball court, exploring a new running trail, or knitting a new project.

What is your personal definition of sustainability?

My definition of sustainability for a business is that it leaves a society or community better off beyond providing a service. This means the benefits are felt not only in the present, but also in the future. I think that this can take place in many areas including environmentally and socially. While I find that most business decisions take place with only the short-term benefits in mind, sustainable businesses see the entire timeline and look beyond a quick buck. This approach to business is not rewarded by profit, but instead by longevity.

What role do you see sustainability playing in your professional career?

At the beginning of my career, I want to focus on sustainability within my area of expertise. My goal has always been to complete my CPA, but I am still exploring what I would like to do after that. Recently, I have developed an interest in being involved with an organization that develops sustainable reporting standards. I believe that we are entering a time where sustainability needs to be measured the same way that the financial health of an organization is measured. Measuring sustainability means that businesses can make a commitment to it that is relevant to internal and external stakeholders.

After I gain experience, I want to use my skills to work within an organization with the sole purpose of sustainability in their business. I am very inspired by organizations like United Way that provide sustainable practices to the communities they serve, and I would love to contribute to this. Though I am not completely certain what my role or the organization would be, I want to find something where I can have a positive impact and lead my community to a better place.

What sustainability projects have you been engaged in?

During my first two years at the University of Regina, I had the opportunity to volunteer at various organizations that focused mainly on sustainability through reducing poverty in the community. My favorite experience was with United Way’s Summer Success Program which aims to help students reach a Grade 3 reading level on time to increase the likelihood that they will graduate on time. This had a huge impact on me because I realized how vital United Way’s services were to the community, and how sustainability doesn’t always look like a paper plate instead of plastic.

Another passion of mine is coaching volleyball. While the sport itself may not be specifically related to sustainability, I believe that our coaching staff focused on creating leaders for the future. Responsibility, accountability, and teamwork are all key aspects that create positive impact in organizations regardless of the career our athletes choose after their volleyball careers end. Though this may not still have the same direct impact as other projects, I fully believe that coaching and giving amazing young women opportunities for empowerment has made the world a better place.