A Million Connection Points

A message from Larissa Chaikowsky, MBA ’04, Chair, Ivey Alumni Network

There are five generations of Ivey alumni around the globe – from recent graduates to those who finished 50+ years ago. Five generations, and more than a million potential connection points. As I step into the role of Chair, and after returning to Toronto after nearly a decade living and working in Chicago with BMO, I see an amazing opportunity to mix these different career paths and experiences together and learn and share with one another. 

Recently, I met a new alumni community volunteer, Nadia Ladak, HBA ’20, only five years out from her HBA. She has already launched her own company, appeared on Dragons’ Den, and is thriving. As we talked about alumni events focused on Board service, I wondered whether the conversation was relevant to someone so early in her journey. She didn’t hesitate: “I am a founder of a company and very interested in board service for startups; it’s totally applicable to me.” That moment opened my eyes. Imagine pairing Nadia with an alum 30 years into their career. What could they learn from each other? Those are the impactful connection points I want us to create.

We are starting from a position of strength thanks to past Chairs like Lisa Dymond, MBA ’06, and the dedication of countless alumni volunteers. The power of our alumni connections is a unique value proposition of an Ivey education. How can we encourage more frequent engagement with Ivey in ways that offer genuine value? I believe the answer lies in focusing our efforts, doing fewer things and doing them even better. And it begins with listening to you, our alumni.

This is just part of what lies ahead.

We’ve also embarked on an exciting new vision called Bold Ambition that Dean Julian Birkinshaw has set forth. I encourage all alumni to explore and contribute to this vision, which blends what has always made Ivey distinctive with a dynamic path forward. I’m excited to see how our network can help bring it to life.

In addition, Western’s All in campaign, of which Ivey is a part, invites us to take part in addressing some of today’s most urgent global challenges. It represents yet another opportunity for meaningful connection and collective impact.

Finally, I want to acknowledge the tremendous leadership of Lisa during her tenure as IAN Chair. Her steady guidance through the pandemic and her commitment to recognizing emerging alumni leaders and creating new alumni communities have left a lasting legacy for the School. 

I am excited to take on the role as Chair of the IAN Board, and I look forward to building on that foundation together.